Three ways to gain in Spain 2016

All of the evidence – be it from economists, real estate experts or tourism websites – appears to suggest that 2016 could well be Spain’s year.

But while GDP increases, record overnight stays and various percentage-point increases in property transactions are all well and good, what does it all mean to the average sun-seeking, home-hunting Brit hoping to enjoy their own small slice of Spain’s good fortune?

Well, whether you are interested in a sunshine summer getaway, a savvy investment or a change of lifestyle, here are three ways to take advantage of Spain’s expected upturn in 2016…

1. Go home hunting

The coming few months are the ideal time to search for a property in Spain. Not only are agents’ offices less busy, but flights are cheaper, the weather is far nicer than back in the UK and there is little in the way of crowds.

The Costa del Sol has been enjoying steady price increases for at least 12 months now, but it is still the ideal time to snap up a property in the region because average prices remain some way below the peak of 2007. Recent data suggests anywhere between a 1.5 to 3% increase in values in the region this year alone, with more to follow in 2017, so if you fancy a short winter sun break with an exciting house-hunting trip thrown in, now is the time to go.

2. Enjoy a safe, adventurous holiday

Spain has long been the preferred destination for families, couples and youthful groups seeking affordable sunshine and a nice balance of fun and relaxation. Its dominance on the package holiday scene has been eroded somewhat in recent years as more “exotic” and affordable rivals began tempting Brits away.

But in 2016, many of those rivals are set to suffer badly from a mixture of fiscal turmoil, the threat of terrorism and uncomfortable proximity to war zones. Already, online booking agents have noted a sharp spike in the volume of enquiries for Spanish holidays, while other surveys have found that Spain offers unbeatable opportunity to enjoy adventure, culture and – of course – a fantastic climate.

3. Change your life

There are very few Brits who have never, at some point in their life, dreamed of “getting away from it all”. For the majority, such thoughts remain a pipe dream, but a growing minority actually make it happen – and only a handful ever regret their decision.

Moving to Spain is not something to be taken lightly, but then again, it is not something that should be filed away in your drawer marked “unfulfilled dreams”. Moving to Spain in 2016 has – bar the post-millennium and pre-2007 period when jobs were plentiful – never been easier, so if you have ever considered doing it, then why not now? It is easy to research where to go, how to live, jobs available, and what to expect… and the best part? Making the move will undoubtedly improve your life no end.