FOR SALE IN SPAIN

LARGE ANDALUCIAN HOME. 5 DOUBLE BEDROOMS, 3 EN SUITE. 3 LOUNGES, 2 KITCHENS, 2 ROOF TERRACES. PATIO. 249.000 EUROS

2010-10-29T15:45:00.039+02:00

For Sale - a superb, large house close to the city of Granada & beaches of the Costa Tropical. A large home, over three floors, that is full of Andalucian charm and Moorish characteristics.

Location - the pretty Lecrín Valley. As authentic as inland Spain gets.

In General: A 5 double bedroom home that is full of character. Located in the historic village of Mondujar, 20 minutes south of Granada. Modernised to the highest standard, yet retaining its Andalucian and Moorish charm.

It has five double bedrooms located over three floors. Three of them en-suite. It is a big house. It's an old house. First registered as a dwelling in the year 1801.

Ground Floor: Wide entrance hall with tiled floor. Large open plan and airy Lounge and Dining Room. Floors are tiled with antique tiles. Large wood burning fire and storage cupboards and shelves. Fully fitted, all electric kitchen with oven and hob. Large en suite bedroom the bathroom of which is exquisitely tiled. Bath with shower over and WC and sink. A charming bedroom that is located on the ground floor, with traditional Spanish/Portuguese bed and bedroom furniture.

Also on the ground floor is the pretty Andalucian patio that leads from the lounge. Full of character you walk across the patio to enter the adjoining 'Bodega' building. On the lower ground floor of this is the bodega lounge. A superb room with built in wine storage. This is a big lounge which is very cool in summer but easily heated in winter. Above the bodega is a further en suite double bedroom. Here is a large, stand under power shower, toilet and basin. From this bedroom stairs lead to an open sun terrace with views towards the main house and the hills of Mondujar. That is just the ground floor of the main house dealt with.

First Floor: Stairs from the entrance lead to a large floor with open plan lounge and dining room. Wood burning stove. All electric and modern kitchen. Tiled bathroom with bath, shower over, toilet and basin. Views to the Andalucian patio. From the dining room there is a 'juliet' balcony looking towards the patio and bodega. The lounge also boasts a recessed seating area. On this floor there are two large double bedrooms. One with fitted wardrobe. Both have "juliet" balconies with views towards the mountains of Mondujar and the other villages of the Lecrín Valley. This floor is very light and airy and stays cool in summer.

Top Floor: From the first floor the staircase continues to the large open roof terrace. This is vast and enjoys the sunshine from dawn until dusk. Leading off the roof terrace is a superb large bedroom with en suite stand under shower room, toilet, bidet and basin. Again this has been tiled very tastefully. Many windows offer plenty of light in this room and excellent views.

The Location: The property is located in Mondujar, close to the motorway that runs between Granada and Motril - each of which are 20 minutes from your front door. This is the most historic village in the Lecrín Valley. The last Moorish Queen of Spain is buried under the church of Mondujar, just a two minute walk from this house. Opposite the house is a distinctive ceramic museum that is open at weekends and holidays. It is a splendid building. Therefore, the house benefits from having no house opposite, offering clear views of the mountains opposite and is in a tranquil setting.

The Alhambra Palace is a 20 minute drive. The beaches of Salobreña and Almuñécar are 30 minutes away. Granada Airport is the same distance. Property summary: This house has been lovingly and carefully renovated and modernised but, crucially, it retains its historic Andalucian characteristics. The top two floors have been rented out as a separate entity as it has its own secure front door. Summer holiday letting brings in up to 350 Euros per week.

The Lecrín Valley: Ever beautiful, the Lecrín Valley is ideally situated being equidistant from the glorious City of Granada and from the coastal town of Motril. The Valley remains popular and represents everything that is best about the more authentic side of Spain.

The Price: This large property is for sale at the small price of valued at 249.000 Euros.

The Contact: for more photos and information

Please call 00 34 958 788 252 or 00 34 677 143 489 or e-mailverninspain@gmail.com or contact via www.twitter.com/lecrin

Here are some photos.

GRANADA TAPAS TOUR GUIDEBOOK - BUY IT NOW!

2009-03-21T14:56:00.008+01:00

The book, "Granada Tapas Tour - 100 tapas bars in Granada" has sold fast. That says much about the popularity of FREE tapa in the province of Granada. There are a few copies of this guidebook left. It can be bought via the PayPal buttons opposite, or at the following outlets throughout Granada province.

In Granada itself, go to Metro Books in Calle Gracia. Dave runs this shop that includes a fine selection of books in both the English and Spanish language, many of which you cannot buy elsewhere in Granada. Metro Books has the added advantage of being close to some of the best tapas bars featured in the Granada Tapas book. The full address for the shop is c/ Gracia 31 - Granada 18002. Telephone 958 261 565. E-mail metrolibros@terra.es

In Almuñecar, on the Costa Tropical, the ever friendly internet shop Zen Net, which is a haven of peace and tranquility, is also selling copies. One of those rare beasts, an internet shop that is so quiet you can hear yourself think, is run by Nicolas and Louisa. They offer a vast array of services, including language courses, translation and help with all things computer based.

In the Lecrín Valley the Granada Tapas Tour Guidebook is available at both bookshops in Durcal, at the Le Mans petrol station in Talara, at Los Naranjos restaurant in Melegis, at Coviran in Restabal and at the offices of Lecrin Valley Property, right opposite the church in Melegis.

In La Alpujarra you can buy the book at the tourist information shop in the plaza of Pampaneira or at the La Urdimbre shop in Capiliera. This happens to be opposite one of our favourite bars, El Asador.

The cost is 10 euros or pounds, plus postage, via the "Buy Now" buttons opposite.

BUY A HOUSE ON THE COSTA BRAVA

2008-08-31T14:07:00.001+02:00

Adrian McGinley operates the friendly, family run agency www.immo.am.com from the pretty bay of Sa Riera, near Begur on the Costa Brava. He can find you a new home in the region, or perhaps a new business venture to take on.

Here he tells Vernon Grant about why he believes the area is a "cut above" others in Spain and the specialised, personal service his family can offer to those searching for a home in this picturesque corner of Spain. If you want to buy anywhere in Catalonia, contact Adrian.

Q. What is the current state of the housing market in your area?Adrian: The Baix Emporda is hot. There are a lot of people who want a place in Barcelona’s playground. You can compare this area with Tuscany in Italy – which explains why it’s not the cheapest place to buy property in Spain. It is though less expensive then Tuscany!

Q. Has there been an increase in demand for houses in your area?

Adrian: Absolutely. More and more people are escaping from City life to the quiet areas. Last year we sold more houses to people from the Barcelona. If you buy a property from us our interest in you does not end with the signing of the deeds. We can assist with building work, renovations and we help out with Spanish law and taxes.

Q. Do many British people buy property in that part of Spain? Adrian: We see more and more people that fly to Girona with Ryan Air to London once a week, and live here the rest of the time. I would say this area is comprised of 70% Catalans, 10 %English, 10% Dutch and 10% from elsewhere.

Q. What are British buyers looking for?

Adrian: We sold a castle in the countryside to some British and a week later a little flat on the beach to other Brits. That is the beauty of it. There truly is a property for every taste and price.

Q. Begur is not a place that well known by British buyers. What are the attractions of the place?

Adrian: It is located near some of the most beautiful bays on the Costa Brava. In the centre of the town there is something to do all the year. Begur stays alive out of high season.

Q What price would someone have to pay for an apartment within walking distance of a beach.

Adrian: A good quality, two bedroom apartment at Playa de Pals would cost approximately 200.000 Euros. In Calella, where we are based, a similar property would be 300.000 Euros.

Q What other factors tempt British buyers to your area?

Adrian: Golf courses, beautiful beaches and great food. Don’t forget that the best restaurant in the world, El Bulli, is only 40 km away and that this area has more Michelin stars than the whole of London. We are only one hour away from Barcelona, quite possibly the most exciting City in the world

Q In your experience, are British buyers made welcome in Catalonia? Adrian: Catalans are very friendly but you must adapt and they love it if you learn to speak Catalan. Failing that they would rather you speak English than Spanish. They are proud of being Catalan and they are firm believers in hard work.

Q What are the top 3 reasons for living in the north east of Spain? Adrian: That’s easy. Wine, food and the quality of live – in that order!

Q. Finally, what advice would you offer a potential British buyer who is interested in buying in your region?

Adrian: Do your homework and forget about the way everything is done in Britain. Local planning laws and government work very differently here. Get good advice from those who have bought here and those who know the rules and regulations.

Contact Adrian via

www.immo-am.com

By e-mail amc.services@hotmail.com

Telephone (00 34) 666 694 896

HOW TO SELL YOUR HOUSE in SPAIN

2008-06-16T18:45:00.000+02:00

The following article was written by Martin Bright of www.spaincostatropical.com and is published here with his permission. Photographs © copyright of Vernon Grant of http://www.vernongrant.blogspot.com/

Increasingly popular in a poor sales market that requires and desires more new ways of approaching the sale of a property is the recognised concept of 'home-staging.' Though far more established in the US real estate market it is fast becoming a popular way of aiding vendors without having to spend vast amounts of money on re-decorating, fitting new kitchens and bathrooms, or adding a few decorative scrolls or stencils. Here the main inspiration is to simply move the visitor's eyes away from the flaws and focus interest on a few attractive features.

While this relatively new 'industry' remains largely un-regulated; for many it remains a simple blend of common sense with an artistic flair. Yet it is surprising just how many vendors show neither an understanding nor appreciation of just how a few simple actions can radically help to sell a property; see illustrations right. Nevertheless as the industry develops there are now firms offering not only consultancy but even complete 'home staging' packages to rent all or part of their portfolio of fixtures and fittings to help elaborate a property.

It is often overlooked, that psychological studies have shown that an empty property remains on the market twice as long as one that has been furnished, since it helps the buyer to see exactly what can be done with the space. Second it has been shown that the classic buyer will decide the appeal of a property within the first 8 seconds of stepping inside; and to this it is important not to forget the 'curb appeal' of the property too. A buyer will take as much first impression information from the external outlook of the house before entering – and once inside both the agents chat and the vendors enhancements can greatly assist to promote a sale.

Creating a property that looks appealing can be complicated if only because you will need to make time and be creative; and not all of us have this ability if we are selling our second home or too busy with our jobs. Despite thinking that you and your personal taste and style are best, there is a huge variation from a house that looks pleasant to live in and one that is satisfying to move in to. Your visitors may see your property as seemingly homely and lived-in, but this alone may not encourage them to live in it themselves. Your buyer needs to be able to see them and their family living in the property, and you alone may not be able to produce the best and most appropriate impression.

Nevertheless before you reach and call in the experts; here are a few simple tips and clues to help you start the road to 'home staging' and sell your property sooner rather than later…
De-clutter and depersonalise – look at your property as an impersonal object; and get rid of the dust collectors, the piles of books and magazines, and use the time to begin to pack away those things you will take, or to take things you no longer need to the charity shop. Remembering that less is more! The best way of making a property impersonal is to remove family photos, religious ornaments, posters, certificates, awards and other similar souvenirs; and to replace with non-descript images or pictures in simple frames.

Landscaping rooms – here the emphasis is on space and creating openness and comfort; one of the main principles of home staging. Make rooms as spacious as possible, move furniture around in that space, and if necessary begin to store any excess pieces away. There is nothing worse than moving through a property where a door knocks a piece of ill-placed furniture when entering a room, or you and your buyer are forced to squeeze between tightly furnished passage ways, toy filled bedrooms, and so forth. Begin storing the non-essential items away ready for your move; and remember to complete the landscape by opening blinds and curtains to fill natural light into the rooms during the day, or illuminate with subtle lamps and candles in the evenings. Not forgetting to remove any tired rugs, stray tea clothes and bath towels!

Fresh appeal – does not just mean clean and tidy. All too often vendors of any nationality too soon forget or simply ignore a few basic presentation principles when they are selling a property. When selling a car you never think not to clean and wax it, paint the rust spots over and even varnish the tyres; so why when selling a house do owners too often neglect to tidy, to clean - if only to make the house more presentable for the agency photographer. A property is either an expensive necessity or a momentary luxury purchase and yet this particular commodity is all too often neglected in the way it is presented.

So, please vendors, simply remind yourself how all those houses you looked at when you were buying seemed untidy, cluttered, dirty, and just go around your home now and count the cobwebs, the smeared tiles and walls. Check, correct and then present your property for sale at its very best.

Masking – or dressing is the subtle art of hiding or shifting attention from an object or space in order to make it appear more attractive, spacious, and pleasant. A few inexpensive treatments include up-lighters to the ceiling to give the illusion of greater height, or bed covers and throws to add a little "boutique hotel chic" style, neutral coloured cushions scattered around sofas and beds, clear clutter (and ashtrays) from tables, use wide ribbons or invest in decorative curtain tie-backs, a few drops of perfumed bleach in sinks and drains prior to a visit, and even freshly brewed coffee, a television switched on (to show reception and mask external noise) and removing animal feed trays – all can contribute to mask a vendors presence and make your house hunter welcome.

Treatments – not only refers to the walls and floors but includes soft furnishings and use of fabrics. Most consultants I have spoken with agree that wall treatments and floorings are most appealing when offered in neutral colors and use understated patterns. Paint colours work best in a neutral form to encourage the illusion of space and also reinforce openness. However this may not always be the case, predominantly with the luxury home market, where using bold colour statements and daring finishes are often deemed far more attractive. Therefore before you decide to decorate your property to sell it, take time to consider your market.

Accessorising – is not only cushions and pictures, frames and decorative objects it is also about the use of glass, mirrors and water too. One of the most popular methods used by consultants is the choice and use of mirrors – in fact the bigger the better. To make the most of the effect too then place it close to a corner, or even better position mirrors opposite each other; and again this will enhance the room and make it far more spacious. Other considerations include fresh cut flowers dressed in simple but large clear water filled crystal vases, dining tables prepared and dressed for guests (even if they are not due) can make your visitor feel at home – as well as giving an impression of size and comfort.

Exterior facing – is the method used to promote 'curb appeal' and to make your visitor really want to see inside the property. Improving a home’s exterior appeal needs to be considered together with any interior improvements; and can cost you just a few Euros. Dressing the outside with potted plants typical of the region, geraniums, and basket hangers can really help to make an appealing “cared for “ treatment; not to mention that they will shift the eye away from any paint blisters, cracked window frames or other unsightly blemishes.

Know your buyer – in the sense that you have already an idea to whom you are intending to sell your property to; another foreign re-locator, a local, someone of your own nationality, a family, retired, etc. Believe it or not this alone will strongly influence how you present yourself and your property to any visiting buyer; and consequently you may find a home staging consultants advice most helpful.

Home staging consultants can assist with an independent appraisal, offer un-biased help and advice to make your property more appealing to potential buyers, especially in areas where there is much similar choices on offer. They can help to ensure that your property is, and remains, as presentable as is possible when the buyers come to view. Home Staging consultant will ideally be locally based, have established links with local suppliers, have a knowledge of the market, and also be aware of what people are looking for; where you the vendor might not.

A good consultant will offer an initial objective opinion regarding the state and style of your property. This is especially useful if you have lived in your property for some length of time, it is too easy to become attached to a property; and therefore be critical. The consultant will not be so attached but will have one simple aim; to make YOUR property that much easier to sell. Nevertheless, using a consultancy will not guarantee a sale, but it can be an opportunity that gives you the best possible chance in today’s market.

Local professional suppliers offering a home staging service include:

Throughout the Granada province:- Garden design, planting and maintenance, contact Nola Lyttle on (00 34) 958 788 252 or e-mail her via nolainspain@gmail.com Her website is www.granadagardens.blogspot.com

TROPICANA PROPERTIES ALMUNECAR SPAIN

2008-06-02T13:49:00.000+02:00

Nola Lyttle spends a day with Tropicana Properties in Almuñécar to discuss how best agents can challenge the recent negative publicity about the Spanish property market.

There has been much bad press for the Spanish property market in recent weeks. Within Spain, and in the UK, the doom merchants have been hard at work predicting difficult times ahead for the country in general and for property agents in particular. At times like this it is crucial that both those selling and buying property deal with an Inmobiliaria they can trust. It is when solid experience of the Spanish housing market, and a proven track record of good client liaison, comes to the fore.

I asked Bernard Calatayud, of Almuñecar based Tropicana Properties, about how they approach their job.

"Firstly every property must be visited, photographed and discussed prior to returning to the office. We type up the details and upload them to the new look company website – http://www.spaincostatropical.com/ We download the details to Kyero, our main marketing portal, and print them for use in our client friendly files and for the window displays. We also organise press advertising.

"Secondly we evaluate volumes of response by email. Every day we also greet customers who walk in off the street to buy or to look through our properties. Crucially we spend a great deal of time ‘qualifying’ a purchaser. That way we avoid taking them on a wild goose chase to properties they either have no interest in or cannot afford. We also avoid wasting our vendors’ time with people who are not suitable buyers for their property."

Once you enter their centrally located offices in Almuñecar you are not just a name or a reference number on a sheet of paper. You are a real human being and an important client.

Bernard says: "We love the job that we do and we believe we are good at it. We take our prospective clients to visit properties all along the coast, up into the countryside and educate them as much as possible into all the vagaries of buying in Spain. Eventually, but of course not every day, we find a match and at last our hard work pays off in a ‘sale’. "

Anyone wishing to sell their Property through Tropicana Properties must supply them with all the following documents. The registered title deed or the nota simple informativa from the Land Registry Office, a copy of the Council Taxes (IBI), and details of the community charges and the full address of the property. Speak to six different people about the legal requirements of buying and selling property in Spain and you will likely get six very contradictory offers of advice. Best then to speak with the true experts.

Bernard says: "There is a law in Spain effective from 2005 which specifies that any buyer coming to a registered Estate Agency such as Tropicana Properties SL, has the right to ask for a "Documento Informativo Abreviado de la Vivienda". This is a document specifying all the particulars of a given property, similar to a ‘search’ in England.

"If there are glitches, inconsistencies or errors, this is the time to amend them with the help of our registered lawyer. We are here to help in any way we can. We ensure all paperwork is in order BEFORE we begin to sell. We would much rather spend 100% of our time knowing that the fruits of our labour will result in a sale that will not collapse. Some agents lose sight of the fact that this is, after all, the purpose of our business.

"Time and time again we discover that the Deeds of the Property are incorrect or, worse still, missing all together! This results in the collapse of the sale, disappointment for the seller, heartache for the buyer and a total waste of time for all concerned. At Tropicana Properties we avoid this at all costs"

Continuity and reliability of service are what any buyer or seller is seeking, especially in what is an increasingly competitive Spanish housing market. The very competitiveness of the property market has led to some agents falling by the wayside during the past year. What vendors and buyers need to know at times like this is that they are dealing with a firmly established operation. A company that has been around for a long time and will be working hard for many years to come. Tropicana deal with clients from all over the world and do not limit themselves to dealing with one nationality.

Now the company is stepping up its campaign to prove that the housing market in Spain is healthy and that buying or selling here does not have to be a difficult or headache inducing process.

Bernard adds: "We would like to build an even better reputation here in Almuñecar than the one we have already. One where we can guarantee that the sale price of the property is in line with the market rates and where we can have the total confidence of the buyers and sellers who will know that their valuable time is not going to be wasted".

Tropicana Properties are in the "premier league" of Inmobiliaria. Regardless of fluctuations in the property market, that fact will never change.