Guide to Property for Sale or Rent

www.buymyvilla.com has just been relaunched due to a rising demand from individuals wishing to save money on selling fees and wishing to retain control of their own property sale. For Sale By Owner ( FSBO ), as it’s commonly termed, is not a new concept. As the use of web sites has rapidly progressed over the last few years, there have been a number of web sites claiming to be the ‘next big property site for properties for sale by owner’. In reality, very few are professionally run, by Realtors (Or estate Agents in European parlance). Professional agents provide one part of the insight required to make a property web site work. Understanding of buyer’s needs on a web site is the other main requirement.

BuyMyVilla.com, fulfills both of those requirements. The site owners have been selling property since 1986 and have run successful property web sites for 10 years. The site has been designed with simplicity of use as a paramount feature. Property owners can upload their own property details and up to 12 pictures. Once a modest advertising payment of just €149 has been received, the site administrators will feature the owner’s property on the web site.

How does this differ from some other For Sale By Owner sites? Well, once you’ve paid the advert fee, the property can remain on the site for a year and there are no other costs to pay when you sell the property. The buyers contact the property owner direct and the buyer and seller deal directly with each other. No middlemen. No extra cost. Thousands saved.

Of course the site has many other features including useful advice and contacts, together with an easily searchable database. The most useful feature from a prospective buyer’s point of view is the site’s regular updates of properties are specifically what the buyer has registered their interest in. All the buyer has to do is register as a member, fill in their requirements and they will be updated regularly with only the properties that suit the saved search. If the requirements alter, they can log-in and make a new search that can be saved.

This feature sells more properties and saves the buyer’s time searching.

To advertise on BuyMyVilla.com, payment can be made in a number of easy ways including credit and debit cards through PayPal.

Visit BuyMy Villa.com to register for property updates, or if you wish to sell and save thousands.

Vila Sol Resort is conveniently located close to Vilamoura, with it’s exotic marina and variety of challenging local golf courses. Faro airport is about 20 minutes away by car, but once within Vila Sol Resort, the car is rarely of use. Walking is a pleasure, facilities are ample and the golf buggy is a more likely means of transport. Of course, apart from the excellent golf gourse, privately owned properties are the other main aspect here. There are still new properties available for sale, and if you’re interested, you could talk to Gatehouse International at their local Algarve office and they’ll look for a suitable new, resale, property for you.

There is a wide range of properties available on the Vila Sol Resort.There are 236 apartments in total in Vila Sol Village which is set around 3 communal swimming pools, a pool bar and vast green areas. It is located close to the entrance of the resort and just a few metres from the Spa. The new apartments in this area are almost all sold but there are several resales and also seasonal ownership schemes available here. The quarter share ownership options start from 120,000 euros and the 2 bedroom resale apartments from 290,000 euros.

There are more apartments available in the area next to the golf clubhouse and hotel with 2 new areas of development offering 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. Prices are from 247,000 euros for a one bedroom apartment and 325,000 euros for a 2 bedroom apartment.There are 2 different areas of the resort with townhouse style properties for sale on Vila Sol Resort. The first has 2 and 3 bedroom townhouses in a Mediterranean style, set around a communal pool area. The houses feature spacious terraces, fully fitted kitchens, air conditioning and underground parking. 2 bedroom houses are priced from 380,000 euros and 3 bedroom houses from 405,000 euros.
As an alternative, on Vila Sol resort, there are some luxury townhouses available set in a cluster of 36 houses with 3+1 bedrooms and high quality finishings. The houses feature fitted kitchens, spacious living areas, double glazing, air conditioning, underground parking and roof terraces. Prices from 650,000 euros.

 There is a selection of new and resale luxury villas available on Vila Sol Resort with their own gardens and pools enabling you to relax in privacy. Prices start from around 800,000 euros for a resale villa.
There are also a few frontline golf plots remaining where you can build a luxury property to your own specification. The plots range in size from 950m2 to 1700m2 with prices from 813,000 euros. Most of the plots available on Vila Sol Resort are situated alongside the magnificent 27-hole golf course, some also have views of the lakes. They all enjoy a unique environment of tranquility as the Vila Sol Resort architects have taken great care to combine the building designs with natural features. Property owners on Vila Sol Resort will have access to all the facilities within the resort including special rates at our own golf course.

To speak to someone at Gatehouse International in the Algarve:
Call a UK number: 01480 477773
Portuguese number: 00351 289 356 395
Algarve properties on the web.

Whether you are a professional landlord that owns several properties, or a newcomer to the ‘buy-to-let’ market, it is well worth investigating what makes a good letting agent, before you decide to use one.
Letting a property may seem like an easy way to make money, but being a landlord can be a complicated business. You might feel tempted to cut out the middleman and let the property out privately. Not having to pay letting agents’ fees will maximise profits, but unless you have a lot of experience in letting out properties, are willing to do some leg work, and are aware of the laws and regulations involved, it isn’t advisable to go it alone. Even if you are a landlord that owns a portfolio of properties, it’s often easier to use a professional letting agent
What to look out for, when looking for a letting agent.
A letting agent’s initial job is to find suitable tenants for a property, on behalf of its owner. The agents starts the process by generally providing a free rental valuation. In the case of Gatehouse Estates Property Management, this part of the process is free and includes advice on preparing the property in readiness for letting.

Once you have the advice, it’s up to you whether you accept the suggested rental value. Bear in mind that the letting valuer does this job daily and is probably in the best position to suggest the rent. However, it may be worth requesting that the agent tries your price. If they agree to try a higher rent, set yourself a short deadline before reverting to the agent’s advice otherwise you will likely lose more than you may have gained in the year by having an empty property for too long.

Once you have settled the rental figure, discuss how the agent will market your property. Most agents will place the property on their web site. They will probably take a picture for their availability list. They may even prepare some basic details.

What about the marketing? With web sites becoming the most effective marketing tool available today, it’s worth taking some time to investigate how good the agent’s site is and where else they will advertise your property on the internet.
The agent will usually show the property to prospective tenants and inform you of any interest shown or offers made on the property. They can act as a go-between during negotiations before a tenancy agreement is signed. The prospective tenant might offer a lower rent or ask for extra furniture to be provided.

Letting out. Once you have come to an agreement, the agent will provide a tenancy agreement, a legal contract, for both parties to sign. All of this can usually be done through the agent by phone or post, so there is no need to actually visit the property or meet the tenants.
 

What else can a letting agent provide? Many agents offer extra services, some of which might be included in their basic fees. Some agents offer a tenant vetting service, which could include taking up references or a credit check on prospective tenants, carried out in-house or by a sub-contracted company. Thorough tenant vetting is important - the last thing you want to worry about is whether the complete strangers you have rented to will be able to pay next month’s rent. Often, this service is either included in the basic letting fee or paid for by the prospective tenant. In the case of Gatehouse Estates Property management, the tenant vetting is included as part of the monthly fee.

Some agents also offer an inventory check service. This is a full list of the condition and contents of the property drawn up during an inspection at the beginning and end of the tenancy, in the presence of the tenant. This should help solve any disputes if you find the tenant has made material changes to your property such as simple things like carpet stains or worse, made holes in a door! Some agents will offer this service for free, others ask the tenant and landlord to share the cost. This service is also included at Gatehouse Estates Property Management when you use their normal letting service.

Most agents also offer to collect the rent and deposit on behalf of the landlord and arrange to renew a tenancy when the original period expires. It’s worth noting, however, that Landlords (or their letting agents) MUST now place deposits in a recognised deposit account that is part of a Tenancy Deposit Scheme, by law. You are no longer allowed to simply hold a deposit from a tenant without a legally recognised scheme to cover it.
They can also arrange for the property to be cleaned before the tenant moves in and at the end of the tenancy. Many offer a management service, which involves general maintenance and organising necessary repairs over the period of the tenancy. This is useful if you live away from the property or don’t have the time or inclination to deal with plumbers, electricians and other trades people. All of this also included in the standard service at Gatehouse Estates Property Management.

Gatehouse Estates Property Management rent properties in Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire and includes the towns of St Neots, Huntingdon, Godmanchester, St Ives, Bedford and Kempston. Additionally, they offer properties to rent in the countryside in between those towns.

To arrange for a representative of Gatehouse Estates Property Management to assess the rental value of your property, either fill in this form and mail it , or call the following numbers if your property is in the local area.
Bedford and Kempston properties to let: 01234 345353
To let out in St Neots, Eaton Ford & Socon, Eynesbury: 01480 471444
To let in Huntingdon, St Ives and Godmanchester areas: 01480 433933

Many of those who discover this up-and-coming coastal region go on to fall in love with it. The Silver Coast is rapidly becoming the most desirable part of Portugal for discerning property investors, and the price movements are beginning to reflect this growth in popularity. For those seeking property for sale in the Silver Coast (Costa Prata as it’s known), the advice would be to act sooner rather than later, before the prices soar to match the properties for sale in the Algarve.

The Silver Coast stretches from north of Lisbon up the west coast to Porto. The most popular areas of the Silver Coast are currently the areas from Lourinhã up to Peniche, on to São Martinho do Porto and Nazaré on the coast, and a little inland to the town of Caldas da Rainha and the medieval walled city of Óbidos.

Property on the Silver Coast is currently in hot demand, and provides a fashionable alternative for those seeking an option away from the hustle and bustle of the Algarve. Of course, there are differences between the two regions. In the Silver Coast not so much English is spoken and in some inland areas it will be almost non-existent. One should be prepared for the adventure that comes with choosing a region, like the Silver Coast, that is untarnished by tourism. In fact, the Silver Coast remains the real Portugal, where traditions and culture abound. The beaches are incredibly popular in July and August with Portuguese holiday makers, thus maintaining a distinct Portuguese feel to the area, even since its recent discovery by foreign tourists searching for their bargain holiday beach home.

There is also a marginal difference between the weather fronts of the Silver Coast and the Algarve. More marked though is the huge difference in weather fronts between anywhere in Portugal and the U.K! Central and Northern Portugal boast beautifully hot summers, blue skies and sunshine throughout the winter, and what maybe even be considered a bonus is that they don’t experience the fierce dry heat of the Algarve. However one looks at it, the weather will always be a joy compared to that of the U.K.

Another reason to choose the Silver Coast, is that property prices are still a lot less than most other destinations in Southern Europe. However, with the recent trend to buy in this region, investors are hoping that the Silver Coast will see the sort of price hikes that the early investors of the Algarve enjoyed. Most are also hoping that further development will be controlled as the local authorities are promising so that the peaceful charm of the area won’t be swamped. But can there be hope for a rise in prices and yet coasts and towns remain unspoilt? Some say yes as the Portuguese have watched and learned from the rate of progresss in neighbouring Spain.

If you have not yet discovered this delightful region of Portugal, put it on the top of your list of destinations before you consider investing anywhere else. You won’t be disappointed.

For examples of properties for sale on the Silver Coast, go here.

Beach house for sale in Sant Elm Mallorca - You can’t get closer to the sea.

Beach properties rarely come up for sale in Mallorca. This is a fantastic example of just how you can buy a villa in Mallorca and ‘have it all’. With its four terraces and views over Dragonera Island and with direct sea access this house offers incredible holiday feeling.

The main house is a reasonable size of about 150 sqm and was completely modernized a few years ago. There’s 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a very beautiful and bright living room with open fireplace and kitchen. It is possible to extend this area and build an apartment of about 30 sqm.

On the ground floor there’s a separate guest apartment of about 40 sqm with small kitchen and terrace, also with access to the beach. The house comes with garage and own boat garage.

All this for just €850,000. (about $1.293M, or £650,000). View this property here
Or many more properties for sale in Mallorca here.

Alpujarra Valley in Granada Province.

The Alpujarra mountain range, is about thirty miles from Granada city and 25 miles from the coast. It is as much part of Granada as it is of Almeria province. It is well known for the great views and the white towns; its mountain landscapes, the house balconies full of flowers; its friendly people and the atmosphere they create - and most importantly - the spectacular backdrop of the Sierra Nevada. All of these attributes led to it being designated a Global Reserve by UNESCO, as well as a national park and a nature reserve, especially for its native flowers and distinctive ecosystems.

The history of Alpujarra is just as important because it was the last refuge of the Arabs in Andalucia. It was here that Boabdil, the last Moorish king, lived for some months after the Christians captured Granada. And, it was to the Alpujarra that the Moors, who refused to convert to Christianity, fled and found refuge during almost a century before they were finally expelled.

The Alpujarra also still has many features of Berber culture, particularly in everyday houses and in their unique irrigation aqueducts that farmers are still using.

The Alpujarra valley gained modest notoriety in more recent times from people like Chris Stewart, who wrote ‘Driving over Lemons’, which captures the unique charm of the area. Many have followed his example and have sought to buy a small farm, or cortijo in the Alpujarra valley.

Properties there are still great value and the ellusive ‘real Spain’ can still be bought with a modest budget.
Properties in the Alpujarra.

Property for sale in the Granada region of Spain is fast becoming the new area to buy.

Granada - The Spanish Province of Granada is one of great importance in the cultural and religious history of Southern Spain, and many great authors have capitalised on it’s flavour in books that will overwhelmingly outdo this writers notes on the area.

With historical centres like the captivating Alhambra Palace and the highest mountain range on the Iberian Peninsular, how could one overlook Granada when planning a potential overseas property purchase. While new developments are available for you to buy off plan, there are plenty of good value resale properties for sale in the Granada area.

Granada too also has it’s share of pretty unspoilt coastal towns and villages, and the coastline from Castell de Ferro to Nerja is some of the most beautiful and dramatic in Andalusia. This coastline is sometimes known as the Costa Tropical, mostly on account of the ambient temperature there. It takes about an hour to travel from the beaches in Costa del sol to Granada city and just 30 more minutes North will take you straight to the Ski slopes!

Its easy to understand why so many people are searching for property for sale in Almeria, Granada and Andalusia.

 For properties for sale in the Granada region, visit this site.

Or for a selection of properties in the Alpujarra valley, go to this site.

There’s a whole range of new developments to choose from in the Algarve. One of the most requested types is beachfront, or sea view, property. Here is a small insight into just a fraction of the new developments available near to the sea in the Algarve. 

  CABANAS: An excellent rental investment within walking distance of the waterfront, the beach, and ferries. Currently under construction, this private development for sale in the Algarve, comprises; 1 and 2 bedroom apartments in a prime location just 100m from the waterfront and the fishing village of Cabanas. The apartments come with air conditioning, fully fitted kitchens, fitted wardrobes in the bedrooms, ample terrace areas, and underground parking. The complex is built around a tropical garden area which incorporates 2 private swimming pools. Some limited off plan properties are available.

 Prices begin at: €187,450  and more information can be see at: Cabanas new development

CARVOEIRO: This development consists of 80 x 2 bedroom townhouses in a great cliff top location close to the centre of Carvoeiro. The houses are sold fully furnished and with air conditioning, satellite T.V, and fitted kitchens, and many enjoy sea views. Facilities include tennis courts, communal swimming pool, gymnasium, health club, restaurant, and discounts on nearby golf courses. Quarter share options are available from just €49,500.

Prices begin at:  €237,500 and more information can be seen at: new town houses for sale

 LAGOS: This luxury 5 star spa and beach resort is situated between Lagos and Praia da Luz, overlooking the picturesque Porto de Mós beach. The development comprises 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and penthouses, spa bedroom suites, and 2 bedroom townhouses, the majority with sea views. All are surrounded by beautiful secluded landscaped gardens with a bar and restaurant. The leisure facilities include a 5 star health and beauty spa, hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam rooms, gymnasium, aerobics studio, 1 indoor and 4 outdoor swimming pools, and 2 tennis courts.

Prices begin at: €275,000  and more information can be seen at: Spa and Beach resort in Lagos

 LAGOS: This new development can be found just a few steps away from the town walls of Lagos and its historical centre, with breathtaking views of Lagos’s natural bay and sandy beaches. The development features a commercial zone, swimming pool, private parking and ample green spaces. The apartment comes with fully fitted kitchens, pre installation for air conditioning and with high quality wood finishings.

Prices begin at €140,500 and more information can be see at: Lagos, New development for sale in the Algarve 

 LAGOS: This private, gated, condominium consisting of only 15 apartments is in an amazing location, just 100 metres from the beach. The heart of the apartments - the kitchen and living room - was designed in an open plan style and exudes space and light. The contemporary fixtures and fittings are of a very high standard with feature doors and furnishings. The ‘pièce de résistance’ of these apartments is a most beautiful communal roof top terrace, complete with heated swimming pool. The views are simply stunning - the longest stretch of beach in the Algarve, Meia Praia, over to the Monchique Mountains, and along the coast to Alvor and Portimão. The apartments also feature: elevator, satellite T.V, air conditioning, luxury kitchen with appliances, double glazing, electric shutters, and pre-installation for central heating, central vacuum system, and surround sound system.

Prices begin at €400,000 and more information can be found at: luxury development on the Algarve.

 PRAIA DA LUZ: Close to the heart of Praia da Luz and less than 200 metres from the beach, this complex comprises luxury studio apartments and 1 & 2 bedroom apartments. All the apartments are fully equipped with under floor heating, satellite TV, and a central vacuum system. The underground parking comes with a large amount of storage space. Leisure facilities include gymnasium, aerobics studio, indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, café, bar, and restaurant. There is a poolside snack bar, a multi purpose sports area for tennis, basket ball and football, a playground, and outdoor swimming pools for both adult and children.

Prices begin at €240,000  and more information is avaliable at: Praia da Luz new property for sale. 

  BURGAU: This brand new development of apartments with high quality finishings is ideally situated in the small fishing village of Burgau, just minutes away from the small bay and cafés and restaurants. The apartments benefit from private parking, a communal swimming pool, and some have sea views. Additional features include air conditioning, double glazing, and pre-installation of central vacuum system and surround sound system.

Prices begin at €155,000  and more information is available at: Burgau new development by the sea.