Italian
Property Specialists
Casa Travella
Premier
NEWS
Election
PR May 2010
Coalition
Positive or Negative for Italian property Market
Linda
Travella of Casa Travella has seen an increase in Italian property
sales in the weeks leading to the election.
Linda says
‘ I was not surprised as the £ became stronger and was at a 10 month
high against the € until last Thursday, even if now it is weaker ,
it is still higher than in the first quarter of this year.’
A coalition
government does not necessarily mean weakness. Germany has had a
coalition in the majority of years since the Second World War and
has always been looked upon as having a stable economy. Their
current government includes the Liberals.
Entrepreneur James Caan, commented on Election night that he did not
see a ‘hung parliament’ as being as negative as is currently being
suggested, as long as the leaders form a government in the first few
days after the results.
The new
agreement to help Greece by the EU and IMF will also bring further
stability to the markets.
It is an
excellent time to buy a property in Italy as prices have ‘bottomed
out’
Linda
Travella has been selling property in Italy since 1987 and is known
as an expert on the Italian market.
www.casatravella.com
www.casatravellapremier.com
01322 660988
MARCH/APRIL
2010
ITALY IS FLAT OUT WITH 'BOTTOM
FEEDERS'
PHOTO CAPTION
This exceptional villa is located in Palau, and benefits from
magnificent views over the Archipelago at Maddalena.
The spacious villa provides some 200m2 of accommodation and sits in
about 7 acres of land.
The main Sardinia style villa has a spacious lounge area
incorporating full length windows to the patio offering extensive
views and an open fireplace. Externally, there is a covered gazebo
with dining facilities and a corner oven for baking.
In the grounds, there is a swimming pool which benefits from
beautiful vistas over the surrounding countryside
and towards to the sea at Maddalena. A truly beautiful property at a
bargain price!
Price just reduced from €1.700.000 to €1.100.000 A saving of 600,000
Euros!
The bottoming out of the property market has been instrumental in
launching a new breed of property buyer; the ‘bottom feeder’! Bottom
feeders, although not attributed with the most endearing of names,
have proved to be one of the most influential investors in the
market place today. With property prices still woefully short of
their perceived values just 18 months ago, it has opened the doors
to many investors.
Linda Travella of Casa Travella, an expert on Italian property since
1987 says, “Properties which have bottomed out in the market place
are proving to be very popular. Primarily the cash rich investors,
who maintained their ‘cash is king’ ethos during the recession, are
the biggest investors, opting now to purchase whilst prices remain
favourable. However there is also a constant stream of serious
investors who just 18 months ago would not have been able to afford
many of the properties available today. With prices at their lowest
for years, many of these buyers are taking advantage of a once in a
lifetime opportunity and purchasing their dream homes with far
smaller mortgages than they would have needed in 2008. Whilst the
recession has undoubtedly had an enormous affect on worldwide
property prices, Italy has maintained a far more stable market.
Our current enquiries are more than encouraging and it just goes to
show that each market whether good or bad has its specific type of
investor and agents the world over need to be able to identify the
requirements of these groups in order to maximise their
opportunities and ultimately their sales.”
Below are some further excellent investment opportunities from Casa
Travella.
Tuscany
This lovely totally restored semi-detached house is located just 500
metres from the centre of Bagni di Lucca in Tuscany and comes with
all amenities. Less than 1hour from Pisa and 30minutes from Lucca,
this spacious property, built over 3 floors, provides some 180m2 of
accommodation and comprises 3 bedrooms, one with balcony, plus
cellars and garage.
Price just reduced to €270.000 from 320,000 Euros. A saving of
50,000 Euros!
Le Marche, Lapedona
This lovely property which has been renovated throughout and
completed this year is located in Lapedona and benefits from
magnificent views over the countryside and sea. The spacious
property of 350m2 comprises four floors including 5 bedrooms and a
private, well equipped gym. There is a newly built swimming pool
with pool house and a separate boiler room. This property sits in 2
acres of land which includes olive and fruit trees and would be
ideal as an investment to rent part of the property if required.
Price: 650,000 Euros, reduced from 750,000Euros. A saving of
100,000 Euros!
MARCH 2010
ITALY
FOR THE BEST BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Photo Caption
Nr Volterra, Tuscany, Italy
Beautifully restored mill in secluded location with magnificent
views.
The property is on three floors and maintains many of the original
features.
Accommodation: - Living Room with bar area and pool table. 2nd
living room, dining area and fully fitted kitchen with glass floor.
Four bedrooms and three bathrooms.
Private garden with swimming pool.
Spacious stone terraces and bbq.
20 km from San Gimignano, 50 km from Florence 35 km from the sea.
1,395,000 euros.
Casa Travella www.casatravellapremier.com
01322 660988
Looking for a
safe investment in the world’s current crisis is not always easy but
astute people with commercial acumen and a flair for running a
business are finding that now is in fact a superb time to secure
exceptional overseas businesses.
Take for instance, Italy, where in the beautiful Tuscan countryside
or that of Le Marche, there are currently some very good
opportunities to purchase properties that are either already
operating a successful enterprise or indeed are ripe for
entrepreneurial intervention.
Linda Travella of Casa Travella, an expert on Italian property since
1987, says, “These types of businesses are normally hard to find but
in the current economic climate there is a greater choice for the
serious investor. An up and running business can be secured for as
little as 500,000 euros.”
One such property on Linda’s books is owned by British couple Pam
and David Bates. This is Villa San Ginesio in Le Marche, a beautiful
spacious villa, with nine bedrooms all with en suites, where they
have created a thriving hotel business. The property has been
featured on television and famous celebrities have stayed there.
Says Pam, “It has been a great adventure; and we were welcomed into
the community with open arms. It is a very good time to purchase as
we have seen signs already of increased bookings for 2010”.
Pam’s business, which is being marketed by Casa Travella, is being
offered at only 550,000 euros having recently been reduced.
Continued Linda, “This is just one example of value for money
businesses available at present, but they won’t last long as the
Italian property market is already showing signs of recovery, having
not been as seriously affected as many other European countries.
“I have been selling homes and businesses in Italy for over 23 years
so I have seen the vagarious of the market place before. These are
prime opportunities to invest at prices not seen for years and
probably won’t be again.
Currently we have some very good and unusual opportunities for
businesses; these are either for owners to run and enjoy themselves
or for busy business people to put in a capable manager”.
Below are some other suggestions from Linda that are good
opportunities to invest.
Calcinaia, Tuscany
Beautiful complex of authentically restored 200 year old buildings
set in the hills with breathtaking view of Lake Montedoglio.
Four spacious properties comprising
main five bedroom house, with ensuite facilities..
rental house, four bedrooms each with en suite
studio
workshop
Set in 5.2 acres there is a good sized swimming pool. The buildings
afford individual heating and the outstanding complex can provide
excellent rental income as it benefits from up to date
communications including satellite tv and fast broadband.
“This is a property with flexible accommodation so there are many
ways it could be utilised. Perhaps a Wellness centre, Retreat, a
cookery learning centre or an art school - the possibilities are
endless” says Linda.
£1,750,000 reduced from £2.5 million.
Villa san Rocco, Piombino, Tuscany
Former farmer’s chapel and over 200 years old located in olive
groves .
Beautiful views over the sea and the Isle of Elba.
Pisa 75 mins. Florence and Sienna 90 mins.
Main Villa: An exceptionally spacious residence with large sunken
lounge with fireplace, dining room, kitchen, tv area and four
bedrooms and four bathrooms. There are covered terraces and a
portico. There are also two further apartments in the grounds.
Currently operating as a very successful B&B.
1 acre of landscaped grounds where a pool could easily be created.
1,450,000 euros negotiable. (Recently reduced from £1,700,000)
JANUARY 2010
ITALIAN MARKET PREDICTIONS 2010
PHOTO CAPTION
Says
Linda Travella of Casa Travella.
An Italian property expert who frequently appears on radio and
television.
“2010 promises
more interest in the less risky world property markets. There is
talk that in Italy, a well established country, property prices
could increase by 3-5% in late Spring”, says Linda Travella of Casa
Travella, who has been selling property in Italy since 1987.
Continues Linda, “2009 started off very slowly in all markets with
the realisation of what had happened in September 2008.
That said, Italy suffered less than most other world markets and
prices did not really start to drop in the first quarter unless
clients were desperate to sell, where reductions of between 5 -10%
maximum were reflected in both re-sale and new build properties.
Spring turned into Summer with the realisation that there were for
sure, less buyers, and unless vendors were more flexible, clients
would go elsewhere. This manifested itself in price reductions and
vendors more likely to consider offers.
The last quarter of 2009 saw sales and interest returning,
especially with Italy being considered a safer investment than many
other markets around the world.”
Stephen Hughes, associate director at Foreign Currency Direct says,
“There are plenty of positives for those looking to buy in Euros
going into 2010 after a relatively stable second half of 2009.
Even though the UK appears to have fallen behind other economies in
the race out of recession and economic recovery, Sterling has held
pretty firm against the single European currency, trading two to
three cents either side of 1.10 during the second half of last year.
On top of this, recent data releases from Halifax, Rightmove,
Nationwide and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors have shown
that the UK housing market has started to move in the right
direction with numbers of properties being put on the market,
numbers selling and prices all increasing.”
Linda suggests that if you have the cash, try to make an offer by
March as good bargains can definitely be found at the moment.
The housing market seems to be the driving force behind any UK
economic recovery so these positive announcements can only bode well
for Sterling in 2010 where it appears there will be several windows
of opportunity to buy Euros significantly above the relatively low
levels which have been the norm over the past few months.
As in the UK, mortgages are more difficult to come by, so if you
work on 50% loan to value, you shouldn’t be disappointed.
If you want advice for areas to invest in for the 1st quarter of
2010, then I would suggest looking at Tuscany, Le Marche and the
Lakes of Maggiore & Garda, where good deals can be found if you buy
sensibly.”
PRESS
RELEASE
JULY 2009
CONFIDENCE COMES BACK TO THE OVERSEAS PROPERTY MARKET -
BUT PROCEED WITH CAUTION.
Basilicata, Italy.
Beautiful apartments located on a residential complex at Lido di
Metaponto, Basilicata, less than 1km from the sea. The spacious
apartments are being offered fully furnished. Accommodation
comprises, living room, kitchen, 2 bedrooms, bathroom and spacious
covered roof terrace of some 35m2.The properties also benefit from a
dedicated parking space and use of the shared swimming pool. The
beautiful and well laid out complex has many facilities including a
number of shops, restaurants, bars, grocery shop and discotheque.
Price €165.000
Casa Travella Ltd.
www.casatravella.com 01322-660988
A global
recession has taken its toll on the overseas property market but
interestingly in the last couple of months there has been a marked
increase in business particularly in countries that have always
provided good and safe investments, such as Italy.
“I have been marketing homes in Italy for 22 years”, says Linda
Travella of Casa Travella, “so have sold through recessions before.
What was different about this decline was the fact it was global.
However, Italy is a country that was not high on bank borrowings so
therefore did not suffer the brunt of the world’s economic downturn
and has therefore remained remarkably buoyant.
Gary Pennington is a client of Casa Travella. A businessman and
accountant he doesn’t buy on a whim. He considers exactly the pros
and cons and has therefore bought prudently. So successful was his
purchase on Lake Como that he bought another property in Basilicata,
through Casa Travella as an investment.
Says Gary, “Before I began investing in Italy I decided to do my
homework by choosing a company with an in-depth knowledge of the
country. I checked on Casa Travella and felt that the company
offered a professional, personal service and that
Linda knew the market place extremely well. I am very happy with the
Lake Como property which I use for personal pleasure and for letting
income.
Due to the success of this investment I decided that I wanted to buy
in Italy again and sought Linda’s advice. She suggested the region
of Basilicata. The two bedroom, brand new, apartment, that I
purchased, has a fabulous 35 sq metres covered veranda, sun terrace
and shared pool and has been a sound investment. I am now selling
this back through Casa Travella at a profit; I paid 105,000 euros
four and a half years ago and she suggests the marketing price now
should be 165,000 euros. I am just waiting for the 5 year ownership
period to elapse so that I can avoid Capital Gains Tax in Italy.”
Casa Travella is a company with an outstanding reputation and
through its long standing position within the overseas property
market can provide buyers with a comfort factor borne out of years
of selling successfully to UK and international buyers and being
backed by professional institutions.
Linda is a member of the Italian Chamber of Commerce for the UK. She
is also a member of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA)
incorporating FOPDAC. Linda was chairman of FOPDAC (Federation of
Overseas Property developers, Agents and Consultants) from 2000 to
2004 and is media spokeswoman for NAEA International and an active
committee member.
Due to her supreme knowledge of Italy and its properties, Linda has
appeared on numerous radio and television programmes including BBC
Breakfast TV, I Want that House, Selling Houses Abroad and filming A
Place in the Sun with TV property hostess Amanda Lamb.
“People with savings are seeing virtually nil returns on their
banking investments and as the market in Italy is definitely showing
signs of bottoming out this summer, buyers could make the purchase
of a lifetime with capital growth and income”, said Linda whilst
citing the examples not only of the property in Basilicata, but also
the bargain below of the properties in Tuscany Volterra which have
only just been reduced.
Casa Travella is a niche company where buyers deal personally with
Linda who speaks fluent Italian and has visited a high proportion of
the properties that she markets, so can give first hand information.
Concluded Linda, “It is important to always take professional advice
and use a company which is a member of an International Federation.
I also recommend that buyers using lawyers choose those that are
versed in the legalities of the country in question. It is not
appropriate to use their normal UK solicitor unless they have
specialist knowledge of the country in which their client is buying.
Following these simple guidelines makes for an easy, trouble free
purchase, as with Gary, enabling buyers to have a second home with
all the personal joy that brings plus the added incentive of rental
return and capital growth”.
Currently available through Casa Travella is –
Tuscany Volterra
A development of 7 superbly finished Tuscan style apartments, only
7km from the City of Volterra and completed in April 2009.
3 remaining 2 bedroomed apartments with individual parking spaces,
private gardens front and rear and shared swimming pool.
Bargain at reduced price from €300.000 to €250.000!!
CASA TRAVELLA
www.casatravella.com
www.casatravellapremier.com
01322 660988
Photo Caption
Linda Travella of Casa Travella.
END
EDITOR’S NOTES
Linda Travella was chairman for four years of FOPDAC, the Federation
of Overseas Property Developer, Agents and Consultants and is now
Media Spokeswoman and committee member of NAEA International,
National Association of Estate Agents, and is a member of the
Italian Chamber of Commerce, UK.
Linda Travella has filmed with Amanda Lamb for A Place in the Sun,
where they were on Lake Como looking at beautiful villas belonging
to George Clooney and others.
Linda has also appeared on numerous radio and television programmes
as she has specialised in sales of Italian homes to British and
International buyers for over 22 years.
PRESS
RELEASE
JULY 2009
MORTGAGE OR CASH –
GLOBAL MARKETS DICTATE BUYING TRENDS
PHOTO
CAPTION
Luxury ground floor apartment which forms part of a restored Liberty
style villa in the Alture region of Stresa on Lake Maggiore, Italy.
Owner benefits from covered portico and spacious garden.
This exquisite two bedroom apartment is located close to all
amenities including being just 600 metres from a glorious golf
course.
210,000 euros
Casa Travella www.casatravella.com
01322 660988
“Whichever way
you look at it, buying a property in Italy has never been so easy or
offered so many superb opportunities to buy at competitive prices,
and I should know; I have been selling there for 22 years!”, says
Linda Travella of Casa Travella.
Italy is a perennial favourite for many reasons; it is a short
flight time from the UK, the infrastructure is good, the people
friendly, the food and wine superb, the history, culture and
architecture spellbinding and the scenery mesmerising.
“Banking money, with such dismal low returns is virtually a wasted
exercise at present”, continues Linda, “so astute investors are now
looking at buying property abroad. Italy is a safe country in which
to purchase property and although property prices have fallen a
little, interest has never truly waned. The summer months are adding
renewed interest and with market showing strong signs of bottoming
out, there are some terrific purchasing opportunities around if you
are quick.
So, is a better option to pay cash? Many of my clients spending
150,000 euros or less, are doing just that. They are then renting
the property for income and using for family holidays. If on the
other hand, clients are looking to spend upwards of that figure, why
not opt for a mortgage?
We are currently suggesting to our clients, mortgages through well
established Italian banks which are, at present, offering some very
good opportunities of up to 70-75% mortgages with rates currently
varying between 2.75% and 4.00% (dependant on fixed or variable
rates and subject to criteria). For example, a property costing
250,000 euros, with a deposit of 50,000 euros, would result in
repayment over 20 years of 840 euros per calendar month. Over 25
years this would drop to 718 euros per calendar month.
The expenses for instructing the mortgage are also fixed at about
700 euros (including the survey) so you know from the outset, your
financial commitment.
Also be advised that you will pay 0.25% of the value of the mortgage
if you buy the property as your main home, or 2% tax if you are
buying the property as a second home.”
Taking into account the ease with which one can purchase, maybe now
is the time to consider looking more closely at what could be yours.
Currently Casa Travella has a fine selection of homes at realistic
prices.
Alture, Stresa.
A ground floor apartment, forming part of a restored Liberty style
villa, in the Alture region of Stresa on Lake Maggiore.
This delightful two bedroom property with private garden can be
purchased for just 210,000 euros.
Tuscany Palaia,
Stunning one bedroom apartment located in the beautifully restored
hamlet, close to the town of Palaia and 40 minutes from Pisa
International airport.
The hamlet comprises 24 acres of rolling countryside including olive
groves. The apartment is being sold fully furnished. The hamlet
offers two swimming pools, restaurant, wine and delicatessen shop,
plus parking within the gated complex. The apartment is just one
hour from Florence and equal distance time wise, from the sea.
Concluded Linda, “If you purchase in an area that is sought after by
holiday makers or winter sports enthusiasts, you can considerably
increase the “value” of your home by being able to rent out the
property when you are not using it yourself. Returns on say a two
bedroom apartment close to the lakes can realise as much as 800
euros per week in high season based on a property that has cost you
in the region of 280,000 euros.
For higher end homes the returns are substantially greater”.
Casa Travella Ltd.
01322 660988
www.casatravellapremier.com
www.casatravella.com
EDITOR’S NOTES
Linda Travella was chairman for four years of FOPDAC, the Federation
of Overseas Property Developer, Agents and Consultants and is now
Media Spokeswoman and committee member of NAEA International,
National Association of Estate Agents, and is a member of the
Italian Chamber of Commerce, UK.
Linda Travella has filmed with Amanda Lamb for A Place in the Sun,
where they were on Lake Como looking at beautiful villas belonging
to George Clooney and others.
Linda has also appeared on numerous radio and television programmes
as she has specialised in sales of Italian homes to British and
International buyers for over 22 years.
PRESS
RELEASE
FEBRUARY 2009
HOMES OVERSEAS PRESENTER SELLS SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS IN LE MARCHE,
ITALY.
PHOTO CAPTION
David and Pam Bates enjoying life in Italy.
David and Pam
Bates are a couple with a zest for life and a will and energy to
create an exciting lifestyle for themselves. It was no surprise
therefore to their family and friends that in 2001 they decided to
leave their home at Chandlers Ford in Hampshire and buy a derelict
property in Le Marche in Italy.
“David and I were absolutely fed up with our lives in the UK and as
my brother had been living in Le Marche for over nine years it was
the obvious place to start looking”, says Pam. Within a short period
they found what they were looking for – a typical Italian style home
set in a hectre of land surrounded by open countryside. The three
storey abandoned farmhouse was being marketed for just £42,000 but
was in need of total renovation.
“It was quite a challenge”, continues Pam, ”but David and I rather
like being in that type of situation and so we set to work not just
getting the property habitable for ourselves but also carrying out a
substantial business plan with the designation of Country House
providing bed and breakfast with a fully licensed restaurant”.
Renovation work included new roof, doors, windows, wiring, plumbing,
central heating, sewerage, landscaping, professional kitchen,
tiling, plastering, and the creating of 9 bathrooms and a bar plus
purchase of furniture for 9 rooms plus public areas and the creating
of a swimming pool. Later projects included extra rooms, decking and
porticos etc. In addition they had to have the linen, and soft
furnishings, coffee and beer machines, crockery, outdoor furniture,
and the complete stocking of the restaurant and bar.
Time was tight as they had to be open by February 2003 as they had
12 guests booked in! Pam is a gregarious person who had run a model
agency and events company so knew the advantages of Public
Relations. Because of the unusual concept of derelict farmhouse to
Country hotel, the property was featured on A Place in Italy 2004, a
Channel 4 production. The property was also featured on BBC’s Put
your Money where your Mouth is in 2008. Guests have included a wide
range of stars and celebrities including GMTV’s Ben Shepherd.
Villa Sibillini is a beautifully presented property which has been
lovingly and tastefully restored and decorated in an modern yet
understated style adding to its charming external appearance. It
oozes charm and tranquillity both internally and externally where
the quiet poolside area surrounded by beautiful countryside is a
magical place in which to spend time.
The enterprise therefore is a small hotel which can offer a wide
variety of sources of income from bed and breakfast to weddings. The
location makes it ideal for walking holidays, family breaks and
romantic weekends. It has also attracted great interest from those
organising hen nights and its proximity to ski resorts less than
half an hour away ensures year round bookings. Pam’s brother has
restored a wooden sailing boat with Norman Cook and Zoe Ball which
is for charter off Sardinia and Pam and David have promoted two
centre breaks based on this.
Added Pam, “After six years of running the business and the fact we
are not getting any younger, we are now looking for a different life
style. However, whoever buys our lovely home will not be left
totally on their own to run the business. David and I are happy to
offer support with the marketing for at least six months if they
wish it.”
The property is now being marketed through Casa Travella, experts in
the sale of homes in Italy since 1987. Linda Travella says, “The
home is in excellent decorative order throughout and a new owner
could start running the business from day one. I understand that
2009 bookings are now coming in thick and fast which is good news
but then Italy is such a beautiful country, it will always attract
visitors”.
Villa Sibillini Country House is on the market for 850,000 euros and
open to offers. Recognising buyers current difficulties in raising
funds in these difficult times the Bates are being creative with
payment terms and would accept a lump sum deposit with stage
payments or a lump sum and the new buyer could take on the small,
existing mortgage.
Villa Sibillini
850,000 euros.
Small country hotel plus living accommodation set in 1 hectre of
land.
Concluded Linda, “For those wanting this type of overseas business,
but would prefer something a little different, we have a wide choice
of suitable properties which can be easily found on our web sites”.
230,000 euros. Monterubbiano, Southern Le Marche. (ref 2047)
In need of renovation. Two storeys. 200 sq metres of accommodation
plus two annexes and garage. Electricity and water supplied. Located
260 metres from private road.
Set in 20 acres with woods, vineyards, olive grove and pine trees
and fruit trees. Great potential.
230,000 euros. Montegiorgio, Southern Le Marche. ( Ref 2046)
Lovely colonial style property, partly restored. 200 sq metres of
accommodation over two floors plus a garage. 8 bedrooms, 4/5
bedrooms. Ideal property for project and to rent out 2/3 bedrooms to
guests.
Courtyard of over half an acres. Sits in 10 acres of land which is
being sold separately.
PRESS
RELEASE
FEBRUARY 2009
ENTREPRENEURS WITH AN EYE FOR THE FUTURE
CHOOSE ITALY’S HIGH END HOMES
Close to the town of Volterra.
A beautifully restored farmhouse set on a hill with panoramic views.
The property has been restored by the current owners and comprises
two reception rooms and four bedrooms each with its own bathroom.
There is an old church of 30 sq. m. in the grounds. The property
sits in approximately 3 acres with around 300 olive trees. Swimming
pool.
1,600,000 euros.
Casa Travella www.casatravellapremier.com
01322 660988
“High end homes in Italy are the most buoyant part of the Italian
property market”, says Linda Travella of Casa Travella, an expert on
Italian property sales and purchase for 22 yrs. Linda saw the
changing situation in the middle of 2008 and decided to set up and
launch her premier property site to complement the company’s
original web site. “Many of my fellow professionals thought it was a
strange idea to spend time and money launching a premier site when
there was clearly going to be a down turn in the market, but not
James Caan, who Linda met at the recent NAEA International Forum
where James was the guest speaker.
Linda met the Dragons Den entrepreneur, at a NAEA (National
Association of Estate Agents) International Forum for which Linda
was the main organiser. “When James gave his speech he advised
delegates to do the opposite of everyone else and don’t do what the
masses do,“ added Linda who was very pleased to hear this advice as
she was only a week away from launching her new web site.
The site, www.casatravellapremier.com is very easy to use and
enables those without too much time, to concentrate on those
properties in their price bracket.
Continued Linda, “Amidst a very turbulent economy it is interesting
to note that in general the high end of the property market
continues to do well. “Clients know that January is a good time to
buy in normal economic conditions as not many people view and
vendors are more likely to accept offers. This year, they see it as
an excellent opportunity to invest their funds in something stable
rather than leaving it in banks where interest rates are at an all
time low. Once Spring dawns vendors become more enthusiastic and
with Barak Obama as the new US President and banks beginning to
stabilise, vendors will become more confident and less likely to
accept offers.”
Currently available through Casa Travella are two remarkable
properties one of which is a handsome farmhouse set in 3 acres with
300 olive trees and a swimming pool. There are wide reaching vistas
of beautiful Italian countryside in all directions yet the property
is only 10 minutes from the pretty town of Volterra. Lovingly
restored by the current owners, this four bedroom property with
bathrooms to each bedroom even boasts an old church of some 30 sq m
in the grounds. The property is on the market for 1,600,000 euros.
Casa Travella is also currently marketing a period villa built
around the early part of the 20th century. The property sits on an
exclusive site of around 1/3 acre of beautifully maintained gardens
just a few metres from the centre of Stresa.
This four bedroom mansion has recently been sympathetically restored
to retain the period architectural features including a spacious
lounge with fireplace and fresco ceiling. The property benefits from
magnificent views of Lake Maggiore.
1,800,000 euros
Concluded Linda, “The new premier web site is proving popular not
just with buyers but also with vendors of quality homes as they like
the fact that if their homes is worth 750,000 euros or more they can
be represented on a specialised Italian property site.”
Casa Travella
01322 660988
www.casatravellapremier.com
www.casatravella.com
EDITOR’S NOTES
Linda Travella has recently finished filming with Amanda Lamb for
the new series of A Place in the Sun, where they were on Lake Como
looking at beautiful villas belonging to George Clooney and Richard
Branson
Linda Travella was chairman for four years of FOPDAC, the Federation
of Overseas Property Developer, Agents and Consultants and is now
Media Spokesperson and committee member of NAEA International,
National Association of Estate Agents, and is a member of the
Italian Chamber of Commerce, UK.
PRESS RELEASE
DEC. 2008
BECKHAM
HEADS TO A.C. MILAN
Lake Como, Italy
Carate Urio. A lovely villa located just a short distance from Villa
d’Este at Carate Urio. Property sits in beautiful terraced gardens.
This spacious liberty style villa was originally built in the early
19th century and is built on three levels offering magnificent views
of the lake and provides some 480 sq metres of accommodation.
Features include stained glass windows and wood flooring.
Accommodation comprises five bedrooms, three living rooms.
PRICE: €2.500.000.
Available through Casa Travella
www.casatravellapremier.com
David Beckham
is heading to Italy having signed for the footballing giant, seven
times European champions, A.C. Milan. He is to reside in one of the
most fashionable and chic regions in the world and already paparazzi
are speculating as to where he will choose to buy a home.
One of the rumours has him house hunting around Lake Como and
certainly you cannot get a more stunningly beautiful region in which
to buy a property.
If Victoria Beckham enjoyed shopping in Madrid then she will, for
sure, enjoy taking the children for an ice cream in La Galleria or
strolling down the Via Monte Napoleone the designer shopping street
in Milan. Whilst Victoria may wish to stay in Los Angeles to ensure
continuity with their children’s education, when they visit, hotel
accommodation is not really and option, so it seems that Italy may
soon get some new homeowners.
Also, if Victoria is hesitant, she may be influenced by Silvio
Berlusconi, the Italian prime minister, who has openly encouraged
them to buy a home in Italy by suggesting that Victoria consider
fronting a documentary on her move to Italy.
“Whatever they do makes news, “ says Linda Travella of Casa
Travella, experts in marketing quality Italian homes to the British
buying public for 21 years. “ In 2003 the Beckhams were seen looking
for a villa on Lake Como and focused on the area around Moltrasio,
Laglio where George Clooney has his villa, although in recent weeks
I read in ‘La Provincia’, the daily paper of the Como region, that
they have been looking for a penthouse in Milan.”
If the Beckhams want to be with the VIPs of the world then a
property on the lakes is the perfect answer. Silvio Berlusconi,
himself, has recently bought a stunning lakeside villa on Lake
Maggiore, and spent a considerable amount of time looking on Lake
Como before deciding.
Casa Travella can offer homes for the wealthy and also anyone who
appreciates quality homes in awe-inspiring locations. This part of
Italy is stylish, sophisticated and very chic. It offers skiing,
water sports, spectacular views and designer stores, glamorous
hotels, and top quality restaurants, in Milan or the elegant city of
Como. Juxtapose this with its history and culture and you have a
utopia.
If you would like a luxury villa similar to something that the
Beckhams may be interested in then Casa Travella can offer you
villas from €1.000.000 to €15.000.000. A villa currently available
would be a 600 square metre period villa with ancient murals and
incredible oil paintings, together with a 100 square metre house
suitable for guests or staff, all set in an acre of garden in a very
private location. Price is available on request, and is in excess of
€4.000.000.
“Despite the current world recession, those with money are still
buying”, says Linda Travella. “In fact, such has been the level of
interest I have recently launched a new website aimed specifically
at the top end of the marketing spectrum, where we can offer
superior homes of the highest calibre. Many owners tend to instruct
us on the understanding that sales are made discreetly. Having
specialised in Italy for 21 years and speaking the language
fluently, I am able to offer the type of service clients in this
price bracket, deem fundamental”.
“However you do not have to have millions to purchase on Lake Como
or Lake Maggiore. We have a newly restored town house with 3
bedrooms and three bathrooms for €640.000 and you can be within five
minutes walk of George Clooney’s residence, Villa Oleandra”.
If you go further along the Western shore of Como you could purchase
a new two bedroom apartment with a lake view for €250.000 at
Gravedona.
If you prefer Lake Maggiore then you can buy a two bedroom property
with terrace and lake view for €230.000.
If you want to be “where it’s at”, then start looking now. There
really has never been a better time to buy with prices being
extremely realistic.
Casa Travella
01322 660988
www.casatravellapremier.com
www.casatravella.com
EDITOR’S NOTES
Exchange rate correct at time of writing.
Linda Travella has recently finished filming with Amanda Lamb for
the new series of A Place in the Sun, where they were on Lake Como
looking at beautiful villas belonging to George Clooney and Richard
Branson
Linda Travella was chairman for four years of FOPDAC, the Federation
of Overseas Property Developer, Agents and Consultants and is now
Media Spokesperson and committee member of NAEA International,
National Association of Estate Agents, and is a member of the
Italian Chamber of Commerce, UK.
PRESS RELEASE
NOVEMBER 2008
CREDIT
CRUNCH?
BEEN THERE, SEEN THAT
People are nervous about buying property abroad but 20 years of
experience
shows how to survive and succeed.
PHOTO CAPTION
Linda Travella of Casa Travella.
20 years experience in the Italian property market.
Cerbaia, Tuscany, Italy.
Stunning Agriturismo complex located just 20 km from Florence.
Includes magnificent villa built over two floors and substantial
further buildings.
63 hectares of land of which 10 hectares of vineyard produce Chianti
Classico, 7 hectares are planted with olive trees and two hectares
have nut trees and the remainder is divided between woodland and
arable land.
The main building has 640sq metres of accommodation. Swimming pool.
€4.900.000 (£3,900,000).
Casa Travella - Premier
www.casatravellapremier.com
“People are nervous about buying because of the current
complications linked to the credit crunch and the dip in money
markets, but they need not be. Due to the fact that Italian banks
have been offering mortgages of up to 70%, the Italian banking
system is more stable than that of the UK or US.
As the Economy minister Giulio Tremonti told parliament last week,
Italian banks have sufficient liquidity to weather the global
economic storm, in part, due to their more conservative lending
practices. Mortgages are available in Italy (subject to the usual
criteria) and you should not encounter the same problems as you
would in the UK at present. These matters have a way of settling
down as they did in the early 90’s”, says Linda Travella of Casa
Travella.
Linda has been selling homes in Italy for over 20 years, and is
currently media spokeswoman for NAEA International, and has a great
deal of experience and knowledge in the vagaries of the property
market and the influences of political and monetary instabilities.
“In 1989 Casa Travella was a new company and I remember ‘Black
Monday’ and the recession period well. At the time I decided to put
my energies into launching a new area of Italy onto the British
market, and spent time working innovative ideas and visiting areas
ready for the inevitable rush to buy once the crisis was over”,
continues Linda. “I am doing the same thing now by launching a new
web site aimed at the top end of the market.”
The new web site, www.casatravellapremier.com is “aimed at clients
who are looking to spend over €750,000. With the most expensive
being a castle for sale at €15.000.000. The site complements the
existing site www.casatravella.com
Linda’s years of experience has taught her that those lucky enough
to still be in a position to pursue their ambitions to purchase look
for a company with a good track record; one of longevity,
professionalism and dedication. “People are reluctant to trust a
company that has only recently joined the market place. They want
the reassurance that only experience can bring,” continues Linda.
“Having been through the recession before I know what to expect and
one thing for certain is that high end buyers are always there.
Those looking for a lifestyle residence will not be deterred or
indeed be financially restricted by the current problems. If they
want a beautiful home in Italy then they will buy it. In fact, if
they are looking to buy now, the astute know that there is an
excellent choice at present.
I am very excited about the launch of this new site which will
provide not only a wide choice of high end homes in Italy it will
also give background on the regions including maps, culture, wines
and local fayre.”
An example of the types of properties to be displayed include-
A stunning Agriturismo complex in Val di Pesa just 20 km from
Florence for €4.900.000 (£3,900,000). The property has 63 hectares
of lands which includes a vineyard producing Chianti Classico, olive
trees, nut trees, woodland and arable land. The main residence
provides 640sq metres of accommodation. There is also a magnificent
swimming pool and breathtaking views.
Another exceptional property is the Villa Carlia in Lake Como. This
stunning building has a spacious two bedroom apartment located on
the top floor of this impressive period villa close to Tremezzo with
magnificent gardens stretching down to the lakeside. The apartment
is 160 sq metres and affords magnificent views. The apartment
benefits from the original “cotto” floor tiles, fresco ceilings and
access to part of the magnificent garden and is priced at €800,000
(£635,000).
Casa Travella
www.casatravellapremier.com
www.casatravella.com
01322 660988
EDITORS NOTES
Exchange rate figures correct at time of writing.
Linda Travella has recently finished filming with Amanda Lamb for
the new series of A Place in the Sun, where they were on Lake Como
looking at beautiful villas belonging to George Clooney, Richard
Branson and the late Gianni Versace.
Linda Travella was chairman for four years of FOPDAC, the Federation
of Overseas Property Developer, Agents and Consultants and is now
Media Spokeswoman and committee member of NAEA International,
National Association of Estate Agents, is a member of the Italian
Chamber of Commerce, UK and FIABCI.
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