Are kitchens and bathrooms a second home’s best selling points?
- Taylor Wimpey España property buyers up c.28%
- Kitchens and bathrooms ‘give a home its soul’
- Light and quality are most important features
The stunning apartments of Cala Magrana III on the Spanish island of Mallorca bask in the afternoon heat haze. The noise of the gently lapping waves can just be heard as owners enjoy the magnificent view of the sea sparkling in the bright sunlight, while they sip cooling drinks on their generously proportioned terraces. In the grounds, children splash happily in the large communal pool.
The importance of kitchens and bathrooms is probably the last thing on their minds, yet Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España, which built the development, believes that it is those very rooms that led to many of these owners buying their second homes in the first place. He explains,
“Sea views and terraces provide the initial wow factor, but it is the kitchen and bathroom that enable buyers to picture themselves actually spending time in the property – they give a home its soul. It’s why we place such emphasis on these rooms in every development that we design.”
Light and quality are the two features that contribute to the perfect kitchen, according to Marc.
“We always ensure that kitchens have at least one large exterior window, so that they are full of light. Kitchens are true family spaces and we want people to be able to image themselves spending time in them, from Mum or Dad preparing a feast for the whole family to teenagers grabbing snacks from the fridge and little ones pestering for treats.”
High quality appliances and materials are also essential. An attractive appearance backed by practical considerations is ideal, believes Taylor Wimpey España. Plentiful cupboard and drawer space, alongside high spec fixtures and fittings, will ensure that owners have the tools they need to enjoy their kitchens fully.
Apartment layout is also important when it comes to kitchens, with open plan kitchens flowing into indoor and outdoor living areas in order that family and friends can share time together comfortably, even while preparing meals.
For bathrooms, the same rigorous standards are applied to the quality of fixtures and fittings. As Marc Pritchard observes,
“Little details can make a real difference. A modern mixer tap, an easy-to-clean shower screen, carefully positioned plug sockets… they’re not the most exciting details but every element contributes to making the perfect bathroom.”
Lighting is important in bathrooms, as well. Materials are chosen based on how they will reflect or absorb light and contribute to the overall luminosity of the room. It’s a delicate balance – a bathroom that is too bright can feel clinical and impersonal, yet one that is too dim offers a poor environment for completing tasks like shaving or putting on makeup.
“There’s so much more to kitchens and bathrooms than meets the eye!” concludes Marc. “A huge amount of thought goes into their design and though they might not initially come across as the property’s most exciting features I really do believe that they can be the rooms that turn prospective buyers into happy owners.”
The figures certainly seem to back the theory. Cumulative data to July 2015 shows that Taylor Wimpey España buyer numbers have increased by c.28%. Meanwhile just-released data for July shows that Brits are leading the charge, accounting for 20% of purchases, while German buyers account for 15% and Scandinavians for 14%.
The two last key ready properties at Cala Magrana III are available from €220,000.
For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.