Property
be Ma s m t p laga ag ro ’s az pe in rty e
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The Brit architects taking Madrid by storm
October 24th - November 6th 2018
October 2018
Preserving the old...
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SEE PAGE X
Spain looks to protect its social and industrial past, with new laws guaranteeing the safety of key buildings... Se e III pa & ge IX s
SAVED: An iconic metro workshops in Madrid, while this famous photo by Capa (right) could save this key cultural building
STYLISH: Hip new wine shop wows visitors, while this spacious interior of a new development in La Reserva is tempting world’s wealthiest investors
...Celebrating the new
S XV ee I & pa XV ges III
...While a series of exciting new architectural trends are making waves in Spanish interior design
IN DEMAND T HE Costa del Sol and Barcelona are driving up demand in Spanish property. Data from Spain’s Instituto Nacional de Estadistica shows that, on an annualised basis, house prices grew 6.8% in the second quarter of 2018 with new-build price tags rising 5.7% (see report page IV). However some areas are clearly picking up more of the slack than others, with Catalunya rising 3.7% while Galicia by just 0.7%. The data is the latest confirmation of a trend of strong demand for Spanish property.
Spanish property is a hot commodity and that’s not changing anytime soon
It comes as the country is continuing impressive economic growth after being among the worst hit countries by the 2008 crisis. In 2017, the total number of home sales in Spain increased 14.6% to 464,423 units from the previous year, according to
the Instituto Nacional de Estadistica (INE). Analysts suggest a good portion of the recovery in housing is being driven by foreigners buying homes on the Costa del Sol and in cities like Barcelona. And despite Brexit, the largest number of foreign homebuyers are British, followed by the French, Germans, Belgians, Italians and Swedes. The outlook for Spain’s housing market remains upbeat, with house sales expected to rise by between 10% and 15% to reach about 550,000 transactions this year, according to TINSA, the country’s official valuation and surveying body.
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October 24th - November 6th 2018
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October 2018
Going up THE second phase of the €250 million Higueron West 217 project is one step closer to reality. Fuengirola town hall has approved the construction of up to 151 new homes on a 28,087 sqm plot of land - of which only 14,684 can be built on. Developers Urbania International must now draw up their final plans for approval before a full licence can be granted. They hope to construct five three-storey buildings plus new access roads. The first phase of the urbanisation got underway in December last year, and will comprise 77 two, three and four-bedroom luxury apartments ranging from €289,000 to €775,000.
Tall order YOU can now buy a home in the world’s skinniest skyscraper. Rising more than 1,400 feet above the ground, 111 W. 57th St. New York features a facade made from bronze and terra cotta. Its height-to-width ratio, 24:1, makes it the thinnest tower in the world. You’ll have to get saving though, with the off-plan apartments costing between $18 million and $30 million. Also known as the Steinway Tower, building is due to complete next year.
SKINNY: Tower in New York
Historic building made famous by war photographer Robert Capa set to rise from the ashes of conflict IT was the silent witness to the horrors of war. No.10 Peironcely Street in Vallecas, on the outskirts of Madrid, made it into history books thanks to a photograph Robert Capa took in the winter of 1936, in the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War.
Home of the forgotten
Rubble The candid picture shows three kids sitting on the pavement amid the rubble after the building was blasted by German bombs. Now Madrid City Council is masterminding the neglected property’s renaissance with plans to buy it from its current owner and convert it into a cultural space dedicated to that historic era. The new Capa Centre, to be
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Bridging the gap CARTAMA’S iconic bridge is set for a makeover. The town hall is bidding to take over ownership of the garish green structure from the Junta in order to smarten it up. The bridge, built in the early 1900s to connect two urban centres on either side of the Guadalhorce river, will be made ‘more aesthetically pleasing’. It will also receive structural and lighting improvements.
had been erased’, according to José Maria Uría of the trade unionist Fundación Anastasio de Gracia. But the project faces one major hurdle: the need to relocate the 14 families who still live in the rundown property. “We obviously know that this is a historical place but, for us, it’s just where we live”, said Cristina Uquillas, one of the residents who
A MEDIEVAL mosque that has remained a secret for centuries has been discovered by chance in the city centre of Toledo. Archaeologist Arturo Ruiz de Taboada was restoring a public building in calle Tornerias, thought to be a Roman cistern, when he realised it was something far different. He has now revealed a monumental Moorish building dating from between the end of the Roman and beginning of the Visigoth eras. Each outer wall is more than 12 metres in length, organised in arches, and is the first of its kind to be found inside a city. The discovery ups Toledo’s count of Moorish mosques to three. Turn to page IV for a roundup of the most impressive mosques around Spain.
Mijas magic
LEGENDARY: Famous photo by Capa (inset below) and (right) the building today
christened after the award-winning Hungarian war photographer, will ‘recover a story that
Buried treasure
lives with her mother and her two children. Others see the change more positively, since the building is infested with rats and mosquitoes and vulnerable to extreme weather. Madrid Council has defended the new protected status of the building, ‘not just for its status as an example of early 20th-century construction, but also because of its value as a testimony of historical memory’. See Working Class Heroes page IX
MIJAS continues to be a hot location after one of its newest developments announced it has already sold 90% of its plots. CLC World Resorts & Hotels said its Santa Barbara Heights project is almost sold out of its 50 two and three bedroom apartments. Most of the buyers are foreign, with a keen interest from Scandinavian markets. The news comes as the Jardines de Las Lagunas development by Bekinsa announced it will create 600 new homes, while Taylor Wimpey is splashing €125 million on extending its La Cala Golf project.
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October 2018
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October 24th - November 6th 2018
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House prices show a steady recovery, writes Mark Stucklin SPAIN’S property market is welland-truly back in business, according to the latest market reports. The SPI House Price Index Tracker plots the progress of the six mostwatched house price indices in Spain, and brings them together in the chart above. The residential property price indices were updated in Q3 2018 (all figures show latest year-on-year percentage change): •
The Ministry of Public Works (Fomento) +3.8% in the second quarter, based on official valuations
•
The National Institute of Statistics (INE) index +6.8% in the second quarter
•
The Spanish Land Registrars’ Association +10.68 in the second quarter
• •
OFFICIAL GROWTH: Government figures, by region, for the year’s first and second quarter
The Association of Spanish Notaries index -4.5% in July
•
The Idealista.com (property portal) resale asking price index +9.2% in August
•
The Tinsa index based on property valuations carried out by the company +5.6% in August
UPWARDS: There has been a very healthy rise in construction this year
Going strong As I always point out, these national indices don’t tell us anything about local markets, but they do give us some idea of where we are in the property market cycle. With the exception of the volatile index published by the notaries, which seems to go up and down like a yoyo, all of the main indices now show Spanish house prices as rising in what looks like a well-established recovery. The INE publish regional house prices changes in the last two quar-
ters, as illustrated by the following chart showing the hottest markets as Madrid, Catalonia, and the Balearics. The Spanish house price index published by Tinsa – one of Spain’s biggest appraisal companies – also shows house price changes by area, with the big cities (mainly Barcelona and Madrid) up 9.8% in May, the Mediterranean coast up 4,8%, and the Balearic and Canary Islands up 9.2%. More info at www.spanishpropertyinsight.com.
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MODERN AND ELEGANT VILLA SECOND LINE GOLF WITH PANORAMIC SEA VIEWS KSSIR-24952P Plot: 1.546 m² Build: 783 m²
2.850.000 € An exclusive luxury piece of modern art built with exquisite high standards surrounded by a beautiful garden and fantastic views to the sea throughout the villa, located in a secure and private urbanization, close to Atalaya Golf, a few minutes driving to Marbella, Puerto Banus, Estepona, and all services provided in La Alqueria. From your first steps into the house, you will enjoy lots of natural light, high ceiling and space. The basement offers lots of possibilities, as rooms available for game room, cinema room, spa or gym and garage for 4 cars. Every details has been studied about the villa, which makes it a perfect home, as the orientation offers daylight sun all day long, enjoyable from the ground floor or first floor terraces, the garden and the infinity pool, the impressive views to Atalaya Golf, the Mediter Mediterranean Sea and the Coastline to Gibraltar and Africa.
October 24th - November 6th 2018
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VI October 2018
PROPERTY
October 24th - November 6th 2018
Sevilla, Estepa - TH2802 59.800€ This lovely 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom property is full of character with true Andalucian style. Enter the property into the living room which has two lovely arches that lead to an area that is currently used as an office where we also find the staircase to the first floor.
tel: +34 952 741 525 Calle de la Villa 14, 29532, Mollina, Malaga info@inlandandalucia.com www.inlandandalucia.com
Photography is by Imagen Subliminal
Property of the Week
Design corker STYLISH: The wine racks are part of Vinas & Viandas’ design
A new hip wine shop has taken inspiration from its stock
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Leitmotiv “The circumference shape is very noticeable in the world of wine,” explained the Madrid and Santander-based studio. “It can be seen in the wooden barrels that are visible inside the cellars, in the bottles, and in the antique vaulted cellars. Therefore, the circumference introduces us into this world as the leitmotiv of the project. “The space is perceived as a sequence of wooden ribs in which the circumference shape is even more present.”
Photography is by Imagen Subliminal
Property Surveys
SHOP in Valladolid is popping corks in the world of architecture after basing its design around its main moneymaker wine bottles. Vinas & Viandas, created by Zooco Estudio, is a cave-like structure in the city centre using elements based on wine bottles and barrels. Wine racks line either side of the space surrounded by curved walls and furniture all designed to imitate the shape of wine bottles, barrels and the vaulted ceilings of old wine cellars.
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October 24th - November 6th 2018
VII 19
October 2018
...Bodega beauty Meanwhile, Rioja’s famous Marques de Riscal is celebrating 160 years in business. Located in Elciego, Alava, the award-winning 100,000sqm estate is home to the iconic Frank MIRRORS: Customers can see the design from all angles
O.Gehry building, which can only be compared to Bilbao’s Guggenheim museum. The incredible design is nestled between vineyards, tradition and hundreds of years worth of history.
CONTRASTS: Between the historic cellars and curving lines above
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October 24th - November 6th 2018
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Magnificent Hacienda on a Country Estate located in the heart of the Polo area of Sotogrande, Andalusia. This exquisite country property has a large hacienda style main house with stables and approximately 12 Ha, valued at 4.900.000 Euros and a separate, charming guest house or staff house with stables and app 1.1Ha of land valued at 750.000 Euros. 186-00294P
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Pedro Sanchez’s Socialists are keeping Spain’s working class history alive
P
EDRO Sanchez’s Socialist government is taking steps to preserve the working class history of millions of Spaniards.
October 24th - November 6th 2018
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October 2018
toiling to remember The Ministry of Culture and Sport is reforming the Historical Heritage Act of 1985 to protect the memories and history of those who toiled in
factories. Workers have fought to preserve these areas of industrial importance, with the workshops at the Metro
PROTECTED: The iconic-shaped workshops at Cuatro Caminos and (right) historic internal shot
garages of Cuatro Caminos, Madrid being a particularly high profile example. “In the ministry we consider it necessary to conserve and study them,” a government spokesman said. “These are essential testimonies to document and understand the last two centuries of our history.” Alongside a chapter on industrial heritage, Javier García Fernández, secretary to Culture Minister José Guirao, wants to introduce new provisions to protect all the laws of autonomous communities in Spain. The law changes will be seen by many as a continuation of a campaign of historical remembrance by Sanchez’s Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE). They recently sought to ‘right the wrongs’ of the Spanish Civil War by exhuming dictator General
STRIVING: Pedro Sanchez
Franco’s remains from the Valley of the Fallen in Madrid. Sanchez’s second month in office also saw him order that a Madrid house bombed by the Nazi’s and immortalised by photojournalist Robert Capa be preserved as a reminder of the war.
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October 2018
PROPERTY
October 24th - November 6th 2018
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A tale of two very British architects taking
Towering success Sotogrande-based British architect makes his mark in Madrid...
B
RITISH expat architect Mark Fenwick’s career, like his buildings, is soaring to new heights. With his business partner Javier Iribarren, the Spain-based designer’s Fenwick Iribarren firm is one of the world’s most recognised architectural firms, with a portfolio that includes Barcelona’s award-winning CornellàEl Prat football stadium and new stadia for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Now, with Madrid’s Espacio Caleido or ‘big sculpture’, as Fenwick brands
it, set to be the fifth tower in Madrid’s Business Area - the duo are embarking on one of their most ambitious projects yet. The 180-metre tower will change the capital’s skyline forever due to its unique upside-down T shape which will be the first of its kind in the world. It will hold three levels of parking, the Business Institute, a university campus and jaw-dropping views over the city and its mountain backdrop. “Everything begins with a pencil and a blank piece of paper;” explains Fen-
wick (above), who grew up in Torremolinos, but now resides in Sotogrande. The rest is ‘a lot of hard work and a bit more, a lot more than others.’ This was especially true when the financial crash of 2008 threatened to destroy everything the Brit had worked for. But the tough designer revealed he sought inspiration from the Chinese definition of ‘crisis’, represented by two symbols - one meaning danger and the other opportunity.
Crippled
ICONIC: Mark Fenwick’s 180-metre T-shaped tower, set for Madrid
WORK OF ART: Stadium design in Qatar
As much of the western world was crippled by the crash, Fenwick sought emerging markets in the Middle East. It was in Qatar where the Brit was able to forge good relations with the crown prince, negotiating the rights to construct the now iconic Cameldrome stadium. Building on that success, Fenwick Iribarren is now constructing three of the eight stadiums to be used for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
T: +34 956 793 200 E: info@sotograndesales.com www.sotograndesales.com
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XI
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October 2018
Madrid by storm
October 24th - NovemberSITTERS? 6th 2018 23 LOOKING FOR GREAT HOUSE PLANNING A HOLIDAY? Need house or pet sitters? It can be a worry preparing for a holiday. Who will care for your pets? How much do petsitters cost? At HouseSitMatch our sitters are experienced in home and pet care and they housesit for free. HOW DOES IT WORK? All new members register to join our online network. On registration we ID check everyone to ensure we know who you are, in addition we police check sitters. We charge a small fee for membership to ensure that we can afford to manage our site professionally.
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...while Norman Foster’s new opus is so transparent you can barely see it
B
RITISH ‘starchitect’ Norman Foster is making his mark in the heart of Madrid with a see-through glass box called Axis. The cube-shaped steel and glass structure will harness solar power to turn the capital’s 2.769 hours of sunshine into energy and allow trees and plants to grow indoors. The complex of shops and offices topped with an open-air sky terrace will transform a 1970s building in Plaza Colon once home to Barclays Bank into a green icon, promises the Prtzker Prize-winning owner of Foster + Partners. “Situated at one of the most important intersections in Madrid, Axis is a new landmark for the city that reflects the prestige and importance of the site,” Foster explained. “It establishes a new vision for the existing 1970s structure, stripping it back to its essence and creating a flexible, future-proof building that will endure. Its striking façade will also nurture a new identity and sense of place for the city of Madrid.” The four-storey building’s diamond-shaped glass and stainless steel façade is adapted for Madrid’s climate, pulling light, life and greenery
inside. A soaring atrium connects shops on the ground floor with the offices above, crowned by an open-air rooftop terrace and garden – a rarity in Madrid. The optimised geometry of the slightly slanted cube design responds to structural efficiency, minimising energy and material consumption. The iconic edifice – Foster’s second in the city along with the Torre Cepsa – will join other statement buildings around Plaza Colon, named after Christopher Columbus. It will sit on Paseo de la Castellana, where the neighbourhoods of modish Salamanca, Chamberi and the Centre meet, in view of a statue of the great explorer and close to the extraordinary Torres de Colon, twin towers nicknamed El Enchufe because of the pluglike structure binding them together. Axis is expected to be open by next summer.
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October 2018
PROPERTY
October 24th - November 6th 2018
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NEWLY DISCOVERED: Mosque in Toledo
As archaeologists dig up an exciting third mosque in Toledo, Laurence Dollimore discovers how Islam has enriched Spain with architecture to worship ANDALUCIA is undoubtedly the most Arab-influenced region of Spain, and almost certainly in Europe. From language to art, the Moors left an indelible mark on Spanish culture. But it is their monumental talent for elegant architecture - particu-
A-muezzin grace
larly in its places of worship - that transfixes visitors to this day. Following the news of a newly-discovered mosque in Toledo, we scanned Spain’s minaret-studded skyline to round up the most impressive mosques in the country, most of them on our own doorstep.
Almonaster Mosque, Huelva THE Almonaster mosque reveals a lot about Huelva’s Moorish history as one of the last surviving gems in the city. Built on the site of a fifthcentury Visigoth basilica, this is one of few surviving rural mosques in
the country. The mezquita has three components in a trapezoidal shape: the pillared prayer hall (Haram), the courtyard of ablutions (Sham), and the classic minaret tower for the call to prayer.
ONLOOKERS: At new Moorish ruins in Toledo
The Alcazar, Jerez de la Frontera First constructed by Andalucia’s Moorish rulers back in the 11th century, the Alcazar is is one of the lastremaining examples of Almohad architecture on the Iberian peninsula. Many centuries of history are preserved in its lofty towers and massive 4,000m walls. Climb to the top of this monumental eyrie for a bird’s eye view of the whole city.
The Mezquita, Cordoba
Mosque of Cristo de la Luz, Toledo THIS breathtaking mosque is one of the most visited in the world and it’s no wonder it’s been labelled a UNESCO World Heritage site. Packed with a forest of brickwork columns and double arches, climbing the steps of its bell tower offers stunning views of the city. The structure is regarded as one of the most accom-
plished monuments of Moorish architecture. A small Visigoth church, the Catholic Basilica of Saint Vincent of Lérins, originally stood on the site. In 784 Abd al-Rahman I ordered construction of the Great Mosque, which was considerably expanded by later Muslim rulers.
THIS square structure is one of the only mosques to remain unchanged since Moorish times. It features classic horseshoe arches with outside gardens transporting visitors one thousand years back in time. A fragment of Roman road, preserved under a glass floor, transports tourists even further back in time. The mosque’s viewing balcony offers beautiful views of the outskirts of the city.
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October 24th - November 6th 2018
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October 2018
Mosque of las Tornerías, Toledo
And here are two modern examples
BUILT in the middle of the 11th century on the foundations of Roman architecture, las Tornerias lords it over the old Muslim neighbourhood of Arrabal de Francos. The mosque continued promoting Islam in Spain well beyond the reconquest of the city by the Christian troops of Alfonso VI of León and Castile in 1085. It was in use until the early 16th century when it was deconsecrated by the Catholic Monarchs. Later it became an inn, and was also put to commercial and residential use.
King Abdul Aziz Mosque, Marbella Another mosque to be built in modern times, this Islamic place of worship was funded by Saudi Arabia in honour of their late King Fahd, one of Marbella’s wealthiest frequent visitors. It can hold over 800 people and consists of housing for the imam, a library and beautiful gardens. Every summer, billionaire Arab royals and their retinues retreat to the mosque after docking their megayachts in Puerto Banus and Marbella.
The Giralda, Sevilla The Renaissance-style bell tower of Sevilla Cathedral was originally built as a minaret under Moorish rule. Piercing the sky at a height of 104.1 metres, it has become the symbol of the city, recognised the world over. Curiously it was designed with a ramp rather than steps so that the muezzin could ride a horse to the top to recite the Adhan (call to prayer). UNESCO rightly honoured it with World Heritage status in 1987. Today it’s one of the city’s top tourist attractions.
Madrid Central Mosque
THIS new kid on the Islamic block aka Abu-Bakr Mosque can be found in Madrid’s Tetuán district. Spread over four floors, it also holds offices, a nursery, school, library, auditorium and shop. After its dedication as Waqf land - a charitable entity under Islamic law - it still took years to collect enough individual donations to construct the mosque. Finally opened in 1988, it became the first mosque in the capital since the end of the Islamic occupation in 1085.
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October 2018
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HOMESELLERS REPORT
six developments being launched every week at the moment,” explains Alexis, 34, at his office on San Pedro de Alcantara’s swanky new Boulevard. “And personally I wouldn’t consider investing in half of them. “Everyone is trying to make money, get on the bandwagon, but few developers are established and able to give cast iron guarantees. “And there are quite a few big foreign investment companies, who, when the numbers stop adding up, will simply leave. That concerns me.
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El Paraiso (New Golden Mile) - All apartments offer private plunge pools - prices from 390.000€
€
Here is a pick of the most popular developments along the coast this Autumn, according to Prime Realty, and all within the €250,000 to €500,000 price range
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My dream buys this autumn
“I would also be very wary with a few of the small ones and plenty are, quite simply, in the wrong location.” And he should know, having grown up on the coast with a developer father (more of which later), who has build dozens of homes on the Costa del Sol. In particular, he advises buyers to look at the distance to the beach, as well as the views and local infrastructure. “There are plenty of excellent choices, such as the ones by Kronos Homes, and Prime Invest, which is a really professional company with 12 developments. “The massive project in La Quinta is a very interesting one, owned by the huge Pascual milk family, finally being exploited after 30 years in the pipeline. “I also like a couple of the Bromley ones, as well as Valley Heights in La Resina, a really up and coming area.” There is actually not much of the coast that Alexis doesn’t know, with his father Igor Barbovitch having built homes and apartment blocks between Alcaidesa, near Sotogrande, all the way through to Torrox, on the other side of Malaga. “He was a key behind ‘I’m still selling figure Alcaidesa golf and worked on so many prodreams, but I’ve jects here,” continues Alexis. “He has three Masters degrees gone from selling and instilled in me a real work rooms to selling ethic.” It was through his father that he homes’ dying hotel maended up stunagement at the San Pedro beachside villas, leading contemporar college Les Roches, in Marbella. From here he got a job as manager at a hotel in the Barcelo chain, before working at a string of leading hotels, such as the Hotel Formentor, in Mallorca, where he became the youngest sub-director at the age of 26, and the five star Bobadilla Hotel, near Antequera, where the King of Spain and Brad Pitt were guests. But while he loved meeting guests, including the President of China, after 12 years he felt drained and depressed, in particular with the long and antisocial hours. He realised he’d had enough and wanted something else and as a keen follower of the stock markets he could see that the property market was finally picking up nicely. After nine months working for a local agent - where he met his current partner Alina, who was boss of listings there - the pair left and set up their own agency Prime Realty in April 2016. “We make a great team Alina gets the listings and I do the sales,” he explains. “I’m still selling dreams, but I’ve gone from selling rooms to selling homes,” he adds.
S U AV P E TO
HEN it comes to new-build developments on the Costa del Sol, few people have a clearer picture than Alexis Barbovitch and Alina Florentina at Prime Realty in Marbella. The pair have around 200 projects currently listed on their website and have personally visited and inspected every one. And there are many more out there…around 300 along the coast at present, with around a dozen new ones appearing on the market every month. “The market has gone mad and we’re seeing between two and
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Dream-life
S U AV P E TO
From selling rooms to selling homes… how Alexis Barbovitch switched from being a hotel manager to being the oracle on developments along the coast
Benahavis This is a very exclusive project with panoramic sea views prices from 475.000€
These are just some of the fantastic properties we have in our potofolio. Consult our website - primerealtymarbella.com to find your dream home
Dream team
Alina and Alexis now work out of a well located office on the San Pedro boulevard. While Alexis takes care of the sales, Alina, 29, is very much front of house, San Pedro welcoming clients apartments, and taking care one of the few ‘ur of listings. Currently training to be an interior designer, the Romanian, from Sibiu, near Brasov, has lived in Spain for nearly a decade, having spent years in Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia. Calle José Ec “She is a force to be reckoned with,” explains Alexis. “And very switched on.”
Contact Prime Realty at +34 951 468 237 m: +34 654 626 150 • c/ Jose Echegaray, local nº8, San Pedro de Alcantara, 29670, Marbella, España www.primerealtymarbella.com e: info@primerealtymarbella.com
info@
www.pr
www.theolivepress.es
October 24th - November 6th 2018
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7.4
00
€
S U AV P E TO
The coast’s top development specialists We have around 200 projects on our books Based in the centre of San Pedro de Alcántara
4.0
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€
S U AV P E TO
El Paraiso Aparments, luxury lifestyle on the outskirts of San Pedro – prices from 335.000€
4.0 00 €
S U AV P E TO
New Golden Mile Apartments, just launched this month – prices from 240.000€
Nueva Andalucia Apartments, one of the few urban developments on the coast – prices from 144.840€
Calle José Echegaray Local 8, 29670 Marbella +34 951 468 237 info@primerealtymarbella.com
www.primerealtymarbella.com Alexis Barbovitch
Operations & Marketing Director at Prime realty Marbella
Alina Florentina
Operations & Listing Director at Prime Realty Marbella
WE RETURN AGENCY COMMISSION TO THE BUYER The team at Prime Realty Marbella want to help you purchase your dream home. Therefor, and for a limited amount of time, we are refunding agency commission to all clients who buy new developments along the Costa del Sol with us for a minimum net value of 250.000€
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www.theolivepress.es
Families fir A 35% uplift in visitor predictions to the new La Reserva Beach has helped to ensure a healthy summer for Sotogrande
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HE world has been watching the leafy environs of Sotogrande this month. While a series of dramatic thunderstorms were the protagonists of day one of the Valderrama Masters, causing play to start two hours late, an influx of some of the world’s best golfers more than made up for it. All in all, it has been an incredible year for the exclusive
enclave, which sits at one end of the Costa del Sol, near Gibraltar and just 45 minutes to Tarifa and an hour from Jerez. As well as a buoyant summer in terms of visitors, there have been a number of exciting new additions to its infrastructure and commercial offering. By far the most prestigious opening was La Reserva Beach, in the heart of the
Taste of Autumn Spain
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As Halloween looms, Dining Secrets of Andalucia editor Jon Clarke reviews the food of Cristina Gutierrez, one of the region’s top female chefs at L’Olive
HE dishes come out as seductive as the sunset over the nearby Alcornocales mountains. Beautifully presented, they combine both symmetry and sensitivity in equal measures, and cheer up an otherwise rainy Monday lunchtime. So it is no surprise to discover that these are the creations of Cristina Gutierrez, one of Andalucia’s incredibly rare female head chefs. A local lass from La Linea, she leads the kitchen of five chefs (with one other woman, Maria) at the amazing L’Olive restaurant, deep in the heart of one of the region’s most privileged enclaves. This is La Reserva, in Sotogrande, a bastion of understated elegance, alongside an overriding sense of authenticity and wealth. Yet, at the seven-year-old restaurant you can happily have a more than filling lunch, with a glass of wine, for 25 euros per head. Much of this is thanks to the clever use of ingredients by Cristina, who trained in nearby San Roque, and whose charges in the kitchen are almost entirely from the local area.
Pictures by Jon Clarke
Avocado “We get plenty of our avocados from Miguel’s farm in Jimena and more veg from Guillermo and Manuel’s families in Secadero and San Martin de Tesorillo,” she tells me. Meanwhile, she has planted a few herbs outside the backdoor, including a fantastic finger lime tree from Australia, producing amazing citric fruit, which would normally set her back from 140 euros a kilo at markets in Spain. It is this attention to detail that marks out the difference in quality at La Reserva that you don’t generally find in the south of Spain. “That’s because I spent quite a few years in the north of Spain, around Pamplona,” explains the mother-of-one, whose husband is a doctor in La Linea. “The food culture is different up there, with one main exception - the quality and importance of good local ingredients. And I am really big on knowing exactly who my producers are.” She is also incredibly fussy about being seasonal and changes the menu every two or three months to reflect that. This month, for example, there are special dishes involving bluefin tuna, plus an amazing autumnal grilled octopus(both pictured left), served on a bed of new potatoes and in an exciting, creamy Peruvian ‘anticuchera sauce’(far right). And, of course, with Halloween beckoning, there are a range of appropriately witchy dishes, such as the stuffed mini pumpkin, with sweet potato, mushrooms and shavings of parmesan. There is certainly nothing vaguely ordinary about the culinary
offering at La Reserva.
Bocuse Aside from the amazing new Beach restaurant added this summer, which the Olive Press reviewed in August, there are a series of special events involving global culinary stars TIE IN: With Jerome Bocuse (right) with throughout the his famous dad year. These include Jerome Bocuse, from France’s most famous three Michelin-star restaurant Paul Bocuse, in Collonges au Mont d'Or, who is making a series of trips over for show-cooking events throughout the year. “There is actually a tie in with the Bocuse group now,” explains Sotogrande S.A. CEO Marc Topiol. “We have them involved in an advisory capacity and there is a connection with their chefs. “We will be doing a series of regular events with them and other international chefs in February, March, April and May next year.” The first link up came to fruition this month, when a team from the Bocuse stable, including Jerome, were on hand for a weekend, involving a sixdish Friday night dinner and a culinary golf event on the Saturday. The splendid six course meal was a classic Gallic tour de force, including a casserole of Breton lobster, a smoked salmon confit ‘a la Scandinave’ and Bresse chicken cooked in a bladder, with morel mushrooms. “The culinary experience at La Reserva is going to be a big growth area next year and we are trying to integrate the two restaurants,” explains Topiol, himself a keen gourmet, which is little surprise given his French roots. “We are also introducing a new farm area this autumn, where we are going to start growing our own produce. This will also involve the creation of allotments for residents to grown their own produce. “It’s a great way for children to learn about food and the environment,” he adds. In terms of Sotogrande’s general culinary offering, the port in particular goes from strength to strength. The area has never been fuller and this is very much to do with the half dozen restaurants that have opened in the Blue Marina zone, including the excellent Don Diego.
Restaurante L’Olive • Phone: 956 78 52 52 • www.lareservaclubsotogrande.com
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same name enclave, which is rapidly becoming one of the most upmarket and sought after places to live and buy in Andalucia. Dubbing itself as the ‘only private beach in Spain’, it counts on 2,800 square metres of shoreline and nearly a dozen activities for all the family, including many water sports, tennis, horse-riding and padel. Surrounded by a sea of palm trees, visitors lounge on well-appointed sunbeds
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October 2018
star luxury resorts of nearby Marbella… and it turns out it does just that. “We were amazed with the amount of visitors we had this summer,” explains Sotogrande S.A CEO Marc Topiol. “It was way beyond expectations and around 35% above our initial predictions in terms of turnover and numbers.” He continues: “The most satisfactory thing has been the number of guests from Marbella. A lot came to spend the day here with their families. “This completely backs up our concept of providing a true escape for families and La Reserva is a genuine, natural one-of-a-kind place.” It is perhaps, not a surprise, with the toll motorway taking just 30 minutes from Marbella and leading to an experience a million miles away from the congestion of Marbella in summer. While the likes of Nikki Beach and Ocean Club, as well as Puro Beach, in Estepona, discourage children, they are also slap bang next to a public beach. “Those party beaches are great for the 20 to 30-year-olds,” explains Topiol. “But we are perfect for the 30 to 45-year-olds. We are a family beach, not a party beach.”
and hammocks or hang out by the shore, dipping their feet in the cool, azure water. In the backdrop is a children’s play area alongside a pair of food trucks, while next door you’ll find the achingly stylish new restaurant, which cleverly uses wood and light and a collection of natural earthy products. With its legion of 88 staff, including nine lifeguards and a dozen chefs, it easily competes with any of the classic, five-
Marathon not a sprint The opening of the Beach at La Reserva has also galvanised the area in terms of sales. “We are seeing a lot of traction in terms of interest in plots to build in La Reserva,” confirms Topiol, who works for Orion, the huge European-based fund that acquired Sotogrande S.A from the NH Hotel Group for €225m four years ago. “Prices are incredible healthy with land going at 500 euros per metre square and upwards. “It is very different from the days of 80 to 90 euros per metre square in 2014. “But it’s a marathon, not a sprint and the prices are growing nicely.” Some of the prestigious plots alone are as high as €7m, putting them on a level with La Zagaleta in the Marbella hills and among the most expensive in Spain.
TRANQUILITY: At the beach and (above left) a La Reserva villa
BACK TO SCHOOL There have also been some exciting changes at Sotogrande school this year. It has recently been taken over by a group that runs 38 schools around the world and it has seen its pupil numbers soar over 1000 for the first time in years.
And, while there is some local scepticism that the price is justified, a trio of local agents confirmed that there are already various buyers in this bracket and that numbers of the super wealthy looking to buy in Sotogrande are up this year. One, Ben Bateman, at Holmes, confirmed that three of the most important properties in La Reserva have already been acquired and there is no doubt Sotogrande is ‘now exceeding its expectations and targeting the five-star grand luxury market’. “The prices we are achieving are exceeding that in Zagaleta or Guadalmina, which is no suprise given the infrastructure is far superior here,” he insists. “What is being done at La Reserva is bold and brave and shows a clear vision of what Orion is trying to achieve.”
CREATION: Cristina with Halloween dish
Pictures by Jon Clarke
The High Life
Don’t miss La Reserva’s special Halloween dinner on the 31st at 20:00. It will be a night full of mystery with a live show and a tasty menu (drinks included) for just € 70 pp
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The six villas being built in El Mirador, one of a handfu l of private communities in Reserva, sit in a privileged La spo architect ARK, the up to nin t with amazing views. Designed by well-known local e-bed villas balance moder n living with local authentic style. They feature indoor and out modation. Prices start at €5. door swimming pools, wine cellars and staff accom5m, with two already sold.
He continues: “While prices for homes in the Seven development are high at €13m to €20m, and Mirador from €5.5m to €11.5m, they are selling and showing there is a distinct market for such a high end familyorientated destination.”
Golden Days Fellow agent Paul Bristow, at Bristow Property Group, confirmed that the new and improved La Reserva facilities ‘have proved a huge success and, are a wonderful addition to the exclusive luxury destination that is Sotogrande’. “This, along with the increased profile that worldwide marketing is now providing, can only add to the growing reputation that Sotogrande is finally reclaiming from its golden days,” he says. He is also happy to shrug off the sceptre of Brexit, with the healthy number of European buyers holding up well. “The sales market during the summer has been active, and while the uncertainty surrounding Brexit is gradually affecting confidence in the UK market, there are many euro-based clients as attracted as ever to the area.” Fellow agent James Stewart,of Savills who helped to organise the famous Ryder Cup at Valderrama in 1997, agrees. “There is still a bit of uncertainty in the UK but if you are looking for a second home it makes little difference.” he says. “On top of that there are so many French, Belgians and Spanish buyers to pick up the slack. The Spanish, mostly from Madrid and the North, are very much back.” He continues: “Last year was our best since 2008 and this year is looking good too.”
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PROPERTY
October 24th - November 6th 2018
www.theolivepress.es
Heritage homes Whether you want to live in a Roman settlement, a Moorish citadel or a Christian stronghold, you’ll be buying into a piece of the nation’s heritage in any of these eight historic designer towns
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HEY are part of Spain’s living history - towns shaped over millennia by conquering civilisations with architectural styles that can never be repeated. Everyone from Romans to Moors and Christians have had a hand in their creation. And luckily for us, this diverse history has left dozens of
Spanish towns with their own unique design. Following our coverage of Spain’s most beautiful villages, we shine the spotlight on eight lesser-known gems singled out for their centuries-old design and benchmark architecture. If you’re house-hunting, here’s where you can invest in a piece of the nation’s history.
FORTIFICATIONS: Perfectly intact in this Pyrenees gem
Besalu, Catalunya THIS stunning town has kept much of its medieval structures in tact. The fortified citadel is laced with narrow cobbled streets that link to its iconic medieval bridge which is lit up every night.
TESTS OF TIME: Merida’s incredibly long Roman bridge and (below) temple
ICONIC: Gaudi left his mark on this quaint village
Comillas, Cantabria FEW people know that the small town of Comillas is home to an iconic Antoni Gaudi building. The El Capricho building is unique among the Barcelona architect’s work, given its Persian minaret style. Other stunning structures include the Sobrellano Palace.
Mérida, Extremadura IN case you were in any doubt that Romans once ruled Spain, a trip to Merida will set you right. Home to the best-preserved ruins in the country, the Extremadura capital boasts the Puente Romano, the longest Roman bridge ever built and still used by pedestrians today. Its 16BC Roman Theatre could accommodate almost 6,000 spectators, making it one of the biggest arenas in the world relative to that time.
PROPERTIES SELLING FAST AT THE SPANISH ESTATE AGENT ! Thinking of Selling? Get in touch with The Spanish Estate Agent – the fastest growing agency on the Costa del Sol
Phone us now on +34 951 516 905 • Properties urgently needed for eager buyers • Tap into our worldwide, award-winning marketing • Dynamic, motivated and professional sales team Come and discuss your property with our friendly sales consultants at Avenida Espana 250, Estepona 29680. Or visit our website at www.thespanishestateagent.com Email info@thespanishestateagent.com
It’s your move!
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October 24th - November 6th 2018
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Peñíscola, Valencia KNOWN as the ‘town in the sea’ - or the ‘Gibraltar of Valencia’ - no wonder hit fantasy series Game of Thrones couldn’t resist filming here. The former fishing village was used for some of the famous scenes from Mereen, and since then the visitors haven’t stopped coming. Visit the Castle of Pope Luna atop the Peniscola hill for a mindblowing 360° view. FILM SET: Peniscola in Valencia
ICONIC: Homes on the cliff edge in Cuenca
Cuenca, Castilla-La Mancha THE capital of Castilla-La Mancha is most famous for its ‘hanging houses’ built into the rocks. But this small city of around 50,000 inhabitants has other attractions. Perched
on a rocky outcrop at an altitude of 956m, it’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its wellpreserved history. The Cathedral of Our Lady of Grace was the first in
Spain built in the Gothic style while Plaza Mayor, the magnificent central square, showcases one of the country’s finest examples of Baroque architecture in its Town Hall.
Olite, Navarre
Setenil de las Bodegas, Andalucia
THIS tiny town, home to just 3,000 people, flaunts a fairytale palace that wouldn’t look out of place at Disneyland. Built over several centuries, the Palace of the Kings is a fortress consisting of two royal residences and the church of Santa Maria la Real. Its mild Mediterranean climate has also made Olite one of the capitals of Spanish wine, so make sure you sign up for a tasting tour.
PROBABLY the most unique town in Spain, much of the population of 3,000 live under a rock - and many of the rest in caves. Legend has it that Setenil was built underneath a cliff to provide shade during the sweltering summers while keeping heat in during the winter. Setenil evolved from a fortified Moorish settlement and got its name from wineries which were carved out from within the rock. Today the town produces olive oil and almonds as well as wine.
HISTORIC: The centre of Salamanca
Salamanca, Castile and León SALAMANCA is home to Spain’s oldest university, founded in the 13th century. It is actually the third oldest in the world and once schooled Miguel de Cervantes, Spain’s answer to Shakespeare. Other than its links to literary greats, this stunning city is a perfect example of old meeting new, with medieval structures intertwined seamlessly with 21st century buildings and homes. MEDIEVAL: The tiny town of Olite
FEARLESS: Homes and bars under rocks
Marbella office now open Marbella Centro Plaza Local 1. Avda. Manollete 1. 29660 Nueva Andalucia.
MIJAS COSTA
C.CCentro Atalayas
Comercial C/Viento del Sur s/n 29649 Mijas costa
+34 952 930 532 / +34 670 673 472, Mijas@fineandcountry.com, www.fineandcountry.com
Ema
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October 24th - November 6th 2018
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by mortgage broker Tancrede de Pola
The current floor clause nightmare is a sobering reminder of the importance of mortgage brokers, writes Tancrede de Pola
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PAIN’S judicial system is failing to cope with the hundreds of thousands of ‘floor clause’ cases being brought before the courts. Despite 54 specialised courts being set up across Spain - with at least one in every province - the sheer onslaught of cases is proving too overwhelming. Some 260,000 cases have been filed so far, but just under 52,000 have been concluded - a mere 20%. Many victims claim they have waited up to a year just for their cases to be admitted. The situation isn’t helped by banks, which appear to be challenging every single ruling despite losing 97% of cases. Lenders are creating a second bottleneck of appeal cases, which is ‘unjustifiably hobbling’ the system with an ‘artificial litigiousness that could easily be avoided, and which is consuming huge amounts of public resources,’ according to the head of Murcia’s High Court Miguel Pasqual
MORTGAGE THINK TANK
Lessons learned?
de Riquelme. As thousands of families continue to seek justice, it’s important to remember how they found themselves
locked into dodgy mortgage contracts. Floor clauses, which were often secretly written in, imposed a minimum
interest rate on floating-rate mortgages by setting a limit on how far they could fall in tandem with the benchmark rate.
In practice, this meant that Spanish mortgage buyers did not profit fully from the record-low interest rate which Spain enjoyed for several years. The clauses were ruled illegal by the Spanish high court in 2013. It has taken some families up to ten years to get their money back, or even get their case admitted to court. If you want to avoid such situations, the answer is simple, always hire a mortgage broker. The Finance Bureau has established links with the biggest lenders and acts as a go-between for the client and the bank – but it is important to remember that the broker is not connected to the bank - and works to find the buyer the best deal available. We also highlight any hidden fees or compulsory add-ons tucked away in the small print it is important to know exactly what is attached to your mortgage. When it comes to picking a mortgage, you pretty much have one shot to get it right. Hiring a mortgage broker is a small price to pay for peace of mind and a legal and fair contract.
To contact Tancrede for all your mortgaging needs call: 666 709 743 or for insurance queries call: 951 203 540 Email: tdp@thefinanacebureau.com The Finance Bureau Centro Commercial Guadalmina, 2nOffice No. 7 Guadalmina, 29670
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October 24th - November 6th 2018
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Airbnb Why invest in Spain? purge H Key exchanges
By FX trader Mark Rickard
ERE on the Spanish costas we have experienced a bumper five years for property sales. Today we are seeing more and more new developments stretching the length of the coast, bespoke villas, contemporary apartments and solid, commercial infrastructure to accommodate their new occupants. Despite slowing numbers of Brits (we all know why), Northern Europeans are flocking to the Costa del Sol for the usual pluses of sunshine and lifestyle, rarely matched anywhere else in Europe. However, the two perpetual and usual reasons for the attractiveness of our beloved coastline are not always the only reasons for seasoned property investors to part with their hard-earned cash. There are now plenty of other ingredients at play which are leading to a deluge of investors to hunt for property on the coast ...and they have been piling in! Much of this is thanks to banks finally starting to lend again, in a big way. Mortgages are much more readily
There is an increasing number of commercial property investors looking for a solid investment on the Costa del Sol, writes Mark Rickard
available than they were two years ago and even non-residents can expect to get up to 70% of the property’s value. Here are the key elements to a good property investment: •
Low cost of borrowing - still under 3% in Spain
•
Good LTV terms (loan to value)
•
Up to 70% for non-residents
•
Yields between five and 10%
This of course depends on occupancy and short or long term rentals. One thing for sure though, capital growth, is good and prices have been rising on the costas for the last five years consistently, and now faster than ever.
Andalucia loses out on tourist stays as the rentals giant looks to clean up its act Spain also has a decent stable economy, at present and the country has certainly benefited from its EU membership. It has helped to lead to a stable currency and an investor never wants to see his or her income depreciate by a weak exchange rate. I’m sure a seasoned agent can offer many more reasons to invest in Spain from their knowledge bank. I’m not an expert, so I’ll leave that to them. But, from what I can surmise with the elements above and in my financial capacity, the property market should remain stable for some time to come. Viva the Spanish costas!
Please feel free to contact me at Key Currency if you have any questions regarding choosing your foreign exchange broker • www.keycurrency.co.uk • Call +44 (0)1872 487 500
PROPERTY rental giant Airbnb has wiped 18,000 unregistered Andalucia holiday rentals from its books. The online platform, popular with short-stay tourists and backpackers, was forced to make the move because the properties do not comply with regulations or have a valid registration number. The property purge by the California-run company leaves the region with just 40,800 advertised holiday rentals. Tourism Registry data for Andalucia indicates that the Costa del Sol will be among the hardest hit areas of southern Spain. Airbnb said: “This unique agreement provides hosts, present and future, with the security and clarity they need to share their homes responsibly.” The rentals firm added: “After the
creation of a simplified online registration system, we have deactivated the advertisements that, as of 30 September, did not include a registration number in accordance with Andalucian tourism law.” Andalucia may have to look to alternatives to bring in tourists in the wake of those lost by the Airbnb debacle. In September the Olive Press reported that the Junta has allocated almost €10 million to develop tourism in Andalucia’s lesser visited inland areas, which could provide a necessary temporary economic boost for the region. The company also used the move to send a message to competitors, stating: "We would like to see how other platforms cooperate equally with administrations to protect and support people who share their homes responsibly."
THE PERSONAL WAY TO BUY PROPERTY IN ESTEPONA!
We are the smallest Scandinavian real estate in Estepona, but probably the most personal! Our hearts beats hard for the city we love, live and work in. We know the city, its heart rate, people, neighborhoods and surroundings. And not least – we do know the real estate market. We therefore become your personal guides and brokers when you will find your dream home here too! Please visit us in our office on Avenida España 1 in Estepona if you want to buy or sell! NICE HOUSE WITH FABULOUS SEA VIEWS R3099661 | €385 000 Bahia Dorada/Estepona Detached villa 168m2 | 3 beds | 3 baths 70m2 terrace | 360m2 garden
Please contact us for more information: Lotti +34 650 202 970 / lotti@nestbostad.com Peter +34 628 078 668 / peter@nestbostad.com Nest Bostadsmäklarna | Avenida España 1, 29680 Estepona www.nestbostad.com
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October 24th - November 6th 2018
Time’s UP La Costa A BRITISH couple are celebrating one of the biggest legal victories against a timeshare company in Spain, thanks to a local law firm. Mr & Mrs Sewell-Rutter, from Southampton won 365,000 euros against La Pinta Beach Club in Tenerife after having to remortgage their home in the UK and losing most of their life savings through dodgy contracts. The historic victory came after the judge ruled that the contracts should be deemed null and void due to perpetuity. Under Spanish Timeshare Law, weeks sold after January 5 1999 cannot be in perpetuity and not for more than 50 years. Mr Sewell-Rutter said: “We have had timeshare weeks with La Pinta for over 10 years and every year we went there, we were approached by the resales department, pressuring us to buy additional timeshares which they promised to sell at a profit.
“As a result, we lost most of our savings, having to remortgage our house and take out a bank loan. In the end we had lost a considerable amount of money.” Sharon Johnson, of Malaga-based M1 Legal ECC, acting for the Sewell-Rutters, told the Olive Press: “As far as we are aware, this is the largest timeshare victory ever achieved. “M1 made this possible due to the continuous dedication and commitment supporting this case.”
“They put so much pressure on us each time to make us part with our money that we felt quite exhausted and gave in.
M1 Legal provides legal services to support European Consumer Claims who have been subject to mis-selling and subsequent breach of statutory duties by the resort in relation to holiday ownership products and services sold transnationally. These include floating week timeshares, points-based timeshare products, holiday clubs and fractional ownerships.
For any other timeshare enquiries contact Sharon Johnson at sharon@m1legal.com
PROOF’S IN THE MAKING • 350 cases in the Spanish courts • A further 177 being prepared for submission
Real People Real Results! Club La Costa Double Victory £37,483 AWARDED Leisure Dimensions Ltd (Infiniti Club) £21,101 Awarded
Club La Costa Victory £19,674 AWARDED
Another
Anfi Beach Club Victory - £20,583 AWARDED
Call us: 951 562 550 (local) 0800 6101512 (UK)
Visit us: www.ecc-eu.com
As seen on SKY TV
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October 24th - November 6th 2018
WE BUILD YOUR DREAMS! Nordic assurance throughout the entire construction process. For over 15 years, the Nordic construction company Casas & Reformas has helped clients to create their dream homes on the Costa del Sol. With the highest focus on quality and communication, we will assist you with everything from minor renovations to new production and make sure you are in safe hands throughout the entire construction process. Our international team has a solid experience from the Spanish, English and Nordic construction industry and we speak English, Swedish, German, Finnish, Danish, Russian, French and Spanish. Together with our partners in the form of interior designers, architects and suppliers we offer a complete service for you and your project.
www.casas-reformas.com • +34 654 663 814
info@casas-reformas.com •
@casasreformas
PROPERTY www.theolivepress.es
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October 2018
watch out!
HERE’S a very strange phenomenon in the real estate industry - clients who request to view exceptional properties (for exceptional prices) they cannot possibly afford to buy. I would not say it is an epidemic, but it certainly exists with properties at a certain price level and happens more often than most people would believe. The vetting process
The standard procedure is to undertake a thorough online search regarding the client looking on Google and social media. If the client cannot be found, looks unconvincing, nine times out of ten there is a very good reason to be suspicious. Worse – if a representative of the client (who fails the criteria above), a supposed PA or agent contacts us to preview expensive houses on behalf of their boss/ client there is a very high chance the client is fake – after all unless the client is Donald Trump most clients can find the time to view a property themselves. Proof of funds would seem the easiest method to eliminate fake clients until you realise that such documents can also be faked. Most clients we have rejected return a few months (and sometimes years) later via another agent or source; fake clients never purchase so they can be in the market for literally years. Some fake clients are convincing because they use information gathered from viewings with other agents to give you the impression they are well informed luxury property buyers. The dangers of believing fakers
The problem of fake clients - why do people view houses they cannot afford?
The client may not look like they have the money but on the basis that ‘you never know’ the client is given the benefit of the doubt. I know of several cases where people have been tricked into believing a fabulous offer is real. Not only is time and money lost, potentially real clients are too since their offer is rejected as too low or they are prevented from seeing the property because it is under offer from the fake client. The Walter Mitty Syndrome So why do people do it? 99% of fake clients do it for psychological reasons. “From a psychological perspective there are a number of explanations,” explains Cristina Blanco (right), a psychologist from Hallin Mental Care Marbella. “Megalomania, or delusions of grandeur, is one possibility, and it occurs in people who believe they have, or deserve, VIP status. Perhaps they feel they belong to an elite, or dream of being part of the jet-set, and somewhere along the way daydreaming
and reality have become entwined. It’s often referred to as a Walter Mitty Syndrome.” A professional perspective Such a person would want to see a luxurious villa because subconsciously they have convinced themselves they could possibly buy it. “Low self-esteem is another possible reason why a person who feels less worthy than those who have power and wealth would want to appear able to join them and buy a grand home, and in so doing feel a little closer and more equal to the people he or she looks up to so much.” Cristina explains that this kind of inferiority complex sees people making constant comparisons with others, and it shows a certain frustration with the state of their own lives. This provokes an inability to act and try to realise their dreams, and instead they live in a world of dreams that can manifest itself by acting out the role. “It may just be curiosity, and while this is understandable, a person would have to have little in the way of normal social barriers to arrange a viewing just on the basis of that. But some do, and they believe it their right to be inquisitive in this way .” Whatever the drivers behind it, unfortunately until an app is invented that can detect fake clients it looks like we have to continue to sift the real from the wish it were real.
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New builds, architectural renovations, construction licenses and project management. Commercial and residential interior design. Design studio and construction offices / showroom Marbella centre.
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October 24th - November 6th 2018
October 2018
Black to black
Business is booming for Blackshaw with six building projects on the go and a brand new online store
IT’S all go at Blackshaw Interior Design. designer in Marbella, with their As well as working with two investors, they have own in-house building team, studio four projects currently on the go in Las Brisas, and showroom. in Marbella, as well as nearly a dozen smaller Sally herself is from Leicestershire, interior projects scattered along the coast. and was the first person in her fa“We’re very busy at the moment,” explains Sa- mily to go to university - studying lly Blackshaw, who launched her company in design - before landing a role as 2008. a shop designer for Gap, in Lon“We are the team on the ground for two fo- don. Sally has been in the interior reign investors, designing and developing their design industry for nearly two decades. construction projects, as well The key to her sucas supporting them with the full cess: “We work respectrum of interior design offerings - we are also taking care of “We always keep ally closely with our all building licences and permits”, and get fulin touch after clients filment in giving hoshe adds. mes a new purpose and functioOne of their current building prothe project is jects is a bank repossession, near nality.” finished” Santa Maria Golf, which is being “We’re not your typical design converted into a blend of Belgian studio, it’s not just cut and paste and we really care about our and Scandinavian style. client’s vision and want the best The other is a typical dated Spanish style villa from the seventies, in Las Brisas for them.” Golf, which is being transformed into a luxury “We always keep in touch after the project is villa, and will be ‘sold at a premium’. finished, they often send us pictures saying they The hard-working entrepreneur has managed still love what we did, seeing our projects livedto build an instantly recognizable brand for the in and enjoyed -- that’s a great feeling.” business that employs six designers in the heart Her latest project is a brand new website of Marbella. showing off a selection of unique pieces choThe handpicked team of designers, architects sen by Blackshaw designers and used in their and structural designers from around the world current projects. The site www.blackshawstore.com is perare capable of taking on any job. Blackshaw offers more than any other interior fect for the curious homeowner.
MODERN: Various features of the new Blackshaw developments
Contact Blackshaw Interior Design on 951 403 787 • Email info@blackshawinteriordesign.com • www.blackshawinteriordesign.com
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The Rock’s leading estate agents spread the word in the Big Smoke
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IBRALTAR international property agents EFPGRaine International have been in London this month for the ‘Property Investor and Homebuyer Exhibition’ at Excel, promoting Gibraltar as a sound place to invest, visit and live. Last month they took the same message to the NEC in Birmingham for A Place in the Sun Live and were thrilled to be joined at both expos by Ian Leyde, UK Tourism Sales Manager for HM Government of Gibraltar.
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Invaluable
Leyde, based at Gibraltar House in London, ‘does an exceptional job in the UK and worldwide of promoting Gibraltar as a tourist destination’, said EFPG chairman Tom Fraser. “Ian is an invaluable help to us at these events and his knowledge combined with his very personable character convince many of the attendees to come across and visit us here in Gibraltar and we hope to continue working closely with Ian in the future,” he added. The ‘Property Investor Show’ differs from other exhibition that EFPG attend as the most com-
WELCOMING: Two of the team man the EFPG-Raine stand at Excel in London prehensive exhibition of UK and International residential property and services in Europe. The firm sees it as the ideal place for networking and obtaining reliable and up to date
property market information as well as property to buy, catering to all levels of client from the novice to the seasoned investor. This year Gibraltar was competing with many overseas
locations including USA, Cyprus, New Zealand, Dubai and even a large contingent from Nigeria. “Both of the recent exhibitions have proved to be a great suc-
cess,” Tom explained “We have had people visit us here in Gibraltar and already we have made a couple of sales, not to mention attracted many new visitors to the Rock.”
If you are interested in marketing a property or knowing more about EFPG-Raine International they are at 15 Irish Town or visit www.efpgraine.com
Visit our office at 15A Irish Town Gibraltar, visit our website at www.efpg-raine.com or call +350 200 65065 for further information and contact details.
www.efpg-raine.com +350 200 65065
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Castillo de Locubin - Jaen
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Martos - Jaen
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