Where to live
 

I'm retiring to Spain later this year and initially I was looking round the Torrevieja region but have been put off by things I've read.
I'll be bringing my dog, I don't drive, and for now my Spanish is nil, so I need to be somewhere that has ample walking areas,close to shops, bars doctors etc, and somewhere that I can get by initially with little Spanish, I welcome all replies

Re: Where to live
 

|Hi Cutter, I would advise that you do nothing at full pelt. Take your time; it's not as if the price of Spanish property is going to jump out of control overnight (like in 2003). Spanish property has seldom been cheaper than now and it is unlikely to gazump for the distant future.

You're retiring. Spend some weeks off season in any location you wish. You will know in about 5 weeks if Spain is for you. You can rent per month for €700 + €100 Electricity in good resorts (2 bedroom, centrally located). It might be prudent to rent out your UK property while renting in Spain which will guarantee a profit for you every month. I wouldn't think of selling the UK property either. Things can go pear shape fairly easily, so leave room for a dignified retreat, if necessary.

Re: Where to live
 

Don't believe everything you read, I live in Spain for several years centered around just South of Torrevieja and never encountered ANY problems, yes there are area you would not want to visit at night in Torre itself, but I was there regularly and NEVER felt concerned, certainly the areas just south of Torre would seem to suit you quite well. Areas just North of Benidorm would also suit your requirements, and there is a very good bus service in that area as well.

Re: Where to live
 

Well, maybe you are one of the wolves who doesn't feel unsafe between wolves. If you were the goat, how would that be:sarcasm:.

Re: Where to live
 

What things have you read?

Re: Where to live
 

That Torrevieja is a small benidorm, lots of English yobs on holiday and the housing on the outskirts is like a English council estate, those are the worst things I've read.

Re: Where to live
 

Do you feel that you may not fit in?

Re: Where to live
 

Let's put it this way, I do not go where the young and boisterous go, I prefer somewhere quieter now but within reach of bars, restaurants and shops

Re: Where to live
 

"Leper" who replied to you earlier seems to have the best take on this. Visit at different times of year, visit the various areas coastal and inland. Do a bit of the Airbnb. Money spent this way will save you loads of dosh and an embarrassing retreat later.

There are some good council estates in England, your brush is too wide.

Re: Where to live
 

we have been looking since 2014 around this area and asking prices seem to be quite a bit more for similar properties

Re: Where to live
 

also iv been thinking about this also. A good idea in principle but what about the tax implications? would i not have to declare it so losing 25% or whatever the rate would be?

Re: Where to live
 

a bummer thatYep, bit of a bummer that. You may even have to get a gas safety certificate, life is such a bitch at times:lol:

Re: Where to live
 

Take your time. Rent or stay in cheap hotels until you find a place that suits.

Re: Where to live
 

Cheap hotels would be fine if it was just me but I don't think they would take my dog as well

Re: Where to live
 

One thing about fora such as this the enquirer is never left short personal opinions (including mine). It is no big deal retiring to the Costas and the effort is not onerous either. Common Sense is not a great common denominator among those who took the jump.

Therefore, test the waters as early as possible and make your number 1 decision be to move to whatever area you might like for no less than 5 weeks in the off season. The main reasons are (i) To see if you like the area (ii) You might learn that Spain is not for you.
No. 2:- Many people bought earlier in the century and for some reason or other want to bail out. Negative Equity is probably their main issue and now are cutting losses. Brexit is an issue whether we like it or not. The secession issue in Catalonia is a runner too.
No.3:- Don't sell any of your assets (especially property) in the UK. Consider renting out your UK property and when renting in Spain your costs should be covered in spades.
No.4:- So you must buy in Spain. Wrong! The only thing you must do from here is die. I presume nobody will argue with this.
No.5:- Cost of Living, Tax Issues, Family Issues, Pet Care all are important, but in the ha'penny place compared to Nos. 1 - 4.
No.6:- If you're going to do it, then do it, but use Common Sense.

For the record:- I live on-and-off in Mojacar Playa, Costa Almeria.
(a) Am I glad I chose Mojacar Playa? - Yes -
(b) Do I regret purchasing a Spanish apartment? - Yes -
(c) If I sold my Sp. property, would I still visit Mojacar Playa? - Yes - I'd rent off season.