Welcome to Barrington Homes

March 16, 2018

Tips when choosing a Real Estate Agent in Spain

You have made the decision to sell your property in Spain as the market is in a healthy position and agents are looking for properties for their clients/investors – so how do you choose who to work with? It all may seem very daunting the first steps to selection of an agent, so here are some ideas to help:

On-Line or Office-Based
With the power of the internet, on-line is a great way to sell your property and just pay an upfront fee. An on-line agent will advertise your property, but you will be responsible for the viewings, negotiation of sales price and dealing with the end to end process. For some people who are living in their property, this is certainly an option – but what happens if this is not your primary residence or would like more of a business transaction approach? Office-based real estate agents in Spain offer a no sale, no fee service where they will organise all the viewings, marketing, take care of the whole process for you and work with your lawyer to ensure all runs smoothly – perfect if you are not based in Spain or prefer to hand over the reins to a professional.

Make a Shortlist
Make a short list of agents who have a high-street presence and look at their window display, website, portal usage, referrals or social media. If you find the way they present properties is pleasant and the images reflect a positive image, then add them to your list. You should be able to narrow the list down to 2-3 agents and call or pop in to their offices to have a chat about your property and expectations. Established Agents are certainly going to provide you with the best service so choose agents that specialise in property sales with experience in your area.

Valuation of your Property
An experienced agent will know the marketplace, surrounding area and urbanisations, particularly ones who have a high street presence in the municipality. They will offer examples of recent sales within your area to support their valuations and other analysis/statistics to explain the market historically and at present. A good agent will take the time to explain the cost implications and the full process of selling your property from start to finish. Property is our biggest financial asset and investment so we all want to secure the best price possible but be wary of agents who ask you what you want to sell for. Your expectations may not be possible in the current market or once all the costs for selling have been explained to you.

Ask questions
From your short list, you will already have an idea of how your chosen agents will create campaigns and promotions for property. Professional agents will have a campaign map in place and will happily share this information with you. Ask questions: Do you just focus on property sales? How long have they been in business? Any prospects looking at this style of property at the moment? Do they provide performance statistics and feedback? The last thing you want is to market your property and not hear back from the agent, even if sometimes it is not good news. At the same time, be honest about your circumstances as they will have a better grasp of your objectives and timeframe.

The Agent Fee
Spain is a different marketplace to the UK and the fee varies from 5% up to 9% in some places. For this area of Spain, the industry standard appears to be 5%. Established agents collaborate and offer additional marketing services to ensure maximum coverage for your property to secure you a sale. Make a value judgment on the services and don’t assume that the cheapest is the best – it rarely works out that way.

A Team Effort
You have met with several agents and some you liked and some you didn´t but base your decision on what you have seen and heard. In Spain, sole agency is not common but an established agent will have the best network and coverage to ensure maximum collaborative coverage in and outside of the area to entice viewings. Give the agent the good news you would like them to market your property and if you have decided to be “sole agent” tell them and set your expectations with them. Working as a team you will be successful in selling your property and moving on.

May 11, 2016

The beauty of Gibraltar Airport – a short but sweet blog!

I know, you are thinking what is beautiful about Gibraltar Airport. Well, think about it this way.

1-Gibraltar_Airport_panorama
• It is 20 mins from Duquesa
• Taxi costs approx. 50 Euros each way
• It is easy to get around and all the staff are very helpful
• Pleasant cafe environment
• Great Duty Free for Drinks, Cosmetics and Perfumes
• BA flies to Heathrow
• Monarch flies to Manchester, Birmingham, Luton & Gatwick
• Easyjet flies to Manchester, Bristol, Gatwick

Imagine having your own coastal property and just a short 2 -3 hour flight with a small walk across the border to competitive rental car outlets or simply jump in a Taxi and within a short space of time, you are in your coastal home. So tell me, what is not beautiful about that?

Barrington Homes have some excellent properties to offer and in particular, we have 5 great urbanisations literally 10 minutes from Gibraltar Airport in Alcaidesa and here is a link to all 5 to have a look at.  ALCAIDESA URBANISATIONS

I could go on about the amazing Golf Courses, the beaches, the restaurants, but I don’t think I need to as I think you are already booking your flights to come and see what this part of the Costa del Sol has to offer. We look forward to seeing you very soon!

November 3, 2014

Register now for IBI reductions at Manilva Townhall !

Filed under: Duquesa Information,Useful Information — Tags: , , — Barrington Homes @ 4:46 pm

The time period is now open to apply for a reduction in IBI payment in the Manilva area for the coming year. Last year property owners enjoyed a 20% reduction in the IBI fees for those who committed to a direct debit payment plan. The Finance Officer at Manilva Townhall reported “We are pleased to have financially helped families in this town who have benefited from this initiative” This percentage reduction along with additional Townhall incentives to pay the IBI by a bank direct debit meant that an example IBI payment was reduced from 300€ in 2014 to just 174€ in 2014 ! To qualify for any discounts property owners must be up to date with all property taxes, set up any future payment by direct debit and be registered at the townhall on the ‘empadronamiento’. Interested parties can register for these IBI reductions from today until the end of December at the Manilva Townhall in Manilva Village. Documents can also be printed from the Manilva Townhall website at www.manilva.es under the documents menu option.

June 2, 2014

Spain has the most Blue Flag beaches in the World !

Filed under: Lifestyle,Nature — Tags: , , , — Barrington Homes @ 11:06 pm

A record 681 beaches in Spain have been awarded the Blue Flag beach status. The internationally recognised accolade for beach cleanliness and safety. This is more Blue Flag beaches than any other country in the world.

PICTURES JAN 08 028

Rival countries have a staggering 200 less Blue Flag beaches than Spain. The next challenger being Greece at a mere 407. Andalucia alone has 81 Blue Flag beaches and here in Manilva we are lucky enough to boast over 7km of Blue Flag beaches and the only Municipality in Andalucia that has the Blue Flag trail.

Sabinillas Beach

Sabinillas Beach

Manilvas beaches and Puerto de la Duquesa Marina are some of the best tourist attractions in Manilva. We are very proud of having such a stunning coastline to enjoy. Whether its Chiringuito beach bars, a beach party, a fun family day out or a quiet private beach cove, Manilva has something for all beach lovers. If you are looking for a beachfront property take a look at some of the best property for sale in Manilva

2playa_duquesa

August 20, 2013

Residencial Duquesa, Manilva, Costa del Sol, Spain – 4th Phase Released

The 4th phase of the popular Residencial Duquesa development was released yesterday.

Apartments for sale in Residencial Duquesa Manilva Costa del Sol Spain

This development is fantastically located within walking distance to the bars and restaurants in La Duquesa marina, the banks and shops of Sabinillas and some of the sandy beaches of the municipality of Manilva.

With Malaga International airport 1 hour away and just 30 minutes from Gibraltar Airport, it is the perfect location for holidays or full time living.

Aerial View of Residencial Duquesa Manilva Costa del Sol Spain

Prices start at just €91,200 for these modern 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartments with 100% finance optional.

For more information and details of availability please contact info@barringtonhomes.eu or call +34 952 936 216

 

 

August 11, 2013

Sotogrande Polo tournament 2013

Every summer Sotogrande, the neighbouring seaside resort to Manilva,  is the venue for one of the biggest polo tournaments of the year.  Top polo clubs from all over the world relocate to Sotogrande for the summer with their top polo horses and polo players to compete in the Bronze, Silver and Gold Cup Tournaments.

Polo Sotogrande - Santa Maria Polo Club

 

The rich, famous and royalty flock to Sotogrande to watch the exciting matches which is open to all.  Entry to watch the matches is normally free except for the Gold cup grand finale where a small entrance free is usually charged.

Below is the timetable for the rest of the matches this summer:

Sotogrande Polo - silver cup timetable

Sotogrande Polo Timetable

Sotogrande Polo Tournament - Gold Cup Timetable

Sotogrande Polo Tournament - Gold Cup Timetable

Sotogrande Polo Tournament - Gold Cup Timetable

Sotogrande Polo Tournament - Gold Cup Timetable

If you have any events within a 50 mile radius of Manilva that you would like to be promoted please email me at lucy@barringtonhomes.eu.

 

If you are looking to buy a property in Spain to live in or for holidays or are looking for a holiday home to rent short term,  please contact info@barringtonhomes.eu and a member of our team will be happy to help you.

 

 

 

 

Sotogrande celebrates its 50th anniversary

Filed under: Local Events & Culture,News — Tags: , , , , — Lucy @ 11:59 am

Last week numerous spanish celebrities flocked to the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Andalucia’s most up-market urbanization – Sotogrande.  The event was held at Sotogrande’s exclusive beach club “El Cucuracho” which is situated at the foot of the Mediterranean sea with views of Gibraltar and El Puerto Deportivo de Sotogrande.

El Puerto Deportivo Sotogrande

Over the last 50 years Sotogrande has developed into an extremely popular up-market residential development with facilities to cater for the rich and famous and even royalty.  It has a port, canal system giving access to apartments so that you can harbour your boat outside your apartment, beach clubs, top class hotels, golf clubs (including Europes no. 1 golf course Valderrama) and tennis clubs and polo clubs.

Sotogrande is located in the municipality of San Roque in Cadiz province and is Manilva’s neighbour.  From the borders of Manilva municipality there are wonderful views over Sotogrande to Gibraltar.

From Manilva border to Sotogrande and Gibraltar

If you are staying in the Manilva area, Sotogrande is well worth a visit to have lunch in the marina and to take a look at the beautiful large villas on the palm tree lined streets.  In August it is polo season and the matches are an exciting spectacle to watch.  Entry is normally free except for the grand final.  I will post dates in the next blog.

For more information on Sotogrande visit http://www.sotogrande.es/ and if you are interested in buying a property there contact info@barringtonhomes.eu and one of our agents will help you find the perfect property.

August 10, 2013

Family Fun at Manilva Fair, Costa del Sol, Spain

Manilva Feria is in full swing and there are still two nights left if you want a fun night out whilst staying in the La Duquesa area.

Manilva Fair, Costa del Sol, Spain

The atmosphere is electric with children and adults of all ages having a great night out.

Manilva Feria 2013 childrens rides

If you are crazy enough and enjoy losing your stomach and being bounced around, the Super Saltamonte is one of the most popular rides at Manilva Fair.

Manilva Fair,Super Saltamonte,  La Duquesa, Costa del Sol

If you have a head for heights and love speed then this high rocking boat gets the adrenaline going.

Manilva Feria High rocking boat, Costa del Sol, Spain

When I was younger the health and safety laws where I lived didn’t allow you to bump into each other in the bumper cars and you had to “dodgem”.  Not the case here in Manilva and they seem to go faster than ever before.  Be careful you dont get whiplash and keep your hands and legs inside the car!  Fantastic fun though.

Manilva Fair bumber cars, Costa del Sol, Spain

Why spend thousands going to Florida in America when Disney World is right here in Manilva!

Disney world Manilva, Costa del Sol, Spain

This crazy man in a dress and his train is at Manilva Feria every year.  Does anyone know if he has ever misjudged the tunnel and been knocked off?

Manilva Fair 2013 La Duquesa, Costa del sol, Spain

This dancing bull ride is great fun and popular with the kids.  Can you stay on?

Manilva Feria dancing bull ride, Costa del Sol, Spain

The kids also love dancing in this ride and trying to stay upright.

Manilva Fair,near La Duquesa, Costa del Sol, Spain

There are still two nights left of the fair including the following events:

Saturday 10th August 2013

7.30 pm Grand parade through the streets of El Castillo de La Duquesa and Sabinillas accompanied by the “Chi Chi Pom” marching band. It leaves the Castle in El Castillo de La Duquesa at 7.30 pm and La Noria in Sabinillas around 8 pm (timings approximate).

10 pm Clown performance in the children’s zone of the main pavillion.

11 pm Performance by comedian Tony Rodríguez.

Midnight Music and dance in the main pavillion to the sounds of “Costa Pop”.  This is followed by resident DJ and hits from the 80s, 90s and modern day.

Sunday 11th August 2013

10 pm Magic show in the children’s zone of the main pavillion.

11 pm Performance by comedian Jesús Tapia.

Concert by Hombres G tribute band followed by the latest sounds from the resident DJ.

If you are planning a holiday and would like to visit Manilva next summer, Barrington Holidays www.barringtonholidays.com have a large selection of properties available for holiday rental.  Please contact info@barringtonholidays.com for more information.

If you are considering buying a property in Spain to use as a holiday home or to live in, www.barringtonhomes.eu have a large selection of apartments, townhouses and villas for sale in the Manilva, La Duquesa, Sabinillas, Casares and Estepona areas.  Please contact info@barringtonhomes.eu for more information.

If you have a property in the Manilva, La Duquesa, Sabinillas, Casares and Estepona areas and are thinking of selling or renting it out for holidays, please contact info@barringtonhomes.eu to discuss your options.

 

 

 

 

August 3, 2013

Banana boat fun in La Duquesa, Manilva, Costa del Sol, Spain

If you are looking for fun and exciting things to do in the La Duquesa area then a trip on the banana boat is well worth a go.

Duquesa Activities Banana Boat Trip

Not only is it fast and exhilarating but the views of La Duquesa, Sabinillas, Manilva and Estepona from the sea are breathtaking.

A ride on the banana boat costs €20 per person but if you gather a group together and speak to Pedro at Duquesa Activities he will give you a special rate.

Duquesa Activies www.duquesaactivites.com offer a wide range of nautical activities including boat trips, fishing trips, scuba diving, kayaking, wake-boarding and the banana boat ride.  They also offer land and air based activities such as wind karting and para triking.  For more information visit their website www.duquesaactivities.com or call 664 483 599.

What activities do you like doing on holiday?

Please leave a comment below or email me at lucy@barringtonhomes.eu

A great family evening out in La Duquesa, Manilva

La Duquesa improves every year and has become a fantastic place to go out to for the evening with street entertainers, markets and a wonderful selection of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Amazing street performers in La Duquesa

There is a great atmosphere at La Duquesa Marina with different generations of families enjoying an evening out together.  The place is bustling with people browsing the market stalls or watching their children on the carousel or rides.

Summer evening in La Duquesa

There is a wonderful new “pedal powered” carousel at Puerto de La Duquesa marina ridden by Carlos who delights the little kids by passing them sweets as they spin around.

At El Castillo de La Duquesa there is a Medieval Market with  a wonderful variety of stalls offering a wide range of goods from hand made leather items to silicon iphone covers.

Medieval Market at El Castillo de La Duquesa

The Medieval Market at El Castillo de La Duquesa, Manilva, Costa del Sol, Spain

El Castillo de La Duquesa Medieval Market

Along the promenade there is a big inflatable “Bart Simpson”bouncy castle, slide and trampolines and a basketball area for the children.

Bouncy Castle fun area for children in La Duquesa

“The Simpsons” inflatable fun zone on the promenade between La Duquesa Marina and La Duquesa Castle

La Duquesa fun zone for children

If you are planning an evening out in La Duquesa I would suggest perhaps you park in the car park near  La Duquesa Castle and walk along the promenade to the Marina for a meal or even try one of the restaurants in the village of El Castillo de La Duquesa itself.

Where is your favourite place to go out to in the evening with your family and why?

Please leave a comment below or email me at lucy@barringtonhomes.eu.

If you haven’t booked your summer holiday yet and would like to visit La Duquesa,  www.barringtonholidays.com have some wonderful new properties on their books available to rent.

Please contact Jessica at info@barringtonholidays.com for more information.

 

 

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