Many people that consider buying a home in Spain have a checklist of what they must have, what they would like if possible and things that are a ‘no no’. Often, as many estate agents will tell you, this criteria can change once they start viewing, as can the area they want to buy a property.
Some of the pre-determined criteria that some buyers may have include:
- Close to golf
- Overlooking a golf course
- Close to beach
- Front-line beach
- Must have sea views
- Must have mountain views
- Must have panoramic views
- Near schools
- Near shops and bars
- No immediate neighbours
- Within a gated community
- Must have 24 hour security
- In the country (campo)
- Dog / car friendly
An those are just some of the main types of criteria agents will encounter!
So choosing the area they want to live means careful consideration, and of course they want as many of your checklist to be included as possible. When they are viewing they will become aware of the items upon which they may be able to compromise.
Marbella versus Estepona and Benahavis
There are many popular areas across Spain in which to purchase a property, but for the purpose of this article we are heading to the Costa del Sol and in particular to what is now known as the Golden Triangle; Marbella, Estepona and Benahavis.
Most people are already familiar with Marbella as it has been the main resort of the western Costa del Sol for decades. Places like the Marbella Golden Mile were home to some of Hollywood’s top actors and actresses and it was a must visit holiday destination for royalty and VIPS from all over the world.
To this day it is still considered a luxury destination and is home to many top profile personalities. In fact the Michelle Obama visited a few years ago and stayed in a hotel in Benahavis.
Estepona
Estepona is also quite well known but it has always been the ‘poorer’ neighbour of Marbella, shielding from the limelight and glitz of Marbella. It has been a far more traditional area and very popular with Spanish holiday makers who visit in their droves from places like Madrid in the summer.
These days however, it is well and truly on the map as a place for property buyers. While Marbella is still sorting out many of the planning discrepancies for new build properties that were sanctioned unlawfully, Estepona has taken over in terms of new developments and improvements to the general infrastructure. In fact some of the most luxurious developments are now in Estepona.
Benahavis
This is really the ‘new kid on the block’ when it comes to property and property development. It has always been known for its beautiful white village located just 15 minutes from the coast, but over the last few years, it has seen a surge in demand, leading to new developments and luxury villas being built.
It is one of the riches municipalities in southern Spain and is home to one of the most prestigious and exclusive residential areas in the whole of Europe, La Zagaleta. This is more of a private country estate reserved for the super wealthy. It has high levels of security, two private golf courses, an equestrian centre and even a heli-pad.
Finding someone that can assist you with searching and viewing property in these areas can be difficult because at first glimpse there would seem to be lots of choice in terms of agents. But when it comes to finding a property, you probably want to work with an agent that knows these areas inside out and who has many years of experience in selling homes in these locations. That is why we are happy to recommend Paraiso Real Estate in Estepona.
