Spain tops brit retirement wishlist
The poll from MGM Advantage identified some 3.2 million adults looking to leave the UK to retire in Europe. Out of those, Spain came top of the wishlist, garnering 26 per cent of the vote, enough to top the rankings of preferred destinations.
Spain has long been popular with Brits looking to pick up a holiday home in the sunshine and for many families the property also acts as the bolt hole to which they plan to retire. The gentle climate, delicious cuisine and stunning coastal scenery of Spain have proven a consistent draw to UK holidaymakers and those in their golden years.
Andalucia, in particular, attracts tourists and retirees in their droves. The Southern Spanish region, which is home to the perennially popular Costa del Sol, attracted some 7.9 million international visitors during 2013, up 4 per cent on the previous year, according to Anadalucia.com. The site reports that 26 per cent visited for the climate, 17 per cent for cultural reasons and 15 per cent for the beach.
Taylor Wimpey España, the Spanish arm of UK homebuilder Taylor Wimpey, is familiar with the British fondness for the Iberian country.
Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director for the firm, comments: "Our buyers are looking for high spec properties in Spain's most popular areas. The relaxed pace of life in Spain, together with the weather and the wonderful culture, combine to create the perfect destination."
La Floresta Sur in Elvira, Marbella, is the perfect example. The exclusive development offers two and three bedroom apartments as well as penthouses from just €178,000. The apartments benefit from both sea and mountain views in a UNESCO natural biosphere reserve and are surrounded by the region's lush and peaceful pine forest. They are located close to Elvira's beach, while the resort also offers two communal pools.
As the UK remains Spain's largest inbound tourism market, with UK visitors accounting for 27.6 per cent of total arrivals during May 2014 based on Ministry of Industry, Energy & Tourism data, demand for second homes there remains strong. Key-ready properties are extremely popular, such as the delightfully appointed apartments at Brisas de Alenda Golf in Elche, on the Costa Blanca.
The private complex comprises beautiful three bedroom townhouses that are perfectly located for those looking to hone their golfing skills during their holidays and on into their retirement. Priced from only €145,000 for the split level houses with private gardens, and just 15 minutes from the beach, Taylor Wimpey says it is already popular with British buyers.
"For many of our buyers, retirement to Spain is the ultimate goal when purchasing their property," says Pritchard. "They want to use it for holidays with family and friends while they are still working, then move into it permanently to enjoy their golden years."