Costa del Sol Blog

Malagas famous people – Antonio Banderas

October 2024

From Málaga to Hollywood Stardom Antonio Banderas, born José Antonio Domínguez Bandera on August 10, 1960, in Málaga, Spain, is a celebrated actor, filmmaker, and singer. His journey from a small theatre in Málaga to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood is a testament to his talent, versatility, and determination. Early Life and Beginnings Banderas … Continue reading "Malagas famous people – Antonio Banderas"

Rental investment? Be careful!

October 2024

  Thinking about investing in rental property? Proceed with caution! Right now, there’s a political crackdown in Spain on tourist rentals, happening at national, regional, and local levels. National Level: The government is blaming tourist rentals for the shortage of affordable long-term housing. This, in my view, is a tactic to divert attention from the … Continue reading "Rental investment? Be careful!"

Malagas famous people – Pablo Picasso

October 2024

A Revolutionary Artist Pablo Picasso, born on October 25, 1881, in Málaga, Spain, is one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. His full name, reflecting his Spanish heritage, is Pablo Diego José Francisco de Paula Juan Nepomuceno Crispín Crispiniano María Remedios de la Santísima Trinidad Ruiz Picasso. Picasso’s work revolutionised the art … Continue reading "Malagas famous people – Pablo Picasso"

How Sustainability is Shaping the Costa del Sol Property Market

September 2024

Are sustainability issues affecting the Costa del Sol property market? How has it evolved over the last ten years? In recent years, sustainability has become a pivotal factor in the Costa del Sol property market. With growing awareness of climate change and environmental impact, both buyers and developers are increasingly prioritizing green initiatives and sustainable … Continue reading "How Sustainability is Shaping the Costa del Sol Property Market"

Protect your eyes while driving

September 2024

The importance of sunglasses and traffic regulations in Spain! It’s well-known that the sun’s rays can cause significant eye damage, making sunglasses essential when the sun is strong. According to the Spanish traffic authorities (DGT), it’s crucial to wear approved sunglasses. They recommend purchasing them from an optician or a store qualified to sell such … Continue reading "Protect your eyes while driving"

Water restrictions in Andalusia

August 2024

Water restrictions in Andalusia: A challenge for Real Estate Agents, buyers and holiday makers As we approach the summer of 2024, we are facing a new challenge in Andalusia. The Junta de Andalucía has recently introduced water restrictions affecting both irrigation and the use of swimming pools. These measures are in response to the extreme … Continue reading "Water restrictions in Andalusia"

Navigating the Future of Real Estate

August 2024

As one of the Valuation and Listing Managers at StartGroup and a dedicated representative of GIPE at CEPI, I recently had the pleasure of attending CEPI’s General Meeting in Munich, Germany, held on June 6-7. This gathering was not just another meeting; it was a convergence of minds dedicated to shaping the future of the … Continue reading "Navigating the Future of Real Estate"

What is an LPO?

August 2024

What is an LPO and why is it important when buying a property – or is it? StartGroups CEO Christofer Fogelberg explains about this controversial document in layman’s terms.LPO stands for licencia de primera occupacion or “first occupancy licence” in English. It can also be called cédula de habitabilidad sometimes. A property can lack an … Continue reading "What is an LPO?"

The future of Real Estate

August 2024

  The future of the Real Estate profession in Spain! New guarantees for clients! The profession Real Estate Agent is an unregulated profession in Spain since the year 2000. Before that an agent had to have an API or GIPE license to be able to work legally in the sector. The government’s idea at that … Continue reading "The future of Real Estate"

The spanish fan – abanico

August 2024

It is getting hotter !!! As it is heating up here in Spain, the abanico (the fan) is one of our favourite tools.  The abanico, or fan, has been a companion to women throughout the centuries. Introduced to Europe by the Portuguese in the 16th century, it quickly became an essential fashion accessory. But beyond … Continue reading "The spanish fan – abanico"

What about 2024? Will it go up or down?

January 2024

Every year, the first questions our clients ask are “How is the market doing?” or “Will prices rise or fall this year?” It feels more challenging to answer every passing year. Maybe it’s because we now have access to so much information, which makes it even harder to do a proper analysis. Or maybe it’s … Continue reading "What about 2024? Will it go up or down?"

Gas inspections and chimney sweeping in Spain

January 2024

Are you aware of the Regulations on Thermal Installations in Buildings (RITE) in Spain? If you’re a homeowner, it’s crucial to understand these regulations, especially when it comes to gas inspections and checks. Gas Inspections vs. Checks: What’s the Difference? While both gas inspections and checks are mandatory, they serve different purposes. Gas inspections are for general gas installations, … Continue reading "Gas inspections and chimney sweeping in Spain"

StartGroup employees and training

December 2023

StartGroup has a long tradition of training employees, both in-house and externally. Since more than a decade all employees entering StartGroup have completed training courses for external certification in key areas of the real estate trade, such as Andalusian Property Law, Data Protection (GDPR) and Prevention of Money Laundering according to the European legislation. We … Continue reading "StartGroup employees and training"

SIMED congress, Malaga 2023

November 2023

On November 17th, 2023, Christofer Fogelberg, the CEO of StartGroup Real Estates, delivered a speech at the SIMED congress in Malaga. SIMED is the largest fair for real estate agencies and promoters in the Malaga province, held annually at the Palacio de Congresos in Malaga. As a representative of the Real Estate guild GIPE, where … Continue reading "SIMED congress, Malaga 2023"

When is the compulsory register for estate agents coming to Andalusia?

November 2023

At the time of writing, my colleague and I have just attended the A.P.I. A.N.A.I.’s annual congress, Evolution, in Barcelona. There were around 1000 participants mainly from Catalonia and Valencia. These two regions are the ones that have so far introduced a mandatory register, Catalonia in 2010 and Valencia in 2022. In Spain as a … Continue reading "When is the compulsory register for estate agents coming to Andalusia?"

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF SUCCESS

September 2023

StartGroup, a renowned real estate agency on the Costa del Sol, recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. Founded by Christofer Fogelberg and Pascal van der Woude, the company has grown from strength to strength since its inception. With offices in Calahonda, La Cala, and Torrequebrada Benalmádena, StartGroup has become a trusted name in the region. To … Continue reading "CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF SUCCESS"

When do prices go down? Or do they?

September 2023

This is a question we get asked all the time and there are many different opinions about it! At the moment the market remains strong with high prices and many sales, despite interest rate rises in many parts of the world. The Costa del Sol is popular and many nationalities are buying here even though … Continue reading "When do prices go down? Or do they?"

Is water supply a factor when buying a property on the Costa del Sol?

July 2023

When I was a child in the 1980-ies, I spent my summers in Benalmadena and I remember that the water supply was often cut off several hours during the day as there were water shortages. But thanks to several investments in infrastructure on the west side of the coast the water shortages have been but … Continue reading "Is water supply a factor when buying a property on the Costa del Sol?"

We asked AI why to buy a holiday home on the Costa del Sol

July 2023

Do you want to enjoy the sun, the sea and the Spanish lifestyle all year round? We asked AI why to buy a holiday home on the Costa del Sol and here are the top reasons why you should buy here. Climate The Costa del Sol has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot … Continue reading "We asked AI why to buy a holiday home on the Costa del Sol"

Kids activities on the Costa del Sol

July 2023

A vacation on the Costa del Sol is so much more than just being on the beach or hanging around the pool! It can sometimes be a challenge to travel with kids so here are some suggestions from the staff of StartGroup of activities you can do with your children. BIOPARC Located in the centre … Continue reading "Kids activities on the Costa del Sol"

How to buy a car in Spain

March 2023

As one of the biggest real estate companies on the Costa del Sol we have many international clients. After buying the dream home on the Costa del Sol the next step is often to buy a car. So one question that pops up regularly to StartGroup´s sales team is “How do we buy a car … Continue reading "How to buy a car in Spain"

Traffic speed limits and fines in Spain

March 2023

As a real estate agent on the Costa del Sol,  we often get questions from potential home buyers about driving in Spain. Especially from clients from Scandinavian countries where the “tempo” of driving is a lot calmer than in Spain. And also of course from our clients from Great Britain, who are used to drive … Continue reading "Traffic speed limits and fines in Spain"

Boating and yachting on the Costa del Sol

January 2023

Many people look at buying real estate on the Costa del Sol for its unrivalled yachting offering. With a stretch an almost 200km long coastline, and fantastic sailing conditions almost all year round, the Costa del Sol has carved itself as a nautical dream. With a rich sailing legacy, the Costa del Sol has a … Continue reading "Boating and yachting on the Costa del Sol"

La Carihuela and Torremolinos

December 2022

This historic Torremolinos fishing village of La Carihuela is renowned for its delectable seafood and spacious Mediterranean beach, which has ideal swimming conditions. La Carihuela started out as a fishing village but, with the growth of Torremolinos as a coastal resort, it has become equally as popular for its huge, sandy beach and all-round good … Continue reading "La Carihuela and Torremolinos"

Andalucian cuisine

October 2022

The Romans first taught the Andalucians how to cultivate wheat and vines and used the fish from the seas to produce the best garum in the empire while the Arab conquest of Spain also brought  with it new farming techniques and an invasion of exotic new produce. Further improvements to irrigation systems helped the cultivation … Continue reading "Andalucian cuisine"

Costa del Golf

October 2022

With more than 50 golf courses on the Costa del Sol, the region has earned its nickname the ‘Costa del Golf’ – and for very good reason – since this glorious part of Spain features four of the top ten ranked golf courses in Europe. The Costa Del Sol also enjoys warm winters, and ideal … Continue reading "Costa del Golf"

Nature and Climate in Benalmádena

September 2022

Buying property in Spain can be an arduous affair. With great value real estate found across the country, it can take time for prospective buyers just to narrow their search down to a specific province, let alone a specific town. Andalucia remains one of the most affordable places in Spain, but this, paradoxically, does not … Continue reading "Nature and Climate in Benalmádena"

Culture in Benalmádena

September 2022

Benalmádena is renowned for its cultural festivities. Unlike much of Europe, Spain, and specifically Andalucia, still celebrates Spain’s religious and cultural heritage with a fervour unheard of in the rest of Western Europe. This is one of many reasons to buy property in Andalucia and Benalmádena specifically, but one often overlooked when house-hunting on the … Continue reading "Culture in Benalmádena"

Things to do in Benalmádena

August 2022

The town of Benalmádena is steeped in an illustrious history, having been occupied and conquered throughout the ages by cultures and settlers that have imbued it with a cultural edge that is unrivalled on the Costa del Sol. These days, the town is thriving and stands as an understated gem in southern Spain making buying … Continue reading "Things to do in Benalmádena"

David Hemmings, StartGroup’s Calahonda property valuer will give you the best advice when selling!

March 2022

Selling your property in Sitio de Calahonda? Why David Hemmings, StartGroup’s Calahonda property valuer will give you the best advice! When selling your Spanish property there are a lot of things to take into consideration. How much is my Spanish property worth? Which nationality are the buyers at the moment? How do I best market … Continue reading "David Hemmings, StartGroup’s Calahonda property valuer will give you the best advice when selling!"

Andalusia lowers the property transfer tax in 2021! The ITP is now 7%

April 2021

Great news for property buyers! Lower property transfer tax for 2021!  The ITP is now 7%! Lower property transfer tax Andalusia 2021. The Junta de Andalucia is as of today, the 28th of April 2021, lowering the ITP tax (impuesto de transmisiones patrimoniales). ITP is the tax paid by the buyer at a property purchase … Continue reading "Andalusia lowers the property transfer tax in 2021! The ITP is now 7%"

FAQ about buying property in Spain- COVID & BREXIT

January 2021

Frequently Asked Questions about buying property in Spain- COVID & BREXIT StartGroup answers to the most common questions from our clients about buying property in Spain after Brexit and during the COVID pandemic. COVID QUESTIONS: Are the prices coming down due to COVID, lock downs and quarantines? During 2020 we at StartGroup did not see … Continue reading "FAQ about buying property in Spain- COVID & BREXIT"

Buy bank repossesions in Spain?

September 2020

Bank repossessions in Corona times? Lots of clients contact us in their search for cheap bank repossessions on the Costa del Sol. Is a bank repossession normally a good deal or not? Should you buy bank repossessions in Spain? Lets find out! I am writing this in the beginning of September after what has been … Continue reading "Buy bank repossesions in Spain?"

Corona 2020 – forecast for the Costa del Sol Property Market?

May 2020

Corona 2020 – forecast for the Costa del Sol Property Market? This is our forecast for the Costa del Sol Property Market 2020.      By Christofer Fogelberg, Partner Agent StartGroup In the current situation of general quarantine and crisis in great parts of the world many of our customers ask themselves what will happen.  … Continue reading "Corona 2020 – forecast for the Costa del Sol Property Market?"

Discover Costa del Sol’s countryside!

May 2020

Discover Costa del Sol’s countryside! Andalusia is a vast expanse when you are from a smaller country like myself it takes a little time to adjust, endless rolling countryside “campo” to explore and potential to get lost!! I have a trusted hirsute companion to assist and sometimes hinder but is always grateful for every adventure! He … Continue reading "Discover Costa del Sol’s countryside!"

My favourite restaurant on Costa del Sol

April 2020

My favourite restaurant on the Costa del Sol My favourite restaurant on Costa del Sol: Much of the pleasure, if you own an apartment on the Costa del Sol, is that you can go out almost every day and eat at all these countless restaurants that are available. It does’t cost too much neither, like … Continue reading "My favourite restaurant on Costa del Sol"

A Weekend by the Atlantic Ocean

April 2020

A Weekend trip Camping – Torre de la Peña A weekend by the Atlantic Ocean: If you did not know, the Strait of Gibraltar is the connection between The Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. One may not think that there is not much of a difference between the two coastal shores. However, as soon as … Continue reading "A Weekend by the Atlantic Ocean"

Home Sweet Home for abandoned animals

April 2020

Home sweet home for abandoned animals! As so many other people have ever done in life, one day we wondered what we could do to help abandoned animals. How can we help and feel useful in the process? At home we decided to join an association to help abandoned animals, we offered our home to … Continue reading "Home Sweet Home for abandoned animals"

Our Favourite Beaches Costa del Sol

April 2020

Costa del Sol and it’s beaches. An important part of our life on the coast is its beaches. We asked our colleagues and some friends to share their favorite beaches for the best beach-life!  Here are  our favourite beaches on the Costa del Sol. La Cala de Mijas The beaches of La Cala de Mijas … Continue reading "Our Favourite Beaches Costa del Sol"

Schools on the Costa del Sol

April 2020

In Spain, compulsory schooling applies to children and teenagers aged between 6-16 years of age. However, most children start already during the year they turn 3 in “educacion infantil” (preschool). Many students also continue the last two voluntary years between the ages of 16-18, “Bachillerato” (high school / A-level). This is a short description about … Continue reading "Schools on the Costa del Sol"

The best cultural events on the Costa del Sol

March 2020

There are so many things to do on the Costa del Sol! We asked our staff, collaborators and local residents about their opinion. These are in their views the best cultural events on the Costa del Sol that you shouldn’t miss! FERIA One of my favourite times of the year would be celebrating the annual … Continue reading "The best cultural events on the Costa del Sol"

What to do on the Costa del Sol with kids

March 2020

If you have purchased a property or are thinking about purchasing a property in Mijas Costa, here’s a few ideas on what to do on the Costa del Sol with kids! Within easy reach of Calahonda, Riviera del Sol or La Cala de Mijas, you will find a variety of things such as water parks, … Continue reading "What to do on the Costa del Sol with kids"

Lotus Jardinana New Development Costa del Sol Spain

March 2020

Lotus Jardinana New Development Costa del Sol Spain! New luxury development of apartments in La Cala de Mijas Costa del Sol Spain. 600 metres form the beach and the beautiful village of La Cala. Are you thinking of buying a property on the Costa del Sol? Then please check out Start Groups Exclusive development Lotus … Continue reading "Lotus Jardinana New Development Costa del Sol Spain"

StartGroups favourite TAPAS bars! The best TAPAS on the Costa del Sol!

March 2020

Tapas, tapas, tapas!! The whole world is in love with the Spanish tapas! The best TAPAS on the Costa del Sol! These small dishes of delish. The presentation differs from the south to the north of the country and each region have specialities of their own. In the north they are known as “pinchos” (or … Continue reading "StartGroups favourite TAPAS bars! The best TAPAS on the Costa del Sol!"

Favourite Day trips on the Costa del Sol!

March 2020

Thinking about buying a holiday home on the Costa del Sol in the south of Spain and imagining yourself on the beach or golf course. But there are so many other things one can do. For example there are plenty of fantastic day trips to enjoy! So much culture and exiting events! Where else can … Continue reading "Favourite Day trips on the Costa del Sol!"

StartGroups favourite urbanisations and developments

March 2020

StartGroups favourite urbanisation’s and developments; Most of the properties on the Costa del Sol are within an urbanisation of some kind. Apartment buildings and townhouses in Spain are normally its own urbanisation, with its communal areas such as gardens and swimming pools. But there are also macro urbanisation’s known as EUC; “Entidad Urbanistica de Conservacion” … Continue reading "StartGroups favourite urbanisations and developments"

What should I think about for when I choose an Estate Agent in Spain?

March 2019

What should I think about for when I choose an Estate Agent in Spain? By Christofer Fogelberg, Partner Agent StartGroup and registered Spanish Estate Agent GIPE no 3726 StartGroup recently celebrated 15 years in business! When we founded the company in 2003 we had already worked for a few years in one of the largest … Continue reading "What should I think about for when I choose an Estate Agent in Spain?"

El Castillo de Fuengirola – Sohail Castle

June 2018

El Castillo de Fuengirola – Sohail Castle Continuing the cultural journey of what to do around Costa del Sol, today we look at the nearby Sohail Castle in Fuengirola.  El Castillo de Fuengirola – Sohail Castle was built in AD 956 by Abd-ar-Rahman III to strengthen the coastal defences. Excavated stone ruins on public display … Continue reading "El Castillo de Fuengirola – Sohail Castle"

TORREON DE LA CALA DE MIJAS – WATCHTOWER

June 2018

TORRE DE LA BATERIA O TORREON DE LA CALA DE MIJAS – WATCHTOWER Time for a bit of a history lesson! The “Torreon” or Watchtower in La Cala is a very prominent feature sitting in the main square and right on the beach front. For just 1 euro (correct at time of writing this) you … Continue reading "TORREON DE LA CALA DE MIJAS – WATCHTOWER"

Great bakery in La Cala de Mijas

June 2018

La Canasta in la Cala – A great bakery in La Cala de Mijas In the heart of La Cala de Mijas, and conveniently located next door to the children’s play park you can find La Canasta. Established in 1983, La Canasta is a local firm which has grown into a small chain of bakery … Continue reading "Great bakery in La Cala de Mijas"

La Cala de Mijas Street Market

May 2018

La Cala de Mijas  Street Market Held on the site formally known as “Recinto Ferial” (meaning fairground), La Cala Market (Marcadillo in Spanish) is held every Wednesday and Saturday from 9am to 2pm. There are approximately 115 stalls selling all manner of things from artesan craft products, fresh fruit and vegetables, potted plants, herbs and … Continue reading "La Cala de Mijas Street Market"

La Cala Golf Hotel & Spa

May 2018

La Cala Golf Hotel & Spa Just a 1 minute drive or short walk from Start Groups new development Fairways La Cala Golf you have the La Cala Golf Resort Hotel. This idyllic rural retreat is worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the coast, yet only 10 minutes from the sweeping Mediterranean beaches … Continue reading "La Cala Golf Hotel & Spa"

La Cala de Mijas info and property for sale

May 2018

LA CALA DE MIJAS Fairways la cala golf is a few minutes’ drive from the bustling village of La Cala de Mijas. Here is a rundown of what La Cala has to offer. La Cala de Mijas, or Mijas Bay in English, forms part of the Municipality of Mijas in the province of Malaga, Andalucia, … Continue reading "La Cala de Mijas info and property for sale"

Blog about La Cala Golf Resort

May 2018

Blog about La Cala Golf Resort, in which our new development for sale Fairways La Cala Golf sits in the heart of. La Cala Resort in Mijas, Andalucia, southern Spain is a residential and recreational estate located between Marbella and Fuengirola. La Cala Golf is officially recognised by the Royal Spanish Golf Federation as the … Continue reading "Blog about La Cala Golf Resort"

Foreign Demand Reaches Record Levels in Spain

October 2017

Spain is still one of the most popular destinations for expats – especially the British – who want to give up the daily grind and ‘same old’ of their own countries in favour of the sunnier climate here. Demand for Spanish property especially cheap property and penthouses for sale in Mijas Costa  has reached record … Continue reading "Foreign Demand Reaches Record Levels in Spain"

Top Real Estate Agent in Spain

October 2017

Originally from Gothenburg, Sweden, Christofer Fogelberg moved to the south of Spain back in 1999. After a few years spent soaking up the region and all it had to offer, he dove into the real estate industry in 2001 and launched his own imprint, Start Group, in 2003. Christofer’s professional niche is decidedly unique, and … Continue reading "Top Real Estate Agent in Spain"

Spanish Mortgages on the Rise

September 2017

We have great news for those looking for property in Spain. Not everybody has the funding to invest in Real Estate on the Costa del Sol outright, so it stands to reason that many will be looking for a mortgage in order to make their dream come true. For many, it makes more sense to … Continue reading "Spanish Mortgages on the Rise"

How Buyers can Benefit from Spain’s Rental Boom

September 2017

We are not suggesting that those looking to find a property for sale in Calahonda should consider renting instead; on the contrary, we know that when your heart is set on that luxury townhouse in Calahonda, you want to tell everyone you know that it’s yours! And so you should. The fact remains though, that … Continue reading "How Buyers can Benefit from Spain’s Rental Boom"

Three Considerations for Buying Property Abroad

August 2017

Looking for a new home can be both a daunting and exciting prospect, especially if you’re moving to a new country with cultural and language differences. For first time expats, there are considerations that may be harder to weigh up without a firm understanding of the latter aspects. Whether you’re looking for a houses For … Continue reading "Three Considerations for Buying Property Abroad"

What not to miss in captivating Cabopino

July 2017

There’s a certain ring to the name Cabopino; a ring that implies fun, indulgence and all things exotic. As it happens, this is exactly the kind of experience you can expect to have here at Cabopino beach and port, just a five-minute drive from Calahonda. Cabopino is a tranquil Marina found just to the west … Continue reading "What not to miss in captivating Cabopino"

Spanish Property Sales Continue to Rise in 2016

June 2017

The Ministry of Development recently released some new figures indicating that things are still looking up for Spanish property sales. Spain on the whole has seen an increase in sales over the period of a year, up until June of 2016. Throughout that time period, over 430,000 properties were sold, which is a 13% rise … Continue reading "Spanish Property Sales Continue to Rise in 2016"

How Golf benefits the Spanish Property Market

May 2017

The golf sector has been a major influence on the Spanish property market. This is especially so on the Costa del Sol where there are a large number of golf courses.  Golf brings many visitors to the region and finding the Sunshine Coast particularly appealing, a lot decide to stay here to indulge their hobby … Continue reading "How Golf benefits the Spanish Property Market"

Foreign Buyer Numbers Continue to Rocket on the Costa del Sol

April 2017

The Mediterranean coast continues to grow in popularity among foreigners, according to recent studies; approximately twenty percent of foreign tourists visiting this region of Spain have shown interest in purchasing property here, be it a second home or full-time residence. Despite potential challenges like Brexit, tourism and expatriation have continued to rise here on the … Continue reading "Foreign Buyer Numbers Continue to Rocket on the Costa del Sol"

3 Tips for a Smooth Property Sale

April 2017

As usually happens at the start of every year, the property market starts to gather momentum. Here on the Costa del Sol, it’s no different; in fact it is perhaps even busier than many other countries’ markets as wannabe expats start to ‘pull out the stops’ in a bid to get their dream lifestyle off … Continue reading "3 Tips for a Smooth Property Sale"

Spain’s popularity continues to increase

March 2017

Statistics from November 2016 are entirely positive, demonstrating that tourism in Spain is thriving regardless of any perceived challenges in the wake of the Brexit vote. In fact, it could be argued that Brexit has had no negative impact on tourism whatsoever, as the numbers of people visiting Spain from the UK continued to increase … Continue reading "Spain’s popularity continues to increase"

What to Look For in a Real Estate Agent

February 2017

Buying or selling a property can be one of the most stressful experiences you will face. There are pitfalls, ups and downs and many emotions are involved. Working with the right team of professionals can greatly reduce that stress and make the process a much more pleasant experience. In choosing wisely you can save your … Continue reading "What to Look For in a Real Estate Agent"

A Happy State of Affairs for Real Estate on the Costa del Sol

February 2016

It’s no secret that Spain has suffered miserably in the last decade at the hands of the global economic crisis. The real estate bubble on the Costa del Sol saw prices that rose 200% over an eleven-year period up to 2007. When the bubble finally burst in 2008, the government was unable to bail out … Continue reading "A Happy State of Affairs for Real Estate on the Costa del Sol"

Looking for a Property for Sale in Calahonda? Get your Euros in the Bancos!

November 2015

So, you’re looking for property for sale in Calahonda. And you’re preparing for an exciting new life in sunny Spain awash with warm weather and cool cocktails, then one of the many practical items on your Iberian to-do list (just after bikini shopping), may be making sure your local finance situation is in order. A … Continue reading "Looking for a Property for Sale in Calahonda? Get your Euros in the Bancos!"

Best Places to Live – Thinking about buying a property on the Costa del Sol

October 2015

We all know that the Costa del Sol is back in the property news in Spain for being one of the most sought after places to live at the moment.  If you’re thinking of looking for a property for sale in Calahonda and to live in Spain, then it is a good idea to check out the … Continue reading "Best Places to Live – Thinking about buying a property on the Costa del Sol"

Should you be buying property in Spain Now?

September 2015

There has been huge speculation on this subject, considering Spain has only recently come out of a very difficult and tumultuous eight year financial crisis.  But when you look closely at the information given by the experts, it’s not unwise to think that this year things are on the up again for property investors in … Continue reading "Should you be buying property in Spain Now?"

Costa del Sol Property, and the Good News You’ve Been Waiting for

July 2015

There is now good news surrounding development and housing sales on the Costa del Sol. New construction is being seen throughout the Costa del Sol. There are many cranes and rumbling sounds of development work to be heard once again on the coastlines in the South of Spain. New information on the home sales in … Continue reading "Costa del Sol Property, and the Good News You’ve Been Waiting for"

How the Marbella property market recovered – and why now is the time to invest

June 2015

As the Marbella property market continues its remarkable recovery, the best estate agents in the Costa Del Sol are gearing up for a busy summer. It’s no surprise. With the dark days of ‘la crisis’ now a distant memory, property sale prices are slowly but steadily creeping back up from their rock bottom lows of … Continue reading "How the Marbella property market recovered – and why now is the time to invest"

Purchasing a Second Home in Calahonda

March 2015

You have been thinking about it haven’t you?  The big move, and wondering what a second home on the Costa del Sol would be like?  Well let’s take a look at why so many people choose to come to this fabulous part of southern South to purchase a property. You know that the all year … Continue reading "Purchasing a Second Home in Calahonda"

Volunteering in the Costa Del Sol

February 2015

Volunteering in the Costa Del Sol As good as the dream of living in the Costa del Sol may look; a place like this needs people volunteering in the local area, just as any other does. So if you want to become a helping hand in the community, there are plenty of good causes you … Continue reading "Volunteering in the Costa Del Sol"

Winter is the Best Time to Buy

February 2015

Buying a property is a big step, not matter where. But if you’re already living in Costa del Sol or planning on heading over, then you should know that winter is the best time to buy a dream home in this area. Penthouse in Riviera del Sol – Start Group The real-estate segment is ready … Continue reading "Winter is the Best Time to Buy"

Finding a Family Home on the Costa Del Sol

February 2015

There are plenty of houses in Costa del Sol, but finding a real home for your family could end up being quite a challenge. If you’re planning to relocate along with your family in southern Spain, here are some of the things you should keep in mind so that you can really make it feel … Continue reading "Finding a Family Home on the Costa Del Sol"

Moving with your Pets to Spain

February 2015

Pets are family, so moving abroad shouldn’t make you consider giving up on your pets. It will take a lot of time to prepare them for the journey to your new home in Spain, but if you know all the steps to follow it might be easier than you would imagine. 1. Is your pet … Continue reading "Moving with your Pets to Spain"

We bought a bank property with Start Group!

February 2015

After being on summer holiday on the Costa del Sol for 3 consecutive years, we decided to go ahead with the purchase of own home in Spain. During the Autumn of 2014 we spent countless hours in front of the computer online, looking for that perfect vacation home. We decided on some criteria that were … Continue reading "We bought a bank property with Start Group!"

Brits lead the way in buying Malaga property

January 2015

Half of the new houses sold in Malaga province in 2013 were bought by foreigners. In total, there were 9,526 sales of new houses in the province throughout the year, of which 4,640 involved foreign buyers. According to the president of the Builders and Promoters Association in Malaga, Jose Prado, such high number of foreign … Continue reading "Brits lead the way in buying Malaga property"

Moving to Spain with Children

January 2015

If you’re thinking of moving with your children to a sunnier place like Costa del Sol in Spain, be well prepared. Planning isn’t easy, but it’s essential, especially when it comes to children, so keep in mind that there is quite a list of things you should consider before packing your bags and moving to Spain … Continue reading "Moving to Spain with Children"