Property News in Spain

Property Management Spain

Sun, 30 Sep 2007 11:35:27 +0200

Property for sale in Pruna Spain

Sat, 21 Oct 2006 13:29:21 +0200

Experience the authentic feel of typical rural Spanish pueblo in Pruna. There are numerous bars and several restaurants where you can relax with nice glass of wine plus there are shops in which to browse, and In spite of being in the country, Malaga, Seville and Jerez airports, plus the beaches of the Costa Del Sol, are only one hour 20 minute drive away. The Costa De La Luz, as yet unspoilt, around the Cadiz area, is a similar distance. Ronda with its fascinating shops and spectacular gorge, Zahara, a listed Pueblo Blanco, in the heart of National Park, offering magnificent walking, bird watching and fishing opportunities in the turquoise lake, plus numerous other quaint and picturesque villages with mountainous scenery to discover and explore are within an hours drive away. Slightly further a field but accessible for a day trip are places such as Granada, Cordoba and Gibraltar for a complete contrast of Spanish life Pruna actually comes under the province of Seville. It is a short drive - just 5km from Olvera The impression I get of Pruna is that it is a more of a working town than some of the other villages. Being of a population of just around 3000 people it is a quieter more low-key place. It does however have adequate amenities such as shops, restaurants, school etc. There are lots more properties coming on the market in Pruna and prices are often cheaper in Pruna than the nearby white villages although lately prices are rising and work out only marginally cheaper than Olvera. Country house with a good amount of land are again cheaper round here and the surrounding countryside is very beautiful. Country houses are becoming harder to find. The houses in Pruna ooze potential and so many original rustic features. The price tags means you can spend a good amount of money and do exactly what you want.

Five-Star Luxury in Marbella

Sun, 8 Oct 2006 17:53:56 +0200

Playing golf in your room or using a private elevator are luxuries few of us can afford. Only the rich can enjoy a night in a hotel costing 3,750 euros a day. JUST over a year ago, the King and Queen of Sweden visited Marbella for a party organised by their friend Gunilla von Bismarck. They have no embassy on the Costa del Sol to stay in, of course, so they opted for the next best thing: one of the many "grand luxury" five-star hotels in the Marbella area. Their choice was a private villa in the Marbella Club, the first luxury hotel in the municipality, each with its own private swimming pool, five bedrooms and 300 square metres of private living space set in semi-tropical gardens. This is hotel accommodation fit for a king. It does not come cheap. At 3,750 euros a night, one needs to have a royal salary to stay there. Or to be Pierce Brosnan or Lenny Kravitz, who like to stay in this type of hotel while on the Costa del Sol because it is also a safe refuge from the paparazzi photographers. Marbella continues to be synonymous with luxury in Spain, and its outward expression is in its luxury hotels. Cost is the key element here: one can stay in the new five-star hotel designed by famous architect Frank Gehry for the Marqués de Riscal wine company in Alavés, considered one of the most exclusive in the country, for three times less than in some hotels in the Marbella area. If one is not entirely happy with the exquisite service in the Marbella Club, one can head down the Golden Mile to the Gran Melía Don Pepe Hotel, where a night will cost 2,800 euros in one of the presidential suites. Here one can relax in presidential luxury looking out over the Mediterranean, or soak in the jacuzzi, have a drink in the private bar followed by a siesta in the Balinese bed on the private terrace or play a round of mini-golf without leaving the suite. Or one might have decided to stop along the way and drop into the Puente Romano Hotel instead, to take a private elevator up to the Imperial Suite. This overlooks the beach, and has a hall, sitting rooms, bedroom and private terrace. The decoration is Mediterranean in style, with high ceilings reminiscent of classic Greece, and touches of chic that make the price of the room a bargain at only 2,600 euros a night. Among the many rich and famous personalities to have stayed here are Italian film actress Gina Lollobrigida, French actor Alain Delon, Elizabeth Taylor and singer Tom Jones. There are less expensive places to stay in Marbella, without skimping too much on luxury, and one of them is the Los Monteros Hotel. Here one can stay in the Ambassador Suite, for example, which measures 89 square metres and costs only 1,010 euros a night, or one could go down-market and opt for the Spa Suite at 750 euros for the night. This has pressure showers, a hydro-massage bath and a Turkish bath, all very necessary to relieve the stress of not being able to afford anything better.

Cheap property in Spain

Sun, 8 Oct 2006 17:51:41 +0200

It might not surprise you to know that Barcelona is the most expensive place to buy property in Spain, but what about the cheapest? The place to snap up a bargain is in the little-known Andalucian province of Jaen. In the "Big Picture" monthly report carried out by the leading Spanish property portal - Kyero.com - the average price of a property for sale in Jaen was almost seven times cheaper than Barcelona. Over 49,000 properties were sampled and the national average property price came out at €240,000 (£162,967). Barcelona, along with Ibiza and Mallorca, were the only places to top the half a million euro mark, compared to a mere €77,000 (£52,298) for Jaen, 68% below the national average. So what makes Jaen so cheap? Is it a culture-free dust bowl? Does the province have unseasonably bad weather? Is it a concrete enclaved inhospitable, modern town? The answers are all "no". The city of Jaen, situated 92km (57 miles) north of Granada, has been inhabited since 600,000 BC (by the Flintstone-esque "Pebble" Culture!). It boasts a Moorish castle, 11th century Arab baths and a 16th century cathedral and palace amongst its points of interest, and the thriving university adds a youthful element to this historically important area. The weather, as with the rest of Andalucia, is mild and has contributed to the economic success of Jaen's major asset - olives. Jaen is the world's leading producer of olives and olive oil, producing about 10% of the world's olive oil. The crop occupies 77% of the land and the oil is manufactured by around 55 oil mills. The region also boasts numerous national parks and nature reserves, including the Sierras de Cazorla nature park, arguably one of the most beautiful nature parks in Andalucia. Since the beginning of 2006 Jaen has found itself in demand from property purchasers seeking a slice of "real Spain" and even featured on the popular TV programme, A Place in the Sun in May. The town of Alcala la Real, just 25 minutes drive from Granada, is the province's main property hotspot. With a population of just over 21,000, there are plenty of amenities, such as schools, restaurants, bars, doctors and swimming pools as well as striking scenery and a friendly local community. Some properties in the region have experienced price appreciation of up to 60 per cent in recent months and demand has recently intensified. The region of Andalucia itself attracts Spain's largest number of tourists, receiving 14 per cent of the country's 50 million foreign visitors every year. The rural tourism market is up and coming and Jaen accounts for 7 per cent of Andalucia's tourists, with 490,000 visitors every year. This has led to an increasing demand for rental accommodation not only from foreign holiday makers but also Spanish nationals, especially from Madrid, seeking a rural holiday. So what's wrong with the place that makes it so inexpensive to buy? Well because it's inland, there are no beaches. Swimming pools - yes, sand and wet wavy stuff - no. It also doesn't have an international airport. However, Granada is only 90 minutes drive away from the city of Jaen and both Ryan Air and Iberia fly from the UK to Granada from about £70 return. And don't forget for all ski lovers, that the Sierra Nevada mountain range is just outside Granada, so within day trip reach.

A View of Ronda

Sun, 8 Oct 2006 17:50:18 +0200

Ernest Hemingway said the ideal spot in Spain to witness a bullfight for the first time was in Ronda. He was guaranteed the best seat in the house on his many visits to the Plaza del Toros. As was another fan of bullfighting, film director Orson Welles. Had they been at the peak of their careers today they would no doubt have wanted to buy an apartment with a permanent view of the oldest bullring in Spain. Clever men though they were, they would have had their work cut out. Such a property is as rare as a safe driver on the streets of this ever popular tourist destination. Ronda is blessed with views. The mountains and the gorge are the most photographed. Then there is the bullring, a building that oozes character. It is easy to see why Hemingway and Welles spent so much time there. It has the feel of a spiritual retreat and out of the high season it can, perhaps surprisingly, be the quietest spot in Ronda: a haven of peace and tranquillity despite the amount of blood that has been spilled there over the years. Ronda has always considered itself to be the home of bullfighting. In 1775, Pedro Romero was the first matador to display his skills there. Today, its 5000 seats are more likely to be occupied by extras on a film set than by spectators at an actual bullfight. Such events have been banned in some areas of Spain. But other towns and cities are defying politically correct thinking and building new bullrings. Today, the greatest danger to tourists and house hunters alike comes not from a stray bull but from the humble motor car. Plans to only allow into Ronda cars owned by residents cannot come a moment too soon. Here is a place that is crying out for further pedestrianisation. Considering how low the bullring is, it is surprising that so few buildings overlook it. Offices above bank headquarters and local restaurants have a bird's eye view of most of the ring. Some apartments above the Hotel Royal also look out on to the historic sight. However, one coming on the housing market is almost as rare as an actual bullfight in Ronda today. It is not so much the bullring that potential residents wish to see from their windows but the adjacent Alameda del Tajo (Promenade of the Gorge). This is a wonderfully designed tree lined avenue where locals and tourists alike take a stroll to witness the panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. Without question, this is one of the most consistently enjoyable views in Spain. The Tajo was completed in 1806 courtesy of monies raised from fines imposed on those who foul mouthed in public. Today the serene surroundings are likely to leave you speechless. In order to overlook the bullring you would have to live on the road that dissects the city, the Virgen de la Paz. It is a very central location for all that the city has to offer, but is by no means the prettiest area of Ronda. There is no shortage of property for sale all within ten minute's walk of the bullring. Some are being sold at low prices not seen in much of modern day Spain. For example, A&B are selling a home in the Padre Jesus area of Ronda for just 114,000 euros. Living here means a steep walk up into the centre of the city but you are away from the tourist coaches and have many splendid countryside walks on your doorstep. It has three bedrooms, a courtyard, central heating and air conditioning. It has splendid countryside walks on its doorstep. The historic fountain of eight spouts is across the road from the house - very handy should your water supply be cut off! British people who have bought in Ronda will tell you that the city is not blessed with a great deal of modern day culture. When friends are due to arrive from the UK they are asked to bring with them the latest books and music. Concerts and theatre performances are few and far between in Ronda and residents travel as far as Seville to satisfy their lust for culture. It is clear that there is a price to pay should you wish to have a permanent and memorable view in Ronda. There are many vantage points from which to savour this city and the surrounding countryside. The best view of the bullring though is from within its Neo-classical walls. A good idea would be to buy one of the cheaper homes in the less touristy areas of Ronda and then enjoy the scenic walk to the Plaza del Toros. Choose your seat, pull out your copy of Death in the Afternoon and understand why Hemingway was so in love with this historical arena.

The Sun Shines on Andalucia

Thu, 14 Sep 2006 17:45:47 +0200

British holidaymakers may know Spain's southernmost province best for the Costa del Sol, but a string of sophisticated cities, timeless white-walled villages and stunning mountains await the more adventurous. When Franco needed to drive foreign currency into Spain during the 1960s he created a stretch of coastal holiday resorts we now know as the Costa del Sol. Its heart runs between Málaga and Marbella and encompasses the infamous Torremolinos and a swathe of tourist towns, which to this day remain heavily populated by north European holidaymakers and ex-pats.

Derided in more recent times for their gauche over-development, many of these resorts have been given a fresh face to rejuvenate their appeal. At the eastern tip remains the anomaly Gibraltar, a little piece of Britain clinging incongruously to the southern Spanish coast.

However, the Andalucían region offers extraordinary diversity. Picasso's birthplace Málaga is remarkably untouched by tourism. To the north Seville and Córdoba contain stunning architectural landmarks, as does Granada in the east, along with winter skiing in the imperious Sierra Nevada.

To the west is a windsurfing Mecca around Cádiz, there is sherry capital Jerez and eco-destination Huelva - all emerging as alternative attractions, while the dramatic Pueblos Blancos pander to those with a taste for white-walled towns hugging precipitous mountains.

For sun lovers the region has always held strong appeal, although in the interior during high summer it can be hellishly hot and most city residents decamp to their nearest coastal resort every weekend and for most of August.

An efficient motorway network links the major towns and cities although the deficiencies of public transport make a car essential for those planning something more ambitious than a one-stop beach holiday or city break.

However, major capital expenditure on the railways is promising dramatically shortened journey times between Málaga, Seville and Madrid in 2007 and with it real estate agents predict that Madrileños will flock southwards.

Andalucía's climate has made it famous for olives and 20% per cent of global olive oil production comes from this region alone, with Jaén at its centre.

Not surprisingly seafood plays a big part in the cuisine and no beach is complete without sardines being grilled over open coals. Fresh fruit and vegetables are grown throughout and the Moorish influence of neighbouring Africa stands out in the citrus fruits, nuts and spices available.

Andalucía arguably serves up the broadest range of Spanish bar snack tapas and the region is also famous for the delicious cold soup gazpacho.

The warm climate means that Andalucíans love a cold beer as much as a glass of wine but the quintessential drink is sherry, produced in Jerez where the majority of the world's biggest labels are based.

The huge injection of northern Europeans attracted to the region comes at a price to those wishing to invest. While there are still bargains to be had in the mountains, a short drive inland from the coast, costs have skyrocketed over the past decade and along the coast villa and apartment prices compare expensively with other European resorts.

Spaniards are by tradition apartment dwellers in the cities, so for those seeking an urban experience these types of homes are most likely to be available.

The coast offers both apartments and villas although location dictates price. Villa homes in the interior are more reasonable and partial to complete remoteness is easily achievable. Meanwhile, to the east next year's opening of the extended coastal motorway will dramatically improve the links to Almería and Murcia, boosting property prices in the region.

However, the building boom has also spawned badly planned urbanizations and seemingly no villa with unspoilt views is entirely safe from the prospect of 30 new homes being built on its doorstep.

It is also worth remembering that increased competition in the holiday let market makes choosing a good location essential - so if you spot a bargain buy make sure that it really is good value.

Story from timesonline.co.uk

Wednesday, September 13, 2006 Life on the Costa VerdeHugging the northern coastline from west to east, much of the Celtic-influenced Green Spain has a wet climate familiar to northern Europeans. But a diverse collection of provinces, including resurgent arts centre Bilbao, plus Rioja country give it a special appeal. If ever a building reinvented a city then the Museo Guggenheim is it. A northern industrial town of little note, Bilbao has become a major tourist attraction simply for its architecturally stunning arts museum, making it a hot city break destination.

The capital of the separatist Basque Country, Bilbao is however far from the only highlight of a small but fascinating area of Spain which manages to conjure up one of Europe's great wine regions in La Rioja (a wine that dominates the shelves of Spain), a beautiful coastline, a green interior and a corner of the Pyrenees.

The region is also known for the crazy annual bull run festival in Pamplona while for those with a taste for the finer things in life, seaside town San Sebastián serves up the best regarded bar snack tapas in Spain and the much-lauded Basque nouvelle cuisine.

Indeed San Sebastián boasts not only a stunning setting around a half-moon cove, with green hills as a backdrop, but also an old town teeming with bars and restaurants offering a vibrant nightlife.

Bilbao to its west has also rediscovered how to party after two decades decaying as an industrial relic. With the Guggenheim has come a new and dynamic attitude which makes this city one of Spain's hippest places to visit or simply hang out.

Further west is Cantabria, one of Spain's smallest provinces and a continuation of the verdant Basque scenery, with beautiful coves, green rolling hills and tiny fishing villages. Indeed both landscape and climate are reminiscent of parts of the UK.

Port town Santander may not be a highlight of the region but is a setting down point for ferry routes from Plymouth, Poole and Portsmouth, which put it within 24 hours reach of England without the need to jump on a plane.

Neighbouring Asturias is a similar and small region, notable for the elegant city of Oviedo and the internationally renowned jagged fissures of the Picos de Europa mountain range, just 15km in from the coast. Small but perfectly formed, they offer great outdoor pursuits.

Galicia, the most north westerly area of Spain, meets the Atlantic with force and the ocean brings with it rain at any time of year. The Celtic history remains evident and Galicians have revived their language in recent years, with many street signs given in both Galician and Castilian.

Although much of the interior has been affected by deforestation, the region still contains the religious and architectural landmark Santiago de Compostela. The cathedral is the town's main attraction but its surrounding squares and plethora of monuments make this a must-visit destination.

La Coruña to the north is Galicia's busiest business centre and is an attractive if unspectacular port town with some nice beaches. It is home and headquarters to one of Spain's most successful exports, fashion store group Zara.

The most easterly of Spain's green belt provinces is Aragón, a region with borders to France, the Basque Country, Catalonia, the Castilian heartlands and the Mediterranean Valencia province.

What Aragón serves up is a rich tapestry of castles, mountains and stone villages and the province is home to some of the best of the Pyrenees, with walking and skiing in abundance.

Further south and the central plains give way to sparsely populated countryside punctuated by fascinating villages and striking monasteries and castles. The major town of the area is Zaragoza, a likeable if unspectacular city whose population has been boosted by a gradual country to city drift. Improved rail links promise to boost the city's economy.

Heading towards Valencia and Teruel is the south's most striking stop off, a hilltop town full of some of Spain's most ornate Mudéjar monuments. Property-wise the Costa Verde is easily the best value of the Spanish Costas although it comes without the guaranteed sunshine of the others. However, price rises are outstripping the rest of Spain, albeit from a lower base, and homes in Roman town Lugo in Galicia jumped an amazing 37.6% last year and was Spain's top performer.

Full Story from travel.timesonline.co.uk

Tuesday, September 12, 2006 Buying to Build in Andalucia Given that the average property price in Spain is now 240,000 and increasing at approximately 11% per annum, it is no surprise that more and more people are considering the lower cost option of buying a plot of land (parcela) and building their own dream property, or having it built, instead of purchasing an existing finca or buying a newly built villa in Spain.

To keep up with this demand, property agents such as 1 Casa, are offering a wide selection of plots, some with planning permissions and building permits included, for sale. Cristina Sanchez of 1 Casa, comments, "We have seen a significant rise in interest from buyers of land only. People are still keen to find their very own piece of Spain but not everyone can afford the increasing property prices - buying a plot of land with a view to building your own property in the future is a cost effective option for many. You also get what you want as you want it."

The cost of land varies considerably in Spain depending on the province, from 40 to 120 euros per square metre, and building costs range from around 300 to 700 euros per square metre depending on the quality and location. Although building your own home is not always hassle-free there are advantages as individuals can choose their perfect location, the design and finish of their home, and be assured of the quality of the materials and workmanship.

As with any property purchase abroad there are certain things to consider. Cristina offers some top tips on buying land for development:

When starting your search think carefully about location. Which province do you wish to live in, do you want to be near to a village, town, the beach or the mountains? What is the access like, are there good roads, how far is it from the airport? Is there any public transport? Don't just get swayed by an amazing setting, think of the practicalities.

Do your research - having a good knowledge of your local market is essential so that you pay the right amount for your land. Talk to local residents, officials and agents for advice.

As with any property purchase, appoint a good Spanish lawyer. They will be able to help you check the land use status, sort out taxes, get a building permit and arrange a build contract.

Choose the right plot. Spanish property law contains some differences depending on province; in Valencia for example the effects of the LRAU have caused some residents serious problems. Andalucia does not suffer the same fate but avoid this potential problem by finding out whether the plot has got or will be granted planning permission. Approach the urbanismo department of the local town hall with your lawyer and view the Urban Plan. This will tell you if the plot has any building restrictions in place, is in a green zone or has any public access routes. Also remember to check future plans for the area as this may affect your property positively or negatively. Check with agents that they are offering a plot with permission for a house and not just an agricultural building.

Get a survey. This is standard practice in the UK and I would urge any buyer to do the same in Spain. Your land surveyor will measure the exact number of square metres of the plot. Compare this to the land register to ensure that the official measurements and boundaries match up.

Check the owners registry. It is not uncommon in Spain for some plots to be inherited by more than one party. Check to see if the vendor is the only person with the rights to sell.

Budget for additional expenses. Costs such as architects fees (from 6-10% of the build cost),aparejador (project manager who oversees the build) fees (1-2%), building permit (4-5%), the declaration of new building (0.5%), safety study (0.8%), geological report (1% if required) and a first occupation permit (0.5%). Depending on location there may also be the cost of extending utilities such as water, electricity, gas and telephone lines.

1 Casa are currently offering buyers the opportunity to purchase a 168m2 plot in stunning Alora, Malaga with full planning permission and building licences in place for 3 luxury apartments covering 417m2 in total for only £180,200 / 266,300. With projected construction costs of 600 euros per square metre and selling prices in the region of 1900 euros per square meter there is a real opportunity to gain from this investment. Also on offer is an excellent plot of urban land in Benito Suarez, Alora, with full planning permission and building licence in place for 5 apartments and several car parking spaces (there are currently none available in the area). The 207m2 plot, priced at £173,400 / 255,000, has fantastic potential with no other opportunities of a similar nature anywhere nearby.

Win a home in Spain

Tue, 6 Jun 2006 16:11:19 +0200

Although the date for existing Charlton season-ticket holders to renew their place at The Valley has now passed, there are still plenty of incentives to secure a seat in SE7.

The good news is that there is no price increase following the expiration of the season-ticket deadline on June 2nd.

And both supporters who renew their season ticket plus new applicants still have the opportunity to win a dream holiday home in Spain.

One lucky season-ticket holder will win a Spanish apartment - worth more than £50,000 - courtesy of club sponsor and property firm Llanera, and even have the opportunity to select their own interior fittings.

Every supporter who buys a 2006/07 season ticket and correctly answers a Charlton question will be entered into a special prize draw to win the holiday home.

The most common mistake made by foreigners buying in Spain.

Tue, 6 Jun 2006 16:10:40 +0200

"They rush," said Stucklin, who owns spanishpropertyinsight.com, an advice Web site, and writes a column for The Sunday Times of London. "People go on an inspection trip for two or three days and they expect to come home with a property."

Buying property in Spain is considered relatively easy. There are few restrictions on foreign ownership and a time-tested system is in place to aid the process. But horror stories abound.

Last year dozens of buyers lost their homes in Elche, south of Alicante, when the local government declared their houses were built without the proper permits - a fairly common practice by unscrupulous developers.

Up the coast in Valencia, homeowners are fighting what they call a "land grab law," which allows local governments to seize land and to impose fees to support new developments. While it is an extreme case, similar laws exist throughout the country.

In many ways, the Spanish property market can be a minefield, especially for investors enticed by the consistent double- digit annual increases in property valuations. Many analysts say the era of huge annual price increases may be ending, although buyers have heard that before.

Last year alone, house price increases typically ranged from about 8.4 percent in Cataluña to 16.2 percent in Valencia, according to government statistics - an enviable increase by any standard.

Given those statistics, buying-to-rent may sound like a no- lose situation to some investors. But, "if you can't afford to buy without rental income, I wouldn't do it, end of story," said Allan Young, a partner of TAG Wealth Management, a financial consultancy in Sheffield, England.

A second bite at the cherry of success

Tue, 6 Jun 2006 16:10:06 +0200

There are two main reasons we head for southern Europe - climate and lifestyle. On a relaxing holiday, however, the idea of doing business there would never cross our minds.

Obviously business does get done, it's just that the cultures of countries like Spain and Italy tend to hide it better, making work part of a larger picture, rather than allowing it to dominate the day. However, perhaps it's the influence of the British, but some cities are becoming increasingly like the UK in their working hours, instead of taking their famous long lunches and finishing mid-evening.

The informality of Spain, for example, does not always translate into business, foreign visitors are expected to be punctual, even though they may be kept waiting. Making appointments can be something of a task too, enquire well in advance and get written confirmation. For those who choose to live and work in Spain, or anywhere in southern Europe, there can be UK-bred frustration at the length of time it takes to get action, or even a decision.

However, the reality is that an increasing number of British people are being attracted to the life in Spain, particularly if their business lends itself to remote working anywhere. With an increased choice of air routes, the distance to friends and family is lessened and the opportunities for working within Europe and beyond are even greater.

Musician and composer Ged Grimes moved from Dundee with his wife Tricia and sons Jack, 9, and Sam, 2, to Coin, a small town in Andalucia last year. It was a lifestyle choice, but the global reach of technology has eased the transition. Grimes had to move a full studio to Spain, and communications with existing clients was paramount.

'The internet has made it possible to work remotely, but the infrastructure is not as developed inland as on the coast.' Another aspect which is set to help communications long term is that at the moment, their closest airport is being expanded, and in 2007 the high-speed train will connect Malaga to Madrid in a little more than three hours.

Borrow for a Second Place in the Sun

Tue, 6 Jun 2006 16:09:43 +0200

From Bordeaux to Barcelona and Budapest to Bulgaria, British holidaymakers in their thousands are falling for foreign second homes.

Buying abroad has gained momentum in recent years, as homeowners dream of retiring in the sun or investing in countries with profit potential. Some 250,000 Britons own a property outside the UK.

But while finding the right property at the right price might be relatively easy, how should you pay for it? Many people simply tap into savings or remortgage their first home and pay cash up front. This is by far the cheapest and simplest method if you have equity in your current home in Britain, as long as you bear in mind currency conversion costs. Since large deposits are often required on purchases - sometimes up to 40 per cent - buyers could remortgage to pay this and then take out a loan for the balance.

But if you want to take out a mortgage in the country where you are buying, how do you go about it? Several UK lenders provide loans on overseas properties through their international divisions. Some of these lend only in sterling, while others will lend in the currency of the country if you prefer. Most specialise in key eurozone countries such as France and Spain.

Simon Conn, managing director of Conti Financial Services, says: 'Most clients should borrow in the currency they are earning, but those who buy properties in popular countries like Spain and Portugal and then rent them out tend to arrange their mortgage in euros. This is so they can offset their euro rental income against the loan repayments.' A further attraction of euro loans especially is that they are significantly cheaper than sterling deals. Conn says: 'Interest rates are typically 2.5 percentage points less at the moment.'

Touching 60 and opening the throttle

Tue, 6 Jun 2006 16:08:38 +0200

Retirement is being redefined by the "baby boomer" generation which is abandoning an afternoon's gentle gardening or conundrum-solving with Des Lynam for adventure sports, exotic travel and personal re-invention.

Trends show that those born in the "baby boom" between 1945 and 1963 are "retiring" from full-time employment only to take on a new career or to raise grandchildren as "granny nannies".

The old-fashioned notion of retirement is becoming obsolete. In fact, those in retirement say they are busier than ever.

Too Young To Retire, a best-selling book published in America, sums up this shift, saying retirees want to "rock the boat instead of the chair".

Howard and Marika Stone, its authors, said they came to the realisation that retirement was a great place to visit - "but who in their right mind would want to live there?"

They created a website - 2young2retire.com - and encouraged others to stay in the workforce after 65. Their book includes 101 ideas for jobs to pursue including cake decorator, computer tutor, ghostwriter, nanny, park ranger or wedding planner.

"Call it retirement if you insist," they say, "although renaissance or renewal are more accurate. If you are like the majority of people, your next life will include one or more of these - community service at a high level, a retirement career that uses experience and skills, or a retirement business that lets you express your talents and values."

Research in Britain published today shows a big shift towards living abroad and starting a new life.

Half of all people over 50 have seriously thought of moving abroad to live a cheaper life in the sun, fuelling a trend which has seen spending on properties overseas increase by 45 per cent in four years.

Forty-six per cent of people aged 50-69 have thought of "packing it in" and living abroad, a figure that rises to 50 per cent among men.

British families have put more than £23 billion into overseas property, with most of that invested in Spain, France and Cyprus, although increasing numbers are turning to Canada, the Caribbean and New Zealand and even Egypt.

Spanish property draws new generation of retirees

Tue, 6 Jun 2006 16:08:12 +0200

Not least because of A-Day and the government's reforms relating to property investment through Sipps, people are approaching retirement in a much different way than was once common.

Buy-to-let investment is extremely popular with those now in their 40s, 50s and 60s while property investment in general is increasingly appealing as a means of supplementing a retirement income.

A report in the Telegraph yesterday drew attention to a new book titled Too Young to Retire and the sentiment that runs through this publication appears to be the same thing that is driving so many people to take an interest in property.

"The old-fashioned notion of retirement is becoming obsolete. In fact, those in retirement say they are busier than ever," writes social affairs correspondent Sarah Womack.

Howard and Marika Stone, the authors of the book, even contest the very premise of the term "retirement".

"Call it retirement if you insist, although renaissance or renewal are more accurate. If you are like the majority of people, your next life will include one or more of these - community service at a high level, a retirement career that uses experience and skills, or a retirement business that lets you express your talents and values."

Given the Brits' notorious passion for property, it is unsurprising that many are turning to property as their "retirement business", while many more are simply heading abroad for a more exciting or just more relaxing lifestyle.

Hotel For Sale Luxor

Fri, 2 Jun 2006 15:37:58 +0200

This hotel for sale in Luxor, Egypt is a modern hotel situated near the Nile, some 350 metres from Luxor Temple and Museum, and 15 kilometres from the airport. The 55 air- conditioned guestrooms are spread over four floors and have simple modern decor with wicker furnishings. All guestrooms open onto balconies and include satellite television, minibars, direct-dial telephones, and bathrooms with designer toiletries.
After a dip in the pool, hotel guests can relax with a drink at the poolside bar. The Restaurant is a buffet restaurant, serving continental and middle eastern food in a relaxed atmosphere. The Bistro Restaurant, situated in the foyer, serves light meals and drinks. After a meal, guests can chat over drinks in one of the bars, or take advantage of round the clock room service. The hotel has laundry facilities, and multilingual staff at the 24-hour front desk can exchange currency and advise on local amenities and attractions. Guests can visit the Luxor Temple and Museum 350 metres away, or the Karnak Temple three kilometres away. Luxor International Airport is 15 kilometres from the hotel, with an approximate driving time of 20 minutes.

Facilities:
Restaurant
Swimming pool
English style pub
Laundry service
Telephone and fax service (International)/Conference room.
Baby Food
Gift Shop
Bamboo styled, private balconies
Telephone
Color T.V
In-house video
Satellite T.V. channels

Area Activities:
Luxor Temple & Museum - 350 metres
Karnak Temple - 3 kilometres (2 miles)
Valley of the Queens - 25 kilometres (16 miles)
Valley of the Kings - 28 kilometres (17 miles)

Land In Spain

Thu, 1 Jun 2006 17:04:39 +0200

Land for sale in Spain

Prime building development land available in southern Spain. Interested parties are invited to contact us via email in the first instance: info@lemontreevillas.com

Puerto Banus Land For Sale Spain - Ref: L012
Plot size 6,732m2
Techo 10,203m2
Construction for underground parking
Commercial ground floor
5 Levels for apartments possible up to 100.
The plot is direct from the owner, the architect is licenced and a project would be passed in approximately 6/8 weeks.

San Pedro Land For Sale Spain - Ref: L014
Surface area approx 30,000m2
Techo 55,000m2
Build surface area 18,000m2
This site is in the centre of San Pedro and on the main N340. Permission already granted to demolish and rebuild existing site.
Parking underground
Ground floor commercial
2 Level, 3 Level ,and 4 Level apartment blocks.
It has a Tinsa valuation guaranteed.
51% of the site can be brought.leaving 49% for another developer.

Algeciras Land For Sale Spain - - Ref: L017
A plot of 10,000,000m2 with 4,5 km of beach front.
There are 4 escuturas for the site so easier for division.
This is in a very good position especially for the new fast ferry to Morrocco and views over to Morrocco.
This is direct from the owners and we are awaiting for confirmation on quantity of build area.

Malaga to Cordoba Land For Sale Spain - Ref: L018
A plot of 3,700,000m2 and only 20 minutes from Malaga.
This site is destined for Golf Course and approx 3500 vivendas.

Aloha Nueva Andalucia Land For Sale Spain - Ref: L019
Two new villas approx buld 300mtrs each with pools.
7 villa plots included.
4 have views toward the mountains.
5 have sea and mountain views.

Benahavis Land For Sale Spain - Ref: L022
Surface area 10,797m2
Techo 6,877m2
Clarification Suelo Casco Urbano for 44 town houses

Egypt Real Estate

Sun, 28 May 2006 12:39:37 +0200

Spanish property agent - Lemon Tree Villas, prepares the way for property investors in Egypt. Trading in Egypt under the name Elite Properties Egypt they have recently opened new offices in the ancient city of Luxor to cater for the rapidly increasing demand for residential and commercial development properties from both European and North American investors.

"Interest in the investment property market in Egypt is beginning to awaken as the wider world becomes aware of the incredible investment opportunities and incentives available for investors in Egypt." Says Peter Jennings of Elite Properties Egypt.

The key factors attracting overseas investor interest include Egypt's fast growing tourism sector, the fact that the government is continuing to commit to legislative initiatives designed to enhance the investment climate and the fact that property prices in Egypt remain low and affordable whilst demand for quality property for sale and short term let is increasing.

The majority of real estate investment interest is currently centred upon the resort areas of Egypt and the major cities like Cairo, Luxor and Alexandria.

"In the resort areas on the Red and Mediterranean Sea coasts property investors are tapping into the increasing tourist demand for short term rental accommodation." This market is currently returning the best rental yields countrywide.

The second home resale market in the resort areas is also beginning to present profit potential on the underlying capital investment made because more overseas buyers are seeking holiday homes or second homes in these areas. Egypt is close at hand for European holidaymakers and therefore owning a holiday home in this exotic location makes perfect sense for many European travellers.

In Egypt's main cities like Cairo, Luxor and Alexandria overseas property investors are again seeking to profit from rental returns, and with the creation of brand new luxury residential property districts like Cairo Heights, international interest is increasing.

Overall the future prospects for the property market in Egypt are positive. Egypt is a politically stable country and one currently enjoying the best relationships with many of the world's most influential economies that it has ever enjoyed. The economic climate in Egypt is open for investment and investors are being actively encouraged by taxation breaks, low labour costs and a country that has a growing middle class who are beginning to exercise their increased purchasing power.

Overseas real estate investors are aware that the growth in the purchasing power of the domestic market is fantastic for the long-term profitability of all investments in Egypt's property sector. The overseas tourism and second home markets will account for good yields and returns but a growth in domestic demand and purchasing power will allow investors to more aggressively target Egypt safe in the knowledge that they have a wider market to potentially profit from

The last Costa?

Mon, 22 May 2006 13:32:21 +0200

Uncrowded, accessible and relatively inexpensive, the Costa del Azahar is everything that discerning British buyers could want.

Most Britons capable of finding Spain on a map can also point out the Costa del Sol and the Costa Blanca. Far fewer, however, will be able to point to the Costa del Azahar Spains Orange Blossom Coast. But in all likelihood, many of the Britons who have bought cramped, pricey flats on the Costa del Sol, or snapped up hastily built villas from dodgy agents on the Costa Blanca in the south, would have been much better off on the Costa del Azahar, the last remaining coastline still largely undiscovered by British buyers.

Visit the area, and you are immediately struck by how few sunburnt Brits are wandering around. According to Spanish government statistics, there were just 900 British residents in Castellon province at the end of 2005, compared with 26,256 in Malaga province (Costa del Sol) and 42,000 in Alicante province (Costa Blanca). Is this lack of interest among British homebuyers justified?

Do canny Brits know something about the Costa del Azahar that others dont? And are there good reasons why 41,100 more Brits choose to live in Alicante province, just 80 miles south? The answers to these questions dont support our self-image as savvy investors and discerning tourists. Unless you are golf-mad, there is no compelling, knockout reason for choosing the Costa Blanca or the Costa del Sol over the Costa del Azahar. The real reasons why Brits arent in the Costa del Azahar boil down to ignorance, a tendency to follow the herd and a taste for the easy option.

If you do your research before deciding which coast to choose, you will discover that the Costa del Azahar in Castellon province is 75 miles long, running from the border with Catalonia in the north, where the mighty Ebro River flows into the Mediterranean, to the border with Valencia province in the south, just 30 miles from the city of Valencia itself.

Beside sandy white beaches and fragrant orange groves, the Costa del Azahar offers a pleasant climate, breathtaking countryside (both coast and mountains) and delicious local cuisine. While there may not be many golf courses no bad thing on environmental grounds the province has the highest proportion of land protected in parks and nature reserves in Spain. In short, this is an attractive, very Spanish coast with plenty of things to do exactly the sort of place you would expect British property buyers to be all over.

Marbella residents face uncertain future

Mon, 22 May 2006 13:31:38 +0200

Just because illegally constructed buildings are now occupied will not stop them being cordoned off, the committee now running Marbella has made clear.

The committee was appointed after arrest of the mayor, deputy mayor and officials on charges stemming from an alleged long running cash for planning permission scam. Marbella had consistently ignored regional planning outlines and court rulings on the legality of its planning permissions.

Now the new regime is systematically cordoning off the illegally constructed buildings and has called a halt to nine developments that are under construction without proper planning permission, and which are mostly already subject to court orders.

It has said it is considering issuing eviction orders against occupants of the illegally constructed buildings, although it would take the rights of residents and their period of occupancy consideration. However, it has emerged that many residents moved in without the required occupancy licence having been issued.

Developments cordoned off include a development of 180 homes in Elviria Sur, a former post office building in Calle Alonso Bazán and a 34 home development on the old Francisco Norte football ground.

Free Classified Property Listing In Spain

Mon, 15 May 2006 17:22:48 +0200

As everyone is now aware the property market in Spain has most definitely slowed down - although it has to be said that the "bubble" is still very healthy and a long way from bursting.

Many property agents and owners are however finding it tough going especially those who wish to sell quickly. With this in mind FreeAdSpain has been formed to enable both private property sellers and real estate agents to advertise property for sale in Spain totally free of charge!

Absolutely everyone is welcome to place a free classified property listing at www.freeadspain.com. The adverts are fully editable and can be changed as often as as little as the advertiser wishes - all ads are capable of carrying a good sized image of the property for sale.

So if you want to maximise your properties exposure to potential buyers across the globe simply login to www.freeadspain.com and get advertising!

Costa del Disney!

Sun, 7 May 2006 15:32:09 +0200

Disney is drawing up plans for a possible park on the Costa del Sol which could transform the area's tourist industry.
The company has held talks with Spanish officials about building on farmland near the town of Manilva, southwest of Marbella, although the two sides have given different accounts of the venture.

Disney said it was in negotiation for various new schemes in Manilva, including a summer camp for children, offering the opportunity to improve their sports and languages.

Javier Sansierra, the executive who has been running negotiations with Manilva town hall, denied it planned a full-scale theme park like Disneyland Paris, operated by Euro Disney.

"While I completely agree that a Euro Disney would do well in Spain and personally I believe it should have opened here in the first place, there are no plans to open a second or mini amusement park in Spain for the time being," he said.

However, officials in Manilva suggested a more ambitious project was being considered. "The discussions are well advanced," said Lucy Fernandez, a town hall spokeswoman.

"It is at a sensitive stage, so I can't say too much, but the eventual aim is to open a Euro Disney-type park in four or five years."

Francisco Alvarez, the local tourism officer, who has been closely involved in the negotiations, said: "We have the space here for Disney and are urbanising a couple of large areas for them. I know the company has acquired at least one estate here and we hope they will begin building soon."

Our low cost love affair with Spain

Sun, 7 May 2006 15:31:31 +0200

When it comes to owning a holiday home in the sun, Spain remains the most popular destination for British people buying property in Europe.

The Official Social Trends Report has reported that Spain accounts for 27% of all Briton's second homes abroad and the Spanish Ministry of Tourism expects 1m foreigners to set up home on the Spanish coast within the next six years.

The demand from British people for property in Spain has been fuelled by the demand for low rate Euro mortgages and the boom in low-cost, budget airlines, according to Banco Halifax Hispania, the Spanish arm of Halifax, the UK's largest lender.

Research from OAG has shown that the number of low-cost flights to and from Spain is up 25% on last year, while low-cost operators within Spain have increased by 160%. The growth in low-cost, budget airlines has not only opened up the sun, sea, and sand in Spain to the independent traveller, but has also driven the development of new, regional airports.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), passenger numbers from UK airports increased to 217m in 2004, an 8% increase on 2003's figures. In addition, regional airports have seen passenger figures triple from 1987 to 2005 and saw 9% growth in 2004 alone, increasing to 88m passengers.

The highest growth in regional airports has been in Newcastle, which experienced a 21% increase of 0.8m passengers, followed by Bristol at 19% (0.7m) and Leeds Bradford airport at 17% (0.4m). In addition, flights to Spain from the UK increased by 4% (1.2m) in 2004, compared to 2003.

Bulgaria trails Spain in property league

Sun, 7 May 2006 15:30:59 +0200

Just one in ten British buying sunbelt homes last month chose Bulgaria, despite its lower prices, a survey has found.

Seen as rivals for the Spanish real estate crown, Bulgarian developers have ended up at number four spot among the most popular destinations for British overseas property buyers in a recent survey topped by France and Spain.

Foreign currency specialist, HIFX, reported that France and Spain accounted for almost half (43 per cent) of all its currency transactions for buying property abroad in March 2006. Australia was in third place with 11 per cent of transactions, followed by Bulgaria (ten per cent), USA (four per cent), Canada (two per cent) and South Africa (one per cent).

The survey shows that the majority of Brits are looking for an overseas property that can be used for regular holidays, is easily rentable, with cheap flights, and offers a quick escape to the sun.

London-based real estate consultancy Assetz commented that people are still flocking to Bulgaria to invest in the emerging property development sector there, due to the fact that it is on the verge of entry to the European Union (EU).

Record Brits plan retirement in Spain

Sun, 7 May 2006 15:30:26 +0200

More British people over 50 are planning to retire to Spain attracted by lower retirement costs and its sunshine lifestyle.

One in five Britons and a third of Germans are considering retiring to Spain, according to a new survey as online specialists PropertyinSpain report records numbers of inquiries from would-be buyers.

The survey, carried out by property consultants King Sturge, showed 22 per cent of Britons said they were considering moving to Spain, while 35 per cent Germans said they had considered the same option.

After interviewing 800 Britons and 800 Germans over 50 it appears there is also a surge in the numbers of people planning to retire in Spain because of the high standards of healthcare and social services facilities - often part of packages offered by many estate agents in Spain.

Martin Zuchner, head of the King Sturge office in Madrid, said he believed there was a new-found optimism in Germany about retiring abroad with 44 per cent of Britons and 34 per cent of Germans claiming the high health standards would attract them to retire to Spain.

Spain remains Brits' favourite

Sun, 7 May 2006 15:29:44 +0200

Despite the continued emergence of other Eastern European countries such as Bulgaria in the property market, Britons remain attracted to Spain, it appears.

New research has shown that the UK's love affair with Spain remains as strong as ever and the number of people travelling to the country from Britain shows now sign of abating. The country remains a hot favourite among Brits because of the ease at which it can be reached and the warm climate on offer once there.

However, a study by Banco Halifax Hispania the Spanish division of the UK's Halifax suggests that another reason could be behind the decision of Brits to travel to the Spanish sun. The availability of low-cost airlines to the region has jumped significantly in recent years and the proliferation of airlines flying to Spain has forced prices even lower, with carriers competing fiercely for the attention of customers.

With a wide variety of flights for customers to choose from, as well as the various special deals offered by airlines to tempt more people to fly with them, is proving popular and as such even more people are now heading out to Spain.

The impact of such competition on lowering air fares is that more people are squeezing on to planes bound for Spain, vastly increasing the opportunities for investors in the area.

Seeking out a Spanish investment property

Sun, 7 May 2006 15:29:19 +0200

With the summer months approaching, an increasing number of Brits will be toying with the idea of splashing out on an investment property in Spain.

Spain now accounts for 27 per cent of all of the overseas second homes owned by Brits, according to the Official Social Trends Report. As noted by Halifax today, the Spanish Ministry of Tourism is expecting a further one million foreigners to choose a home in the country within the next six years.

The Spanish property market undoubtedly benefits from the fact that the country remains a haven for tourism. With a steady supply of visitors each year, it is inevitable that many are suitably impressed to the extent that they choose to buy in the country, encouraged by the quality of life and the financial conditions.

Halifax reports that the Spanish market also benefits from the high demand for low rate Euro mortgages, while there is also an attractive abundance of low-cost budget airlines flying regularly to several Spanish airports.

Indeed, research from OAG indicates that the number of low-cost flights to and from Spain is up by 25 per cent against the figures for last year and low-cost operators within Spain have increased by 160 per cent.

It is a development that should not be overlooked as it is the very absence of low-cost flights that has hampered growth in some of Europe's emerging property markets.

Further boosts for European property investment

Sun, 7 May 2006 15:28:24 +0200

Property investment opportunities in Europe have been boosted again this week, with two key pieces of news in relation to the economies of Spain and Germany.

As picked up by the Associated Press (AP), Spain will on Monday lift restrictions on the entry of workers from some of the newer members of the European Union (EU), which analysts have suggested will have a significant impact on the country's economic growth.

It follows similar moves from Britain, Ireland and Sweden, all of which now allow workers from eight former Soviet-bloc nations, Malta and Cyprus, to enter the countries to work with immediate effect.

The AP points out that Spain requires foreign workers because of huge shortages in various sectors. While the Spanish economy has performed adequately for a number of years, it has one of the world's lowest birth rates and there are key gaps that need to be filled.

The overriding ambition, according to EU officials, is to allow Europe to compete with the US and emerging Asian powers as what the AP refers to as "a seamless economic dynamo". Individuals from EU member states were originally allowed to work wherever they chose to do anyway, but when the EU expanded in 2004, 12 members imposed two-year restrictions.

Benalmadena

Tue, 25 Apr 2006 15:07:21 +0200

Benalmadena is split into two sections with Benalmadena Costa the part of most interest to the many tourists who visit this popular Costa del Sol resort every year.

**** Benalmadena Featured Property****

**REDUCED FOR QUICK SALE**

Price: 278,250 Euros (Previously 301,350)

Size: 3 Bed 2 Bath

Ref: LTA035

http://www.lemontreevillas.com/property_sale_spain_LTA035.php

The resort lies 15km south west of Malaga airport between between the resorts of Fuengirola and Torremolinos. Benalmadena Costa is a purpose-built coastal resort extending 8km along the coast which climbs steeply up into mountains behind. The cable car from the coast up to the top of the mountain is a well worthwhile trip but not recommended for those with a fear of heights.

This whole section of the Costa del Sol from Torremolinos going west to Fuengirola and encompassing Benalmadena is characterised by high-rise tourist developments meeting the demands of mass tourism. Having said that recent developments have gone ahead with much stricter planning regulations than in the early days with a focus on better quality tourism which is reflected in the port of Benalmadena Costa which has been tastefully developed and is can handle more than 1,000 boats and yachts of all types. The port is the focal point for Benalmadena's social scene and is central to the resort.

From Torremolinos you can walk all the way along a flat promenade to Benalmadena port with plenty of little bars and restaurants on the way for refreshments. Look out for the ancient Moorish watchtowers. Above Benalmadena Costa on the side of the mountain is Benalmadena Pueblo which is still an attractive old Spanish village with the typical whitewashed houses on cobbled streets. A refreshing escape from the newer developments on the coast.

Good news for Spanish property investment.

Tue, 25 Apr 2006 15:06:46 +0200

While property investment in Spain has rarely been off the radar for years now, emerging property markets including Bulgaria and Cyprus have inevitably stolen some of the limelight.

House price growth has remained strong in Spain, however, and investors continue to flock to the country with the intention of making considerable returns, both through rental income and capital gains.

As reported by the Spain Herald this week, average house prices are now higher than 6,000 (£4,146) per square metre in nine cities in the country, reflecting the rate of house price inflation nationwide.

Referring to figures from the Tecnitasa property valuation firm, the publication indicates that Sevilla, Oviedo and Zaragoza have now joined the elite list that already includes Madrid, Barcelona, San Sebastian, Bilbao, Marbella and Santander.

Given the number of exciting developments taking place in the area, it is encouraging to know that Murcia is among the cheapest cities in the country, with properties available at 600 per square metre.

Many property investors are hugely enthusiastic about growth in Murcia, with nearby La Manga already drawing in huge interest from golfing groups and families. Property prices are high around La Manga and rentals are also impressive and many predict the same trends for Murcia.

According to Typically Spanish, there is also the Corvera International Airport to look forward to, which will be operational from 2009. Ramon Luis Valcarcel, president of Murcia, predicts it will be used by one and a half million passengers during its first year of operation and that numbers will triple in the short to mid-term.

Spain is top holiday spot.

Tue, 25 Apr 2006 15:06:07 +0200

Spain has regained its crown as the top European summer sun destination for British tourists.

The country has overtaken former hotspots like Turkey and Greece, according to online travel agency Holidays-Direct.

"On assessing confirmed bookings we see Spain is the destination of choice, ahead of other countries," said Paul Reeve of Holidays-Direct.

"The phrases that visitors to our site are searching for also point to Spain being the top country as it features in a huge number of searches.

"When people search for Spain it is usually alongside other phrases, such as "sun deal" or "bargain holiday".

"Spain is definitely established in the consumers' minds as a value-for-money destination for families where you're guaranteed to get good weather."

According to the travel company, Spanish destinations are popular because the country is supported by airports in all regions of the UK.

Another reason for the high number of bookings is the buoyant Spanish property market and the fact that many UK residents own homes in Spain.

"This naturally leads to more holidays being booked. People are flying to their holiday homes more frequently, instead of holidaying in different countries and they invite friends and family. It has a snowball effect," Mr Reeve added.

Web site design Spain

Sat, 29 Apr 2006 17:43:44 +0200

Red Hot Chilli provide a full range of web site and database design services for clients on the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca in Spain. They can be contacted via email at info@redhotchilli.info or by phone on 952 44 53 56.

Mortgage lending soars in March.

Tue, 25 Apr 2006 15:05:34 +0200

The UK property market appears to be in buoyant form with news that underlying mortgage lending increased by its biggest amount in almost two years during March.

The British Bankers' Association (BBA) has found that underlying mortgage lending rose by £5.4 billion in the month, which is the largest increase since June 2004 at the peak of that particular boom.

In February, the rise was only £4.7 billion and the average during the preceding six months was £4.9 billion, leading analysts to suggest that the market is set for a sustained period of growth.

Good news for property investment in the UK, the announcement also banishes doubts that the market is slowing, with homebuyers now more confident than ever about making a purchase.

At the same time, the BBA indicated that unsecured personal lending fell by £0.4 billion, against an average rise of £0.5 billion during the previous six months. Loans and overdrafts fell by just over £0.1 billion, while credit card borrowing fell by £0.2 billion compared to an average increase of £0.2 billion in the preceding six months.

David Dooks, director of statistics for the BBA, remarked: "The contrast between stronger mortgage lending and net repayments of unsecured borrowing suggests that individuals are optimistic about the housing market, though careful about card borrowing, overdrafts or taking on personal loans."

Good news for Spanish property investment.

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 16:03:17 +0200

Spain is top holiday spot.

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 16:02:06 +0200

Spain reigns supreme in rush for Easter sun.

Mon, 17 Apr 2006 13:56:14 +0200

Spain is the favourite destination this weekend for British tourists as a record 2.3m holidaymakers shun the UK in an attempt to find the sun.

The Association of British Travel Agents said the exodus abroad was caused by the poor weather for this time of year and Easter falling later than usual.

The second most popular foreign destination is Cyprus, followed by Portugal, Tunisia, Egypt and Florida. Israeli tourism has also seen an improvement.

Domestic tour operators have reported strong demand for holidays in the Lake District, the Cotswolds and seaside resorts, with Blackpool, Brighton and Torquay in favour.

The big departure began on Thursday as holidaymakers looked to get a head start on other travellers.

More than 1m air passengers will flee the country through airports operated by BAA, with almost half a million filling Heathrow airport and approximately 262,000 leaving from Gatwick.

The Easter break will also give London-based hospitality companies an opportunity to gauge the capital's recovery from last summer's bombings.

Latest figures from the Office of National Statistics revealed that the number of visitors to the UK from other countries in the last three months of 2005 was 12per cent down on 2004. Inbound business tourism proved more resilient, however, with visits 10 per cent up on the previous year.

VisitBritain, which promotes British tourism, said recent airport data gave "cause for optimism" regarding arrival trends from Asia to Britain.

More retired homeowners looking overseas.

Mon, 17 Apr 2006 13:55:27 +0200

Research from Economic Lifestyle has revealed that nearly ten per cent of retired UK homeowners are considering living abroad, which could be the equivalent of over 800,000 people.

The retirement housing and finance company believes that this shift towards foreign property investment has been fuelled by the boom in the UK housing market over the past decade, allowing for more equity release from older residents' assets.

Economic Lifestyle's research suggests that 328,000 retired people would look to release over £30,000 from each of their homes' equity to finance an overseas purchase.

Property investment in Spain has often been overshadowed in recent years by stories of potential growth in Europe's emerging markets.

Mon, 17 Apr 2006 13:55:02 +0200

For those in the know, however, Spain has rarely been out of mind, with conditions remaining excellent for capital gains and demand from locals and foreigners alike extremely high.

As reported today by Expatica, the desire to own property is still strong among Spaniards, even after interest rates were increased.

Mortgage loans increased by 37.7 per cent in January when compared with 12 months earlier, reflecting much higher confidence and a growing trend of homeownership in the country in general.

Expatica reports that the Bank of Spain has criticised the European Central Bank for the current rate saying that it is "expensive", but it is clear that families are willing to go through with property transactions all the same.

Demand from foreign investors is always likely to remain high and this has played a significant role in sustaining almost unrivalled house price growth over the last couple of decades.

Because of Spain's thriving reputation for sports and golf in particular, many choose to purchase holiday homes around developing golf resorts, with many intending to rent their properties out to holidaymakers who head back to the lush fairways and immaculate greens every year.

Of course, it is rare to discuss Spain's allure without mentioning its beautiful beaches and property investors have also been boosted on this front.

Easter boom for property purchases.

Mon, 17 Apr 2006 13:53:53 +0200

The property market in the UK is continuing to strengthen, according to most experts, and it will receive another welcome boost this Easter as buyers take the opportunity to step up house buying activity.

Because confidence was severely dented in 2005 when some pundits were speculating about the possibility of a crash, it has inevitably taken a while for the market to return to form.

The cut to interest rates in August was clearly instrumental in instigating this transformation and analysts have since been observing a steady improvement as house prices have climbed across the UK.

Property investment has again been attracting huge amounts of attention, while A-Day added extra impetus with the hugely popular changes to self-invested personal pensions (Sipps).

While Nationwide's Quarterly Regional Review recently reported on the fastest quarterly house price increase since the middle of 2004, there have still been some doubts as to whether the growth will continue, but haart estate agents is expecting substantial interest in the coming days and weeks that suggests the market is ready to kick on again.

Part of the Spicerhaart group, the largest independent network of agents in the UK, haart has reported a 32 per cent increase in appointments booked over the Easter break compared to last year.

The Brits' love of property and of property investment is legendary and it appears to be a passion that is growing stronger.

Mon, 17 Apr 2006 13:53:05 +0200

Partly thanks to the number of property investment programmes on television, more and more couples are deciding to retire abroad, while thousands of others decide to invest in foreign property to make money through a mixture of capital growth and rental income.

According to a new survey, almost a third of Britons say they are interested in buying property abroad or indeed moving abroad, with Spain continuing to lead the way in Europe.

Based on research from Banco Halifax Hispania, the Spanish arm of Halifax, America and Australia are the favourite choices for potential property buyers, however, which is perhaps tied to family issues.

Without any language barriers, many Brits have family in the US and Australia, who have typically left the UK in the past because of work commitments.

Many of those looking for holiday homes or retirement pads also decide they would prefer not to sample a radically new culture, preferring the safe bets that share a great deal with the UK.

Nonetheless, in third place on the overall list, Spain is clearly still exceptionally popular with property seekers, helped by the enviable climate and a track record for strong house price inflation.

With cheap flights running regularly between the UK and a number of Spanish airports, transportation is also much easier for those buying a property in Spain, whereas lengthy and expensive flights to America and Australia make it an awkward choice for people who would like to make trips back to see family and friends.

Antequera is getting ready to take off - almost literally.

Sun, 2 Apr 2006 14:33:05 +0200

Plans for a new international airport in the area are well under way, although subject to approval from AENA, the airport authority, which is studying the compatibility of the proposed new airport with future expansion plans for Malaga Airport. Also being studied is the effect the new airport could have on existing flight paths in the province. If approved, the new Antequera Airport, to be built by the Vera Group, will be the first private airport in the province.

AENA carried out a preliminary study in October 2005 on possible operative and technical difficulties in relation to the location of the two airports, and the Airport Authority then determined that given the possible interaction that could arise from the existence of the two airports, it would be necessary to request more information from the promoters, in order to continue compatibility studies. According the sources from within AENA, new information has been sent on to them and it is being analysed. A definitive reply is expected within three months, and it will then be the responsibility of the Civil Aviation Authority to approve the project or not. If approved, the new airport will be built on land close to the main Cordoba road, the N-331.

The promoters, the Vera Group, have presented a viability study to the Ministry for Public Works. The mayor of Antequera, Ricardo Millán, tells us that he has information from the Minister, Magdalena álvarez, and from the president of AENA, Manuel Azuaga, that the project is likely to be given the green light in the near future.

If that is the case, and if building work is carried out on schedule, the new airport in Antequera will be open for business at the end of 2009 or the beginning of 2010, to be used mainly by low-cost airlines. In fact, while all the paperwork is being done, the promoter and construction company are having talks with representatives of the principal low-cost airlines about the possibility of their using the proposed new airport. The airport will also handle cargo transportation, we are told by the director of the project, José María de la Maza.

Good for Malaga
The new airport, being fully international, will be very good for Malaga Airport as well, says the mayor of Antequera, Ricardo Millán. Although Malaga Airport will continue to expand, the increasing rate of passenger numbers shows that it will still become overcrowded in a short time, he says. He believes that the new airport will be the fourth pillar of the economy of the region. We are on the crossroads between the two principal motorways in Andalucía, the AVE station will be built here soon, and the Bobadilla-Granada line is also being studied. If we add the new airport, we will be in contact not only with the principal cities in Andalucía, but with the big capitals all over the world, he says.

Spanish eyes on holiday homes.

Sun, 2 Apr 2006 14:32:26 +0200

Many of us love the idea of a place in the sun. And despite many surveys indicating that Bulgaria, Romania or Estonia are the places to be, Spain is still where many Brits opt for a holiday home.

Thanks to Spain's popularity and easy access, for many there has been the added bonus of being able to rent out the property to friends or holidaymakers and make some spare cash.

But a large number of Britons who let properties have been omitting to tell the Spanish taxman and, after years of turning a blind eye, the authorities are now on the hunt for extra revenue.

A bill to catch foreigners avoiding tax went before the Spanish parliament early last month (March 2006) and even before new legislation comes in, the crackdown has begun.

Having latched on to the opportunity to make some cash from the half-a-million Brits with homes in Spain, the taxman has started hatching cunning plans to snare dodgers.

The authorities have begun searching rental agents' listings, scanning small adverts and talking to local businessmen and hoteliers to find out who is renting out properties and comparing their findings to people who have registered for tax.

And thanks to the internet, the taxman's task has become a lot easier and a lot more lucrative, with holiday rental sites providing rich pickings.

Britons who own Spanish homes but are non-resident in the country should pay two sets of annual taxes.

There is a wealth tax, based on a property's value, and levied on a sliding scale generally in tranches of e170 and starting at 0.2%.

In addition, there is a notional annual income tax that should be paid even if a property is not rented out, which is based on a percentage of rateable value.

Frank Porral, a Madrid tax specialist for Rastrollo Porral Abogados, says most areas have set the level of this tax at 1.1% of the rateable value, with the taxpayer charged 25% of that figure.

If a property is rented out, a further tax of 25% on actual income should be paid, which can be offset against the notional tax, with income declared within 30 days of the rental period.

Removals Spain UK

Mon, 27 Mar 2006 16:49:17 +0200

UK Removals S.L. are a British owned Spanish registered company based in Malaga on Spain's Costa del Sol.
From our secure warehousing facility near Malaga International Airport we are able to provide removal services to clients both domestic and commercial who wish to move locally within Spain or from Spain back to the UK.

In addition to removals in Spain we can provide you with a complete "Pack and Wrap" service. By utilising our expert packing techniques prior to the removal you can rest assured that your furniture and goods arrive at their destination in Spain or the UK without being damaged.

UK Removals International is recognised as one of the leading specialists in Spain providing door-to-door removals, with more than 30 years' experience. Either full or part loads are accepted.

Costa del Sol Removals

Baby-boomers set to push UK property market

Wed, 22 Mar 2006 15:54:53 +0200

It has been claimed that the UK's property market is set to benefit from an explosion in interest from baby-boomers.

According to new research carried out by Prudential and Datamonitor, the post-war generation who were born and grew up in the aftermath of the Second World War are about to start looking for the best retirement packages, with second homes high on their list of priorities.

The study discovered that their homes are currently worth a combined £543 billion across the UK and that figure is set to increase over the next 15 years to £1,425 billion as the youngest of the baby-boomer generation reach retirement age.

An increasing number of people are considering investing in property as a way to supplement their income when they retire, with many believing that a pension will be inadequate for their needs. And it appears that the baby-boomer generation shares that sentiment, as many are preparing, or have already, invested in property to provide them with a regular income in their retirement.

"Property can form a great part of a retirement planning portfolio," commented Ali Crossley, director of lifetime mortgages at Prudential UK.

"It may be too late for people approaching retirement to build up a supplementary source of income using a pension, savings or investments. However the equity tied up in their homes could be instrumental in boosting their funds."

Property for sale Spain

The big dilemma on Costa costs is not finding, but financing

Wed, 22 Mar 2006 15:53:44 +0200

More people than ever, even expats, are opting to beat the winter blues with a second property overseas where it is warm all year round - but what is the best way to pay for it?

Britain's biggest building society, Nationwide, reports an 85pc increase over the past decade in the number of Brits who own foreign property.

Price is a great attraction, with properties that need refurbishment but with a good amount of land selling for less than £60,000 in Spain. For £170,000 it is possible to get a three-bedroom property with two bathrooms, roof terrace and sea view on the Costa Blanca.

However, purchasers who do not have the cash to buy outright are faced with a tough decision. They must choose whether it is better to raise money in the UK against any existing property and pay cash for the overseas home, or take out a mortgage in the country where the holiday home is located.

Most people choose to have a mortgage in the UK. David Hollingworth of London & Country Mortgages said: "They know and understand the UK system and feel more comfortable with it.

"Generally I believe it is better to keep any loan in the same currency as your income. That way you do not have currency fluctuations to worry about."

Property for sale Spain

Leeds Building Society launch Euro mortgages in Spain

Wed, 8 Mar 2006 17:08:22 +0200

Leeds Building Society has launched a Euro mortgage to enable the financing of property in Spain on the Costa del Sol.

Based in Gibraltar, the Leeds Building Society Spanish Mortgage Operations Manager Sally Butcher, commands a team of specialists who's job it is to make the whole process easy and stres free.

In setting this venture up, the Leeds Building Society is leading the field in answering the call for Spanish property finance, but with UK Building Society backing, something the UK buying public has always wanted, but has not been properly provided until now.

The benefits of a Euro mortgage over a sterling mortgage is easy to see simply by looking at the monthly repayments. The interest rate is lower so the borrower benefits from day one. It is the Euros lower interest rate that has been attracting borrowers to the Spanish banks for many years, however, dealing with foreign banks, in a foreign language, in a foreign country has not been an easy path for many.

Property for sale Spain

Spanish taxman homes in on Brits

Wed, 8 Mar 2006 17:07:39 +0200

Spanish taxman homes in on Brits

Some half a million Britons are said to own a home on the Iberian peninsula - and many rent it out without paying tax on the income. The Spanish revenue has had enough and is launching an efficient clampdown.

Spanish tax authorities are targeting overseas property owners as part of a wider clampdown on tax dodgers - a strategy that raked in an extra £1bn last year.

More than half a million Britons are thought to own homes in Spain either as an investment or a holiday home which may be let for odd weeks to friends and family. Owners have to pay tax of 25 per cent on rental income.

Traditionally, Spanish tax collectors have been lax at making sure tax was paid by foreigners, many of whom never declared rental incomes. The Spanish used to take the view that if they got something out of foreign residents and home owners, it was better than nothing. Provided non-resident foreigners paid the wealth tax - charged at between 0.2 per cent to 2.5 per cent of the registered value of their homes - they were happy.

Property for sale Spain

Transparency Returns to Spanish Property Market

Mon, 6 Mar 2006 16:16:26 +0200

While Spain has long been a favourite destination for UK residents looking to invest in property, there have always been reservations about some of the less reasonable land laws.

While capital appreciation on Spanish property has been essentially unrivalled across Europe for ten years or more, individual cases seem to emerge sporadically in which investors are found to have lost money on the basis of unclear legislation or underhand negotiation.

It is testament to the general appeal of popular investment regions such as Murcia and the Costa del Sol, however, that recent figures from the Office for National Statistics indicate that Spain continues to top the list of European favourites among UK investors.

Around 23 EURO's billion was spent on property investment abroad last year, with 27 per cent of this going on Spanish property. It is a situation that is set to continue as prospective property buyers find they have more confidence in the general market in Spain.

For one thing, the European Commission is applying strong pressure over a tax discrepancy by which Spanish residents pay 15 per cent tax on profits from property sales but foreign investors pay 35 per cent.

Property for sale Spain

Britons Spend 23bn on a Place in the Sun

Mon, 6 Mar 2006 16:10:33 +0200

A huge demand for homes in the sun has seen Britons' spending on properties overseas increase by 45 per cent in four years.

The number of Britons owning second homes abroad now exceeds a quarter of a million people, at 257,000.

An official report today says British families have invested more than 23 GBP billion in overseas property, with most of that invested in Spain and France although increasing numbers are turning to Canada, the Caribbean and New Zealand.

But people buying villas and apartments have been blamed for soaring house prices in areas of France, Spain and Italy.

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics show that more than a million families in England own a second home, the vast majority of which (72 per cent) are in England, with five per cent in Wales and Scotland, and the remainder overseas.

"In recent years the increasing affordability and accessibility of foreign property markets has contributed to a rise in the number of UK households that own second homes abroad," the report, Social Trends, says.

"Between 1999-2000 and 2003-4 the number increased by 45 per cent."

Spain accounted for 27 per cent of all second homes abroad, followed by France at 20 per cent.

But in 2003-4 over a third of all homes owned abroad were outside Europe with almost 154,000 in the United States.

Property ownership was also increasingly common in countries such as Australia, Canada, the Caribbean, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa and Sri Lanka.

Alex Wright, director of currency specialist HIFX, which assists Britons buying property abroad, said there was strong demand in more adventurous locations.

"Spain and France are still the most popular destinations, but we have seen increased interest for investment property in Bulgaria and Dubai. Even Canada and Switzerland have seen their fortunes rise and new locations pop up all the time, including Egypt, Brazil and central Europe - Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic."

Property for sale Spain

Viva España 2006 Hailed as a Major Success.

Sun, 26 Feb 2006 12:30:04 +0200

Thousands of people (the total numbers have not yet been announced by the organisers, Blendon Communications) attended the Viva España show at Londons Olympia exhibition hall last weekend. And the event merited the title of show to a greater extent than last year, as the entertainment for visitors was almost non-stop and included new features such as the auction of sports memorabilia as well as the staples of flamenco, art and fashion shows, and the displays of Spanish horsemanship which have been a major attraction since the first Viva España exhibition six years ago.

Property for sale Spain

Record numbers of Britons leave for better lives abroad

Sun, 26 Feb 2006 12:29:05 +0200

Record numbers of people are leaving Britain to live and work abroad, figures show. More than 350,000 men and women are emigrating every year, a rise of 30 per cent in 10 years, The Independent reports.

Experts are particularly concerned that the number of people in professional occupations leaving Britain has doubled since 1994.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics show that 359,500 people migrated from Britain to other countries in 2004, up from 236,500 in 1994.

While the outflow of people was offset by 582,000 foreigners coming to live in the UK for at least a year, there are concerns that Britain is proving less attractive to migrants, whom it desperately needs to plug staffing shortages.

Property for sale in Spain

Illegal building: The expat nightmare

Fri, 17 Feb 2006 12:15:13 +0200

Illegal building: The expat nightmare

Spain is notorious for illegal builders, but how bad is the problem really?

If it's not the state grabbing half your land, it's muggers grabbing your handbag; if it's not these, then its the media telling everyone you live in a hell-hole dominated by beer-swilling expats, corrupt officials and murderous thieves.
Add to which, these days, an increasing number of tales of bad builders; at best incompetent, at worst criminal.
The bad shepherds are finding new ways to fleece their ever-increasing flock of lambs to the slaughter.

But how bad is it, really? The answer is bad, but mainly only for those who fail to do their homework.
Sally and Joe Alden, originally from Bradford, in Britain, bought their home near Calpe, on the Costa Blanca, from a British estate agent, acting on behalf of a British vendor.
No, you don't need a solicitor, he told them, I'll do all the searches for you.

Betty Anggold was assured her house would be ready by October, 2005 but it wasn't. nor by November, or even by Christmas. It still isn't.
It wasn't until they moved in that they learned that proposed development adjoining their land would cost them at least EUR 25,000 in infrastructure charges.
Furious at this apparent deception, they took both agent and vendor to court.
They lost, and had the defendant's costs awarded against them.

Property for sale Spain

Boom in Spanish property market continues

Fri, 17 Feb 2006 12:14:33 +0200

Boom in Spanish property market continues

For two decades, Spain has been almost unrivalled within the European market in terms of its position as a property investment hotspot and experts at The Homebuyer Show are suggesting that this continues to be the case.

One of Spain's key advantages over competitive property markets is that it annually attracts millions of holidaymakers. Since 1994, in fact, it has been far and away the most popular holiday destination for UK residents and it accounted for 28 per cent of all holidays taken in 2001.

With France in second place with just 18 per cent of the market share, it is little wonder that the property market in Spain has remained extraordinarily strong despite rash claims from some that the bubble is ready to burst.

Many of those who holiday in the country decide to purchase a second home or build up a portfolio of property investments and Mark Schubert, managing director of Lemontreevillas.com, believes this will continue for many years.

Property for sale Spain

Spanish economy steams ahead as Europe stagnates

Fri, 17 Feb 2006 12:13:50 +0200

Spanish economy steams ahead as Europe stagnates

GDP growth last year of 3.4% more than double the single currency bloc's

Spain's already buoyant economy accelerated further in the final quarter of last year, while laggard members of the euro-zone took a step backwards.

According to preliminary figures released Tuesday by the Spanish National Statistics Institute (INE), Spain's gross domestic product grew 0.9 percent in the final three months of the year after an increase of 0.8 percent in the third quarter. That left the year-on-year growth rate unchanged at 3.5 percent. GDP for 2005 as a whole was up 3.4 percent, the highest level since 2001, as Spain continued to outstrip its European partners.

By contrast, growth in the 12-member euro area slowed to 0.3 percent in the fourth quarter from 0.6 percent in the previous three months. According to preliminary figures also released yesterday by Eurostat, the bloc's statistics office, GDP for 2005 as a whole came in at 1.3 percent, down from 2.1 percent in 2004.

Property for sale in Spain

Spanish Property Restrictions

Tue, 14 Feb 2006 11:16:21 +0200

Spanish Property Restrictions

Fears of further mass development on the Southern coast of Spain were laid to rest this week when Valencia announced building permission will only be given to Spanish property developers if there is sufficient water supply .

This latest decision will probably jeopardize a number of development schemes. However it should be a benefit for many individual Spanish property owners looking to sell their Spanish resale property. As bad publicity has recently over shadowed the new development market regarding licence's etc, more and more Spanish property buyers are deciding to take the safe route and buy a completed resale.

Property for sale Spain

Looking after the old is a young business in Malaga

Tue, 14 Feb 2006 11:15:19 +0200

Looking after the old is a young business in Malaga

Almost 200,000 people over the age of 65 live in Malaga province, which is almost 13per cent of the total population. Statistics show that this figure will double inside fifteen years due to two factors the ageing of the population and the attraction Malaga has for retired people from all over Europe. Another factor is sociological: the changing structure of the family in our times, with women fully integrated into the labour market, thus leaving fewer of them to look after older family members. The result is a succulent cocktail for the building speculators, who have discovered a new outlet in the construction of residences for the old in the province of Malaga.

Property for sale Spain

Strong Property Market Freezes Interest Rates

Tue, 14 Feb 2006 11:14:35 +0200

Strong Property Market Freezes Interest Rates

As has been widely anticipated in the last few days, the Bank of England has decided to keep interest rates at 4.5 per cent, with the strength of the property market a key reason behind the decision.

After the interest rate cut in August 2005, the property market almost immediately showed signs of recovery and confidence has been steadily rising ever since.

While first time buyers had previously been reluctant to commit to any property purchases, Yorkshire Bank found this week that they are now willing to overpay to ensure they secure a place on the property ladder.

It seems that while those in the property investment business will be generally satisfied with the decision to freeze rates, manufacturers will be less pleased. Recent figures from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) indicated that like for like sales on the High Street had climbed only 0.2 per cent in January, which represents the slowest start to a new year that retailers have seen for more than a decade.

It is in fact the remarkable resilience of the property market that has given the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) the biggest headache in making this decision, as none of the members had been expecting the recent recovery in the housing market to be so pronounced.

Property for sale Spain

Bank of Ireland in mortgage lending link-up with Spanish bank.

Fri, 10 Feb 2006 11:58:57 +0200

The Bank of Ireland is set to cash in on Irish peoples huge appetite for investing in property abroad by offering mortgages for houses in Spain.
The bank has linked up with Spanish bank La Caixa to offer three different mortgage packages to Irish buyers.

It is the first time an Irish bank has joined up with a foreign bank to offer products to those who want to buy property in Spain
Gabriel Bannigan of BoI said they decided on the new venture after research showed how many people were buying outside of Ireland with Spain one of the top destinations.

The Banks venture with la Caixa offers three options to people seeking to finance a property purchase in Spain.

Property in Bulgaria now available.

Sun, 5 Feb 2006 13:46:14 +0200

Property for sale in Bulgaria

When the first wave of Brits invaded Provence and Tuscany in a property-buying spree, they found derelict farmhouses and villas at rock-bottom prices and turned them into sought-after holiday homes. That was more than 30 years ago. Now cheap flights and wider EU membership is encouraging British buyers to look at markets from Bulgaria to Morocco in search of the next bargain-basement buy.

What is Bulgaria Like?
In many ways, Bulgaria remains the unknown country of the Balkans. Less newsworthy than the former Yugoslavia, and less heavily touristed than neighbouring Greece and Turkey, it`s a place that brings few distinct images to mind.

As with many little-known destinations, however, there`s a great deal to discover here: much of Bulgaria is like an open-air museum of Balkan culture, with beautifully decorated churches, fine mosques, wonderfully preserved rustic villages and a great deal of enduring folklore.

The mountainous interior makes it one of the top hiking destinations of Europe, while over on the Black Sea coast, the white-sand beaches are just as magnificent in reality as they look in the tourist brochures.

Property in Spain

Modest house price increases in January

Sun, 5 Feb 2006 10:52:47 +0200

Although certainly not glittering, the 0.1 per cent increase in house prices during January adds weight to the claim that the UK property market has successfully turned a corner in the closing months of 2005.

The new report from Hometrack shows that the small increase was predictably led by London, where increasing demand and a continued lack of supply meant the average house price increased by 0.2 per cent during the month.

Residential property investment certainly suffered in 2005 as buyer confidence plummeted and many people waited anxiously in fear of a crash in the market. With the cut in interest rates in August and a general rejuvenation throughout the industry observed in the run up to the usually quiet Christmas period, the situation changed dramatically and there have been a number of extremely positive predictions for the market in recent weeks.

A survey from propertyfinder.com found that while only 25 per cent of respondents considered themselves to be first-time buyers in September, the figure had risen significantly to 37 per cent by the beginning of 2006.

Richard Donnell, director of research at Hometrack, has suggested that this could represent a significant trend for the overall health of the market in the coming years.

"The scale of new buyer registrations over the next few weeks will be an important indication of what sort of year we can expect for the market," he proposed.

Property in Spain

UK Inward migration 'boosts buy-to-let sector'

Sun, 5 Feb 2006 10:52:12 +0200

A new survey has found that almost half of the UK's buy-to-let landlords are expecting rental demand to rise as a result of increased immigration in the next few years.

According to the latest Buy-to-Let Trends survey from Paragon Mortgages, rental demand from immigrants has been rising steadily over the last five years which has provided a solid and dependable source of income for many buy-to-let investors.

Professional landlords with large portfolios were found to have an average of 4.4 non-British tenants in their properties, while small-scale landlords had an average of 0.5. Of professional landlords, 40 per cent have seen demand from immigrants increasing over the last few years, with 27 per cent of small-scale landlords observing the same trend.

Buy-to-let investment projects certainly seem to have gained momentum because of the number of immigrants who rent property before looking to get a foot on the property ladder and landlords are optimistic for the future of the sector.

Property for sale in Spain

The Spanish property market is drawing U.K. investors in hordes

Mon, 30 Jan 2006 10:13:40 +0200

Latest statistics from the Spanish government reaffirm the fact that the country remains one of the most sensible options for UK residents looking to enter a foreign property market.

Though Spain may no longer dominate the attention of British investors in the way it did in the 1990s, the consistent growth of the market and the inexorable popularity of the country as a tourist resort and second-home haven mean that astute investors are continuing to make enviable profits from their ventures.Government statistics show that house prices in Spain increased by an average of 12.8% in 2005. This is admittedly down on the 17.2% increase in 2004, but it has been welcomed by government officials and investors alike.

Property for sale in Spain

Further optimism for Bulgarian property market

Sat, 28 Jan 2006 12:11:51 +0200

Property investment throughout Europe remained strong last year, with the likes of Bulgaria property and Cyprus continuing to offer viable alternatives to traditional investment options in Spain and France.
In an evaluation of some of the most popular locations, fly-2let.com has reaffirmed recent reports that Bulgaria's stature in the European property market is continuing to rise, referring to findings by the Bulgarian National Statistical Institute that the average house price rose by 36.6 per cent last year.

One of the most important and perhaps underestimated factors in a country's potential as an investment hot spot is its capacity to attract tourists and this is something that Bulgaria has rapidly addressed in the last ten years.
With a thriving ski season and the Black Sea region growing more popular each year, money is currently pouring into the Bulgarian economy and the effect on the housing market has been pointed. The marketing of Sofia has been particularly impressive, with tourists now exploring the previously underappreciated capital city.

Property for sale in Spain

UK property investors advised to look abroad.

Sat, 28 Jan 2006 12:10:50 +0200

It is understandable that many people investing in property for the first time are tempted to limit their search to the UK, but experts have been highlighting the advantages of looking abroad for both residential and commercial investments.
The property market in the UK has admittedly returned to good health in recent months with buy-to-let investors expecting high yields and rising house prices meaning incisive investors are likely to make considerable returns on residential properties.

Property for sale in Spain

'Slowdown' as Spanish property rises 12%

Tue, 24 Jan 2006 08:22:08 +0200

'Slowdown' as Spanish property rises 12%

Property growth forecasts by leading Spanish banks were spot-on at 12 per cent for last year and they are forecasting the same again for 2006.
House prices in Spain rose by 12.8 per cent in 2005, according to the latest official figures from the Government - who welcomed the first general slowdown in the property boom for four years.

New government figures for new build and resale homes showed the increase was significantly lower than in 2004, when house prices went up by 17.2 per cent. Not since 2001, when house prices went up by 11.1 per cent, has the average yearly increase been so comparatively low.
Figures showed that up to December 31, 2005, the average house price across the whole of Spain including all in-demand second coastal areas was EUR 1,824 per square metre.
Rafael Pacheco, director general of architecture in the Spanish Ministry of Housing, said the figures were as expected and more reasonable house prices should follow in 2006.

Property for sale in Spain

December 2005 mortgages best for 12 months.

Tue, 24 Jan 2006 08:21:27 +0200

Figures released today by the Council for Mortgage Lenders revealed gross lending of £26.3bn in December 25% more than the same month in 2004.
The volume of home loans taken out for purchases was boosted by the number of people remortgaging on fixed and discounted deals that have now run out.
Lending in December fell by 6% from November, following its typical path of decline towards the end of the year.
The CML said despite widespread fears of a housing market crash in 2005, annual lending totalled £287.5bn just 1% down on 2004's record £291.2bn.
CML director general Michael Coogan said: 'The commentators who thought lending would fall sharply in 2005 based on the performance of the first half of the year were wrong. Confidence in the housing market was supported by the realisation that short-term interest rates had peaked and the downward trend in fixed-term rates throughout much of the year, resulting in stable house prices.

Property for sale in Spain

Bulgaria tempts UK property investors.

Tue, 17 Jan 2006 12:57:21 +0200

With the increased availability of cheap flights and the current popularity of relocation television programmes, property investors from the UK are becoming increasingly adventurous as they look for the perfect property.
In an assessment of the current European property market, the Independent has suggested that Bulgaria has now become a genuine alternative to France and Spain as an estimated 80,000 Britons make the decision to purchase a second home. Peter Esders, a partner at law firm John Howell & Co, states that because some people are solely interested in a holiday home while others..

Property in Bulgaria

European Commission decides to refer Spain to the Court of Justice over two tax provisions.

Tue, 17 Jan 2006 12:56:28 +0200

The European Commission has decided to refer Spain to the Court of Justice over its taxation of non-residents' capital gains realised on the sale of Spanish immovable property. Under Spanish law, capital gains of resident individuals derived from immovable property are taxed at a rate of 15%, whereas similar capital gains of non-resident individuals are taxed at a rate of 35%. The Commission has also decided to refer Spain to the Court of Justice over its taxation of non-residents' employment-related income. Under Spanish law employment related income is generally subject to a final withholding tax at a rate of 25% when it is paid to non-resident individuals whereas for resident individuals it is taxed according to a progressive scale.

Property in Spain

European Housing Ends Year On Surprisingly Upbeat Note.

Mon, 16 Jan 2006 17:31:13 +0200

Housing markets across Europe are now expected to avoid the dramatic crashes predicted just a year ago, with most markets ending the year on a surprisingly positive note and looking forward to at least modest price growth during 2006.

Property in Spain

For silence and sanctuary, take a walk in the hills behind in the Sierra Subbetica.

Mon, 16 Jan 2006 12:08:48 +0200

For silence and sanctuary, take a walk in the hills behind in s nobody else in sight. No roads, no telephone wires, nothing except the high vapour trail of a passing jet to tell me what century I was in. Just a few stone walls and derelict almond groves, the deserted threshing floors of vanished farmsteads and the wild music of goat-bells echoing among the woods and crags of Andalusias best-kept secret.

Property in Spain

European property investment remains attractive.

Sun, 15 Jan 2006 16:36:10 +0200

In a speech on the global macroeconomic outlook, Standard & Poor's chief European economist Jean-Michel Six has suggested that property investors have genuine cause for optimism in the coming year.

For those investing within the UK, a more secure housing market is likely to bring about a "bounce back" in the economy, according to Mr Six. This backs up claims earlier this week from the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) that the property market appears to be "back on track" having endured a difficult period in the early parts of 2005.

Mr Six's assessment also adds to the general consensus that the property market has successfully manoeuvred away from a potential crash, while many experts are looking forward to house prices rising between three and five per cent before the end of the year.

This rise is likely to gain momentum if Mr Six's prediction of cuts to interest rates proves accurate. Despite rates remaining constant yesterday, many experts believe that the Bank of England will be prepared to introduce another cut before long. Part of the reason for the current stability, however, is that the housing market is demonstrating increasing signs of activity.

Property in Spain

Britons may face back taxes on villas.

Sun, 15 Jan 2006 16:34:46 +0200

BRITISH expatriates who have dodged tax laws in Spain by paying for part of their dream villas in cash face large back-tax bills as the Spanish Government prepares to introduce a new law that aims to crack down on the practice.
The legislation, which is expected to come into force this year, aims to stamp out the age-old custom of not declaring to the taxman the full price paid for a property. In these cases, the difference between the price paid for a property and what the taxman is told is collected in cash, which is undeclared.

Most Britons who have bought property in Spain will be aware of paying in black. Typically, the seller and buyer will reach an agreement before a deal is finalised. When the documents are signed, the lawyer handling the deal, be it a rental agreement or sale of a property, will leave the room and money is handed over.

Even King Juan Carlos is reputed to have paid 50,000 in cash for properties in southern Spain and not declared the full price.
Industry observers say that the law, when it takes effect, most likely will target only the most recent property deals, within the past year or so.

Property in Spain

U.K. House prices climbing again.

Sun, 15 Jan 2006 16:33:35 +0200

There appears to be irrefutable evidence that the UK property market is regaining momentum with news that house prices have now increased in six of the last seven months.

HBOS, the world's biggest mortgage lender, has released figures showing that house prices rose by one per cent to an average of £171,632 in December. This contributes to a 2.1 per cent increase in the fourth quarter and a 5.1 per cent increase over the year as the property market gradually turns the corner after a difficult beginning to 2005.

The majority of the improvement came after the Bank of England cut its benchmark interest rate a quarter of a point in August in an attempt to encourage growth in the economy, which was increasing at its slowest pace since 1992.

Property in Spain

Spanish property market to see aggressive construction in 2006

Sun, 15 Jan 2006 16:32:44 +0200

With real estate prices rising by an average of 140% in the past seven years, new figures indicate that there were 800,000 new home starts in Spain last year to accommodate growing demand for second homes.

Live In Spain, an organisation backed by several leading Spanish developers, recently forecast that spending on Spanish holiday homes will double from approximately EUR25 billion in 2005 to EUR45 billion by 2010 (a rise of 117,000 homes purchased to 150,000 in five years).

It is also estimated that 1.7 million of the 3.7 million holiday homes in Spain are owned by foreigners (70% of which are British and German).

UK mortgage lending soars.

Sun, 15 Jan 2006 16:31:49 +0200

New figures reveal that mortgage lending in the UK increased by £1 billion in November reflecting the injection of confidence that the UK property market has received in the last few months.The report from the Bank of England indicates that after repayments, individuals borrowed a total of £9.6 billion during the month. This is £700 million more than the total amount borrowed in October and £800 million higher than the six month average.

Encouragingly, £8.7 billion of the overall borrowing figure was secured on property, which represents an increase of 10.3 per cent on the corresponding figures from November 2004. Dismissing claims that the market was set for a crash, this was the biggest monthly increase since July 2004, with this 16-month record reaffirming the general consensus that 2006 will be a strong year for property investment in the UK.

Property in Spain

Spanish property boom prolonged.

Sun, 15 Jan 2006 16:31:19 +0200

The property boom in Spain appears to be rolling on with house prices rising at around ten per cent last year.
The figures from Sociedad de Tasacion show that although this is the lowest increase for a few years, it is approximately in line with the average annual increase of 10.8 per cent since 1985.

The 10.1 per cent increase in property prices in Spain's provincial capitals means that it now costs 2,156 per square metre, following a 12.5 per cent increases in 2004 and a 15.8 per cent increase in 2003. Furthermore, real estate prices have risen by an average of 140 per cent in the past seven years, as Spain continues to dominate the attention of property investors in the UK and throughout the world.

Property for sale in Spain

Brits still enjoy Spain!

Sun, 15 Jan 2006 16:29:42 +0200

Spain and France remain the most popular places to visit for UK residents, according to the latest research from the National Statistics Office.Findings from the International Passenger Survey also revealed that trips to Europe accounted for over 80 per cent of visits abroad by Britons in 2004.
Spain continued to be the most popular country to take a trip to, with 13.8 million visits, whilst France was second in popularity, with 11.6 million visits.

The number of visits by UK residents to the US increased by 15 per cent in 2004 to 4.2 million, although this was still 4 per cent lower than the number in 2000.
In total the British made a record 64.2 million visits overseas, a five per cent increase on 2003, and the number of trips has almost tripled since 1984.

Property for sale in Spain

Spain set to overhaul tax system

Sun, 15 Jan 2006 16:28:37 +0200

Spain on verge of big tax cuts by next year.
Spain's economy minister has said his government is set to simply the Spanish tax system and reduce top and bottom taxes. Solbes told Spanish daily La Vanguardia that the government wanted to unify capital gains tax and reduce corporation tax from 35% to 30%. Solbes said the government wanted to restructure the tax system without losing revenues.
The tax cuts go before Spain's Parliament later this month and are expected to be implemented next year.

Property for sale in Spain

UK house prices show slight rise.

Wed, 28 Dec 2005 17:25:37 +0200

Prices seem to be picking up, government figures indicate
Annual house price inflation rose in September for the first time in six months, according to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM). In the year to September, house prices grew on average by 3.3%, up from August's figure of 2.8%. The ODPM said prices in the UK rose 0.3% between August and September, with the average property costing £186,723. Meanwhile, property website Rightmove said prices rose 0.8% in the four weeks to 12 November.

Property for sale in Spain

'Tapas effect' boosts sherry sale this Christmas

Sun, 25 Dec 2005 14:30:42 +0200

Sherry producers would like you to drink from a wine glass.
When your grandmother enjoys a few glasses of sherry this Christmas, don't for one moment think she is just being old-fashioned. Instead your granny, or other elderly relative, is in fact being pretty cutting-edge on the drinks front. Yes, after years - even decades - of sorry social exclusion, sherry is now very fashionable again. Cynics may scoff into their pints of lager, but UK sherry sales have risen strongly over the past year.
Sainsbury's says it is now selling more sherry than ever before. And more importantly for the future prosperity of the Spanish fortified wine's producers, the sales surge is being led by younger people.

Property for sale in Spain

Check and check again before buying abroad

Fri, 23 Dec 2005 13:14:04 +0200

As well as resolving to get fit next year, remember to check and check again before buying abroad

So what will your new year resolutions be for 2006? With the days of quick, easy winnings on UK property consigned to the history books, you may be one of the thousands of Britons putting an overseas property purchase on your list of things to accomplish for next year. The number of people searching for profit and pleasure overseas has been growing steadily and dinner party conversation has shifted from how much more we think our homes are worth to our bolt holes in the sun. Owning a property abroad used to be the preserve of a privileged few, but it has become the investment du jour. It seems everyone is at it: estate agents from Hastings to Hull display particulars of Spanish villas in their shop windows alongside three-bed semis down the road, and property websites have recorded huge growth in international searches.
Louise Walker, of the property website Primelocation, has certainly noted the gathering pace: This year has been the biggest year so far. We have tripled, if not quadrupled, the number of agents coming on board and we are covering more countries. People are looking for opportunities beyond our shores

Property for sale in Spain

Gordon Brown has done more harm for pensions than most politicians you can think of.

Fri, 23 Dec 2005 13:12:35 +0200

Plans to allow residential property to be held in a self-invested personal pension (Sipp) from April had generated more interest in pensions than any proposal in living memory. But, in a massive u-turn, the Chancellor has decided that if residential property is held within a Sipp the tax treatment will be so severe, it will not be worthwhile.

For once, pensions had become a hot topic, as people relished the prospect of buying property with tax relief from the Government. Yet at a stroke, in his pre-budget speech on December 5, the Chancellor managed not only to burst the dreams of those planning to buy property through their Sipp, but has probably put another nail in the pensions coffin.

Thousands of people who started the ball rolling early on their purchase have been left out of pocket too.

Property companies were heavily marketing holiday homes in the likes of Spain, France, Croatia and Bulgaria, and some people have already put down deposits to buy "off plan". Now they will either face swingeing tax bills if they go ahead, or lose their deposit if they don't and are unable to sell before completion.

Steady Increase predicted In UK Property Prices.

Tue, 20 Dec 2005 11:37:53 +0200

Steady Increase predicted In UK Property Prices.
Many experts had predicted a crash or at least a slump in UK house prices following the extraordinary rises in the last few years, but recent reports tend to agree that the next two years will see continued and steady growth.

Research from propertyfinder.com indicates a healthy property market and suggests that property investors are enthusiastic about their prospects.

Property in Spain for sale

Rural Hotel For sale in the Sierra Nevada, Andalucia, Spain

Mon, 19 Dec 2005 16:43:51 +0200

Rural Hotel - 4 x 2 bed houses, 3 bed houses set in 1,300,000m2 land with wonderful mountain views overlooking River Monachil. 3000m2 of stables (32 pure bred Andalucian horses also available). Property full of antiques all included. Wonderful pool with views to mountains. Skiing in winter, hiking, equestrian in summer
Price: 6,900,000 Euros
Ref: CF1002

Property in Spain for sale

Oil Refinery - A Sound Commercial Investment For Sale in Spain

Mon, 19 Dec 2005 16:42:08 +0200

A 50% share for sale in a Biodiesel oil refinery. The refinery is currently undertaking both oil and water treatment works, however a Government grant is in place enabling investment in new equipment to refine biodiesel from waste cooking oils.

Currently testing of refined oils is being undertaken by specialist laboratories in the United Kingdom, once accreditation is acheived and verified the neccesary licences will be issued enabling the plant to commence commercial refining of waste oils. Once accredited the refinery will be the sole facility within the European Union to hold the licences required to refine biodisel from waste cooking oils.

No further information will be released without proof of ability to purchase - Interested parties are invited to contact us via e - mail info@lemontreevillas.com or telephone 952 44 53 56.

Property in Spain for sale

How to beat Browns pension u-turn.

Mon, 19 Dec 2005 11:50:35 +0200

The chancellor has gone back on his promise to allow property to be held in a Sipp, writes Clare Francis of the Times Online.

THOUSANDS of investors were stunned last week when Gordon Brown announced a dramatic u-turn by revoking planned changes to the rules governing self-invested personal pension schemes (Sipps).
However, pension specialists said the original changes should never have been proposed in the first place as they were unsuitable for most investors and could have left them worse off.

From April 6 next year, dubbed A-Day, new pension rules take effect which have been designed to simplify the pensions regime and make it more flexible and transparent.

One of the main changes proposed by the government was that people would be able to hold anything within their Sipp, including residential property as well as more esoteric investments such as wine and art.

Research from Killik & Co, a stockbroker, found that such investments would only be suitable for those with around £500,000 or more invested in their pension. If you had less than that and bought a residential property, for example, you would find you had too much exposure to that asset class.

Property in Spain for sale

Spanish property law - MEPs call on the Commission to act

Thu, 15 Dec 2005 17:25:35 +0200

MEPs adopted a report with 550 votes in favour, 45 against with 25 abstentions on the alleged abuse of the Valencian Land Law known as the LRAU and its effect on European citizens.

Property in Spain for sale

Yorkshiremen Are Spanish Property Experts

Thu, 15 Dec 2005 17:13:57 +0200

A Survey by Spanish estate agents shows that people from Yorkshire know more about buying Spanish property than others either in the UK or Ireland.

Property in Spain for sale

1.5 million British property buyers are looking to move to Spain

Sun, 11 Dec 2005 11:26:43 +0200

The latest research indicates that, far from reaching saturation point the Costa del Sol and Andalucia is very likely to receive a continuing influx of property buyers from the UK over the next ten years - three million people say that they are "seriously considering" buying a property overseas. Of those at least 50% are thinking of buying property in Spain, with a large majority looking at Andalucia and the Costa del Sol.

But who is going to pay for the massive increase in infrastructure such as sewage treatment, gas and electricity supplies, water and telecommunications which will be needed? Why should the Spanish taxpayer foot the bill? Basic services such as hospitals, schools and public transport are sure to feel the impact of this massive increase in population.

This is why the Junta de Andalucia (provincial government) is in the process of drafting the POT - Plan for Organising the Territory. Paulino Plata, a Junta councillor has announced a budget of 4,345 million euros over the predicted next ten years of immigration boom, in order to gear up the regions infrastructure to cope with the demand. "This money, properly used will make the Costa del Sol into a space which is unique in Europe, and the ideal spot in which to take your holidays or buy your new home. We're going to make the Costa del Sol the Worlds number one holiday and retirement destination."

Vincente Granados, Director of Planning for Andalucia, said at the launch of the plan that the details are already available for public scrutiny and have been posted on the internet (currently only in Spanish). He referred to the new planning law due to become effective in April 2006 which will offer financial incentives to British second home buyers.

For the statistically minded here are a few interesting figures. in 1993 just under 900,000 Britons passed through Malaga International Airport, by the year 2004 this figure had tripled to 2.5 million. One in three visitors to the Costa del Sol comes from the UK. One in every ten "tourist euros" spent in Spain comes out of a British pocket. UK citizens paid for 4.3 million "hotel nights" in the Malaga area in 2005, in the same period Brits took 64.2 million foreign holidays - and finally 96% of UK visitors to the costa del Sol come here for "sun and sand".

Property in Spain for sale

Focus on Antequera

Sun, 11 Dec 2005 11:32:56 +0200

Antequera lies some 45 Km to the north of Malaga and is reached by taking the main A45 autovía out of the capital signposted towards Granada and Antequera, approximately 10 Km after passing the town of Casabermeja the road forks - the right hand fork goes on to Granada via the A359, we take the left hand fork which is clearly signposted for Antequera and Cordoba, we leave the autovia at Km 124 and head west for the final 10Km into Antequera itself. As we descend towards Antequera a wide valley opens up before us - this is a large plain rich in cultivation and with many typical Andalusian-style farmhouses surrounded by olive trees and cereal crops. The entrance to the town is close to La Peña de los Enamorados.

Property in Spain for sale

Property for sale in Spain - Townhouses for sale in Estepa Spain

Sat, 10 Dec 2005 16:34:06 +0200

Townhouse property for sale in Spain - Estepa - Ref: CLT277 - 57,500 Euros

This is a petite ready to move into property for sale in Spain townhouse at a bargain price in the town centre of Casariche. On the ground floor there is a lounge/diner with Andalucian tiles.

Property for sale in Spain

Property for sale in Spain - Villas for sale in Estepa Spain

Sat, 10 Dec 2005 16:32:53 +0200

Villa property for sale in Spain - Estepa - Ref: CLV17 - 140,200 Euros

A nice ready to move into villa property for sale in Spain. Access is through an Andalucian half tiled vestibule into a spacious Lounge and dinning room, a fully fitted and tiled modern kitchen and a laundry.

Property for sale in Spain

Property for sale in Spain - Villas for sale in Estepa Spain

Sat, 10 Dec 2005 16:30:02 +0200

Villa property for sale in Spain - Estepa - Ref: CLV16 - 112,500 Euros
Access to this property for sale in Spain is through double gates with two palm trees standing guard. The villa is in need of some internal reform and possible redistribution of room.

There are two double bedrooms and a single bedroom, a lounge/diner and the shower room and kitchenette are fully tiled. The windows have blinds to help keep the house cool in the summer. The outside area has a patio and room for a pool with plenty of space to make a lovely garden for you to sit and enjoy the lovely views of the surrounding countryside.

Property for sale in Spain

Property for sale in Estepa - Property for sale in Spain

Sat, 10 Dec 2005 16:22:40 +0200

Standing on a promontory overlooking the Sevillian plains, 110 kilometers from Seville proper lies the ancient town of Estepa. Due to its remarkable history the town was classified as a national heritage site in 1965. Its fascinating past goes back to prehistoric times, as can be seen in the archaeological finds as ancient as the Chalcolithic period, as well as extensive remains of the Iberian's and peoples of Asia Minor.

Property for sale in Spain

The number of Brits who own property abroad is set to double to 4.4 million

Thu, 8 Dec 2005 17:29:17 +0200

According to new research by Barclays. Five percent of those surveyed already own a home abroad (the equivalent of 2.2 million people in the UK) and a further five percent said that they are definitely going to buy a property overseas in the future. In addition, a staggering 37 percent of respondents said that they were considering a purchase abroad.

Property for sale in Spain

Land grab laws in Spain to go

Thu, 8 Dec 2005 17:29:12 +0200

New rules have been unveiled in the south of Spain designed to eliminate the problem of developers to abuse the system and take large amounts of land for themselves.

A new law being debated in Valencia could bring an end to the so called 'land grab law', which has been abused by Spanish developers for many years, to the detriment of many property investors forced to pay the prices demanded by the land owning developers.

Property for sale in Spain

Britons spending record amounts on property in Spain

Thu, 8 Dec 2005 17:25:10 +0200

The Family Spending Report has found that Britons are now spending £6 billion each year on second homes, reflecting the growing trend in property investment abroad.

The report was based on figures gathered by the Office for National Statistics survey, which pointed to an increase of £4 billion since 2002.

Property for sale in Spain

Spain takes the strain

Thu, 8 Dec 2005 17:23:16 +0200

Vast numbers of Britons who have moved to Spain over the past three decades are swamping healthcare services in the costas, according to Spanish officials and MEPs.The drain on hospitals, the drugs budget and the soaring cost of providing home care is crippling health services.

Property for sale in Spain