One-2-Property

During the boom economy it was hard enough to climb onto the real estate ladder to buy a first home, let alone a vacation property with an ocean view or ski-slope access. But the economic crisis has brought a bit of sunshine for investors who in the recent past have been priced out of top markets like Verbier, the Riviera, Tuscany and the Caribbean. “There are more properties coming onto the market than we have seen for a very long time,” says Alexander Kraft, CEO of Sotheby’s International Realty in France. “And there are great deals to be had.”

That’s fantastic news for people like me. Last spring, standing on a cliff overlooking some of the more extraordinary villas near Es Cubells beach in Ibiza, I promised myself that one day I was going to own a vacation home. Maybe it would be on one of the enchanting Balearic Islands, or possibly in south Florida—Miami or Naples—where hot weather is guaranteed most of the year (though the charming hills of the Scottish Highlands and the desolate islands off Croatia have also stirred my heart). At the time, I did not think I could begin to look at options until several years down the line. But now, with the market for second homes softening fast, even freelance journalists like me can start realistically toying with the idea. I’ve got my eye on the stunning Zen Vida property in Majorca, which boasts five bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, three al fresco dining areas and a designer kitchen, as well as spectacular views of the Bay of Palma. Then again, it’s tough to pass up Théole-sur-Mer, the estate built in 1925 on a private peninsula near Cannes by the architect Barry Dierks, which offers an infinity pool and direct diving into the Mediterranean. (Both are offered through www.savills.co.uk/abroad; prices are available upon application.)

Marc Cohen, director of Ledbury Research, the London-based luxury consultancy, says that those who would normally not be able to afford a second home may gain the most from the global economic downturn. “The second-home market has suffered considerably,” he says. “If there is an active buyer, the type will have changed from the typical 65-year-old retiree who has sold his business or retired from a high-salaried job to one who is much younger who has seen this become more of an opportunity.”
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The new year seems to be the perfect moment to start looking, says Lucy Russell, managing director of Quintessentially Estates (quintessentiallyestates .com). “Some of the very top-end properties have dropped significantly in most of the major European destinations,” she says. “[And] we have seen houses in the Caribbean drop by half a million dollars, giving the buyer a good rate of return.” In places like Spain, Malta and Portugal, there have been price drops of up to 30 percent for vacation homes. Three-bedroom, eco-friendly beachfront villas in the Joia das Dunas development northwest of Lisbon are selling for between €625,000 and €895,000. And in speculative markets—residences that are still under development, or areas like Dubai that are relatively new to second-home splurges—prices have dropped by up to 60 percent. Not that everything is a bargain; currently on the market in the Emirates Hills neighborhood of Dubai is an 8,170-square-meter, seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom villa complete with gym, cinema, sauna, steam room and two maids’ bedrooms for €5.8 million by Quintessentially Estates.

Sotheby’s Kraft says that for the last decade a villa with an ocean view in Cap Ferrat rarely stayed on the market for more than a week. Now such properties take much longer to sell. “Lots of sellers are getting flexible with prices, and owners, especially those from emerging economies, are willing to make a deal like maybe they would not have in the past,” he says. Take, for example, a lovely Tuscan home, on the market through Savills. The property, which overlooks Lake Montedoglio near Arezzo, has four fully restored buildings, a large swimming pool and oodles of privacy. But the owners are so keen to sell, they have already dropped the price by €1 million, to €2.2 million. “Over the past three years we have seen very substantial price rises in key destinations—and a corresponding drop in sales volume—so I think the readjustment was needed,” says Savills’ Charles Weston-Baker. “Each of us has an innate sense of value perception, and a lot of properties have just gone beyond what people are comfortable paying.” Weston-Baker speculates that those who can afford it will hold on to their second homes until the market rebounds. “But those who do need to sell will do so for substantially less than they would have six months ago,” he says. Es Cubells residents, watch out—my moving van may be speeding down the road sooner than you think.

One-2-Property

The past 10 years have seen an increase in the interest, purchase and benefit of buying a property abroad. The late 90’s and early part of the 21st century has seen house prices surge in the Western countries to record heights, this together with the ever increasing number of the low cost airline destinations has given the average family the excess equity in their existing homes and easier access to be able to think about buying and perhaps living overseas.

We have all been on a holiday to some exciting destination, be it Europe, The Americas or even exotic Asian and Pacific countries, and whenever we see a local estate agent we always make a beeline for their shop window if not to compare the prices to back home then certainly to see how and what we could afford -  without really considering the possibilities.

The main question we at One-2-Property are asked by potential investors and holiday home seekers is “where should we buy”? A difficult question to answer as everybody’s idea of owning overseas investment property or off plan developments is completely different. We have a series of questions that we ask our clients to consider when thinking of buying abroad which include:

* Budget - how much do you want to or can you spend. Do you need a mortgage or finance?
* Location - is location important for you? Beach, countryside or town?
* Use - personal for holidays or purely investment or a bit of both?
* Access - is getting to your property easily and cheaply important to you?
* Employment - will you need to work what is the employment situation?
* Schooling - do you need to consider such things as schooling for your children?
* Size - will a one bed apartment be big enough or do you need to consider a 4 bed town house or villa?
* Rentability - is it going to be a necessity to rent your property out to help with mortgage payments?

Although we have many different websites and feature over thousands of properties for sale in different countries abroad no two inquiries are ever the same and as such we treat each inquiry on a personal basis. We feature properties for sale directly from local owners and developers in each country.
What about the legalities

Buying a property abroad can be relatively straightforward and we can help - there is nothing really complicated as long as you follow instructions and use a reliable legal representative - whether they are from the country concerned or from your home country - it will certainly make you feel more at ease and will help things to run smoothly. We feature various articles and information on buying property abroad on our website and apart from various little peculiarities in certain countries most overseas property purchases can run smoothly.

Mortgages
Financing your overseas property is a lot easier now than it was a couple of years ago. Mortgages for buying property abroad can be arranged through One-2-Property or local banks. A typical loan to value %’s can range from 50 - 60% depending on the country.

Insurance
As with all major purchases insurance must play a part in your overall budget plan. We would strongly recommend that adequate property and contents insurance is taken out to cover your investment as it grows. Although you don’t anticipate any problems arising with your new home you certainly want to ensure that your investment is covered against loss and damage.

As we become more and more daring in our ventures of overseas holidays then the general public will continue to conquer new and exciting areas of the globe in which to lay their foundations of a holiday home or indeed a permanent residence abroad. Whatever your reasons are for considering a move abroad then remember there’s only one company out there that can offer direct access to thousands of properties for sale in the hottest destinations Tel: +66807007900

One-2-Property Spain

More than 1.2 million passengers jetted out to the country from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen airports in 2008, their operator BAA Scotland said.

This was twice as many as the Netherlands, which was second, while Ireland was third.

France and Germany overtook the USA, rising to fourth and fifth.

Norway also entered the top 10 for the first time.

Four of Spain’s airports - Alicante, Malaga, Tenerife and Palma - were among the top 10 destinations flown to by Scottish travellers.

It seems that Spain is as popular now with Scots as it has ever been Donald Morrison BAA Scotland

The most popular single destination was Amsterdam, with 530,000 Scots travelling there.

The Dutch capital is a popular tourist city in its own right - but is also a major international hub for onward connections.

Dublin was the second most visited city, with Paris jumping from sixth place last year to third place this year, with its numbers being boosted by new services from Glasgow.

BAA Scotland spokesman Donald Morrison said: “It seems that Spain is as popular now with Scots as it has ever been, and with the top three most popular countries unchanged from last year, you could argue that we are becoming creatures of habit.

“However, with France and Germany knocking the US - traditionally one of our most popular tourist markets - into sixth place, and Norway entering the top ten for the first time, perhaps tastes are beginning to change.”

Newark airport in New York was the most popular long haul destination, followed by Dubai, Orlando Sanford and Toronto.

New services

The Egyptian resort of Sharm El Sheikh entered the top five for the first time, while New York’s JFK airport and the Caribbean resort of Puerto Plata made their first appearance in the top 10.

Airport operator BAA Scotland said it aimed to defy the credit crunch by increasing capacity in 2009, despite the economic slowdown which has seen worldwide airline cuts.

Almost half a million extra seats will be on sale from its three Scottish airports, with new services to Norway, Canada, the Caribbean and other destinations.

Mr Morrison said: “There is no doubt that 2008 was a challenging year for the airline industry in Scotland, and 2009 will be no less difficult.

“With demand falling, and airlines around the world reducing capacity, Scotland is not immune to the current economic decline.

“However, with almost half a million new seats on sale in 2009, we have shown that it is possible to attract new business, offering more choice for Scottish holidaymakers and boosting inbound tourism.”

One-2-Property Spain

Charming country style villa with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, situated in the exceptional urbanisation “El Madroñal” in a tranquil surrounding of nature on a plot of 1.200 m2 with 192,77 m2 of construction, orientated to the south with breathtaking, panoramic views to the Mediterranean and the mountains, “La Concha”, Gibraltar and Africa, and only some minutes away from the little village San Pedro, municipality of Marbella.

Contact Sales@12property.com

After a little hall entering to the “L” shaped cosy decorated salon with dining there is direct access to the terraces BBQ, and outside covered dining, closed to the fully equipped kitchen. The house has been recently refurbished with modern fittings in new bathrooms and showers with marble floors and walls. Under floor central heating all over, double glassed windows, double garage, carport, swimmingpool and cellar makes this villa a perfect home not only for holiday makers but also for permanent residents. Good investment to let!

The very name evokes images of romantic days under the sun and the sea, set against the spectacular backdrop of the Sierra Blanca Mountains. Marbella sits 25 miles southwest of Malaga, right at the heart of the Costa del Sol, which is renowned for being one of Spain’s major tourism areas. Marbella is among the most important destinations on the Costa del Sol.

Marbella’s coastline stretches for miles upon miles – sandy beaches and coves beckon you to have a good time in their warm embrace.

At Marbella, old meets new, traditions blend harmoniously with modern culture and comforts. Prepare to be dazzled by ritzy houses, huge yachts parked in swanky marinas, brand name stores, stylish restaurants and bars. But even with all the amenities and facilities customarily found in a top-rate resort, Marbella has maintained its old town ambience. It has, by some measure, escaped the ungainly effects of concrete development that is suffered by some of its neighbors.

It is a dazzling, cosmopolitan jewel of the Costa del Sol. It can certainly give the famed Monte Carlo a run for its money! Indeed, this is where the crème de la crème have the time of their lives.

Are you thinking, then, that Marbella may be too rich for your blood? That it may be too chi-chi for your taste? We hope not! Marbella is rich - rich in history, adventure and relaxation.

In Marbella, there is something for everybody. There is so much to do and see that you will not have time to get bored.

Historical Marbella

Visit traditional Marbella at the Old Quarter district. Here, around the Plaza de los Naranjos, you can see quite a number of imposing structures and buildings. In this part of town, you get a distinct feel of how Marbella lived in the past centuries.

When visiting Marbella, be sure to see the Plaza de Toros (Marbella’s site for the not so politically correct sport of bullfighting). Then, there is the Basilica Vega del Mar, which is the site of many archaeological excavations. In fact, this Basilica is made up of a 4th century church’s ancient ruins. Marbella has a lot of archeological gems. Aside from the Basilica Vega del Mar, there are quite a number of historic remains and ruins, such as the Marbella vaults and the Villa Romana de Rio Verde.

Relaxing Marbella

Marbella is paradise! With its 16 miles of coastline and near-perfect weather, who would not want to go to the beach and soak up the sun? Then there is the “Golden Mile”, which is the playground of the rich and the famous. Take a walk along the Paseo Maritimo – the renowned Marbella boardwalk that spans the Marbella beachfront and provides you with exceptional views of the coast. And, mmmmm, take a bite of the sumptuous and delectable food offerings. Your stomach will truly be one “happy place”.

Marbella also has a long list of parks, gardens and leisure areas. These delightfully mix beauty with leisure. Each place has a unique contribution to make.

Adventurous Marbella

As if these weren’t enough, Marbella also offers something for the adventurous spirit. It is paradise for sports lovers and those who want to learn more about their sport. Marbella has a lot of sports clubs that will teach you a wide variety of sports – lawn tennis, horseback riding and other equestrian sports, wind surfing, sailing an a whole lot more. Marbella’s surrounding areas also lends itself to mountain climbing, hiking, and biking activities.

Ah… Marbella! Prepare to be enchanted. After your stay, you will surely agree with the name Marbella – Beautiful Sea, Beautiful Place!

Marbella Villa

Country style villa perched on the quiet hillsides boasting uninterrupted panoramic view to the sea. Gibraltar and African coastline, yet enjoying good road connections and very close to Marbella centre and traditional village of Ojén. Nestling in the dramatic country side of Marbella.

This charming 4-level home is enhanced by numerous terraces and picture windows to take advantage of the coastal view from this elevated position. The inviting entrance hall equipped with guest toilet, welcomes guests into this lovely home.

 The ample drawing room has a fireplace and large windows capturing the property’s privileged views. The eat-in kitchen with beamed ceiling is superbly designed with white cabinetry, granite counters and Smeg appliances. The master bedroom with fireplace, wood beamed vaulted ceiling, open terrace and small balcony occupies the entire upper level. It also feature a bathroom en-suite with Jacuzzi and huge shower, marble walls, there are six further guest bedrooms and two additional sitting rooms, kitchen, laundry, guest W.C., Finnish sauna, wine cellar, and storeroom.

The property is gated and offers total privacy, pool with preinstallation heating, terracotta flooring, aged marble, antique doors, alarm system, oil fiered central heating, water tank, two S.T. double glazed windows with mosquito nets, 2-car garage and driveway.

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Sales@12property.com

One-2-Property Spain

Spain’s super-rich will emerge as the key investors in its troubled property sector next year and would do well to take up positions in the office market, the head of consultants Cushman & Wakefield said on Monday. Roger Cooke, Cushman’s managing partner in Spain, said traditional investors like German property funds had the money but not the ability to open new funds in Spain, while private equity buyers were still waiting on the sidelines to swoop on distressed assets. “I expect that in the early part of next year, Spanish private families will be the strongest investors in the market,” he told Reuters in an interview in Madrid. Spain’s richest individuals, such as Amancio Ortega, the owner of Inditex (ITX.MC: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz), famous for its Zara fashion chain, have long targeted the property market and have a tradition of more hands-on involvement than others in Europe, who pass investment decisions to fund managers. “They’ve got the money, yields have adjusted, they are not looking for really distressed levels of pricing, so there’s more on offer,” said Cooke. Investment in smaller lots of up to 50 million euros would be the trend next year, as they are easier to finance and match the buying power of family firms. Cooke added that office space was probably the best defensive bet in the downturn. “I suspect the office market will begin to return before the retail market. We haven’t seen the last of retail sales problems, and the office market (in Madrid and Barcelona) is not oversupplied like it has been in previous cycles,” he said, adding that office leases had fallen by 35 to 45 percent this year. “I think the first half of 2011 will be quite an interesting time to be delivering a building.” Retailers’ hesitancy to occupy new units and tenants pushing for rent cuts as consumer sales weaken, put pressure on shopping centre investments, he said.

Spain’s 10-year residential property boom was snuffed out this year by massive oversupply, rising interest rates and the credit crunch, while the commercial business caught the same cold sweeping global property markets.

“There is a complete lack of confidence, and that applies across the board, whether it be residential, development, occupational. The whole Spanish market is very uncertain.” The sector racked up billions of euros of debt in a wave of ambitious expansion, and Cooke said funding that debt while revenues shrivelled had turned almost every Spanish property firm into a stressed, though not distressed, seller of assets.

“Pretty much all have an interest in a sensible sale of assets. We are talking, quite literally, of survival in many cases.”

However, the market would not degenerate into a fire sale because banks would seek to avoid loading their balance sheets with toxic debt, he said.

“The banks are not letting them sell at any price. If you get to a situation where the banks push too far, and they don’t survive, is anything served by that?

“Whether we see more distressed sales next year all depends on the attitude of banks, regulators and even politicians.”