Olive Press Property magazine Issue 2

Paradise by the pool...

POTTED POINTERS

olive pressthe

ropertyExpat buying boom

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

Why a host of famous chefs, celeb-rities and supermarket tycoons are buying in Gaucin

Mr Boom of Bena-havis Scott Marshall reveals his mas-ter property plan with 20-something websites

PagE 8

PagE 13

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, con-sectetur adipiscing elit. Curabitur a mauris ut risus congue scelerisque

PagE 14

PagE 7

hifx

Contact our Marbella O�ice:

Tel: +34 951 203 [email protected]

Avda De Manolete, Centro Plaza Local 12-13,Nueva Andalucia, 29660,Marbella, Malaga

HiFX Europe Limited Sucursal en España is a branch of HiFX Europe Limited. HiFX Europe Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Payment Services Regulations 2009, registration 462444, for the provision of payment services.HiFX Europe Limited Sucursal en España is a branch of HiFX Europe Limited. HiFX Europe Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Payment Services Regulations 2009, registration 462444, for the provision of payment services. Don’t let the banks cash in! www.hifx.co.uk

Put us to the test. See if HiFX could saveyou time and money.

Buying or selling property in Spain?

Let us help youreach your destination.

Tel: +34 951 203 986 [email protected]

www.hifx.co.ukDon’t let the banks cash in!

Buying or selling property in Spain?Let us help youreach your destination.Put us to the test. See if HiFX could save youtime and money.

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

P

Boom boom boy

Hidden hotspot

HOMESELLERS REPORT

EDITION No. 2

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

24 - Page

Special

22 www.theolivepress.esthe Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015 May 13th - May 27th 201522 Property

Exciting times indeed for the Spanish property market

2 Property

PROPERTY PICKA TOTAL of €2,900 million was invested in property in Spain in the first quarter of 2015, the highest rate in 31 quarters, according to BNP Paribas Real Estate.

IF the flapping of a but-terfly’s wings in Brazil can set off a Tornado in Texas, as Chaos theory

suggests, then what does the surprise Conservative victo-ry 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 com-prised 17% of foreign de-mand 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 buy-ers 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 Brit-ish demand for property in Spain:

1) The exchange rate 2) Relations with the EU

The pound has strengthened around 35% since its lows of 2009, although it is still 15% below it’s boom-time highs of around €1.6/£ or more. The pound surged 2% against the euro in the first 24 hours after the election result was known. That shaved 2,000 quid off the price of a €100,000 property, and the savings will only get bigger if the pound heads back to €1.4/£ or more, as it looks like it might. “We’d expect to see sterling now continue to gain across the board as the focus falls on whether Greece can avoid a default or not,” explains Luke Trevail, a senior trader

Don’t flap over Cameron winProperty 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

and analyst a TorFX, a cur-rency broker.a stronger pound, coupled with lower Spanish house pric-es in the wake of a seven-year crash, makes Spanish property seem much cheaper to British buyers, who have also watched

house prices surge at home, making property seem like a safe bet once again. On balance, a Conservative victory suggests a stronger pound in future, which, in turn, should boost demand for property on the Costa del Sol.The only possible thing which might influence British de-

mand is the in-out referen-dum Cameron promised on EU membership promised by 2017. Would leaving the EU reduce British demand for property in the EU, including Spain? My guess is yes, but I also sus-

pect the British will vote to stay in the EU, particularly with the sheer amount of business bosses vying for it, so I don’t think the Tory victory will reduce demand for this reason . In the meantime, a stron-ger pound , if that’s what

we get, is almost sure to help lift British demand for holi-day homes on the Costa del Sol.good times ahead.

Mark Stucklin runs www.spanishpropertyinsight.com

COSTa FaN: David Cameron has visited at least three times

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, sur-veyors and builders.Next it will be the interior designers and fur-niture 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, pay-cheques 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 MarkStucklin, 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 [email protected] or contact 951273575.

Jon Clarke, Publisher

23www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015Property 3 the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

NEWS IN BRIEF

Happy BankersTHE 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 putTHE 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.

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 com-pany of Zara – is set for a €300 million cash injection as he lines up the sale of The Q com-mercial centre on luxury Berlin shopping street Friedrichstrasse. The retail magnate bought the 50,000 square metre property for €275 million in 2007, mean-ing he will bag €25 million in profit. Moving ever onward and upward, Ortega is re-portedly also lining up a bid in excess of €500 million for the Primark building on London’s Oxford Street.

Berlin bonus 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, accord-ing 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 over-seas mortgage enquiries increase by 41% over the first three months of this year. Portugal, Italy and Tur-key make up the top five destinations for Brits looking to buy abroad.

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

Spanish sweetheart

Friedrichstrasse, all but de-stroyed 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.

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

An InternationalAssociate of Savills

Offices at the Puente Romano Hotel & opposite the Marbella Club HotelTel. (+34) 952 863 750 [email protected] www.panorama.es

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

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

MARBELLA EAST Contemporary style 3-bedroom 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

ALHAMBRA DEL MAR Renovated beachside 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

Enclosed: 198 m²Terrace: 33 m²Price: € 975,000

Enclosed: 416 m²Plot: 2,200 m²Terrace: 160 m²Price: € 1,500,000

Enclosed: 206 m²Plot: 800 m²Terrace: 127 m²Price: € 1,050,000

Enclosed: 187 m²Terrace: 128 m²Price: € 1,675,000

www.theolivepress.es

CONSTRUCTION giant Taylor Wimpey is benefiting from a renewed property boom by launching the construction of 59 terraced houses in Este-pona.In a €12 million deal with Estepona Golf, the company is set to build 800 new homes, plus a hotel with 400 bed-rooms, by the end of 2016. The plan is in line with healthy growth the company is seeing in Andalucia this year.

Works halted by the crisis are now being brought back to life, explains Regional Director, Ignacio Osle. “The first quarter

of 2015 saw a 15% in-crease in sales... and there is a big scar-city of good existing homes, which has led to a greater interest in new builds.“The type of housing at Estepona Golf has

not been built on the Costa del Sol since before the crisis started eight years ago.”

DRIvINg aHEaD

PROPERTY PICKTHE average price of second-hand

homes in Spain increased by 1.1% to € 1,636 per m2 in April, following seven months of consecutive decline.

NEW HOMES: Estepona Golf

24 www.theolivepress.esthe Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

Ulf’s father Kjell set up An-dalucia 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 reno-vated 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

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 internation-al market in Spain is doing very well. The Swiss franc is going up, and the pound is also go-ing 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

LPa: a solid code of ethics and only experienced agentsThe 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

THE 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 to-gether, extending their reach and increasing their effectiveness, via shared networks and resources.Established by some of the longest-estab-lished 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 in-cluding Casares, Estepona, and Sotogrande.

ProfessionalMembership works on an invitation-only

LPa MEMBER: Ulf Hessedahl – andalucia Development

predict exactly what is going to happen. There has been a slight slow down in Scandi-navian purchases because of the Euro, while the British clients have grown”

LPa MEMBER: Oscar Ernstsen – villas and Fincas

basis, meaning any poten-tial new members have to meet the same exacting standards of quality, pro-fessional service practised by the area’s most repu-table 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 mem-bers abide by a code of eth-ics that serves as the ‘rule book’ for the association, including such require-ments as playing an active role in the communities where they work and hav-ing in-depth knowledge of the areas they cover.They must also always act honestly, honourably, and transparently in their dealings with buyers, sell-ers, fellow agents, and anyone with whom they do business.

InterestsThey must also avoid ag-gressive marketing tech-niques, 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 competi-tors equitably and openly, while keeping the interests of buyers and sellers first and foremost.LPA members not only share information on the properties they, individu-ally, have listed on their books, but also share their experience, insight, and knowledge about the mar-plenty of peace and quiet

to retreat too – but, funnily enough, less Russians re-cently.” Turn to Page 7

Property4 the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015www.theolivepress.es

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 talk-ing 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 mem-ber, you have to earn it

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

Six reasons to use the LPa

25www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015Property 3www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015

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 prop-erty 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.”

LPa Member: adam Neale – Terra Meridiana

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

STUNNING: This amazing 18th century, 18 bedroom country estate, near Arcos de la Fron-

tera is for sale at €9m through LPA member Villas and Fincas

26 www.theolivepress.esthe Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015 www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 201526 Property

Andalucia DevelopmentCentro Comercial Plaza 63, 29660 Nueva Andalucia, Marbella

[email protected] www.andadev.com

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 Bathrooms: 5Guest Toilets: 1 Plot: 2.560Terrace: 162 Built: 976

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

595.000 €Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3Terrace: 145 Built: 200 Guest Toilets: 1 Construct Year: 2005 Community Fees: 600 € /Month Garbage Tax: 180 €/YearLocal Rates (IBI): 900 €/Year

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

347.500 €Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2Terrace: 20 Built: 90Construct Year: 1975 Community Fees: 235 € /Month Garbage Tax: 186 €/YearLocal Rates (IBI): 970 €/Year

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.

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

ket and about clients’ needs.This includes keeping abreast of le-gal and administrative changes that could affect buyers, sellers, land-lords 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 re-lationships, rather than ‘churning and burning’.

ImpartialIn 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 look-ing 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 pro-vide all the advice and guidance you need to achieve the best pos-sible sale price for your property.

Peruvian Consuelo Silva’s ar-rived in Marbella in 1986 be-fore 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 occa-sions where expensive prop-erties 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.”

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 cri-sis is over and prices are on the move upwards. This realisation creates a confi-dence 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 environ-ment with great winter weather… They are the last nationality in Europe to enter the market here in strength.”

LPa MEMBER: Christopher Clover - Panorama

No time wasters allowed

LPa MEMBER: Consuelo Silva – Consuelo Silva Real Estate

From Page 4

Property 7 the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015www.theolivepress.es

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

28 www.theolivepress.esthe Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015 the Olive Press May 13th - 8

Expat buying boom

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

FOREIGN buyers are back, big-time, adding a welcome boost to the Span-ish property market.Last year, a total of 4,397 proper-

ties were sold to non-residents in Spain, a 7.4% increase on 2013 and 22% more than 2012. In the case of agent RE/MAX Top, which has offices in Marbella and Malaga, for-eign buyers make up the vast majority of their clients. “Around 80% of purchas-ers in our Marbella office and 50% of purchasers in our Malaga office are foreign,” says RE/MAX Top CEO Miguel Bilbao. “With tourism on the increase again and another record summer expected, we predict a high volume of summer tourists looking at property while they are here,

particularly from the UK where the strong pound makes the investment even more ap-pealing.”A large percentage of purchases in 2014 were for top level, luxury properties, located

in high-end tourist areas such as the Costa del Sol.

“There’s definitely more de-mand for the best properties and those in the most desir-able areas are selling fast,” adds Bilbao.“However there’s also a lot of interest in the lower end of the market for the more

affordable properties in ar-eas, such as the east of Malaga,

where we’ve seen a lot of demand from over-50s British buyers.”

For more info email [email protected] or visit www.remaxtop.es

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

We

predict a high volume of summer tourists looking at

property

w w w . p r i v a t e o f f i c e m a r b e l l a . c o m

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

AFTER 10 years of experience and dedication as a franchise licens-ee of Engel & Volkers, Ivonne Panhuis sold her licence to set up her own company Private Office Marbella Prime Homes focus-sing 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 cus-tomers, 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, reli-ability 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!

view from the top of the market

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!

a different world

aDVERTORIaL

aDVERTORIaL

29www.theolivepress.es 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.

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

ContaCt us today! email - [email protected] • Call - 952 906 201

Find us in Marbella on the Golden Mile, opposite LidlBulevar 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 Remaxtopspain • www.remaxtop.es

price: 650,000€

Are you selling your property?Do you want a top team of professionals behind you?sell your property with re/MAX top And get the best service, support And eXposure

RE/MaX top will• Employ a professional photographer• Market your property throughout Europe• Ensure maximum online exposure• Give you the right valuation to sell• Support you every step of the way

ContaCt us toDay anD Let us heLp you seLL your property!

Visit our Marbella or Malaga officegive us a call - 952 906 201email - [email protected]

www.remaxtop.es

Looking for Talented Sales People to Join Our Team

we hAve More leAds thAn we cAn hAndle And give you the best possible

opportunity to sellBasic salary and attractive commissions available

Don’t let your employer limit your earning potential, join re/MaX top – we provide the leads and the opportunities for success.

please forward your CV to: [email protected]

Are you passionate about real estate?

We neeD you!

Remax_OP_full_256x342_print.indd 1 08/05/15 11:59

30 www.theolivepress.esthe Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015Property Now30 Property6 www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015


aN Olive Press investigation exposing law-yers 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 le-gal 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 ille-gal 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-

Strength in numbersOlive Press K.O. the kickbacks campaign marches on

K.O. the kickbacksfends 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 law-yers 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, de-mand or accept commissions or other mon-ies from another lawyer, or any other per-son for having sent a client or recommend-ing 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’

list of ethical lawyers and estate agents email [email protected] or call 951273575.

Showing their support:Law firmsMy Lawyer in SpainLawbirdMT Legalanderson PCLTemple CambriaGutierrez del Alamo & Martos AbogadosPoveda & Associates LawyersParadigm Family LawC&S AbogadosBench & CoCosta de la Luz LawyersSolis abogadosVicente & Otaolaurruchi AbogadosRamon C. Pelayo Abogados

Estate agents Terra MeridianaCluttonsPanorama PropertiesHudson International PropertiesInland andaluciaAylesford InternationalInmobiliaria PartaloaLiving Life Property Consultants SLInmobiliaria andaluciaPropertiespain

Other groups AUAN

IT’S a big birthday for Mijas Properties, cele-brating 30 happy years of helping homebuy-ers 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 wed-dings and special celebrations for clients and counts on great contacts for florists, ca-tering, beauty and venues – not to mention their classic Daimler car.

www.mijasproperties.com

Spring has sprung

IF you’re on the lookout for an authentic Spanish cor-tijo, villa or traditional town house, Undiscovered Spain is right up your street.In partnership with Grupo Inmobiliario Une, this An-dalucian agent specialises in stunning rural properties throughout the region at af-fordable 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 prop-erties that are ideal for start-ing up a rural tourism busi-ness, as well as ‘cortijos’ for reform. Investors are flocking to take advantage of Undiscov-ered Spain’s buy-to-let pro-gramme, 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 [email protected]

The discovery channel

Property 11 the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015www.theolivepress.es

32 www.theolivepress.esthe Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015 Property Now32

33www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015 9www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015Property

ROUNDING the final cor-ner of the ancient Ro-man road into the hill-top village of Gaucin,

you could be forgiven for think-ing 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 brav-ing 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 Ja-mie 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 Grana-da 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 So-theby’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-exclusiv-ity.Money cannot always buy this tranquility and the supermar-ket tycoon – worth a cool €1 billion – would know.This property, alongside count-less 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 cer-emony in 2009.There is something in the de-scription 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

Or maybe it is the overwhelm-ing 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 Ro-man castle and watered by the cleanest river in Europe, Gaucin perches aloof and un-touched 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 meander-ing through the ceramic lizard-lined 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 se-clusion.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 wear-ing your seatbelt when you are distracted by the breathtaking views!

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

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 ooz-ing 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.

How deep are your pockets?

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

VaRIED: From budget to bling

13


HOMESELLERS REPORT


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

umn.It’s his Google Analytics home page and, per-haps no surprise, almost every entry has a plus sign...and a big plus at that.It is all part of the masterplan for Scott Mar-shall’s highly successful real estate business Propertiespain.With an incredible 20-something websites - all

Mr Boom of BenahavisWith 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 cli-ents 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 his mother website www.propertiespain.com.“It’s taken a long time to build so it is very ex-citing that it is all now working,” explains the amicable agent, 40, who has lived in Benaha-vis for most of his life. “It is an incredible tool that really helps me

understand what my clients are looking for,” he adds.Marshall, who is married to a local Spanish girl, grew up and has lived in Benahavis his entire life, except one year living on an oil rig off Scotland after his degree in mechanical engineering. “It was only after a spend-ing a year in aberdeen that I realised what a great quality of life we have here,” he ex-plained. So I came straight back out here and started working for a company, sell-ing entertainment systems along the coast, before going into real estate in Mijas.”Now the proud owner of one of the Costa del Sol’s most thriving agencies, Scott’s love for his home town is very clear.“People always talk about

Marbella and Estepona, but I think Benahavis is the real hidden gem of the coast,” he says. “The town hall is the wealthiest per inhabitant in the whole of Spain, which means there are all sorts of subsidies here that just don’t exist anywhere else.”So when he decided to set up a property busi-ness in 2009, there was no better place for it to be based. “It was such an easy decision for me to set up here, because I’ve spent nearly all my life here,” he says.

The son of well-known local sculptor David Marshall, Scott spent nine

years managing three real estate businesses in Mi-jas Costa and Torrox, for a UK-based firm. When the company folded in 2009, Scott decided that now was

the time to go it alone.“Everyone thought I was

crazy setting up right in the middle of the financial

crisis. But in the first year alone I made back everything I had invest-ed, and since then we’ve more or less doubled our business year on year.”Nestled in the mountainside only sev-en kilometres from the coast, Benaha-vis is home to nine golf courses and so many restaurants that it is often called the dining room of the Costa del Sol.Propertiespain takes advantage of the region’s diverse geography to offer a huge variety of properties, from well-

priced or luxury apartments to mountainside villas and mansions, and everything in be-tween.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 Scot-land 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 fa-ther.“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 Brit-ish 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

Most

importantly, the British buyers are

up by 25 to 30% this year alone

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: [email protected]

INCREDIBLE DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY


36 www.theolivepress.esthe Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015Property Now www.theolivepress.es March 201536

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 com-bined with rock bottom prices.It also helps that we are the longest estab-lished 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 shap-ing 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.

Q: any gripes?

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

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

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: are the banks helping out?

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 prop-erty prices, low borrowing interest rates, coupled with high demand from purchas-ers, 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 mil-lion this year, we see that the average sales price per property, from our Malaga region-al 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.

Happy days up here!

DREAM ESCAPES: Inland Andalucia has some of Spain’s most stunning rural properties on its books


Inland Andalucia Head Office in Spain +34 952 741 525 Calle de la Villa 14, 29532 Mollina, for Málaga & SevillaCórdoba, Granada and Jaén Regions +34 953 587 040 Calle Abad Moya 4 bajo, 23680 Alcalá la Real, JaénEmail: [email protected]



PROPERTY FOCUS

Title deeds

A 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 descen-dant of the Mendoza fam-ily 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 own-ers to buy into their idyllic life-style 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 ‘im-possible’ task but after two years chasing shadows, they traced the title deeds to a Duke. “The house is steeped in his-tory,” 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 ru-mours that it was owned by a nun, then we were told the house belonged to ‘Don Kilo-watio’ 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.

If you’re looking for a noble country seat, this heritage finca with a blue-

blooded history could fulfill your wildest dreams for just €320,000

With 25 hectares of fertile land and two farmhouses of 250m2 (renovated) and 200m2 (pre-renovated), this rural idyll is set in breathtak-ing 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 bor-der of the farm, and Shafik and Doris have harvested 5,000 kilos of chestnuts every year.

PICTURESQUE: Views from La Rosa


It is also a perfect retreat for hunt-ers, hikers, fishers, skiers and all-round nature enthusiasts. As Shafik explains: “The place has something for everyone and there are plenty of hidden cor-ners waiting to be discovered. “It is great for people who love horse riding as well, the place is open and wild, waiting to be ex-plored. 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 want-ed 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 one-and-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, bed-room 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 [email protected]

WITH over 175 years of real estate experience and 90 branch-es 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.”

Boom time

TAKING care of safety in one of the Costa del Sol’s most exclu-sive enclaves of El Madronal, Fuengirola security company STaRPROTEC is an impressive get-up.Small but well-established (since 2000), the service is triple pronged: offer-ing guards, install-ing 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 rob-bery 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.”

Ready, set, protect!


LOS MONTEROS from €200,000 (£147,757) * REF: WW286

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.

ESTEPONA €225,000 (£166,227)* REF: WW292

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.

BENAHAVIS €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.

ESTEPONA from €207,000 (£152,929) * REF: WW247

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.

MIJAS COSTA from €245,000 (£181,003)* REF: WW217

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.

GUADALMINA ALTA €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.

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

tel: +34 952 880 [email protected] www.winkworth.es

40 www.theolivepress.esthe Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015 www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015Property20

TODAY’S Costa del Sol property mar-ket 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 ex-timeshare agencies with their ‘sling-enough-mud-at-the-wall-and-see-what-sticks’ atti-tude have now gone into liquidation.While they tarnished everyone’s reputations, we - and many other leading agents - in con-trast operate a very professional and transpar-ent 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 prop-erties 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 advis-ing buyers and investors on which property is best suited to their personal needs or what is best for rental or long term capi-tal growth, all very differ-ent acquisitions.

I have based my career around property, which is still one of the safest - and most lu-crative - 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 prop-erty 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 per-sonally heavily investing in property again.

Contact Peter on 951 551 444 or email: i n f o @ O v e r s e a s -Dreams.com

The time is NOW!Spanish property expert Peter Bowerman on the strengthening

Costa Del Sol market and how best to invest in it

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

WHETHER 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 in-vestors 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 East-ern 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.

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

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

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

16years

essentialmagazine ®

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

A bargain at €18million

41www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015Property 17

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.

€ 225,000 TOP809

Stunning Pad Near Banus

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.

€ 2.649,000 TOP777

Stunning Marbella Villa

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.

€ 299,500 TOP374Bargain Villa – Forced Sale

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.

€ 411,000 - 644,500 TOP677

Luxury Puerto Banus Penthouse

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.

€ 595,000 TOP849

Stunning Villa & Price Reduction

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.

€ 98,000 - 165,000 TOP421

Best Value for Money on the Coast

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.

€ 125,000 - € 210,000 TOP842

Brand New Benalmadena Bank Release!

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.

€ 349,000 TOP852

Bargain Beach Town Villa

Overseas Dreams is an established & professionalreal estate agency, covering all the Costa del Sol.With registered offices both in Marbella & La Cala.We offer all types of property from bank clearancedeals to the most prestigious Marbella mansions.

Our professional team will guide you throughthe whole process, from viewings to completion,introducing reliable english speaking lawyers andfinancial advsiors, best furniture companies etc

Contact us now to discuss your overseas dreams.

[email protected]

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

PROMOTION OF THE MONTH 40% OFF OUR SELLING FEES

SELL YOUR HOME FOR ONLY 3% +IVAWe 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.

Overseas DreamsCOSTA DEL SOLREAL ESTATE / INMOBILIARIA

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.

€ 116,900 TOP435

Bank Repossession Clearance Deals

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.

€ 1.195,000 TOP787Contemporary Luxury Villa Deal

42 www.theolivepress.esthe Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 201542 Property the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 201518

EXPANDING: Kent and Olle at the new Estepona office

WITH its stylish de-cor, ample space and clever use of natural

light, it would certainly win an award for one of the hip-pest real estate offices on the coast.And, of course - being Swed-ish - 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 Wester-ling, 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 Nue-va 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 fastWhile 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 Esteponaing 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 Scandina-vian clients, but the British market, both with sellers and buyers, is growing fast,” ex-plains 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 be-tween 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 of-fice 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 re-alised we were already selling a lot of property in Estepona from our Marbella office and figured we should get a de-cent central office here too. “Come along and meet us and see what we can do for you.”

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

Property22

43www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 201543 Property the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 201518

FASTIGHETSBYRÅN MARBELLA 951 191 000 / FASTIGHETSBYRÅN ESTEPONA 952 807 [email protected] / FASTIGHETSBYRAN.SE/OVERSEAS

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...

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.

44 www.theolivepress.esthe Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 2015Property Now www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press May 13th - May 27th 201544

Top Dollar

Documents

Olive Press Property magazine Issue 2