WEEKEND WORLD Property Supplement

W

WORLD

NEWSPAPER WITH A DIFFERENCE

EEKEND

WORLD

Homes Sponsored by

PERFECT

W

EEKEND

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Read online: www.presspreferpublishing.com

PROPERTY FORTNIGHTLY SUPPLEMENT

WEEKEND WORLD PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT

Issue 32 March 30 - April 12, 2017

PROPERTY NEWS Why Buy in Spain?

Spain has a great variety of landscapes, from mountains and lakes in the north to sandy beaches, olive groves and vineyards in the south. The drive from Burgos in the northwest to Malaga in the south-east takes you through so many different panoramas; you could be forgiven for thinking you are driving through several different countries. For years the south-eastern Mediterranean coast has been one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations and is the place of choice for most British second homes. However, in recent years the north-west (Galicia) with its craggy shores on the Atlantic is attracting a large amount of attention amongst buyers looking for more rural retreats away from the tourist hubs of the Costas - at more sensible prices.

Only in the last two or three decades, and since Spain’s entry into the European Union, have things really begun to move ahead and to modernise. For those who live in the countryside however, life remains quite traditional and unchanged, blissfully so to visitors who look back to a more intimate and unspoilt village life that is long past in most countries.

People are also attracted by the relaxed and slower way of life in Spain and the culinary delights like paella and tortillas are legendary... and affordable. Overall, there are loads of reasons that Spain is the number one destination for Britons buying abroad.

Legalities Based on news stories about property buyers in Spain having their property demolished, I think it’s safe to say that buyers now realise that it’s not only imperative to get a solicitor, but it’s absolutely necessary to get a good solicitor.

Another vital factor is that you need to find a solicitor who is independent from the estate agent, developer or company showing you the properties, so that you know the solicitor is working for you and not the property professional. Some solicitors may draw up a contract of sale which is in favour of the estate agent (or end seller), and the reason behind this is quite disingenuous. By safeguarding the agent the solicitors will be assured of retaining their valuable business. Compare your one transaction to the many the solicitor stands to gain from the agent or developer and you will understand the clear conflict of interest here.

Getting Started Buying a property and living in Spain is straightforward if you are a national from another EEC (European Economic Community) country. If however, your nationality falls outside the Euro zone you may be able to buy a property but there might be time restrictions as to how long you can stay in the country. Furthermore, there are certain guidelines as to work

permits for non EEC nationals. You can find out information pertinent to you by accessing the Spanish Embassy website or through a variety of internet websites. There are also specialist emigration organisations that will often do a free consultation letting you know your options.

Finance In Spain purchase costs could be 10%+ over and above the purchase price and when considering the dramatic changes in currency exchange rates, this percentage could climb much higher. So, if your property price is £100,000 it could cost £110,000 (or more) by the time you complete and take possession of the property. It’s important from the start that you clearly understand how much a property will cost you as this will determine what price range you can look at.

While researching the Internet, attending property trade shows and emailing estate agents, start to investigate what

is included in the property price versus what gets added on. In Spain the purchase price includes the estate agency fee (usually 5%, but nowadays maybe 3%). For all property and land, 10% of the purchase price is paid as a transfer tax that goes to the Spanish Treasury. In addition, there are notary fees and a land/property registration fee, which varies according to the purchase price of the property. Also consider solicitors and mortgage fees. Solicitors usually charge 1% of the purchase price + VAT at 21%.

Make sure that you have done your homework and that you are using a reliable and trustworthy solicitor. This may include asking for personal referrals - and these must not include your developer or agent - or using specialised Spanish websites. If the solicitor does not fully comprehend English or you have any reservations at all - move on and find someone else. Your solicitor will review the sale agreement, verify titles, and carry out other checks to ensure that you’re protected.

They, or a notary, may be responsible for paying any taxes and registering the property with the land registry if this is required. Charges vary for legal and notary services but can cost around 1% to 2% of the sale value of the property. In Spain the cost is determined by the government.

You need to bear in mind that the legal system in Spain may not work in your favour if trouble strikes, so it is of paramount importance that you hire qualified people who can ensure that you do not have to take legal action. Don’t put yourself in the position of needing legal redress. You may have the law on your side but the legal system abroad can keep you tied up for years and cost a fortune. Make sure you - and your solicitor - get it right from the start and the purchase will move forward easily, most purchases in Spain do, you only hear about those that don’t.

Issue 32 March 30 - April 12, 2017

WEEKEND WORLD PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT

HomeSt yle Interiors

Italian Design

Since the opening the company has continuously offered its clients the latest trends and attractive new designs in furniture and fabrics - mostly from Italy and always in a wide choice of colours and shapes.

HomeStyle Interiors is based in welcoming and inspirational modern showroom – across two levels and over 850 square metres – located in San Pedro De Alcantara Marbella . Here customers find an exclusive selection of products by well-known Italian brands such as Antonello Italia, Miniforms, Alta corte, Santa Lucia Mobili, Veneran, Roberto Cavali, Cattelan Italia, Lass, Milano bedding and much more.

HomeStyle Interiors offers inspiring collections of furniture and home accessories that combine striking materials - hard woods, luxurious leathers, cool metals and polished glass - with designs that are both contemporary and perennial.

The collection consists of a vast assortment of furniture such as sofas, all kinds of chair, dining tables, beds, rugs and lighting and soft furnishing.

While quality, design and customer service are all fundamental to the company philosophy, refreshingly are often considerably more easily affordable than you may have thought. With impeccable credentials, the Homestyle interiors staff has extensive knowledge and experience in all facets of the furniture industry – interior design, retail, wholesale and manufacturing – on the Spanish coasts and around the world.The company is also involved in the contract business and provides a wide range of its products to clients such as hotels, cafeterias, restaurants and executive offices for the furnishing of their premises.

The company’s competitive advantage is based on a sterling reputation of highly professional service and assistance and the level of personal contact it has with clients to best ensure that their furnishing needs are anticipated and met. The philosophy of the company is to provide individual clients with furnishings that are specific to their unique requirements and tastes, and to provide solutions best-suited to their lifestyle and interiors.

At HomeStyle Interiors you will always find the finest of high quality Italian furniture for the creation of a home that is truly something special.

“From Inspiration to Installation”

AVAILABLE FROM

HomeSt yle Interiors

Italian Design

Pol. Ind. San Pedro de Alcantara, Calle Fco. Moreno Lomena nยบ 4, 29670, Marbella, Malaga Tel: 952 786 631 www.homestyleinteriors2012.com

Issue 32 March 30 - April 12, 2017

WEEKEND WORLD PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT

Sales recovery

continued in Spain in first few weeks of 2017 The recovery in the Spanish housing market has continued into 2017 while a rise in sales in places like Malaga and Alicante signal a return of foreign buyers.

T

he latest figures from the Land Registry shows that sales increased by 19% in January year on year, the biggest number of monthly sales since January 2013.

Some locations, however, are still struggling. Sales were up just 1% year on year in Costa de la Luz and the Canaries while they fell by 2% in Costa del Azahar which was driven by a 45% collapse in new home sales.

According to Mark Stucklin of Spanish Property Insight it is the highest number of recorded sales since 2008. ‘Sales in 2013 and 2011 were inflated by Government tinkering in the market. So it’s the best start to the year for sales since the boom ended,’ he said.

Overall, resales were up 21% and new home sales up 8%. Stucklin believes this is as sign that the new development collapse is slowly drawing to an end. ‘It’s a relief to see the Spanish home sales recovery continue in 2017 and the increase in Malaga and Alicante suggests to me that buyers from other nationalities are stepping in to make up for a decline in British demand brought on by Brexit,’ he added.

A breakdown of the figures show that the biggest rise in sales was in the Balearics with an increase of 40%, followed by Cantabria up 40%, Barcelona up 36%, Tarragona/Costa Dorada up 35%, the Costa Brava up 28%, Asturias up 27% and Madrid up 22%.

Sales were also strong in southern locations popular with overseas buyers with the Costa del Sol up 20% and the Costa Blanca up 17%. Stucklin pointed out that sales in these regions may have been affected by a fall in British buyers last year after the UK voted to leave the European Union.

But despite the Brexit vote, British people continued to made up the biggest proportion of foreign buyers in 2016 at 11% although down from 18% in the previous year, followed by buyers from the Middle East at 8%, up from 5% in 2015.

The number of buyers from Scandinavia has also increased, up to 7% from 4% in 2015 while buyers from France have fallen from 9% to 6% and there has been a slight rise in American buyers from 4.5% in 2015 to 5% in 2016.

Article provided courtesy of Property Wire

Issue 32 March 30 - April 12, 2017

WEEKEND WORLD PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT

Established since 2005 we specialize in Modern and Contemporary architecture.

Our philosophy is based on four fundamental pillars: • Confidence that is inspired by our team of professionals who have extensive experience.

• Quality in design, swiftness of procedures and profitability of projects.

• Respect for the environment.

• Personalized attention to each and everyone of or clients.

Project Management - Urban Planning - Construction & Reforms - Interior Design

Clean lines, open space, an emphasis on light and being at one with its surroundings are the defining characteristics of a project designed and created by Benjumea Arquitectos who are situated in the heart of Sotogrande.

Founded by father and son team; Manuel Benjumea Delgado and Antonio Benjumea Tesouro, it is a family run busy with architecture in its DNA which specializes in the creation of contemporary villas, offering a highly personalized professional service backed-up by a dedicated multidisciplinary team of architects, who above all specialize in the different fields of building and planning alongside each other. In addition they have established long standing relationships with associated specialists such as lighting engineers, electronic experts and interior designers. “Designing a modern luxurious home today requires the experience of many skilled individuals, who are specialists in the field of design,” says Antonio Benjumea Tesouro.

The business a highly successful practice operates not just in the prestigious enclave of Sotogrande but along the coastal region offering clients an unsurpassed technical skill base rooted in broad architectural experience, design flair and technical expertise. As an architect the

ethos of Antonio is that “good quality design should be integral to the development of the built environment”.

With each Benjumea Arquitectos project, we are concerned with ideas of sustainability through the use of energy harnessing technology, the choice of materials in the build, and the life-use of the building. 21st Century architecture has evolved rapidly and today architects needs to ensure they are aware of not just keeping up with the latest designs but also be aware of the environmental impact on the building project and this is what we do at Benjumea Arquitectos. When designing a project we take everything into consideration the; orientation, gradient of the land, climate and surrounding properties & of course functionality. Designing buildings that future generations will enjoy is key to our thinking” he says.

The strength of their commitment to this ethos is why Benjumea Arquitectos has been able to weather the tough years felt throughout the property sector “quality will always shine through” says Antonio, “and now in these exciting times we aim to continue pushing the case for building designs that improve the quality of our environment, and people’s lives”.

BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE TOGETHER!

Villa SRC 72 - San Roque Club Built: 573m2 Plot: 2.564m2 Energy Certification A - 3.20 kgCO2 / m2 year

BUYING Looking for a knowledgeable, approachable, service orientated Real Estate Agent?

Holmes Sotogrande is the friendly business with a long tradition of helping families make the right move.

Use our online property search tool for the largest portfolio of property for sale in Sotogrande.

Call now to take advantage of our expert knowledge to help you find your ideal home in Sotogrande.

The longest established estate agency in SOTOGRANDE

SELLING Holmes Sotogrande believes in the strength of teamwork.

Holmes Sotogrande has the team with the best reputation for results.

We are always looking for new listings. Call now for a free valuation and to hear how the Holmes team can help you best sell your home.

Your Sotogrande property market specialists www.holmessotogrande.com

+34 956 795 340

Contemporary villa / SotoGranDe alto

wonDerful home / SotoGranDe CoSta

6

5

5

Plot: 2.724m² Built: 684m²

2.200.000e Ref. HSN3-1201

3

Plot: 1.101m² Built: 533m²

1.150.000e Ref. HSS4-1091

SpeCtaCular viewS/ SotoGranDe alto

unique Style/SotoGranDe alto

7

5

7

Plot: 2.999m Built: 780m² 1.950.000e Ref. HSN5-1124 2

4

Plot: 3.575m² Built: 444m2 1.395.000e Ref. HSN1-1190

CharminG villa / SotoGranDe CoSta

BuilDinG plot / SotoGranDe alto

6

Plot: 3.450m²

6

Plot: 2.256m² Built: 450m2

1.900.000e Ref. HSS7-1139

759.000e Ref. PL530314

Noll & Partners with Stephanie Noll and Charles Gubbins, Professionals who care!

Finest properties for sale in Sotogrande - solid experience in the real estate market

Why Sotogrande?

Because of the Lifestyle

Cortijo De La Reserva Sotogrande La Reserva de Sotogrande

3

4

SALATO919

409m2

209m2

Las Terrazas De Sotogrande Sotogrande Alto

3

3

SASOSE921

210m2

300m2

650,000€

L O C AT I O N

-

Marina Townhouse For Sale Sotogrande Marina

3

3

520,000€

L O C AT I O N SASOTO913

217m2

-

L O C AT I O N

Stunning Luxury, Modern Villa, La Reserva Sotogrande Alto

4

6

700m2

595,000€

L O C AT I O N Valgraande Apartment Sotogrande Sotogrande Alto

3

4

-

248m2

info@noll-sotogrande.com +34 607 911 661 www.noll-sotogrande.com +34 607 465 383

-

L O C AT I O N

Villa Paseo Del Parque Sotogrande Sotogrande Costa

5

495,000€

3,155m2

2,700,000€

L O C AT I O N

SASOAP902

SALAMO933

3

285m2

SASOVI369

1,979m2

1,100,000€

James Stewart in association with Savills C/ Sierra Bermeja, s/n, Ed. Ayala 1, Pueblo Nuevo de Guadiaro, 11311 - Sotogrande, Cádiz T +34 956 795 300 M +34 628 574 953 info@js-sotogrande.com www.js-sotogrande.com

Punta Chullera - Villa 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • 200m2 built • 1400m2 plot • A 3 bedroom house perched on the high section of Punta Chullera facing the Mediterranean.

The current house,of excellent construction with high ceilings througout, consists on the main floor of an L shape living/dining room, kitchen and main en-suite bedroom with conservatory. Downstairs there are 2 very good size bedrooms which share a bathroom.

The location means breathtaking sea views starting at Estepona/Marbella round to the

€365,000 African coast and Rock of Gibraltar. The house is surrounded by plenty of garden with numerous sitting areas to enjoy the stunning views from. There is air conditioning in the living room and main bedroom. In addition to plenty of open parking there is a large freestanding garage. The house does need upgrading but is in good condition and has great potential to be a wonderful weekend hideaway or fulltime home.

Sotogrande Alto - Semi-detached house 4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • 244m2 built • 498m2 plot •

€498,000

Semi-detached villa of 244m2 including 33m2 of terraces situated in an exclusive urbanisation of just 24 houses. The property enjoys very spacious living accommodation on two floors and has breathtaking views over a green valley and Valderrama golf course. Downstairs is a lounge with access to a small inner courtyard on one side and a spacious porch overlooking the private garden on the other side, a large dining area, a modern fully fitted kitchen with

breakfast bar and direct access to another courtyard, a guest toilet and a bedroom with en-suite bathroom. Upstairs are 3 bedrooms of remarkable proportions, a dressing room, 2 large bathrooms and a terrace to enjoy those amazing views. Features include: automatic gate to carport with space for 2 large cars as well as a golf buggy, fully fitted alarm system, central heating, air conditioning, fireplace, sprinkler system and automatic shutters.

James Stewart in association with Savills C/ Sierra Bermeja, s/n, Ed. Ayala 1, Pueblo Nuevo de Guadiaro, 11311 - Sotogrande, Cádiz T +34 956 795 300 M +34 628 574 953 info@js-sotogrande.com www.js-sotogrande.com

Sotogrande Alto - Villa 4 berooms • 3 bathrooms • 280m2 built • 1495m2 plot • A very charming cortijo style villa designed around a central courtyard in a quiet cul-desac in Sotogrande Alto. The ground floor consists of a living room with beamed cathedral ceiling and fireplace, dining room, kitchen, 2 bedrooms with a shared bathroom and a large master bedroom suite. Upstairs is a further double bedroom suite with terrace. The garden

€695,000 is lovely as it is flat and not overlooked. There is a covered lounge area with an adjoining outdoor barbeque area. Parking is available in the garage (direct access into the villa) and driveway. Air conditioning in all bedrooms.

GAUCIN - CORTIJO 5 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms • 924m2 built • 27 hectares of land • Charming Estate, Puerto del Negro, Gaucín: 5 Bedrooms, 2 Receptions, 5 Bathrooms.

A unique opportunity to acquire a truly spectacular charming estate situated in the most beautiful location at the crest of the Jimena Valley. The Cortijo is world famous, having been for many years a private hotel, which featured in the top 101 Leading Hotels of the World.

The estate also comprises a full size tennis court (impossible to get building permission for

€1,650,000

now) landscaped gardens and a secluded swimming pool. A secluded retreat, afforded by a rural location with stunning uninterrupted views stretching to Gibraltar and as far as North Africa’s Rif mountains. Situated only a five minute drive to the old town of Gaucín, with all its amenities.

Ref: 1718

3 Townhouse Casares Costa • 3 BEDROOMS • 2 BATHROOMS

Los Cortijos de la Bahia, Casares Costa Lovely townhouse situated in a small, peaceful urbanisation between Estepona and Sotogrande, within easy reach of the beach, the village of Sabinillas and the marina of Duquesa, as well as the golf courses of Dona Julia and El Cortesin. The community is gated, with secure parking, well maintained gardens and a community swimming pool. This townhouse would make an ideal residence or a lovely holiday home.

• 105m2 BUILT • 20m2 PRIVATE TERRACE

125,000€

Ref: 1697

3 Bed Duplex Apartment Duquesa • 3 BEDROOMS • 3 BATHROOMS

Duquesa Suites, Duquesa

• 125m2 BUILT

Beautiful south facing duplex apartment with stunning sea views located on the marina and golf complex of Puerto de la Duquesa. The property is located in the well established, high quality and very secure urbanisation of Duquesa Suites, complete with mature gardens, beautiful swimming pools and padel tennis courts. Walking distance to Duquesa Port with it´s various bars restaurants and the stunning blue flag beaches. The apartment is in fine condition and includes hot and cold A/C, an alarm system, secure parking and a large storeroom. Viewing highly recommended.

• 25m2 PRIVATE TERRACE

215,000€

For more information contact: natasha@castlesestateagency.com Tel: (+34) 952 891 221 Fax: (+34) 952 892 486 C/ Isaac Peral 4, 29692 Sabinillas, Manilva, Málaga www.castlesestateagency.com

Ref: 1683

2 Bedroom Apartment Duquesa • 2 BEDROOMS

Monte Duquesa, Duquesa

• 2 BATHROOMS

A quality apartment found in the highly desirable Monte Duquesa urbanisation, a short walk from the picturesque Duquesa Marina and Golf complex situated between Estepona and Sotogrande. The apartment is close to all amenities including supermarkets, shops, tapas bars and restaurants as well as the Blue Flag Beaches and promenade that takes you to the bustling village of Sabinillas. This secure community has large, well maintained gardens and swimming pool. With low running costs this property makes either a lovely holiday home or a more permanent residence and has excellent rental potential.

• 110m2 BUILT • 12m2 PRIVATE TERRACE

145,000€

Ref: 1715

4 Bedroom Villa Duquesa • 4 BEDROOMS • 3 BATHROOMS

Ocean Golf Villas, Duquesa

• 200m2 BUILT

Ocean Golf Villas is a small development of luxurious, detached villas located on the Duquesa Hillside. Close to Duquesa Marina and the blue Flag beaches of Sabinillas, this beautiful villa is situated in a south facing, private plot and offers a superb lifestyle. This is a superb opportunity to own a beautiful detached home in a fantastic location.

• 800m2 PLOT

460,000€

For more information contact: natasha@castlesestateagency.com Tel: (+34) 952 891 221 Fax: (+34) 952 892 486 For more information contact: natasha@castlesestateagency.com Tel: (+34) 952 891 221 Fax: (+34) 952 892 486 C/ Isaac Peral 4, 29692 Sabinillas, Manilva, Málaga www.castlesestateagency.com