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Right time to buy property, Costa del Sol?

IS now the time to buy in Spain? Taylor Wimpey says ‘yes’ after experiencing its best year ever in 2024. It’s not just Europeans snapping up Spanish properties, Spain has a worldwide appeal. In 2024, Taylor Wimpey sold homes to buyers from 41 different nationalities.

Across Spain, house prices continue to rise. In February 2025 alone, prices on the Costa del Sol increased by 1.6 per cent.

By the end of 2024, Taylor Wimpey

Spain had acquired land for 3,196 homes, up from 2,866 the previous year, across the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and the Balearic Islands. The company is actively seeking more land to expand its presence.

With over 65 years of experience on the Spanish Mediterranean coast, Taylor Wimpey saw signiﬁcant growth in sales, proﬁts, and overall performance despite economic challenges, reinforcing the strength of the housing market.

In 2024, the developer handed the keys over to 504 homes, a sharp rise from 410 in 2023, driven by strong demand and the company’s ability to meet buyers’ needs. Revenue surged by 34 per cent to over €225 million, with the average home price increasing to €447,000 from €411,000 in 2023.

By the end of 2024, 491 homes were reserved for delivery in 2025 and 2026, closely matching the previous year’s 490, reﬂecting continued demand and

Gardening glory

THE Costa del Sol has a sub-desert Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers, mild winters, and occasional rain in spring and autumn. Not all plants thrive here, so careful selection is essential for successful gardening.

Palm trees are a deﬁning feature of the landscape. Other well-suited trees include olive, mulberry, lemon, mimosa, ﬁg, almond, and pomegranate. Aromatic plants such as thyme, lavender, rosemary, mint, sage, and oregano add fragrance and

culinary value, while enjoying the region’s sunlight.

For low-maintenance gardens, succulents and cacti like agave, aloe, sedum, and crassula are ideal. Colourful ﬂowers such as daisies, bougainvillea, hibiscus, geraniums, and verbena brighten outdoor spaces. Instead of traditional grass, ground covers like thyme and sedum conserve water while maintaining a healthy look. Gravel is another practical option, reducing water loss and weed growth.

Trees provide shade, but

climbing plants like jasmine, honeysuckle, and wisteria can cover pergolas for extra protection and visual appeal. Cypress hedges offer privacy and year-round greenery. Windy and coastal areas require extra care, as soil dries out quickly. Windbreaks, sturdy plants, or lattice screens help protect delicate greenery. Wind-resistant plants like rosemary, hibiscus, lantana, bougainvillea, and lavender withstand harsh conditions, keeping gardens looking pretty despite the challenging climate.

conﬁdence in the company’s developments.

Taylor Wimpey’s Managing Director, Juan Diego Menéndez, described 2024 as an “exceptional year” and reafﬁrmed the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Looking ahead, the company plans to focus on acquiring more land, launching new projects, improving construction efﬁciency, increasing sales, and strengthening its reputation as a trusted homebuilder.

ESTEPONA’S real estate market is experiencing a signiﬁcant upswing, with property prices reaching an average of €4,017 per square metre as of December 2024, marking a 16.54 per cent increase since January 2024. This surge is largely driven by international investors, who accounted for 90 per cent of luxury property transactions on the Costa del Sol in 2024.

In such a dynamic market, partnering with an experienced and reputable real estate agency is crucial. Melrose Properties, established in 1984, has been a cornerstone in Estepona’s property landscape for over four decades. Their deep-rooted presence and independent operation ensure clients receive personalised service tailored to individual needs.

Melrose Properties’ intimate knowledge of Estepona’s evolving market trends enables them to offer sound investment advice. Their extensive network and diverse property

A personalised service tailored to individual needs

portfolio cater to a wide range of client preferences, from luxury villas to charming townhouses. This adaptability

Outdoor evolution

ONE of the biggest shifts in home design over the last few years has been the transformation of outdoor spaces. Gardens and terraces were mainly decorative or used for recreation and are now seen as natural extensions of the interior.

The focus is on full integration with nature. This includes vertical gardens, plant-ﬁlled terraces, and outdoor furniture made from natural materials. Chalets and single-family homes are making use of functional outdoor gardens that go beyond aesthetics, incorpora-

ting dining areas, urban vegetable patches, and dedicated relaxation spaces. In ﬂats, terraces are turning into small green havens with planters, modular furniture, and automatic irrigation systems.

Garden design in 2025 prioritises practicality, sustainability, and visual appeal. The same approach applies to facades, where natural materials like stone, wood, brick, and ceramics are commonly used for pathways, patios, walls, and furniture.

Vertical gardens and climbing plants are key

trends in outdoor decoration adding greenery, and creating a ﬂuid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Stone-clad walls, hanging planters, and green walls bring a refreshing, natural feel to exterior designs.

For garden furniture, modular and weather-resistant pieces are becoming the norm. Durable materials such as wrought iron, recycled wood, and waterproof fabrics ensure longevity while maintaining style and comfort. Outdoor spaces are now designed for year-round enjoyment.

is essential in navigating Estepona’s competitive real estate environment. Client testimonials highlight Melrose

Properties’ commitment to excellence. Their straightforward, professional advice and dedicated customer service have fostered long-term relationships, with clients repeatedly seeking their expertise for buying, selling, and renting properties.

In summary, as Estepona’s real estate market continues to ﬂourish, aligning with a seasoned agency like Melrose Properties offers invaluable advantages. Their proven track record, local expertise, and client-centric approach make them an ideal partner for navigating the opportunities within this vibrant market.

• www.melrose-properties.com

Cool savings

SUMMER will soon be upon us and summer heat can drive up electricity bills, but simple changes can help. Using energy-efﬁcient appliances, like ACs, fans, and refrigerators, saves power and money over time. Set your AC to 78°F for comfort without overuse. Fans improve airﬂow, making rooms

feel cooler. Keep AC ﬁlters clean for efﬁciency. Proper insulation, such as weatherstripping and attic insulation, keeps cool air inside.

In apartments, smart thermostats adjust temperatures based on habits, reducing waste. Avoid using ovens and dryers during peak heat; opt for microwaves or outdoor grilling instead. Open windows in the morning

Reducing hot water use also helps, lower the heater to 120°F, take shorter showers, and use low-ﬂow

Going from strength to strength

AS part of Bromley Estates Marbella’s recent expansion plan, they launched new ofﬁces in the hot spots of Elviria (Marbella) and La Cala (Mijas). The expansion into these prime locations has been well received, reﬂecting the strategic decision to target high-demand areas. Given the positive reception and the growth potential in Elviria and La Cala, Bromley Estates Marbella are focusing on expanding their customer service teams as well as their sales force, further strengthening their presence in these areas.

In addition, the newly launched rental and property management division, which is in its infancy, is already experiencing tremendous activity levels, indicating a robust demand for rental properties and management services not only in the local areas but across the Costa del Sol. Prioritising the expansion efforts in Elviria and La Cala, along with developing the rental and property management services, aligns with the continued demand from clients globally and positions Bromley Es-

tates Marbella for continued success. The Costa del Sol (Malaga) is experiencing a peak in global popularity. “Malaga is, much more than sun and beach.” According to Forbes, this Mediterranean city meets several criteria including international schools, a good health system, and proximity to airports, the cost of housing, a low crime rate and a good quality of life.

Bromley Estates Marbella offers properties for sale from private vendors, national developers, and collaborating agents on the Costa del Sol. With their solid reputation built over the years, they have outpaced the overall sales trend on the coast by sourcing only the ﬁnest properties and new developments. The luxury property management division has given their customers further peace of mind by offering a service designed to provide an effortless experience by taking care of every aspect of property management from A to Z. Bromley Estates’ goal is to alleviate any worries or work for their clients whilst ensuring a healthy

return on investment through their rental management packages. “We are excited to offer this comprehensive service to our valued customers.”

As Hayley Bromley herself also conﬁrmed; “This commitment helps our clients ﬁnd their ideal property, whether for holiday homes, permanent residences, or investments. Our extensive experience allows us to identify projects that offer the best value for money, and now manage that property into becoming a lucrative investment.”

This commitment to excellence is also the reason that Bromley Estates Marbella’s Exclusive Development branch has gone from strength to strength, due to the fact that Spain’s most reputable developers put their trust in Bromley Estates to exclusively promote their off plan projects on the Costa del Sol.

Bromley Estates Marbella most certainly offers clients the full spectrum of real estate services and they do it with love!

The Power of Colour Pond perfection

CREATING a garden pond is a rewarding project. Start by marking the shape of your pond before you begin digging. The shape is less important than the depth, cleanliness of the water, and the edges.

Next, dig the pond to the appropriate depth. For a wildlife pond, avoid making it too deep. It’s better if half of the pond is shallow, with the deep area not exceeding 30 cm. For ﬁsh ponds, the common advice is to dig deeper, but for a wildlife pond, the shallow areas are where most of the pond life will thrive.

After shaping the pond, create shallow basins. These basins will provide spaces for creatures like tadpoles and increase the habitat available for wildlife, especially if your pond is small.

Once the shape is ready, it’s time to add the liner. It’s a good idea to lay a protective underlay beneath the liner to prevent sharp objects from damaging it. Lay down a double-thick layer of underlay before adding the rubber liner. After placing the liner, you can ﬁll the pond with water. Let it ﬁll naturally with rainwater or collect it in water butts, as tap water often contains chemicals and nutrients that can harm wildlife.

Once your pond is ﬁlled, it’s ready! Wildlife will likely start to visit soon. Plants will gradually ﬁnd their way to the pond, but if you’re eager, you can add local plants.

THE living room is where we relax together. Artwork, sculptures,

Power smart

IMPROVING your home’s energy efficiency helps reduce energy use, lower electricity bills, and support a more sustainable environment. By understanding what energy efficiency means, you can take the right steps to make your home more efficient.

Energy efficiency means using less energy to perform the same tasks. A well-insulated home with efficient heating, cooling, and electrical systems minimises energy waste, leading to lower bills and a smaller environmental impact.

One way to improve energy efficiency is by ensuring your home is properly insulated. Good insulation keeps heat in during winter and out during summer, reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling.

Replacing outdated appliances with modern, energy-efficient models also helps. Newer fridges, washing machines, and water heaters consume less energy, making a noticeable difference in overall consumption.

Switching to LED lighting is another simple and effective step. LED bulbs use far less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer, reducing electricity costs over time. Smart thermostats can also help by adjusting your home’s temperature based on your schedule, preventing unnecessary energy use.

Installing motion-sensing lights ensures that lights are only on when needed, and making the most of natural daylight by opening blinds during the day reduces the need for artificial lighting.

Black Onyx by Keller Williams: Your nearby and efficient real estate partner

AT Black Onyx by Keller Williams, we prioritise proximity and efficiency. We understand that your time is valuable and that you want results. Our team focuses on providing direct, personalised, and high-quality real estate services.

A Specialised team at your service

• Xabier Lizaso: Expert in buying and selling, Xabier offers strategic advice and concrete results. His experience ensures smooth and successful transactions.

• Daniel Cano: Your personal shopper, Daniel finds the ideal property, saving you time and effort. Daniel is dedicated to simplifying your search and presenting the best options.

• Miguel Palma: Specialist in transfers, Miguel manages operations with professionalism and discretion. He ensures an efficient and confidential process.

• Felipe Paris, Darío Azria, and Manuel Collado: Sales experts, they maximise the value of your property with effective strategies. These professionals focus on obtaining the best return for you.

• Alicia Iglesias: Personalised attention in every transaction, Alicia guides and supports both buyers and sellers. Alicia is committed to providing attentive and detailed service.

• Marina Banu: Office Manager, Marina ensures operational efficiency and a smooth experience. She coordinates operations for flawless service.

• Ángel Casado: Comprehensive after-sales services,

Ángel offers security, energy studies, and more. Ángel provides solutions for your peace of mind and wellbeing.

Direct approach and results

At Black Onyx by Keller Williams, we focus on what matters: your needs. We offer a clear, concise, and results-oriented service.

• Clear communication: Direct and transparent

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information at every stage. We communicate clearly and promptly.

• Personalised attention: Solutions tailored to your specific requirements. We adjust our services to your individual needs.

• Operational efficiency: Optimised processes to save you time and effort. We streamline processes for your convenience.

More than an agency, a partner

We are not just a real estate agency; we are your trusted partner. We are dedicated to simplifying the real estate process and achieving your goals. We work alongside you to reach your objectives.

Your peace of mind is our goal

At Black Onyx by Keller Williams, your satisfaction is our priority. We strive to make your real estate experience as simple and successful as possible. Your well-being is our main concern.

Discover the Black Onyx Difference

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Malaga, Spain’s new luxury property capital

MALAGA has ﬁrmly established itself as the province with the highest percentage of luxury properties in Spain, accounting for 30 per cent of the national offering of homes priced over €2.5 million.

This is according to the latest report from Lucas Fox, a leading company in the prime residential market. The luxury segment currently represents 10 per cent of Malaga’s total real estate offerings, which include new residential complexes such as Be Grand Limonar, La Térmica Beach or Malaga Towers.

Across Spain, Malaga Province outpaces other renowned luxury destinations. For example, Mallorca holds 27 per cent of the prime property market share, Madrid has 9 per cent, and Barcelona stands at 7 per cent. Other locations like Alicante, Ibiza, Girona, Cadiz, Tenerife, and Menorca contribute signiﬁcantly less, with shares ranging from 1 per cent to 7 per cent.

A large proportion of high-net-worth individuals (57 per cent) purchase luxury properties in Malaga as second homes, followed by 29 per cent who buy them as their primary residence. Around 7 per cent of buyers are making the purchase as an investment. In terms of buyer origins, 64 per cent are from the European Union, while 21 per cent come from North America.

Malaga’s Costa del Sol is famous for its warm climate, beaches, and vibrant cultural and gastronomic offerings. However, the market faces a significant challenge: a shortage of new builds. This deficit has caused property prices to rise even more, with an average price increase of 5 per cent recorded in the first half of 2024.

Keeping it

Home decoration, both inside and out, has changed signiﬁcantly over the past two decades.

COLOUR plays a key role in design, and in 2025, warmer, more natural tones are expected to dominate. Twenty years ago, cool and metallic shades like grey, silver, and bright white were popular. Now, people are embracing colours inspired by nature, such as terracotta, mustard, deep green, warm brown, and soft blue. These tones create a calming atmosphere and strengthen the connection with the outdoors, which has become more important than ever for well-being and relaxation.

green or dark blue, which pair well with organic materials.

Bedrooms often feature soft, welcoming shades like beige, warm grey, and terracotta on the walls. Living rooms beneﬁt from earthy colours that promote a sense of tranquillity and harmony. Kitchens and bathrooms still lean towards neutral palettes but now include bolder accents, such as olive

The preference for natural materials remains strong in 2025, with an even wider variety being used indoors and outdoors. Unlike 20 years ago, when synthetic finishes and bulky furniture were common, today’s designs highlight the raw beauty of materials. Oak, walnut, and bamboo are widely used in flooring, furniture, and decorative pieces. Natural stone is also gaining popularity, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, where it complements rustic and organic finishes.

Textiles have also shifted towards sustainability. Linen and organic cotton are now favoured over synthetic fabrics, offering both eco-friendliness and superior texture.

The perfect pergola

A PERGOLA is a stylish outdoor structure made of vertical posts or pillars supporting cross-beams and an open lattice roof. Unlike gazebos, which are fully enclosed, pergolas typically have an open top. They can be decorated with climbing plants or ﬁtted with covers for extra shade and protection.

When choosing a pergola, it’s important to consider the different styles and materials available. Wooden pergolas have a natural charm but need regular maintenance to prevent weather damage. Metal pergolas, made from aluminium or steel, offer high durability.

Vinyl pergolas are low-maintenance, easy to clean, and resistant to rot, rust, and insect damage. Bioclimatic pergolas have adjustable louvres that allow you to control light and airﬂow, providing ideal comfort in all weather conditions. A pergola serves as an eye-cat-

ching focal point in a garden, offering a stylish yet practical shady area. Pergolas provide shelter from the sun and light rain, making outdoor areas more usable. Their versatility makes them a great addition to patios, gardens, and poolside areas.

When choosing the right pergola, consider the material and maintenance needs. Wood requires

upkeep, while metal and vinyl offer durability with minimal maintenance.

The size of the pergola should suit the available space, ensuring it complements the outdoor area without overwhelming it. Budget is also important, as both installation and long-term maintenance costs should be considered.

Vinyl vibes

VINYL ﬂooring is a popular and practical choice for homes and businesses. It is durable, easy to care for, and comes in a wide variety of styles, making it a great option for any renovation.

Unlike ceramic tiles, which can crack when heavy objects fall on them, vinyl ﬂooring is more resistant to damage. Laminate ﬂooring, which is less dense, may sag over time. Vinyl is easy to install with options like glue-down, drop-lock, and click-lock systems, and it doesn’t need grout, making it comfortable to walk on.

Cleaning vinyl is simple, just a damp mop and standard cleaner will do. It’s waterproof, making it perfect for areas like bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. Water won’t damage it, making it a dependable choice for these areas.

In kitchens, where spills and temperature changes are common, vinyl is hygienic. Its non-porous surface keeps dirt and bacteria from building up. It can also mimic wood or stone, ﬁtting in with any home style. In bathrooms, vinyl’s water and humidity resistance prevent warping or leaks, and its non-slip surface reduces the risk of falls. Its seamless installation gives bathrooms a clean, modern look.

For living rooms, vinyl flooring combines style and durability. It resists stains and scratches, making it a great choice for homes with pets or children. Vinyl’s tough construction stands up to heavy foot traffic in hallways, and its flexible design helps reduce noise, creating a quieter atmosphere.

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specialises in luxury resales and new developments on the Costa del Sol. Our team has deep market expertise and focuses on ﬁnding properties with the best return on investment (ROI). Whether it’s a sleek apartment, a spacious villa, or a prime investment, we provide personalised guidance every step of the way.

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Patio perks

IN spring it can still get a little chilly at night, so for those of us who enjoy the great outdoors, a patio heater could be the solution to keeping you cosy.

Patio heaters keep outdoor spaces warm but come with environmental concerns. Their impact depends on the type of energy they use, affecting emissions, efficiency, and air quality.

Propane heaters release about three kilograms of CO2 in just two hours and require frequent refuelling. Natural gas heaters burn cleaner but still rely on fossil fuels. Electric heaters are a greener option when powered by renewable energy, with infrared models being the most efficient since they directly warm people and objects instead of the surrounding air.

Gas heaters waste much of their energy as heat dissipates, using up to 108 megajoules in a few hours. Woodburning heaters release harmful pollutants, while gas models emit carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides, contributing to air pollution and climate change.

Switching to electric

infrared heaters can reduce waste and emissions. They use a fraction of the energy needed by gas models and provide targeted warmth. As climate concerns grow, choosing a more sustainable heating solution can help lower the environmental impact of outdoor heating.

Live and work anywhere

GAME-CHANGING technology is broadening home options for digital nomads and homeworkers. One of the bugbears of many working solely online has been the limitations on where precisely it’s possible. How fast and how reliable will the Internet be? How idyllic a house is has been, until now, dependent on the Internet connection for so many.

The whole point of becoming a digital nomad, after all, was all about escaping the hubbub of inner-city life. But how can one take that inner-city convenience out to the sticks and truly escape?

Today, however, Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet service, is revolutionising connectivity and unlocking new possibilities for nomads seeking both natural beauty and productivity.

Starlink’s main benefit is its reasonably

priced high-speed Internet, delivering 50 - 150 Mbps even in Spain’s remotest corners. Unlike traditional fibre, which can flop out of town, Starlink’s loworbit satellites guarantee consistent access no matter where.

If juggling video calls, cloud projects, or transferring weighty files, the reliability has led to a paradigm shift. No more panicked searches for café Wi-Fi or suffering sketchy mobile hotspots, work now flows seamlessly from a rustic finca or mountain retreat. Spain’s digital nomad visa, coupled with incentives like Extremadura’s ‘Live in Ambroz’ grant (up to €15,000), opens up options, encouraging relocation to underpopulated regions where Starlink is a godsend.

While the upfront cost of around €350 for the receiver, plus €40 per month might put off city dwellers, in Spain’s countryside, it’s priceless.

The pros and cons of buying a Spanish property

Purchasing property in Spain with cash can be an attractive option for international buyers, offering a mortgage-free transaction with fewer restrictions. However, while buying with cash has clear beneﬁts, it also comes with potential drawbacks. Understanding these factors is crucial for making an informed decision.

The pros of buying with cash

One of the biggest advantages of buying property in Spain with cash is avoiding mortgage-related costs. Without a loan, buyers eliminate interest payments, bank fees, and lengthy approval processes. This can speed up the transaction, allowing buyers to secure their dream home faster.

A cash purchase also strengthens a buyer’s negotiating position. Sellers are often more willing to accept lower offers from cash buyers due to the certainty and speed of the transaction. Additionally, without the need for mortgage approval, buyers avoid complications that could delay or derail the purchase.

The cons of a cash purchase

While a mortgage-free purchase can be advantageous, tying up a large amount of capital in a property may not always be the best ﬁnancial decision.

Cash buyers should consider whether locking up funds in real estate is the right choice or if diversifying investments would provide better long-term returns. Another consideration is liquidity. Unlike stocks or savings, property isn’t easily converted into cash. If ﬁnancial circumstances change, selling the property quickly may be challenging. Additionally, property purchases in Spain come with signiﬁcant costs beyond

the purchase price, including transfer tax (6-10 per cent depending on the region), notary fees, land registry fees, and legal fees, which typically amount to 10-15 per cent of the total cost. Managing exchange rate risks For international buyers, currency exchange ﬂuctuations can have a major impact on the overall cost of a property purchase. Sending large sums via traditional banks often results in poor

exchange rates and high transfer fees. How Currencies Direct can help Currencies Direct specialises in helping property buyers save money on international transfers. Unlike banks, which often charge high fees and offer subpar exchange rates, Currencies Direct provides competitive exchange rates, no transfer fees, and expert guidance from dedicated currency specialists.

Services such as forward contracts also allow buyers to lock in exchange rates in advance, protecting them from unexpected market changes.

With Currencies Direct, buyers can ensure their funds go further, making the overall cost of their Spanish property purchase more manageable. Pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or call +34 910 786 109 today to see how much you could save on your Spanish property purchase.

Clean mat hacks

REGULAR cleaning

of your shower mat is important for hygiene and a fresh bathroom. Over time, mats collect bacteria, mould, and mildew.

A rubber shower mat is easy to clean. Remove it from the shower, shake off any debris, and scrub it with warm water and mild detergent. Focus on stained areas, rinse thoroughly, and let it air dry completely before placing it back.

Fabric shower mats absorb moisture and require frequent washing.

Always check the care label. If machine washable, use a delicate cycle with mild detergent. If mould appears on any shower mat, a simple cleaning routine can help remove it. Spray the affected areas with a mixture of white vinegar and water, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly. Drying the mat in sunlight helps kill mould spores and keeps it fresh. For tough stains, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, let it sit for a

few minutes, then scrub and rinse. Repeat if necessary. For stubborn marks, a commercial cleaner designed for the mat’s material may be needed. Always test on a small, hidden area first. Suction cups on shower mats trap grime, so regular deep cleaning is essential. Soak the mat in warm water and vinegar for 30 minutes, then scrub around the suction cups to remove any trapped dirt. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry before reattaching it to the shower floor.

Prepare for Spain’s unpredictable weather with a Cape Reed thatched roof

LIVING on Spain’s Costa del Sol means enjoying year-round sunshine, but the region’s shifting climate patterns bring scorching summers and prolonged wet winters. Adapting your outdoor living spaces to these conditions is essential for making the most of your Mediterranean lifestyle.

Cape Reed SL specialises in creating natural, sustainable outdoor entertainment areas designed for comfort in every season. Our signature Cape Reed thatched structures provide natural shade and ventilation in summer, keeping your pergola or gazebo cool and breezy. In winter, the dense, insulating properties of Cape Reed thatch help retain warmth, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space even when temperatures drop. In fact, tests show that Cape Reed thatch offers over seven times better thermal performance than traditional roofing, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.

Beyond practicality, a thatched

entertainment area adds a unique and timeless aesthetic to your home, blending beautifully with Spain’s stunning landscapes. Durable, eco-friendly, and resistant to the elements, Cape Reed structures create the perfect setting for al fresco dining, poolside relaxation, or hosting friends and family all year round.

Upgrade your outdoor lifestyle with a bespoke, sustainable thatched structure. Contact John on 638 421 464 or john@capereed.com for a free consultation, or visit www.capereed.es for inspiration.

WHEN looking for that forever home in the sun, where to choose to invest can depend on multiple factors. The lifestyle we desire, the amount of space, and whether we are beach or countryside kind of people. However, there is much to consider when weighing up town or country.

In thriving beach towns like Estepona or Fuengirola, convenience is a bonus with little need to rely on a car. Proximity to shops, nearby healthcare, and international schools are a major plus, especially for families or retirees. Towns are buzzing with social opportunities and a strong sense of expat community. In Mijas, 40 per cent of the population are expats, which has led to a thriving social scene without the place losing its Spanish character.

Property values here appreciate steadily, offering a solid investment. However, drawbacks can include noise, crowded streets in tourist season, and higher

Town or country?

property prices. A modest townhouse in Marbella might set you back €300,000, compared to more affordable rural options.

The countryside, stretching into the hills beyond Malaga, promises tranquillity, space and a more tra -

ditional cultural experience. Expats can snap up a sprawling villa originally designed for a large extended family, or a finca even, for a lot less, often with stunning views of nature and room for pools or gardens. It’s ideal for those craving privacy or a slower

Block the bright

IF external light is disturbing your sleep, blackout or room-darkening curtains can help improve your rest.

These curtains are perfect for bedrooms, media rooms, or any space that needs light control, and they come in various materials, colours, and designs.

Blackout curtains are great at blocking out light, whether it’s from sunlight or streetlights. They also reduce outside noise and help with energy efficiency by keeping your home insulated.

Blackout curtains also protect against harmful UV rays that can fade furniture and artwork. Available in neutral tones or vibrant patterns, they suit a variety of interior styles. Materials like pencil pleated curtains and sheer fabrics provide UV protection while allowing you to control light. Besides light control, blackout curtains contribute to energy efficiency. Their thermal lining keeps rooms warm in winter and cool in summer. Their specialised coating also prevents fabric fading, ensuring long-lasting durability.

When choosing blackout curtains, consider how dark you want the room to be. Full blackout shades are best for complete darkness, while room-darkening curtains offer a softer effect. For safety, cordless blackout curtains are a smart choice for homes with children or pets.

Proper installation is key for blackout curtains to work well. The curtain rods should prevent light gaps, and the panels should be wide and long enough to cover the entire window frame. For total light blockage, measurements should extend at least 12 inches beyond the window frame on all sides.

pace, perfect for remote workers or retirees.

Lower costs (a rural three-bedroom home might cost around €200,000) raise the attractiveness. Yet, isolation is not for everyone. Limited public transport means a car is essential,

and amenities like hospitals or supermarkets may be a fair drive away. While Internet reliability can be excellent in town, it is definitely something to look into further outside urban areas. One can be taken aback by how low prices of large houses can be in rural Malaga Province. The fact is that few Spaniards like the isolation, hence the bargains. Ultimately, the decision hinges on lifestyle. Town life suits social butterflies and convenience-seekers, while the countryside is a draw for nature lovers and bargain hunters. Expats should weigh their priorities based on how they are going to be spending their time. It’s community versus calm, accessibility versus affordability. Many get carried away when they first lay eyes on a property and sign the dotted line before consulting professionals in the field. Both town and country offer that slice of paradise in the Costa del Sol, each with differing flavours.