The Costa Property Podcast

Planning to buy property in Spain but feeling overwhelmed by the viewing process? You’re not alone. A recent survey found that 70% of international buyers feel unprepared when it comes to viewing properties in Spain.  From finding the right location to spotting potential issues during viewings, it’s easy to make costly mistakes - especially if you’ve never done this before.  Property viewings are...

We hear horror stories all the time from potential buyers missing out on their Spanish dream home because of a simple number. This is a crucial step that often catches buyers off guard: getting your Número de Identidad de Extranjero (NIE).  While many buyers think a number can be simple and quick to get, they are often disappointed when things don’t go as fast as they wish - which is why it is cru...

Are you dreaming of owning property in Spain but feeling unsure about the risks involved?  This week, Warner sits down with Gavin J. Gallagher, a real estate expert whose journey includes building a €65 million portfolio, navigating the 2008 crash, and emerging with hard-earned wisdom. From his roots as an architect in Dublin to managing a high-stakes shopping centre in Sotogrande, Gavin reveals t...

In this episode of The Costa Property Podcast, we're going to discuss grieving the loss of a spouse while still holding on to the dreams that you once shared together. Particularly that dream of moving to the beautiful sunny Spain. Our guest, Cat O’Brien , an incredible grief coach, joins us to discuss how grief can intertwine with major life decisions, such as buying a dream property abroad,...

We’ve heard from many prospective homeowners who want to move to Spain but are anxious about navigating a new healthcare system.  It’s a concern we know all too well from our own family’s move. You might have concerns about how the healthcare system works?  What if you don’t speak Spanish? How do you choose between public and private care?  In this episode of The Costa Property Podcast , we tackle...

So you’ve found your dream home, but have you budgeted for what it takes to keep it?  Too many buyers focus on the purchase price alone, only to forget the ongoing costs and to budget for those. In today’s episode of The Costa Property Podcast, we’re digging into the hidden, ongoing costs that catch new homeowners off guard in Spain. From monthly fees to taxes you’ve probably never heard of, we la...

Moving to Spain and looking for love?  Navigating the dating scene in a new country can be an adventure of its own!  In this episode, we sit down with dating coach and podcast host Tara Collins , who brings her wit, wisdom, and wildly entertaining stories to help you navigate the highs and lows of the Spanish dating scene.  Tara helps people navigate the baffling world of modern dating, so they ca...

In 2016, we packed up our life in Ireland and moved to Spain with two young kids in tow. It wasn’t easy—but it changed everything for us.  In this episode of The Costa Property Podcast we’re pulling back the curtain on our biggest challenges, the surprising lessons we learned, and why we have zero regrets.  From transforming our son’s health to building a new life from the ground up, we’ll show yo...

With prices rising and demand outpacing supply, is now really the best time to invest in the Costa Del Sol? In this episode of The Costa Property Podcast , Warner and Sandra break down everything you need to know to make a smart, informed decision.  From insider market trends to essential tips on financial readiness, this episode will help you figure out if now is your perfect moment to buy. What...

In this episode of The Costa Property Podcast, Warner and Sandra Laurie chat with Graham Hunt, founder of Valencia Property, who has been living in Spain for over 25 years. Graham shares valuable insights into the ever-growing real estate market in Valencia and the trends shaping property investments in the region. Whether you're considering relocating to Spain or simply investing in the prop...

The Spanish real estate market and the buying process can feel like a confusing maze if you're not prepared. Words like “Nota Simple” and “NIE” might sound like a different language (because they are!), but ignoring them could cost you time, money, and the dream home or investment you’ve been imagining on the Costa del Sol. In this episode of The Costa Property Podcast, Warner and Sandra Laur...

Moving to a new country like Spain is an exciting adventure, but it comes with its own set of challenges, especially for families with children. Many parents have concerns about how their children will adjust to life in Spain—fitting into a new school, making friends, feeling accepted, and, of course, navigating the language barrier. In this week’s episode of The Costa Property Podcast , we'r...

Have you been researching the Costa del Sol and compiling lists of popular towns, but still feel uncertain about where to buy your ideal home? Have you actually taken enough time to really assess and understand what's important for you in that next step? If you are feeling a bit lost when it comes to the location for your Costa Del Sol home, then this episode is perfect for you! In this episo...

In this episode of The Costa Property Podcast, Sandra sits down with Jessica from Decipher Spain, a relocation expert who turned her own move to Spain into a mission to help others make the leap—minus the stress! Jessica is passionate about guiding people through every step of their relocation journey, ensuring they not only experience the process with support but also learn along the way.  Their...

Nearly 40% of expats find it challenging to adapt to a new culture, and Spain is no exception.  Traditions, social norms, and daily routines here can be quite different from your home country. In this episode of the Costa Property Podcast, hosts Warner and Sandra share their journey of adapting to life in Spain since moving with their young family in 2016. Over the years, they have learned so much...

Ever wonder how to balance work and play, productivity and fun in a sunny climate? For many people who first move to Spain, especially the Costa Del Sol - it can be so hard to stay focused and avoid the lure of the beaches, attractions and come out of “holiday mode” So, how do you actually stay on track and navigate integrating into the new lifestyle? Does the novelty wear off? In this episode of...

Owning a home in Spain can really feel like a dream come true, but if you're not careful, it can quickly turn into a nightmare. Navigating the Spanish property market can be tricky, especially if you're not familiar with the local nuances.  In today's episode of The Costa Property Podcast, Warner uncovers the top 3 mistakes buyers often make when buying in Spain  PLUS - even more im...

In this episode of The Costa Property Podcast, Warner himself is back again in the hot seat as he dives into where to begin your property search, his expert tips and the most common pitfalls you need to avoid. Whether you're searching for a holiday home, an investment, or a new place to call home in the Costa Del Sol, the actual process of starting your search can be extremely overwhelming -...

More and more Americans are flocking to Spain - according to a report by the Spanish Land Registrars' Association, American buyers increased their property acquisitions in Spain by 88% between 2019 and 2022. Here at WL Costa properties, we have helped and supported American clients to find their dream home in the sun and have indeed noted a huge surge in demand from American buyers in Spain....

With soaring inflation and surging property demand, rental rates have almost DOUBLED in Spain over the past decade.   Boasting year-round occupancy and steady rental growth, it's no wonder Costa Del Sol has become a top destination for Airbnb and short-stay rentals. Estepona has the steepest rise with a massive 190% rise in rental prices. However, the tourist licence regulations in Andalucía...

* If you enjoy our podcast and want to support the hosts to keep bringing you great content, the best way to support the podcast is by leaving a rating or review on Apple podcast. It only takes a minute, but it makes a huge difference to help more listeners to discover our show. Click HERE and leave a review * If relocating to Spain is a dream of yours in the not so distant future, you might have...

The Spanish Golden Visa is currently a popular, flexible residency option for people from non EU countries. A major appeal of this visa is the ability to enter and exit the country with minimal restrictions on the duration of stay, which makes it very popular.  If you have been considering taking advantage of Spain’s Golden Visa Program, you may have heard the news that the Spanish Government has...

Whether you’re moving into your new home or planning to turn it into a lucrative rental property or Airbnb, styling and decorating are the next big steps on your journey. In this week’s episode of The Costa Property Podcast, we dive into the essentials of styling your Spanish home.  Many new homeowners, especially those relocating from colder climates, often feel overwhelmed about where to start. ...

With the rise of digital nomads and remote working, more and more people in their thirties and forties are considering moving to sunnier climates such as Spain in search of a better lifestyle. Yet despite their desire, many people let the fear hold them back from making the move solo. In this episode of the Costa Property Podcast, Sandra Laurie is joined by Jamie Rose, who shares his inspiring sto...

In this week's episode, the tables are turned as Sandra interviews the man behind WL COSTA Properties - Warner Laurie. Warner sits down to share the reasons behind the podcast, his business, his values and why WL COSTA Properties is more than just a real estate agent (including a story that is sure to get the eyes watering) With over 20 years experience selling property in the Costa Del Sol,...