Snowbirds
Snowbirds in Florida
Isn’t it amazing how quickly things have changed for Snowbirds?
For decades Florida has been the ‘go-to destination‘ for thousands of snowbirds in search of some winter sun. However, it now looks like the tide has changed, and they are looking to abandon their winter nesting habits.
For many of you, sitting through the long cold winter is an unbearable thought. You do, however have options!
Here is an alternate reason from seasoned Canadians in an interview with CNN. You may not be Canadian, but the points remain valid.
What about a European migration for you snowbirds?
Over the course of the last few years, southern Spain has garnered immense attention from snowbirds, and it must be said a growing numbers of Americans. The amount of online interest has increased, as has the volume of people making purchases.
- Over 280 days of sun per year
- A 3 course ‘Menu del Dia’ lunchtime meal from around 10 euros throughout most of the country
- International airports offering access to everywhere in Europe, within a few 2-3 hours
- Easy access to the African continent. Morocco is only 2.5 hours away, and yes you can take your car.
- Affordability of purchase
- Affordability of annual expenses
- Thousands of years of culture and history
- Some of the best golf courses on the planet
- Lots of marinas and ports
- One of the healthiest diets in the world, comprised of fresh fruits and nuts, freshly caught fish and some of the most tender meats which have been reared ecologically.
- A walking mentality, so you can leave your vehicle at home
- A wonderful appreciation of nature. We have hundreds of miles of nature walks and mountain treks.
- Excellent public transport
- Excellent health care services
- An extremely lively entertainment scene for all ages.
- A stable political environment
Malaga and the Costa del Sol was voted in 2023 by Forbes as the best place to live in the world.
(forbes.com)
The World’s Best City To Live
In 2023 Malaga, Spain was voted as the number city to live and work in the world. But not only that, it was also listed as the number one destination for friendliness, climate, working environment and leisure amenities.
Expats living in Malaga also raved about the overall safety, the great public transportation network and the social life. As one of the oldest cities in the world, Malaga is known for it’s rich history and cultural scene,
Only a couple of hours from Malaga you can go snow skiing at the Sierra Nevada, near Granada, during the winter months. In fact, you can ski in the morning and relax on the beach in the afternoon. Everything is within touching distance.
The Costa del Sol – the perfect place for snowbirds
The ‘Costa del Sol’ translates as the ‘Sun Coast’ for very good reason. We have over 280 days of sun on average each year, with mild winters and hot summers.
With a stunning backdrop of mountains overlooking the Mediterranean, all along the coastline, your choice of properties with a view is immense. Unlike Florida where the only views you will get are a sea or lake view, the Malaga coast has a plethora of views from which to choose from.
What we do not have is:
humidity, which can be problematic; or
hurricanes which means that your family will not need to cancel travel plans or leave quickly; also your home insurance is sensibly priced, and readily available.
So you have now read the ‘fluff’ about all that the Malaga area has to offer. Now let’s take a direct look at some financial comparisons.
Comparison of Purchase Costs between Florida and Spain
The above comparison is based on a 3/4 bedroom home with a private pool and garden/yard area.
The property will be legally allowed to be rented out , when you are not visiting. All you need to do is apply for a license and employ a management company to deal with the meet and greet and cleaning etc.
The Holiday Season in Malaga is essentially from mid-March through to mid-October. Peak season is late June through to early September. There is also a very strong ‘Golfing’ season from October through to May in various towns along the Costa del Sol, but not so much in Malaga City itself.
Comparison of Annual Running Costs between Florida and Spain
Property taxes in Spain are essentially ‘pennies on the dollar’ when compared to Florida. The HOA costs are far lower, but please bear in mind that most communities will NOT have the full blown resort facilities of some Florida communities.
Utility bills are less expensive than Florida. As there is no humidity, there is less of a requirement for A/C use. water is cheap, as is bottled gas should your property need it.
Comparison of Reform/Renovation Costs between Florida and Spain
For those of you, who like a ‘project’, the cost of renovating a property in Malaga and the Costa del Sol is mere ‘chump change’ compared to Florida. Labour is cheaper, quality standards are higher and don’t forget that most quality tiles are manufactured in Europe.
You will still need to apply for the relevant building/reform license, but the process is typically straightforward and quick.
An ‘ Obra Menor’ license for a basic renovation can be issued within a day or so.
An ‘Obra Mayor’ license will need architects drawing and costings, but should still be issued within a few weeks at most
Whether you purchase a new build, a home in good condition, or one which requires a renovation, on the whole your savings will be huge.
So what can we offer you snowbirds
For over 25 years we have been selling Orlando vacation homes to Canadian, Europeans and American snowbirds. What you are probably unaware of is that we have also been selling properties on the Costa del Sol since the late 1990’s.
Our network of professionals have earned the reputation of:
- taking quality care of our clients – regardless of budget
- providing excellent advice and assistance
- taking care of property management and rentals
- sourcing ‘value for money’ quotes for renovations and furnishings
- providing ‘First Class’ investment advice and services
A dedicated team of our network, specialises in High Network Individuals from the entertainment and sporting world, through to industrialists and entrepreneurs.
Take a look at our Spanish side of the business and see what you are missing. Visit CU-inSpain
CU-inSpain is a boutique property consultant which specialises in finding the right property to meet your requirements. Whether you are looking for a new build property, a piece of history with a view, an investment or a property, upon which you can ‘put your own stamp’, we will locate it for you.
All of our commissions are included in the sales price, so other than your purchase costs, which will typically be about 10%, the price you see will be the price you pay. Well, unless we negotiate a great deal for you, which we are great at doing!
Should you already be a property owner in Orlando or Central Florida, and you are ready to take the next step, in case prices fall, we can list your property for you. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
