Apres-SkiWritten by Roger Munns
European tax haven Andorra enjoys same fiscal benefits as better known Monaco, adding to property demand from those looking for residency in a tax shelter as well as traditional ski chalet buyers who flock to country between December and April each year. With end of ski season last month many ski resorts in Europe have closed up shop until early December with overseas property owners having little prospect of rental income in summer months. But tiny Andorra, nestled between France and Spain in Pyrenees and sixteenth smallest country in world, is increasingly attracting out of season tourists and property owners are seeing a rise in overall occupancy levels and return on their investment. Cycling, pony trekking, and hillwalking are some of pursuits attracting tourists and potential property owners heading for mountains outside of Andorra’s ski season. Andorra’s capital la Vella is full of duty free shops, restaurants, clubs and bars. Coupled with mountain scenery and lakes Andorra has seen a rise in number of out of season tourists in recent years, and letting season extend from just winter months to include spring and summer.
| | Buying & Renting a Holiday Home in the SunWritten by Darren Cronian
For those who think buying a holiday home, to rent, is an easy way to make a profit on your investment you should be aware that it isn’t as easy as it sounds. To start with, there are over 500,000 holiday home owners in UK - and most of them rent out their property. You can expect high out goings, management commission and fees, insurance bills, and usual household bills.For anyone considering buying a holiday home, to rent, these six pieces of advice will be invaluable. Location Choosing a good location is vital,not only because you want a location which is popular with holidaymakers, but also one which is not overly competitive. Destinations like Florida and Spain have, over years, become highly competitive with thousands of holiday villas available for rent. It is important that you look for facilities close to home - restaurants, bars or shops, particularly since holidaymakers will be catering for themselves. Type of accommodation Think about your target customers. If you are targeting families, then buy a two or three bedroom holiday villa, near popular family attractions. If it is couples or small groups you are hoping to attract then look at buying a two bedroom apartment near shops, bars and restaurants, beaches, and golf courses. For smaller groups, or groups of adults “space” will be less of an issue. Buying a one bedroom apartment will restrict you to couples, or two adults only. Huge five bedroom houses may sound good, but for short haul destinations like Spain, a three bedroom holiday home will suit most holidaymakers, and large houses may put people off renting your home. Property Management Employ a management company or be prepared for hard work. Managing a holiday home involves home repairs, passing keys to holidaymakers, changing linen when holidaymaker departs, garden up-keep, plus dealing with emergencies such as visitors locked out. Bear in mind that most property management companies charge commission for getting holidaymakers to book your home, instead take responsibility of promoting your holiday home on yourself.
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