| There is no mistaking we are
truly blessed with a superb climate in southern Spain, especially now in autumn.
Whilst Northern Europe is braving itself for the long winter ahead, the malagueans
- that is to say residents of Malaga - are rejoicing that temperatures have dropped
below 38-40 degrees and are content to enjoy mild weather for most of the rest
of the year. Of course even here in Marbella, we sometimes experience diverse
conditions; the winter just gone was one of the coldest for 20 years, with snow,
normally unheard of, on the cap of Marbella's La Concha Mountain. When this moment
arrives, it's time to head up to the Sierra Nevada in Granada, just 2 hours drive
from Marbella, for a spot of skiing and snowboarding. October through to
December also happens to be one of the busiest in terms of golf tourism. With
average temperatures reaching the mid twenties, it's the perfect season to head
out onto the green. For those accompanying their partner on one such break, don't
just while away the days sitting by the pool, why not venture out and explore
some of the fabulous shops Marbella has to offer. Because of course it's only
fair that you should have your fun too! Marbella is home to most major
brands that you'll find in any European City -shopping here couldn't be more fun.
For designer divas with a penchant for luxury labels, Marbella is a must-see shopping
haven. Whether it's window-shopping or a burn-a-hole in your credit card day out,
Puerto Ban?s is the place to visit, home to exclusive designer boutiques such
as Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior and Versace, as well as some unique independents.
And when your Pradas are pinching, take a break to watch the world go by as you
sip a Cosmopolitan or Kir Royale at any one of the waterfront bars. Spain's
biggest and most prestigious department store, El Corte Inglés, is within
walking distance of Puerto Ban?s. Four floors of luxury shopping, including a
supermarket, gourmet delicatessen and home furnishings department. The famous
store, with campaigns fronted by film stars such as George Clooney and Gwyneth
Paltrow, caters for all styles and budgets. For a more authentic day out
shopping, there's nothing like a visit to the Old Town of Marbella; head to the
Orange Square and amongst the colourful orange trees and cafes, there are more
traditional shops selling Spanish artisan and leather goods. Wherever or whatever
you decide for your shopping experience, you'll be spoilt for choice! Many
visitors to Marbella choose to go shopping for a much larger purchase, a brand
new holiday home. Buying a property here can be the wisest and happiest investment
you will ever make. As the Economist reported 'house prices in the last 20 years
have risen faster in Spain than anywhere else in the world', and experts predict
that prices will continue to rise in the immediate future. Nevertheless as a buyer
you need also to take care, don't be pressurised into signing anything to secure
a property that you haven't thoroughly checked out first. Many foreign purchasers
seem to leave their common sense behind when they arrive. Whether you choose
to buy a new (off-plan property), re-sale or old-style finca or plot of land,
there are documents: contracts, deeds and tax implications, that all need to be
in place before you agree to any purchase. Or you could find yourself in trouble,
footing bills of the seller, or indeed having lost your money and your new dream
home. Be alert and responsible, once you have made your decision; it is
imperative to find a good Spanish lawyer. Ask around, speak to satisfied customers,
your agent, or the Irish consulate will maintain a list of reputable lawyers that
speak your language.
Make sure the urbanization you have opted for is
legal and registered, and building plots have been approved by your Ayuntamiento
(town hall), it is not uncommon to be half way through building a home, to have
the work stopped because the plot has not been properly registered by the seller. My
advice if you are thinking of purchasing in Spain, is to be totally prepared,
be wise and alert and speak to companies with a good solid background. Here at
Exclusive Marbella we have a team of experts on hand to guide you through every
step of a sale or purchase.
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