Investors 'should consider villa property in Spain'

Buy-to-let investors looking for a property in Spain should consider purchasing a villa, according to an expert.

Industry specialist CountryLife.co.uk claims holiday home landlord numbers rose by 84 per cent in 2008, illustrating the popularity of the process.

The global economic crisis is leading people to try new ways of investing, claims James Price, a partner at estate agent Knight Frank.

He tells the publication: "Things have changed dramatically. There are people who wouldn't have dreamed of renting their properties a year ago who now take a more circumspect view of things."

The property website advises investors to study the prices tour operators charge for villa property in Spain during peak season, before making an educated decision on which area of the country is best-suited to their needs.

Choosing a detached villa with an outdoor terrace, swimming pool and fantastic views is critical for attracting potential renters, the source concludes.

Estate agent Spanish Algarve Properties recently revealed Spain is the most visited country in the world, with 96 million passengers travelling through the country's airports in 2006, highlighting its popularity with tourists and investors.