Time to invest? Five reasons to choose Spain

The UK has enjoyed one of Europe’s most impressive financial recoveries since the crash of 2008, leaving more and more Brits better off today than they have been for at least a decade.

The current strength of the pound is another boon for Brits, particularly those jetting off to the sunny climes of Spain this summer for a well-earned holiday. If you’re one of them, then prepare to fall in love all over again with Spain, only, this time, why not make good on that long-held dream to snap up a property in the sun.

Why? Because there is no better time than right now. And where? Well, that’s easy… Spain, of course…

1. Bargain properties

A recent report by the Daily Mail newspaper has declared that Spain’s housing crisis is officially over. Indeed, property prices along the Mediterranean coast rose by 0.2 per cent in March, the first increase since the start of 2008.

This means that, for a Brit stuffed with sterling, there are bargains to be had – average values have fallen by 48 per cent in the past seven years, and housebuilding has been brought under control, meaning property prices are going to be held steadier than they have been for a while.

2. Wonderful weather

Spain has been sweltering through an unseasonal heatwave, with temperatures peaking above 30c in mid-May, around 10 degrees above normal. This is both unusual and, well, not unusual. From April onwards, the Costa del Sol delivers one of the finest climates in the world, never stiflingly too hot and always gloriously sunny.

For holidaymakers, the weather presents the perfect chance to top up that tan. But for expats and homeowners, the climate is so much more than that: the warmth keeps you active, the sunshine makes you happy, the long evenings aid your social life, and the fresh Mediterranean air puts a spring in your step every single day.

3. Fantastic cuisine

The surge in popularity of Spanish cuisine can be seen in any city in the UK. Tapas bars are almost as common a sight on the UK high street as Italian restaurants, and while some offer a decent stab at traditional Spanish cuisine, few are a patch on even the most simple bodegas found all across the Costa del Sol.

Simple, cheap, tasty and balanced, Spanish cuisine is not only some of the healthiest in the world, but also some of the most revered. Dining out will not break the bank, and the quality is uniformly excellent across most parts of the region.

4. Great for families

Spain was recently ranked as one of the best places in the world to be a mum, and all ages are sure to find something to suit their tastes on the Costa del Sol. Teens have excellent schools and sports clubs, dads have many of the world’s best golf courses, and mums have wonderful shopping, restaurants and beaches to enjoy.

Spaniards live long, happy lives centred on family, with children and grandparents pitching in at all gatherings and social events. Nobody is pushed out to the fringes, and everybody is welcome.

5. Accessible

Málaga airport is the third-busiest in Spain and serves most corners of the UK. It’s less than a three-hour flight back home, meaning you can jet back and forth swiftly and cheaply as often as you like.

Most resorts on the Costa del Sol are within less than an hour’s drive of the airport, while getting around the region is extremely simple. This impressive infrastructure is imperative to would-be homebuyers, ensuring your property retains its appeal – and value – should you ever wish to sell up and move on.