Stress-free Kefalonia
More and more people are considering moving abroad from the UK to distance themselves from the daily stress of British life, and Kefalonia is proving a popular option “Now is a great time to buy a property on Kefalonia,” says Frances Findlay, of Kefalonian Homes.
“Mortgages and properties on the island remain comparatively inexpensive – and you would be investing in a young market which can only rise in value. More and more British people are realising the wisdom of buying property in Greece.
“It’s not just the financial benefits that attract people to Kefalonia though. Life here is far more relaxed, with great weather and superb scenery. It is the largest of the Ionian islands, and has only really opened-up to tourism in recent years. When times get tough in Britain most people really look forward to their holiday abroad and, whilst the present exchange rates make the cost of property seem more expensive, it can be balanced out by the low cost of living in Kefalonia which means that holiday costs are still very attractive. “There is a good level of demand for villas to rent on the island. Over the past 18 months, there has been an increase in the number of people who wish to buy or build a property to rent out.
“One of the most popular areas is the Paliki Peninsula. People considering buying, building and setting up a rental business can be put off by stories of bureaucratic red tape. However they can be reassured - a good agent who can handle the beauraucracy makes it a painless process .”
Summer flowers on Corfu
One of the main reasons people choose a move to the Ionian islands is for the climate, and by April the sun is shining and the weather is warm enough to go swimming in the sea on some days. By summer the countryside is covered in a carpet of wild flowers, making this a truly beautiful island on which to make your home. One of the most attractive property options on Corfu are the traditional, Corfiot-style villas and when one of these comes onto the market in good condition it does not hang around for long!
There is currently an old Corfiot style villa for sale close to Corfu Town which comes with around 3,000m2 of land with fruit trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables. The four-bedroom
property, which also has a heated swimming pool and separate annex is on the market for €450,000.
easyJet are now flying directly to the island and many of the holiday companies have added additional direct flights during the summer months which is good news for anyone considering a buy to let purchase. The island not only boasts great beaches, many of them with a coveted blue flag, but also lush green scenery both of which make Corfu attractive
to British holidaymakers – and assures you of a healthy rental income.