Sigo pensando que es el mejor momento de comprar. La oferta inmobiliaria en Lanzarote
ha bajado los precios y hay mucha variedad en casas rurales, villas, solares y oficinas. Claro, es que la burbuja ha explotado, pero yo conozco bien la historia de esta isla, y siempre Lanzarote ha resurgido de las crisis como el Ave Fénix. Por lo que comprar ahora, es hacerlo a buen precio y por lo tanto una buena inversión.
Pero, ¿hasta cuando esa caída? Siempre se ha dicho que invertir en ladrillo es una inversión segura, pero el problema estriba en que se trata de un dinero que se va a inmovilizar durante muchos años.
Según los promotores anunciaron hace escasos días los precios de las viviendas han bajado un 15%, indicando que “ya hay buenas oportunidades para la inversión“. El encarecimiento de la vivienda, producto de la subida de tipos de interés, ha provocado un estrangulamiento en las familias que se ven obligadas a vender sus viviendas a un precio inferior. Durante toda la fase alcista de precios, incluso, muchas de estas familias compraron otras viviendas que no utilizan como domicilio habitual, sino que lo hicieron con motivos especulativos. Los plazos de venta, sin embargo, ahora se han ampliado en muchos meses, incluso en años, y lo que antes se vendía en 15 días ahora se vende en 9 meses, por lo que la urgencia en vender también arrastra de los precios hacia abajo. Es en estos periodos de estrangulamiento cuando salen muy buenos chollos a los que merece la pena estar alerta.
Los expertos aconsejan aún esperar el transcurso de este año, pero comienzan a ser cada vez más las voces que aconsejan estar al tanto de la oferta inmobiliaria. Como se diría en Bolsa, tampoco podemos querer comprar justo en el valle…
esto es, cuando los precios alcanzan el mínimo antes del rebote, sino que se ha de considerar el momento en que todas las señales técnicas comienzan a alertar de que la caída se va frenando.
Lo cierto es que desde todos los Gobiernos se trabaja en pos de aliviar la situación económica, y sobre todo, uno de los principales factores influyentes en los cambios de precios, el tipo de interés, al menos, en Estados Unidos, está bajando. Tenemos ofertas de viviendas a muy buen precios en Costa Teguise, saber mas…
Costa Teguise is different from the other main tourist resorts on Lanzarote. It is a purpose built resort – unlike other tourist areas which have developed from fishing villages. It is ideal for families and
sun seekers. Located on the north east coast, just north of the island’s capital, Arrecife, it has lots of little squares around which are bars and a wide variety of shops and restaurants.
The atmosphere of Costa Teguise is quieter than, for example, Puerto del Carmen, but, nevertheless, there are lots of things to do.
Water sports of all kinds are, of course, high on the agenda – sailing, windsurfing, jet skiing, snorkeling and scuba diving.
Just outside Costa Teguise are an 18 hole golf course and a large water park where aquatic rides are available.
In the nearby village of Teguise (capital of the island in earlier times), a market is held every Sunday to which visitors from all over the island flock.
Goods displayed in the market include locally handcrafted items ranging from pottery to tablecloths.
Beautiful Golden Beaches
The big attractions are, of course, sun, sand and sea. There are three great beaches in Costa Teguise – Las Cucharas, Los Charcos and Playa Bastian.
Las Cucharas is 600 metres of golden sand and is extremely popular with windsurfers. It is close to hotels and all types of services are available.
Los Charcos and Playa Bastian are smaller with golden sands. Playa Bastian, being protected from the wind, is ideal for children.
Nightlife
Although the nightlife of Costa Teguise is more subdued, there is plenty to do at night. There are some nice bars around the market place.
The island’s centre for a real night out is Puerto del Carmen which is only 10 miles distant and taxis are readily available.
Further Afield
Nowhere is far from anywhere on this small island which is just 36 miles long by 12 miles wide.
The island’s turbulent past can best be appreciated by paying a visit to the awe inspiring Fire Mountains and to the nearby Visitor Centre.
When purchasing property in Spain certain steps are required by law. There are also steps you can take which are legally recognised and binding, but are not mandatory. The following list explains some of the usual steps that are followed.
Private Sales Contract or Contrato Privado de Compraventa
A contract that specifies, in as much detail as possible (price, dates, contents, etc.), the terms under which the transaction will take place. Several scenarios can be foreseen in private sale contracts. For instance the payment of an initial deposit of 10% of the price at the moment of signing of the private sale contract, and payment of the remainder at the moment of signing the public deed of sale. In this scenario the parties may agree that the deposit of 10% is lost if the buyer fails to grant the public deed.
This contract should specify when the public granting of deeds – known as Escritura – will take place.
Public Deed of Sale or Escritura Publica de Compraventa
The Escritura de Compraventa is a mandatory contract if the sale is to be registered publicly in the land registry. By law this document must be authorised by a Spanish Notary (Notario) and must also be signed by the buyer and seller (or their representatives with power of attorney) in front of the Notary. The Notary guarantees, by virtue of his public office, the legality of the transaction, and explains to both parties the terms of the transaction. At this moment the full price, or any remaining payments (should any exist) on the purchase price are made. Effectively this is the moment when the new owner takes possession of the property. This act, know in Spanish as the Escritura Publica results in the Escritura Publica de Compraventa, or title deeds, which state who the new owners of the property are. It is impossible to inscribe property in the land registry without the Escritura Publica de Compraventa, and inscription with the land registry is the most secure form of ownership. Certain documents should be provided by the seller, at the very latest, at the time of the Escritura. The precise documents required vary case by case, and you lawyer will be able to advise you on the documents required in your case. However documents could include, amongst others: - Original title deeds - Proof of payment of the most recent local property tax (IBI) - Proof of up to date payment of utilities - Certificate from the administrator of the community of owners showing that payments are up to date The title deeds will be in Spanish. Always have a legal representative with you to confirm that the final deeds you sign are what you are expecting to sign, and be sure to check the details of the property and the names of the parties just before you sign. Your lawyer will need to be there with you to confirm, in your own language, what you are signing. After signing the Notary will give the buyer both original title deeds and simple copies of the deeds. These documents are required to pay the appropriate taxes and for inscription in the land registry. Your lawyer should help you carry out these formalities.
Registering the property
Your lawyer should help you to register your new property with the land registry IMMEDIATELY after the Escritura. Once you have submitted the Escritura for registration, it may take 1 – 2 months for the process to be completed. Your lawyer should also register you as new owner of property with the Catastro which is the local government’s registry of property and owners. This will ensure that you receive all correspondence relating to the local property tax.
Other formalities
In some special cases, such as residents of tax havens purchasing property in Spain, or non-residents buying property for more than 3,005,061 Euros, there a number of other legal formalities to comply with.
Due diligence on Spanish property
Before signing any contracts that commit you to buying property it is important to confirm that the property belongs to the seller in its totality, and that it is free of debts and charges (in Spain mortgages, tax obligations, and other charges are ascribed to property rather than individuals). It may also be prudent to carry out a number of other checks related to land classification, urban development plans, the condition of the property, maintenance costs, and community obligations. Your agent and lawyer can advise you on the appropriate level of due diligence in any particular case. However never accept advice to forego due diligence entirely, especially not when purchasing resale from a private individual. Due diligence can involve some or all of the following checks:
Property Registry Report
Obtained from the Property Registry (Registro de Propiedad) for a small fee this certificate – know as a Nota Simple Informativa – states who owns the property and indicates if there are any debts and/or charges, such as a mortgage, attached to the property.
Title Deeds
Check that the seller has the title deeds, know as the Escritura Publica.
Official Plan of the Property
It may be prudent to confirm exactly what is included in the property, and the urban classification of the land. An official plan of the property is contained in the zoning plans (plan urbanistico) which can be obtained from the planning department (Departamento de Urbanismo) of the town hall. The plan urbanistico also shows the development plans for the land around a property. When buying out of town property that is not part of a planned residential estate (urbanizacion) it is important to know what will be built around you in the coming years.
Property Survey
There is always the option of having a chartered surveyor evaluate the property. This is advisable if there are any doubts as to the condition of the property. A survey can also be carried out on new build property to confirm that it is delivered in the condition promised.
Tax Check
The seller can be asked for the latest municipal tax certificate to demonstrate that there are no unpaid municipal taxes associated with the property which would become a problem for the buyer. The municipal tax is known as the Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles, or IBI for short. For resale property a check can also be made on the local capital gains tax (Plusvalía) that will become due when the property changes hands. In theory this tax is paid by the seller, however sometimes it is assumed by the buyer. It is important to know how much it is and who will pay it before committing.
Utilities
When buying resale property it may be prudent to ask the seller to demonstrate that all utility bills are up to date, and to specify in the deposit or private contract (if you enter into any such contracts) that they will be up to date at the time of granting of the public deed of sale.
Community by-laws and fées
When buying property that is part of a community of owners (Comunidad de Propietarios) it is important to know what the by-laws governing the workings of the community are, and what the financial obligations are per period. A copy of the community by-laws can be obtained from the land registry. It may also be necessary, in the case of resale, to obtain confirmation from the president or secretary of the community that the previous owner is up to date with community bills.
Developer insurance
Developers that sell property under construction are legally required to have a bank guarantee or insurance policy that protects any payments you make to the developer before the property is completed. This ensures that you get your money back if for whatever reason the developer fails before completion. If there are any doubts about the developer it may be necessary to see proof that the appropriate insurance is in place. Note that developers are also required by law to hold an insurance policy which guarantees for 10 years eventual damages occurring due to defects affecting ground work, supports, beams, reinforcement bars, retaining walls, or other structural elements. As has already been stated, each due diligence should be considered on a case by case basis, and should be managed by a lawyer. Depending upon the circumstances some or all of the checks may be required, along with further checks in special cases. Your lawyer will advise you as to what is appropriate in your case.
How much deposit is required to secure a property?
As a general rule, a 10% deposit is required, although this may vary, especially with new or off-plan developments. If you need time to organise payment of the deposit, it may be possible to reserve the property with a smaller amount.
Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Lanzarote?
There is no obligation to use legal representation, but we at Asor-Estate strongly recommend that you always use the services of an English-speaking Spanish lawyer. Good legal advice will ensure the safety of your investment.
Can I choose my own lawyer?
Of course. We recommend an independent and reputable lawyer who speaks English and is based here on Lanzarote, but you can choose your own legal counsel if you prefer. The important point is that you find a professional that you are happy with, and that your interests are always protected.
Will I own the property freehold?
Yes.
Do I need to make a Spanish will?
There is no obligation, but it is advisable to make a Spanish will because otherwise there are complications and probate may take up more time than otherwise necessary. Your lawyer will advise you on all aspects of drawing up a Spanish will.
How long does it take to complete?
Typically, it takes 6 – 8 weeks, but this timeframe can be lengthened or shortened to whatever suits both the buyer and seller.
How do I open a Spanish bank account?
We at Asor-Estate will help you open a bank account and introduce you to a friendly bank manager. You will need a photocopy of your passport to open the account.
If I want to do some work on my property, do I need to apply for planning permission?
If you are simply renovating the interior, for example if you want to change your bathroom suite or kitchen, it is not necessary. However if you wish to extend your property, raise a boundary wall, install a swimming pool or carry out any type of construction that changes, increases or reduces the physical dimensions of your house (and walls, garage, terrace etc.) you need to apply for planning permission. We can advise you on legal requirements and handle the necessary paperwork for you. In all cases you should always find out before you begin any work.
Can I apply for a mortgage with a Spanish bank in Lanzarote?
Yes, in fact Spanish banks are very keen to lend to foreign buyers and offer very attractive interest rates.
How much do I need to allow on top of purchase price to cover stamp duty and legal costs?
You need to allow 10% to cover everything. This includes 6% stamp duty, notarial costs, land registry, lawyer’s fee, various minor taxes and all paperwork. If you have any questions, consult us at Asor-Estate , or alternatively your lawyer will answer any questions you may have.
What is an Escritura?
This translates as title deed in English. It contains the essential details of the property, such as the legal owner, registered plot size and built area, and whether the property is urban or rural. When you purchase a property, make sure you always receive your original escritura, and keep it in a safe place!
What is a Nota Simple?
This is the land registry search that is performed on the title deed of the house you are interested in buying. It is also known as a certificate of non-encumbrance. When you decide on a property, it is necessary to request information on the property from the land registry, in order to verify that the person who says they own the property is indeed the true registered owner. It also tells us whether they are the sole owner or the property is co-owned. If there are any mortgages on the property they will show up on the nota simple, as will any liens, encumbrances or embargos. We at Asor-Estate obtain the nota simple on your behalf and check that everything is in order. Your lawyer will also need to see the nota simple before allowing the transaction to proceed any further. In short, the nota simple document provides a mechanism to help safeguard your purchase.
Do I need to personally be in Lanzarote to sign for completion?
No, it is not necessary. You may grant your lawyer power of attorney to sign on your behalf and save yourself at least several hours waiting for your turn in the notary’s office. However it is particularly suitable for people who do not want or cannot travel to Lanzarote simply to complete. In this way, when you do travel to Lanzarote, the transaction has already completed and you can concentrate on enjoying your new property with a minimum of fuss.
What living costs do I have to pay if I own property in Lanzarote?
Water and electricity are metred, so you pay for what you use. You will pay annual rates or property tax (IBI – Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles) and annual rubbish collection fee (basura). Both of these are paid to your local town hall. If you live on a complex or estate with shared facilities and communal areas, you will probably pay a community fee. We at Asor-Estate will tell you all the costs that apply to ownership of your chosen property before you make your decision to buy. Your lawyer will handle transfer of utilities into your name and will set up direct debits from your bank account to pay all bills. If you have a Spanish mortgage your bank will require you to have house insurance, which is recommendable even if you don’t have a mortgage.
Lanzarote is the eastern most of the Canary Islands, in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 125 km off the coast of Africa and 1,000 km from the Iberian Peninsula.
The island is part of the province of Las Palmas, and is divided into seven municipalities:
Arrecife:
Arrecife is the modern capital and port. This is where half the inhabitants live and work and the place where the most comprehensive shops are to be found – although, don’t raise your expectations too high, dear shopaholics. Paying no attention to the tourist, the capital is strictly functional, although the harbour does offer quite a pleasant aspect. At the heart of the town is San Ginés Church, worth a visit for those to whom such things as atmosphere, religion or peace appeal. Being the capital, this is where most of the busses terminate and stem from, but be aware that the timing of such busses is much more concerned with how villagers might wish to get to and from work than how you, the tourist, might rattle around the island. Apart from this and taxis for short distances, the organized tours or hire cars offer the best means of transport. A clue as to the nature and ethic of the native people can be had from the bus timetables that have three different modes: workdays, Sundays and festivals. Está bien!
Geography
Altitude:
Lowest: Atlantic Ocean
Centre: 30 m Postal code: 35000
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Haria:
lends its name to a wider municipality that basically encompasses the northern wedge of Lanzarote, but the village itself is home to only around 2,000 inhabitants.
It lies nestled in the aptly named Valley of 1,000 Palms which is surrounded by the island’s tallest mountain range — the Risco de Famara, which stands at around 670 metres at it’s highest point.
This location begins to explain why the region stays so green, as the altitude attracts cloud and overnight condensation from which the plant life below can draw water. But this alone still doesn’t account for the proliferation of palm groves here.
Indeed, much earthier influences account for the valleys fertility.
During the 17th and 18th centuries villagers celebrated the birth of a new baby by planting palms — one for a girl and two for a boy, possibly in reaction to the burning of most of Haria’s trees and plants by marauding pirates during raids in the 1570’s.
Either way, this politically incorrect planting policy has now created an incredible spectacle that is one of Lanzarote’s most stunning sights.
Demographics
The population is 4,741 ([1], 2003), some of whom live on the island of Graciosa. The total land area of the municipality is 106.58 km², giving a population density of 44.48/km²; population growth from 2001 to 2003 stood at 9.62%.
Geography
The west of the municipality is largely mountainous, with much of the western coastline rising steeply a little way inland. Numerous miradors (viewpoints) on this high ground offer some of the island’s most spectacular views, the most well known being theMirador del Rio which is a popular tourist attraction. To the southeast the land is low-lying and largely used for agriculture, with many small beach resorts along the coast. The northeast of the municipality is largely uninhabited, having been buried approximately 3000 years ago by the eruption of the Montaña Corona which formed the inhospitable Malpais de la Corona. This eruption also produced extensive hollow lava tunnels called jameos, some of which have been developed into two of the island’s most-visited geological attractions: the Cueva de los Verdes and the Jameos del Agua.
View from the LZ-10 road between Teguise and Haría, which is visible in the distance
Villa Lola y Juan has been restored and converted into a rural hotel. It offers superior hotel…
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San Bartolome:
San Bartolomé is the geographical centre of the island of Lanzarote and an important agricultural region where vegetables grow in the sandy “jable” soil, unique to Lanzarote.
The main crops that grow in the region are sweet potatoes, watermelons and squash.
San Bartolomé is one of the seven municipals of Lanzarote and therefore has a town hall, ayuntamiento, headed by the local mayor. The main town, also called San Bartolomé, is of traditional canarian style with buildings of interest that include the Casa Mayor Guerra, the 18th century home of former military Governor of Lanzarote.
Also close to the town hall itself is the Tanit Ethnic Museum, which contains a display of working and cultural life of Lanzarote over the past centuries.
On the outskirts of the town one will encounter the wonderful home of the late César Manrique. The beautiful building now houses a foundation, Fundacion Cesar Manrique, keeping alive the wonderful legacy of a truly brilliant artist.
Historic Rural Lanzarote Hotel, Renovated 1998, Elegant rooms, Internet, Restaurant, Car Park
The hotel was built in 1806 and completely renovated in 1998. The hotel has succeeded in maintaining its rural character reflecting the atmosphere on Lanzarote at the beginning of the 19th century. The hotel offers a total of 1 single room, 5 double rooms and 2 suites on 2 floors. Amongst the hotel facilities count a foyer with 24-hour reception, a hire safe, a library, a public Internet terminal and restaurant. A beautiful inner courtyard and an extensive estate also feature at this hotel. Those arriving by car may make use of the car park or garage Room and laundry services are also available.
The finca is situated on the outskirts of the winegrowing village of Mozaga, the geographical and rural centre of Lanzarote. There are countless local plants to be found in the hotel grounds. In 9 km, guests will reach the beach.
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Teguise
Teguise is the old capital of the island although, today, it is barely more than a village. Early islanders chose to live in this elevated position so that they could look out for slave traders and pirates. It gave them the chance to flee to the volcanic caves in the north where the could hide. It contains the island’s most elegant buildings and has the most atmosphere although, its transformation into a giant and sprawling market on the one day a week that it truly vibrates makes it a place of contrasts. Do go, if you like to haggle. There is not a a great deal to see when this town is quiet – and it impossible to see when it is not quiet. Locals, however, still regard this as the island’s true capital and relegate Arrecife to port and shopping status. Teguise was a town that knew nobility and gave birth to much of the Canarian folk culture, including its unique instrument, the timple. (England, by the way, has a similar culture, having given birth to the tipple: music to many ears.) The main square is marked by an ancient, white-capped church, Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe; thankfully it is also known as San Miguel!
Teguise was a town that knew nobility and gave birth to much of the Canarian folk culture
Teguise is certainly worth a visit and, because transportation on this island is very much focussed on the need of the locals as opposed to the visitor, a Sunday visit is perhaps the most practical. It is easy, enough, after all, to flee from the hubbub of the market stalls and enter a cool sanctuary for a drink or snack: the way to find true character-building. Try the local wine, for example, and wonder at how they ever grow vines here. As for food, you’d be surprised how the traditional ‘English breakfast’ of bacon, egg and all things cholesterol, has infiltrated into the farthest reaches of the eating establishments on this island. Who said the UK doesn’t export much these days?
Farmlands dominate the rest of the municipality. César Manrique was born in the area. The insect of the island is the cochineal which carmine, a dye is extracted from.
The municipality also comprises a number of neighbouring islands including Graciosa, Alegranza, Roque del Este, Roque del Oeste and Montaña Clara.
Geography
Location:
Latitude: 29.05 (29°3′) N
Longitude: 13.55 (13°33′) W
Altitude:
Lowest: Atlantic Ocean
Centre: 360 m
Postal code: 35530
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Tias
The village of Tias is one of the oldest on the island which in spite of the influx of foreign residents has maintained its local character. As well as the long term residents from mainly northern Europe there is a growing number of holidaymakers slowly finding their way to Tias, especially with the appeal of the new golf course in the municipality.
The village’s history ca
n be traced back to the time of the native Guanches people before the Spanish took control of the land. Volcanic eruptions in the early eighteenth century forced farmers from nearby villages off their land and some resettled in Tias which promoted agricultural development in its environs. Together with the prosperous fishing industry the local economy of Tias became relatively wealthy. This growing importance of Arrecife denied Tias the opportunity to enjoy further economic growth and the village experienced significant decline as many workers were attracted to the capital. Tourism proved the saving grace for the village as the first package holiday tourists arrived at the nearby airport to stay in the new resort of Puerto del Carmen in the late 1970s. Today you’ll find a pleasant mix of the old and the new as this attractive village comes to terms with its new role as a permanent home to many foreigners and a popular place to visit for the masses of sunseekers arriving all year round to enjoy the idyllic climate of Lanzarote.
If you’re in Lanzarote during the month of June you’re in luck as Tias celebrates two great festivals, the Festival of San Antonio (1st-13th) and San Juan (20th-24th) when no expense is spared on fireworks and bonfires. Numerous cultural events take place during the year including musical performances in the local theatre and in the village bars. The village holds quite an appeal for writers and artists including the Portuguese writer Jose Saramago who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1998.
The main industry, by far, is tourism. Lanzarote’s largest tourist resort, Puerto del Carmen, is entirely in the borough of Tías, and was the location of the first hotels ever built on the island.
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Tinajo
Yaiza
Lanzarote’s climate ranges from mild to hot during the year with temperatures in the summer ranging between 30 degrees C and 35 degrees C during the day and about 20 degrees C at night. It’s winter daytime temperature is between 20 degrees C and 25 degrees C and the nighttime temperature is between 13 degrees C and 16 degrees C.
The island has it’s own international airport, Arrecife Airport, through which some 5.5 million passengers travel every year making tourism the mainstay of the islands economy for the past 40 years.
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The British constitute the largest group of non-Spanish nationals living on Lanzarote. According to research recently released by the Cabildo de Lanzarote.
The figures, which were compiled by Spain´s National Institute of Statistics reveal that 5,069 Britons are officially registered as residents on the island. Followed by Colombians – with 4804 residents – Germans with 3186 – and the Moroccans with 3,065.
————————————————————— In a double dose of good news for Lanzarote´s tourist industry low cost flights operator Monarch has announced the addition of extra flights to Lanzarote across this Christmas and New Year period in order to cope with an increase in demand. Whilst newly formed airline Kiss Flights has confirmed that Lanzarote will be one of their main flight destinations starting for the summer season of 2009.Monarch has already up weighted their flights to theIsland of
Fire throughout October in order to meet an increase in demand. With extra services available every Thursday from Gatwick airport. And now they will also be laying on extra flights across the festive period too.
According to Monarch´s Liz Savage:” The additional flights are great news for Monarch customers looking to get away this Christmas. Early indicators show that our customers are considering the Christmas getaway as important as ever and are continuing to snap up Monarch’s low fares in their droves. With 64 additional flights being added into the flying programme offering in excess of 12,000 further seats, getting away for Christmas has never been easier”.
The extra flights are also great news for the owners of villas and holiday apartments in Lanzarote. Not least as they come at a time when some airlines are reducing their services to other destinations. And they will de departing from major UK airports such as Manchester, Birmingham and Gatwick.
Elsewhere newly formed flight only operators Kiss have evolved from the ashes of Freedom Flights – which was the flights only arm of XL Holidays. Under the aegis if Gatwick based flight brokers Meridian Aviation.From May 2009 they will be offering a once weekly service to Lanzarote from Gatwick with a scheduled departure time of 05.00. With return services leaving Arrecife airport at 10.05. Seat costs at the time of writing were coming in at around £200 for a return in May on the Kiss Flights website. Both announcements will be welcomed by owners of holiday property in Lanzarote. Who expect to benefit from an upsurge in business from independent travellers and tourists.
esto es, cuando los precios alcanzan el mínimo antes del rebote, sino que se ha de considerar el momento en que todas las señales técnicas comienzan a alertar de que la caída se va frenando.
