Learn about Life in Southern Spain

When you’re selling your home, the first meeting that you have with a real estate agent is often referred to as a listing consultation. During the visit, your agent will look at your property and learn more about your goals for selling. They will discuss your home's selling features with you and suggest simple improvements that could lift your price. They’ll also do a comparative market analysis (CMA), which looks at similar homes that have sold nearby, to determine a recommended price.
Before you put your home on the market, The Spanish Estate Agent suggests 7 steps below that will put you streets ahead when ready to put your property on market
7 Steps to a successful sale
Some of these might seem obvious but, trust us, we’ve seen it all…
Step 1 - Stock up on light bulbs. When showing your house to potential buyers, most rooms benefit from all lights being turned on.
Step 2 - Give your house a deep clean. First impressions mean a lot. So, don’t let pet smells, dirty windows or dust linger .
Step 3 - Declutter the home. Think ahead! You’ll be moving soon so now is a great time to start packing stuff you’ll keep, sell off or donate other items and bin the rubbish. It will let potential buyers imagine themselves in the spaceStep 4 - Call a handyman, get those odd jobs finally sorted! When getting a house ready to sell, you should have your handyman on speed dial. Make sure anything and everything that needs to be fixed (think locks, hardware, leaky taps, running toilets, cracks in the walls, broken appliances, etc.) is fixed before going live online.
Step 5 - Paint the walls but keep it calm and neutral. Most buyers want to see a blank canvas so that they can visualise how they are going to incorporate their own personal taste. It might seem boring if you love the brighter side of life but painting your house neutral colours gives your property the best chance of selling.
Step 6 - Stage your home. According to multiple studies, staging a home really can help it sell faster and for more money. Fresh new towels in the bathrooms, a few flowers in a vase, a cloth and bowl of fruit on the kitchen table - you know the thing!
Step 7 – Depersonalise your home - you want to strike the perfect balance between depersonalization impersonal and the appearance of a warm, welcoming home. This means putting away most framed photos, bulletin boards and personal items (think photo albums, magazines, toys, awards, etc.) throughout the home. Leave a few nice framed photos around the house to make the home more inviting.

The good news is that travel to Spain is possible right now for the purpose of buying or selling a property.

How it works:

• Go to this website, fill in the form and you’ll receive a QR code that is specific you you and your trip. Keep that on your mobile phone or print it to show at the airport health control.
• You’ll need a negative result to a PCR test carried out less than 72 hours before arrival. This applies also to travelers entering by road from France as of March 30. Children under the age of six are exempt.
• There is no quarantine on entry into Spanish territory at present.
  
  

Spring is the perfect time to do some deep cleaning and annual maintenance around your home. If you have selling on your mind, this is the first step in the process.
The spring buying season is in full swing, and now is the time to make sure you're market-ready.

Freshen up your curb appeal
If a house looks less than lovely from the outside, you’ll find that it’s nearly impossible to get buyers to step inside and take a look. Taking the time to do some outdoor chores not only makes the home more attractive, but it can also increase its value. In fact, homes with high curb appeal tend to sell for about 7% more than similar homes with an uninviting exterior.
Quick fixes include clean windows, a few pots of colourful flowers, a freshly painted front door and a well groomed front garden.
Get those potential buyers seeing the best of your property.

Contact Details:
W: https://www.thespanishestateagent.com/en/
E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
M: +34 951 516 905

After several long weeks of lockdown, we are delighted to see the easing of some restrictions. We can now make individual APPOINTMENTS with clients to view properties (making sure we follow the social distancing guidelines).

Please contact us today to arrange virtual viewings before an actual appointment. Many new properties now offer 500€ REFUNDABLE RESERVATION deposits to lock in a price and a property. Get the first pick of the best deals on the Costa del Sol.

Brit's access to Healthcare and Pensions in Spain Now Guaranteed until December 2020

Spain recently announced a royal decree to limit the impact of a no-deal Brexit on British expats that own property in Spain. They will guarantee healthcare provision and access to the social security system, which gives rights to pensions, until December 31st 2020. This will be a big relief to the 300,000 Britons, many of which are pensioners, living on the Costas who rely on access to local hospitals and doctors.

The bonfire-shaped piles of driftwood on the beach near Manilva, Costa Del Sol, reminded us of ‘home’...briefly.
This is mostly bamboo washed ashore in a recent storm. It’s hard to imagine that it was so wet here so recently.
It’s done a lot of good in greening up the ‘campo’, or countryside. And now we are back to big blue skies and warm air.
That’s not smoke by the way, it’s a vapour trail. It’s a message. Jump on a plane....

November 2019, and the staff at the Ducquesa Chirungito (beach bar) between Sotogrande and Estepona set out sun beds in a pleasantly warm 20 degrees.
Send us your photos of similar events on a UK beach near you, and we’ll publish the best ones.
Only joking!!
Jump on a plane and come and buy a place here on the sunny Costa Del Sol.

If you are considering moving to Spain, you may have idly wondered how much Spanish you really need to speak to live here and be happy.

The answer, of course, is personal and subjective! Some British people can live in Spain for decades without venturing beyond simple greetings and questions - what they consider necessary to “get by”. You, however, might have a radically different view of what it means to “get by”. Maybe you would like to discuss local politics with your neighbours, or engage in conversation with your butcher about local recipes.

So it’s all still up in the air regarding the final outcome of the Brexit debacle.
The point-scoring rumbles on.

If you are a potential buyer, reading this, we sincerely hope you will NOT wait for the politicians to iron out the small print of our shared future over the next 20 or 30 years.

Let us offer you your own dedicated personal property consultant.
Push past the doubt.
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We stand ready to find you the right property and agree a great deal.
Then we’ll help you settle in.

Navigating property purchases in post-Brexit times may seem daunting, but you just need trusted advice.! At The Spanish Estate Agent, we're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way on your exciting new journey. With our wealth of experience and personalised service, we ensure a smooth and seamless transition into your dream property on the Costa del Sol.

Here's how we can assist you:

Property Search and Location Guidance

Let us help you find the perfect property tailored to your needs and preferences. Our expert team will advise you on the right location, ensuring your new home aligns perfectly with your lifestyle.

Legal Assistance

We'll connect you with reputable lawyers well-versed in Spanish property law to guide you through the purchasing process, providing peace of mind and clarity every step of the way.

Renovation Referrals

Looking to renovate your new property? We've got you covered. Our network includes trusted construction companies that can turn your vision into reality with precision and expertise.

Pet Relocation Services

Moving with furry friends? We understand the importance of their comfort and safety. Our recommendations for pet removal companies ensure a stress-free relocation for both you and your beloved pets.

Residencia Assistance

Need help applying for residencia? We've got the knowledge and resources to streamline the process, making your transition to Spanish residency as smooth as possible.

Area Insights

Explore the beauty of the Costa del Sol with our promotional videos showcasing different areas. Gain valuable insights into potential neighbourhoods and lifestyle offerings before making your decision.

With over 50 years of combined experience, The Spanish Estate Agent is committed to going the extra mile to exceed your expectations. Trust us to make your property buying experience in Spain not just successful, but truly exceptional.

It's a fact that shopping on the Costa del Sol (and in Spain in general) can be a cheap treat!  Prices compare favourably on the whole with those in the UK and the CdelS has some great malls where you can while away a few hours on those days when it is either too hot or too cold to be on the beach.

Plaza Mayor Shopping Centre
The Plaza Mayor is one of Andalusia’s largest shopping centres. It has dozens of shops and cinemas, a recreation area, a supermarket, cafes, restaurants and, in short, everything you need to enjoy a full day of shopping. It’s located only two kilometres from Malaga, and very close to Malaga-Costa del Sol airport. One of the essential places to visit if you’re going shopping on the Costa del Sol.

Miramar Shopping Centre
Miramar Shopping Centre, which was opened in 2004, is one of the largest shopping areas on the Costa del Sol, with a surface area of almost 120,000 m2. Its many different shops, restaurants and entertainment options make it a must for all tourists visiting Fuengirola. Certified by Trip Advisor in 2018 as an excellent shopping centre, it has 12 very well-equipped cinemas, a kids’ club and a Go-kart track with a junior and a children's track where a great time can be had by all.

La Cañada Shopping Centre
The La Cañada shopping precinct in Marbella covers more than 100,000 m2 with the best national and international stores across all departments.

Apple, Hugo Boss, Lacoste, Tous and the Inditex group brands are but a few examples of the centre’s extensive retail offering. To complement this there is a cinema complex, ample free parking and a varied choice of leisure and restaurant services.

Furthermore, there is a new and exclusive “personal shopper” service available which can help the customer find what they want.

At TSEA we have something for everyone.

With a variety of characters all offering sound local knowledge and professionalism, the team at TSEA are well equipped to find your dream on the Costa del Sol.

Pictured, satisfied customers who had offered a tricky wishlist to the Estepona team.

‘Our requirements: Several levels, set back from the coast with sea view, light and airy. Future ability to climb the property ladder should there be kids in the future’.

Tick.

Search our Special Selection for properties that tick all the boxes.

The towel count is falling on the beaches of the Costa del Sol and that, coupled with an average September daytime temperature of 28°c makes this, for me, the perfect time to visit.

This is THE best season for property hunting too, with cheaper flights and rental accommodation.

The Spanish Estate Agent is booking up their agents fast for September and October viewings. To bag your preferred dates contact Chloe on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

And if you need a little pre-holiday reading, browse our specialist listings of brand new developments for sale, ready built or off-plan, along the Costa del Sol.

Coming up this weekend! MALAGA FAIR! Not to be missed!

Starting this Friday 10th August with a firework display at the port, it is party time for a full 8 days and nights! The fair is a huge event and takes place over two venues where you can see free concerts and generally let your hair down and take in the different flavours of Spain.

During the day head to Calle Larios (from midday-6pm) where you will find free concerts in several squares in the old quarter such as Plaza Uncibay, Plaza Mitjana, Plaza de las Flores and Plaza de San Pedro de Alcántara (off Calle Carreteria).

At night head to Real de la Feria – in the west of city where partying is full on and the atmosphere electric!

We've launched a brand new section on our website where you will find over 200 new developments of apartments, townhouses and villas all along the Costa del Sol from the elegant city centre of Malaga to the stylish destination of Marbella and the charming fishing village of Estepona. With properties to suit every taste and budget, click through to choose your new home in Spain.

Costa del Sol is currently a hotbed of creativity and you’ll find some of the most exciting and innovative new developments in Europe. Stylish interiors and ultra contemporary designs using the latest building techniques are creating wonderful living spaces. With the emphasis on outdoor living and seamless transitions between interiors and exteriors, leading architects are designing fabulous new projects for international clients who want to live full- or part-time on the Mediterranean coast of the Costa del Sol.

Want to flex your Green muscle? No problem; with the latest European quality building codes and green credentials including solar panels, terrace cooling, air conditioning, electric car charging points in garages it’s there at the touch of a switch. And home domotics allow you to control the operation of the property from a distance so you can lie on the beach and turn on the aircon ready for when you get home! Bliss!

FERIA DE SAN ISIDRO LABRADOR
Andalucia is extremely proud of its history and traditions and this is easily seen with various festivities happening throughout the calendar year. On the 15th May Estepona celebrates the day of its patron saint, San Isidro Labrador (the Farmer), with a procession starting at San José church in the old town and making its way around the centre before returning back to the church. As the festival honours Estepona’s agricultural heritage, the procession is made up of farm vehicles dressed up in foliage, flowers and produce. There is a prize for the best decorated float and everyone makes a great effort, there are even some tractors with ‘San Isidro’ written in dough on a giant loaf of bread on the front of their trailers!

For more information see andalucia.com

The Legion 501 disembarks in Malaga!

The Imperial troops of the 501st Legion arrive on the streets of the centre of Malaga on Saturday, May 5, starting at 5 pm. Departure from Muelle Uno (Pier One), parade to Plaza de la Constitución.

At 5:30 pm, 170 members of the 501st Legion, accompanied by 10 Mandalorian Mercs and 48 cadets from the Galactic Academy, will start the tour at La Farola. They will take Pier One and then head towards the Pompidou Museum, where the Tagomago patrol ship of the Spanish Armada awaits them. From there, the Emperor will disembark with his guard to join the parade.

They will continue along Palmeral de las Sorpresas (Pier Two), cross Plaza de la Marina and take Calle Larios until they reach Plaza de la Constitución at around 8 pm.

Courtesy of www.malagacar.com

New regulations are about to come into play regarding how we gather and use our clients' data.

We take client security seriously and our whole Spain team sat down this afternoon to take part in an online training webinar to make sure your details are handled safely and to the highest standards of care.

The exchange rate between the pound and the euro broke through the 1.15 level last week for the first time in nearly a year.
Since the end of May 2017, the rate has been remarkably steady around the 1.10 - 1.15 level.

It remains to be seen whether this is the start of a new trend or not.

So, if you are heading to Spain over this Easter break, what specialities might you expect to eat?

Lots of deliciousness awaits but you might want to pack some loose clothes - low-calorie this is not!

Torrijas. This scrumptious treat is very traditional for Easter, with recipes dating back to the 1600s. Thick pieces of bread are soaked in a mixture of milk and egg, then fried with olive oil and served with honey and sugar.

Flores de Semana Santa. Also known as flores manchegas, these sweet and fried pastries come in delightful shapes.

Potaje de Vigilia. Traditionally served on Good Friday before Easter Sunday, this 'vigil stew' is made of cod, chickpeas, spinach and garlic.

For more Spanish treast visit The Local 

Start your property search around Estepona where you'll find lots of restaurants lining pretty little back streets.

The Spanish economy grew 3.1% in 2017 thanks to an increase in consumer spending and a higher rate of investment, data released recently by the government has confirmed.

The nation GDP figure showed an increase of 0.7% in the fourth quarter of last years, slightly slower than in previous quarters, meaning the economy grew slightly less than in 2016 when it expanded by 3.3%. Last year was the third consecutive year that GDP increased more than 3%.

Household demand was up 2.4% in the year and investment was up 5% (including 6.1% for investment in equipments and 4.6% in construction). Exports grew 5% and imports grew at almost the same pace, up 4.7%
.
Of the 3.1% growth, 90% came from and increase in overall domestic demand.

Credit: Sur in English

Our intrepid team of property consultants descended on the Hammersmith Novotel to represent Affordable France, The Spanish Estate Agent and Beaux Villages Immobilier at the Your Overseas Home Property Exhibition this weekend.

The team flew in from Malaga, Bordeaux, Amsterdam and Bergerac.

Ironically, our 'local' team from the south west of England couldn't get there!

Pictured, Karen Mathers, our call team manager, caught in a flurry of snow on Hammersmith Bridge.

All best wishes to our clients who battled the elements to attend this great ticket-only event.

SOLD : Estepona town centre, 3-bed, 2-bath apartment, 185,000€ - step out of your door and onto the beach-front promenade
For more properties like this, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Imagine waking up in your own 3-bed apartment on Europe's only freshwater lagoon development.
For more properties like this, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Everyone should experience the weekend madness, when people arrive on Saturday, from all over Andalucia and further afield (mostly by train and bus), dressed up and armed with liquid refreshment, to join in.

The party starts on the train, as groups of chickens, smurfs, nuns, and schoolgirls with swinging pigtails sing heartily in preparation for the festivities, kicking off their own Carnival celebrations before they've even arrived.

Thousands of people in fancy dress throng the centre of old Cadiz all Saturday night, many not even going to bed, till they stagger back onto their buses and trains on Sunday morning to head home (thereby avoiding having to pay inflated prices for hotel rooms).

A lucky golfer has just taken ownership of this brand new apartment on the only links golf course on the Costa del Sol.
For more golf development properties, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Imagine this as your personal view to complement your morning coffee.
This sunrise was snapped at 0815 last week. Winter isn’t so bad!
Stop dreaming and book a viewing trip.
Picture by Tony Reddin, property consultant and font of 25 years local knowledge of Estepona and the surrounding area.
Great deals guaranteed.

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Sunset over Duquesa, Costa del Sol, taken by leading property consultant at The Spanish Estste Agent and long time local resident Tony Reddin.
For a list of properties available to buy with a magical sunset included in the price, click here

Then the Malaga area has something special in store for you.  Although temperatures are not what Brits know as cold, the thermometer has dipped and thought turn from salads to something a bit more substantial.

Lentils are a firm local favourite and we love this recipe from Chic Andaluzza.  Check out the site for lots more delicious ideas.For four people as a main dish or six as a starter you´ll need

About 500g of lentils – we have the flat green ones here
Water to cover
3 tablespoons of olive oil
1 medium onion, quartered
Half each of a red and green pepper, chopped into bite sized chunks
Two tomatoes cut into bite sized chunks
1 bay leaf
A couple of carrots peeled and finely diced
A stick of celery plus the leaves (if it has leaves). Finely dice the celery but not the leaves.
4 or 5 whole fat cloves of garlic
2 medium potatoes peeled and cut into small cubes (keep these in a bowl of water separately)
Sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary if you have it
¼ teaspoon each of pimentón and paprika
Salt to taste (at end of cooking)
Optional – a couple of chorizo and/or morcilla or your favourite sausages

Rinse the lentils then add all the vegetables and spices apart from the salt to a large cooking pot. Cover well with water, add the oil and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat slightly but don´t let them come off the boil while cooking as this will make the lentils hard. They will probably take about 45 minutes or so.

When the lentils are soft, add the potato and meats (if using) and continue cooking until the potatoes are cooked. Remove the bay leaf and celery leaves and add salt (and pepper too if you like) to taste and you´re ready to serve. Slice the sausages into smaller pieces before serving. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon over the top really lifts the flavour!

It’s official - Spanish property prices are rising.

EU data to the end of September confirms this.
There are always regional differences with this type of analysis, however the overall trend is the most important factor in considering the longer term advisability of an investment.

And it doesn’t mean there are no longer bargains to be had.
Talk to us for inside knowledge about the best value to be had from amongst the bewildering choice.
It does mean that confidence continues to return to the market - undeniably a good thing for property owners.

It has always been the case that your money goes further here in Spain, when any like-for-like comparison is made.
Not that ‘like-for-like’ is a piece of cake here on the Costa del Sol.
I mean, how many of you were on the beach in the UK yesterday?
Honestly - opposite our office in Estepona on white sand - locals, ex-pats and visitors alike basked in the winters sun.

Time to book a free viewing trip with TSEA.
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Stock is at an all time low which means that rental properties that do become available are snapped up in an instant. In 2017, the Costa del Sol had its highest number of tourist visitors - ever!

That makes a great opportunity for anyone looking to buy a second home to rent out for part of the year or to buy a property specifically to create an income!

How does it work? There are three models to choose from:
- Buy a property and manage the rentals yourself, do your own marketing on specialist sites, take the bookings, arrange the changeovers.
- Buy a property and put it in the hands of a specialist rental agency who would typically charge you up to 20% of the income but they take everything from marketing to housekeeping off your hands.
- Buy a property in a tourist resort where the resort takes on the rental and offers a guaranteed return - usually for a limited period, for example 5% per annum over 3 years.

Our sales agents know the Costa del Sol inside out and are experienced in identifying the apartments or villas which will be in the most demand for rental. We can also put you in touch with specialist property management companies who will help with the rental process. Contact us now and find out how we can help you buy and make a return on your investment.

What can it be that makes the Costa del Sol so loved by so many visitors and home buyers?

Is it the year-round good weather? Well, yes, and much more besides.

Many people come here for the fantastic Spanish lifestyle which welcomes people from all over the world.  Recent surveys of expats, have put Spain as one of the top 10 European destinations. However it's useful to understand the various parts of the Costa del Sol so you can start your new life here in the best area possible.

After a day viewing property in and around sunny Estepona, Tony Reddin called in at the TSEA office at 4pm to collect the keys to view a late addition to the schedule - a 'wildcard' selection by him on behalf of his clients.

Clients of TSEA are very clued up about what they want. What the sales team add to this is up to the minute honest advice and support from initial enquiry to collecting the keys and beyond. This knowledge and expertise that can only come from local hard won experience is what sets the TSEA customer experience apart.

We live here. We love the area. We care about the fact that you will to.

And we'll be neighbours.

This beautiful townhouse property was recently sold by The Spanish Estate Agent.  

It is located just outside the pueblo blanco of Casares, sitting in the hills above the Costa del Sol, but just a stone's throw from the beaches.

Are you the outdoor type? Is the sea a magnet for you?

Come and see us on the Costa del Sol – we’ve got treats in store! With our long stretches of beautiful sandy beaches on the Mediterranean Sea, it’s not surprising that watersports are one of the main activities here in Malaga. From snorkelling and scuba diving to paddle surfing, this area is the perfect location for those who have a real motivation to get stuck in and learn some new skills. Plus you can get help and tips from the endless number of clubs in all major Costa resorts.

One of the main things you’ll notice on nearly every beach is the paddle surfers! This sport is the latest craze and taking over the Costa del Sol from Malaga to Tarifa with new clubs and schools popping up everywhere. Easily picked up by even non-sporty types, this is perfect for those looking for something unusual to do on holiday. It's also ideal to do as a family or a small group appealing to all ages and abilities. Get yourself to a club and pick up some tips from a pro.

Are you considering getting married in Spain, or more specifically on the Costa del Sol? Then keep reading...

The wedding tourism industry is constantly growing and there are many factors to take into consideration when planning your wedding abroad no matter which country you have set your sights on.
For example, in Spain, for a foreigner it is only possible to legally marry if you’re either catholic and planning a traditional catholic wedding in a church, or if you’re legally registered as a resident in the country. The way around it is to get legally married in your home country before coming out to Spain. If you wish you can treat this as if being granted the licence to marry aboard and then exchange rings and blessings at the ceremony in Spain.

As your special day deserves to be set somewhere wonderful many couples choose to leave the planning to a professional who knows exactly what they’re doing and who is well-connected locally to all the essential shops and services.

There are many different wedding planning companies on the Costa del Sol who are willing to help organize your special day and hold your hand every step of the way. They will guide you through everything that needs to be planned from explaining legal issues to remembering every last detail. Most of them will also have their own suggestions for you re venues, however, booking at least a year in advance is vital as the best and most popular locations get snapped up way ahead of time.

If you are buying a property in Spain, whether it be a holiday home or a new, permanent residence, you will face many of the same decisions that you face with any other property purchase.

One of the most important of those concerns is financing the purchase.
These are several ways that you can finance a Spanish property purchase. If you are considering a mortgage it is worth noting some important factors:
By law Spanish lenders may not lend to non-Spanish residents more than 70% of the value of the purchase (or valuation, if lower), and may restrict themselves to less.
The way Spanish lenders assess a borrower’s ability to repay the loan is different from the process in the UK. In Spain, the lender takes your income and applies a 35% factor to it. Your total monthly debt repayment commitments (mortgage and other loans) must not exceed this figure. Spanish lenders place more emphasis on total debt than on total income.

If part or all of your income is derived from property rental, lenders may reduce further the amount they will lend. However, this works both ways - if you have strong, secure income from employment, lending criteria might be relaxed.
Lenders are naturally risk-averse creatures. Factors that they take into account include low income, insecure or short contract employment, a loan of long duration, a high level of loan to value, and high levels of debt.

If you run your own business and have a variable income, then the lender will take into account the duration of the business and your income over several years.
Lenders may lend to overseas companies, but often with additional security.

It is often helpful to start the mortgage process before you come to Spain. Unlike in some other European countries, there is no such thing as a “Decision in Principle”.
Lenders make a decision once they have the necessary personal and financial details and property details relating to the actual property the buyer wants to buy.
Starting the process early, however, speeds up the process once you find your dream home in Spain!
What types of mortgages are available?

I have just bought an apartment in Estepona using The Spanish Estate Agent and found their care and attention to detail wonderful. They believe in giving a personalised service and the highest standards of customer service. They make you feel very welcome from the sales manager Chloe Williams (who said ‘feel free to drop in any time after purchase’) to the negotiator John Ashfield (who drove me round some 9 properties in 1 day and is keen to help with anything) to the office manager Gem Mørch (who ensures the smooth running of everything and is very efficient. Gem and I have subsequently become good friends). All in all their service is exemplary, I have no hesitation in them selling the apartment if the need arises.

How about this view from our client's balcony in their new apartment, near Marbella and the beach.  We have more of the same - tempted?

If you needed any further persuasion to head to Spain,there's great news about the cost of living.

According to the Spain Buying Guide, Eurostat, the EU statistics agency, has reported that Spain’s residents and visitors enjoy some of the lowest prices in Europe, especially for clothing, alcohol and cigarettes. The agency looked at household spending in all of the EU 28 countries in 2016 and found that Spanish prices were at 91.5% of the EU average. The UK was 121% of the EU average, and France and Italy joined most other northern European countries with above average prices. Most eastern European nations were considerably cheaper than Spain, while Cyprus, Greece and Portugal were all between 85 and 88% of the EU average.

Spain is the cheapest for unbranded clothes and shoes despite the country being in the forefront of high-end fashion and exclusive shoe design. Cigarettes carry a huge amount of tax as do alcoholic drinks, which contribute to their price, but they still cost less in Spain than many other countries. Interestingly, Spain is the fifth cheapest for all types of personal transport from cars to bicycles.
On the other hand, the agency describes Spanish telecommunications as “unnecessarily expensive”, in fact Spain is the sixth most expensive country in Europe. Lack of competition and a traditionally high cost contribute to this. Furniture is also expensive in Spain as there are fewer mass-produced Spanish outlets such as Ikea. Most Spanish furniture is of high quality and pricey, sold in small exclusive privately owned shops, which is why it is more expensive here than at its neighbour Portugal.  What better excuse for hiring a van and going over the border to kit out your new summer home?

Estepona town hall has approved plans to develop land near El Cristo beach where there is currently a natural vantage point with a wooden fence. The project includes creating a wider open space in the form of a green zone including a public square, which would maintain the area’s function as a vantage point.

Work, which is already under way, is expected to take a year to complete, and, along with a new stretch of the coastal pathway, is part of the obligations of the private firm that is developing the area. The local authority has said that its aim is to prevent construction above ground, ensuring that locals and visitors can continue to enjoy the views from this beauty spot.

Meanwhile the project includes new tourist facilities beneath the planned square, which, said the council, will “meet the demand for leisure and entertainment in the town all year round”. More details of these facilities have not been released, although the council has said that “the new area will increase the town’s tourist attractions and generate employment all year round”.

Improvements also include a provisional resurfacing of part of the area near El Cristo beach to make parking cars easier.

From Sur in English

Fancy a room with a view? Recent clients are waking up in this new apartment, purchased via The Spanish Estate Agent.
Contact us for more amazing properties in the Marbella area.

This month it is all about the Atún Rojo de Almadraba (Red Tuna of Almadraba) in Andalusia. During this month different villages, Barbarate, Zahara de los Atunes, Conil and Tarifa, host a Tuna Route. All participating restaurant present a special tuna dish or tapa.

Tuna fishing is a 3000-year-old tradition in this region and is special because of the technique used by the fishermen. In the month of May the tuna fish go from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean Sea via the Street of Gibraltar to lay eggs. To catch the best tuna, the fishermen put their 'almadraba', a system of nets, in the water in the Street of Gibraltar. This system of nets is made in such a way that it only catches the most mature fish. Instead of bringing in the nets to collect the fish, a few divers enter the water. When you would bring in the nets, the tuna will feel fear and give off a substance that spoils the flesh. Therefore, to guarantee the best quality of tuna, the tuna are being quickly killed by the divers. This tradition of working is seen as a sustainable way of fishing. You can read all about it in this article.

Last weekend was the Tuna Route in Zahara de los Atunes. For six days the narrow streets were full of people, there were dancers on the corner of the street and the restaurants served their best tuna tapa on the terrace, from traditional toast with tuna and bruschetta to tuna cheesecake or even

Malaga was nominated the the best city to live in Spain in 2014 and in 2016 it was the only Spanish city in the list of the ten European cities with better quality of life. So this is the right city for your next city trip or your move! The city of Malaga is easy to discover by foot. When you walk through the small streets and discover the beautiful plazas, you will see the rich history of the city which resulted in a mixture of Moorish, Roman and Spanish architecture. One of the buildings you will see when you wander around is the Cathedral, which you should definitely enter. The Cathedral is a perfect example of the city’s history, with its baroque, gothic and neoclassic influences.

In the centre of the city you can find the Roman theatre. This is one of the oldest theatres that dates back to the Roman times. Through the museum, where they explain the history of the theatre, you can enter the remains of what once was a centre for entertainment of the Romans. Just behind the Roman theatre you can see another place of interest, the Alcazaba, which was built by the Moors. The Alcazaba with its high walls turned Malaga into a fortress. When you enter the remains of the fortress, you will see the beautiful gardens with orange trees and you will have amazing views over the Roman theatre, La Malagueta and the port area.

Next to the Alcazaba, on the same mountain, the Gibralfaro castle is located. Although there is a corridor that connects both buildings, you have to enter the castle via an outside route. It will take you about 20 minutes to climb the mountain and reach the castle. It is definitely worth your energy to go up there, because it gives you amazing views over the city! You can wander around in the old castle and the courtyards and take a walk on the wall of the castle. From up here you will have stunning views over the city from all sides. Near the entrance you can find a centre of interpretation,

Are you thinking about moving to Spain? This will mean a lot of changes. Here are some things that are useful to know when you are moving to Spain.

First of all, Spain is the most tourist-friendly country in the world and therefore an excellent choice to build your new life. Spain has beautiful landscapes, beaches and a rich cultural history. Just think of the Alhambra Palace in Granada which dates back to the year 889 or the Mezquita Cathedral in Córdoa, which is a wonderful example of Islamic art. Both places are definitely worth a visit. Also, Spain has a rich cuisine. Enjoy a tasty paella at the beachside or go out for tapas and wine in a local bar in the center of town. For more information about cultural sights, typical Spanish food and festivals you can take a look at the Spanish Fiestas website.

Good to know is that the day is divided differently in Spain than some other countries in Europe. The morning goes up to 2 pm and the afternoon until after sunset. Also, it is normal to dine after nine o'clock in the evening. In general, the Spanish have breakfast between 7.30 and 9.30 am. After that they have a mid-morning snack at 11 am, followed by a lunch between 2 and 4 pm. The afternoon snack is between 5.30 and 6 pm and dinner is served between 9 and 11 pm.

Regarding time schedules, you must have heart about the oh-so-famous siesta. This is definitely a part of Spanish life, although it is becoming less common in the big cities. The siesta implies that some shops close their doors between 2 and 5 pm. However, they will remain open until late, especially in summer.

When moving to Spain, knowledge about the Spanish language is important. Even if you only speak a few words of Spanish, it will be appreciated. Here you can find some tips that can help you learn a new language.

We share the view that Spain is the most tourist friendly country in the world. The Costa del Sol has a lot to offer, just think of the long coastline with its beautiful beaches, the traditional Andalusian white villages, the marinas and the mountains. All these assets make it an idylic place to build a new life, a life you've always dreamed of.

Besides the activities, such as outdoor dining on your terrace, walking along the promenade and strolling through the narrow shopping streets, the Costa del Sol has many more adventurous activities to offer. For example hiking. Hike through the beautiful mountains that surround the coast. Once you've reached your destination, all your efforts will be rewarded by the stunning views. In the mountainous area of the Costa del Sol there are numerous walks that lead you to unique locations. An example of such a hike is the tour on La Concha, the most famous mountain of Marbella. This hike is perfect for nature lovers and will show you a unique side of Marbella. Also, you will come across the beautiful olive groves, pine trees and walnut trees and if you are lucky you can spot the Spanish goat, eagles and owls. On the website of Marbella family fun you can find the route of this astonishing hike.

By bike is also a great way to discover the mountains.

The increase of the price of the properties is good news for property buyers in the coastal areas in Spain. The market has turned around, with a growth of 6,4% annually, as explained in this article in El Mundo. The increase is sustained by the economic recovery and the return of domestic buyers. But, most of all, because of the international demand, with international buyers constituting 80% of all sales. The area of biggest interest is the coastal area, where there is a considerable increase of demand, with the highest increasing price rates in Manilva, of 15%, and Marbella, of 11,3%. The restoration of the balance between supply and demand will result in a properly functioning property market.

Although the prices of properties is increasing, the market is not inaccessible, while properties in the Mediterranean coast still cost 45,5% less than in 2007. In addition, there remains good value for money along the Costa del Sol. New builds offer a new product of better quality, efficiency and sustainability than some properties built before 2007. Due to the good value for money and the increasing property prices, Spain remains one of the most attractive countries for real estate investment.

Are you thinking about buying a property in the Costa del Sol? Now is the time to go for it! Our friendly property consultants would be happy to help you in your search for a property that matches your needs.

On your search for a new home in the south of Spain, it can sometimes be tricky figuring out which area is going to fit you and your family's lifestyle best. A little self-reflection is essential when making these types of decisions. But you also need the best information that is relevant to you! Here I'm going to talk about some aspects of two very popular towns with some fantastic apartments along the Costa del Sol. If you need any more information, our sales agents are always here to help.

 ESTEPONA

The area covered by Estepona is deceptively large: its official borders extend far north of the actual "centre" of town. It covers an area of coastline of over 15kms! If a property is listed as being in Estepona, it may be far from the historic quarter, so ask the question if relevant. With such an extensive coastline (21kms) and an advantageous microclimate (affording Estepona with 325 days of sun per year), it is perfect for those wishing to make the most of the beach and who aren't that fussed about the nightlife. Estepona itself remains relatively untouched by the tourist industry, in comparaison to other places such as Marbella or Puerto Banus.

There has been huge investment recently into the aesthetic presentation of Estepona town, which is an absolute pleasure to wander through with its colorful tiled and flower-filled pedestrian streets. Aside from the old-town feel, Estepona is known for such beaches as Playa del Cristo and to the west, one of the most popular naturist beaches around, Costa Natura.

Estepona has excellent clinics, schools and services, and the same goes for Marbella. However, Estepona has received massive renovations in the past few years, with the Orchid House (that just hosted the amazing blooming of the extremely rare "corpse flower", the first of its kind in Europe) and flowery historic centre which is a treat to walk through as you search for murals and poems that are scattered throughout the town. These promote slightly more "out of the way" tourism, rightly so! Marbella tends to have a glamorous reputation, whereas in fact its culture scene is just as vibrant as in Estepona. 

 MARBELLA

Marbella has a slightly richer history than Estpona and is bigger, so there are many opportunities for enjoying the warmth of the evening while you walk down cobbled streets and enjoy the decorative flowers that line its plazas. Its international appeal is undeniable, and is reflected in the wide choice of eating options (you won't find a vegan restaurant in Estepona!), more traditional chiringuitos but also Michelin-star restaurants. People come from all around the world to enjoy what Marbella has to offer. 

The beaches are incredible, and the reputation they've earned over the decades holds true. You'll have to see them for yourself!

This town also has a justified reputation for its party lifestyle, however its history dates back to Roman times, and it continues to have a rich cultural side to its character as well. The climate is very stable by virtue of its microclimate created by the mountains, also forming the backdrop for the city, which hold back all possible bad weather, offering sunshine filled days for most of the year.

Social media is becoming more and more intricately linked with our personal and professional lives, and at The Spanish Estate Agent we are acutely aware of this. If you found us via our Facebook page, welcome! Facebook is no longer just for sharing pictures and chatting with your friends - you can now find and sell just about anything there, did you see the viral story about someone who tried to sell their baby on Facebook?! Now, that is an extreme example, but it just goes to show that nowadays many people's first resource when they have a question is social media. This is particularly true when it comes to local knowledge! We pride ourselves on market expertise and local knowledge, which we certainly supplement through the local Facebook groups we have joined (shout out to Manilva Coffee Chat!). How can you work this to your advantage? Here are my personal favorites:

1) Build your community  

Moving to a new place is nothing if not scary - for one thing, what is it going to be like to live there? Who will I be able to rely on in times of need? Before you even pack your bags, you can join local Facebook groups with a simple click and post there with any concerns, queries or general conversation starters! Other expats know how difficult it can be to integrate into a completely new and unknown community, so harness the online tools available so you don't feel too lonesome when you arrive. 

2) Find people with similar interests 

The Facebook groups you join could be targeted towards specific interests, but in your local groups, if you post a question asking if anyone else likes crocheting/shot putting/dog grooming, you'll be that much closer to finding events and people who share those same interests! 

3) Make money selling things you don't need 

For this one, you may want to post specifically on selling groups, so don't forget to read the rules and regulations associated with each group before you post. The benefit of posting to local groups here, is that you can sell your cupboard or TV without having to carry it or send it anywhere, normally people are willing to come and pick the items up from your home! This takes a lot of the inconvenience out of selling. You can get creative about the items you sell, too, whether it be old baby clothes, plants, DVDs or even your own crafted goods! 

4) Ask and give advice and recommendations

These types of posts are the most commonly found on local Facebook groups: "Does anyone know the best local plumber/taxi driver/private chef?". People love giving advice so you're sure to get some quick responses, especially in groups with many members or tight communities. 

5) Find and rate local businesses and freelancers

As I mentioned above, businesses are noticing that social media is an excellent place to find and engage with potential clients (guilty as charged...) so having a look through who's posting what could give you an idea of what kind of restaurants, gyms or expat markets might be out there. Since many groups are targeted to a certain community, find yours, and you'll be able to point your wallet towards businesses with good reviews and that represent your values!

As Spain continues to regain its financial feet after the devastating crisis, the tourist sector is one that has enjoyed growth for the past few years and new figures show that this is also the case in 2017! The industry figures show that over 10% more tourists chose to travel to Spain in January of this year than in 2016, when almost 4 million people went to Spain on their holidays. This is an important factor to take into consideration if you are looking to buy a Spanish apartment on the Costa del Sol. Perhaps you'd want to target the UK market with a new business venture along with your property, so what are the figures for those?

The UK tourist market is undoubtedly huge along the Costa del Sol, with many businesses catering to it, but how can we expect it to grow? According to the data released last week, 15% more tourists from the UK visited Spain in January 2017 than in the same month last year. Almost 800,000 British people made their way to the sunny sparkling beaches we know well, as well as to historic pilgrimage sites and metropolitan party-towns. The number of UK citizens made up over 20% of all of the tourists in Spain.

Other countries are also traveling to Spain in spades - rates of tourist arrivals also rose by 23% and 35% for Ireland and the United States respectively. It is interesting to note the relative lack of growth in other EU tourist markets like German which only slightly rose and France, which dropped a little.

In the light of these new statistics, it seems like a great time to consider buying one of the gorgeous properties for sale on the Costa del Sol and start your business that may benefit from these booming tourist markets, that aren't set to slow down any time soon.  

On the long list of things to consider and sort out before your big move abroad may be your precious pup or cute kitten. How can you legally and safely transport your pet? What do you need to arrange in order to take them on a plane? What kind of documentation and vaccinations will your pet need? Thankfully, we have some answers for you, based on this Expatica article, which you can refer to for more information. This website also has lots of useful legal information! When planning for your move into one of the amazing Costa del Sol houses for sale, you will want to consider the following things.

Firstly, does your pet have its passport? Yes, your dog can have a passport just like you, and it is mandatory for traveling to the EU. This document contains vital information about you, your pet, their last vaccinations and their microchip number. This will assure their entrance into Spain, which has strict rules for vaccination dates. If your kitten or puppy is less than three months old, they are exempt from vaccination regulations, but there are others that must be met. Other pets (that are not cats or dogs) have to fulfill a different set of requirements, so do your research before traveling with them.

Aside from these legal requirements, there are even more awaiting for you at the airport! If you are putting your animal in a kennel in the hold of the plane, this must meet standards set by the International Air Transport Association. Check with your airline before you travel. If your pet is small, you may be allowed to take them in the cabin, and their container must fit under the seat in front of you.

Last year's Brexit referendum result brought a lot of uncertainty to the idea of moving assets abroad, and the actual consequences are still being sorted out. We still do not know to what extent this will affect Brits moving to Spain, but this news may have led you to consider alternative options if you would like to live and move around the EU unhindered by potential lengthy visa processes, enjoying all of the advantages that being a part of the Schengen zone brings. So if you are among the numerous UK citizens who are hunting for apartments for sale on the Costa del Sol, you may want to consider the following option in order to not lose out if the Brexit negotiations do go unfavorably for you.

One of the possible alternatives to EU residency and citizenship is to obtain a so-called "Golden Visa". In Spain, this means either a €2 million investment in Spanish Government Bonds, a €1 million investment in shares in Spanish companies or, if you aren't quite a millionaire yet, you can buy a property worth  €500,000. There are various conditions to be met in order to obtain such a visa, as detailed by this article.

For the moment this may just be something to consider, as it is only viable for non-EU citizens, and us Brits are still officially EU citizens. However, if this situation changes, it can be good to know what options are still available for those of us who would still like to reside on the continent some, or all of the time. It is also good to know that if you do opt for this visa, it is not obligatory for you to reside full-time in your new home. You will have to visit Spain at least once per year in order to renew your resident card, but that's it! You will also be able to take your family, work in Spain and are not even obliged to pay taxes in Spain if they do not wish to. If you choose to, and renew your residency every 2 years, you will also be able to obtain Spanish citizenship after 10 years!

One of the top draws for tourists and expats looking for Costa del Sol homes for sale is beauty. Of course the natural beauty of the countryside is the first thing that one thinks of, but the local traditional architecture is also lovely to behold. Why is it that we are so fascinated with beauty? There are a variety of reasons that contribute to this. The first of which is that it simply makes us happier!

Researchers have found that looking at beautiful art correlates with strong activity in the part of the brain related to pleasure. It makes us feel good, in the same way as looking at a loved one makes us feel good! Of course looking at a painting in a museum is not the same as looking over the sea at mountains below, but one can make the aesthetic connection fairly easily.

Some colors have also been associated with higher cognitive activity. Other research has shown that even just glancing at green "can boost creativity and motivation". This may be because green is the color of vegetation that in our ancient past would have been associated in our minds as nourishment. So, not only is looking at a lovely landscape good for you mood, it's good for your productivity too!

How is your search for Costa del Sol properties for sale going? Moving to Spain is exciting, fun, scary and overwhelming at times! It can feel like you're forgetting something important, and thankfully most issues simply take some planning and common sense to overcome. However, something that may have been keeping you up at night is healthcare. In the UK you are guaranteed NHS coverage, but you may be wondering, what happens to this coverage in Spain?

It is first of all important to let the authorities know that you are moving to Spain, and getting registered correctly upon arrival in Spain. The first step in doing this is obtaining your NIE number, and then going to your local health centre and asking for the corresponding paperwork and advice. You may want to recruit an interpreter for this, as the presence of a member of staff fluent in English will not be guaranteed in every centre, though some do have volunteer interpreters.

If you are staying temporarily, you may want to register with EHIC which provides healthcare coverage to some degree or another for all EU citizens throughout the EU. You will get a card which will allow you to register with a GP and obtain care. However, if you are staying on a permanent basis, you will have to register for proper healthcare. You will be able to be advised on how to do this in a health centre. In this case you will receive a tarjeta sanitaria (health card) which will serve the same purpose as the EHIC card, on a more permanent basis. This may take some time, but you may need it! In any case, you will have to make sure you have correct health insurance in case of an emergency - you don't want to be stuck with a huge hospital bill just because of forgetfulness!

Us expats often bemoan the strange timetable that Spain follows, though one does adapt and come to understand it over time. Starting the day later, taking the afternoon easy and being more active in the evening makes sense when it's boiling hot, which makes sense in the southernmost tips of the country, but does it make that much sense in Madrid? Or Asturias? These more temperate environments may not necessitate this large break in the middle of the day, and many people have expressed their concern that this may be damaging productivity and even the happiness of inhabitants.

The Olive Press published an article detailing the findings of a study by a sociological organisation named Ulises. The findings are quite astonishing - many of us may have experienced an impassioned Spaniard defending this unique daily timetable, but apparently over 90% of Spanish people would prefer a "normal" British working day from 9am to 5pm.

This makes sense also from a timezone perspective. Spain is mostly west of GMT and yet is in the same timezone as Poland, almost 3000km to the east. A majority of polled Spaniards would like to change this, to be aligned with their neighbour, Portugal.

Perhaps you met someone abroad or you simply fell in love with a place and decided to make it your new home, but relocating with a partner or for a partner can be a tricky life decision to navigate. If your partner has gotten a new job in a different country, following them into uncharted territory can seem like a daunting task. Moving abroad is a big change, and doing so for a partner can feel scary. If you are on the look out for Spanish apartments for sale on the Costa del Sol with your partner, you may both have some concerns you'll have to discuss, when you're not bubbling with excitement at your new life!

Many people wonder what their new work life will look like. The BGRS 2016 Global Mobility Trends Survey found that only 20 percent of accompanying spouses worked while their partners worked overseas. Preparing for the worst but hoping for the best can be helpful in this situation, as you can never know what to expect, but a positive attitude is important! Finding a new job can be tricky when you’re in a new country, and you may have to think about different career avenues. This can be very fun though! Go in with an open mind and don’t give up hope.

This can be a stressful time for people in a relationship, but if you both go in with realistic expectations and plans, as well as a strong willingness to support each other through a time of transition, you will be more likely to succeed! You can take control of your own move, even if you are the “trailing partner”. It’s all about making the most of the situation. So whether you are feeling daunted or excited, there are many things to take into consideration when moving for love. But with the right mindset and plan, you can make it work for everyone! We believe in open communication here at The Spanish Estate Agent, so when you get in touch to discover all of the gorgeous houses for sale on the Costa del Sol, we will be happy to discuss any concerns you may be having, and help you address them head-on!

The Independent recently posted an article which detailed the top 17 countries that expats live the happiest lives in. The top 10 includes Costa Rica, Thailand, New Zealand and Spain! Spain is actually the only European country in the top 10 list.

Some of the reasons for the high rate of expat happiness in Spain could be the cheap cost of accomodation, food, drink and transport, which are significantly lower than other Western European countries like the UK.

Aside from the lower costs, the weather is glorious, especially on the South coast. The article mentions good job prospects and decent pay which indeed are getting better year by year. In fact, Spain showed strong economic growth last year and is set to improve!

If you are thinking of buying one of the beautiful properties we have for sale in Calahonda, Marbella or holiday villas all along the Costa del Sol, give it a go! Or ask one of our friendly sales agents for advice if you have any questions about the move. 

El Chorro is a haven of beauty and tranquility around an hour and a half north of Málaga, perfectly accessible for those who are looking for apartments for sale in Estepona, and who enjoy climbing and other non-beach activities! Aside from the breathtaking turquoise lakes, climbing, hiking and camping attractions, it is also well known for El Caminito del Rey - the King's Walk - which opened in 1921 by king Alfonso XIII who walked along its path and gave it its name. 

It had since fallen into disrepair, and gained the reputation of being one of the most dangerous hiking routes in the world due to the dizzying heights and precarious holds. After some casualties, the walkway was closed, and the first 30m were removed so that it was no longer "walkable". It became an "unofficial" climbing destination, reserved for only the most experienced and sanguin climbers, yet it continued to claim lives.

However, in 2012 a serious effort was made to restore the walkway in its entirety, and it is now open to the public in all its glory. The hike takes about 3 1/2 hours and is accessible to almost anyone who is able to walk 2.9km comfortably, and the walkway is surrounded by 1.5m high railings, so the risk involved in the undertaking has been dramatically reduced.

Last year, the hotels on the Costa del Sol hosted over five million visitors, more than ever before! The number of UK nationals also grew, and it is hoped that 2017 be an even better year for the area.

Another record was also broken last year on the Costa del Sol: The Malaga-Costa del Sol airport "showed a 16.4% increase in passenger numbers to the region compared to 2015". This is good news for people traveling to the area, who may see new routes added due to its popularity! Airlines predict that 2017 will be another record-breaking year for foreign passengers. 

To top off a year of records, the Malaga Public Library saw 200,000 new members joining, as well as an increase in books loaned out and visitors to its events! While you're on a viewing trip to see some of our wonderful apartments for sale on the Costa del Sol, you'll most likely fly into Malahga, so we recommend visiting this almost two hundred year old institution and checking out the plentiful international section if you enjoy history and literature!

For the past few years, a walkway by the beach has been under construction, that is planned to be 22 kilometers long, meaning that the whole length of the coast along Estepona will be connected by an uninterrupted path. This will be part of a bigger project to connect the coast all the way from Nerja to Manilva, which may take much more time due to land ownership constraints and construction permits.

The president of Costa del Sol Tourism, Elías Bendodo, said that the construction of this pathway shows that "the Costa del Sol is offering continuous responses to the demands of tourists whose ideas and desires are becoming clearer and stronger every day".

This pathway will be ideal for long walks along the beach, enjoying the natural beauty of the area. It will connect luxurious urbanisations to beautiful old villages with quaint bars and restaurants. The cyclists who are often encountered in pelotons on the motorway will be able to enjoy a safer and more beautiful ride. Those of us living along the coast will have a stronger connection to each other and to gastronomical, cultural, artistic and sporting delights.

Buying a property is always a big decision, and buying a property abroad is an even bigger one. So why do so many people decide to leave their home comforts and decide to start hunting for Costa del Sol properties? This may be because of the 320 days of sun a year, or the numerous entertainment options available, the laid-back lifestyle, abundance of good schools, health services and improving infrastructure... It depends on the person! But here are just a few reasons why people may look to re-locate to the sunny southern Spanish coast.

First of all, it is much easier to enjoy life when the sun is shining and the days are long. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a real problem for those of us who hail from the northern-most European countries, so many British, Dutch and Scandinavian people have come to us looking for property for sale on the Costa del Sol - it tends to be more affordable than property where they come from, so many decide that instead of sinking their hard-earned cash into holiday rentals, they can invest in properties for sale in Estepona, Fuengirola or Marbella. Plus, with so many expats with the same idea, you won’t be alone out here.

What does a day at the beach mean to you? For many Brits, this can seem like a somewhat futile pursuit, what with the traffic, the unpredictable weather, the faff of loading all items you might possibly need whilst at the beach (sandwiches, chairs, balls, brollies, the list goes on…), the inevitably expensive ice-creams and mundaneness of the same beach year-in, year-out.

However, moving to Spain will change all of this. I can tell you from experience that it is a life-changing moment when you realise that all you need to pack in your beach bag is keys, a towel, a bottle of water, sun-tan lotion and a book. If you buy one of numerous and amazing Spanish villas for sale on the Costa del Sol within 5 minutes of the beach, you won't have to worry about preparing for every possible contingency plan, you can just pop down for a couple of hours, bob around, lounge a little, and then get back to your day!

Spain is a classic summer destination, famous for its beaches and general warm-weather activities. 

However, it is also a wonderful place in the winter, especially if you are in tourist-dense areas that usually receive heavy footfall during the summer months. These few months of lower temperatures also bring tranquility and if you live there year-round, you will feel more like a local than ever! 

Many British expats choose to spend the festive season with their relatives in the UK but maybe you have also got visitors looking to escape the bitter northern cold, and you may be scratching your head as to what to do with them in the time of year that many seasonal activities or attractions are closed. 

Spain Property Guides has some answers for you! The author of the article is an expat living on the Costa Brava, but their advice still applies to those who are looking at homes for sale on the Costa del Sol or who are already living here! If you are thinking of making this your full-time residence, it's good to have some tips to keep yourself occupied during the winter.

They mention visiting inland villages which I think is one of the best suggestions I've heard. Take the time during the cooler months to make your forays inland, where it is normally more stiflingly hot than the coast during the summer. The white villages of Andalucia are world-renowned and are certainly worth a visit. 

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! 

Created from the development of the iconic Cinema House movie theatre in Fuengirola, these stylish, OFF PLAN apartments are located in one of the prime positions in the historic town.   It is a fabulous local situation in a quiet leafy street and yet close to many popular restaurants, cafés, bars and 150m WALK TO THE BEACH and short walk to the train station.  This is an ideal holiday home or permanent residence which offers owners the latest building standards including high levels of thermal and sound insulation to make your life as COMFORTABLE AND PEACEFUL as possible. The 3-bed, 2-bath apartment is designed with the latest in materials with amazing interior finishes.  With space and light throughout, you will enjoy living in this contemporary property with full air conditioning, home-automation systems and video entry. The kitchens are fully fitted with microwave, dishwasher, fridge-freezer, oven and a washing machine and tumble dryer. With fantastic leisure facilities including a heated pool, the property comes with access to the Gym and fitness area. Completion is scheduled for autumn 2017.  Malaga International Airport is only 15 minutes by car or access with easy public transport.

Full details here

If you are looking to buy Marbella real estate, be it for a holiday home, an investment or your new permanent family home, you may be looking to pick up some Spanish language skills to help you along the way. 

It's also a really fun way to look into another country's culture! Plus, knowing a bit of the local lingo during your search for holiday villas on the Costa del Sol may be of help to you, to be able to have a proper chat with the current owner or your potential neighbours. 

So why not start learning for free and forget the lessons, by downloading Babbel, an app you can download onto any of your devices and get started with the basics. 

Firstly they ask you a couple of questions to get to know you a little bit, as well as a short assessment of your current language skills - whether you want to learn French, Spanish, Italian, German, or any other languages they have for offer (and there are many!).

Imagine... You've just had a wild night out with your friends and you wake up bleary eyed and queasy to a blaring alarm - you're going to miss the flight! You dash to the airport, hours late, discover your flight has been delayed, the other passengers put on an earlier plane and when you're put in yours, you have the entire plane to yourself!

This incredible story actually took place last month, as unbelievable as it may seem. Three British girls residing in Gibraltar were bumped up to business class and served champagne on an exclusive flight home for Christmas, courtesy of British Airways. The plane that would normally have carried 150 people at full capacity flew with only 3 paying passengers.

Villa with large and mature garden overlooking the beautiful and ancient village of Monda in the Sierra Blanca mountains.  

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Spacious villa with guest apartment in a privileged position 100m from the coast.  Swimming pool terrace with large covered dining area. 

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Luxury frontline beach penthouse with Moorish influence.

Next door to renowned golf club

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BRAND NEW SELECTION OF TOWNHOUSES. Located 5 minutes drive from Estepona's beautiful beaches, marina and town centre. With cream marble flooring, reversible air-conditioning, ensuite bedroom with jaccuzzi bath, fireplace in the lounge. Large private basement garages with electric up and over doors, plenty of storage space throughout. Spacious shady terrace for an outdoor living and dining area to enjoy the beautiful climate of the Costa del Sol all year round. Terraces off each bedroom. Landscaped gardens and two swimming pools. PRICES RANGE FROM JUST €154,500 - €292,000 WITH BUILT SIZES RANGING FROM 195m2 - 350m2 PRICES IN THIS DEVELOPMENT START AT JUST UNDER €800 PER SQUARE METRE.

Full details here

The summer season promises to easily break last year’s record figures for visitors. Costa del Sol tourism authorities calculate that over 6.2 million people chose Costa del Sol resorts for their holiday this summer with an impact of around €5.94 billion on the local economy.

Hotels on the Costa del Sol have had the best summer since the crisis and the figure of 2.4 million hotel nights in July was the highest in Spain. Other accommodation such as holiday lets also experienced an extremely busy month. And what’s more, tourists are spending more time on the Costa del Sol – July’s average of 4.5 days was the second highest in Spain, behind just the Canary Islands. 

This has lead to renewed property development  and hotel investment.

Read the full feature

Whether you are looking for a modern apartment close to the sunny beaches of the Costa del Sol, a stylish apartment near the busy Marina of Puerto Banus or an investment opportunity which offers you great holidays but also a good rental income, there are bargains to be had across the board.

A particular development comes to mind. It's a typical story. Construction was stopped on a development that was being built, because of the economic crisis of 2008/2009. As the economy started to pick up, these townhouses were bought by an investment group. They finished work on the properties, landscaped all the gardens and outside areas, finished off the swimming pools and started marketing the properties. The pricing of these properties has been set to offer the best value in Estepona. At only 800€ a square metre, these 3 bedroom/2 bathroom townhouses have got the most incredible features – air conditioning throughout, underfloor heating in the bathrooms, double glazing, electric roller blinds, ensuite bathroom with jacuzzi bath, wardrobes in all bedrooms, marble floors, spacious covered terraces, underground garages with electric up and over doors... The list goes on and on.  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for full details of these well-priced properties

Other property bargains include the famous bank re-possessions. Many of these properties were left very much unloved but have now been re-styled and refurbished and are still great value for money. In Estepona a local architect has taken on several apartments and has created stylish, low cost investment properties or second homes. Do not hesitate to come into the shop for a chat about these properties - one of them may be perfect for you!

In Estepona these days there is a great choice of property from traditional village houses to modern apartments overlooking the sea and pretty villas in the countryside around the town. It pays to come with an idea of the kind of property you’re looking for and where you want to be, though at The Spanish Estate Agent we are happy to show you a variety of properties so you can get an global view of what is available.

If you are looking to move on a permanent basis, you may be more attracted to spacious homes with large terraces and possibly a pool to enjoy the healthy outdoor lifestyle on the Costa del Sol. A well-constructed villa with sea views that you know that you will enjoy living in for many years to come may be just your cup of tea.

If you are sporty, perhaps you’ll be keen on golf complex apartments. With a micro-climate second to none, you can be sure that there will be plenty of golf played throughout the year. As an added bonus, many properties on golf developments also waive your green fees and club membership if you buy a house there!

For an investment, we have found that modern apartments are popular, where you can enjoy the golf and lovely weather in the Spring and Autumn and maybe rent out during the hot summer months to families who love the swimming pool and beaches.

Many exciting new townhouse developments are also attracting the discerning buyer. These are often excellent value for money and offer a great opportunity to buy near Estepona.

Due to the recent strength of the Pound, the exchange rate just touched (and bounced off) 1.20.

This is a psychological level more than anything, and if sustained, will be in the news.

With so much property for sale on the Costa del Sol, it’s difficult to decide on a specific area, but you should certainly consider Estepona.

Estepona is rightly famous for its beautiful old quarter in the heart of the town – full of quaint cobbled streets, shady squares to enjoy a cool drink in the summer heat, and pretty houses covered in bougainvillea flowers.

For many people, the character of the town is the real pull. It has been jealously guarded and its “Spanish-ness” is a heritage to be proud of. The most traditional Spanish village houses are not lavish properties with high walls to keep your neighbours out, but they are friendly homes, cheek by jowl with their neighbours. The Spanish tradition of a vibrant community is due to their open way of life and openness to everyone around them.

The traditional village houses in Estepona are typically 2-3 bedrooms, with perhaps a small courtyard or solarium (sun terrace) on the roof, but opening straight onto the lane where you might put a chair and some pots full of flowers and where you'll sit and watch the world go by or chat with the passersby.

For many people looking to buy a house on the Costa del Sol, they don't want to be isolated from the world but to enjoy being able to walk out every day to go the local shops, enjoy a traditional breakfast of thick, delicious hot chocolate and churros, sip an evening drink before supper, truly engage with their local neighbours and friends. With no large gardens and easy to maintain properties, this is a great choice for a holiday home or permanent move.

If you have sat in a Spanish bar and ordered drinks, you may have been offered or simply directly brought a little plate of algo para picar (something to nibble on), as is the tradition in Spain – particularly in Andalucia. Making your own tapa to serve guests that you have over for drinks is a lovely touch at dinner parties!

Makes 10 tapa portions

Ingredients:
500g can or jar of whole unpitted green olives
4 whole garlic cloves
1 lemon or bitter orange
1-2 sprigs of thyme
1 tbsp coriander seeds
1 dried fennel stick, broken into short lengths
1 small glass of sherry or wine vinegar

Method:
Drain the olives and bash them lightly with a rolling pin. Carefully burn the garlic on a naked flame until the papery cover blackens, then crush a little. Cut a slice from the middle of the lemon or orange and reserve, then chunk the rest.
Pack the olives, garlic and chunked lemon or orange in a screw-top jar, sprinkling in the aromatics as you go, then add the vinegar and enough water to cover. Top with the lemon or orange slice to keep the olives submerged. You should not need extra salt – the preserved olives are usually salted enough.
Lid tightly and keep in the fridge for at least a week. Bring them up to room temperature before serving.

From Tapas: Classic Small Dishes from Spain by Elisabeth Luard

Shocking news and images just in from Tony Reddin on the Estepona team. They get clouds down there, too.

The exchange rate between the Pound and the Euro has started a post-Brexit vote recovery.
This morning the rate is close to 1.19, having recovered from 1.15 in the middle of August.
This is due to better than expected economic news and prospects coming out of the UK.
There is a technical set up, too, that suggests further upward movement over the next few weeks, pushing us beyond 1.20 and possible back to 1.25.

TSEA is looking for a select band of professional sales-people who represent the very best in the industry.

In return we will supply quality sales leads, pay fair commission (on time, every time), and treat you as we would like to be treated ourselves.

If you are cynical, world-weary, negative, amateurish, unmotivated..........you need not apply.
Our clients would notice !!

Otherwise, we need a dynamic and entrepreneurial sales manager, soft-sell property consultants, and bright sparkly property listers.

TSEA are looking for commercially minded people to work with throughout the Costas.
Experience, passion, and a genuine work ethic and desire to provide a service are not simply marketing words at TSEA. We mean it.
Contact our director of business development This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
For a personal response, make your email stand out from the 2000 others he processes each week!

It’s hard to believe that The Spanish Estate Agent opened its doors in Estepona just 6 months ago.

Part of an established and successful european property group, TSEA has already exceeded its own ambitious start-up plans - plans that were formed when Brexit was but a twinkle in the eye of Boris.

The first satisfied clients have already taken possession of the keys to their new homes and local sellers are contacting the agency in encouraging numbers.

‘Our conversion rate from viewing trip to agreed deal is exceptional’, said Chloe Williams, Business Development Manager in Estepona.
‘It’s pretty straightforward; we like people, people like us, and we are every bit as good in reality as we look on the internet. We do what we say we will, and we are good at matching buyer with seller’.

If you are a buyer or a seller of property on the Costa del Sol, please This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

00 34 951 516 905

Or drop in to
Avenida España 250
Estepona
29680
See us on Google maps

This ubiquitous breakfast item is a cherished national treasure to be enjoyed mid-morning with freshly fried churros – or from frozen if you’re making this at home and don’t want to faff around with a fryer. If you’ve never tried true Spanish hot chocolate, you’re in for a treat!

Serves 4
Ingredients:
200g plain chocolate, chopped
4 tsp cornflour
1 litre milk and/or water
3 tbsp sugar
Ground cinnamon (optional)

Method:
Place the chopped chocolate in a pan. Dissolve the cornflour in a little of the milk or water, then whisk into the remaining milk. Add to the chocolate with the sugar. Heat the mixture, whisking continuously to keep it smooth as the chocolate melts. As it begins to boil, remove from heat and keep whisking for 1-2 minutes. Thin with a little more milk or water if preferred, and pour into cups. Dust with cinnamon if desired.

For this and more delicious recipes see Janet Mendel's Traditional Spanish Cooking

As comebacks go, the renaissance of the Spanish property market has to rank alongside this year’s Abba reunion or Boris Johnson’s phoenix-like rebirth from betrayed Brexit pariah to foreign secretary.

Whisper it, but Spain, one of the countries hardest hit by the global financial crisis, has become a safe haven, with the economy forecast to outperform both Britain and Germany this year, and Moody’s, the credit ratings agency, estimating that house prices will rise by 5% in 2016, “bolstered by economic improvements and the lowest mortgage rates since 2011”.

From the Sunday Times, 7/8/2016
To get two articles a week of your choice follow this link

Luxury frontline beach penthouse, Casares Playa area

4 pools, golf nearby

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to view similar properties!

UP to 30,000 Andalucian homes will be made legal following a Junta law change.
The reform in the LOUA (urban planning law) will regularise 10,000 homes in Malaga which were previously deemed illegal.
Homes built on rural land not identified in development will finally be added to the Registro Civil.
Many of the homes are in the Axarquia region and were bought ‘in good faith’ by expat owners, unaware that their properties were built on protected land.
Once regularised the homes will also be able to connect to the electricity grid as well as the local water mains.
Philip Smalley, President of Save our Homes Axarquía (SOHA), said he was overjoyed to ‘put an end to the uncertainty that they hundreds of familes have had to endure’.

Feature from The Olive Press

Beach-side apartment, Estepona area

British buyer, British seller

If I had to sum up the style of this lovely part of Spain, it would be rich shades of terracotta, cool blues and crisp white; pots of geraniums hanging from the walls and patterned tiles on almost any surface. It’s a look that says summer, all year round.
Read more about the culture, the style and the history of the region in Andalucia by Michael Jacobs

I moved down to sunny Estepona a year ago from not-so-sunny Liverpool. I cannot describe how much I love living here - the town itself is incredibly well maintained and decorated with flowers, and is very clean. The beaches are gorgeous, I love that I can make the most of them since it's always sunny - this wasn't the case with my hometown!
Aside from doing administrative work for The Spanish Estate Agent, I enjoy building computers in my spare time and am generally interested in IT, computers and the Internet.
I hope you come down to our office by the beach soon, I'm sure you'll love Estepona as much as I do!

Will Spain suffer as a result of the British vote? What will happen to property, healthcare and tourism for the current and future British living in Spain?

The world woke up to a new order on 24th June 2016. The United Kingdom had voted to leave the European Union, which will, no doubt, result in many changes affecting the whole world one way or another. Here in Spain the shock result resulted in the biggest fall in its stock market history, with Spanish companies in the UK receiving the biggest hit.

Read the full feature from Spain Property Guides

The Costa del Sol is home to The Spanish Estate Agent and its multi-national team. Many of us are British and we have all been drawn to make our homes in this beautiful area.
The outcome of the referendum won’t change the long-standing appeal of stunning countryside, a slower but sociable lifestyle, realistically priced and affordable property and a warm and welcoming climate.
As the last results of the referendum came in, our first deal of the day was accepted. And so the day went on as we took enquiries about properties and talked to people who want to realise the dream of owning their own home in Spain.
Our friendly, professional team members are happy to share their local knowledge and experiences of living here. We look forward to helping you become the owner of that special property in Spain and offer the very best service from initial viewing to completion and beyond.
Email us on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to book a call back at a time to suit you.

Once upon a time a beautiful hillside area above the coast of Puerto Banus on the Costa del Sol attracted the attention of forward thinking real¬ estate developers who had a dream of creating luxurious homes. La Zagaleta was born.

Fast forward 25 years and a 10 square kilometre area has become one of the most exclusive branded, luxury resorts in the world. The sports and golfing facilities are second to none.
With restaurant and catering services, lifestyle and entertainment opportunities, it is set amongst some spectacular mountain scenery. With its proximity to the vibrant marina of Puerto Banus, it is no wonder that La Zagaleta has a worldwide reputation as one of the most prestigious addresses in Europe.

By law property for sale in Spain must be clearly labelled to show the asking price. It should also show what the price indicated includes and excludes by way of fees. Fair enough.
Of course if it is for sale in Spain the price will be in Euros. There may be a financial convertor closeby on the advert showing the equivalent price in another currency. Helpful.
But is that enough?
As a guide, when you are browsing, say, property for sale in Estepona, it probably is. But currency exchange rates can fluctuate wildly, and if you need to buy euros to complete your property purchase, you would be advised to understand a bit about how it all works. You need not become an expert, however a friendly professional can make it a safe experience and save you a lot of money.
The thing is this (and perhaps it is obvious), but whilst the euro price stays the same, what that will eventually cost you in Sterling (or dollars, or whatever) is changing all the time.
With the appropriate advice, you can mitigate this fluctuation.
You wouldn’t buy anything else if you didn’t know the price.

So, perhaps you are ready for a break from the process of buying a home in Spain.
Or you’ve collected the keys to your new villa on a golf course near Estepona and fancy doing something different.
Really - one can take a day trip to the next continent!!
With regard to booking a crossing, there are many offerings and it does pay to shop around.
Here is just one site that lists most if not all options for ferry crossings from southern Spain.
And of course it may be that a day trip feels a bit tight.
Relax - there is a whole world waiting to be discovered on the north African coast.

Before you go check out the Rough guide to Tangiers
Fancy doing it in style? Try Richard Branson's stunning hotel, Kasbah Tamadot, near Marrakech?

Talk to the locals at The Spanish Estate Agent for personal recommendations.

Our family have owned property here for 12 years and we have latterly made the move ourselves to a place near the sea within easy reach of Estepona, Sotogrande and Malaga.
Before that we lived and raised our family in France, and the whole time we have been involved in providing a safe, friendly, professional service to people looking for their ideal property overseas and maybe a new life.
I am absolutely committed to respecting just what a big deal buying and selling property is.

I'm a keen sports fan and a bit of a culture vulture.

I speak English, French and Spanish and have some German and Welsh.

I hope to meet you in Spain.

When the owners of The Spanish Estate Agent became aware that a client had flown all the way to Malaga from Manchester to view a particular villa for sale near Malaga, only to find it was already sold, they stepped in to help.
The local team of property consultants and researchers were mobilised to find an alternative, and 24 hours later had agreed all the detail of the purchase of a very cute property in the old town of Estepona.
They took her to the lawyer, the notaire and onwards to the airport. Then they refunded the cost of the flight.
'I know with property hunting you have to take the view that what is meant to be will be, but I do think the other agency could have warned me the property had sold. I am so grateful to The Spanish Estate Agent. They did a lot more than they had to'.
To speak to Tony or Chloe This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone +34 512 703 166

Everyone at The Spanish Estate Agent believes in enjoying life as much as possible.   When it's time to take a break from days lounging by the pool or on the beach, or you've had your fill of local cultural events and glitzy parties in Fuengirola or Puerto Banus, here are our 3 insider tips for exploring some of the natural beauty of the Costa del Sol. From pristine river pools to unbeatable views down gorges and valleys, leaving the tourist-track has never been so stunning. And it'll give you a break during a property viewing trip to decide just which villa or apartment you are going to buy!

Treasure Cave

La Cueva del Tesoro is the only marina-visited cave in Europe, and many treasures have been discovered within its walls, including cave paintings, pottery and objects from thousands of years ago. However, its name derives from the ancient story that recounts the existence of a hidden treasure put there for Ali Ibn Tasufin Almoravid, Emperor in the twelfth century. Can you find this age-old legend?

Bermejales Lake

About an hour and a half north of Malaga sits an enormous man-made lake called the Embalse de Los Bermejales, near some of the most attractive villages in the region. The water is calm, clean and warm. It is perfect for children to swim in, and they can have fun feeding the many - harmless - fish that call this lake their home. If you’re not convinced by the beautiful surroundings and tranquil atmosphere, try out the canoeing and sailing on the lake, or hiking and biking activities nearby.

Parque Natural Sierras de Tejada

This park is characterised by the white rocks whose brightness comes from the abundant marble in this zone. This mountainous area is dotted with pools of clear water and rocky gorges, as well as local fauna such as eagles and mountain goats. You won’t miss the spectacular waterfalls such as the Petrified Trees Falls (Los Arboles Petrificados), where the lime-rich water mineralized old tree trunks.

On your search for property in Spain, you will surely have come across many properties that are part of a development - or urbanización - and you may have also wondered what that means for you.

Many of the Spanish villas for sale on the Costa del Sol that are part of a development offer many advantages because you pay community fees that go towards general upkeep, so you can enjoy a gorgeously groomed garden without having to get your hands dirty, as well as decoration and maintenance of buildings, water supply, insurance, and often a full-time concierge (portero).

These developments are often in prime locations with fantastic views across valleys and the Med, and offer many facilities such as golf courses, pools, gyms, bars, restaurants and tennis courts. Developments with golf courses are especially popular, as there is usually a discount on green fees, and the knowledge that no-one is going to build a house in front of yours and ruin your view!

Some more advantages include the chance to live in a community with close neighbours, reduced property taxes in comparison with detached homes, and increased security.

Whether your property search takes you to Calahonda, Marbella or Estepona, make sure that the community fees are not excessively high - ask the current owner if the level of maintenance reflects the cost of the fees. Make sure to ask about the rules and regulations of the development - they may, for instance, allow pets!

For more information on living in developments, visit this page on the Just Landed website.

The Spanish Estate Agent on the Costa del Sol is delighted to be able to offer holiday/investment properties in one of the most exciting tourist projects on the Costa del Sol. As part of a 120 million euro project, this 4-acre Crystal Lagoon development is the first of its kind in Europe and is designed to enhance the Costa del Sol, the world's third most visited tourist destination. This is your ideal opportunity to own an apartment set next to the massive lagoon ideal for swimming, kayaking and other water sports. Pioneering technology creates a sustainable environment where the apartment residents will enjoy beach-front living in a safe and secure natural landscape. All the apartments have beautiful, traditional interiors and modern facilities to make living here truly special. Although you may never want to leave the crystal clear lagoon, historic Estepona and beautiful Marbella are a short distance away, Malaga International Airport is only an hour's drive and Gibraltar airport is just half an hour. Either as a beautiful holiday home or an investment in one of the premier developments at the heart of Spain's sunshine coast, don't delay to book your viewing trip

Click here to take a tour

And learn a little more about the company behind the development

Unless you have been entirely out of circulation you will be aware that the UK goes to the polls on 23rd June to make a once-in-a-generation decision on membership of the EU.

What you may not know is that UK citizens resident in Europe for less than 15 years can vote.

Here is the link, www.gov.uk/register-to-vote - highly relevant to those of us living in Estepona, Marbella, Sotogrande…………

We meet plenty of people at The Spanish Estate Agent who are thinking of making a permanent move with their children. We recommend visiting the Spain Mum Abroad website, which has extensive information on schooling, tips, interviews with experts and locals who have made the move and successfully integrated their kids into local and international schools.

One of the first things that many people consider on their search for their new home on the Costa del Sol is the location in relation to the school they have in mind for their children. In Spain, access to state schools is regulated by a complex system of points, some of which are gained by living in a certain area. Therefore, if there is a particular school that you have an eye on, it would be worthwhile to ask them for a list of streets that fall within their catchment area.

If you want your children to have a bilingual education, this is available from both state schools and private international school. The main difference between the two is the curriculum - in state schools the Spanish national curriculum is always followed, while in international schools they may follow a different curriculum in Spanish and other languages, or the Spanish curriculum but in English, or another language. In any case, if you want your child to be exposed to Spanish in school you needn’t worry that they would miss out on this by going to an international school - they will be sure to speak the language with their Spanish classmates.

An essential aspect of summer life in the South of Spain is the frequent and lively celebration of fiestas of which there are over 3000 every year.

The summer fiestas are awaited with much excitement, and if you find that on your search for gorgeous villas for sale on the Costa del Sol you’re passing through a town that is celebrating a fiesta, make sure to find the public fairground of recinto ferial, where you will find an amusement park and casetas, which are tents set up by the town associations. These are often private and can only be accessed upon invitation, but if you ask politely you’re sure to be let in.

Gibraltar airport may just be a hidden key for many people house hunting on the Costa del Sol.

Direct flights to Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, Luton, Gatwick and Heathrow via well known airlines offer easy access from anywhere in England.

Tim is Finance Director of Beaux Villages Immobilier and its subsidiary company in Spain, The Spanish Estate Agent.
'Buying a property on the Costa del Sol is a dream for many Brits. The Spanish Estate Agent is based in sunny, friendly Estepona, about half way between Marbella and Gibraltar. Apartments in Estepona offer great value for British buyers and villas and townhouses throughout the Costa del Sol continue to be popular. Those looking for a rental income return on their Spanish property should look no further - The Spanish Estate Agent can find just the right property, whether it be on the beach, on the 18th green or with its own pool. We look forward to welcoming you to Estepona and the Costa del Sol!'
Tim is also a published author of work on quality processes in business.

Friendly advice on financial aspects of property purchase and sale freely available.

Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

On 13th April 2016 The Spanish Estate Agent opened its doors in Estepona.

Part of the established European property group, Beaux Villages, The Spanish Estate Agent shares its parent company’s unrivalled ethos of complete customer care from initial enquiry through to completion – and beyond!

As the most influential estate agency in France, Beaux Villages. has built a team of over 120 motivated and experienced professionals selling properties priced from a few thousand euros to many millions.