CM: What does it say on your business card?
Marc: Sales and Marketing Manager at Taylor Wimpey España – Spain’s leading house builder that has been constructing homes on the Balearics, the Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol since 1958.
CM: What has been Taylor Wimpey España’s biggest success so far this year?
Marc: It has to be our team selling all 25 properties off plan at Cala Anguila, Porto Cristo, Mallorca, which is unheard of in today’s market – nobody has achieved this over the last year. We have also sold 60% off plan at Cala Magrana III, Porto Cristo, Mallorca as of the end of July – another excellent achievement for us in 2012.
CM: Have you got any new developments in the pipeline that we can look forward to?
Marc: Yes, regardless of what you might read about Spanish construction, we are looking to start approximately 75 new properties before year-end with more to come next year. Our construction rates this year will exceed levels we saw back in 2011!
CM: In spite of the negativity of late, why should property buyers still look to Spain?
Marc: Spain offers the best infrastructure of all possible destinations in Europe with very good flight connections, good healthcare and amazing roads and motorways. It’s a safe destination to come to and the weather is superb. At present, it is a good time to buy as long as the location of the property is good. Do not fall for cheap bank repossessed properties miles away from the coast.
CM: In light of the bailout rumours, is it still safe to buy in Spain?
Marc: Of course! Sales are up 11% YTD 29th of July and I am sure the Germans wouldn’t be re-entering the market if it was unsafe.
CM: Who is buying? Has there been a change in demographics?
Marc: The German market is certainly a lot stronger this year compared to the last 10 years specifically on Mallorca. Our strongest market is still the British with a market share of around 30% followed by the Germans, Belgians, Russians, Dutch and Scandinavians.
CM: Can you still buy frontline?
Marc: Re-sales yes, but usually they’re 20 years old and need plenty of work. Taylor Wimpey España will have a new frontline development coming up this autumn in a unique location on the Costa Blanca, which will provide a very rare chance to buy a property with direct access to the beach.
CM: With the fall in the euro, what advantage does this offer British buyers?
Marc: If you compare the exchange rate today to the beginning of last year, property is roughly 20% cheaper now than it was then for British customers. It makes sense to buy now particularly while property is only at 4% VAT.
For more information contact Taylor Wimpey España, 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com for more information.
