Do facilities and beautiful grounds matter more than the property?

“People buy in Spain mostly because of the weather”, says Craig Stocks of Eden Villas, “which is why the outdoor facilities within a complex or their own private grounds is so important.

Often a sale is influenced by an ‘outside element’ and this can be anything from a large patio for private dining to good communal play area for their children.

One cannot deny that the long summers and mild winters encourage an outdoor life style so therefore sometimes it is these factors rather than the size of a bedroom which makes the final decision in a purchase”.

Eden Villas specialises in the Costa Tropical a relatively unspoilt Mediterranean area adjoining the complete antithesis that is Marbella and the Costa del Sol! What it does offer buyers is exceptionally good value for money but more than that, it does not suffer from high rise, high density urbanisation, like its neighbour.

The Spanish developers and planners have seen that buyers are now more discerning and want something more like rural England but with better weather! Buyers are looking for quieter beaches and pretty villages and now many want to be able to follow hobbies so having skiing, golf or riding facilities nearby together with the usual water sports all have an influence. As do the grounds surrounding the new build.

“It is heartening to see the clever ideas that developers are coming up with now, to attract buyers”, adds Craig

One such development is Jardin Nazari, Velez de Benaudalla where the one, two and three bedroom apartments and duplexes are set in an exotic gated development. The Moorish influence to the layout of the grounds can be seen everywhere with beautiful Cyprus trees, established palms, floral beds of daisies and white lilies and manicured lawns with beautifully paved pathways leading to shady nooks, beautiful pagodas and water features. Expansive sunbathing areas on manicured lawns are surrounded by
sweet smelling aromatic herb gardens. There is a glamorous indoor pool plus a large outdoor pool together with gym. Access to skiing in the mountains or the cultural city of Granada, are both within 40 minutes drive.
Prices start from an amazing £73,525 (107,500 euros)

Albunol is an area which has a lot to offer. An historic small town with ubiquitous town square selling fresh produce in its daily market, this town is at the forefront of five new elite housing developments.

La Rabita is within 10 minutes drive. This pretty beach resort is perfect for those seeking sea, sun and sand. Sun Valley near Guadix is located outside a mountainous natural park so if offers a wide range of activities within this totally unspoilt area plus skiing and golf are within easy access. Prices start from £80,856 (120,000 euros) and residents enjoy the benefits of personal solarium and terrace (some also have a patio). There is a large communal swimming pool within the landscaped grounds which are exceptionally pretty in their layout. Attention to detail such as tastefully designed street lighting adds to the ambience of this exclusive gated development.

Concluded Craig, “My advice to buyers, particularly for those buying off plan, is to seriously take into account the exterior of the home, its grounds, views and facilities. Whilst the presentation of the property is very important, nevertheless, do find out exactly what is intended for the grounds. You will find that life in Spain is a life outdoors so make sure you find exactly what you are looking for.”

Eden Villas specialises in property within the province of Granada which includes hinterland and the coast along the Costa Tropical. For further information, visit edenvillas.co.uk.