Smart Investment… and British Sangfroid

With a date now set for Britain’s European Union referendum, the local focus has understandably been centred on Spain’s considerable expatriate community and the repercussions of a potential “Brexit”. For the moment – irrespective of the eventual outcome and the radically conflicting viewpoints – there is a sense of calm about the implications of a “No” vote, and this is reflected in the real estate industry’s analysis of the situation. According to the conclusions of a survey carried out by UK property organisation A Place in the Sun, uncertainty about the vote is not deterring people from pressing ahead with plans to buy an overseas property, either for investment purposes or as a new or second home. Speaking to the OPP Today news website, APITS managing director Andy Bridge said, “I think the reason the majority of people surveyed state they are unaware of the impact leaving the EU would have on overseas home ownership is because they don’t identify the question as an issue. While there could be different tax treatment of non-EU nationals owning property, it would be detail at this level rather than any sort of restriction. A degree of concern is understandable and of course all buyers should take advice prior to purchase.”

As British Ambassador to Spain Simon Manley, who visited Málaga in late-February, has noted, nearly 300,000 Britons are registered as residents in Spain (although the unofficial figure is considerably higher) and around 15 million Britons visit every year. “Whether you think the UK should remain in or leave the EU, the 23rd of June will be your chance to have your say,” said Manley. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the British people to decide. You might be asking yourself, why bother to vote? Although you may now live in Spain, most expats still have strong ties with the UK – financial, family, friends. You may also decide to return one day. So you very probably do have a stake in the outcome and how it may affect your life. I strongly encourage you to register to vote – just go online (www.gov.uk) and follow the simple process.” Manley was visiting Málaga to attend a business forum at the Andalucía Technology Park (PTA), where he stressed that British investment in Spain had a “very good future… We are the two economies that are growing most in Europe. We need to take advantage of this situation to cooperate among ourselves and boost this growth.”

Manley said Málaga was “in English people’s hearts”. Previously, the area was known for its sun, beach and football. “Now,” he added, “it is also known as a cultural city, as a ‘smart city’ and as an R&D technological centre.” Over the years many entrepreneurs setting up a business – or business connections – on the Costa del Sol have decided to stay, often attracted by the area’s incomparable appeal for raising a young family. And, of course, the sea plays a key role in these considerations. So this week our featured home for the businessperson planning to settle in Spain is conveniently close to Málaga and the PTA, in Benalmádena Costa (this beachfront duplex penthouse is priced at a superb €1,700,000). [caption id="attachment_4223" align="alignright" width="300"]

Ferretti 960[/caption] As the Dubai International Boat Show draws to a close tomorrow, it is also the ideal time to purchase and berth a new boat in Benalmádena Marina – and enjoy the allure of the Mediterranean Sea. For example, Ferretti’s largest planning pleasure boat, the 960. Exceptional Homes We appreciate your taking the time to read about this outstanding property, but perhaps it is not exactly right for you? If not, we invite you to have a look at our other special selections for: La Zagaleta, Luxury Villas, Golf Properties, Seafront Properties, Apartments and Special Offers. Click on the category of your choice and follow the link. Also please feel free to roam around our website: www.villamarbellanow.com

Smart Investment… and British Sangfroid

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