Villa & Vida - Spring Issue

RUSTIC LIVING - THE COUNTRY FINCA SANTA PONSA - THE ULTIMATE IN SURBURBAN BLISS MARkET FOcUS - kEEP UP wITH THE TRENdS HARbOUR HIGHLIGHTS - SYdNEY HARbOUR CASARES - MOUNTAIN HAVEN & COASTAL LUxURY + ExcLUSIvE PROPERTy SHOwcASES

villa &vida

Issue 02 | spring 2012 | €4.50

real estate & luxury living

>> Andratx Finca Juvera: Living Area: 690 m2, Plot: 360.000 m2, 5 Bedrooms, Price: 9.700.000 € >> Puerto deAndratx: Living Area: 540 m2, Plot: 1510 m2, 3-4 Bedrooms, Price: 9.800.000 €

Ref: 70281

Ref: 70282

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editor‘s note

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contents

Positive outlook for the year aheadThe upbeat response to the launch of Villa & Vida at the end of last year was both reassuring and illuminating. On the one hand, it confi rmed our belief that Mallorca and the Costa del Sol needed an authorita-tive real estate guide for discerning and affl uent home-buyers and a lustrous show-case of the broad portfolio of properties available in Spain’s two premier expatriate residential areas.On the other, it showed that, in spite, of ongoing concern about Spain, Europe and indeed the wider world’s economic health, the general consensus is that the property industry will make steady progress this year, certainly at the high end of the mar-ket. In short, there are encouraging signs that the worst is behind us, at least as far as the real estate market is concerned, although such optimism is always tinged with a sense of caution. With those heartening thoughts in mind, this issue we once again highlight the fi ner aspects of property in Spain and around the world. Our featured area on Mallorca is Santa Ponça, an expansive suburban area that

appeals to a an extensive cross-section of expatriates and tourists; and on the Costa del Sol we visit Casares, part traditional mountain village, part luxury coastal living. In “Vantage Point”, we discover the charm of country fi ncas while further afi eld, in “A Look Overseas”, we check out the prop-erty markets in Monaco, Australia and the Maldives. Our harbour spotlight this issue is trained on Sydney, claimed by the locals to be “the best address in the world”; and for luxury living on the high seas we step aboard the Riva 115 Athena. Finally, “In the Know” offers advice from the experts including an overall market update, latest property news and trends, and information about Spanish wills and withholding tax.We hope you enjoy this second edition of Villa & Vida, oriented towards the busi-ness, administrative and general sales facets of property, as well as the sixth issue of Home Couture, published in an independent format on the reverse side and focused on stylish interior decoration and cutting-edge home design trends.

IN THE KNOW08 Market report… and property trends Truths and myths about Spanish wills Withholding tax for non-residents Island’s breathtaking beauty

AREA FOCUS16 Santa Ponça: the ultimate in suburban bliss Property Focus: panoramic elegance Casares: Mountain haven… and coastal luxury

VANTAGE POINT28 Property Focus: rustic elegance30 The charm of country fi ncas

A LOOK OVERSEAS34 The best of Monaco, Maldives and Australia

LIVING AT SEA40 Riva 115 Athena: Italian charm and exclusivity

44 Sydney Harbour: top waterfront address

AREA DIRECTORY48 Showcase of island properties

villa&vida

villa&vidaReal Estate and Luxury Living

PUBLISHING DIRECTORMark [email protected]

[email protected]

GROUP EDITORJames [email protected]

EDITORSarah [email protected]

ART & PRODUCTIONStefan Arens (cobra5 Design)[email protected]

ADVERTISING Ursula [email protected] Tel. 622 179 017

David [email protected]. 665 689 907

Deborah [email protected]. 699 569 934

Dion [email protected]. 650 747 399

ACCOUNTS MANAGER & OFFICE ADMINISTRATIONAnita [email protected]

CONTRIBUTORS & PHOTOGRAPHERSAlejandro Belapart, Maya Bordihn, Charlotte Hanson, Hermann Köppler, Perez-Marsa Legal Offi ce

COVER PHOTO & DETAILS

DEPÓSITO LEGALMA 2123-2010

CONTACT

AM Media SLUCalle Solo 43 Pueblo EspañolPalma 07014, MallorcaTel. 971 450 432

The views and opinions expressed by contribu-tors to Home Couture may not represent the views and opinions of the publishers. AM Media slu takes no responsibility for claims made in advertisements or advertorials in this magazine.No part of Home Couture may be reproduced or copied in any way without the prior written consent of AM Media slu.

Kensington Finest PropertiesRef KSP 00034Price € 1.690.000Tel. (+34) 971 700 764 www.kensington-international.com

Ref: KSP 00034www.kensington-international.com

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ProPerty trends

in the know in the know

the Beauty of MallorcaHermann Köppler, managing director of SGI-Mallorca in Santa Ponça, has the experience of more than 20 years of success in the real estate industry… “I’ve been travelling a lot, all over the world, and I also lived on the mainland of Spain for several years, but nothing compares to the breathtaking beauty of this island. After a long search I have finally found my cosy dream home here on the popular, magical south-west coast of Mallorca. “For those who prefer peace and quiet, the island offers beautiful fincas and wonderful luxury apartments hidden in the depths of the island. For every taste and budget, especially now with prices at an accessible level, Mallorca will meet your expectations.

“You also can enjoy the wonderful climate, either living or staying for holidays in your own prop-erty on one of the world’s most beautiful islands.”

withholding tax for a non-resident ProPerty owner’s sale In accordance with Spanish fiscal law, the individual or company who acquires the building, whether resident or non-resident, being the vendor a non-resident in Spain, is obliged to withhold and deposit with the Hacienda three per cent of the consideration agreed. For the seller this amount constitutes a payment on account for the tax on the income arising from the transfer. Therefore, the purchaser will give a copy of form 211, used to deposit the with-holding tax, to the non-resident seller, so that the seller can deduct this amount from the tax to be paid as a result of the tax return including the capital gain. Should the amount retained be greater than the tax liability, it is possible to obtain a refund for the difference.

refund of excess withholding tax

Should there be a capital loss, or if the amount withheld is greater than the whole payment due, you will have the right to have the excess amount refunded. The refund will be made in the form of a bank transfer to the account shown on the tax return. The holder of the account will be the non-resident taxpayer or their representative; in the event of the person being a representative, they must be expressly granted powers to receive the refund in the documentation showing their status as representatives. The “for non-residents” copy of form 211 used to pay the withholding tax should be attached to the tax return form 210.The tax agency will, where appropriate, make a provisional payment within the six months following the end of the established period for filing in the form 210. If the provisional payment is not made within this time period, the tax agency will voluntarily refund the excess owing over the self-assessed amount. Once six months have elapsed without payment having been ordered, for reasons not attributable to the taxpayer, the amount pending refund will accrue as late payment interest.

crown reclaiMed

The United States briefly took over top spot last year as the most popular over-seas destination for British investors, but Spain reclaimed the crown at the start of 2012. According to the web portal The-MoveChannel.com, enquiries for US real estate in December dropped considerably more than those for Spain, as Portugal and France also climbed above the US, and Barbados and Morocco entered the top 10 for the first time.Noted TheMoveChannel.com managing director Dan Johnson, “…the fluctuations in the top 10 show the changing buyer demands in an uncertain market. Spain has always been a traditional choice for lifestyle buyers, as evidenced by the constant level of interest in the country. In fact, for the majority of last year, Spain was the most sought-after property des-tination on TheMoveChannel.com, so its return to the top spot seems an appropri-ate end to the year.“Barbados and Morocco are equally at-tractive lifestyle choices that are free of Eurozone anxiety, but France and Portu-gal’s strong performance in December is a reassuring sign for more familiar prop-erty markets. As the New Year begins, we shall see if the popularity of these European countries will be strong enough to weather the economic climate in 2012.”

historic trendsWith the market for first-class historic real estate develop-ing on a positive trend upwards in recent years, Engel & Völkers has announced plans to consolidate its position in the market with a specially designated website and a range of additional marketing activities.In addition to palaces, manor houses and stately homes, country estates, castles and even old cloisters are in high demand, according to Engel & Völkers, with interest aimed primarily at properties in Germany, Italy, Belgium, Spain, France and Switzerland.“With historic properties, it is rarely the case that po-

tential clients are based exclusively in the local area,” notes Kai Enders, a member of the board of Engel & Völkers AG. “The international alignment of our network gives us access both to exclusive properties and interested buyers throughout the world. This is a particularly important aspect when it comes to such exceptional residences, as we can broker them through our global property shops in a way that spans across different markets.” Pictured: Dating from the 17th century, this country estate on Mallorca was renovated in the 1990s. It has a total interior area of 2,500 square metres, with 22 rooms offering all manner of contemporary home comforts.

in BriefBANK PORTFOLIOS: Announcing that banks would have one year to “rationalise” their “problem-atical” property assets, the new Spanish national government estimated the value of these as-sets to be €175,000 million.COSTA TOURISM: Figures re-leased during the Fitur tourism fair in Madrid in January showed an increase of 11.3 per cent in the number of overseas tourists visiting the Costa del Sol in 2012, with a 13.6 per cent boost in hotel stays.

sPanish hotsPot Spain remains the preferred foreign hotspot for British overseas buyers purchasing property, according to a poll conducted by A Place in the Sun at APITS’ Live exhibi-tions in London and Birmingham. Spain was the top destination followed by France, Portugal and Italy. The United States was the first non-European country at fifth, with Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, the Caribbean and Malta completing the top 10. Com-menting on the poll results, A Place in the Sun magazine editor Liz Rawlinson said, “UK buyers are sticking to tried and tested European countries – yet also willing to travel further to destinations such as Florida and the Caribbean to find the perfect holiday destination.”Meanwhile, Channel 4’s A Place in the Sun overseas property series is screening its first new programmes for four years, with Spain, Florida and the Caribbean included in the early schedule, according to the producers.

ultiMate luxury As property market insiders continue to look ahead with a sense of uncertainty about how the overall market will evolve in 2012, most experts believe that top-end real estate investments will remain a sound bet. Speaking to CNBC, property developer Nick Candy, whose Candy & Candy company is involved with the über-select One Hyde Park apartment block in London (one Ukrain-ian buyer has reportedly paid nearly £140 million for two apartments), said, “I think people are buying for the long term. I think they will get passed down the generations. Something like this won’t get built again for a long time.”Candy is convinced that long-term luxury projects such as One Hyde Park will survive these difficult times. “I 100 per cent believe that if you invest in the very best – not just in real estate but in the rarefied world of commodities – then I believe that you will do very, very well.“London is still a very strong market. In the

1970s and ‘80s we had the Middle Eastern money; in the late 1990s we had the Russian, Ukrainian and Kazakh money; and today we have the Indian and Chinese money. There is more international money coming in than ever before.”This international trend to invest heavily in property is being seen in major cities all over the world, with similar success at the top end of the market, according to Can-dy. “New York is still very strong. It’s very American-centric though – 80 per cent of people buying expensive apartments in New York will be home-grown Americans.“I think Dubai will have a bounce back partly because of the Middle East uprisings. The Gulf regions want to go and buy real estate in Dubai. Also when you have that big a cor-rection and big a fall, I believe that it will go up quite quickly as well.

“Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore… these are the areas of the world that I truly believe can sustain the high end product, and will have the demand for it.”

Article supplied by:Perez-Marsa Legal OfficeAvenida Jaime I, Nº 113Santa PonçaTel. 971 698 [email protected]

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The financial crisis gripping Europe is con-tinuing to cause concern. Closer to home, Moody’s decision to further downgrade Spain’s credit rating reflects the uncertainty as to how Mariano Rajoy’s new government will enforce the austerity measures required to restart the Spanish economy. The domestic market has continued to spiral, and property sales to residents are at an all-time low. Hardly surprising given the dramatic unemployment figures strangling the nation. But, more optimistically, overseas investment in Spanish property increased significantly last year. Sellers’ personal circumstances are driving down prices more effectively than any gov-ernment policy, and there is very little sci-ence involved in today’s market valuations. Price discrepancies are rife: neighbouring villas built to identical specifications can appear €500,000 apart on a local agent’s sales list. But Mallorcan homeowners can seek com-fort from reports that the Balearics are suffering less than the mainland. Geographi-cally limited supply and a mix of nationali-ties living on the islands have lessened the decline. Perhaps the Costa del Sol can learn from the Balearics’ refusal to build massive, high-density developments when the euros were rolling in. After all, prices that go up, must come down…

Price

“Location, location, location” is still justi-fied but even desirable areas are feeling the crunch. If in 2007 you couldn’t find a detached villa on a private plot for less than €1,000,000, now’s your chance.TINSA (Spanish valuers) recently announced the average Spanish home had lost one-quarter of its value since December 2007. On the Costa del Sol, this figure leaps to one-third, although the Balearics fare some-what better with a decline of only one-fifth of peak values. The figures are acerbated by developers and banks releasing stock onto the market at vastly reduced prices and, on the Costa del Sol at least, the extensive overbuilding and

overinflated values of the mid-2000s play an important role.

Buyers’ MarketNew markets are starting to emerge. In the UK, cash-strapped companies are being forced to let their more mature (and expen-sive) employees go. Many of those made redundant and nearing retirement are look-ing to invest their payouts. For the first time in many years, a dream home in the sun may finally be within their reach. With 80 per cent having closed down, you

are more likely to get a more personal and intelligent service from the estate agencies local to where you want to buy. Agents dedi-cating their business to a smaller geographic area know their properties inside and out, and are far better equipped to advise you on the best deals.Foreign investors from Scandinavia, Holland, Russia and the Arab nations are demonstrat-ing their confidence in Spanish bricks and mortar at current price levels by investing in Alicante, Málaga, Barcelona, Balearics and Tenerife, instead of risking the volatile money markets.

new investMentLarger scale Arab investors have chosen Mallorca and the Costa del Sol to showcase their wealth and creativity with two major projects. The super luxury Jumeirah Port Sóller Hotel and Spa opens this spring. It is the Dubai-based chain’s first leisure resort in Europe, and its suites will command astonishing prices of up to €3,375 per night. On the Costa del Sol, approval has been granted for a €400 million Qatari project to develop a new marina with 1,200 moor-ings (including some big enough to welcome cruise ships) plus luxury hotels, shops and restaurants. Sheikh Abdullah Ben Nasser Al-Thani, who also owns Málaga football club, envisages a project to rival Monaco that will welcome the elite to the luxury resort of Marbella.

BanksWhile there is no radical improvement in mortgage availability on the horizon, there is some small glimmer of hope. The Euro-pean Parliament has proposed safeguards to ensure lenders can only give credit to residential consumers who can really afford to pay back the debt. Potentially, this new framework may give banks the confidence to lend to the right people. Bank stock is still going to be an issue for those hoping to sell their own properties, particularly on the Balearic Islands where banks reportedly own 70 to 80 per cent of resales. By continuing to only finance pur-chases of their own stock, the banks could effectively flood the market with reposses-sions.

new legislationThe national cut in VAT from eight to four per cent on new properties has given devel-opers a head start in selling their stock. But the government’s decision is controversial, particularly in Andalucía where transfer tax on resales has increased to 10 per cent in some cases, creating a huge discrepancy between the two types of transaction. In addition, the new government’s national crackdown on taxation has far-reaching consequences for residents and foreign in-vestors. IBI (local rates) is to be increased in many towns throughout Spain this year and

the authorities are also said to be prioritis-ing collection of non-resident taxes. New legal procedures have been put in place to speed up evictions, a welcome provision for landlords who until recently battled reams of red tape trying to evict non-paying tenants. But, in return, landlords of holiday and long-term rental properties can expect harsher penalties for non-payment of taxes and, in the Balearics, stricter enforcement procedures on licensing.

tourisMRecent polls in the UK have confirmed Spain as the cheapest European holiday destina-tion (Post Office), with the Costa del Sol and Mallorca topping the favourite places to stay (HomeAway.es). Marbella’s tourist office is working to pro-mote the Costa del Sol as a luxury brand in its own right. The Costa del Sol Elite Collec-tion aims to encourage young and successful tourists from Russia, America and the Arab nations to spend their leisure time enjoying the glitz and glamour of Marbella. The tourism and property markets need to work hand in hand to encourage people back to Spain. The more we encourage visitors from overseas to holiday here, the more likely they are to invest in our properties. For cash buyers, there is no better time to invest than now.

in the know in the know

ProPerty Market uPdate Special report by Charlotte Hanson

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There are many formalities and documents that may be necessary in our personal lives, business activities and social evolution and status. Some of them we can avoid, circumvent or delegate: others we can just simply ignore or forget about. But un-less we are quite destitute (in which case read no further) the one that sooner or later but inevitably falls due is the last will and testament.Firstly I would like to lay to rest a frequently ex-pressed but totally false rumour that the Spanish government keeps all property not covered by a will. In the event of a person dying intestate, their immediate next of kin inherits without question, the Spanish authorities sharing out the estate in proper proportion. Should no next of kin claim the inheritance, there is a period of up to 30 years dur-ing which a family claimant may demonstrate their right to inherit – and inherit they will. There is clearly no problem with children or par-ents, nor with grand-children, but the matter can become increasingly complicated when the legal heirs are of more distant degrees of kinship – such as a third cousin in New Zealand! Notwithstand-ing, the authorities intervene in no way until the statutory period has elapsed without claim of any description from a member of the deceased’s extended family, and then the unclaimed property eventually reverts to the government. The whole of the foregoing entails all supporting documents being translated officially into Span-ish, notarised and sealed with an internationally recognised legalisation for documents outside of the claimant’s own country. The process is expen-sive. Hence, for assets of any description in this country, whether real estate, bank accounts, shares in companies or golf courses or similar property, I strongly recommend arranging to draw up a Span-ish will, even though one has already been issued in your own country.

thinking long terMIt is a good idea to take a long-term view, and to think carefully about more than one phase of inheritance and the implications of out-living one or more of your designated heirs; this can and does occur. Bear in mind that, when any individual has inherited property or assets, that person becomes the full, undisputed owner and may dispose of such property as he thinks fit. To condition your estate in any way after it has been bequeathed to the first designated heir/s is a matter to be discussed in detail with a specialist; essential therefore to discuss this with a solicitor or another properly qualified professional, conversant with Spanish inheritance laws and regulations. At times it is sufficient to declare that, in the event of an heir pre-deceasing the testator, his or her share is to be passed on automatically to their natural issue, thus ensuring a second phase of inheritance by means of the same will.In Spain, trust laws are not the same as in other countries and any ideas in this connection have to be thought out carefully, in order to provide for descendants as desired.

variaBle death dutiesThe percentage of death duties to be paid is quite impossible to determine in general terms, depend-ing as it does on the total value of the estate and the degree of kinship of the heir/s, whether a dwell-ing is involved, and if this is the principal or second residence, plus some other considerations. As a very rough example, immediate next of kin inheriting an estate of about €120,000 including a small holiday apartment, could pay approximately 13 per cent in death duties, plus the usual expenses of notary, registry, possibly a municipal “plus valia tax”, and similar costs.It has to be said that, as a matter of course, inherit-ance proceedings take many months to complete, both for Spanish and foreign citizens. A time frame of 18 months is not unusual, and is not a cause for concern.

From every point of view, it is an excellent idea to take steps to put into a formal, public document your well-considered instructions for the proper and efficient disposal of your estate, to the benefit of your family or friends and with a minimum of expense.

Bellapart solicitorsAvenida Jaime III, 25PalmaTel. 971 72 40 [email protected]

in the know

truths and Myths aBout sPanish wills

avoiding undue exPense

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By Alejandro Belapart

Having a Spanish will facilitates and speeds up the process of inheritance, because in its absence all relevant documents, communications and the existing foreign language will would have to be translated into Spanish by a sworn court translator and legalised as set forth in the previous paragraph. This makes an already lengthy pro-cess even longer and entails some not inconsiderable expense, even when the heir or heirs are immediate next of kin. In the event that such heirs are second or third degree of kinship, or friends with no family connection whatsoever to the testator, these complications and additional expenses become propor-tionally greater. Not to speak of the even greater complexity of a non-Span-ish person dying intestate!There are several valid types of private testaments in Spanish or another language, among them either the hand-written last wishes of the testator, dated and not witnessed; the same text, hand-written or otherwise, but duly dated and countersigned by two independent witnesses; and other minor variations. It should be borne in mind that any of these documents are susceptible to

being mislaid or lost for they are not actually registered nor inscribed in any official department. Therefore the best and most efficient idea, not to say the least expensive, is to formalise a last will in Spanish, exclusively referred to your property, goods and rights in this country, signing it in front of a local notary, who will in turn register the document in the central probate office, while permanently holding the actual signed and witnessed original in his archives. Even if your copy of this public docu-ment were to be lost, on presentation of a death certificate the probate office gives the details of the last will to any of the heirs, properly identified for the purpose, in order to commence the inheritance proceedings.It should be noted that a person’s last wishes may be modified as often as desired and for any reason, simply by making a new will in front of any Span-ish notary or consul. Such a document automatically supersedes any previous will in the probate office, so that one’s final decision on eventual disposition of property in this country is always right up to date and duly registered by the authorities.

children’s rightsA will must contain a comprehensive identification of the testator, with all personal circumstances and details of previous marriages, with or with-out issue. In Spain all one’s children

have an inalienable right to a certain percentage of the parent’s total estate; but descendants of foreign nationals inherit according to their own laws, and not by Spanish legisla-tion on inheritance. What this means is that Spaniards who have children they might wish to disinherit can only ever dispose of 66.6 per cent of their estate as they choose, for their natural is-sue must receive one-third of the estate by birth right. And, in some regions such as the Balearics, when a person has five or more children this percentage becomes just one-half instead of two-thirds. None of this is necessarily the case in other countries, and one’s own legislation always prevails for a foreign national in matters of inheritance.A Spanish will often formally nomi-nates either a citizen or resident of this country as the executor. At the time of actual inheritance formali-ties, because many years may have elapsed between the event and the date of the will, any another person may be substituted by powers of at-torney, but in the original document a suitable executor has to appear, who could well be your present fiscal representative or solicitor. The Spanish will does not enter into a listing of assets at a given time: they could vary enormously in any of several ways through-out a lifetime, and so the estate is declared to be the testator’s “rights and goods in Spain at the time of death”. Individual bequests such as special pieces of jewellery, a specific amount of money, items of value and the like should be set forth on a separate document and filed with the executor and/or notary.

Property law

Tax issues

Wills

Residence

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Tel.: +34 971 72 40 46

[email protected]

www.bellapartsolicitors.com

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area focus

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area focus

SANTA PONçA the ultiMate in “all-inclusive” suBurBan Bliss

Progress came to an abrupt halt on the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War and remained in hiatus during Spain’s Franco-era isolation, before

being resurrected in 1970 with an eruption of hotel and tourist apartment construction.

At first the focus was on tourism but it soon became apparent that the area’s allure was

more far-reaching and encompassing. Today it is, arguably, the area on Mallorca that ap-peals to the broadest cross-section of ex-patriate residents and mainland Spaniards seeking a holiday home in the sun – be it rental, rent to buy or outright purchase.

Santa Ponça comprises a gently sprawling suburbia that suits all tastes, nationalities

(predominantly British, Irish, German and Dutch), age groups and income brackets: families, couples, golfing groups, sun-seeking tourists, yachties… It is much more than a classic holiday resort.

santa Ponça’s naMe derives from the Roman villa called Sancta Pontia, where King Jaime I landed in September 1229 on

his quest to re-conquer the island, which had been in the hands of the Moors for more than 300 years. Mallorca became part of Jaime’s Kingdom of Aragon before being annexed to the Kingdom of Spain. His landing is marked with a cross at the entrance to the marina, and every September a colourful Christians versus the Moors battle re-enactment is held on the beach.

in the 16th century it was a key com-mercial port, a district in its own right, but more recently it became part of Calvià mu-nicipality – with more than 10,000 registered inhabitants, its most populous urban centre.

located just 18 kiloMetres from Palma city, modern-day Santa Ponça has a well-established infrastructure of hotels, vil-

las, apartments, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, high street boutiques and other retail outlets, international schools and nautical activities.

It is also home to two 18-hole golf courses, Santa Ponça I and II, and the nine-hole Santa Ponça III.

the first euroPean tour event held on the island, the Mallorca Open de

Many people visiting Santa Ponça would assume that the area’s urban development had begun in recent times – i.e. from the 1970s when Spain started to seriously promote its potential as a major tourist destination. In fact, construction of the urbanisation began back in 1928, with summer holiday homes built in a “garden city” style.

Photo: Dost & Co.

Photo: Mallorca Gold

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Baleares, was at Santa Ponça in 1988. José María Olazábal broke the course record with a third-round 64 but eventually lost out to Severiano Ballesteros. Seve won the title again in 1992, and Santa Ponça was also the venue in 1989 (won by Ove Sellberg), 1991 (Gavin Levinson) and 1993 (Jim Payne). Greg Turner was victorious when the event moved to Santa Ponça II in 1995 and, after a two-year break, the Tour returned to Mallorca in 1998, with the Turespaña Masters Open Baleares at Santa Ponça, which became the third career

title for the then 34-year-old Miguel Ángel Jiménez.

with such a large expatriate commu-nity, Santa Ponça offers an extensive and var-ied calendar of social events. One of the focal points is Santa Ponça Country Club, nest-ling in 22,000 square metres of landscaped gardens and offering top health and fitness amenities, tennis and padel tennis courts, the Tranquility Spa, the El Portón Restaurant and conference and special events facilities – in-cluding for charity galas.

Another popular leisure venue for residents and visitors alike is the Santa Ponça Yacht Club (Club Nautico), located in a family-friend-ly, natural environment with a sheltered cove and modern port facilities.

just along the coast is the pace-setting Port Adriano, one of the Mediterrane-an’s premier luxury leisure marinas, with 82 new berths for yachts and superyachts up to 80 metres long, and a 10,000 square metre technical area with a spectacular 250-tonne travel-lift and boatyards for large yachts.

celeBrated architect PhiliPPe starck was responsible for the design of the new commercial area and the decora-tion of the communal areas. Originally built in 1992, Port Adriano is due to fully re-open with Starck’s new design in spring 2012.

leading hotels in the area include the

five-star Port Adriano, specialising in wellness amenities; the four-star Golf Santa Ponça, in-corporating the Santa Ponça I clubhouse; the Iberostar Suites Jardín del Sol Hotel, appro-priately located on the “Costa de la Calma” with its “Thai Zen” spa concept using oriental techniques for body and mind relaxation; and the adult-only Sentido Punta del Mar.

restaurants well worth a visit include Carpaccio, with its wide-ranging menu and convivial ambience and, next door, the newly-opened Charlotte cafetería – cosy, friendly and kind to your wallet!

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area focusarea focus

Photo: Sunshine Golf Investments

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faces of real estate

head of sales: Ann M. Kihlbom head of lettings: Eva-Lena Nilsson

company profile: Small, enthusiastic and professional agency specialising mainly in south-west Mal-lorca.

typical property: €250.000 and upwards… All properties receive the same recognition – size or price doesn’t matter!

tip to seller: Make sure the property is well presented when being viewed. A lick of paint can do won-ders.

tip to buyer: Remember your gut feeling: it so often is proved correct. Also, let your agency help you with the property search so you can enjoy the island.

Market comment: Simply that it really is a buyer’s market right now. Strike first and you will get a good deal.

company profile: Recently established and innovative estate agent in the south-west of the island, formed by competent professionals with more then 15 years of experience in the real estate market in Spain and Mallorca, in particular. Based in the centre of Santa Ponça – one of the most sought after areas in Mallorca – their multilingual staff can look after customers in their mother tongue, thus ensuring all specific requirements and wishes have been heard properly and understood. Their excellent selection of properties covers almost any budget (apartments from €70.000 to manors valued at €10 million).

what is a tyPical ProPerty in santa Ponça?Over the last 10 years, Santa Ponça has be-come a popular tourism destination, and that has generated the interest of many foreign and local investors to acquire a property for various reasons: setting up a comfortable new home base in such an attractive holiday destination; establishing a business in the fast-growing market; or earning interest on the capital increase of the booming real es-tate market.

Situated only 14 kilometres away from the city of Palma, four kilometres from the exclu-sive yacht club of Port Adriano, nine kilome-tres from the prestigious marina of Puerto Portals, and 1.5 kilometres from three golf courses, with several international schools just a short drive away and a well-developed city infrastructure, Santa Ponça is extremely attractive for potential property buyer.

The extensive range of different types of properties, built in classical Mediterranean or advanced contemporary architectural style, can satisfy the wishes of the most discerning customer.

It is also worth mentioning the new residen-tial area of Nova Santa Ponça, developed with elegant modern villas and gated communities with comfortable well-planned apartments and townhouses. This has extended both the city limits of Santa Ponça and the choice of properties.

tiPs for the seller… The market situation at the moment is not the same as it was a few years ago. Today, the buyer has a considerable choice of prop-erties in any price range. With this in mind, it is important for an owner to realise that each viewing must be considered as a last oppor-tunity to sell. This means the property has

to be properly prepared and presented in a friendly manner. The announced price should match the quality and market trend. Over-priced properties lead to stagnation and only make it more complicated to find a buyer. Make sure that your price is weighted and set realistically. Ask for advice from several pro-fessional real estate agencies.

tiPs for the Buyer…The market situation is favourable for buyers as there is quite a varied choice of properties. In many cases there is a certain flexibility in negotiations with sellers. The truth is that, in comparison with the Spanish mainland, where the real estate market has showed re-markable decline, Mallorca has managed to keep price stability, which surely is beneficial for buyers.

To own a property in Mallorca and be able to enjoy its splendid nature and warm climate means not only a good investment for the future but also active enjoyment of its excep-tional lifestyle.

general Market coMMent…The property market on Mallorca has proved and keeps proving its steadiness, assuring buyers a certain positive confidence. Cur-rently, the economic situation in the world makes the idea of investing in real estate on Mallorca more convincing and secure. Most of our buyers who decided to acquire a prop-erty on Mallorca remain satisfied with their decision. Permanent demand for properties and interest from buyers confirms Mallorca’s privileged and unique status.

Interview with Marina KhitarovaMALLORCA PRIME HOMES, S.L.

Mallorca PriMe hoMes

BeauMount ProPerties

SALES - PROPERTY SEARCH - RENTALS

V0296 CALVIA Price: 1.700.000 € Beautiful rustic villa of 330m2 in an excellent location, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 living-areas, guest apartment, plot 3000m2, wonderful pool-area.

V0358 NOVA SANTA PONSA Price: 1.650.000 €Immaculate 3-4 bedroom 252m2 designer villa on a tranquil plot of 1011m2 with lovely garden, pool, Jacuzzi and sunny garden porch.

V0390 SON VIDA P.O.R This magnificent contemporary mega-villa of 722m2 must have the best 360º views of sea and mountains in the SW! Extraordinary quality and privacy, 7 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, plot 3650m2.

V0365 NOVA SANTA PONSA Price: 2.300.000 € This impressive villa of 310m2, plot 934m2, has 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms with main living upstairs, ample roof-terrace, lovely sea-views , very private.

V0348 NOVA SANTA PONSA Price: 1.650.000 € Charming, bright villa of 298m2 built to a very high standard, 1147m2 sunny plot, top terrace enjoys some sea views, 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms.

V0392 BENDINAT Price: 5.200.000 € Outstanding luxury home of 708m2 in prime position, unbeatable sea and golf views, 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, amazing kitchen, spa, guest house.

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ProPerty showcase

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ProPerty showcase

SANTA PONçA

elegant PerfectionThis new villa located on the hillside of Nova Santa Ponça is pure luxury, with spectacular views over the Mediterranean.

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ProPerty showcase

Built in a contemporary style, this el-egant property is situated in a cul-de-sac in a highly sought-after area. The

1,181 square metre plot features a landscaped Mediterranean-style garden with a swimming pool, several open and covered terraces, and a garage for two cars. The living space occupies 430 square metres distributed on two floors. The upper level consists of a spacious, hi-tech open kitchen adjoining a dining area in front of a panoram-ic window facing the greenery and the bay of

Santa Ponça, a cosy hall with a fireplace for relaxing at the end of the day and a TV room. The ground floor comprises four bedrooms, a dressing room by the master bedroom, three bathrooms (two of which are en suite), guest toilet, utility and storage rooms, and fitness room with sauna and shower. High-quality materials and fittings were used in building this outstanding property, includ-ing travertine for the villa’s flooring and bath-room finishings. Wooden beam ceilings and a modern glass façade add a lovely touch to

the design. Other features include floor heat-ing (oil), an air-conditioning system (hot/cold) and a remotely controlled gate and garden ir-rigation system.

Ref. MPH-0196 Price: €2,295,000

mallorcaprimehomes.com

Marina Khitarova

Avda. Rey Jaime I, 116, local 3 . 07180 Santa Ponsa . Fon (+34) 971 69 21 21 . Mob (+34) 678 436 222 . [email protected]

You are very welcome to my new office in Santa Ponsa.

Ich freue mich Sie in meinem neuen Büro in Santa Ponsa begrüßen zu dürfen.

Son bienvenidos a mi nueva oficina en Santa Ponsa.

Let us introduce you to your new dream home.

More information:Mallorca Prime Homes S.L. Tel. (+34) 971 692 121 [email protected] mallorcaprimehomes.com

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area focus

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area focus

CASARES Mountain haven… and coastal luxury

Apparently it worked because, in gratitude, Roman emperors allowed Casares to mint its own coins. These days, sulphuric waters still gush out

of the la Hedionda spring but Casares no longer needs to mint its own currency: the traditional white village now earns much of its revenue from modern-day tourists pur-chasing or renting holiday homes in the mu-nicipality, which stretches all the way down to the coast, or staying in hotels such as the five-star Finca Cortesín – home of the annual Volvo World Match Play Championship.

The present town centre grew around a 12th century castle founded by the occupying Moors. In the 14th century, Peter I of Castile and Muhammed V signed the Pact of Casares, enabling the Moorish king to recuperate his

throne and leaving Casares as part of the Nasrid Dynasty.

In 1485, the town surrendered to Catholic forces after the fall of Ronda and was handed over to the Duke of Cádiz. Three centuries lat-er it separated from Manilva and was granted the title of villa. During a subsequent period, Casares and Cádiz were the only towns the Napoleonic troops were not able to conquer.

More recently, Casares village was the birth-place (1885) of the “father of Andalucian nationalism”, Blas Infante Perez de Vargas, a libertarian socialist politician, regional au-tonomist, labour lawyer, writer, historian and musicologist who was summarily executed by General Franco’s forces when they captured Sevilla at the beginning of the Spanish Civil War in 1936.

Since 1978 the village’s historical and artistic heritage has been officially protected.

The municipality of Casares shares a borders with Estepona (to the east), Manilva (south) and Gaucín (north), at the western end of Málaga province.

With its cliff-hugging Moorish buildings, white homes and narrow, cobble-stoned streets, Casares is the stereotype Andalucian moun-tain village – a popular tourist destination thanks to its spectacular setting and its wide and varied range of restaurants serving local specialities such as mountain goat.

In recent years, however, it has become popu-lar for reasons other than its quaint embodi-ment of the “typical Andalucía” cliché. Like other flourishing parts of the Costa del Sol hinterland, it is home to numerous “boutique”

hotels hidden away in the verdant mountain folds – rustic havens such as the Hermitage Casares that offer a touch of luxury away from the madding crowd.

Its transformation is even more evident on the road down to the coast, meandering past major new residential developments includ-

ing the municipality’s showpiece Finca Corte-sín. A vast complex comprising a sumptuous five-star hotel and spa, and select villas and apartments, Finca Cortesín shines under the international spotlight in May as the venue for the World Match Play Championship, which dates to 1964 when Arnold Palmer won the inaugural event at Wentworth.

The then reigning US Masters champion won £5,000 for his efforts. Last May, Ian Poulter received a cheque for over €500,000 when he defeated English compatriot and world number one golfer Luke Donald in the final at Finca Cortesín. Such are the changing times… in the golf world and at Casares.

Two thousand years ago the people of Casares welcomed a particularly eminent visitor to their mountain village. Julius Caesar was in town, partaking of sulphuric waters from the local spring to cure his liver complaint.

Imag

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.

Imagen©Turismo Andaluz S.A.

Photo: Gary Edwards

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vantage Point

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vantage Point

country fincas

As they were built for, or indeed in some cases by, farmers they were devoid of the many mod-cons that we have become accustomed too

over the last few decades. As these proper-ties can date back to 300 years, some fincas still have very archaic features, such as out-side bathrooms or just one floor.

However, the finca has gained increasing popularity over the last few years and, when

considering the plus points, it is easy to see why. Firstly, as with many old country-style homes, there are excellent living spaces.

As fincas were designed to be family homes, these living spaces are designed to be com-munal, social areas. The kitchens are usually the showpiece of every finca, often huge in size, with high ceilings and plenty of light.

Another popular attribute of the country finca are the antiquated aesthetics. The ex-

teriors are often comprised of old stone and wood finishes, which is certainly inviting from a design perspective.

On Mallorca there have been some fantastic combinations of historic exteriors combined with cutting edge, modern design inside. This almost contradictory process has certainly been popular with the finca-buying masses and, as a result, this modern twist on the classical buildings has become the flagship

of Mallorca’s most desirable properties.

Many hotels, including the Palacio Sa Galesa and Santa Clara in Palma, have opted for this combination of classical and modern design flairs. The juxtaposition of rugged Mallor-can sandstone with the smooth, streamlined gloss of marble (used for flooring in the ma-jority of Mallorcan fincas) creates an emi-nently pleasing ambience – enabling owners

to enjoy the natural beauty of nature with the creature comforts of modern design.

Above all else, however, the country finca is famous for its vast expanse of land. Some fin-cas are available with hundreds of thousands of square metres of Mallorcan farmland, spanning for kilometres into the distance. Whilst most of this land may never be fully utilized –or even explored – the fact that you

now own your own manor is certainly ap-pealing to those in the market for this kind of property.

This huge open space also makes for some stunning vistas, completely embodying the sense of freedom and nature that all of us long for in a country home.

The term “finca” has certainly had something of a renaissance over the last 20 years. Ostensibly, a country finca used to refer to a country cottage, or barn, surrounded by a large expanse of agricultural land. These original fincas were not quite as luxurious as we know them to be today.




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finca showcase

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finca showcase

ESTABLIMENTS rustic luxury

Approached along a private gated driveway with walled boundaries and substantial lawn areas, the property offers expansive views over large fields – in a very private setting. It comprises a massive courtyard with large timber doors and covered terraces and a 940

square metre living area distributed over three floors. The ground floor features a grand entrance area, massive reception room with central feature fireplace, adjoining library-sitting room, dining room, and kitchen with break-

fast area. On the first floor there are three bedroom suites with en suite bathrooms and dressing areas; and a principal master bed-room suite with the main bedroom with a sit-ting room area, two luxurious bathrooms and two substantial dressing rooms. The lower

This stunning country estate, built in 2011, is located in the charming village of Establiments, conveniently located close to Palma city.

villa y vida 33villa y vida 32

floor includes a spa area with indoor swim-ming pool and swim machine, Turkish steam room, sauna, two cloak-rooms with showers, utility room, climate-controlled bodega, ma-chine rooms and integral garage. The prop-erty has been constructed to an exceptional

standard, with natural stone elevations, ter-racotta floors, exposed timber beams, under-floor heating, air-conditioning, alarm system, fitted wardrobes, timber double-glazed doors and windows, wrought iron patio doors and shutters. It has its own water supply and wa-

ter deposits, and permission for additional staff accommodation and garaging and an external pool. The plot extends over 100,000 square metres.

finca showcase

More information:Mallorca Gold Tel. 971 790 701 | mallorcagold.com


a look overseas a look overseas

AUSTRALIA

down under on toP

For many, the traditional image of a sun-drenched lifestyle of barbecues, backyard cricket and languid days on the beach trumps concerns about the

tyranny of distance – both the actual travel time and the invariably lengthy separation from Europe-based family members.

However, as the BBC’s popular TV show Down Under Wanted shows, often quite poignantly, actually moving to the other side of the world is a huge, and enormously difficult, decision – and for many an emotional journey into the unknown.

It is all very well to go with the heart but the head, and the wallet, must also be considered for any move to be a long-term success. In

the first place, if they are selling their UK property to buy a new one in Australia, will the emigrating family be able to find a suita-ble home for the right price? Will they be able to find work? Will they be able to cope with the mortgage payments and other budget-ary commitments? Will they be comfortable settling in to the new lifestyle? And, perhaps most important, will they be able to handle leaving their family and friends behind?

Some return sooner than they expected, a little sheepishly as they realise their enthusi-asm blurred the reality check, but many stay indefinitely – especially those whose children are loathe to give up their new easy-going, outdoor lifestyles.

For older couples, of course, the decision is perhaps less traumatic. Retirement in a year-round sunny clime sounds considerably more appealing than months at end curled up in front of a heater.

Not that Australia’s reputation as a sun-blessed paradise is entirely apt. Summers, particularly in the north, can be brutal and the coastline is frequently lashed by violent tropical storms and inland areas razed by bushfires. Winters in the south, on the other hand, can be every bit as dull, gloomy and grey as those in northern Europe.

Culturally, most Australians might still prefer playing sport to donning ballet shoes (and that’s just the women!) but the “cringe” is

long gone. The two main cities, Sydney and Melbourne, are chic, contemporary metropo-lises, with exceptional restaurants and cut-ting-edge theatre agendas.

As the surveys suggest, while some people might have an erroneously romantic notion of what awaits them, most expats who take the plunge end up satisfied with their move.

here are soMe key Points to in-clude on any checklist:

• Buyers from abroad are required to obtain consent from the Foreign Investment Review Board (firb.gov.au).

• Foreign non-residents are permitted to buy new properties only subject to approval. A temporary resident’s visa of at least 12 months is required to buy an established home.

• Check if you are eligible for an Australian retirement visa (visabureau.com/australia), which lasts for four years. You must be 55-plus and have private health insurance.

• New apartments include 10 per cent GST (equivalent to VAT) on top of the sale price. There is no GST on older properties. Stamp duty also applies for buyers – add five per cent of the purchase price.

Most surveys gauging Britons’ preferred destination if they could move abroad tend to have Australia at the top of the list – or at least hovering around the top. New research by Moneycorp last year, for example, found that 27 per cent of those surveyed would opt for Australia if they could make a new start overseas, followed by the United States, Spain, France, Canada and New Zealand.

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a look overseas

villa y vida 36

a look overseas

MONACO

tax haven even More attractive

Now a new law makes it even more attractive for investment: registra-tion tax on sales is cut to 4.5 per cent and investors can rent out

property without having to pay tax on rental income.

Monaco’s appeal to investors is further enhanced by the fact that in neighbour-ing France, even though the overall rate of wealth tax has been reduced by 50 per cent on a €10 million property, fiscal rules relating to the ownership of property via companies and trusts has been become more restrictive since January. Buyers in France have also been deterred because the sliding scale for French capital gains tax now takes twice as long to reach zero for all new purchases.

Financial experts expect the new statute,

“Law 1381”, which cuts registration tax from 7.5 to 4.5 per cent, to lead to a substantial reduction for people purchasing a property in their own name or through a Monaco SCI, with a slight increase in the tax on purchases through an offshore entity.

“Monaco has always been a popular desti-nation for the wealthy to reside or to own property in owing to the advantageous fis-cal status,” John Busby, director of French Private Finance, told The Daily Telegraph. “We are now seeing an increase of activity and enquiries after an exceptionally quiet last quarter of 2011 for Monaco, though the Riviera is still performing well as expats can easily country-hop to neighbouring Monaco, Italy and Switzerland to maintain their non-resident status in those countries.”

The top rate of wealth tax in France has been cut to 0.5 per cent from 1.8 per cent but those hoping to take advantage of the new scale are warned to exercise caution when it comes to inheritance tax.

“Don’t be fooled. France has strict inheritance laws, including the clause that says a part of a person’s estate is left to his or her chil-dren,” said Richard Way, editor at the Over-seas Guides Company. “This applies – and can create complications – even if a couple is not married, or where there are children from previous marriages. We always advise buyers to get professional advice before completing a property purchase to ensure contracts are structured according to the buyers’ wishes from the outset.”

With capital gains outlay also coming into the

equation professional advice is advisable to check if exemptions can be applied in a spe-cific case.

According to Matthew Cameron, a partner at the law firm Ashton KCJ, which specialises in French law, “Capital gains tax rates and allow-ances changed substantially in 2011, and this may well lead to larger capital gains tax bills in France… If the seller is UK tax-resident, there is also a subsequent liability to declare the tax in the UK… Again, even if there is an exemption to capital gains tax in Monaco there may still be a subsequent burden in the

jurisdiction of the seller’s tax residence.”

Further complicating the issue is the fact there is no double taxation relief between Monaco and the UK. According to the experts consulted by The Daily Telegraph, this could mean that in the event of the property owner being UK-domiciled any tax payable in Mo-naco, such as inheritance tax, would not be taken into account to reduce the deceased’s UK inheritance tax bill.The bottom line is that finding the right finan-cial product will usually provide the neces-sary investment confidence, especially with

the eurozone currency situation remaining fluid. As John Busby notes, “Get all of your documentation in place with the broker so you can push the button on the application and get the best rate when the time is right…

That is to say that it is best to have a good level of mortgage in place so that, if the cur-rency does change back to the franc, you do not lose very much in your base currency terms as the mortgage will change also. It is also likely that the monthly payment for the mortgage will go down as the franc is likely to be weaker than the euro.”

With a mild climate, picture-postcard scenery and no income tax and low business taxes, Monaco has developed into a popular tourist and fiscal haven for the rich and famous. No surprise then that the principality has the world’s highest life expectancy (nearly 90 years), the highest number of millionaires and billionaires per capita… and the most expensive real estate (over €40,000 per square metre).


a look overseas a look overseas

MALDIVES

heavenly island idyll

Maldives is formed by a double chain of 26 atolls in the Laccadive Sea, about 700 kilometres south-west of Sri Lanka and 400 kilome-

tres south-west of India. The archipelago is located on top of a vast submarine mountain range in the Indian Ocean, with the atolls of the Maldives spread over 90,000 square kilo-metres – making it one of the world’s most geographically dispersed countries. Its popu-lation of just 300,000 inhabits 200 of the 1,192 islands.

The smallest Asian country in both popula-tion and land area, it is also the world’s lowest country (average 1.5 metres above sea level) and has the lowest natural highest point in

the world (2.4 metres). Clearly then, not too much earth-moving is required to develop a residential haven for foreigners seeking a dream lifestyle by the sea.

One of the resorts offering a limited number of beachfront and over-water luxury two, three and four-bedroom villas for private ownership is Six Senses Laamu. Located on Olhuveli Island, just off the equator, Six Sens-es Laamu is a 40-minute plan journey from Hulhulé, the airport island, then a 15-minute speedboat ride.

A new life in paradise is rarely going to come cheap, and prices for the Private Resi-dence villas at Six Senses Laamu range from US$2.5 million to $8 million. Owners enjoy

the ultimate private island lifestyle while also having the opportunity of benefiting from its attractive investment potential, as there is no acquisition tax or capital-gains tax in the Maldives.

Owners placing their villas into the resort’s rental scheme are offered a guaranteed eight per cent net yield for the first five years. The best villas can bring in up to $8,000 a night from holidaymakers, and occupancy is re-ported to be more than 90 per cent.

Six Senses is part of the high-end travel empire created by Sonu Shivdasani and his Swedish wife Eva in line with their goal of pro-viding hassle-free second-home ownership. “About two million baby boomers are com-

ing to retirement age and would like to have a house in the sun, and lots of people want houses that are managed,” says Shivdasani.

Sold on renewable 44-year leases, the wood-en, thatched villas feature private swimming pools, iPods with pre-loaded music and films, bicycles and luxurious décor and furnishings. For entertainment and leisure, the resort has

six bars and restaurants, a waterfront gym, a dive school and an open-air jungle cinema. Temperatures ranging from 25 to 31C, with al-most guaranteed year-round sunshine.

According to Robert Green, who heads the sales team for Six Senses Private Residences, “For most people considering the Maldives, it’s a lifestyle purchase first, investment

second. But the investment side is increas-ingly important.” He notes that most new owners plan to spend just 30 days a year at their property. “They are looking for a holi-day home for themselves, but they also want to see some sort of return, whether that is to cover the ownership cost or to generate some extra income.”

When the first tourist resorts were opened in the Maldives in the 1970s, the island nation’s economy was transformed. The locals quickly moved from a dependence on fisheries to tourism and by the 21st century the industry had become the country’s main source of income. Now, with the loosening up in recent years of government regulations applying to foreign ownership of real estate, some of the country’s 90 or so resorts are starting to offer luxury property for sale.

villa y vida 41

living at sea

villa y vida 40

living at sea

RIVA 115 ATHENA

italian charM… and elegant exclusivity

The naval architecture and technical design were handled directly by the yard’s engineer-ing division, and the interior design and exte-rior lines bear the signature of Mauro Micheli and the Oficina Italiana Design.

As a semi-custom-built vessel, the Athena 115 provides owners with the opportunity of taking an active part in deciding the interior

layout, choosing the combinations that best adapt to their taste and requirements from a wide range of quality woods and fabrics. The number of guest cabins can vary between four and five (even six), and privacy is also paramount, with two independent, separate set of corridors, one for the owner and one for the crew.

The yacht pays customary Riva heed to in-novation. Apart from developing several per-sonalised technical features, AYT (Advanced Yacht Technology – the Ferretti Group’s naval research and design centre), took the oppor-tunity of making changes to the functionality of the bow garage and swim platform of the 115 Athena series.

The eye-catching 115 Athena is Riva’s flagship boat – the largest model built by the famous Ferretti group brand – but size is by no means the whole story. The megayacht features the boat-builder’s trademark aggressive bow, advanced deckhouse, elegant colours and precious woods, the ideal combination of modernity and stylistic refinement – a contem-porary interpretation of classic décor.

It is, in fact, the first Athena with a stern helm position that provides for the raise-lower system. This mechanism makes it possible to lower the tender into the water easily and means guests can enjoy contact with the sea by means of the stern swim platform.

With meticulous care for detail and painstak-ing attention to design the 115 Athena fea-

tures outstanding examples of contemporary Italian design: harmony and elegance are developed in a true “lounge” philosophy, per-ceptible even in the smallest details.

This lounge atmosphere can be “breathed” in the corridors and different areas of the yacht, thanks to large windows that let in nat-ural light as well as a “skylounge” on the fly-

bridge, a distinctive feature of the model. Ten people can be accommodated comfortably in this area, which is enclosed by two broad windows providing a 360-degree panoramic view over the sea.

Designed on the standard version as either an air-conditioned media room or another cosy and relaxing salon, this space can be

villa y vida 42

living at sea

completely reinterpreted according to the owner’s preferences and requirements, even becoming an additional cabin.

The remaining part of the flybridge – with its bold, sweeping lines – has been designed for relaxation and open-air activities, such as the jacuzzi whirlpool included in the standard

version, but it can also be modified to feature a study, gym or cinema.

Similarly, the layout of the master cabin de-pends on the owner’s taste: it can be located forward on the main deck or across the ves-sel below decks. The master cabin design foresees a play of chromatic contrasts based

on the chiaroscuro of wood, fabrics and other materials.

The versatile stern area includes a garage housing a tender or two ski jets, while the layout of the rotating doors provides a small 15 square metre beach and easy access into the sea.

Mit überWith more than

Con más de 1000 Immobilien-Angeboten Ihr Spezialist für den Südwesten von Mallorca.properties in our range, we are your specialist for the South West of Majorca.propiedades en nuestra cartera, somos su especialista para el sudoeste de Mallorca.

Enchanting sea-view villa of 312m², plot 800m², pool, park-ing. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, underfloor C/H, h/c A/C.

Costa den Blanes 1.395.000 € Ref 3757

Precioso chalet de 312m² con vistas al mar, solar 800m², pis-cina, parking. 4 dormitorios, 3 baños, suelo radiante, A/A f/c.

Sunny duplex apartment of 95m² + terrace of 25m², port views, com. pool. 2 bedrooms, bath, h/c AC.

Puerto Andratx 395.000 € Ref 4130

Soleado apartamento dúplex de 95m² + terraza de 25m², vistas al puerto, piscina com. 2 dormitorios, baño, AA f/c.

Sea-view villa of 300m² built, plot 950m², 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, h/c AC, pool, garden, party room, parking, garage.

Costa den Blanes 895.000 € Ref 3851

Chalet de 300m² constr., vistas al mar, solar 950m², 4 dorm., 3 baños, AA f/c, piscina, jardín, salón de ocio, parking, garaje.

Beautiful apt. of 90m² in luxury residence with pool, garden, direct sea access, parking, tennis. 2 beds, bath, guest toilet.

Santa Ponsa 550.000 € Ref 3390-3

Apto. bonito 90m² en residencial de lujo con piscina, jardín, acceso al mar, parking, tenis. 2 dorm., baño, aseo.

Mediterranean sea-view villa of 367m², terraces, pool, garage. 5 bedrooms, 5 baths, C/H, h/c AC.

Camp de Mar 2.690.000 € Ref 4593

Chalet Mediterráneo de 367m² con vistas al mar, terrazas, piscina, garaje. 5 dormitorios, 5 baños, C/C, AA f/c.

Beautiful apartment of 95m² with port views, terraces 40m², 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, h/c AC.

Puerto Andratx 495.000 € Ref 4025-2

Bonito apartamento de 95m² con vistas al puerto, terrazas de 40m², 2 dormitorios, 2 baños, AA f/c.

Calle Andratx 32, Local 3 · E 07181 Portals Nous · Tel +34-971 67 93 93 · Fax +34-971 67 58 08 · [email protected]

1st line apartment 100m², terrace 30m², 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, h/c AC, parking, com. pool + direct sea access.

Cala Vinyes 395.000 € Ref 4160

Apto. 1ª línea 100m², terraza 30m², 2 dormitorios, 2 baños, AA f/c, parking, piscina com., acceso directo al mar.

since · seit · desde 1998

Nice Price!

Nice Price!

villa y vida 45

living at sea HARBOUR LIGHTS

villa y vida 44


SYDNEY: the ultiMate waterfront address

Their fervour can be simply dismissed with a shrug, raised eyebrows and the weary observation that, “Well, you would say that, wouldn’t you! I was

born in (Palma/Marbella/London/Hamburg) and that’s the best address in the world!”

It is also true, however that – apart from peo-ple born in Melbourne – many non-Sydneysid-ers find themselves nodding and struggling to disagree, especially after a first view of

the stunningly picturesque Sydney Harbour. On further investigation they will discover the city’s famous beaches, the verdant sur-rounding forests, the chic restaurants, the multi-cultural buzz… but, for many, their first impression of Sydney is formed by the harbour and its landmark Opera House and “coat-hanger” bridge.

Away from the picture-postcard image of Sydney’s gateway, the suburbs surrounding

the harbour are home to some of Australia’s most expensive and exclusive real estate. The country’s major multinational companies have their headquarters in Sydney’s Central Business District – and their multi-millionaire (and billionaire) executives gravitate to the select waterfront suburbs, sharing hedges with sport, TV, movie and music stars and other residents of appropriately affluent means.

Sydney-born Australians tend to become quite hyperbolic when referring to their home town. “It’s the best address in the world,” is a common mantra bursting excitedly from the mouths of those fortunate to have been born in the famous harbour city.

Point Piper, on the eastern side of the har-bour six kilometres from the CBD, is gener-ally considered the most exclusive residen-tial suburb in Australia. One of its 11 streets, Wolseley Road, has been ranked by The Wall Street Journal’s Wealth Bulletin as the 10th most expensive street in the world, at US$242 per square metre (Avenue Princess Grace in Monaco leads the way at $1,036).

The total value of properties on the one-kil-

ometre waterfront section of Wolseley Road is estimated to be nearing $1 billion, with Aussie Home Loans founder John Symond’s mansion on Wingadal Palace believed to have cost over $70 million to build (excluding land), making it Australia’s most highest-priced pri-vately owned residential home.

In all, 16 of Sydney’s 100 most expensive houses are located in Wolseley Road. As The Wall Street Journal noted, “Properties on the

road have some of the best harbour views of any city in the world, with stunning scenery across to the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.”

Back across the main harbour, on the western outskirts of the CBD, Darling Harbour has be-come one of the most chic areas of Sydney. Originally the rather dreary site of NSW Rail-ways’ central marshalling yards and freight consolidation centre, most if it had become

Tourism Australia Copyright


Tourism Australia CopyrightTourism Australia Copyright

villa y vida 46


derelict by the mid to late-1980s and was re-developed as a pedestrian and tourism pre-cinct by the state government.

Since then, the government has also an-nounced plans for a major urban renewal development in East Darling Harbour, to be known as Barangaroo and due for comple-tion in 2020. Half of the 18-hectare site will include business and residential develop-

ments, while the other half will be reserved for open public space. One of the proposed focal points of the project is “Globe Street”, designed to become Australia and the Asia Pacific area’s centre for corporate trade – styled on New York’s Wall Street district.

Eight kilometres north-east of the CBD is Vaucluse, Sydney’s most expensive suburb – with Bellevue Hill the only other suburb with

a median house price over three million Aus-tralian dollars (about €2.4 million).

Vaucluse has been one of the most affluent and prestigious addresses in Sydney for dec-ades, its location on the South Head penin-sula, with the Pacific Ocean to the east, pro-viding commanding views across the harbour to the bridge.


Tourism NSW - Courtesy of DSRD


area directory directory

andratx

calviÀ

son vida

llucMajor

PalMa surroundings

inca

Pollença

sÓller

arta

santanyí

PalMa

Welcome to the Villa & Vida area directory, where we showcase the island’s most eligible properties in an easy to digest format. We are well aware that the majority of property hunting is done on the internet these days, quite simply because the online search method is much easier and more effi cient in terms of fi nding a property that ticks all the boxes. Therefore, our area guide has been created based on this internet model.

Within our directory, you can search for your dream property by area in ascending price order. We are confi dent you will fi nd what you are looking for right here, so grab a coffee and happy hunting!

advertise with us!To advertise a property within our Area Directory please get in touch at +34 971 450 432 or email us at [email protected].

(Please bear in mind we do not advertise the same property more than once, so any duplications will be dealt with on a fi rst come fi rst served basis. Get in touch now to avoid disappointment).


area: andratx area: santanyí

Cas Concos

€4.850.0007

Mjc associates www.mjcassociates.net | Tel: +34 971 57 99 57

5 445 m2

11076

16.500 m2

Cala Santanyi

€1.865.0003

jerome ledin inmobiliaria www.jl-immobilien.de | Tel: +34 971 65 35 57

3 230 m2

1084

800 m2

Cala Llombards

€750.0003


2 165 m2

1185

8.000 m2

Cala Figuera

€1.690.0003


2 250 m2

1121

12.000 m2

Cala d‘Or

Price on Application11

Mallorca site www.mallorcasite.com | Tel: +34 971 712 165

12 730 m2

6322

1.850 m2

Santanyi

€1.270.0004


4 254 m2

1010

14.300 m2

Port Andratx

€495.0002

sunMallorca.coM www.sunmallorca.com | Tel: +34 971 698 588

2 88 m2

200212

Puerto Andratx

€695.0004

Sunshine Golf Investments www.sgi-mallorca.co.uk | Tel: +34 971 69 55 12

3 123 m2

9171

78 m2

Port Andratx

€640.0002

sunMallorca.coM www.sunmallorca.com | Tel: +34 971 698 588

2 100m2

20400

Paguera

€369.0003


2 107 m2

9361

20 m2

Andratx

€900.0003

Mallorca Prime homes www.mallorcaprimehomes.com | Tel: +34 971 69 21 21

3 300 m2

MPH-0209

2300 m2

Port Andratx

€3.950.0004


5 450 m2

0303

50.000 m2

Initially founded in Stuttgart in 1984, the name Dressler & Partner has become synonymous with dedication and success within the construction industry. One secret of its success may be the fact that for the past 20 years it has employed the

same methods of construction as used back in Germany. By carrying out work in accordance with the German standard official contracting code VOB (Verdingungsordnung im Baugewerbe) Dressler can ensure the quality of the work while avoiding problems that are often encountered with construction on Mallorca. One of the main advantages of constructing in this way is that the weight of the building is distributed evenly onto the ground through all the walls, instead of the load being borne only at giv-en points. From a building physics point of view, the advantages lie in the walls, mostly made of aerated concrete blocks (YTONG), which regulate the indoor temperature. The cavities between the bricks and concrete blocks are insulated in such a way as to ensure an even transfer of heat through the wall, which prevents condensation and mould growth. The horizontal damp-proof barrier under all the masonry makes it impos-sible for moisture from the soil to penetrate.

All building design work is undertaken in close collaboration with the German firm of architects Rainer Hencke-Steiner and a range of highly reputable Spanish architects, all of whom have a proven track record of reliability, expertise and many years of experience. All construction work is carried out under the supervision of German master craftsmen, and for the structural calcula-tions required in building the company works with Keller, a firm of engineering consultants in Tübingen. Now with four offices on the island, Binissalem, Port d’Andratx and two in Algaida, Dressler & Partner offers clients a one-stop shop, from find-ing the ideal plot of land right through to handing over the key to your dream home.

For more information visit: bauenmallorca.eu

DRESSLER & PARTNER

Unique country house in idyllic location location situated atop of Randa mountain. Available direct from the original constructor. 32,000m2 plot with 500m2 living area.

Spectacular views from every room, 5 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 2 living rooms/chimney, kitchen and guesthouse. Constructed using only the best materials: insulated walls, horizontal damp-proofing, underfloor heating, ventilated roofing,

exposed beam celing and much more.

3.6 Mio. Euros

Dressler Construcciones Baleares S.L. • C/ Sa Tanqueta 16, Algaida www.bauenmallorca.eu - Tel.: 971 12 53 75 - Fax: 971 12 51 07villa y vida 52

area: inca to Pollenca

Campanet

€6.850.0004

Mjc associateswww.mjcassociates.net | Tel: +34 971 57 99 57

4 548 m2

08046

15.400 m2

Alaro

€4.250.0004

Mjc associateswww.mjcassociates.net | Tel: +34 971 57 99 57

4 500 m2

11063

100.000 m2

Pollenca

€675.0003

Balearic Propertieswww.balearic-properties.com | Tel: +34 971 68 40 00

3 251 m2

POL4641SUB

1000 m2

Mal Pas-Bonaire

€1.400.0005

Balearic Propertieswww.balearic-properties.com | Tel: +34 971 68 40 00

5 473 m2

BON4721POL4

1096 m2

ce consulting eMPresarial

Mari Cunningham SolicitorLegal ,tax and Accountancy ServicesC/ Miguel de los Santos Oliver,2 , 1-A

07181 Palmanova

Tel.: 971 59 11 18 • Mob: 696 03 59 31 • Fax 971 681127

[email protected]

valentin MartineZ gaMero

Arquitecto tecnico & project ManagerC/Miguel de los Santos Oliver, 2, 1A

07181 Palmanova

[email protected]

Tel.: 660 383060


area: calvia area: calvia

Santa Ponsa

€425.0002

sonne von Mallorca www.sonnevonmallorca.com | Tel: +34 971 67 93 93

2 100 m2

4160

Nova Santa Ponsa

€375.0002


2 135 m2

9948

2-3 2

Santa Ponsa

€265.000


125 - 218 m2

9774 Nova Santa Ponsa

€345.0002


2 122 m2 24 m2 (Terrace)

9556 Son Serra de Marina

€475.0003


3 125 m2

0332

950 m2

Calvia

€395.0003

real homes Mallorca www.realhomesmallorca.com | Tel: +34 971 676 484

2 101 m2

436

169 m2

Illetas

€495.0002


2

1229

Portals Nous

€525.0002/3


2 126 m2

1244

1000 m2

Es Capdella

from €195.000


Las Terrazas

from €475.000


Bendinat

€595.0002


2 138 m2

1097

Advertise here!Call 971 450 432

Email [email protected]


area: calvia area: calvia

Bendinat

€895.0004

Mallorca gold www.mallorcagold.com | Tel: +34 971 790 701

2 120 m2

60316

Puigpunyent

€1.800.0007


5 500 m2

0122

1260 m2

Palma Nova

€795.0007

Beaumount Properties www.beaumountproperties.com | Tel: +34 971 697 256

5 450 m2

V0359

945 m2

2730 m2

Es Capdella

€1.100.0003


4 208 m2

0208Bendinat

€690.0004

Beaumount Properties www.beaumountproperties.com | Tel: +34 971 697 256

3 170 m2

A0376

90 m2 (Terraces)

Cost de la Calma

€1.850.0006

Martinez Mead s.l. www.martinez-mead.com | Tel: +34 971 680916

5 420 m2

V1192

1600 m2

Nova Santa Ponsa

€1.690.0004

kensington finest Properties www.kensington-international.com | Tel: +34 971 700 764

4 380 m2

KSP 00034

1100 m2

813 m2

Nova Santa Ponsa

€1.999.0003


2 200m2

9452Santa Ponsa

€1.999.0004


4

9782

1645 m2

Santa Ponsa

€895.0004


3 300 m2

3851

950 m2

Santa Ponsa

€695.0002


2 120 m2

9953

300 m2

Santa Ponsa

€650.0002


2 112 m2

2750

villa y vida 58

area: calvia

THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO REAL ESTATE AND LUXURY LIVING

www.villayvida.com

villa&vidareal estate & luxury living

Santa Ponsa

€2.900.0005

sonne von Mallorcawww.sonnevonmallorca.com | Tel: +34 971 67 93 93

5 600 m2

4028

1920 m2

Santa Ponsa

€2.990.0004

dost & co. Balearic real estatewww.dost-co.co.uk | Tel: +34 971 60 99 89

4 443 m2

241111

1750 m2

Son Vida

€5.500.0006

Mallorca Prime homeswww.mallorcaprimehomes.com | Tel: +34 971 69 21 21

7 1090 m2

0175

3214 m2

Bendinat

€2.950.0005

Mallorca goldwww.mallorcagold.com | Tel: +34 971 790 701

3 546 m2

60325

1200 m2

Nova Santa Ponsa

€2.000.0004

Sunshine Golf Investmentswww.sgi-mallorca.co.uk | Tel: +34 971 69 55 12

4 434 m2

9463

1195 m2

Nova Santa Ponsa

€2.250.0005

Sunshine Golf Investmentswww.sgi-mallorca.co.uk | Tel: +34 971 69 55 12

4 380 m2

9338

1207 m2

Son Vida

€1.700.0004


2 450 m2

20297

2000 m2


area: son vida area: son vida

Son Vida

€2.890.0004


4 500 m2

20341

2300 m2

Genova

€1.390.0004


3 290 m2

V1200

8300 m2

Son Font

€1.950.0005


4 500 m2

V1108

4000 m2

Bendinat

€2.900.0005


3 630 m2

V1066

1200 m2

Cala Viñas

€1.400.0004


3 355 m2

V1071

1400 m2

Sol de Mallorca

€1.490.0003


4 350 m2

V1153

1600 m2

Son Vida

€3.400.0006


3 650 m2

20125

3000 m2

Son Vida

€850.0006


600 m2

40159

2060 m2

Campanet

€6.850.0004


4 548 m2

08046

15.400 m2

Alaro

€4.250.0004


4 500 m2

11063

100.000 m2

Advertise here!Call 971 450 432

Email [email protected]

30.000 m2

Bunyola -Hillside estate with sea views

€4.350.0005

dost & co.www.dost-co.com | Tel: +34 971 60 99 89

6 450m2

510102 Valldemossa

€15.000.00020

Mallorca sitewww.mallorcasite.com | Tel: +34 971 71 21 65

20 2.400 m2

6103

971.920 m2

villa y vida 62

area: PalMa and surroundings

Bunyola

€3.450.0007


5 620 m2

90342

16800 m2

Palma

€1.950.0006


3 550 m2

80244

8000 m2

Arenal - Apartment

€175.0003

dressler & Partnerwww.bauenmallorca.eu | Tel: +34 971 125 375

2 104 m2

007

Rea

l Peo

ple

Rea

l Life

Rea

l Hom

es

Inca

€499.0004

Mallorca Prime homeswww.mallorcaprimehomes.com | Tel: +34 971 69 21 21

3 140

0302

21.300 m2

Villa & Vida - Spring Issue

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