In a world dominated by “volatile influencers“, Christie’s is an unquestionable benchmark of what is valuable. Christie’s has been valuing, auctioning, selling and creating value in luxury for 250 years. In the same way, this firm sets the real trend in the luxury real estate sector. You only need to visit any of Christie’s websites around the world to see the very high standard of properties.
Costa del Sol Christie’s International Real Estate is the exclusive subsidiary of Christie’s international Real Estate for the Costa del Sol. Their portfolio has to pass Christie’s quality standards, so they are in tune with the brand value.
They have a network of 900 Christie’s offices in 50 countries, with the option of reaching every major fortune on the planet. That’s something other agencies in Marbella can’t offer.
Who is Hans Veenhuijsen?
I am a businessman and a family man. Currently my passion is running Christie’s International Real Estate Costa del Sol. I was born in Holland and have been in the business world since 1998, especially in the luxury real estate sector.
In 2008 I landed in Marbella on holiday and fell in love with the amazing Mediterranean and cosmopolitan lifestyle of the place. I decided to open a branch of Christie’s in the town. Today, my team and I work to offer the most exclusive luxury property portfolio on the Costa del Sol and the most exquisite customer service. Of course, always keeping in mind the aesthetic and quality standards that Christie’s is known for.
And how is 2023 shaping up for you?
In a word: exciting. We have expanded our team and just this summer we moved to a bigger office on the Golden Mile. Not only have we created a space worthy of our clients, but also a workplace more in line with our new objectives. We closed a great 2022 and it was time to grow. It was a decision in the right direction as this year’s figures for the first quarters of 2023 already exceed those of the previous year.
What are the strong points when choosing a luxury property?
First, of course, being well advised by a reputable real estate agency. Then, in order of importance, I would say that you have to start with a great location, as well as first-class construction guarantees. It is also good to think about whether in the future the property would have a good resale value.
From there, for each client their “must haves” vary. There are those who want to be right on the beach or those who prefer golf. There are those who value a great interior design or, on the contrary, those who prefer to redecorate the entire property.
Being on the Costa del Sol, I would particularly value light as the protagonist. Natural light and views are intangible luxuries.
And on the seller’s side, what advice would you give to the owner of a luxury property when putting it up for sale?
It is essential to know in a realistic way what product is available. The first thing to do is to value the property correctly according to the market. Then draw up a good, individualized marketing plan to get the luxury property to the right clients. Large fortunes are usually owned by very discreet individuals and are not in the general real estate databases. Although it may seem obvious, if you have a luxury property you must deal with luxury experts.
As with any product for sale, especially high-end ones, the packaging is critical. Sometimes investing in a few upgrades and a touch of expert decoration goes a long way in the luxury world. The sale is achieved more quickly, and the property may also appreciate in value.
What do you consider to be the top areas to buy on the Costa del Sol?
The Golden Mile, with its sub-areas such as Sierra Blanca, Cascada de Camoján or Puente Romano are safe investments. The prestigious marina of Puerto Banús and its neighbor Nueva Andalucía are also top of the list. And, of course, the urbanizations around the Villa Padierna Hotel such as La Zagaleta remain at the top of the rankings.
It depends a lot on what the client is looking for. A penthouse with sea views in an urbanization full of luxury community services is not the same as a secluded mansion, in the middle of nature, with a high level of privacy and a lot of square meters to enjoy. Luxury is sometimes a very personal concept, but, curiously, we all have the instinct to recognize it.
What do you think of the area that Vista Lago is in Real de La Quinta?
Vista Lago is an international award-winning residential development in a fair way. There are other development options in and around the mountains of Marbella, but they don’t have as many elements working in their favor. Not only is it a place with breathtaking views, world-class golf and only 15 minutes from the coast, but so much architectural and decorative care has been taken that the result is unique. The area is totally consolidated now with La Zagaleta and La Quinta as neighbors.
What prompted Christie’s Costa del Sol to choose to work alongside BRIGHT developments?
Primarily, that BRIGHT’s properties pass Christie’s high standard of quality. On BRIGHT’s website we find “(…) exceptional designs for exceptional people (…)”. That is true. We find villas at BRIGHT that not only have dream locations but are also sophisticated homes. The client profile we work with immediately appreciates excellence.
