Thinking about moving to Guaro? Let our quick guide help you get around and discover more about this “Natural Almond Paradise” that has a population of more than 2,000 inhabitants.
In this guide, we feature an interview with Laura Wood of Grapevine Properties who covers the Guaro area.
Particularly, we wanted to find out from Laura why Guaro is a nice choice for those who are thinking of moving permanently to the area as well as its advantages over the other towns in the Costa del Sol.
Laura, thanks for helping our readers. I guess we should start off by asking what would you say would be the advantages to living in Guaro compared to other Costa del Sol towns?
Guaro is a pretty white typically Spanish village. When you arrive, you truly feel like you are in the heart on Andalucia, all the little bars and shops, the people, it all adds to the whole ‘feel’ of the place. Guaro is also famous for hosting a festival called the ‘Luna Mora’. A moorish festival celebrating the village’s heritage. During the festival the streets are dotted with thousands of tea-lights, illuminating the entire village. There are also many stalls, art and crafts tents, live music, traditional food and all sorts of goings on. People come from all over the Costa del Sol to experience it.
Would the area not suit certain types of people, i.e. are there any possible downsides?
If you’re looking for an expat environment, Guaro really isn’t for you. You won’t find a ‘Murphy’s Bar’ or a typical English breakfast here!
What proportion of the local population are Spanish?
I’d say around 90 percent.
What are your favourite things to do in the area?
My favourite thing about Guaro is the local market day every Thursday, bussing with local people and fresh produce.
Can you give us some insider tips to the best bars or restaurants?
There are actually quite a few bars and restaurants in the village. To mention a few, ‘Lord Cani’s’ does great food and ‘Xcape’ for a modern drinks bar.
Are there many facilities such as doctors and dentists, shops etc?
Yes, there is a local pharmacy, doctors, mechanics, shops etc. Most of the locals leave Guaro very rarely and really find everything they would need within the village.
Are there smaller villages nearby that you might also recommend?
The area is studded with lots of beautiful white pueblos, Tolox and Monda for example have a very similar feel.
What are the nearest international schools and how good are they?
The nearest international schools would be in Marbella.
Is crime an issue for expats?
No, there is a population of some 2,000 people and everybody knows each other. Crime isn’t an issue.
Coming onto buying property, what is the market like now in terms of prices going up, or down or staying the same?
We are definitely seeing a move in the market. Prices are rising steadily and owners are definitely achieving closer to asking price. It’s a good sign for the Spanish economy!
Is this a good time to buy and are there any repossessions or very cheap properties still available to buy?
There are bank repossessions to be had and although there are few bargains still out there, prices are slowly increasing at the moment.
What urbanisations are there and can you describe each one and how they might differ from each other?
There are no urbanisations in Guaro.
How much are typical property prices in Guaro for apartments, villas etc?
That’s a difficult and almost impossible question to answer as every property is totally unique and has its pros and cons. But roughly, to purchase a townhouse or apartment in the center of village, you are talking between 80,000-150,000 euros. The cheaper country villas are on the market at around 180,000 but usually more. 180,000 is really the lower end of the market for a country villa.
Any tips and advice to people looking to buy in Guaro or surrounding area?
Yes, work with an agency you trust. We pride ourselves on offering a personal bespoke services. We are a small family run company, offering a friendly and professional service to all our clients. We are dedicated to working on a 1 to 1 basis with our clients.
Laura, thank you so much for taking the time to help our readers with your experiences in Spain. If you want to contact her, you can find her details below.
Calle El Burgo n˚5, Guaro 29108
Tel. +34 952 457 761
Email: enquiries@grapevine-properties.com
Website: grapevine-properties.com
Below is a video where you can view some of the breathtaking places in Guaro.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Xq-kv73nVQ
Contact us to be featured – we want more expat interviews for our newsletter and website. You don’t need to be an estate agent, we want to hear from anyone who lives in Spain whether you are working or retired.
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