Why You Need to Visit Murcia, Spain

The autonomous Spanish region of Murcia is situated between the better known regions of Andalucía and Valencia in South Eastern Spain. Murcia is approximately 882 square Km, and has a population of 1.3 million people, with about a third of these people living in and around the city of Murcia itself. The climate is warm, with an average winter temperature of 11 degrees and around 34 degrees in summer, and boasts more than 300 sunny days a year. A recent World Health Organisation study pronounced Murcia the cleanest province in Spain.

Murcia is easily reached thanks to its two international airports, Alicante which sees over 9m passengers per year, and Murcia / St Javier airport which sees 3m passengers per year. A third airport in Corvera is scheduled to open in 2009, to make the city of Murcia and surrounding areas even easier to reach. Railway links with Madrid and Valencia, as well as a good motorway network mean that Murcia is very accessible.

One of Murcia’s main features is the Costa Calida (Warm Coast) on the Mediterranean. It runs from Aguilas near Almeria in the south, to El Mojon on the boundary with Alicante in the north east. There is a n extensive and varied range of activities available including sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing and jet skiing, and much more, ensuring that there are plenty of new activities to try and something for everyone. From picturesque small fishing towns to mountains, the Costa Calida has it all.

Located in the south east of Murcia is Mar Menor, which at 170 square Km is the largest saltwater lagoon in the world. With its gentle winds and warm water, it is the ideal place for learning water sports as the high salt content makes it a safe place to swim. The waters are also believed to be therapeutic which has brought about spa tourism. The marshes surrounding Mar Menor have become a conservation area, and see a huge number and species of birds. Mar Menor is separated from the Mediterranean Sea by a 22km stretch of beach called La Manga del Mar Menor, which has become one of the most highly regarded resorts on the Mediterranean.

The region of Murcia is also rich with historical buildings and castles including those at Alamha, Mula and Lorca, whilst the port of Cartagena is a popular destination for cruise ships. San Javier is located just off the Mar Menor, and less than half an hour from both Murcia and Cartagena, making it very handy for the main airport and a number of golf courses.

Excellent golf facilities are another reason for the increasing visitor numbers. The most well known of these, is the La Manga resort, which includes a hotel, apartments and villas as well as world class golf courses designed by Robert Putnam and Arnold Palmer. The courses at Altorreal and Torrepacheco are also well liked.

The North and West of Murcia is mainly mountainous agricultural land, and the majority of Spain’s fruit and vegetable crop is grown around the river Segura. Indeed tomatoes, lettuce, oranges and lemons grown in Murcia can often be found in the supermarkets of other European countries.

The city of Murcia was founded in 825 by the Egyptians, and the region has been under varying political control throughout the centuries, including a period of independence in the 13th century and became independent again in 1982. The 18th century was a highly prosperous time for the region, mainly because of the silk trade, and the majority of the churches and monuments date from around this time. Nowadays, Murcia is the 7th largest city in Spain by population.

Standing on the banks of the river Segura, Murcia has been described as one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The Moorish architecture and influence is very evident. The impressive cathedral was started in 1388 and took four centuries to complete. There are many celebrations and fiestas which take place all year round, and there is always plenty to do. Excellent shopping and varied cuisine are just two of the ways you can get to know Murcia better. Traditional arts and crafts such as weaving and embroidery remain popular. As well as celebrating its past, Murcia looks to the future with its impressive university building, and large student population.

The people of Murcia are very friendly by nature, and are welcoming tourism and residents from overseas. This region is very agricultural and horticultural, and has not seen the economic boom and commercialisation experienced by other regions of Spain. The traditional Spanish values and way of life are still evident here. The rise in Murcia’s popularity with tourists, as well as investments from regional government is improving infrastructure and facilities. Some new property developments have been permitted and Murcia is becoming a popular holiday home location. Strict planning regulations do not allow high rise buildings, and ensure that towns and cities are not over-developed.

Murcia is a very exciting part of Spain to visit or to live in, with plenty for everyone. Whether it’s a beach holiday, a golfing weekend or your new home, Murcia can provide it all.

Life And Leisure in Murcia

Murcia, in South East Spain, has not had the same publicity, or prosperity, as other regions of Spain, but improved air services, thanks in part to low cost airlines, rail and motorway links, and property development, ensure this is set to change. This traditional region is now appealing to visitors who wish to enjoy the real Spain, and Spanish culture such as food, architecture and the pace of life. No longer do visitors to Spain want English style pubs near the beach, or English newspapers available in the local shop. The Mediterranean diet is both cheap and healthy, whether you choose to cook, or to eat out. There is plenty to choose from and most of the fruit and vegetables will be grown locally. The “package holiday destination” image that Spain previously had is on the decline.

The Costa Calida (Warm Coast) runs for over 170km and has blue seas and a range of coastal resorts, and traditional Spanish fishing villages. The winter temperature of around 11 degrees and a summer temperature of up to 34 degrees give the region an average annual temperature of 18 degrees. Combined with over 300 sunny days a year, it is not hard to see why this region is so tempting. The Costa Calida has something for everyone, from unspoilt beaches and fishing villages, to fine golf courses and excellent water sports facilities.

The region is also well known by golfers, and the La Manga resort is the most famous golf course in Murcia, if not Spain. As well as La Manga, the Club de Golf Altorreal and the Mosa Golf Club are popular courses, and there are many other courses being developed. Some property developments are designed to appeal to golfers, and are located near golf courses, and new dedicated golf resorts are being built.

At 170km square, the Mar Menor is the Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon. As well as a fantastic place to learn to sail, windsurf, water ski, and jet ski, the high salt content means that the lagoon is safe to swim and paddle, making it popular with families. The Mar Menor has also become a conservation area and home to a huge number of different species of birds.

If the beach, water sports and golf don’t appeal to you, there are many other reasons to visit Murcia. The city of Murcia itself dates back to 825, and has been described as the most beautiful city in Spain. With excellent shopping and dining in tapas bars and restaurants, as well as Moorish architecture, the City of Murcia has lots to offer. The university and student population, as well as many festivals and celebrations mean that there is always plenty to do. There are also castles and historic buildings to be found in the towns of Alamha, Mula and Lorca, and the port of Cartagena is a popular stopover for cruise ships. San Javier, could possibly be the perfect location: near the airport, less than half an hour from both Murcia and Cartagena, and within easy reach of several golf courses.

The region of Murcia is traditionally agricultural, and grows a lot of olives, citrus fruit and vegetables. With over 100 000 hectares of vineyards, this region has a tradition of winemaking. The wines have not always been of the best quality, but thanks to new technology and techniques, the wine is rapidly improving and becoming more commercially successful. Why not sample some wine while you are there?

Nature lovers are well catered for in Murcia, and there are many nature parks that are well worth the visit. Calblanque, south of Mar Menor has been a protected natural area since 1982, and a nature reserve since 1992. This nature reserve has high dunes, sandy beaches and many species of birds and plants. Visitors can enjoy the park on foot, bike and horseback as well as by car.

San Pedro del Pinatar is home to the regional park of Salinas y Arenales, the most important wetlands in the region. Flocks of flamingos rest here each year before their journey to North Africa.

The Sierra Espuna regional park has amazing scenery including dramatic peaks, forests and many species of plants. Wild boar, goats, mountain cats and tortoises can all be found here. This park is popular with organised walking tours, and the peak of Espuna at 1579m can be seen from miles around.

The warm climate and coastal activities usually initially attract visitors, and once there, they discover there is a lot more to the region than just beaches and golf. From a hike through a national park to a round of golf, from a day on the beach to a day sightseeing, Murcia will appeal to everyone.

Buying a Property in Murcia, Spain

After carefully researching the region of Murcia, choosing the right location and type of property, and viewing different property for sale in Murcia, after the ideal home has been found, the next step is to actually purchase it.

Whilst not an exhaustive or step by step guide to purchasing property in Murcia, this guide provides an overview of the buying process. Whether buying a Costa Calida property by the beach, or a new golf development inland, the process is the same.

Finding a good property agent with plenty of experience is essential, and the importance of an agent with local knowledge, and contacts cannot be overestimated. An English-speaking Spanish lawyer should also be employed. Together the agent and the lawyer should be able to provide the necessary advice and assistance, and help avoid common mistakes and problems. It is also worth consulting a financial or tax advisor, especially if the property is to be a permanent residence.

The estate agent can help with finding a mortgage, although they may favour a particular mortgage provider. Spanish mortgage interest rates are lower than the rest of Europe, making buying Murcia property even more appealing. A mortgage offered by a developer is often well worth considering, as there are substantial tax savings to be made. The developer is likely to have a mortgage on the property to fund the development. This mortgage can then be transferred (subrogated) to a new buyer. The new buyer in effect “takes over” the mortgage from the developer, rather than taking out a new mortgage. Savings of several thousand euros in tax and administration fees can usually be saved this way. Subrogation may not be the best way to finance your Murcia property, but it should certainly be investigated. It is important to secure a mortgage so that the properties being considered are within budget. Before getting too carried away, be aware that a deposit of at least 40% of the purchase price plus taxes and fees is usually required. A lot of the process for purchasing property in Murcia will involve appearing in person. If this is not possible, a trusted “power of attorney”, such as the Spanish lawyer, can appear instead.

The property buyer needs to apply for their NIE (Numero del Indentificacion de Extranjero) or ID number at a police station. This can be done at any time, and once issued, means that a power of attorney is not required. This number is used to track a person’s financial and commercial activities in Spain. The NIE is used for many things, such as for employment, buying a vehicle and insurance, as well as for applying for a mortgage or other type of loan, and buying or selling a property.

Once in possession of the NIE, the next step is to open a Spanish bank account, so that payments can be made. Official documentation such as a passport will be required. There are different accounts available for residents and non residents. Applying for a non residential account requires a Certificao de no Resdiencia) to prove residential status. This can be obtained on application from a police station.

The lawyer will help get the necessary background checks done on the property. Purchasing off plan will require all licenses and certificates to be issued, and that the property is debt free and bank guarantees are in place to protect the deposit in case the development is not completed. Purchasing an existing property requires background and history checks into the ownership and debt status. The Lawyer will help to set up an escrow account so that the deposit is protected. It is important to consider making a will; under Spanish law, without a will, the property may not be inherited as expected.

Once the ideal property has been found, and the legal and official processes are underway, the next step is to reserve the property. Each developer will have their own procedures, and there may be some room for negotiation. Purchasing an off plan property requires the reservation contract to be signed, and the payment of a small deposit. This will reserve the property for a month to enable the rest of the deposit to be paid. When the deposit has been paid, the purchase contract can be signed. While the paperwork will be in Spanish, translations will be available.

Once the property is ready to be handed over, the purchase can be completed. The balance of the purchase price and taxes is paid, and the Escrita Publica de Compraventa (Public Deed of Sale) is signed. This document must be authorised by a Spanish Notary and signed by both the Buyer and Seller. At this point, the buyer becomes the owner. There are additional documents that the seller is required to provide, which can vary. Expect to see title deeds, proof of payment of the most recent IBI (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles) property tax, proof of recent utilities and other documents. Again, legal advice will be useful.

When the sale is completed, the next step is to register with the Land Registry, and the Catastro. The Land Registry is concerned with the ownership and title deeds of a property, whilst the Catastro deals with the exact location, description and boundaries of the property. This then ensures that all property tax correspondence is sent to the new owner.

As part of the purchase process, various taxes will need to be paid, and a rough guide is to budget for an additional 10% over the purchase price. The taxes paid buy the buyer will be negotiated by the chosen lawyer. For off plan properties, the IVA (Impuesto sobre el Valor Anadido) the equivalent of VAT, of 7%, IAJD (Impuesto Sobre Actos Juridicios Documentados), Tax on Documented Legal Transactions, and the Plus Valia, the capital gains tax on the increase in value of the land. Legal and Notary fees usually amount to approximately €2000.

Owning a property in Murcia is no different to owning anywhere else when it comes to ongoing costs. When budgeting, be sure to allow for community fees, such as for the upkeep of the pool and gardens if applicable. Utility bills are similar to UK costs; however there may be a connection cost in the beginning.

Various taxes will need to be paid, and the tax situation depends on residential status. The IBI (Impuesto Sobre Bienes Inmeubles) or community charge and the Impuesto Sobre La Renta (Letting Value Tax), the amount of which varies on residential status are paid on the property. The Impuestos Sobre la Renta de las Personas Fisicas or Income Tax is payable on all income for permanent residents and only for income earned in Spain for non residents. The Impuesto Sobre el Patrimonio or Wealth Tax is calculated on the value of assets including property and bank balance. As tax is a complicated matter at the best of times, professional advice on tax matters is highly recommended.

Despite it looking a complicated procedure, and lots to remember, buying a property in Murcia is highly recommended, and there are many experts who can help along the way.