Brollies and boots or sunshine and sea views?

by Maria Tilev United Kingdom Ideal Homes Portugal

Ever dreamt of retiring somewhere warm and sunny? Perhaps you’d like to own a holiday home in Spain or Portugal to sound quality time with friends and family?

Now you can! Begin the journey by visiting the free-to-attend Overseas Property Show at Birmingham’s National Motorcycle Museum on Sat 27^th and Sun 28^th January 2018, open 10am-6pm daily.

Whether you want a brand-new dream house or something more rustic, a rental investment or a permanent residence, the Overseas Property Show is the perfect place to look.

Our carefully selected, qualified property industry experts will take the guesswork and daunting amounts of research out of the equation and answer any questions you may have about purchasing abroad directly during individual face-to-face conversations.

You will have the opportunity to meet a wide range of experts individually during personalised consultations and find out all about mortgages, currency exchange, tax incentives, residency, legal requirements, the buying process, design and build and much, much more.

Buying a home abroad can seem intimidating, especially when you aren’t familiar with the physical and legal environment. That is why events like these are an invaluable help – there is so much knowledge and advice all under one roof!

“Our goal is to ensure visitors who come to the show have access to independent opinions, gain valuable information about their location of choice, understand their options, and are able to walk away feeling much more confident about their buying decisions than they did before.”

Chris White, Founder of The Overseas Property Show.

At the Overseas Property Show you’ll be able to browse stunning luxury properties in the prestigious Quinta do Lago on Portugal’s Algarve coast or perhaps you’ll find your ideal home on one of the wonderful islands of Isla Canela in Spain or Cape Verde? Who knows, you might even be able to snap up a fantastic bargain from the repossessions portfolio?!

Let 2018 be the year you make the dream come true.

Join us at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham 27th & 28th January 2018, 10am-6pm daily

Admission & parking free.

For e-tickets visit: www.theoverseaspropertyshow.com

Additional information: +351 289 513 434 or 0800 133 7644

Overseas Property Show announces Ireland tour dates

It’s that time of year when many people begin turning their dream of owning a property overseas into a reality. Now, the hugely successful Overseas Property Show is coming to Ireland in order to make that reality happen.

The free to attend show will take in two Dublin venues, Limerick and Cork during its tour of Ireland, sharing information, advice and opportunities for overseas property ownership with all those who are interested in attending.

Experts on foreign property ownership, including those who live and work overseas, will be available to share their experiences and provide detailed, factual information about owning a home abroad.

The Ireland shows will include:

Tuesday 23 May 2017 – RDS Dublin
Wednesday 24 May 2017 – Roganstown Hotel, The Aungier Suite, Sword, Dublin
Friday 26 May 2017 – Thomond Park Rugby Stadium, 1978 Suite, Limerick
Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 May 2017 – Metropole Hotel, Ballroom, MacCurtain Street, Cork

Chris White, Founding Director of real estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal, which has been exhibiting at the Overseas Property Show for several years, comments,

“The Overseas Property Show is an ideal way for potential overseas property owners to connect with industry experts and find out more about making their home ownership dreams come true. The show is refreshing in its approach – it provides realistic insights into owning overseas, rather than an airbrushed vision of life in the sun.

“Owning a home abroad comes with legal and taxation implications and the Overseas Property Show provides the perfect forum for such questions to be addressed. It also offers a wide range of properties in several countries, giving visitors plenty of ideas about the style of property that they might like to own and the locations that they are interested in exploring further.”

The 2017 Overseas Property Show will include properties from Portugal, Spain and Mexico, as all three areas are particular hotspots right now for those buying overseas. From stunning studios to luxury villas with sea views, the show caters to visitors looking for second homes, retirement properties and investment properties, with experts on hand to explain the realities of each kind of purchase.

There is also a lifestyle element to the show, with expats there to talk about everything from language learning to the cost of groceries. It’s a whole-hearted approach that has proven extremely successful for previous Overseas Property Show tours.

Those looking for advice, guidance and inspiration when it comes to overseas home ownership are invited to obtain their free tickets and full details from www.theoverseaspropertyshow.com.

For further details, visit www.theoverseaspropertyshow.com, call (0800) 133 7644 / +351 289 513 434 or email info@theoverseaspropertyshow.com.

Indulge in a spa property for total body, mind and financial wellbeing

by Charly Spain United Kingdom Ideal Homes Portugal, Properties of the World, Taylor Wimpey Espana

Global spa services market to reach $154.6 billion by 2022 (Allied Market Research)
Increasingly hectic lifestyles, rising wellness tourism, demand from teenagers and improving standards of living driving spa services market (Allied Market Research)
“Holiday homes with spa facilities are a luxury that owners are thoroughly enjoying and paying a premium to purchase.” (Taylor Wimpey España)

According to the most recent report published by Allied Market Research, the global spa services market is forecast to reach an incredible $154.6 billion by 2022.

Far from being a rare indulgence for the affluent, wellbeing has increasingly become a part of everyday life for many around the world with a marked rise in demand for medical spa treatments a key driver of this shift.

The report explains that other factors driving the spa services market include increasingly hectic modern day lifestyles, rising wellness tourism, demand from teenagers and improving standards of living. An increase in the population of working women and the rising popularity of spas amongst male customers also add to the demand.

With all these factors in mind, it seems clear that spa and wellbeing services will become an even bigger industry in the near future – and a great selling point for properties.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director at Spanish developer Taylor Wimpey España, has observed the popularity of holiday homes with spa facilities rising. He comments,

“From speaking with potential buyers seeking their ideal holiday home, it’s becoming increasingly common that developments with spa facilities sway their decision to buy. With 21^st century living becoming gradually more stressful, it seems that more and more people are opting to spend their free time in the most relaxing and tranquil environment possible.

“Holiday homes with spa facilities are a luxury that owners are thoroughly enjoying and paying a premium to purchase.”

A perfect example of exclusive spa facilities for second homeowners is Taylor Wimpey España’s Horizon Golf, on La Cala Resort in Spain. The luxury on-site spa is full of natural light, totally immersed in a breathtaking landscape surrounded by plenty of manicured green gardens, trees and a variety of indigenous plants. With a range of massages, detox, ageing, hand and foot treatments, herbal steam bath, igloo and Finnish sauna day packages available from €35, this is the location to relax and rewind.

Prices for properties at Horizon Golf start from €267,000+VAT for an apartment and €420,000+VAT for a townhouse. Properties within this private gated development offer stunning panoramic views over the golf course and La Cala de Mijas. Residents can reach the beautiful beaches of the Costa del Sol in just 10 minutes, with Malaga airport only a 30 minute drive away.

In the neighbouring Iberian country of Portugal, you can go one better by owning your very own commercial property with spa, health club and restaurant included. With a one-bedroom apartment included for the owner’s residence, you can then personally offer amazing spa services and use of the facilities to nearby holidaymakers!

Ideal Homes Portugal’s amazing commercial opportunity in Algoz, Silves can be found on an idyllic and tranquil residential urbanization of detached villas, semi-detached villas and townhouses. The majority of residents are members of the health and sports club, as they have no communal swimming pool or areas as part of their development. It is an amazing opportunity for those wishing to kick start a spa and health-club business with the added bonus of being in sunny Portugal.

From only €499,000, the vast amount of land on offer covers some 2,560 square metres with spa and massage facilities, Turkish steam room, changing rooms and showers, fully equipped gymnasium, large swimming pool and tennis courts.

The site also hosts a charming restaurant and bar, fully licensed and equipped for 100 guests with both an indoor and outdoor children’s play area. With facilities all positioned in a peaceful setting with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, it is only a 15-minute walk from local beaches such as Gale, Evaristo, Salgados and Sao Rafael.

If you are looking for a holiday property closer to home, Properties of the World showcase the gorgeous spa facilities at the Caer Rhun Hall resort in North Wales. There will be a spacious and relaxing Canovium Spa, named after the Roman fort upon which it is built. The spa will house six single treatment rooms and one couples room, where guests can experience tandem therapy. The state-of-the-art spa will also boast an extensive heat experience including aromatherapy room, salt inhalation chamber, sauna, monsoon shower and foot spas.

Nestling in the heart of the Conwy Valley, Caer Rhun Hall is a Victorian country retreat of timeless elegance that is being transformed into a luxurious 5-star hotel and spa. The Grade II listed house, surrounded by 20 acres of grounds, will provide the perfect venue for an indulgent weekend escape. With prices starting from £75,000 for an annex room, the incredible buy-to-let opportunity is the perfect relaxing and traditional retreat.

With the growing need for stress-relief in the modern day lifestyle, properties with a spas onsite or close-by are on trend and predicted to be the next ‘must-have’ amongst holiday homes.
For more information, please contact:

Taylor Wimpey España: 08000 121 020, +34 971 706 972 or http://taylorwimpeyspain.com

Ideal Homes Portugal: 0800 133 7644, +351 289 513 434 or www.idealhomesportugal.com

Properties of the World: +44 20 7624 5555 or www.propertiesoftheworld.co.uk

Take your September sun to new heights with these terrific terraces

by Eleanor Portugal Spain United Kingdom Collegiate AC, Ideal Homes Portugal, Kyero, Properties of the World, Property Frontiers, Taylor Wimpey Espana

Make the most of this late September sun with a glass of bubbly and stunning views from these terrific terraces.

Herculaneum Quay, Liverpool

Residents will never want to leave these stunning waterfront apartments. Boasting marvelous views over the River Mersey, all apartments feature floor to ceiling glass with outdoor terraces and balconies to relax and take in the exquisite skyline.

Prices start at £107,130

For more information, please visit http://propertiesoftheworld.co.uk/ or call +44 20 7624 5555

Water Lane Apartments, Bristol

Whether you’re relaxing with a book, having a drink with some friends or working on an assignment, Water Lane’s pretty garden terrace allows university students to make the most of the Bristol sunshine. Other wonderful facilities include a private gym, on-site cinema, dinner party room and a club lounge for residents.

Prices start from £160 per week

For more information, visit www.collegiate-ac.com or contact Collegiate AC on +44 1235 250 140

Santa Ponsa Villa, Mallorca

With sunshine all year round and idyllic sea views, this wonderful terrace plays the perfect host for any occasion. Situated in the stunning Santa Ponsa area of Mallorca, the villa boasts 4 large en-suite bedrooms, a living and dining area, fully equipped kitchen, private gardens and a pool.

Prices start at €1,395,000

For further details, visit www.kyero.com

Horizon Golf, Mijas, Costa del Sol

These beautiful homes afford spacious terraces perfect for al fresco dining where residents can enjoy breathtaking views of the prestigious Campo Asia golf course. All properties benefit from communal gardens and a swimming pool where you can enjoy bright Costa del Sol days and warm Mediterranean evenings.

Prices start at €267,000+VAT

For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit http://taylorwimpeyspain.com

The Divine Collection, Digbeth, Birmingham

Soak up the last of the summer sun on The Divine Collection’s private roof garden. The grassy garden is perfect for entertaining friends or taking in a breath of fresh air. Comprised of a selection of 30 hand-picked apartments, The Divine Collection offers sophisticated, elegant homes with a spacious design and luxurious fit out.

Prices start at £159,500

For more information, contact Property Frontiers by visiting http://www.propertyfrontiers.com/ or calling the team on +44 1865 202 700.

Luxury ocean view property, Salgados, Algarve

Prepare for stunning ocean views from this exquisite villa in the popular Salgados. The living areas of this luxurious villa lead out onto the terraces and gardens through floor to ceiling glass doors. On the second floor is a large south facing terrace offering wonderful views of the Atlantic Ocean and pretty coastline for miles.

Prices start at €2,250,000

For more information, contact Ideal Homes Portugal on 0800 133 7644 or visit http://www.idealhomesportugal.com

Buy a home built by a dragon at the Overseas Property Show in London this weekend!

by Charly Portugal Ideal Homes Portugal

This weekend, the popular Overseas Property Show will be presenting Londoners with a rare opportunity – to buy a home built by a dragon!

The Novotel London West Hotel & Convention Centre will host the free to attend Overseas Property Show, which runs on Saturday 10^th to Monday 12^th September 2016, from 10 am to 6 pm daily. Ideal Homes Portugal, the exhibitor at the show, is presenting an exclusive collection of properties that have been redeveloped by former Dragons’ Den star Duncan Bannatyne.

Bannatyne fell for Portugal back in 2014, when he purchased a gorgeous, secluded villa through Ideal Homes Portugal. Since then he has relocated to make Portugal his main home and is allowing his entrepreneurial streak to flourish in the Iberian sunshine. Although he planned to retire when making the move, Bannatyne has been feeling the pull of new business ventures while sitting by his swimming pool with fiancee Nigora Whitehorn. Now, the determined entrepreneur is building a new career in the property industry.

Working with the vibrant and expanding real estate company Ideal Homes Portugal Bannatyne has sourced five houses that had been partly developed when the Portuguese recession struck. Work on the properties was abandoned due to the financial crisis, but Bannatyne is now nurturing them back to life, with a view to turning them into dream holiday homes for buyers to use either for themselves or as a rental investment.

The busy, upscale town of Almancil is the location of Bannatyne’s new properties. Almancil is one of the most sought after destinations in the Algarve and forms part of the region’s ‘golden triangle,’ along with the prestigious golf resorts of Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago. Bannatyne comments,

“The recession hit Portugal pretty badly. However, all of us living here can see a marked upturn in the prosperity of the country. In my opinion property prices in the Algarve are selling below their true value and will rise quickly over the next few years.

“The recovery in the property market in southern Spain has been rapid and sustained. The effect is spreading to Portugal and the Algarve is at the beginning of a remarkable upturn. I have invested at a time when these properties are still within reach of those with an appetite for a place in the sun and an understanding of the need to buy at the right price and the right time.”

Several of the properties, which each feature two sun terraces, three en-suite bedrooms, private garden and access to a generously sized pool, have already attracted interest from potential buyers. Londoners looking to pick one up at the Overseas Property Show this weekend should be ready to move fast. Chris White, Founding Director of Ideal Homes Portugal, which is developing the properties in partnership with Duncan Bannatyne, comments,

“The Overseas Property Show is always a great place to connect would-be buyers with their dream Portuguese property, whether it’s a home built by a dragon or a unique local business with a rich history, like the fabulous Café des Ingles in Silves. Visitors to the show also get to grill the local experts who attend on everything from the state of the Portuguese property market to what the Algarve expat lifestyle really entails.”

A handful of free tickets for the Overseas Property Show in London this weekend are still available. See www.theoverseaspropertyshow.com for details and to get your free tickets.

In addition, one lucky ticket holder, attending the show, will win a holiday for two in the Algarve.

For further details visit www.theoverseaspropertyshow.com, call (0800) 133 7644 / +351 289 513 434 or email info@theoverseaspropertyshow.com.

Homes for music lovers

by Eleanor World Ideal Homes International, Ideal Homes Portugal, Kyero, Property Frontiers

Music is known for its power to uplift, calm, excite and sadden. It has such a powerful effect that it is used therapeutically for everything from helping to control emotions to lowering blood pressure through stress reduction programs.

Fans of particular artists will travel for hours to hear their favourite music live, with some even crossing international borders in order to hear a specific band. There are also those whose connection to music is so strong that it is a core component of their home life. As such, we’ve rounded up some homes with musical connections that will be perfect for music lovers in the UK and overseas!

Beats in Barcelona

Music lovers will be delighted by this Barcelona rental apartment, available through Spanish property portal Kyero.com for €2,500 pcm. With exposed brickwork and designer furnishings, the home offers the ultimate in city chic, complemented by a generously sized home studio complete with piano, keyboard, drum kit and mics. Its location in the trendy Poble-Sec neighbourhood means it is also perfectly located for those wishing to enjoy Barcelona’s jazz scene and nightlife.

Musical Mijas

Elsewhere in Spain, those looking to buy rather than rent will be drawn to this luxurious beachfront villa in Mijas Costa, available through Ideal Homes International. Stunning landscaped gardens, 180° ocean views, a sizeable pool and direct beach access make this one of the most exclusive villas on the Costa del Sol. The décor inside is almost palatial, which is fitting as the villa has been used by royalty, presidents, billionaires and sheiks. Music lovers will be delighted to know that the villa was the location of One Direction’s debut performance in the X factor “judges’ houses” screening in 2010. Such a music connection doesn’t come cheap though – Villa Moana is on the market for an eye-watering €40 million.

Praising in Portugal

Over in Portugal, music fans can pick up their very own superstar’s villa, with Christian crooner Cliff Richard’s home and winery on the market for €9.5 million at Ideal Homes Portugal. The estate includes a four bedroom farmhouse, three bedroom cottage, double office with studio, modern five bedroom villa, onsite shop and wine tasting bar. The property comes complete with the winery’s equipment, materials, shares and stock. It also offers stunning views from its position at the top of Quinta do Miradouro, three swimming pools, tennis court, landscaped gardens and a roof terrace with tower viewing point. This is unquestionably one of the more unique wineries in the Algarve and the only one to enjoy such an impressive musical connection.

Let it be Liverpool

Back in the UK, musical connections don’t get much better than owning a piece of Beatles history in Liverpool. That’s precisely what is being offered by Property Frontiers at Liverpool’s Parker Street Residences. The buy-to-let apartments are located in the former Reece’s Ballroom, where John Lennon and first wife Cynthia held their wedding reception. Available from £69,950 for cash buyers, the city centre apartments offer yields of 8% NET with the option of assurance for five years.

So whether you’re an investor looking for healthy yields, a buyer after a dream second home or simply looking to spend a few months based in Barcelona, you can satisfy your musical side when picking up your property.

For more information, please contact:

Kyero.com: www.kyero.com

Ideal Homes International: 0800 133 7644, +351 289 513 434 or www.idealhomesinternational.co.uk

Ideal Homes Portugal: 0800 133 7644, +351 289 513 434 or www.idealhomesportugal.com

Property Frontiers: +44 1865 202 700 or www.propertyfrontiers.com

What has Brexit done to financing your dream property in Portugal?

by Sophie Evans Portugal Ideal Homes Portugal

House price growth accelerating and rents rising (RICS/Ci)
50/50 split between cash buyers and borrowers (Ideal Homes Portugal)
Algarve has 1.5 million summer residents, but just 451k permanent (Statistics Portugal)

According to the latest RICS/Ci Portuguese Housing Market Survey, agents in Portugal are reporting accelerating house price growth and higher rents. Whether you’re buying a holiday home for personal use with a view to making capital gains over the course or your ownership, or a rental apartment to serve as an income-generating investment, market forces indicate that now is the time to spring into action. But has Brexit thrown a spanner in the works for those looking to obtain a Portuguese mortgage to finance their property?

Chris White, Founding Director of boutique estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal, thinks not. He comments,

“The UK’s vote to leave the EU hasn’t made it harder for Brits to get mortgages in Portugal. The banks here are still financing and the mortgage process has thus far been unaffected by the whole Brexit development. In fact, as the market here has picked up, the banks have become more lenient when it comes to their lending criteria, so if anything it’s becoming easier for UK citizens to obtain Portuguese mortgages.”

Ideal Homes Portugal’s own mortgage offering is certainly striking a chord with buyers. The company has reported that around 50% of their clients currently are buying with mortgages, while the other 50% are making cash purchases. Many of those opting for loans to finance their purchases are investors looking to pick up one or more properties in the tourist mecca of the Algarve.

The Algarve has been a popular international tourist spot since Faro Airport opened in 1965. Since then, the airport has expanded along with the region’s popularity, with a record 6.4 million passengers passing through it in 2015. That’s compared to a resident population of just 451,006, according to Statistics Portugal. Add to those figures the 3 million or so domestic holidaymakers who head south to the Algarve and it’s easy to see why the region has such a need for rental accommodation. In fact, the Algarve’s population trebles over the summer months, to around 1.5 million people.

With low rates and 90% loan to value available through Ideal Homes Portugal, borrowing to fund the purchase of an investment property in Portugal is a simple and affordable process. Some of the most stunning new apartments that have piqued buyers’ interest are those at Lagos Marina. Lagos is one of the most visited cities in the region and home to one of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches, Praia Dona Ana, where boatmen putter slowly around the cliffs, showing off the caves, rock formations and azure waters to family groups, while locals dive for squid and other seafood delights. There’s also the enormous expanse of Meia Praia, with its surfers, windsurfers and trendy young things topping up their tans.

The eastern end of the Algarve is also becoming more popular with visitors and hence with property investors. The pretty fishing village of Cabanas de Tavira is packed with tourists over the summer months, along with a growing crowd of shoulder season visitors who aren’t restricted to school holiday times. Both short-term and long-term rental apartments are increasingly sought after. A two bedroom home in a development just a couple of minutes’ walk from the picturesque waterfront with its winding boardwalk is available from €139,000. With a gym, table tennis table and pool on-site, the development is perfect for family holidays, making it a popular choice with both investors and those buying a second home purely for personal use.

“It’s a win-win situation at the moment,” concludes Ideal Homes Portugal’s Chris White. “The combination of 90% mortgages and low rates means that buyer’s don’t need a large deposit and the monthly repayments are really affordable. We’re finding a lot of people are looking to Portugal in order to obtain an income from their holiday home as well as to use it for themselves.”

For further details call Ideal Homes Portugal on 0800 133 7644 or +351 289 513 434, email enquiries@idealhomesportugal.com or visit www.idealhomesportugal.com.

London baby! The Overseas Property Show comes to the capital this September

by Sophie Evans United Kingdom Ideal Homes Portugal, Overseas Property Show

It’s just been announced that the hugely popular Overseas Property Show will be arriving in London this September!

The Novotel London West Hotel & Convention Centre will host the free to attend event on Saturday 10^th, Sunday 11^th and Monday 12^th September 2016, from 10 am until 6 pm.

The Overseas Property Show has a strong reputation for connecting those who attend with the reality of owning a home overseas. The show’s focus is not on a romanticised ideal of second home ownership, but on the practical steps and considerations involved in purchasing and maintaining a property abroad.

Chris White, Founding Director of boutique real estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal, which is a regular exhibitor at the Overseas Property Show, comments,

“The Overseas Property Show is about bringing property experts with hands-on experience to people around the UK who are considering buying a home overseas. We’re on hand to talk through living abroad, so whether attendees have questions about how much Portuguese they’ll need to speak to live in the Algarve or the price of eggs in Spain, we can give them the information they need.

“Of course, our experts are also on hand to answer the big questions, like how the purchase process works, where to find a good lawyer, how to obtain a fiscal number and so forth. The beauty of the Overseas Property Show is that it offers all of that information in one place.”

The show is ideal for those looking to buy a holiday home overseas, such as this beautiful Algarve villa with pool and panoramic views, as well as those planning a more permanent move. Property investors can also find what they are looking for at the multi-faceted event.

The 2016 Overseas Property Show will focus largely on properties from Portugal, Spain and Florida, with a handful of opportunities in countries like Italy and Cyprus thrown in for good measure. The nationwide tour follows the success of the 10 events held in 2015, which provided thousands of visitors with the opportunity to begin turning their dreams of second home ownership into reality.

The 2016 tour will build on the previous year’s success, adding new venues like the Novotel London West Hotel & Convention Centre in order to reach out to even more would-be holiday home owners across the UK. At the same time it will remain true to its routes, offering free attendance and plenty of experts on hand to provide advice and guidance.

Whether it’s a second home, a main residence or an investment that you’re after, the Overseas Property Show is the place to be! Tickets are FREE and full details can be found at http://www.theoverseaspropertyshow.com/.

For further details visit http://www.theoverseaspropertyshow.com/, call (0800) 133 7644 / +351 289 513 434 or email info@theoverseaspropertyshow.com.

35 days after the Brexit vote, UK bricks & mortar are far from crumbling

by Charly United Kingdom Ideal Homes Portugal, Prime Centrum, Property Frontiers

UK house price growth remains steady at 10.2% (Hometrack)
Market fundamentals support strong Brexit response (Property Frontiers)
Look to second tier cities for the best investments (Prime Centrum)
Innovate when it comes to selling homes overseas (Ideal Homes Portugal)

35 days on from the UK’s vote to leave the European Union and the property market doomsayers seem to have gone awfully quiet. The predicted cataclysmic crash seems to have translated to a mild slowdown of the market, with the June 2016 Hometrack report finding that year-on-year growth has held fast at a rate of 10.2% nationally. The report suggests that prices will moderate during Q2 2016, in part due to the Brexit vote but also due to house prices in the south of England having reached near-record affordability highs.

Ray Withers, CEO of Property Frontiers, which specialises in buy-to-let opportunities such as Parker Street Residences in Liverpool, comments,

“We’re a long way from the housing market disaster that many predicted would result from the UK voting to leave the EU, though of course it is still early days. What is encouraging is that despite the Brexit vote, the UK’s market fundamentals have not changed: we didn’t have enough houses before the vote and we don’t have enough houses after it. The shortage in stock should continue to keep the market fairly well balanced during the Brexit negotiations, although I wouldn’t be surprised to see prices in London undergoing some adjustment as a result.”

The Hometrack report agrees, giving the view that, “London will bear the brunt of any slowdown.”

Stuart Johnson, Business Development Manager at Prime Centrum, concurs, observing,

“It’s time to look to the UK’s second tier cities and leave London to weather the aftermath of the referendum outcome, particularly when it comes to property investment. Cities like Leeds and Liverpool are the places to focus on right now.”

Both of these cities benefit from (comparatively) affordable house prices and yields that are above average, according to Hometrack’s June data, and this is reflected in the real estate investment opportunities available in them. Parliament Residence in Liverpool, for example, is available for just £109,900, including a 22% discount for early investors.

Nor is it just the UK property market that still offers excellent opportunities. Chris White, Founding Director of boutique estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal, has found that the post-Brexit environment has brought about new ways to connect those buying and selling homes in Portugal.

His company, which sells everything from island properties with incredible views to countryside mansions, has launched an initiative that allows buyers and sellers of properties in Portugal to complete the transaction entirely in pounds. Both parties save money on currency exchange services and Brexit’s impact on sterling is taken out of the equation.

There’s still a lengthy journey ahead in terms of the process of the UK disengaging from the EU, but one month in, the property market – both at home and overseas – seems to be handling Brexit far better than many expected.

For more information, please contact:

Property Frontiers: +44 1865 202 700 or www.propertyfrontiers.com.

Prime Centrum: 020 7183 6332 or www.primecentrum.com.

Ideal Homes Portugal: 0800 133 7644, +351 289 513 434 or www.idealhomesportugal.com

Beat the exchange rate and buy that dream holiday home – by paying in pounds!

by Charly Portugal Ideal Homes Portugal

Sterling dropped to a post-Brexit low of under $1.31 on 5 July 2016
Purchasing in pounds avoids holiday home buyers suffering Brexit’s financial impact
Three bed townhouse with private pool costs just £239k in Albufeira (Ideal Homes Portugal)

The political whirlwind stirred up by the UK’s historic vote to leave the EU on 23 June 2016 will have far-reaching consequences. The pound has proven particularly sensitive to the news, falling below $1.31 in early July, a low it hasn’t seen for more than 30 years.

Those holidaying overseas this summer have found that their break is noticeably more expensive than it would have been pre-referendum, but the same doesn’t have to be true for those buying property abroad.

Chris White, Founding Director of boutique estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal, explains,

“We’re working with our clients to offer them a way to avoid being stung when it comes to the exchange rate over the coming months. Many of our vendors – over 200 of them, in fact – want to sell their homes in Portugal and then access the proceeds of the sale in the UK. At the same time, we have buyers in the UK whose sterling is suddenly worth less if they convert it to euros.

“As such, we’re offering a win-win to both parties: they can buy and sell entirely in pounds. This means that the buyer doesn’t lose out as a result of the pounds fall in value and the seller gets to have their money in the UK, where they want it. Both vendor and buyer save money by not having to pay for currency exchange services.”

The service is already proving popular with clients at both ends of the transaction.

Portugal offers one of the most family-friendly holiday destinations in Europe, along with abundant sunshine and a short flight time. Properties there provide excellent value for money, particularly for those still able to buy in pounds through Ideal Homes Portugal.

A smart, three bedroom, three bathroom townhouse with private pool and built in barbecue in the popular town of Albufeira, for example, costs just €285,000 (around £239,000 at the time of writing).

Many of those who buy holiday homes in Portugal do so with rental income in mind, as well as personal usage. Tax on rental income in Portugal is just 3.75%, regardless of where the property owner lives. Add to that the fact that the Algarve’s population increases between three- and four-fold over the summer season and the potential for excellent returns is clear.

Using rental income to offset mortgage costs is a popular choice, according to the Ideal Homes Portugal team. Ever keen to support those who buy from them, Ideal Homes Portugal is also offering free property management for the first year to anyone who buys through them at the moment.