Our discovery of SELECT VILLAS/COSTA BLANCA SELECT was a case of sublime “serendipity”. We stumbled upon Chris and Linda Garwood of SELECT by chance thanks to the sole copy of “Living Spain” we ever bought in which Chris had an ad and an article.
During our first reconnoiter we neglected somewhat the services of SELECT; our time being preoccupied with previously arranged introductions from other estate agents in Javea. We had for no particular reason left them to last and Chris and Linda were, thus, only given a couple of hours to get to know us and our requirements. But Chris and Linda made an immediate positive impression with their insight into, and frankness about, the local market and their quick appreciation and understanding of the type of property we were looking for (we were/are very particular/fussy!). Being suitably impressed we swore to give Chris and Linda a better opportunity and more time on our next viewing trip.
On our next trip we were introduce to their sales negotiator, Sally who took us under her angelic wing and provided excellent and charming care of us throughout - up to the completion of our purchase and beyond.
During our first reconnoiter we neglected somewhat the services of SELECT; our time being preoccupied with previously arranged introductions from other estate agents in Javea. We had for no particular reason left them to last and Chris and Linda were, thus, only given a couple of hours to get to know us and our requirements. But Chris and Linda made an immediate positive impression with their insight into, and frankness about, the local market and their quick appreciation and understanding of the type of property we were looking for (we were/are very particular/fussy!). Being suitably impressed we swore to give Chris and Linda a better opportunity and more time on our next viewing trip.
On our next trip we were introduce to their sales negotiator, Sally who took us under her angelic wing and provided excellent and charming care of us throughout - up to the completion of our purchase and beyond. It was obvious on that decisive trip that SELECT/Sally had given a lot of thought to our pedantic requirements and had put together a splendid choice of properties to view which met most of them. Indeed, had it not been for SELECT/Sally we would not have found the villa we now proudly own and are extremely pleased with, as it is in an area of Benitachell, between Moraira and Javea, which we would never have considered and would have remained unknown to us had Sally not introduced the area to us.
Chris and Linda and their charming colleagues offer an extremely professional, friendly and caring “bespoke” service, where close attention and respect is given to their clients´ individual requirements. They were able to help and guide us in all facets of our venture - as first-time novices - into Spain, from referrals to an excellent firm of solicitors through to recommendations for painters and decorators etc., etc..
If you are looking for a property in the Javea/Moraira area we would highly recommend that you do yourselves a favour and make sure SELECT is your first “one-shop” stop. It is the only stop you will need!
David & Dorothy Norris, Frankfurt/Benitachell – January 2012
We believe it is this approach that makes Select Villas the fastest growing agency in the area, and probably so do you! It has to be part of the business because to get the sale, which your client wants, you have to get the buyer from start line to finishing post which is when the money is paid.
For a buyer from abroad it is difficult enough coping with a major house purchase, let alone dealing with new customs, a different language and bureaucracy and without a network of professions and trades to assist. You removed all that difficulty for us, the buyers, without compromising your professional relationship with your client, thus achieving the right balance.
It would have taken us three times as long and cost a lot more trying to organise everything without your help. For these reasons we could not speak highly enough of you and would certainly recommend you to prospective sellers and buyers.
Anthony and Linda Cooley, Cheltenham/ Moraira - April 2011
"We would like to take this opportunity of thanking Select Villas for helping us sell our villa.
After having a very difficult year, health wise, we decided to we must return to the UK and we knew from the first day we met the staff at Select Villas that they were the firm who would sell it for us. The Partners and all the staff were fantastic and dealt with our interests in a professional and efficient manner. Unlike other agents they gave us hope and confidence to carry the sale through especially bearing in mind the difficult market at the present time. They ensured that we had viewing's from clients that were definitely looking to buy and when clients were brought to the property they were told everything they needed to know and given plenty of time to consider the property.
We also know that they advised our buyer on all aspects of their purchase and put them in contact with the best professionals to look after their interests in what can be a daunting journey.
Throughout the whole journey from start to finish we felt totally at ease and we feel very grateful to the Partners and all the staff for their help. Thank you once again Select Villas".
Andrew & Madeleine Leech, Cumbre del Sol - December 2010
"We had decided to buy in the Marina Alta region about 5 years before we met Chris & Linda. We had enjoyed a walking holiday when based in Castell de Castells and subsequently returned to view property locations several times over the following years. On one occasion, we got as far as the bank manager to discuss finance, but decided to defer any purchase until retirement. With time to explore our search more thoroughly and being familiar with the area, we started to draw up a list of preferred properties for our intended viewing, gathered from several agency websites. It was at this time that we discovered Chris & Linda's website, which not only detailed many appealing properties, but really impressed us with the totally comprehensive, caring, professional and personal service conveyed. We decided immediately to approach them rather than laboriously search for our dream home independently. We were not to be disappointed.
Everything from our point of view went like clockwork. Four very long days were set aside for initial viewings, after which our choice had been narrowed to 2 properties. A weekend of reflection determined our first choice and this was followed by a further 2 to 3 days in the tireless company of Chris & Linda. The final negotiations and formalities were agreed with the builders; a bank account and internet access was set up effortlessly; introductions were also made to solicitors and a currency specialist. An early morning trip to Benidorm to apply for our NIE registration documents confirmed to us how valuable it had been to appoint Chris & Linda, as this necessary visit could have been a very time consuming, stressful experience had it not been for their advanced planning and preparation.
Our new build home is one of 9 properties on a small complex within a mile of Pedreguer. It was structurally complete at the time of making the necessary deposit, and just required our internal choice of tiles, fixtures and fittings. We finalised our purchase and picked up the keys six weeks later on 29th June 2009, since when we have visited our second home for at least 18 weeks in total.
It's ironic that the home we purchased was top of our list a few years earlier before we contacted Chris & Linda. Had we not met them, perhaps we would still be indecisively searching for our dream? We can only endorse what has been quoted in another testimonial; they are the " real deal."
We often wonder why you both continue to work as hard as you do, but in the light of our own experience, we suppose it's because you enjoy doing what you do. You certainly deserve all our gratitude for the big contribution you made to our future happiness.
With apologies for this very late testimonial, and a really big thank you to you both for helping us achieve our dream so painlessly".
Kelvin & Sue Moulder, Bristol / Pedreguer - November 2010
"Having just spent our first weekend in our lovely new holiday home I wanted to take the time to thank you both, and also the viewings with Sally, for the personal attention and care you gave us to ensure the whole process went smoothly. Without your 'handholding' we would have found the whole process quite intimidating and confusing, but because you gave up your time to accompany us to all the official legal visits, it gave us confidence in what was unknown territory for us. We are thrilled with our new home and feel secure in knowing that all the i's have been dotted and t's crossed.
Many thanks and I wouldnt hesitate to recommend you to anyone who wished to buy a villa in Costa Blanca"
Karen & Neil Williams - Monmouthshire / Moraira - Sept 2010
"Spain is a cold country with a hot sun’ according to Chris and Linda Garwood of Costa Blanca Select. We’d like to add that this couple supply all the warmth you could possibly need when the sun isn’t shining.
Just listen to them and trust them and they won’t let you down. They have been there ahead of you and have chosen a beautiful town to live in, Moraira, in the Marina Alta.
Tell them about your dream home and they’ll go to endless trouble to find it for you (even one with a furtling room)! Meeting them for the first time, after emails and ‘phone calls, is already like meeting old friends.
If after your visit/visits you do decide to settle here, then Linda and Chris will be there to help and guide you, making your move to a new country as painless as possible. Endless good advice along with genuine friendship – we want to keep them to ourselves!"
Neil & Jan Brown - Ilkley W. Yorks / Benissa Costa - Feb 2010
"Having purchased our copy of 'Spain' magazine we emailed every advertiser and within 24 hours we had a number of replies, one of which stood out from the rest. Time had been taken to read our criteria thoroughly and every matter we raised was addressed and answered with authority, professionalism and, where appropriate, humour; it was from Costa Blanca Select.
We liaised with Chris and Linda over the next few weeks and arranged to spend a week in Moraira purely with a view to looking at some properties, getting to know the area and Chris and Linda. It was important to us to find out why two people were so willing to spend an entire week with us showing us (over 20 as it turned out) properties, spending hours explaining the purchase procedure, offering endless tips on how to avoid potential pitfalls, recommending solicitors, surveyors, banks etc (all of which have proven to be invaluable), and taking the time to assist us with the more tedious but necessary aspects of moving to Spain.
Six months later (the timings were by our request) we have a wonderful home in the beautiful town of Moraira; the whole process went more smoothly than we could have dreamed of. Before we emailed Chris and Linda we had not heard of Moraira and we had no idea about the property purchasing process in Spain. At no time were we sold anything; there are no catches; there is absolutely no need for any suspicion about the service being offered. We would recommend Costa Blanca Select and, more importantly, two outstanding people called Chris and Linda Garwood, without hesitation"
Chris & Al Longthorne - Ilkley / Moraira - January 2010
"Thank you so very much Chris & Linda for finding me such a lovely home which ticked all my wish list needs. A big thank you also for helping me through a very sad personal loss and taking the load off my shoulders by finding very good tradesmen, an efficient and caring legal consultant, overseeing building and alteration work and generally making my life a lot smoother and happier than it could possibly have been otherwise. I hope your new office is a big success. Your work and friendship are really appreciated".
Jacky Tanner - Andorra / Moraira -
October 2009
"We just wanted to let you know how grateful we are for everything that you have helped us with since our first meeting back in November 2008.
Following our first contact with you to arrange some viewings, we were a little sceptical, as your proposals seemed too good to be true, and when things seem too good to be true, they normally are, however, you are both an exception to the rule and we are so pleased that we chose you to help us find and refurbish our holiday home in Moraira.
From the day when we first approached you our questions have been answered and our queries have been resolved and you have both been so helpful in every aspect of our home purchase and renovation, with advice and introductions to new contacts and recommendations ranging from solicitors to supermarkets. Maybe we could have achieved all that we have without your assistance and on-going monitoring and overseeing, but we are certain that it would have taken us much longer to complete and would undoubtedly have cost us considerably more money. Most importantly for us though it would not have happened as smoothly without your guidance and what has now become friendship.
We assumed that when the purchase was completed that we would “be on our own” with finding a surveyor, builder, pool maintenance company, gardener, TV installer, hotel, B&B, shopping facilities and everything else that was needed, but not at all, you recommended reputable and reliable sources for all of these and we are so thankful for your solid advice. Now that our home is complete, we can’t wait to be there to enjoy it and to spend some more enjoyable times with you both".
John and Sue Starmer - Atherstone / Moraira – Jan 2009
"I met them through a pure stoke of serendipity, their business card was given to me by a couple they had previously assisted. Once contact was established Linda and Chris became my guardian angels in that:-
Thank you both once again".
Brendan Murphy – Croydon / Javea - October 2008
"What can you say about Linda and Chris that has not already been said. When you first meet them it is like meeting old friends, they make you feel so at ease.
They make it very clear right from the outset that they are working for you and want you to be happy with all they do, which is a considerable amount. After just two days of viewing we visited a villa which we just fell in love with. After negotiating the price with the seller's agent we all went off and celebrated!
However they did not just leave us at that point. All the necessary appointments were made and visits to banks, police stations, currency transfer specialists, solicitors and notary etc. were set up and before we left to return to England everything was in order.
Thanks once again Linda and Chris and we look forward to meeting up with you when we return to Spain. Best wishes to you both"
Carol and David Erben - Suffolk / Moraira – March 2009
"Since meeting this beautiful and highly professional couple we are even firmer believers in fate. Our dream finally came to fruition the day we met these two dear people who are now firm friends.
We came across their website just days before our trip to Spain, having made an appointment with another (and I use the term loosely) “agent”. We never envisaged so much assistance and great knowledge from the moment we chose our fantastic home to completion and beyond. They worked tirelessly with only our interests at heart. Nothing, even now, is too much trouble.
Thank you Linda & Chris. No one can hold a candle to you guys and you do exactly what it says on the tin!!! You ARE simply the best!!!"
Alan Martell & Dallas Salsbury-Newman - Northants / Relleu – November 2008
"I read with interest Chris Garwood’s article in your November/December issue, and although we live in France at the moment and are looking to relocate to Spain, there are some parallels here which we thought might interest your readers. But first of all, my Wife and I have met Chris and Linda on two separate occasions when we have been in Costa Blanca to view property and have been very impressed with their attitude, their honesty and their pro-active way of working which seems to be sadly lacking with many agents in Spain and particularly in this area of Southern France.
Chris and Linda’s approach with us, was that they would commit their time to us unconditionally, show us properties within and just above our budget level and show us around the area so that we could get a good feel for where we wanted to buy when the time comes. They even advertised our property for us in one of their full page advertisements, this shows real commitment! On the other hand, one agency in Costa Blanca made it very obvious that, because we weren’t buying there and then, we were a nuisance. Not surprisingly, that agency no longer exists".
Mike & Suzie Broderick - Granes, France – June 2008
"Quite simply Chris & Linda (the two proprietors of CBS) are the real deal! These guys worked really hard to make sure we found exactly the sort of home that we were asking for …and you’ll have to take our word for it, we were asking for a lot!
From first contact through to getting the keys to our new home it was five star service all the way ... well beyond what we were expecting. Chris & Linda don’t just do the property search … they guide you through the whole process … from getting your NIE’s , meetings with solicitors and the final completion process at the Notary’s office ... not to mention airport pickups / drop-offs and accompanying you to all of your selected property viewings. All done in the pleasantest of manners and with a genuine shared excitement in seeing the process through to completion … and it doesn’t stop there … Chris & Linda are also happy to provide you with advice on the local social scene and even where to go to buy that all important BBQ! So how long did it all take? Well in our case from finding the property to actually moving in took exactly 4 weeks!… and it could have been quicker than that if we hadn’t already committed ourselves to visiting all the family before moving out to Spain. We are now busy settling in to our fantastic new home.
So … if you are reading this and seriously considering moving to this part of Spain then we have no hesitation in recommending you to contact Chris & Linda at CBS … these guys really know their stuff!"
Bob & Gill Jones - Jersey C.I. / Monte Pego – March 2008
"Carol & I both appreciate the time and effort that you have put into our project ..... At this point I think it only remains for us to say that we think you offer an excellent personal service, in a very professional and organised way, always on time, always responsive, full of information, clearly very knowledgeable about Marina Alta property and the players in the market place - and excellent company to boot!"
Chris & Carol Swain - Manchester / Moraira – May 2008
"We would like to express our gratitude and sincerely thank you for your efforts and dedication towards helping us find and purchase a property in Moraira. The process was painless, enjoyable and an experience that will stay with us forever.
From the moment with met you at AP7 - E15 Junction 63 toll and continuing to the present day you have helped us through every step of the process, organising bank accounts, arranging for a solicitor, estate agents, NIE numbers, even down to introducing Barton our labradoodle to the local vets. Chris took the trouble to map out and provide directions from Moraira to Santander for our return journey, nothing is too much trouble for either of you.
Our dream of owning a villa in Spain would not have been as easy and as perfect without your assistance, honesty and dedication".
Lorraine, Graham & Barton – Norfolk / Moraira – April 2008
"The personable services provide by Chris and Linda of CBS are more akin to a professional relocation service rather than the more usual "agencies" whose service level declines soon after a sale. CBS have stayed with us every step of the way, including providing a driving lesson to my Mother. I would heartily recommend CBS to anyone seeking a personalised approach to finding that "special place" on the Costa Blanca. Their whole approach is to ensure their clients are happy: that starts with the initial search through to their guidance of the local amenities when you take possession and beyond."
Steve & Trudi Clarke – Leicester / Benissa – November 2007
"We are all in unison in sending to you our utmost thanks for all the effort and help you have given us over the past few months. Your professionalism has been second to none and certainly if the occasion ever arises where we can recommend you to anyone in search of their dream life in Spain then we will certainly do so!"
Liz & Phil Highley - Preston / Sagra – May 2008
