Archive for the ‘Property on the Costa del Sol’ Category

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Spanish Developers Push 4% VAT Boost

Tuesday, November 8th, 2011
Villa in Benahavis

This 7 bedroom villa in Benahavis has recently been reduced in price.

Spanish property developers have taken the government’s intended boost to their sector as welcome encouragement to the market. Many are heavily promoting the reduction in VAT – from 8% to just 4% on new properties – which is in place until the end of the year. On a property of 1m euros, this represents a saving of 40,ooo euros – certainly an incentive for what has proven to be a slow year in the new property market.

However, whilst many people dream of owning their new apartment on the Costa del Sol or a frontline golf property on one of Spain’s internationally acclaimed golf courses, it is not always the new properties which can represent the best value, and whilst the reduction in VAT must be considered, there are some very competitively priced resale properties which are being sold below their true value. International financial pressures have led to some owners  – and developers for that matter – to take along hard look at their pricing, and anyone looking to purchase property in Spain would be well advised to seize the moment.

At Livingstone Estates we currently have a number of exceptional properties being offered at prices which are considered to be be well below their true market value. Property investment is still one of the more stable and profitable investments available, especially over the longer term. and with the uncertainty across the world’s stock markets, bricks and mortar once again come to the fore.

 

Posted in Bargain Property Overseas, Costa del Sol, Investment Property in Spain, New Developments in Spain, New Developments on Costa del Sol, Property in Spain, Property on the Costa del Sol, Reduced Property | No Comments »

Top End Property Still Excellent Investment

Monday, October 17th, 2011

Luxury Property in La Zagaleta Golf & Country Club has held its value well

Where the middle and lower end of the property market has suffered, those properties at the top end of the range have managed to maintain their value during the global recession better than most.

The key factors to this are the following – firstly, the more expensive properties enjoy excellent locations. There are certain addresses which, whilst not completely recession proof, are far more resistant than others. La Zagaleta Golf & Country Club is one such address. An exclusive, gated community of luxurious individually designed homes, it is perhaps the most sought after address in Southern Spain. It houses its own golf course with Club House as well as riding stables, heliport, hunting and fishing and yet is a mere 10 minutes from the beaches of San Pedro and Puerto Banús. Properties here start in the 3-4 million euro range and some are significantly more expensive. Opulence and elegance go hand in hand – with every comfort being pampered as one would expect.

From the privileged vantage point just above Marbella’s Golden Mile – with the Marbella Club and Puente Romano 5 Star Hotels as neighbours -  Marbella Sierra Blanca overlooks the Coast. Beautifully crafted and finished properties enjoy pride of place on the foothills of the Concha mountain and a level of privacy and security which is the envy of many. Again, it is often hard to appreciate just how close to the centre of the town these properties are, and yet, at the same time, so completely independent of the daily bustle. When real estate agents talk about Location, Location, Location – it is these properties to which they refer.

Secondly, in addition to the address is the quality of the construction and finishing of these properties. Exquisite fixtures and the very best in appliances make these homes a delight for the resident. In most, every conceivable comfort is standard. And, as in most cases, quality is timeless which is why these properties hold their value well. When builders are using the best materials the end result far surpasses the description – there are, after all, marble floors and marble floors – one does not have to be a connoisseur to tell the difference.

Thirdly, the future of the area is a significant factor. One prime example of this is the Marbella Club Golf development in Benahavís where luxury villas are being constructed around the spectacular new golf course. An obvious benefit to this is that the new owner can be sure that, if they overlook part of the golf course, there is no danger of that view being spoiled in the future – not something so easily said about other new construction.

Torre Bermeja

Luxury Beachfront Property at Torre Bermeja

The same can be said about frontline beach property – the frontline is the frontline. So direct access to the beach from your luxury villa or apartment is guaranteed. An excellent example of this is Torre Bermeja, the fabulous apartment complex close top the Livingstone Estates offices. Here the 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and penthouses are close to the beach and the position they enjoy cannot be affected by any future construction.

These are just some of the factors that one should evaluate when considering investment in property at the top end of the market. The price often does truly represent the value of the property, rather than the market’s fancy. Property investment should be seen as  long term rather than as a short to medium term speculative move. Whilst there is little doubt that some investors have lost money over the past couple of years, those investing at the top end of the market and with a longer term plan will still be looking to achieve a good return on their investment.

Posted in Costa del Sol, Golf Property, Investment Property in Spain, Marbella, New Developments in Spain, Property in Spain, Property on the Costa del Sol | No Comments »

Marbella Town Hall Awaits Handover of the San Pedro Tunnel Surface

Monday, October 10th, 2011
the european commuter

The Best Ofice in the World! The new European Commuter is here to stay.

As deadline’s approach, the Marbella Town Hall is keen to gain access to the 90,000 square metres of land which forms the surface of the A7 tunnel running through San Pedro Alcántara.

The authorities have a 6 million euro fund reserved for the improvements and finishing to the area, which is due to see children’s play areas as well as gardens and walkways.

During the construction the town has been effectively split, with pedestrian access in particular affected by the disruption. But the improvements to the infrastructure will see incalculable benefits for the town once completed, with traffic moving freely along the route of the old CN340. San Pedro has had to wait for a solution to the traffic problem, but the imminent completion of the new tunnel will bring the town up to the level of other towns and cities that attract quality tourism and residential property investment.

Between the new A7 and the AP7 toll road, access to the luxury property developments is better than ever, with quick and easy access to both Malaga and Gibraltar international airports. Some of the best addresses on the coast have traditionally had accessibility issues – La Zagaleta and the Marbella Golf Golf Resort in Benahavís for example, or Monte Mayor which for some time could only be reached from a poorly kept road are now only a few minutes from motorway connections. Sotogrande and San Roque can be reached in just over an hour from Malaga Airport.

This change, coupled with the low cost of air travel between Spain and the major cities of Europe has seen the birth of the European commuter. More and more people are moving to their property on the Costa del Sol, and commuting to London, Paris or Berlin. In practical terms the commute can be less traveling from Spain to London than from Manchester. Families enjoy the climate and the lifestyle and the attraction of living in a frontline beach apartment in Marbella whilst working on the City is overwhelming. And, as improvements to the infrastructure continue, this is a trend destined to continue.

Posted in Costa del Sol, Marbella, Property on the Costa del Sol, Tourism in Spain | No Comments »

European Seniors Tour Returns to Benahavís

Tuesday, September 20th, 2011
la quinta golf

The Benahavís Senior Masters takes place at La Quinta Golf & Country Club 14th - 16th October

Underlining the significance of the Costa del Sol as a golfing centre, the European Tour returns for the third year to Benahavís in October to celebrate the Benahavís Senior Masters at La Quinta Golf & Country Club. To be played between the 14th and 16th the event draws some of the world’s most popular golfing legends – past events have seen Sam Torrance, Costantino Rocca and José María Cañizares as well as La Quinta’s course designer and resident Ryder Cup hero, Manuel Piñero – and with prize money of 180,000 euros up for grabs this year the leaderboard is sure to be filled with familiar names.

Benahavís has become a stronghold for golf with several of the coast’s more prestigious courses within its boundaries. Property developers understand the value that front line golf positions give to their properties, and some of the bigger players have chosen Benahavís as their preferred location. One of the first was La Quinta itself with apartments and villas around the three 9 hole courses, along with Los Arqueros, from British constructors Taylor Woodrow, and the stunning Monte Mayor course which winds around mountain sides further up into the hills. More recently the exclusive courses of La Zagaleta and the Marbella Club have added significantly to the area’s reputation with beautiful rolling green fairways around some of the more spectacular luxury properties to be found anywhere in Europe. Indeed, anyone with a love of country peace, natural beauty, and, of course, great golf, need look no further than Benahavís… another of the Costa del Sol’s lesser known jewels.

Posted in Costa del Sol, Golf in Spain, Golf Property, Property on the Costa del Sol | No Comments »

The Attraction of Property as an Investment

Tuesday, September 13th, 2011
property investment in spain

Property investors take another look at Spain

Over the past few years the traditional investment advice of putting money into bricks and mortar has been questioned as a safe strategy. The volatility in property prices coupled with the global financial crisis has left property investment towards the bottom of many advisers “to do” lists.

But this situation is now turning. Like so many things in the world of finance, the attraction of property investment is cyclical. And the smart investors are always a few steps ahead of the pack. Consider the factors at play. Firstly, property prices have stabilised. Certainly, compared with a couple of years ago prices appear to have not only touched bottom, they now seem to be rising, albeit slowly. Interest rates in the banks are at an all time low, so the value of any money left on deposit is being eroded by inflation.

In respect of property in Spain, and in particular, investment property on the Costa del Sol, the circumstances are further affected by the return of Spain as a premier tourist destination. Whilst the tourist market may have flirted with other, more exotic, destinations, Spain has any number of factors in its favour. Whether visitors are looking for sunshine and beaches, golf or nightlife, the Costa del Sol has it all. And, with so many other destinations presenting security issues, Spain has regained its rightful place in the hearts of visitors.

For the British investor – and indeed any of those from outside the euro-zone – the relative weakness of the euro is another contributing factor. The pound, which was languishing just above parity, has risen and stabilised around 1.16 euros. Whilst this is a long way from the headier days of 1.45 euros, it must be remembered that the reduction in property prices which has been seen over the last couple of years of around 30%, more than compensates for the difference.

With this in mind, there are certain property types that hold their prices well. The top end of the market – luxury property in the 4 – 10million euro bracket – has been remarkably stable. Properties on the golf course, and beachfront properties are generally in demand, as the supply is limited to a degree. And there are popular property developments and apartment complexes which have maintained their prices well.

As a result, many of the smart investors are looking towards property again as not only a safe bet, but one which is most likely to give returns in the medium term. Certainly compared to the stock markets, which have been more than unpredictable, the idea of owning a home in Spain becomes increasingly attractive.

 

Posted in Costa del Sol, Golf Property, Interest Rates, Investment Property in Spain, Investors in Spain, Property in Spain, Property on the Costa del Sol | 1 Comment »

Spain Halves VAT on New Properties

Monday, September 5th, 2011
New Development on the Costa del Sol

New Developments in Spain benefit from halving of VAT rates

In a recent move designed to give a boost to the Spanish property market, the  government has announced the halving of VAT on new development property from 8% to 4% until the end of the year. Whilst this only applies to new property, it is hoped that the measure will stimulate activity in what has been a slow year for the sector.

The savings can be substantial. On a property of 1m euros, the 4% difference represents 40,000 euros – which would furnish a new property nicely. So which properties are eligible?

Basically, all properties bought directly from the developer, with the purchaser being the first owner of the property. And, of course, those qualifying properties must be bought before the 31st December 2011 – so the window is fairly narrow.

At present new development property on the Costa del Sol is plentiful. There are developments on golf courses and frontline beach developments that have completed units for sale at very competitive prices. Many developers have reduced their prices over the past year and here at Livingstone Estates we have some exceptionally attractive offers on several new build properties. If, alongside these highly competitive prices, we add the further enticement of a 50% reduction in the VAT to be paid, the proposition becomes yet more appealing.

Visit our main website for details of new development property, or ask our sales team for further information.

Posted in Bargain Property Overseas, Costa del Sol, Investment Property in Spain, New Developments in Spain, New Developments on Costa del Sol, Property in Spain, Property on the Costa del Sol, Reduced Property, Spain Economy | 1 Comment »

Tax Incentives for Home Improvements

Tuesday, June 28th, 2011

The Spanish government has recently announced a new series of tax deductions available to help finance home improvements. A maximum of 1,350€ will be deductible as 20% of any home improvements within a fairly broad range of qualifying areas.

Most of the improvements which qualify for the deduction are related to renewable and new energies – thus the installation of solar panels, improvements to energy efficiency and reduction in water consumption come top of the list, but there are many other improvements which can be applied.

Many property owners on the Spanish coasts are often surprised that more advantage is not taken of the glorious sunshine that is enjoyed over 300 days a year. Indeed many new property developments on the Costa del Sol feature not just solar heating and energy but geothermal heating also.

For those who own property in Spain these tax breaks will represent an incentive to make their homes more environmentally friendly. A beachfront villa will see a good 12 hours of direct sunlight most days, and the value of harnessing this energy can be readily realised as the efficiency of energy capture improves with advancements in the technology.

 

Posted in Costa del Sol, Marbella, Property on the Costa del Sol | 2 Comments »

Málaga Airport expected to hit the 13 million visitor mark in 2011

Friday, June 17th, 2011
t3 terminal malaga airport

The new T3 Terminal at Málaga Airport is set to see 13 million visitors in 2011

The relatively new T3 terminal at Málaga Airport is seeing a steady increase in passenger numbers and expects to hit 13 million by the end of the year.

The terminal which dwarfs the Pablo Picasso Terminal is an integral part of the region’s plans for increasing tourism and commerce in the area.

With a second runway due to open later this year, these impressive figures are likely to further rise next year as the airport quickly becomes a third major hub in Spain’s air transport sector alongside Madrid and Barcelona.

For visitors to the Costa del Sol, this is excellent news. As the surrounding infrastructure improves, so too does the ease with which one can visit the area for a short break. For anyone owning a villa or apartment in Marbella or Puerto Banus the option to visit their second home in Spain for a weekend break becomes ever more attractive.

It is perfectly feasible (indeed, there are many who are doing just this) to leave the office on a Friday afternoon, and be dining in Marbella Friday evening. A round of golf on one of the Coast’s splendid golf courses on Saturday followed by a night out, and then a lazy Sunday lunch on the beach before catching the late plane home. What could be better?

And many are taking this a step further. Families from northern Europe are buying property in Spain to be used through the long school holidays. The children love the sun, the sea and the swimming pool. For many, their Costa del Sol apartment or townhouse is where the family live during the summer – Dad comes home for the weekend and flies back to the office early Monday morning.

And thanks to the new T3 at Málaga, it can take less time to get to Marbella from London than it can to get to Manchester!

Posted in Costa del Sol, Golf Property, Marbella, Property in Spain, Property on the Costa del Sol, Tourism in Spain | No Comments »

Blue Flags Flying over Málaga Beaches

Tuesday, June 7th, 2011

Málaga has regained it’s position as the Spanish Province with the most “blue flag” beaches in Spain.

The blue flags are an internationally recognised seal of approval for the cleanliness and safety of European beaches. This year sees Málaga heading the list with a total of 22 beaches flying the blue flag, one more than 2010.

As a region which depends heavily on the tourism sector, Málaga has improved the standard of its beaches consistently over the years, with regular cleaning and with the building of breakwaters to protect the quality of the sand. But perhaps the most significant changes have been the attention which has been paid to the “paseos maritimos” or promenades, in  the coastal town, as well as the careful planning which has governed the development of beachfront property.

It is now possible to walk along the promenade from Marbella to Puerto Banús, for example, around 7 kilometres, and this is soon to continue to San Pedro Alcántara. With the sea on one side and luxury beachfront apartments, private beachfront villas and five star hotels on the other, the walk captures the essence of Marbella’s Golden Mile perfectly.

For those living in frontline beach property, the quality of the beach itself is, understandably, of huge significance. The value of beachfront property is closely linked with the cleanliness and popularity of the beaches and Málaga’s continued commitment to improvement is a welcome sign to all.

Posted in Costa del Sol, Malaga, Marbella, New Developments in Spain, New Developments on Costa del Sol, Property in Spain, Property on the Costa del Sol, Tourism in Spain | No Comments »

Finca Cortesin Hosts the Volvo World Matchplay Tournament

Friday, May 20th, 2011

As if further confirmation were necessary of the Costs del Sol’s alter ego, the Costa del Golf, this weekend sees Finca Cortesin hosting the Volvo World Matchplay Tournament.

With some of the world’s greatest players competing on what is one of the relatively new championship course in the area, it is a huge endorsement of the area’s importance in the golfing world.

In a week that has seen golf, and Spanish golf in particular mourning the passing of Seve Ballesteros, it is a fitting tribute that such a major tournament is being held on the Coast.

Golf has become an incredible draw for southern Spain with entire resorts being developed around the courses. The attractions are numerous and varied, not only are more and more people enjoying the sport, but the entire golf course concept presents a special win-win situation to everyone involved.

The property market is one of the biggest winners. As the golf course weaves its way around the gently rolling hills of this stunning part of Andalucia, with the mountains as a backdrop and the Mediterranean spreading to the horizon, so there are fabulous opportunities for real estate development on the adjacent land. Not only does the frontline golf villa help to make the course itself more attractive, but for the property owner it makes for a guarantee for the future. If your Marbella property overlooks a golf course, well, it will continue to overlook the golf course and the view will be assured.

Golf property, particularly frontline golf property in Marbella, Nueva Andalucia and Sotogrande has also held its price extremely well over the past few years where other properties have been devalued. Those on the more established courses such as Valderrama,  Aloha Golf and Royal Las Brisas, are still considered prime locations and will continue to be so.

So as the world’s best golfers take up the challenge at Finca Cortesin, it is worth reflecting on the impact golf has had on the Costa del Sol – such an influence, that for many the alter ego is gaining the upper hand.

Posted in Costa del Sol, Golf in Spain, Golf Property, Investment Property in Spain, Property in Spain, Property on the Costa del Sol | No Comments »

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