November 3, 2014

Spain seems to be turning a corner with more positive news about the countries economy, tourism and property sector being reported. The figures aren’t record breaking but a glimpse of good news and hints of an improving economy is big news given the crisis situation the country found itself in recent years. So jumping on the good news bandwagon here are five reminders why Spain is THE place for overseas property…

1. Convenience !
The Costa del Sol is arguably the most established destination for tourism and overseas second homes. This history has meant that the area is very convenient in terms of travel, accommodating the expat way of life and also convenient travel through established road and rail links throughout Andalucia allowing tourists to explore the varied attractions and places of natural beauty on offer here in Southern Spain. Most British airports boast direct flights to Malaga. The flight time is very comfortable and the low cost carriers and number of flights make prices very competitive. There are also currently daily flights into Gibraltar from an increasing number of UK airports. Car journeys from Gibraltar to Puerto de la Duquesa are a mere 25 minutes !

2. Spains developed market means there is something for everyone !
Spain and especially the Costa del Sol has a superb selection and range of properties. From 2 bedroom holiday homes, rustic fincas and Andalucian townhouses. There is something for everyone. Puerto de la Duquesa is an excellent up and coming market for any property investor or those looking for a holiday home in Spain. The established road links, proximity to Gibraltar for travel and work, local attractions and places its natural beauty make the Manilva area unbeatable as a place for property investment on the Costa del Sol.
Being a developed market in comparison to other lesser established ones that have gained in popularity over the last decade, Spain has established property laws and purchase procedures. The transparent property purchase procedure and clear set of property laws makes Spain an excellent choice for those looking for an overseas investment.

3. Affordability and stability
The property boom in supposedly up and coming countries turned investors heads with lures of short term gains and fantastic promises of investment and infrastructure. It has since proved to be unsustainable and the promises have not come into fruition. Bulgaria, Cyprus, Dubai and Turkey are no longer the investors choice and the property market is not established or robust enough to cope with the worldwide economic downturn.
Quality and long-term thinking have thankfully remained prominent in the majority of areas in Spain. This planning coupled with the established infrastructure has left the property market, although undoubtedly suffering from the downturn, in a strong position to bounce back once the economy recovers.

4. Established expat communities and strong Spanish culture
The Costa del Sol and surrounding areas throughout Andalucia deliver an ideal balance of traditional Spanish warmth and tradition as well as the cosy familiarity of some aspects of British life. The British and Spanish cultures although naturally greatly different work harmoniously to provide a superb way of life for those Brits looking to move or holiday in Puerto de la Duquesa. The balance of the lifestyle can be tilted to accommodate individual needs. From submerging yourself completely into the Spanish way of life to embracing all Spain has to offer when you choose, whilst maintaining the UK lifestyle, foods and social events catered specifically for expats and exclusively in the English language.

5. The weather
The weather is often the Costa del Sols main selling point and when you are swimming in the pool in October, sunbathing on your terrace in November, enjoying the comparatively light nights in December its clear to see why. It’s not simply the number of degrees but a way of life. The outdoor life, great air quality and blue skies simply boost your feel good factor and allow you to enjoy any activity you want throughout the year and spend longer outside throughout the day. Sounds basic but the difference once you live or holiday here is incredible.
Summer on the Costa del Sol is a long and glorious affair. May the temperatures start to heat up and it feels like summer is on its way. June to August is perfect with days on the beach or by the pool and warm nights spent having a BBQ or dining out in Puerto Duquesa Marina or nearby Spanish restaurants. It’s very typical for families to be out together enjoying the evening into the early hours of the morning.