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Gianni Seghers traded his life in Beveren for the Costa Blanca to help Flemish people find their dream home. Now he works at New Construction in Spain and aims to create a Flemish enclave in Spain

Gianni Seghers, formerly with Beaver-based family company ISOSEGHERS, has recently made the move to Antwerp-based real estate company New Construction in Spain.

In the dynamic world of real estate, there are countless challenges and opportunities, especially for those venturing into managing a property business abroad on their own. Carl and Freyke, an ambitious duo with a passion for real estate, have taken the plunge and started their own new construction project in Spain. In an exclusive interview with Gazet van Antwerpen, they share their experiences, insights, and the obstacles they have had to overcome. From bureaucratic red tape to cultural differences and the unique opportunities offered by the Spanish real estate market, Carl and Freyke provide an open and honest behind-the-scenes look at their venture and offer valuable tips for anyone considering taking a similar leap.

In an interesting HLN article, Kees and Dominique talk about renting out their dream villa on the Costa Blanca North. The idea that they are using their property for holiday rentals to earn a nice amount of extra money piques curiosity.

Estate agents on the Belgian coast are not in a cheerful mood with this ailing weather, but their Spanish colleagues are doing excellent business. "If you buy now, with any luck you will be sitting on your terrace with a sangria a week later," says real estate expert Bjorn Cocquyt. He tips entry-level houses and flats from 200,000 to 3.25 million euros in every popular region, but also warns of pitfalls. "Debts stick to a property and thus become your responsibility. That's how you play it safe."

More and more Belgians are thinking about a country house in Spain. What rules of thumb should you respect when buying?

‘In an article published in the Gazet van Antwerpen, Tenerife residents expressed their opposition to mass tourism, saying: “It was beautiful here, until every bit of nature turned into a construction site” (Gazet van Antwerpen, s.a.).’ However, behind this frustration lie both positive and negative aspects of tourism. Let us look at the double-sided currency of tourism in Tenerife.

Tenerife, the largest island in the Canary Islands, is not only a sun-drenched paradise for vacationers, but also a place steeped in a rich and fascinating history. 

Last year, 4649 Belgians bought a residence in Spain, surpassing the record year of 2022. The Costa Blanca, with popular places like Benidorm and Torrevieja, remains a favourite, despite rising property prices. The Alicante region in particular attracts many Belgians thanks to its good value for money, excellent accessibility and sunny climate.

While in many countries and regions property prices are falling due to the tightening monetary policy of the European Central Bank (ECB), there are still areas where buying a home has become more expensive. This is the case, for example, in Costa Blanca, where the price tag of a house skyrocketed by about 10 per cent last year. "Despite the increased price, demand is still on the rise," notes Carl Vorsselmans of the real estate agency "New construction in Spain".

Discover the perfect blend of stunning natural landscapes, a mild climate, and world-class golf courses along the coasts of Spain. Whether you're a passionate golfer or seeking an idyllic second home, Spain provides an enchanting setting for your dream house. Explore the possibilities with us and let us guide you towards a life under the Spanish sun.

Discover the enticing culinary world of the Costa del Sol, where the blend of traditional flavors and gastronomic innovation turns every meal into a celebration. From the iconic Jamón Ibérico to refined Michelin-starred restaurants in Marbella, this region of Spain offers an unparalleled experience for food connoisseurs worldwide. Join us in exploring the diverse flavors and cultural richness that make the Costa del Sol a paradise for lovers of fine food and the good life.

Two years ago she took her bags to Tenerife. Today, Florence Beaumont (29) has fully acquired a taste for luxury real estate. The Bruges native, who founded the Les Coquettes Lifestyle concept hair salon when she was 19, is now going to work full-time on the Costa Blanca North. There she is setting up an office of the Antwerp-based company Nieuwbouw in Spanje. A conversation about chic villas, how coincidences define a career and the Ibiza vibe.

Discover the beautiful world of tennis and padel on the Costa del Sol, a sun-drenched paradise for sports enthusiasts. This region in southern Spain is known for its lush nature and numerous opportunities to enjoy these popular sports. From luxury resorts to cozy tennis clubs, here are the top locations you should know for an unforgettable sports experience on the Costa del Sol.

Explore the stunning Costa Blanca, renowned for its expansive sandy beaches and azure waters, a true paradise for hiking enthusiasts seeking breathtaking views and natural beauty. Whether you're considering buying a home in Spain or simply vacationing in the region, let us guide you through the enchanting trails of this Spanish coast. Below, uncover the essential hiking routes of Costa Blanca and prepare for an unforgettable adventure amidst this exceptional region.

Discover the Costa del Sol in a unique way: by bicycle. This sunny coastal stretch in southern Spain is renowned for its enchanting mix of sun, sea, and beach, but also as a paradise for cycling enthusiasts. With an extensive network of bike paths and picturesque routes, the Costa del Sol provides the perfect environment for those who enjoy combining sport with nature.

Discover the enchanting Costa del Sol, where sun-drenched beaches meet a vibrant sports culture. From world-class golf courses to challenging cycling routes along the coast and breathtaking hiking trails through natural reserves, this region offers a paradise for sports enthusiasts of all levels. More than just a destination for adventure and relaxation, it's an invitation to invest in a lifestyle infused with Mediterranean charm and well-being. Explore the opportunities of the Costa del Sol - your future home away from home.

Wintering in Spain offers a delightful escape from the cold winter months elsewhere in Europe. With its sun-drenched coasts and pleasant climate, Spain attracts numerous visitors each year seeking warmth, culture, and an active lifestyle. In this blog, we explore why Spain is such a popular destination for winter visitors, from its mild and sunny weather to rich cultural experiences, as well as the opportunity to acquire a second home. Discover how a winter in Spain can broaden your horizons and enrich your life.

Explore the journey of Jean-Pierre (63) and Linda (64) from Hofstade, who decided to sell their home with a large garden and purchase two new apartments: one in Veurne and another in Tenerife. This choice allows them to spend each winter in the pleasant climate of Tenerife, which is not only beneficial for their health but also enhances their overall well-being. They embrace an active lifestyle, often immersing themselves in nature and enjoying sports like surfing and cycling.

Explore the charming cities of Marbella, Málaga and Nerja, which together form an irresistible trio of relaxation on the Costa del Sol. Here, where the sunny climate and expansive beaches create an ideal setting for a restful holiday, several top locations await discovery.

Discover why foreigners continue to invest in Spanish real estate! Recent figures show that 20% of all homes sold in Spain were acquired by non-Spaniards. Britons, Belgians, and Dutch people are playing a crucial role. Learn more about this captivating trend and the challenges facing the Spanish real estate market in our full article.

Spanish real estate continues to appeal to people seeking a second residence. In the first half of 2023, more than 20 percent of all homes in Spain were sold to foreign house hunters.

Spain, with its beautiful beaches, rich culture and wonderful climate, has long been a dream destination for many. But did you know that investing in Spanish real estate as a Belgian can also be a smart financial move? In this comprehensive blog post, we discuss the benefits of buying property in Spain, the different types of investment, the steps you need to take to realise your dream investment, and additional tips to maximise your investment.

Buying a house in Spain is an exciting adventure, but it also brings legal challenges. To ensure that your purchase goes smoothly and you do not encounter any unpleasant surprises, it is essential to be aware of the legal pitfalls that may arise. In this guide, we offer valuable insights to help you avoid these pitfalls and buy a property in Spain with confidence.

Spain, with its enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture, is a dream destination for many considering buying a home abroad. To ensure that your adventure of buying a house in Spain goes smoothly and worry-free, we have compiled an essential checklist. Follow these steps to enter the Spanish real estate market well-prepared and confidently.

ANTWERPEN - The Antwerp real estate broker Nieuwbouw in Spanje will soon open a new office in Kloosterstraat 118, where a parquet store used to be located. Right in the bustling center of the City of Cakes.

Carl Vorsselmans (49) took over the Special Units of the federal police for the provinces of Antwerp and Limburg in 2012. Today, he is a respected real estate agent in Tenerife and Spain. It's a remarkable career switch. How did a former crime fighter end up in the Spanish world of concrete and money? The Antwerp native speaks for the first time about a turbulent period with the Antwerp police, during which he played a crucial role. "During the difficult time of the terrorist threat, I was completely worn out," he says.

There's no getting around it. Every purchase of a property involves additional costs besides the purchase price.

Antwerp, Madrid - The Antwerp-based company Nieuwbouw in Spanje has been honored with the prestigious award for top agent for the Canary Islands in Madrid. The company will soon be opening another branch in Kloosterstraat, Antwerp.

Buying a property in Spain? Then already consider the following questions.

"At NB-ESTATES we attach great importance to a good intake. Only by really talking to our customers can we look for the best possible property." Carl Vorsselmans and Freyke Van Looveren speak from experience. In the seven years they have been building their real estate business in Tenerife, they have always been attentive to what makes their customers dream. And to find out, they take ample time to conduct an intake interview. A round of questions con café.

As business manager of NB-Estates, Carl Vorsselmans (46) helps Flemings in their search for a house or apartment in Tenerife, Costa Blanca, Ibiza and Costa del Sol. In itself nothing noteworthy, were it not for the fact that until 2018 the man was commissioner of the federal police and head of service of POSA Antwerp, the central directorate of special units. Like his girlfriend Freyke, Vorsselmans traded in his police uniform three years ago for an entrepreneurial adventure in real estate.

Buying a property in Spain is a dream for many and everyone has their own reasons for doing so. Are you looking for a profitable investment? A vacation home to spend the summer? Or do you just want to retire by the sea in the land of sunshine and delicious tapas?

Buying property in Spain requires a professional approach and careful planning to ensure that the process runs smoothly. The NB-Estates team has been successfully applying their 8-step plan for more than 7 years.

ANTWERP - Nieuwbouw in Spanje, an Antwerp-based real estate agency, has launched a new project in Tenerife, under the name Nieuwbouw Tenerife. "It is quite an honor for us that our company has been chosen to do this launch and sale," said Carl Vorsselmans of Nieuwbouw in Spanje.

"If it were up to Charlotte and me, we would be living on Tenerife sooner rather than later," Gunther Levi reveals. The singer and his wife lost their hearts to the Canary Island over the past decade and have recently had their own apartment there. Gunther welcomed us for an exclusive tour of the sleek new building with a view of the sea and volcano the Teide.

The number of Belgians looking for a home on Spain's Costa Blanca is rising extremely sharply. This is shown by figures from the region's statistics department. Compared to last year, the number of Belgians looking for a place to live in the region increased by no less than 7.4 percent.

Thank you for the trust and more than great collaboration Gunther Levi and Charlotte! 

One in three homes in the Canary Islands is currently being bought by foreigners. An increase of no less than 75% compared to 2021. Reason for the Antwerp specialized real estate company NB-ESTATES to open a branch in Tenerife, where students of the real estate course of the AP Hogeschool can also gain experience as part of their Erasmus internship.

Are you planning to follow those many thousands of Belgians who bought second homes in Spain in recent years? Then take a moment to consider the costs and taxes.

What are the purchase costs of a property Spain? Check out the percentages of fees.

Figures from the Spanish Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Cities show that non-residents bought 75 percent more homes in the Canary Islands last year compared to 2021. "One in three homes sold in the Canary Islands is currently being bought by foreigners," Carl Vorsselmans and Freyke Van Looveren of New Construction Tenerife, let us know in a comment to our editors.

"Sometimes a train comes by like that where you really have to choose, do you jump or don't you jump."

I ended up looking for a local Belgian specialist who could help us. That's how I ended up with Freyke Van Looveren and Carl Vorsselmans of Nieuwbouw in Spanje. They spent a good year getting everything in order and we are very grateful to them for that, because without them we would have worried often and for a long time."

THE LATEST NEWS - Want to buy your own second home in Tenerife? www.nieuwbouwtenerife.be

INSIDE VIEW. GEERT AND MYRIAM BUILT A DREAM VILLA IN TENERIFE: "NOW THE LAND PRICE HAS TRIPLED"

When buying a property under the Spanish sun, it is interesting to consider how you are going to buy. After all, this can avoid unpleasant or pricey surprises afterwards.

Rising energy prices and high interest rates on housing loans are not stopping Belgians from buying real estate in Spain. "Due to the high energy prices, we see that there are now customers who want to buy a Spanish property because in that country they have to spend less money on heating their home," notes Carl Vorsselmans of Nieuwbouw in Spanje

A total of 5,864 compatriots bought a home in Spain last year. The question is whether Spanish real estate will continue to appeal to Belgians in the coming years. After all, rising interest rates are making it more expensive to borrow for real estate, both at home and abroad.

In our sector (you don't buy bread or a pair of shoes) it is logical that people do a quick check to see what 'meat in the bowl' they have. We find it normal that people google on 'Carl Vorsselmans', 'Freyke Van Looveren', 'Nieuwbouw Tenerife', 'Nieuwbouw in Spanje', 'real estate Spain', 'real estate in Tenerife', 'buying real estate in Spain', ...

FOR BUYERS WITH RESIDENCY IN BELGIUM: Belgium has chosen to export its way of taxing through a k.i. to foreign countries in order to avoid being obliged to tax the real rental income of those residences located abroad.

More and more Belgians are buying a second residence in Spain. Since last year, the tax authorities have been sticking a Belgian cadastral income on that. Too high? Then you must respond within two months. 

Belgians with a second residence abroad will be assigned a cadastral income (KI) for it this year. This new regulation is creating new inequalities, explains Carl Vorsselmans, real estate agent for Spain.

How is the property located in Spain treated by the tax authorities?

With high inflation, we are seeing our purchasing power decline sharply. Interest rates on savings books are falling well short of keeping up with increased longevity. Therefore, savers are looking for alternatives for their savings capital. Spanish real estate seems to be an option.

She is still very young in the organization and working as an inspector in the Kiel district team. 

He already swam through a lot of waters as head of POSA Antwerp. Until a trip to Spain led them down a completely different path. 

Tenerife was already a popular destination for Belgians for a second stay in the sun, but now there appears to be an all-out rush on real estate. 

Freyke Van Looveren: Many declared me crazy, but I am still happy with the choice of entrepreneurship.

Have you always dreamed of staying in a villa like out of the books? Then Villa Christal is undoubtedly the ideal match for you. From all the rooms of this handsome spacious villa you can enjoy a magnificent open view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Belgian tax authorities want to eliminate unequal approach in taxing a second residence located abroad; still not entirely successful? 

Also in Spain, land has a finality or destination. Just as with us one has agricultural land, natural area, industrial land, building land, ...it is the same in Spain.

Each time we approach the end of the year, it is again time to reflect on this tax obligation and tax to be paid in Spain.

Any ownership (even if one does not rent) of a property generates a form of income for the tax authorities.

Madrid - Housing sales reached 50,258 transactions in July this year, according to the Spanish Statistics Office (INE), the highest figure since April 2008, when it reached 50,400. Freyke Van Looveren of the website Nieuwbouw in Spanje confirms the high level of interest and traffic in recent months.

Spain remains a popular vacation destination for many Belgians. In fact, more and more Belgians are heading south to buy property there. But what should you pay attention to when buying a vacation home in Spain?

All advance payments are required to be insured by insurance or a bank guarantee. This is in case construction does not start or is not completed within the agreed period. 

Second residence on Spanish golf estate increasingly popular: "The purchase price is not so different from an apartment by the sea" A lot of Spanish costas are turning Belgian, as more than 3,000 compatriots buy a second residence there every year. Many opt for a getaway on a golf course, although the majority do not even practice the sport. What is the reason for this success and what should you look out for when buying?

In 2016, Carl Vorsselmans was still chasing terrorists like Salah Abdeslam. Today, he and girlfriend Freyke Van Looveren are selling Ibiza's million-dollar villas. The scum of the earth for the mire of the earth. And with an island where real estate is on average three times more expensive than elsewhere, we may use that term. "We have clients who want something here just because it's Ibiza," says Looveren.

No longer the British, but the Belgians are the main foreign buyers of property in the Spanish province of Alicante. And that mainly includes our willingness to dig a little deeper into our pockets for something in between. Freyke Van Looveren from Nieuwbouw in Spanje tells us where we like to stay, what that may cost and what you should watch out for.

In the first quarter of 2021, Belgians spent the most money on homes in the Spanish province of Alicante of all foreigners.

Our residential specialist Bjorn Cocquyt has been visiting leading properties and real estate projects at home and abroad for more than 10 years. In our section Pureliving he likes to give his vision on exclusive living.

At the time, we started our company Nieuwbouw Tenerife. From there we saw the need to be active on the mainland as well. The thing is, a lot of people hesitate between the Canary Island and the mainland for various reasons.

During this special period, in this series on Made in Antwerp, we give the floor to entrepreneurs from the Antwerp region. 

In Flanders Expo Ghent, the Second Home fair starts today. Two remarkable exhibitors are Antwerpers Carl Vorsselmans (45) and Freyke Van Looveren (29), once agents, now brokers for Spanish real estate.

Depending on the type of damage, the term is determined. All those involved (developer, contractor, architect and technical architect) are considered jointly responsible.

The percentages of the fees can always be changed by the government. In general, a distinction should be made whether you are buying a new construction property from the developer or an existing property.

In Spain, the legislation on this is completely different and basically anyone can become a real estate agent. Does that mean that all Dutch-speaking estate agents in Spain are by definition not to be trusted. We certainly don't want to say that, but....