A touch of Spanish luxury. Polish buyers
Spanish luxury – ADRIAN KOŁODZIEJ OF LUXURY BOUTIQUE INTERVIEWS MARC PRITCHARD OF TAYLOR WIMPEY ESPAÑA
Since the war in Ukraine began, Poles have been among the top nationalities investing in Spain. Marc Pritchard, Director of Sales and Marketing at Taylor Wimpey España, explains what it is about Spain that holds such appeal.
Have you had many Polish buyers in the past couple of years?
Absolutely – Poles were our top nationality of buyers in 2022, accounting for 17% of our total reservations here in Spain. So far in 2023 (year-to-date March), Poles have accounted for 11% of total reservations, second only to buyers from Germany.
Which areas of Spain do Polish buyers favour?
Polish buyers show a definite preference for the Costa Blanca. 87% of our Polish buyers in 2022 and 75% so far in 2023 have reserved properties in this area. With 200 kilometres of coastline, including many stunning white sandy beaches, it’s easy to see the appeal.
The Costa Blanca also offers superb value for money compared to many other parts of the Spanish coast. Our homes at Amara in Gran Alacant cost from €220,000 plus VAT. They come with on-site communal pools, gardens and a playpark, all close to the local shops and beach. You get a lot for your money in the Costa Blanca.
Is there more to do in the Costa Blanca than simply lie on the beach?
So much more! There are all sorts of water sports to try out along the coast and some beautiful golf courses for those who like to spend time on the fairways. There are Spanish luxury spas, fine dining restaurants and plenty of opportunities for retail therapy in high-end boutiques and malls stocked with international brands.
The Costa Blanca has a rich architectural heritage and some stunning national parks. You can ride horses, visit castles, explore caverns and caves and so much more. There’s also a wonderful local culinary scene, so visitors can experience Spanish luxury gastronomy at its best.
Which towns in the Costa Blanca are most worth visiting?
It depends on what you’re looking for from your time in Spain. Alicante is a great city to explore, while Dénia, Xàbia (Jávea) and Gran Alacant are well worth a visit if you’re looking for charm on a smaller scale. And there are countless pretty villages to discover.
Is there plenty of choice when it comes to holiday homes in the Costa Blanca?
Certainly. Buyers can choose between frontline golf apartments and homes close to the beach, as well as properties in more urban locations. There are holiday homes here to suit a wide range of needs.
In terms of property style, many homes feature open plan kitchen and living areas, as well as outdoor space in the form of terraces, gardens and top floor solariums.
Since the pandemic, many buyers have been seeking homes which encompass working space too, as an increase in working from home arrangements have afforded people more freedom about where they work. That’s something we’ve factored into the design of all the latest homes we’re building in Spain – we create spaces that can be used flexibly.
Are Polish buyers interested in any other areas of Spain?
Some of our Polish buyers have been drawn to the Costa del Sol, with its winning combination of beach life and sunshine. Marbella is a city that holds plentiful international appeal, as do locations like Mijas, Estepona, Nueva Andalucia and Istán. Casares Beach is also proving to be a popular area with property buyers from a range of international locations.
What are your top tips for Poles considering buying property in Spain?
I think it’s important to be clear on your expectations in terms of location and property type. Spain has a lot to offer and the different regions are very diverse, so it’s worth researching thoroughly which areas most appeal to you. A checklist of essential amenities (such as an on-site pool) is also helpful, as is a list of any other requirements (such as being within walking distance of a beach). That way, you can stay focused during your property search and ensure that the home you choose ticks all the right boxes.
Think about how you plan to access the property too. Will you be flying or minimising your carbon footprint by taking the train? Those kinds of decisions can impact the locations in which you might want to buy, so need upfront consideration.
I would advise visiting Spain at different times of year during your research too, to experience the location(s) you like off-season, when they are quieter.
Also, be firm about your budget. Work out what you can afford before you fall in love with a particular property. Plenty of homes in Spain will capture your heart, but it’s important to buy using your head as well, and that means sticking to your budget.
Finally, make sure you have a helpful, responsive lawyer who can guide you through the legal requirements of the purchase and ensure that all the paperwork is in order. And if you’re buying off-plan, chose a reputable developer with a long history of building homes in Spain.
Any final advice?
Try to enjoy the purchase experience. Buying a home abroad can feel stressful at times, particularly if it’s the first time you’ve done it. But it’s also an adventure with plenty of discoveries to be made along the way. So try to enjoy the journey as well as the end result!