Olive Press Property magazine Issue 2

Property

EDITION No. 2

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the

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the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

Buying or selling property in Spain?

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Expat buying boom

24 - Page Special

Page 8 RE/MAX Top CEO Miguel Bilbao on the huge growth of foreign buyers even flocking to Malaga City

Hidden hotspot Page 13

WONDERWALLS: This mini oasis in Benahavis with a distinct Moroccan vibe, panoramic views of Africa and four bedrooms is priced at €2.2 million with Winkworth

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Why a host of famous chefs, celebrities and supermarket tycoons are buying in Gaucin

Boom boom boy Mr Boom of Benahavis Scott Marshall reveals his master property plan with 20-something websites

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HOMESELLERS REPORT

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Page 7 Contact our Marbella Office: Avda De Manolete, Centro Plaza Local 12-13, Nueva Andalucia, 29660, Marbella, Malaga

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Property

22 22the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

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Exciting times indeed for the Spanish property market WELCOME to the second edition of the Olive Press’s growing bi-monthly Property magazine.

And what a fabulous couple of months it has been for the Spanish property market.

In particular the Costa del Sol, the Costa de la Luz and nearby inland areas, are seeing spectacular growth.

A number of our collaborating agents have seen their best April on record, some selling around 20 properties in a month!

And the knock on effect is huge: with more people buying - particularly the British - this means more work for lawyers, architects, surveyors and builders.

Next it will be the interior designers and furniture stores and soon it won’t just be the sun cheering us up… but the very real feeling of the economy finally picking up.

And how we deserve it. All those dark years scrabbling around, repossessions soaring, paycheques down and companies folding.

Finally, all those hard-working and decent expat busi-

nesses are getting just rewards for their hard work and patience in la crisis.

We hope you enjoy this issue of the Property magazine.

Aside from up-to-the-minute analysis from our specialists including Mark Stucklin, Peter Bowerman and Miguel Bilbao, we interview long-established Benahavis agent Scott Marshall and visit Fastighetsbyran’s stunning new Estepona office.

Then there is the focus on the coast’s prestigious LPA group, a visit to the classic white village of Gaucin, where the Sainsbury family has just bought, and a feature on an amazing rural estate in Almeria.

Yes, the Olive Press always works hard to ensure our readers are spoilt with interesting and varied copy, which in turn helps our advertisers to get noticed.

Send your feedback to me at jon@theolivepress. es or contact 951273575.

Jon Clarke, Publisher

Don’t flap over Cameron win Property expert Mark Stucklin (right) is convinced that a Conservative election win is excellent news for the Spanish property market… even with an in-out referendum on the horizon

I

F the flapping of a butterfly’s wings in Brazil can set off a Tornado in Texas, as Chaos theory suggests, then what does the surprise Conservative victory in the UK elections mean for property on the Costa del Sol​,​where the British are the biggest group of buyers after the Spanish? ​It’s not a trivial question.

Last year the British comprised 17% of foreign demand for property in Spain - the biggest group of foreign buyers by a wide margin and growing ​fast...up nearly 30% last year.

Around 25% of British buyers head for Andalucia’s Malaga province, home to the Costa del Sol, so British demand is crucial to the local property market.

As I see it, there are two main ways in which the UK election result affects British demand for property in Spain:

COSTA FAN: David Cameron has visited at least three times

mand is the in-out referendum Cameron promised​on EU membership promised by 2017.

Would leaving the EU reduce The pound has strengthened British demand for property around 35% since its lows of in the EU, including Spain?

2009, although it is still 15% My guess is yes, but I also susbelow it’s boom-time highs pect the British will vote to of around €1.6/£ or more. stay in the EU, particularly The pound surged 2% PROPERTY PICK with the sheer amount of against the euro in the first 24 hours after the A TOTAL of €2,900 million was invested business bosses vying for it, so I don’t think the Tory in property in Spain in the first quarter election result was known. victory will reduce demand of 2015, the highest rate in 31 quarters, That shaved 2,000 quid for this reason​.​ according to BNP Paribas Real Estate. off the price of a €100,000 ​In the meantime, a stronproperty, and the savings ger pound​, if that’s what will only get bigger if the house prices surge at home, we get,​ is almost sure to help pound heads back to €1.4/£ making property seem like a lift British demand for holior more, as it looks like it safe bet once again. day homes on the Costa del might.

On balance, a Conservative Sol. “We’d expect to see sterling victory suggests a stronger Good times ahead. now continue to gain across pound in future, which, in the board as the focus falls turn, should boost demand for on whether Greece can avoid property on the Costa del Sol. Mark Stucklin runs www. a default or not,” explains The only possible thing which spanishpropertyinsight.

Luke Trevail, a senior trader might influence British de- com 1) The exchange rate 2) Relations with the EU

and analyst a TorFX, a currency broker.

A stronger pound, coupled with lower Spanish house prices in the wake of a seven-year crash, makes Spanish property seem much cheaper to British buyers, who have also watched​

www.theolivepress.es Property

Berlin bonus Zara boss lines up German property deal while eyeing Oxford Street hotspot

SPAIN’S richest man is set to get even richer.

Zara boss Amancio Ortega is set to make a tidy €25 million profit by selling one of Germany’s prime properties.

Ortega – founder of Inditex, the parent company of Zara – is set for a €300 million cash injection as he lines up the sale of The Q commercial centre on luxury Berlin shopping street Friedrichstrasse.

The retail magnate bought the 50,000 square metre property for €275 million in 2007, meaning he will bag €25 million in profit.

Moving ever onward and upward, Ortega is reportedly also lining up a bid in excess of €500 million for the Primark building on London’s Oxford Street.

Olive Press - May 2015 the the Olive Press MayMay 13th13th - May 27th27th 2015

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CHASHING IN: Ortega (inset) and luxury Berlin shopping street

Friedrichstrasse, all but destroyed during World War II, was rebuilt into an upscale shopping street after the Berlin

Wall fell in 1989.

Ortega spent a vast €620 million expanding his property portfolio in 2014.

Spanish sweetheart SPAIN is back as the top choice for Brits buying abroad.

More than 54% of Brits looking to relocate abroad enquired about a move to Spain during the first quarter of 2015, according to finance expert Conti.

Spain has bumped France off top spot to reclaim its former title as number one British expat haven.

Meanwhile, Conti has seen the volume of overseas mortgage enquiries increase by 41% over the first three months of this year.

Portugal, Italy and Turkey make up the top five destinations for Brits looking to buy abroad.

driving ahead

NEW HOMES: Estepona Golf

CONSTRUCTION giant Taylor Wimpey Works halted by the crisis are now being is benefiting from a renewed property brought back to life, explains Regional boom by launching the construction of 59 Director, Ignacio Osle. “The first quarter terraced houses in Esteof 2015 saw a 15% inpona. crease in sales... and PROPERTY PICK In a €12 million deal there is a big scarTHE average price of second-hand with Estepona Golf, the city of good existing company is set to build homes in Spain increased by 1.1% to homes, which has led € 1,636 per m2 in April, following 800 new homes, plus to a greater interest a hotel with 400 bed- seven months of consecutive decline. in new builds. rooms, by the end of “The type of housing 2016. at Estepona Golf has The plan is in line with healthy growth the not been built on the Costa del Sol since company is seeing in Andalucia this year. before the crisis started eight years ago.”

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NEWS IN BRIEF Happy Bankers THE Banco de Espana has announced that the improved real estate sector signals the end of the Spanish property crisis.

New builds THE number of building permits issued in the first quarter of the year is up by nearly 50%, maintaining the rise seen at the end of 2014.

Top rate MORTGAGE agreements are up 30% for the first quarter of the year, with the average interest rate down to 3.35%, compared to 4.11% this time last year.

Bargain hunting PROPERTY prices have fallen faster in Andalucia than anywhere else in Spain.

A 4.1% price decrease in the last year means bargain homes are up for grabs.

Staying put THE average period of ownership of a Spanish property has increased by 55% to 11 years and 4 months, according to the official Spanish government statistics.

Offices at the Puente Romano Hotel & opposite the Marbella Club Hotel Tel. (+34) 952 863 750 info@panorama.es www.panorama.es

An International Associate of Savills

Enclosed: 198 m² Terrace: 33 m² Price: € 975,000

LA TRINIDAD 3-bedroom, first floor apartment in this prestigious 5-star complex with 24-hour security.

Wonderful views to the gardens and La Concha mountain.

Walking distance to the beach. Ref. 7893

Enclosed: 206 m² Plot: 800 m² Terrace: 127 m² Price: € 1,050,000

MARBELLA EAST Contemporary style 3-bedroom

Enclosed: 416 m² Plot: 2,200 m² Terrace: 160 m² Price: € 1,500,000

CASCADA DE CAMOJAN 4-bedroom villa in a sought-after area on the Golden Mile with 24-hour security.

Offering fantastic sea views from the upper level. Priced to sell. Ref. 7367

Enclosed: 187 m² Terrace: 128 m² Price: € 1,675,000

ALHAMBRA DEL MAR Renovated beachside

villa in Río Real. Under construction, due to be completed in autumn 2016. Gated community surrounded by golf courses. 10-minute drive to Marbella centre. Ref. 8398

3-bedroom duplex penthouse on the Golden Mile. Steps from the beach and walking distance to the city centre.

Stunning tropical communal gardens. Ref. 8723

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the Olive Presswww.theolivepress.es May 13th - May 27th 2015

LPA: A solid code of ethics and only experienced agents The first, and the oldest, property industry association on the Costa del Sol for real-estate agencies gives buyers, sellers, and all those involved in the sector a guarantee of the best service possible

Six reasons to use the LPA 1. History and experience - Deal with an estate agency that has a brand name presence with more than 10 years of experience 2. Honesty and integrity – Deal with an estate agent that adheres to a strict code of ethics 3. Knowledge – Deal with estate agents who know what they are talking about and whose opinion is respected by their peers 4. Market presence – Deal with a member of an organization with an enviable reputation in the area he/ she covers 5. Industry recognition - You don’t pay to become an LPA member, you have to earn it

T

HE Leading Property Agents of Spain (LPA) was set up in 2002 with two basic goals: to ensure a guarantee of quality, service and integrity in the real-estate industry in the south of Spain and to enable member agents to work together, extending their reach and increasing their effectiveness, via shared networks and resources.

Established by some of the longest-established agents on the Costa del Sol, the LPA today is made up of 11 member agencies, which collectively cover some of the most exclusive and in-demand locations from Marbella to Gibraltar, taking in areas including Casares, Estepona, and Sotogrande.

6. Visit one of our offices – All LPA agents have physical offices

Professional

Membership works on an invitation-only basis, meaning any potential new members have to meet the same exacting standards of quality, professional service practised by the area’s most reputable agencies.

So, if you choose an LPA member to help buy or sell property in southern Spain, you’re in the best possible hands.

On top of this, LPA members abide by a code of ethics that serves as the ‘rule book’ for the association, including such requirements as playing an active role in the communities where they work and havpredict exactly what is going ing in-depth knowledge of to happen. There has been a the areas they cover. slight slow down in ScandiThey must also always navian purchases because of act honestly, honourably, the Euro, while the British and transparently in their clients have grown” dealings with buyers, sellers, fellow agents, and anyone with whom they do business.

LPA MEMBER: Ulf Hessedahl – Andalucia Development Ulf’s father Kjell set up Andalucia Development and Ulf is now the manager, working there full time since 1996 “IN black and white terms the market is generally on the up.

More houses are being renovated and built and there has definitely been an increase year on year on properties sold.

There is more confidence, more sales are coming through and in some areas prices have gone up!

But what is important is that each property is its own unique case – you can never

LPA MEMBER: Oscar Ernstsen – Villas and Fincas Oscar has been running Villas and Fincas for the last 15 years with partner Anita, also Dutch “We are so busy – and that comes on top of record sales last year and this year, we have already done half of what we did last year, so 2015 promises to be great.

There are a few reasons for this: people have confidence in Spain and the international market in Spain is doing very well.

The Swiss franc is going up, and the pound is also going up so all these things are helping people invest in Spain.

We are also seeing quite a few Arabs buying – they like to have somewhere with

plenty of peace and quiet to retreat too – but, funnily enough, less Russians recently.”

Interests

They must also avoid aggressive marketing techniques, allowing people to freely choose to buy rather than deal with the ‘hard sell’.

They also agree to work together with other LPA members and competitors equitably and openly, while keeping the interests of buyers and sellers first and foremost.

LPA members not only share information on the properties they, individually, have listed on their books, but also share their experience, insight, and knowledge about the marTurn to Page 7

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STUNNING: This amazing 18th century, 18 bedroom country estate, near Arcos de la Frontera is for sale at €9m through LPA member Villas and Fincas

LPA Member: Adam Neale – Terra Meridiana Adam Neale started Terra Meridiana with his wife Theodora in Estepona 12 years ago “Finally you can say with certainty that there is real confidence again in the Costa del Sol property market.

There are so many positive reasons to buy a home in this part of Europe right now as those of us who are lucky enough to live and work here know only too well.”

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theOlive OlivePress PressMay May13th 13th- May - May27th 27th2015 2015 the

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www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

Working in Marbella Real Estate since 1981 Tel: +34 952 816 250

Mansion - La Cerquilla, Nueva Andalucia Ref. 176-00942P

5.350.000 € Bedrooms: 5 Guest Toilets: 1 Terrace: 162

Bathrooms: 5 Plot: 2.560 Built: 976

Magnificent and totally refurbished Villa/Mansion in La Cerquilla, Nueva Andalucia. Truly a master piece of contemporary design with all the extras you can imagine.

Fantastic views over the valley, sea and mountains and Puerto Banus and the beach are just a short drive away.

The property further benefits from underfloor heating throughout, air-conditioning, Integrated sound system, cinema, spa, gym with sauna, large Jacuzzi, hydro-massage baths and showers, ultra modern Japanese toilets, gazebo with BBQ, heated salt water pool, a top range sophisticated security system, garage for two cars plus plenty of parking on the driveway, and separate guest apartment.

Ground Floor Apartment - Albatross Hill Club, Ref. 176-00920P Nueva Andalucia

Apartment - Andalucia Garden Club Nueva Andalucia Ref. R176-01040

Bedrooms: 3 Terrace: 145 Guest Toilets: 1 Community Fees: Garbage Tax: Local Rates (IBI):

Bedrooms: 2 Terrace: 20 Construct Year: Community Fees: Garbage Tax: Local Rates (IBI):

595.000 €

Bathrooms: 3 Built: 200 Construct Year: 2005 600 € /Month 180 €/Year 900 €/Year

Andalucia Development Centro Comercial Plaza 63, 29660 Nueva Andalucia, Marbella info@andadev.com

www.andadev.com

347.500 €

Bathrooms: 2 Built: 90 1975 235 € /Month 186 €/Year 970 €/Year

www.theolivepress.es Property Property Now From Page 4

No time wasters allowed

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Olive Press - May 2015 the the Olive Press MayMay 13th13th - May 27th27th 2015

WELL APPOINTED: This stunning €5.95m villa in Sotogrande counts on nine bedrooms, a library and a pantry and is being sold through LPA member Holmes Sotogrande

ket and about clients’ needs.

This includes keeping abreast of legal and administrative changes that could affect buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants.

For buyers, LPA members will not waste your time and will only show you the kind of properties you want to see, not those they want to sell.

They will also provide genuine personal attention by building relationships, rather than ‘churning and burning’.

LPA MEMBER: Consuelo Silva – Consuelo Silva Real Estate

Impartial

In addition they have access to quality properties that comply with all the legal regulations; set fair prices based on real-world market conditions, instead of looking to make a fast buck; and offer impartial and sound advice on developers and builders, if you’re thinking of purchasing off-plan.

For sellers, LPA agencies will only visit your property with genuine prospective purchasers, rather than bringing anyone through your door; help you put together all the documentation you, and the buyer, need for a successful sale and provide all the advice and guidance you need to achieve the best possible sale price for your property.

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LPA MEMBER: Christopher Clover Panorama Christopher Clover has decades of experience in the Marbella property market having joined Panorama in 1973 “It is clear that the market touched bottom in 2011 and has been improving unquestionably yearly since then – last year an impressive 28.31 % over 2013 sales volume.

Those who have been waiting for years for the ‘right moment’ to buy, creating a pent-up demand,

have finally realised that the crisis is over and prices are on the move upwards.

This realisation creates a confidence with buyers that we have not seen during the crisis years.

We are seeing more French, due to the political situation in France and their ‘discovery’ of Marbella as a quality environment with great winter weather…

They are the last nationality in Europe to enter the market here in strength.”

Peruvian Consuelo Silva’s arrived in Marbella in 1986 before moving to Sotogrande in 1992 where she has worked ever since “The market is good and looking much, much better.

Already last year was quite a good year and this promises to be the same.

Prices are not going up, but there have been a few occasions where expensive properties have sold at very high prices.

Sotogrande is a special place and people are really starting to invest, with plans for new restaurants and hotels, we are excited about the summer.

The rental market is steady in summer and we are looking forward to welcoming back loyal customers.”

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the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015 ADVERTORIAL

A different world SOMETHING Different is the newest ‘one-stop shop’ for home decor, quirky gifts and jewellery – truly a ‘different’ experience!

A great, friendly place to browse, you will find yourself giggling at all the amusing signs.

If you are struggling for gift ideas, just stop by the shop in Jardin Botanico, La Cala.

There really is something for everyone.

If you can’t find what you are looking for, they can find it or get it made for you, just ask!

www.theolivepress.es

www.theolivepress.es Olive Press the Olive Press Maythe 13th - May 27thMay 201513th -

CEO of RE/MAX Top explains how foreign buyers are adding up to more than 50% of their sales… even in Malaga city

Expat buying boom ADVERTORIAL

View from the top of the market AFTER 10 years of experience and dedication as a franchise licensee of Engel & Volkers, Ivonne Panhuis sold her licence to set up her own company Private Office Marbella Prime Homes focussing exclusively on high-end real estate.

Panhuis says: “Private Office Marbella strives to become the leading company for top market homes situated in the best and high quality prime locations of Marbella.

“I see it as my task to find exactly the right property for our customers, unique and in line with their wishes and needs, and to mediate, organise and accompany them throughout the entire process.”

She prides herself on confidentiality, personal support to owner and buyer, integrity, the best contacts, reliability and more than 12 years of experience in this high end market.

For more information visit the website: www.privateofficemarbella.com she would love to meet you!

ON THE UP: Malaga City is seeing a healthy growth of foreign buyers

F

OREIGN buyers are back, big-time, particularly from the UK where the strong adding a welcome boost to the Span- pound makes the investment even more appealing.” ish property market.

Last year, a total of 4,397 proper- A large percentage of purchases in 2014 were for top level, luxury properties, located ties were sold to non-residents in Spain, in high-end tourist areas such as the a 7.4% increase on 2013 and 22% Costa del Sol. more than 2012.

“There’s definitely more deIn the case of agent RE/MAX We mand for the best properties Top, which has offices in and those in the most desirMarbella and Malaga, forpredict a high able areas are selling fast,” eign buyers make up the volume of summer adds Bilbao. vast majority of their clients.

“However there’s also a lot “Around 80% of purchastourists looking at of interest in the lower end ers in our Marbella office of the market for the more and 50% of purchasers in property affordable properties in arour Malaga office are foreign,” eas, such as the east of Malaga, says RE/MAX Top CEO Miguel where we’ve seen a lot of demand Bilbao. from over-50s British buyers.”

“With tourism on the increase again and another record summer expected, we predict a high volume of summer tourists For more info email Remax2@relooking at property while they are here, maxtop.es or visit www.remaxtop.es

www.privateofficemarbella.com

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the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

Looking to buy beautifuL properties Like this?

there’s something here for everyone!

How about this stunning apartment located in the luxurious and secure Jardin del Mediterraneo development in the heart of Marbella, near the Gran Melia Don Pepe and beach?

With two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a spacious living room and a covered balcony with garden views, this is a comfortable apartment for holidays or great all year round. The east facing, third floor apartment is tastefully decorated with a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning and under floor heating.

price: 650,000€

Includes parking, storage, shared tropical garden, swimming pool and direct access to the Paseo Maritimo.

ContaCt us today! email - remax2@remaxtop.es • Call - 952 906 201 Find us in Marbella on the Golden Mile, opposite Lidl Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso de Hohenlohe, Edificio Milla de Oro, Local 2 B, 29602, Marbella And in Malaga Paseo de Reding, nº 3, 29016 Like us on

Are you selling your property?

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please forward your CV to: jobs@remaxtop.es www.remaxtop.es 08/05/15 11:59

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30 630the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

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Strength in numbers AN Olive Press investigation exposing lawyers giving agents ‘backhanders’ in return for work has gained the support of two key lobbying groups.

Established expat campaign group AUAN has thrown its weight behind the K.O. the kickbacks campaign, alongside a leading legal firm, that has been attempting to outlaw the practice since 2013.

Our ongoing probe aims to stop the corrupt practice of agents only giving conveyancing jobs to lawyers if they agree to a kickback of up to 20%.

“Any initiative that helps to protect the interests of purchasers and improves the marketplace is a good thing,” said AUAN president Maura Hillen, whose group has been fighting demolitions of so-called illegal properties for nearly a decade.

Meanwhile major Spanish law firm Ramon C Pelayo Abogados has lent its support, after fighting the unethical practice in the courts since 2013.

“It is great to find someone else that de-

Olive Press K.O. the kickbacks campaign marches on fends the same principles as us,” said boss Ramon Pelayo.

“We are fighting against this kind of practice that has spread among some ‘colleagues’.

He added: “At the moment, one of our lawyers is trying to take on a high profile law firm and has submitted a denuncia to the Malaga Bar Association.”

According to Article 19 of Spain’s official code of ethics ‘a lawyer may never pay, demand or accept commissions or other monies from another lawyer, or any other person for having sent a client or recommending future customers’.

A total of 14 law firms and 10 estate agents are so far backing the ongoing campaign (see panel, right).

So far appeals for the Malaga Law Society and UK Law Society to back the campaign have been unsuccessful.

To add your name to the Olive Press’

The discovery channel IF you’re on the lookout for an authentic Spanish cortijo, villa or traditional town house, Undiscovered Spain is right up your street.

In partnership with Grupo Inmobiliario Une, this Andalucian agent specialises in stunning rural properties throughout the region at affordable local prices.

Priced from €12,000 for a vil-

lage house and from €50,000 for a country retreat, there is something for every buyer.

The company also sells properties that are ideal for starting up a rural tourism business, as well as ‘cortijos’ for reform.

Investors are flocking to take advantage of Undiscovered Spain’s buy-to-let programme, with houses starting

at €20,000 offering over 10% returns.

With teams of independent local builders already lined up, Undiscovered Spain can transform any property into the house of your dreams.

For more information call 958392033 or email enquiries@undiscoveredspain.com

list of ethical lawyers and estate agents email newsdesk@theolivepress.es or call 951273575.

Showing their support:

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K.O. the kickbacks Spring has sprung

Law firms My Lawyer in Spain Lawbird MT Legal Anderson PCL Temple Cambria Gutierrez del Alamo & Martos Abogados Poveda & Associates Lawyers Paradigm Family Law C&S Abogados Bench & Co Costa de la Luz Lawyers Solis Abogados Vicente & Otaolaurruchi Abogados Ramon C. Pelayo Abogados

Other groups

IT’S a big birthday for Mijas Properties, celebrating 30 happy years of helping homebuyers and sellers in Mijas.

And this year is looking rosier than most for Susanne Teres (above) and her team with the town - and market - in great shape.

“As predicted, things are really moving!” says Teres, who lives in the heart of the town.

“We have some lovely new instructions where owners who had been thinking about putting their properties up have now taken the plunge to sell as the market has become so buoyant.”

She continues: “We have also lots of great price reductions of properties that have been on for some time.”

The team now also helps to arrange weddings and special celebrations for clients and counts on great contacts for florists, catering, beauty and venues – not to mention their classic Daimler car.

AUAN

www.mijasproperties.com

Estate agents Terra Meridiana Cluttons Panorama Properties Hudson International Properties Inland Andalucia Aylesford International Inmobiliaria Partaloa Living Life Property Consultants SL Inmobiliaria Andalucia Propertiespain

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STARY-EYED: Zoe Ball and Fatboy Slim, David Sainsbury, Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsey have all been entranced by Gaucin

R

OUNDING the final corner of the ancient Roman road into the hilltop village of Gaucin, you could be forgiven for thinking little has changed since the first stones were laid.

And perhaps that is what brings discerning celebrities and captains of industry to this unspoilt spot, clinging to the rocky ridge between Gibraltar and Ronda.

The rich and famous, too, are frequently rewarded for braving the winding road to arrive in this fairytale location.

And they are an undeniably high-calibre bunch... Just ask DJ Fatboy Slim and wife Zoe Ball who have holidayed there, or Hollywood superstar Claire Danes, who actually spent her honeymoon in the village with English acting heartthrob Hugh Dancy.

Then there are superchefs Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay, who have hung out and filmed in the town’s many charming cafes and restaurants.

Most recently Ramsay headed over to film for an episode of his show Kitchen Nightmares taking on the fledgling – and struggling – restaurant Granada Divino. Following a gruelling experience it is now dubbed by various critics as Gaucin’s best restaurant.

But it is the recent buyers of properties in the town that has most raised eyebrows of late.

While whispers suggest that the CEO of auction house Sotheby’s has recently bought a home in the town, what is certain is that one of the UK’s most successful captains of industry David Sainsbury has recently been seduced by the picture-perfect, slow-pace of the town.

Billed as having ‘one of the best swimming pools in Spain’, the eight-bedroom former guest house El Nobo oozes charm and secluded-exclusivity.

Money cannot always buy this tranquility and the supermarket tycoon – worth a cool €1 billion – would know.

This property, alongside countless others, offers a chance to escape from the outside world to a paparazzi-free paradise and pure relaxation.

Homeland star Claire Danes and British actor Hugh Dancy handpicked the property as the perfect place to hide out after they wed in a low-key ceremony in 2009.

There is something in the description of the Genal Valley (which Gaucin overlooks) as the ‘Cotswolds of Spain’ that resonates with visitors.

Gaucin is becoming the heart of the ‘Cotswolds of Spain’... the Olive Press explains why so many global big-wigs are flocking to Andalucia’s quaintest village

Hidden hot spot

FAMILY-FRIENDLY: Gaucin and (inset) Danes and Dancy

How deep are your pockets?

A SLICE of the exclusive Gaucin scene can be yours for as little as €50,000.

Properties go from a cosy one bedroom flat complete with wood-burning stove and oozing olde worlde character for €49,750.

At the other end of the spectrum, a five bedroom property with panoramic views over the valley can fetch as much as €1,650,000.

VARIED: From budget to bling Or maybe it is the overwhelming sense of quality, inherent class – a million miles from the bright lights of Banus or the spray-tan beach-bunnies of Marbella.

Overlooked by a ruined Roman castle and watered by the cleanest river in Europe, Gaucin perches aloof and untouched as the balcony of the Serrania of Ronda haunt.

Inhabited by the Romans and

fortified by the Moors, the town is steeped in history – and it hits you when meandering through the ceramic lizardlined streets.

It is also home to perhaps the most important collection of artists on the Costa del Sol who fling their studio doors open to the public for two weekends of May. Summer months will see the town’s population of 2,000

grow – but Gaucin never loses its character of peace and seclusion.

So, celebrity or not, keep a beady eye on the horizon for Gaucin, as stars have a knack of identifying the hottest – or coolest – places to set up camp.

Just make sure you’re wearing your seatbelt when you are distracted by the breathtaking views!

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the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

www.theolivepress.es

www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

HOMESELLERS REPORT

Mr Boom of Benahavis

H

E sits in his central Benahavis office scrolling up and down a detailed computer document with plus and minus figures etched into a right hand col-

umn.

It’s his Google Analytics home page and, perhaps no surprise, almost every entry has a plus sign...and a big plus at that.

It is all part of the masterplan for Scott Marshall’s highly successful real estate business Propertiespain.

With an incredible 20-something websites - all

With nearly 30 websites all relating to the local area, it is no surprise that Scott Marshall is slowly cornering the market in the scenic growth town of Benahavis

on Benahavis - he can now pinpoint the exact area, and even urbanisation his potential clients are looking to buy in.

Finally launching two months ago, the sites, which relate to different developments and schemes, are all interlinked and report back to Marbella and Estepona, but I think Benahavis his mother website www.propertiespain.com. is the real hidden gem of the coast,” he says.

“It’s taken a long time to build so it is very ex“The town hall is the wealthiest per inhabitant citing that it is all now working,” explains the in the whole of Spain, which means there are amicable agent, 40, who has lived in Benaha- all sorts of subsidies here that just don’t exist vis for most of his life. anywhere else.”

“It is an incredible tool that really helps me So when he decided to set up a property busiunderstand what my clients ness in 2009, there was no better place for it to be based. are looking for,” he adds.

“It was such an easy decision for me to set Marshall, who is married to a local Spanish girl, grew up up here, because I’ve spent nearly all my life and has lived in Benahavis here,” he says.

The son of well-known local sculptor his entire life, except David Marshall, Scott spent nine one year living on an years managing three real oil rig off Scotland Most estate businesses in Miafter his degree jas Costa and Torrox, in mechanical importantly, the for a UK-based firm. engineering.

British buyers are When the company “It was only folded in 2009, Scott after a spendup by 25 to 30% decided that now was ing a year in this year alone the time to go it alone.

Aberdeen that “Everyone thought I was I realised what a crazy setting up right in great quality of life the middle of the financial we have here,” he excrisis. But in the first year alone I plained. So I came straight back out here and started made back everything I had investworking for a company, sell- ed, and since then we’ve more or less ing entertainment systems doubled our business year on year.” along the coast, before going Nestled in the mountainside only seven kilometres from the coast, Benahainto real estate in Mijas.”

Now the proud owner of one vis is home to nine golf courses and so of the Costa del Sol’s most many restaurants that it is often called thriving agencies, Scott’s love the dining room of the Costa del Sol. for his home town is very Propertiespain takes advantage of the region’s diverse geography to offer a clear.

“People always talk about huge variety of properties, from well-

priced or luxury apartments to mountainside villas and mansions, and everything in between.

Benahavis’ location has protected it from the notorious overdevelopment of much of the Costa del Sol. “You’re not in some souvenir town, it still feels like you’re in Spain. It’s still very traditional and authentically Spanish,” he explains.

In fact, Scott’s father David was one of the very first expats to arrive in the area, after moving out here from Scotland more than 50 years ago.

“When my father first arrived there was almost nothing here.

But it has really flourished thanks to the work of my father.

“Best of all, he is capitalising on the boom in the property market.

“The property market has really picked up over the last couple of years.

“In particularly the British buyers are up by 25 to 30% this year alone and we are having our best months ever.”

“That we’re a local company really makes a difference – we know everyone here, the sellers, the postman, the local butcher.”

Visit www.propertiespain.com or call 952855489

INCREDIBLE DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY 7 HECTARES OF STUNNING BEACH FRONT LAND NEAR TO THE TRAFALGAR LIGHTHOUSE ON THE BEAUTIFUL COSTA DE LA LUZ JUST 1 HOUR FROM MARBELLA BETWEEN CANOS DE MECA AND EL PALMAR IDEAL FOR FARMING PROJECT, CAMP SITE OR CHRINGUITO/BEACH BAR OFFERS OF OVER €1.000.000 (£710,000)

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: MANAGER@HURRICANEHOTELS.COM

www.theolivepress.es

the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

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36 16 36the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

The Olive Press asks inland property specialist Graham Govier how the market is looking away from the coast

www.theolivepress.es www.theolivepress.es

March 2015 www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

Happy days up here!

Q: How is the year looking at Inland Andalucia, Graham?

We are very busy, due to a combination of the sterling exchange rate to the euro combined with rock bottom prices.

It also helps that we are the longest established and most recognisable inland agency and that our reputation for attention to both vendors and purchasers goes before us.

In fact things have gone so well we sold 19 properties in April alone and May is shaping up in a similar way.

Q: So are we definitively out of the crisis?

For sure we are climbing out of the crisis now. I had an uncanny feeling in January this year that property sales were going to accelerate, so it was a wise decision to bring on board two extra sales people.

Without them, we would not have been able to take care of our clients in April and achieve the sales level.

Inland Andalucia Head Office in Spain +34 952 741 525 Calle de la Villa 14, 29532 Mollina, for Málaga & Sevilla Córdoba, Granada and Jaén Regions +34 953 587 040 Calle Abad Moya 4 bajo, 23680 Alcalá la Real, Jaén Email: info@inlandandalucia.com DREAM ESCAPES: Inland Andalucia has some of Spain’s most stunning rural properties on its books

counts from the current market prices.

They soon need to realise that those days are well behind us now.

In fact, in March we experienced the loss of three sales where vendors decided in the ‘cooling off’ period that the money they were to receive was not sufficient to proceed to completion.

Q: Any gripes?

Q: Are the banks helping out?

Some potential purchasers seem to imagine that it is still possible to negotiate large dis-

The banks are definitely looking for more mortgage business now. Just in the last

week we have been approached by various local banks offering their new lending rates, insiting: “we have money to lend now”.

What a change of attitude! With low property prices, low borrowing interest rates, coupled with high demand from purchasers, it’s no accident that the remaining bargains will soon be snapped up and the inevitable property price increases will be here to stay.

Q: Give us an overview of the market?

From our completed sales of over €2 million this year, we see that the average sales price per property, from our Malaga regional office is €96,600 and €30,363 from our Jaen regional office.

Properties under offer in April will account for another €1.2 million of business written so far this year.

Yes, it’s happy days for both vendors and purchasers right now so make sure to come and visit us in our two offices if you have a home to sell or are keen to buy.

www.theolivepress.es

the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

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the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

FAIRYTALE farm with a history as rich as its rural surroundings is up for grabs in Almeria.

Set in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada natural park, it was once home to a Duke.

And not just any Duke... The previous owner was a descendant of the Mendoza family which wielded its power throughout the country from the 14th to 17th century.

Now home to expats Shafik Zananiri and Doris Weber, the couple are looking for new owners to buy into their idyllic lifestyle as they downsize.

Stumbling on the mystery farm in 2006 and falling instantly in love with it, Shafik and Doris immediately began searching for the owner of their ‘dream retreat’.

Locals said it would be an ‘impossible’ task but after two years chasing shadows, they traced the title deeds to a Duke.

“The house is steeped in history,” Shafik says. “When we were looking on the map we noticed that all the farms had names to do with death and destruction and then, in the middle of them, was La Rosa.

“We were fascinated by it straight away.”

He added: “First we heard rumours that it was owned by a nun, then we were told the house belonged to ‘Don Kilowatio’ and finally we were led to this Duke and after two years trying to track him down, we were eventually able to buy our perfect finca in 2008.

“It really is a complete world on its own.”

Local legend says ‘nobody has ever gone hungry at La Rosa’, because the land around it is so rich and diverse.

www.theolivepress.es

Title deeds

If you’re looking for a noble country seat, this heritage finca with a blueblooded history could fulfill your wildest dreams for just €320,000

PROPERTY FOCUS

PICTURESQUE: Views from La Rosa With 25 hectares of fertile land and two farmhouses of 250m2 (renovated) and 200m2 (pre-renovated), this rural idyll is set in breathtaking scenery, surrounded by pines, chestnut, holm oak and walnut trees.

And with 12 hectares of south-

facing irrigated farmland, the home offers a self-sufficient lifestyle.

The land even has the water rights to the main source of the Andarax river, which forms the south border of the farm, and Shafik and Doris have harvested 5,000 kilos of chestnuts every year.

It is also a perfect retreat for hunters, hikers, fishers, skiers and allround nature enthusiasts.

As Shafik explains: “The place has something for everyone and there are plenty of hidden corners waiting to be discovered.

“It is great for people who love horse riding as well, the place is open and wild, waiting to be explored. You can ride your horse wherever you want, gallop as fast as you want to gallop.

He added: “We bought our first house in Spain in 1978 and know the area very well.

“Before finding La Rosa we looked at more than 180 farms. We wanted somewhere with the perfect land for growing a diverse range of crops with a good level of privacy.

“There are no neighbours in sight and yet it is not the end of the world, being close to Laujar village.”

The attractive main solid-stone building features floors made from recycled slates which once covered the roof. The sublime kitchen boasts a oneand-a-half metre wide original stone oven. There is also a big sitting room, en suite master bedroom and a separate guest wing with sitting room, bedroom and bathroom and its own entrance from the outside and into the kitchen.

The second building, out of sight and completely separate from the main living quarters, is used to stable horses but could equally be transformed into separate living quarters.

Shafik and Doris have enjoyed their hidden paradise for seven years and would love to pass on their dream home to a caring and appreciative new owner.

For further information, call Tel: 541 44101 or email dorle. weber@gmx.de

the Olive Press May www.theolivepress.es 13th - May 27th 2015

Boom time

WITH over 175 years of real estate experience and 90 branches worldwide it is no wonder that Winkworth is getting excited about Spain’s property boom.

With recent unemployment figures down and property prices levelling Spanish property appears to be on the up.

What all of this means is that now is the time for property investors to take advantage of the low property prices, before the projected increases start to kick in.

Director Bernard Vent said: “2015 and 2016 is going to be the golden opportunity for Spanish property investors and speculators.

“The market is prime.”

Ready, set, protect!

TAKING care of safety in one of the Costa del Sol’s most exclusive enclaves of El Madronal, Fuengirola security company STARPROTEC is an impressive get-up.

Small but well-established (since 2000), the service is triple pronged: offering guards, installing surveillance and monitoring systems connected to emergency services.

The emphasis is on providing a personal, tailor-made, high quality service.

General Manager Antonio Romero says: “If you have a robbery there’s a large chance the bigger companies won’t even come out and see you whereas we always do as we value each of our clients hugely.”

www.theolivepress.es

LOS MONTEROS from €200,000

the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

(£147,757) *

REF: WW286

ESTEPONA

from €207,000 (£152,929) *

39

REF: WW247

A residential resort of 2 and 3 bedroom apartments combining quality with a relaxed and healthy lifestyle and magnificent views to the sea and Marbella. Features include 24 hr security, video entry to apartments, landscaped gardens, 2 outside pools, one interior heated pool, Jacuzzis, saunas, a gymnasium, Italian design fitted kitchens, hot and cold air conditioning and a private parking space with lift access.

This is a luxury oasis with beautiful Andalucian style architecture, a grand pool and beautifully landscaped gardens. Style, quality, security and hi-tech comfort come as standard in this development situated in a privileged, elevated location near the beach and surrounded by many of the area’s finest golf courses. A fantastic opportunity to live in the heart of the Costa del Sol enjoying the best possible quality at an exceptional price.

ESTEPONA

MIJAS COSTA

€225,000 (£166,227)*

REF: WW292

from €245,000 (£181,003)*

REF: WW217

Situated within a top quality gated community on the east side of Estepona, this two bedroom, two bathroom luxury apartment is fitted with excellent finishes throughout. The bathrooms and all internal flooring is in marble, there is hot/cold air conditioning, tiles in the fully fitted kitchen are Saloni and the bedrooms have quality fitted wardrobes. Communal facilities include two pools and two padel courts. Far reaching views can be enjoyed from the private balcony.

New luxury homes in La Cala Golf Resort with sea and golf views. The complex is located in a quiet area between the Natural Park of the Sierra de Mijas and the Mediterranean Sea. The 2 or 3 bedroom apartments have 2 bathrooms and combine contemporary living with luxury and comfort. The development is a private gated community with pool and communal gardens, storage and private parking included in the price located just a few minutes drive from Mijas old town.

BENAHAVIS

GUADALMINA ALTA

€370,000 (£273,351)*

REF: WW269

A fantastic, modern development beautifully set in the hills of Benahavis and enjoying wonderful views. This particular apartment is a penthouse with stunning views. Within the development is a Ballesteros designed 18 hole golf course, putting green, gym, sauna, squash courts, tennis and padel courts. In addition there is a restaurant and bar where you can enjoy the magnificent sea views. A fantastic development with superb views, only 10 minutes drive from Puerto Banus.

€470,000 (£347,229)*

REF: WW278

A rare opportunity to purchase an immaculate, spacious property located within a beautifully maintained and popular community. This 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom townhouse is distributed over two floors with a large sitting room/dining room having doors to the covered terrace and private pool. There is off road parking and the communal areas include landscaped gardens, a beautiful pool and children’s play area. Offers are invited in the region of €470,000.

tel: +34 952 880 941 info@winkworth.es www.winkworth.es

* Disclaimer exchange rate correct at time of going to press.

Property

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Olive 13th - May www.theolivepress.es the Olive the Press MayPress 13th May - May 27th 201527th 2015

For most people €34 million is the dream lottery winnings, but for a select few, this amount is merely a family holiday home in the sun

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A bargain at €18million This amazing front line villa in Marbella could be yours for €17m – or €36,000 per week to rent through www. privateofficemarbella.com With its own Moorish watchtower converted into a bedroom, as well as six more bedrooms, 24/7 security and staff quarters, it really is a dream home

This beautiful seven-bedroom villa, in Sotogrande could you be yours for €4,75m via Overseas Dreams

essentialmagazine

®

HETHER bling is your thing or if it’s the ancient Moorish arches and sun-draped courtyards that get your pulse soaring, Andalucia’s high-end homes are varied and vast.

It’s rumoured that money can’t buy happiness, but some investors in Spain have had a crack at it, splashing out as much as €34 million on some properties.

And there’s usually a fascinating story behind them – from one of Panorama’s estates originally built by a Middle Eastern royal family, to Winkworth’s Estepona property boasting a Venice gold leaf frieze.

The prices can be high but buyers get staggering value and ultimate seclusion for their money.

And can you put a price on watching the sunset over the Mediterranean with an iced sangria in your hand from the privacy of your dream estate?

The Olive Press has located some of the most luxurious and expensive properties – and most have room for helipads and cinemas.

With the wow-factor reverberating through every marble corridor, these expensive properties are the stuff of dreams.

Need somewhere to land your helicopter? Then this seven-bedroom villa has space for a helipad, not to mention a carp lake and two hectares of amazing gardens. You’ll need a spare €15m mind, and if interested give agent Winkworth a call

The time is NOW! Spanish property expert Peter Bowerman on the strengthening Costa Del Sol market and how best to invest in it

T

16 years 1999-2015

w w w. e s s e n t i a l m a g a z i n e . c o m

ODAY’S Costa del Sol property market has finally come of age and a lot more predictably than the boom and bust days of yesteryear when agents had to work incredibly hard for the fewer sales around.

The market is definitely moving again with up to 30% increase in sales towards the end of 2014 and prices in March finally rising a little bit.

On top of that, thankfully, a lot of the big extimeshare agencies with their ‘sling-enoughmud-at-the-wall-and-see-what-sticks’ attitude have now gone into liquidation.

While they tarnished everyone’s reputations, we - and many other leading agents - in contrast operate a very professional and transparent service.

If you’re thinking about selling, now is a good time.

After 24 years in property, I can confidently say that after choosing the right agent, the next most important decision is choosing the correct sales price.

If it is priced competitively, it should sell reasonably quickly. Fact.

Unfortunately though, too many inexperienced agents take on properties at any price, for fear that the vendor may be disappointed with the truth and call another agent.

The result is usually no sale.

An experienced agent will give honest advice, even if it’s not what the vendor wants to hear.

I have equally been advising buyers and investors on which property is best suited to their personal needs or what is best for rental or long term capital growth, all very different acquisitions.

I have based my career around property, which is still one of the safest - and most lucrative - investments available.

This may seem a bold statement, after the global recession and slow property recovery, however, look at everything else that crashed and would you, for example, want to gamble your money in the stock markets, or the few remaining banks and their low interest rates?

History shows that with long term property investment, prices always go up, even with all the fluctuations in between.

That is, unless you get carried away as many did in the last boom and buy far more property than could be sustained.

Successful property investment is simply a matter of slowly buying up good properties at good prices and renting them out, eventually building a strong portfolio.

You then either keep the property as a pension or sell off for large gains in the future when the market doubles or quadruples, as historically it usually does.

Just like the game of Monopoly, you can’t go out buying up everything and leaving yourself short of cash when you hit the occasional speed bump.

You have to keep reserves so you are never forced to sell at the wrong time. You want to buy now while prices are low and sell later when the market is strong again.

As an established agent, who has stuck with property market through thick and thin, I can honestly say I’m excited about the future and personally heavily investing in property again.

Contact Peter on 951 551 444 or email: info@OverseasDreams.com

Overseas Dreams

Property

www.theolivepress.es

the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

REAL ESTATE / INMOBILIARIA

Stunning Villa & Price Reduction € 595,000 TOP849 Very impressive 4 double bedroom villa in very popular Costa del Sol Location, Benalmadena Costa. Impressive frontage with two entrances, Double garage, beautiful villa & gardens, sea views & marble spiral stair case.

Genuine Bargain.

COSTA DEL SOL

Best Value for Money on the Coast € 98,000 - 165,000

TOP421

Beautiful front line golf development, luxury 2 bed apartments & Penthouses now heavily reduced by for quick sales, Luxury gated development, classy clubhouse & facilities. One of the best value deals on the Costa Del Sol.

Bank Repossession Clearance Deals

Stunning Marbella Villa

€ 116,900 TOP435 New bank repossessions discounted by 65% luxury high quality 2 & 3 bed apartments & Penthouses in lovely Duquesa marina/golf town. Incredibly low clearance prices. Walk to beach & Marina, absolute bargains, selling fast.

€ 2.649,000 TOP777 Brand new elegant & contemporary south west facing villa. 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, cinema room, gymnasium & sauna room. Situated in the prestigious Los Monteros area of Marbella, only approximately 5 minutes drive to Marbella town centre.

Brand New Benalmadena Bank Release! € 125,000 - € 210,000

1741

Stunning Pad Near Banus € 225,000

TOP842

New modern 2 bed apartments situated in a popular location of Benalmadena, between the village and Coast. Surrounded by golf, club house with Gym and sea views. Great buy to let potential.

TOP809

Stunning front line golf penthouse luxuriously reformed into a trendy open plan home.

This unique 1 bed property is bigger than many 3 bed apartments & offers a very stylish & luxurious home in the hills above Puerto Banus.

Overseas Dreams is an established & professional real estate agency, covering all the Costa del Sol. With registered offices both in Marbella & La Cala.

We offer all types of property from bank clearance deals to the most prestigious Marbella mansions.

Bargain Beach Town Villa € 349,000

TOP852

Beautiful 3 bed, 2 bath, Villa in El Chaparral next to very popular La Cala de Mijas beach town.

Garage, storage, no community fees, planning for pool. Lovely private garden & terrace areas.

Walking distance to beach & La Cala town.

Our professional team will guide you through the whole process, from viewings to completion, introducing reliable english speaking lawyers and financial advsiors, best furniture companies etc Contact us now to discuss your overseas dreams.

Luxury Puerto Banus Penthouse € 411,000 - 644,500

TOP677

Brand new luxury 2 bed penthouses in Puerto Banus / Nueva Andalucia. Bank repossession deals massively reduced by over 50% & selling out fast. High quality apartments in one of the worlds top locations. Contact us now to view.

PROMOTION OF THE MONTH 40% OFF OUR SELLING FEES SELL YOUR HOME FOR ONLY 3% +IVA

TOP787 Contemporary Luxury Villa Deal € 1.195,000

TOP787

Stylish & impressive contemporary south facing 5 bed, 5 bath luxury villa. Set in beautiful surroundings of El Paraiso, between Puerto Banus & Estepona. Sea & mountain views, near golf course & reformed to a very high standard.

Tel: (0034) 951 551 444 Tel: (0034) 646 566 555

We need more properties for our buyers. If you want to sell, call now for a free valuation and full terms. We heavily market your property all over Europe, not just Spain. Get the best marketing with one of Europe’s most proactive real estate agents.

Bargain Villa – Forced Sale € 299,500

TOP374

One of the best 3 bed villa deals on the Costa del Sol, Further reduced from 430k to now only 299,500 euros for urgent sale.

Grab a modern luxury villa for a bargain price. Close to golf, clubhouse, restaurants and mini-market.

www.OverseasDreams.com info@OverseasDreams.com

Property

42 18the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

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Property

www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015 EXPANDING: Kent and Olle at the new Estepona office

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ITH its stylish decor, ample space and clever use of natural light, it would certainly win an award for one of the hippest real estate offices on the coast.

And, of course - being Swedish - the new Fastighetsbyran office in Estepona is almost entirely furnished from Ikea.

“We wanted to create a bit of a wow factor, using a mix of the usual Swedish style and a few local Spanish touches,” explains boss Olle Westerling, 63.

A calm, good humoured chap, he and his business partner Kent Schanke, 55, have been working on the Costa del Sol together for 15 years.

Before setting up their first office in Centro Plaza, in Nueva Andalucia, the pair ran the private banking arm of one of Sweden’s biggest banks Swedbank.

And now they are expanding their property business, hav-

Moving fast While Sweden’s leading real estate agency Fastighetsbyran is slowly becoming a household name on the coast it is rapidly growing with a new office in Estepona ing just opened the stunning new office in Estepona, as the market really starts to pick up.

In total, Fastighetsbyran now has 12 offices in Spain and an incredible 250 in Sweden.

“We have a lot of Scandinavian clients, but the British market, both with sellers and buyers, is growing fast,” explains Kent.

“Obviously speaking perfect English and our good affinity to the UK helps.”

He continues: “It has been

a great year for the group so far and we are on course to sell around 1,000 properties this year. April was our best month ever.”

As regards the differences between banking and property, Olle makes it quite clear. “You walk and drive a lot more, talk a lot more and, above all, listen a lot more. That is the most important thing.”

Since opening their new office on Avenida Espana, in the heart of Estepona, they have been getting a nice trickle of

visitors.

“A lot of people have been showing interest, which is no surprise,” says Olle. “We realised we were already selling a lot of property in Estepona from our Marbella office and figured we should get a decent central office here too.

“Come along and meet us and see what we can do for you.”

Visit the new Fastighetsbyran office in Avenida Espana, in Estepona or call 952 807 652 for more information

Property

43 www.theolivepress.es 18

the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015 the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

Spring has finally arrived to Scandinavia.

It still snows of course, but less frequently.

Might be good to know if you’re looking for someone to buy your house.

We have the buyers!

We are Sweden’s leading real estate agency in Spain. And we’re growing fast, from Barcelona to Gran Canaria. We know the market and have a register full of frozen Scandinavians who dream of a life in the sun.

Let us prove ourselves! If we don’t manage to sell your home, you don’t pay anything. But since we sell more than one home every day, that’s probably not going to happen...

FASTIGHETSBYRÅN MARBELLA 951 191 000 / FASTIGHETSBYRÅN ESTEPONA 952 807 257 MARBELLA@FASTIGHETSBYRAN.SE / FASTIGHETSBYRAN.SE/OVERSEAS

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www.theolivepress.es

www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015