The latest news from Marena Murray

Property viewing trips in Murcia and  Costa Blanca in October and November from just 95GBP

The Browns of sun, sea & selling Houses have able to add five more Properties Viewing Trips this autumn for just £95 pp.

Click here to read Property viewing trips in Murcia and  Costa Blanca in October and November from just 95GBP.

Individual Villa 190, La Manga Club

Quite simply incomparable to anything else on La Manga Club, this Individual Villa sits quietly on a...

 

£2,950,000

Click here to read Individual Villa 190, La Manga Club.

Individual Villa 188B, La Manga Club

Overlooking the 6th Green of the Championship South Course and just a minute's walk to the first...

 

£3,250,000

Click here to read Individual Villa 188B, La Manga Club.

Cartagena and Murcia - full day shore excursion for cruise guests

When your ship docks at Spain's Cartagena port, make the most of your time and discover both Cartagena and Murcia on a sightseeing shore excursion...

Click here to read Cartagena and Murcia - full day shore excursion for cruise guests.

Three tapas Cartagena walking tour

Immerse yourself in Cartagena’s millennia of history—and enjoy an introduction to the city’s gastronomic offerings, too—on this small-group walking tour. Begin your explorations from...

Click here to read Three tapas Cartagena walking tour.

Welcome to the Farmfoods European Senior Masters Championship

Between 2nd - 5th November 2023, golf fans are going to be treated to one of the most highly anticipated golf events of the year, hosted at the newly refurbished Grand Hyatt La Manga Golf and Spa, one of the world’s most stunning and prestigious golf courses in the world.

Click here to read Welcome to the Farmfoods European Senior Masters Championship.

The allure of owning property on a golf resort in Murcia

 

 

 

 

For foreign buyers, purchasing property in one of Murcia's luxury golf resorts like La Manga holds a plethora of enticing benefits that extend far beyond the allure of just owning a holiday home, according to local real estate experts.

 

1. A golfer's paradise

One of the primary attractions for foreign citizens in buying property on a golf resort in Murcia is the exceptional golfing opportunities it provides. The Region boasts an extensive selection of world-renowned golf courses, meticulously designed to challenge players of all levels. These impeccably maintained courses, set against the backdrop of Murcia's natural beauty, create a golfer's paradise that entices enthusiasts from around the world.

 

2. Luxurious lifestyle

Owning property on a golf resort in Murcia offers residents a luxurious lifestyle that caters to comfort and relaxation. Many golf resorts in the region boast exclusive amenities such as elegant clubhouses, spas, fine dining establishments, and private pools. These facilities create a haven where residents can unwind and socialise while relishing the warm Spanish climate and scenic vistas.

 

3. Strong investment potential

From an investment perspective, purchasing property on a golf resort in Murcia can be a savvy financial decision. The region's popularity as a tourist destination has led to a robust rental market. Foreign buyers can choose to lease out their properties during periods when they are not personally using them, generating a passive income stream. Additionally, over the years, property values in Murcia have shown a steady appreciation, making it an attractive option for long-term investors.

 

4. Diverse leisure activities

Beyond golfing, Murcia offers a diverse array of leisure activities for foreign residents to enjoy. Pristine beaches along the Costa Cálida provide ample opportunities for water sports and relaxation. The region's rich history and culture are evident in its numerous museums, historic sites, and traditional festivals, providing a deep and immersive experience for those eager to explore Spain's heritage.

 

5. Year-round climate

Murcia enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterised by mild winters in comparison with the UK, Germany and northern Europe, while the hot summers make it an ideal destination for year-round living or holiday retreats. This pleasant haven for weather ensures that residents can indulge in outdoor activities, including golfing, ampos, swimming, and hiking, throughout the year.

 

The benefits for foreign citizens of purchasing property on a golf resort in Murcia extend far beyond the immediate joys of owning a beautiful holiday home. From the inescapable pull of world-class golfing and luxurious lifestyle to strong investment potential and a welcoming community, Murcia provides an idyllic haven for those seeking to embrace the Spanish way of life.

 

 

If you are interested in La Manga Club property, please get in touch below.

 

MurciaToday*

 

Buyer affordability is improving

 

 

There is always a wonderful reason to move. Property is beautiful, from the details of a feature fireplace to a view of the sunset over your garden. The right home is an investment and a place to make memories and profound emotional connections. You may have your heart set on the perfect kitchen or an idyllic outdoor space, but the numbers need to be right.

Lower asking price
Asking prices have decreased in recent months, however this should not be viewed as a bad thing. The rapid acceleration in the value of property has been hasty, and world events have somewhat exaggerated things. The fact that the property market is readjusting to a more normal market is healthy, especially considering the steady gradual release of value. It is important to remember that borrowing less overall to buy your home is a good thing, as it reduces other associated costs.

Earnings
Many people are buying together, whether with a partner or a group of friends. This is a quick route to buying your home and gathering a deposit. Nobody can deny that the cost of living has increased, but the good news is that wages are rising. According to the Office for National Statistics, growth in regular pay (excluding bonuses) was 7.2% from February to April 2023.*

Equity
How long have you lived in your home? It’s more likely the longer that time is, the more equity you’ll have. That equity has accelerated rapidly in recent years. There is probably quite a big cushion to fall back on if prices fall a bit more. First-time buyers' homes are in good demand, meaning even if you bought within the last few years, you will have gained a lot of equity, giving you the chance to move into something bigger.

Communicate with your agent
There are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to property. All homes are unique, as are the different areas in your region. Your needs as a home mover are different from your neighbour's. And today, agents have the means to connect you with buyers and sellers like never before. State-of-the-art tech, in the form of databases and marketing tools, alongside good old-fashioned experience and local market knowledge make it all the more important to get in touch with a reputable estate agent. Ultimately, this means that your estate agent is pivotal in finding a way for you to get the keys to the home you want.

Find your dream property, get in touch to make it a reality

Office for National Statistics*
Moneyfacts*

Some questions you might not ask your agent when moving

 

 

You know the feeling. It happens during so many important events in life. You go on a viewing, it’s such an interesting and exciting process that you become a little flustered. You walk from room to room, loving what you see. You are enamoured and excited, so you forget to ask an important question. While you can always contact your agent at any time to gain more information, it's important to remember that your agent is an invaluable partner in your moving journey. So here are a few questions that you might not think to ask to add to your list.

If you are selling

• How long will it take to sell my home?
  Your agent is an expert in the market and area you want to buy or sell. So, while your agent can’t look into a crystal ball, they will be able to give you a good indication of how long it will take to sell your home. Agents are also dialled into local property trends. Your home is unique and may sell quickly.
  
  
• What are the terms of your contract?
  It’s important to communicate with your agent about all aspects of your move and never be afraid to ask too many questions. Different agents offer varying contracts, so it’s important to know the terms of yours. Talk to your agent about your individual requirements, and a good agent will meet your needs, and create a contract which will reflect them.
  
  
• How quickly will my home appear on the market?
  A good agent will value your home at the right price and take care of all marketing swiftly, from photographs to getting your property advertised. Estate agents today have a vast database of buyers ready to buy. Add to this the vast number of home movers that agents are in daily contact with, and chances are they may already have a buyer for your home in mind. And when it’s time to accept or reject an offer, your agent will keep you on the right path.

If you are buying

• What is this area like to live in?
  Whether you need to know the proximity to local transport links, schools, or places to carry out your hobbies, your agent will know. They will have sold properties and dealt with many clients in the area you want to move to or from. You will want to enjoy your new life as much as possible, and your agent will answer other key questions, such as where you can find the nearest good pub!
  
  
• Can you help me negotiate an offer?
  When it’s time to make an offer, a good agent is invaluable. Their vast market knowledge and experience when it comes to judging the market and the condition of the property in question are crucial. Ultimately, it’s your choice, but with the right guidance, you can pay the right price for the home you want.
  
  
• If I improve the property, how much value will it add?
  Whether you have already made some alterations or are thinking of buying a home with a view to updating it, your agent can tell you all you need to know. It could be that you are interested in making small improvements, like painting or decorating. Or you may decide on a grand design with the very latest in energy efficiency. The same goes if you add an outdoor space, a new kitchen, or convert the attic. Sometimes it’s better to get this information before you buy to see which property will give you the biggest returns.
  
  
• From your mortgage to your big move
  Modern estate agents can help with every aspect of your move, from getting the right mortgage to discovering a great buy-to-let investment. You will have many questions and maybe a few concerns. Moving can be stressful and full of legal pitfalls. You want every aspect of your new home to work for you, and a good agent can make that happen while supporting you, making for a happier home-moving experience.

 

Contact us today to see how we can begin your successful moving story

Are mortgage rates high or returning to normal? Here's what to do

 

 

There is no doubt that interest rates are a lot higher than they have been for some time. It can be a shock to the system when it’s time to renew your deal and suddenly you are paying significantly more. However, if we put the current rates into historical context, they still represent good value for money.

Mortgage interest rates
In recent years, interest rates have been exceptionally low. This has caused us to think that the current increases are higher than they really are. According to Moneyfacts, a standard variable rate mortgage in 2020 was 4.90%* and the average five-year fixed mortgage in September 2023 was 5.67%.** The lowest average mortgage interest rate in the past 25 years was in September 2021 at 3.59%, with the highest being 8.87% in September 1998.*** Current forecasts indicate that they will never fall to the ultra-low levels of the past and that they are rebalancing to historically normal levels.

The bank base rate
September 2023 saw a bank base rate of 5.25% which represents a significant decrease from rates of 17% in 1979, 13.88% in 1990 and 7.25% in 1997. Base rates have risen since February 2022 (0.50%.****) and may rise again, but only slightly, and this should not significantly impact mortgage interest rates. The good news is a falling inflation rate of 6.8% in September 2023 will help to lower interest rates.****

More support
Nowadays, there is more you can to than ever to combat rising mortgage rates. Mortgage support such as interest-only payments and longer terms help a lot of people adjust to more normal rates. In the past, there was little or no assistance, which led to a less stable market. More stability makes for a healthier, predictable housing market which allows you to move between homes without sudden changes. This, in turn, means you can get on with making your move today and feel more secure.

Mortgage options
There are also plenty of products and options to choose from such as porting. This means you can buy a new property with your existing mortgage. Hence, if you are paying a more favourable rate on a fixed term, you don’t have to put off moving. Mortgage providers are also offering longer terms; many mortgage providers offer a 35-year term, while a few offer 40-year terms, and some even more. For first-time buyers, government-backed schemes such as the Mortgage Guarantee Scheme are helping many homebuyers make their first move. If mortgage rates fall in the future, there is also the option of remortgaging.

Final thoughts
Interest rates are getting back to normal, and while they have some way to go, they are not as high as you may have first thought. Buying a home you can be happy in is something you can’t put a price on and if you are still worried about interest rates, then remember that there are so many more options and support available than in past years. This brings about a more stable market, which offers peace of mind and reduces the likelihood of unexpected changes. Using a good agent will ensure you pay the right price for your home. This, combined with your property's unique situation regarding equity and local market supply, among other factors, means a good chat with your agent has never been more important.

Contact us for a valuation, and we will discuss how to achieve all your property aspirations

Moneyfacts*
Rightmove**
Mortgageable***
Bank of England****