We can feel it in the air: Christmas is right around the corner. We are enchanted by the millions of beautiful Christmas lights, decorating our streets. We can smell the roasted chestnuts, and see people gathering around the warm fire. Not only the Christmas Spirit, but also the winter temperatures have started to kick in. We feel it, something is changing.
Embracing Change
So, now that the festive season envelops us in warmth, it also triggers reflection within us. We at Villas & Fincas consider this time of year an inspirational one to ponder what we have been through and what we might expect. This year, we would like to consider the Theme of Embracing Change.
In every corner of our lives and surroundings, significant transformations have emerged, shaping our world in unimaginable ways. Particularly here at home, in Andalusia, we witness a profound evolution that speaks to the heart of what it means to embrace change. And don’t get me wrong, embracing change is not about forgetting our past. No. Our past plays a key role in embracing change. It’s about keeping parts of the old, and interweaving it with something new. And, if you are capable of doing that, then what is going to stop you from achieving greatness?
New? Old? Or Both?
One of the most striking changes that we are all embracing is in architecture. The Luxury Country Properties we represent reflect a harmonious blend of traditional Andalusian charm. Think about the beautiful hand painted tiles and the traditional terracotta floors. The round arches, creating a sense of tranquility. Not to forget the art of woodwork, whether in the beams in the ceilings, or on counters, furniture…
What we have started to see in the last decade especially is that, often, it is no longer enough to just embrace the traditional Andalusian designs. Our foreign clients are used to a different level of comfort. Hence, nowadays, many of our traditional cortijos and haciendas have seamlessly incorporated a beautiful contemporary design.
More and more we see the growing demand of houses with quality finishings. Whether it is in the appliances the property comes with, or the quality build, the quality materials, the quality of the furnishing. Today, clients are less fond of the “purely rustic” style, and need a certain level of luxury. So, at the end of the day, it is mixing the beauty and the aesthetics of the old, with the luxurious comfort and brightness of the new, that have formed a completely new product. A product that is shockingly high in demand!
Take this example: delicate tile work, wooden beams, and sprawling terraces—are now beautifully interwoven with sustainable materials and innovative layouts. This transformation not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also aligns with our evolving values of sustainability and efficiency. The call for homes that respect the environment, while offering luxury, has never been clearer. By embracing change in architecture, we have unintentionally created the product of the future.
Cortjios or Developments?
On another note, it’s not only the properties inland Andalusia that are experiencing a metamorphosis. Another fascinating change that we have to embrace is on our coastline. The coastal developments along our picturesque shores are transforming the way we think about leisure and lifestyle. As each year brings new enhancements, we see more than just the construction of properties.
We are witnessing another level of luxury living that was not as predominant before. We can see this in the designs, for example. Who would have thought we would ever have branded residences? Today, if you want to live in a Lamborghini residence, you can! The list goes on and on, you can choose from an Aston Martin residence, Bulgari, Armani, Gucci… you name it.
But on another level, the developments that are emerging are also embracing other essential factors that play a huge role in our society nowadays. Developments now want to create a sense of community, in which holistic living is prioritised. What does this mean? Today, rather than just a lobby and an elevator as “shared spaces”, we have co-woking spaces, community lounge areas, a community café or bar. A community pool, gymnasium…
These kinds of facilities are now being incorporated in the designs of new developments because we understand the importance of the community, rather than the individual alone. The open and bright spaces, filled with natural plants and organic designs, with their inclusive facilities, ensure that every resident can enjoy a harmonious lifestyle, fostering connections with nature and each other.
Some Things Stay the Same
As much as we ought to embrace change, simultaneously, some things don’t have to change at all. If we look deep into our hearts and go back to the basics, then you will realise this.
Since the beginning of our family company, there is one thing that our clients always, always, always, had in common. And they still do. Everyone that comes to Andalucia to invest in a Luxury Country Property, is looking for a home where they can disconnect, unwind, relax and enjoy. They are looking for some paradise where they can become one with theirselves again. A home where they can connect with nature, friends and family. They want to go to a place, whether nearer the coast or on top of a mountain, where it’s quiet. Where the only thing you hear are the chirping birds, and the breeze caressing the leaves of the olive or citrus trees.
Now, why on Earth would want to change that? Here in Andalusia everyone is reminded of what the joy of life is supposed to be. For some, pure joy might be painting the view in your own garden. For others it might be being able to go for a long walk in the middle of forest. Others might even hop in the car just to go to the local chiringuito to enjoy a delicious freshly caught fish on the BBQ. Sardinas al espeto? Or Doradas al espeto? Just say yes to all!
So my question for you is: What gives you most joy, and how are you achieving it? Think about it, and go chase your Dreams! Find your environment that will nurture the lifestyle that you want to live.
A Transforming Market
As we navigate these exciting times, the Luxury Country Property Market itself is experiencing a significant transformation. Prices are the direct reflection of a changing market. Currently there is an unbalanced ratio between supply and demand. The demand is too high for the quality product, and the market cannot supply it fast enough.
In the over 2 decades that we have worked in the Luxury Andalusian country property market, we have always seen fluctuations in prices and demand. Especially our market is one that works in waves, we know this. Developments come and go. But, a country property can easily be lived in by the same family for 20 years or more. So, when these properties do come to the market, they are gone within a blink of an eye to become someone else’s “forever” home.
The prices keep rising, and so does the demand for these beautiful Country Homes. We have seen an approximate 30% increase in the value of country properties in the last few years. Our question is, when will it stop?
Truthfully, we don’t know. The only thing that we do know is that it’s not too late yet. We feel honoured that property owners choose us to be the representatives of their country homes. And trust me, there still are beautiful and harmonious luxury properties entering the market. Ready to become your new Home.
Is There a Negative Consequence to Embracing Change?
Some will jump to the conclusion quite fast that there indeed is a negative consequence to change. Change causes fear, this also is innate to us, human beings. Change forces the unknown onto us, creating disorder, lack of control and insecurity. Often, there is resistance when there is change because we don’t know where the outcome will lead us. We don’t know what we might loose if something changes.
But, what if embracing change impulses us to be better? What if we overcome the fear and become stronger and more intelligent than ever? What if that sense of uncertainty opens up doors and windows that you had discarded before? And what if change is the one and only driving factor that pushes us to innovate. What if change is the most powerful resource we have to think creatively, and paint a new world filled with colours? What if, rather than losing something, you win something greater, because of change?
Keeping Up with Change
At Villas & Fincas, we believe that embracing change is essential for progress. We encourage you to adopt a positive outlook, welcoming the uncertainty that comes with transformation. By “going with the flow,” we find that the opportunities on the horizon become clearer and the journey more enjoyable.
For us, 2024 was quite something. This past year probably for us was the definition of turmoil. Our team had to be stronger than ever. We had to be resilient, to think on our feet and make the most of every opportunity that came on our path. We experienced a different type of demand coming from our clients, both buyers and sellers. The market truly was all-over-the-place.
But here we are, ending the year, reflecting, as always. And we have come to the conclusion that because of all the abrupt changes we had to endure, we have a bright new outlook on our company for the years to come. We already look forward to what 2025 holds in the cards us.
Time to Celebrate
As you celebrate this Christmas, reflect on the changes you have witnessed and how it has made you grow. Think about how change was what empowered you to live the future life of your dreams. The future life that is your reality right now.
Let’s embrace change Together. With an open mind, curiosity and confidence we leap into the future, hand in hand. Knowing, that every day, every change, brings us closer to realising our dreams.
Our warmest wishes for a joyous holiday season and a prosperous new year filled with possibilities, and change!
Sincerely,
Your Team
Villas & Fincas Country Properties
Danielle Ernstsen | 18th December 2024
