It’s a great time to buy A Place In The Sun!

A Place In The Sun – Winter Sun returns to our screens and presenter Sara Damergi reckons it is a good time to buy abroad.

It was a property bubble that burst the dreams of many a sun-seeking Brit. The global recession saw prices plummet, with many who’d bought property abroad left shattered.

As A Place In The Sun – Winter Sun returns, though, presenter Sara Damergi reckons there are signs of a brighter European future. But she’s warning those seeking a home abroad that price isn’t the only thing to consider.

Sara said: “Most of the local agents I have spoken to Europe-wide have indicated a cautious but clear upturn in expats buying property, At the moment Spain and the Costas are still the number one location for applicants to the show.

“You can see why as prices in overdeveloped areas have dropped by as much as 50%. But I wouldn’t recommend buying in an area just because it’s cheap.

“Relocation is about integrating and lifestyle as much as it is the property. So make sure you aren’t basing your whole decision on price. Also think about resale potential.

“If you change your mind and want to sell later on and the market hasn’t picked up sufficiently you will have trouble selling in an overdeveloped area where supply outstrips demand. Weigh things up.”

The various versions of the Channel 4 series have proved hugely popular with viewers.

“I’m delighted to be part of the show,” says 34-year-old Sara.

“It encompasses so many areas of life that I’m passionate about property, travel and people achieving their dreams. I think the reason the show has been such a longstanding success is because the goals are achievable for everyone.

“We have everyone on this series, from people in their 20s to those retiring abroad to people with disabilities who want that extra guidance on getting the lifestyle as well as the property right.

“This time round we have seen a range of properties from one-bedroom flats in Malta to fincas in rural Spain that need renovation.”

Sara, who lives in London with her dog Thor, says renovation is definitely something she knows about.

“My home is currently mid-refurb. I bought it as a doer-upper. I have brought out some of the character features, like the original floorboards and the exposed brick fireplace. Being in London I’m lucky enough to have a garden, which I love. It’s not my ‘forever home’ but it’s Mr Right for now!”

A Place In The Sun – Winter Sun goes out every weekday at 2.10pm on Channel 4.