Words by Judith Baker
The Costa Del Sol has long been a favourite for second home owners and tourists alike, thanks to its world-class golf courses, lovely beaches, great climate and sophisticated restaurants and nightlife.
Marbella is the Costa del Sol’s jewel in the crown and is the ideal setting for stunning homes. Now, Pacaso, with its unique luxury co-ownership model, is looking to make acquiring a home in Marbella accessible and enjoyable and it has some outstanding villas on its books including the luxurious Villa Vida and Villa Aire.
Villa Vida
Villa Vida is a breath-taking house, a stunning piece of modern architecture which combines luxury with clean lines and bright, open spaces, drawing inspiration from contemporary California living as well as the local pueblo blanco traditional style. The property is arranged over three levels. Above, an upper storey comprising a main bedroom with bathroom including free-standing bathtub, along with an exclusive sundeck, and two further bedrooms with floor-to-ceiling French windows which give onto a wide terrace with stunning views.
Villa Vida price: $667,865 for 1/8 ownership
Whole home price: $3,902,345
Location: Avenida Del Generalife, 53, Marbella, Málaga
Villa Aire
Villa Aire is another exquisite property located in Aloha, an exclusive community in the prime Nueva Andalucía area. This contemporary villa has been built to the highest standards, offering the ultimate Marbella lifestyle with beautiful spaces for indoor-outdoor living.
The villa incorporates luxury, open interior spaces, entertainment, and outdoor relaxation areas, while desirable Marbella amenities including lively bars, coffee shops, restaurants, shops and supermarkets are close by. An impressive hallway welcomes you into a spacious and open-plan living area, with high-quality finishes and chic interiors, and the airy living spaces feature double-height ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Villa Aire price: $832,924 for 1/8 ownership
Whole home price: $4,958,460
Location: Av. Valle Del Golf 138, Marbella, Málaga 29660
How the scheme works
Pacaso is pioneering a new category of real estate, called co-ownership. Pacaso curates luxury listings in top second home destinations around the world and offers buyers one eighth to half ownership. Founded by former Zillow executives Austin Allison and Spencer Rascoff, Pacaso has secured more than $215 million in growth financing.
The amount of time you can use your home directly corresponds with your purchase i.e. six months of the year for half ownership and it’s just like a normal property purchase – you can sell your Pacaso, either through the app platform or on the open market at any time. Co-owning a home is a growing trend and represents a more responsible ownership model helping families purchase and enjoy their property.
Marvellous Marbella
At the foot of the Sierra Blanca and with a distinctive coastline, Marbella is one of Spain’s most popular towns yet still retains an exclusive air with Michelin starred restaurants and top hotels including Nobu and the famous Marbella Club Hotel.
Old Marbella Town is said to be one of the most authentic Spanish towns with its unspoilt whitewashed Moorish architecture, cobbled streets packed with colourful shops and pretty churches. Go shopping for silver jewellery and gorgeous glassware and enjoying drinks in the shade of pretty Plaza de Los Naranjos or the Orange Square, make a refreshing stop. Lunch at The Farm with its brightly painted furniture and bohemian atmosphere with organic tapas and cocktails, while prestigious golf courses surround and the marina at Puerto Banus attracts yachts from all over the world. You can rub shoulders with glamorous A-listers or relax in your own haven of tranquillity.
A good time to buy in Spain for Britons
Brexit has meant that the length of time that Britons can stay has reduced to 90 days in a 180-day period, however that will still see you through the worst of the winter months.
There is also the option of applying for a TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) residence card if you are thinking of retiring. Or if you are spending over £425,000 you can apply for a Golden Visa which has no limits on how long you can stay. These types of visas are also applicable to the entire family and dependents.
With good weather, energy efficient buildings, great lifestyle and the chance to work from home (or swimming pool) in the sun, now is a good time to consider a Spanish second home.
