Real estate agent, do you need it?

Buying/selling home is not simple and is a significant transaction for most people. Invest countless hours in Internet research and doublechecking every detail of useful and useless information. However there’s no substitute for experienced professional dealing with selecting properties, deposit and transaction. In the maze of confusing paperwork and a hard-to-navigate process it makes perfect sense to work with a real estate agent. They have knowledge of process and subtleties of specific market.

The Devil You Know

One statistic that would be interesting but is difficult to measure is the difference in final sale price for a property sold by the owner and the same property sold by an agent. Even though the interests of a real estate agent may conflict with your best interests these professionals can still serve an important purpose.

Real estate agents generally have a more realistic view of what a home is worth. Besides good agents are adept at getting that price. Additionally, real estate agents save you time by showing your home without interrupting your schedule more than necessary.

Perhaps the most important function of an agent is to ensure that the contracts and other legal matters are in order. No one wants to get through all the stress of listing and selling their home and then find out that they are being sued over an avoidable breach of contract.

While the commissions do take from your bottom line, the advice of a good agent are likely worth it. The challenge is finding a good agent and making sure that your interests are in line.

Don’t hesitate and get in touch with us so you can sell or rent your house with professionals!

Selecting a real estate agent

Agents know more than Internet – more properties (not everyone wants to publicize fact of selling), more specific features. American realtors call it “purple room” phenomenon. If a buyer wants a house with a purple room, an experienced agent knows the house for sale with exactly that room.

Something unexpected always blows up (Murphy’s law “Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong”) and only agents can get rid of problems, even before they appear.

All agents are not equal. When you are considering selling your house, the first thing you should do is ask colleagues and friends for referrals. Referrals from other professionals tend to carry a lot of weight and result in preferential treatment. All because a real estate agent will not want to lose a large source of referrals.

Even a good real estate agent may falter on a property type he is not used to dealing with. So, if you have a particular type of property, you may want an agent who knows how to deal with that type of property. The agent will know more about how and where to market the house. He will also probably be more successful at finding potential buyers.

Conclusion

Despite the drawbacks of having to rely on someone else, a good agent is worth your money. Unless you have the education, time, energy and marketing experience to sell your own home. Finding a good real estate agent may involve some false starts. However, if you go through referrals and set your own terms, you should find that the commission you pay is money well spent.

With our professional team at rent-marbella you can be sure your house is in the right hands!

16th November 201816th November 2018

Golden Mile – a fabulous place to live

The Golden Mile is one of Marbella’s most sought after residential and commercial real estate destinations. All due to its location right in between the Marbella town centre and Puerto Banus.

How it all started

Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe founded the legendary Marbella Club Hotel in 1954. With that the former fishing village became a hot spot for the international jet set and started the image of Golden Mile as the main playground of the famous, rich and very rich. Today it remains one of the finest addresses in Europe. It is the among the most established and mature markets attracting “the upper echelons of society”. Among them Spanish and European aristocrats, Arabian sheikhs and kings, presidents, respectable politicians and businessmen, Hollywood stars.

beach golden mile — Gorgeous Golden mile beaches

Not surprisingly! This is a fabulous place to visit and even more fabulous place to live in, with the sparkling Mediterranean in front and dramatic Andalusian mountains behind, just minutes’ drive from the Old Centre of Marbella and chic&glam of Puerto Banús. Golden sand and sun, the most valuable in Europe palatial homes and real estate worth a whole lot of gold. The epitome of luxury, extravagance and opulence has it all. From luxury leisure facilities open from dusk till dawn to designer label boutiques and jewellers, manicured golf-courses, finest restaurants with international or traditional Spanish cuisine, from Michelin-starred places boasting the world-famous chefs and sommeliers to lovely cafés with gourmet treats. Golden Mile is not a location, it’s a lifestyle!

The mountainside part of the Golden Mile offers lovely villas, townhouses and plots. They have stunning coastal views in areas such as Cascada de Camojan, Sierra Blanca, Marbella Hill Club, Las Lomas del Marbella Club, El Vicario, La Carolina, Rocío de Nagueles or Río Verde to name a few.

Don’t forget to check the holiday properties available in the area!

Golden Mile – class and style

Originally the term defined the areas immediately adjacent to the N-340 road from Marbella to Puerto Banus. It also includes Saudi Arabia’s King Fahad’s residence, and the Don Pepe, Marbella Club and Puente Romano Hotels. With time the term extended to areas in the hills above Marbella such as Rocio de Nagueles and Sierra Blanca.

The area has been keeping its class and style over the years and elegance to perfection. Many original buildings had a radical reconstruction for ultimate comfort and technology. They do still maintain its old charm, which enhance the day-to-day living experience.

Seaside and hill areas are divided by the palm-lined 8km boulevard stretching from Marbella to Puerto Banús, with iconic Marbella Club and Puente Romano hotels attracting crème de la crème from all over the world, business centres, Royal Mosque and residential complex Playa Esmeralda. Completely developed beachside of Golden Mile (1st line) boasts stunning beachfront villas (mega-exclusive up to 80 million euros), apartments and townhouses in Las Torres, Rio Verde and Puente Romano.

Finally, if you think Golden Mile is for you, go ahead and check our holiday properties in the area!

14th November 201813th November 2018

Guadalmina Baja – pure elegance

Characterised by large private homes bordering onto leafy streets or the fairways of the Real Club de Golf Guadalmina, this well-established residential area is certainly one of the most refined and pleasant living environments in Marbella.

Located on the beachside west of Marbella. only few kilometers away from the centre of Marbella. It is also close to glamorous Puerto Banus and a lovely town of San Pedro de Alcántara. Guadalmina was originally a residential zone associated with Spanish and European aristocracy. It has become established as a peaceful and luxurious suburb bordering the fairways of the Real Club de Golf Guadalmina. It has got two 18-hole golf courses and a smaller 9-hole course.

Guadalmina baja from the air — Guadalmina Baja aerial view

Guadalminas – two pearls of the Costa del Sol

There are some attractive apartment buildings featuring white modernist design and vistas of the golf course that is so central to life in this part of Marbella. Not surprisingly, Guadalmina is also much favoured by those who love the game, and its two full courses, designated North and South, dominate the landscape in the style of an extensive and beautifully manicured parkland.

The North Course corresponds to the area known as Guadalmina Alta, where charming villas share views of fairways with a number of high-spec apartment complexes. The South Course, which fronts the sea in places, lies within the part called Guadalmina Baja.

Guadalmina Baja is one of the most attractive areas and truly one of the jewels of the Costa del Sol. Here you will find the best sandy beaches of the Costa del Sol rewarded with the European Blue Flag. It is very close to different shops, Spanish and English private colleges and different restaurants of international cuisine.

Take a look at our holiday properties available in the area!

Living in Guadalmina Baja

The area is full of grand villas on sizeable grounds. A wonderful mix of modern and traditional, hi-tech luxury and rustic charm, and is also the site of the five-star Hotel Guadalmina. The stunning classic beachfront estates belonging to the oldest Spanish families. The certainly fascinating quality villas of traditional Andalusian style, palaces of ancient Moorish or contemporary South-East Asian design equipped with the finest materials. It is all serviced with the latest technology and enjoy magnificent sea and mountain views.

villa guadalmina — Gorgeous villas in Guadalmina

The properties can also boast reception rooms perfect for grand entertaining; fantastic living rooms and spacious bedrooms; formal and informal dining rooms with fireplaces and wooden beamed ceilings; fully fitted and equipped kitchen; professional cinema room, gym and spa facilities, secured garage and also parking for several cars. Wine cellars, bodegas, are usually on the lower level.

The houses are surrounded by magnificent park-like gardens with mature trees and beautiful flowerbeds. There are also ponds with water falls, indoors and outdoors non chlorine swimming pools with cascades and fantastic pool and barbecue areas. Gracious driveways lead to the impressive entrances and lovely Spanish patios with fountains and traditional Mediterranean flower pots.

With an attractive setting upon its own stretch of coastline, minutes away from San Pedro and ten minutes from Marbella. It is certainly a convenient oasis of peace and elegance in the heart of the greater Marbella area.

Finally, if you think Guadalmina is for you, go ahead and check our holiday properties in the area!

12th November 201813th November 2018

El Madroñal – Costa del Sol’s best-kept secrets

La Reserva del Madronal, or simply El Madronal, is one of the Costa del Sol’s best-kept secrets. It’s on the Ronda Road in the district of Benahavis and perched 400 metres above sea level with spectacular views. El Madroñal lies on a vast plot of pine and cork forest adjacent to the ultra-exclusive La Zagaleta estate.

El Madroñal is a pine cork in residential area of private estates. It is very close to Marbella at around a 15min drive and to the coast at 10min. The estate is conveniently located at short driving distance to golf courses. Among them Los Arqueros Golf Course, La Quinta Golf and the golf courses of the Golf Valley. There is an abundance of recreational facilities in nearby Puerto Banus, the world famous marina, at a 15min drive.

Check out our holiday properties in the area!

el madronal marbella — Spectacular views from El Madroñal

El Madroñal – Costa del Sol’s best-kept secrets

Marbella’s well known for attracting A-list celebrities and VIPs. Getting away from the paparazzi in the resort itself can be challenge. Nonetheless there is a place you can stay in complete privacy and still enjoy all that Marbella and Puerto Banus have to offer.

This peace is in an idyllic country retreat in the foothills of the Sierra de las Nieves. Yet it is just a short drive from Marbella and the coast. It might be close in distance but this tranquil refuge is a world away from the glamour of Puerto Banus. Here, you’ll find yourself in the heart of typically Mediterranean landscape with the Mediterranean and Strait of Gibraltar stretching beneath you.

El Madronal gated development sits above the Guadaiza River valley on the mountain side forested with pines, cork oaks and aromatic shrubs. Carpetted in wild flowers in spring and in a riot of colour in autumn , it’s home to a long list of fauna – wild boars, deer and mountain goats – as well as numerous species of birds.

Go ahead and take a look at our holiday properties in the area!

Madroñal villas — Magnificent villas in El Madroñal

Attracting millionaires since 1950

This natural paradise rubs shoulders with neighbouring La Zagaleta, one of the richest postcodes in Spain, and has been earmarked by the rich and famous as somewhere to get away from prying eyes (and the cameras) since the 1950’s when the first millionaires built their exclusive retreats here. The development has been designed to provide space and privacy. Plots are at least 2,600 square metres so there’s plenty of scope for spacious houses and large gardens. All come with sweeping views you can see the different peaks that make up the Rif Mountains in Morocco.

Luxury is key to describing homes in El Madronal. Alongside spacious living go sumptuous furnishings and fittings, infinity pools, manicured gardens, state of the art technology, staff accommodation and room for several cars. All within natural surroundings where the silence is only broken by birdsong.

High security on the complex translates into total privacy. Numerous high-profile politicians, executives and businesspeople have escaped from their daily grind here for a welcome break. And plenty of celebrities have taken holidays in El Madronal far from the long lenses of the paparazzi. But discretion is absolute so you never know who’s staying until they’re not there anymore – as fans of One Direction has just discovered.

Celebrity homes on the development include the estate belonging to the film star Madeleine Carroll, known as the ‘iceberg maiden’ and star of Hitchcock’s ’39 Steps’. Her magnificent El Madronal home was one of the first to build and she spent her retirement here. You can get a taste of a Hollywood retreat by renting the large country mansion, Hacienda Madronal 2.

Finally, if you think this is the place for you check our holiday properties in the area!

10th November 2018

La Zagaleta – the wealthiest municipality in Andalucia

Located at 500 metres above sea level and just a gentle ten minute drive inland. Benahavis is also becoming renowned for its outdoor activities. The hilltop village is just under the Serranía de Ronda mountain range. It is the ideal backdrop for the new craze of adventurous exploring. Canyoning in the Guadalmina River, 4×4 jeep safaris, rock climbing, abseiling, mountain biking and hiking. There’s plenty to keep the thrill seekers occupied. For something slightly less adrenaline fuelled, cross Las Angosturas at the Tres Pergolas to join the Acequia hiking route – one of several starting near or within the village.

Benahavis is the wealthiest municipality (per capita) in Andalucía. It is al due to no small part, to it being home to the most luxurious urbanisations in Spain. They include El Madroñal, the Marbella Club Golf Resort and La Zagaleta Country Club.

Go ahead and check our holiday properties in Benahavis!

La Zagaleta

Families and individuals who prefer to live in big mansions set in large private grounds, surrounded with the beauty of protected nature, will probably search for a property in the community of La Zagaleta.

This area offers total peace, independence and security, combined with a stunning setting and luxurious facilities. Called “one of the most beautiful sites in Europe”, with certainly the best panoramic views to be enjoyed. It certainly ranks amongst the most exclusive and is chosen by people who are looking for quality and privacy.

With a history of famous owners including Henri Roussel (father of Cristina Onassis’ husband Thierry Roussell) and later controversial businessman and onetime world’s richest man, Adnan Khashoggi, La Zagaleta was originally a hunting estate until it was transformed into a 2,000 acre residential development by the current owners.

Take a look at our holiday properties so you don’t miss your perfect holiday!

villa zagaleta — Exclusive properties in Zagaleta

Exclusiveness all around you

It’s come a long way from the days when Khashoggi’s lavish parties were the talk of the town. His massive 5,100m² villa transformed into the superb La Zagaleta clubhouse. It is open exclusively to residents and members who can access the various meeting rooms, restaurants, bar, café, BBQ, swimming pool, library, party pavilion, billiard room, bowling alley and pro-shop.

This private domain, covering 900 hectares of woods and green valleys, is in the heart of Benahavis hills. It is also just a few minutes’ drive from fabulous Puerto Banus and the beaches. This refined Country Club has got an equestrian center, an elegant Clubhouse with a restaurant, recreational, social and sports activities areas, a swimming pool with waiter service.

La Zagaleta’s stunning villas and magnificent estates located in a world class exclusive gated community with 24 hours security. Certainly the most impressive properties of Europe offer exceptional standards, design and quality. The mansions built on large plots boast spectacular views over the Mediterranean Sea, European and African coast lines and the Rock of Gibraltar. Some of the luxurious houses are overlooking two excellent residents-only golf courses. The beautifully landscaped gardens also contain water features; there are tennis courts, large swimming pools, spacious patios, spa, big terraces with solariums, and special places for leisure activities. The houses have got wine cellars. It is hardly surprising that an area that offers nature, security and comfort of living has become such a preferred lifestyle destination.

Finally if you are as excited about La Zagaleta as we are, go ahead and check our holiday properties in the area!

9th November 201810th November 2018

Sierra Blanca – The Beverly Hills of Marbella

The Sierra Blanca, meaning ‘White Range’, is named after the lack of vegetation on its slopes. It leaves the pale grey limestone rock exposed.

Sierra Blanca is definitely one of the most prestigious areas on the Costa del Sol. Anybody who wishes to live in an elegant and secure residential area in the heart of Marbella, will probably search for a property here.

Sierra Blanca

It occupies the lower reaches of the iconic La Concha Mountain that towers majestically over Marbella. Tucked in between indigenous umbrella pines, Sierra Blanca’s elevated position offers imposing views over Marbella and its coastline to the Mediterranean, all the way across to Gibraltar and North Africa.

While too expansive to be a gated urbanization, Sierra Blanca can be considered a gated community with excellent 24h security. Minimum of transit traffic makes it a highly tranquil and secluded residential area set against the picturesque foothills of Marbella’s symbol- La Concha Mountain. This position affords the area with fantastic views over Marbella and the coastline, whilst backing on to protected natural parkland.

Sierra Blanca’s privacy belies a convenient setting just a few minutes from the Old City (Casco Antiguo) – a charming center of Marbella, exciting Puerto Banús, a wide choice of excellent golf courses, beaches and other facilities.

Sierra Blanca has certainly been in demand with higher end home buyers from a wide range of nationalities. They range from British, Spanish and German homeowners to Scandinavian, Dutch and also Russian ones. Sierra Blanca is a very international environment that is becoming increasingly popular with affluent Russians in particular.

It has the appeal of the large, luxurious properties, the security and privacy but not only that. It is also characterized by its compelling combination of country style pleasures. For example you can go for walks in the countryside, combined with being right at the heart of everything. What’s more, Sierra Blanca has some of the most spectacular views anywhere along this coast.

Sierra Blanca properties — Sierra Blanca exclusive properties

Take a look at our holiday properties in this area!

Only exclusive properties

Some people call it “The Beverly Hills of Marbella”. Here you will find the most stunning villas and exclusive estates with high quality features. The properties have the best panoramic views and built on the beautifully landscape grounds. All of it with swimming pools, tennis courts, wine cellars and big outdoor areas.

In the lower part of the mountain range you will also find apartment complexes, modern and elegant, built to the highest quality standards. There are bright and spacious apartment with shaded terraces, lush tropical gardens, gyms and swimming pools inside and outside the building, 24h security.

You can also find several schools, including the well-known international school Swans here. They provide high level education to the children of different nationalities. We can offer you a wide choice of exceptional property or plots in Sierra Blanca, and help you to build an impressive home in this beautiful, private and secure area with magical views.

Go ahead and check our holiday properties in the area!

6th November 20189th November 2018

Four Seasons Marbella

What do Miami, Paris, Dubai and Marbella have in common? Above all they are all destinations of the legendary Four Seasons, and not only for a new luxury hotel. It won’t be just one of 111 resorts and 39 residences that the reputable company built in 46 countries. A unique project will deliver a tourist resort complex of a special type. It is a luxury hotel for the modern traveller and private luxury residences on the beachfront. The plot of 400,000m2 with allowance to build 100,000m2 and 700 m of beach is located at the entrance of Marbella.

Take a look at our list of holiday properties in the area!

International project

Villa Padierna owns the land, belonging to Malaga businessman Ricardo Arranz. He has also partnered with North American firm Fort Partners and Belgian real estate company Inmobel. Four Seasons certainly will not only manage the hotel, but also the private residences and villas. The complex will also include internationally-renowned restaurants that will come to Spain solely for this project.

The luxury hotel resort will be the brainchild of architect Richard Meier and those involved in the project describe it as marvel. It will open in 2020.

Take a look at our holiday properties available in Marbella!

Beginning of a new era

Marbella begins “a new era” in this type of tourism, as the president of Villa Padierna Ricardo Arranz said. “What happened to Miami? Before it began to have great brands, it did not grow much as destination”.

It will certainly kindle a ‘new era’ in luxury tourism in Marbella. Ricardo Arranz, President of Villa Padierna, who are partners in the project, said: “Marbella and Madrid need the glamour that these types of brands give. Arranz added that the residences on the complex will allow for the very wealthy to stay for up to two months at a time.

The first brick of the new Four Seasons was laid on October 5. The ceremony also attended the ‘Who’s Who’ of business and politics in Andalucía and Spain: president of Junta de Andalucía, Susana Diaz, Minister of Tourism, Francisco Javier Fernández; President of Provincial Tourism Board of the Costa del Sol, Elías Bendodo; president of Andalusian Business Confederation Javier González Lara, president of Villa Padierna Ricardo Arranz, mayor of Marbella, Angeles Munoz. Marbella also saw a lot of very respectable guests: General Secretary of the World Tourism Organization, Zurab Pololikashvili, Four Seasons’s CEO Allen Smith, Fort Partners’ founder, Nadim Ashi, executive president of the Belgian Immobel, Marnix Galle, and others.

The land for the buildings of the Four Seasons Hotel & Private Residences Marbella is also “fully urbanized”, waiting for construction to begin. The numbers are impressive: 650 mln. euros of investments and more than 2,000 temporary and 750 permanent jobs to create.

Finally one of the most luxurious tourist complexes in Spain will to open its doors in two years.

How lucky we are to have it all at hand in one of the most wonderful places on Earth. Welcome to Marbella!