The Costa del Sol first began actively cultivating its tourism business at the beginning of the 20th century. More than 100 years later, it remains one of Spain’s most popular destination for those seeking sun, sand and relaxation.
Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading Spanish home builder Taylor Wimpey España, knows the Costa del Sol inside out. He has played an active role in the delivery of holiday homes such as the spacious apartments of La Floresta Sur, near Marbella (available from €228,000 plus VAT), and the stylish townhouses at Horizon Golf at La Cala Golf Resort (from €435,000) for the past 20 years.
Now, Marc shares his thoughts on precisely what it is that gives the Costa del Sol such lasting appeal and what’s in store for the region in 2019.
What is the outlook for the Costa del Sol in 2019?
We expect to see a steady increase in property prices over the course of this year along the Costa del Sol. We also expect visitor numbers to remain stable in 2019, following a meteoric rise in 2018 (Spanish visitor numbers shot up by 10% in 2018, according to the country’s national statistics institute, the INE).
Malaga province now welcomes more than 5 million tourists per year and we anticipate the region continuing to enhance the leisure facilities and cultural pursuits on offer in order to cater to those visitors.
What are the top 2019 Costa del Sol hotspots likely to be?
This year, it’s all about Malaga, Torremolinos and Marbella, both as holiday destinations and as locations in which to buy second homes. Foreign buyers now account for a full 31% of property purchases in Malaga and we expect that figure to remain much the same in 2019, making Malaga a key hotspot for the year ahead.
Are there any ‘up and coming’ parts of the Costa del Sol that second home buyers should keep an eye on this year?
Absolutely. Marbella has long been synonymous with fashion and glamour and its reputation is growing rapidly, with visitors from around the globe discovering this Spanish gem.
Interestingly, we’re seeing Torremolinos coming back into fashion right now too. The town has left its rather dubious 1980s reputation in the dust and is now a popular haunt for both Spanish and international visitors. In fact, its popularity with domestic tourists means that Torremolinos has a wonderful, authentic Spanish vibe.
What is it about the Costa del Sol that causes so many holidaymakers to want to return there again and again?
There are several reasons that the Costa del Sol remains so popular. The bountiful sunshine and year-round warm climate call to many visitors, but there’s plenty more to the area than just the ‘sol’ for which it is so well known. From outstanding sandy beaches to over 70 golf courses that can be enjoyed all year long, this stretch of coastline offers a wealth of pleasurable experiences.
The lifestyle and gastronomy of the local area are also attractive, as are its many cultural and historic monuments. From a practical standpoint, the Costa del Sol is very well connected, with an international airport and a number of low-cost carriers. The fact that English is widely spoken and that the cost of living here is low compared to many other European countries also serves the area well in terms of attracting visitors from overseas.
Why is it that the Costa del Sol works so well as a retirement destination, as well as a place to visit?
Many people seek out year-round warmth for their retirement years, which obviously the Costa del Sol can provide. It’s also got great health services, a low cost of living, a relaxed lifestyle and good connections, be they by plane, bullet train, boat (there are several marinas) or car along the region’s modern motorways.
What tips would you give to anyone thinking of buyer a Costa del Sol property this year?
Always buy direct from a well-known developer such as Taylor Wimpey España! We’ve been building here for 60 years, which means that buyers can expect high quality finishes, native speakers of their first language and exceptional customer service. Sadly that’s not the case with every developer in the Costa del Sol.
What are the latest building/design trends in terms of second homes on the Costa del Sol?
Contemporary properties in this area boast large windows and terraces in order to maximise enjoyment of the Spanish sun. Interiors are open plan for relaxed and connected family living, with tech features including USB sockets, WiFi and charging points for electric cars.
We’re also seeing plenty of energy saving appliances in use in the latest Costa del Sol homes, from modern showers to highly efficient heat pumps and air conditioning units.
Other than the Costa del Sol, where should second home buyers be considering closely in Spain this year?
The Costa Blanca is always a good choice. It offers lower prices than the Costa del Sol, while still offering an excellent climate, relaxed lifestyle and good international connections. Mallorca and Ibiza are also great locations for second homes, offering a vibrant, stylish experience that comes with all the unique quirks of island life.
For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit http://www.taylorwimpeyspain.
