The Costa Property Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Lorraine and her husband William always dreamed of owning a place in the sun.

In 2017, they travelled to Benalmádena for the first time and after viewing 20 apartments, they found the one that felt right: a peaceful spot with a small sea view and space for visiting family.

For years, their apartment was their getaway from London life. But during the pandemic, unable to travel, they realised just how much Spain meant to them. It was the turning point that led them to retire early, apply for Spain’s non-lucrative visa, and move full-time to the Costa del Sol.

In this episode of The Costa Property Podcast, Lorraine shares the real story behind their move, from the paperwork and planning to the friendships, Spanish lessons, and new routines that now fill their days in Benalmadena.

You’ll hear:

• What it’s really like to go from holiday home to full-time life in Spain
• How they navigated the visa process after Brexit
• The importance of language, community and mindset when settling abroad
• Lorraine's biggest piece of wisdom for those considering the big move

Resources

• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Keep up to date with our latest video drops!
• Book your complimentary call: We’ll walk you through the buying process, talk budgets and timelines, and help you identify which area of the Costa del Sol is right for you: https://tinyurl.com/4ff8ndn6
• Dowload Our Buyers Guide: https://tinyurl.com/3fxmu94c
• Get on our VIP Day Waitlist: https://tinyurl.com/4pa5maue

Want to simply keep in the loop about life in Spain?

• If you want honest, expert advice about family life, relocating or property on the Costa del Sol, be sure to Follow us on Instagram or visit WL Costa Properties for insights on life in Spain.

Related Episodes

• #78 Brexit, Visas & Red Tape: Is It Still Easy for Brits to Relocate to Spain?
• #37 The Spanish NIE Number – Why You Need It and How to Get It

Enjoying the Podcast? Leave Us a Review!

We know life is busy, but if you’ve been loving the podcast, we’d really appreciate it if you could take just a minute to leave us a review.

Tell us:

✔️ What’s been your favorite episode?

✔️ What’s the most helpful tip you’ve learned?

✔️ What do you want to hear more about?

Every review helps us reach more people just like you who are dreaming of a new life in Spain. 

Just head over to Apple Podcasts, hit the rating, and drop us a quick review.

Take the FREE Costa del Sol Location Quiz: 👉 Find out which part of the Costa del Sol is actually right for you in just 30 seconds: https://wlcostaproperties-quiz.netlify.app/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=quiz

Moving to the Costa del Sol and wondering how healthcare really works once you land?

Do you need private or public, and how can you qualify? 

In this episode of the Costa Property Podcast, Sandra and Warner hit the road with Irina from Málaga Expat Consulting to compare Benalmádena’s public and private hospitals and bust the biggest myths expats have about healthcare in Spain.

If the Costa Del Sol is on your horizon and healthcare is make-or-break, listen now to get the facts, shortcuts, and pitfalls so you can relocate with confidence..

You’ll discover in this episode:

• The truth behind public vs private healthcare and why many expats use both.
• Which is the best option for families vs retirees
• Who actually qualifies & when: EU, non-EU and timelines
• Pre-existing conditions and how that impacts your move.
• From paperwork to doctor: how the process works 
• How available is English speaking care?
• Why proximity to hospitals and the Málaga train line matters
• Mistakes to avoid when it comes to healthcare in Spain

Resources

• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Keep up to date with our latest video drops!
• Connect with our Guest: Irina of Málaga Expat Consulting (Irina)
• Book your complimentary call: We’ll walk you through the buying process, talk budgets and timelines, and help you identify which area of the Costa del Sol is right for you.

Want to simply keep in the loop?

• If you want honest, expert advice about family life, relocating or property on the Costa del Sol, be sure to Follow us on Instagram or visit WL Costa Properties for insights on life in Spain.

Related Episodes

• #53 NIE, TIE, Residency? The Essential Guide to Spanish Paperwork (Without the Confusion)
• #37 The Spanish NIE Number – Why You Need It and How to Get It

Enjoying the Podcast? Leave Us a Review!

We know life is busy, but if you’ve been loving the podcast, we’d really appreciate it if you could take just a minute to leave us a review.

Tell us:

✔️ What’s been your favorite episode?

✔️ What’s the most helpful tip you’ve learned?

✔️ What do you want to hear more about?

Every review helps us reach more people just like you who are dreaming of a new life in Spain. 

Just head over to Apple Podcasts, hit the rating, and drop us a quick review.

Take the FREE Costa del Sol Location Quiz: 👉 Find out which part of the Costa del Sol is actually right for you in just 30 seconds: https://wlcostaproperties-quiz.netlify.app/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=quiz

Thinking of buying a property in Spain to use as a holiday rental or investment?

Recent April 2025 legal changes could affect your plans and you might not even know it yet.

In this episode, Sandra sits down with expert property lawyer Patricia Ruiz from My Lawyer in Spain to unpack what every international buyer needs to know before signing on the dotted line. From short-term rental restrictions, tourist licence traps, to community rules- this episode is a must-listen if you're thinking about buying in Benalmádena or anywhere along the Costa del Sol.

You’ll also hear Patricia’s top legal tips for anyone feeling confused about the latest legislation including what to ask, check, and clarify before you buy.

This episode gives you the legal insights most estate agents won’t tell you upfront

You will learn:

• The real differences between short-term and long-term rentals in Spain
  
  
• What the April 2025 legislation means for holiday lets
  
  
• What to do if your community doesn’t allow tourist licences
  
  
• The legal checks every investor should do before buying
  
  
• What to consider if your short-term rental plans get blocked
  
  
• Patricia’s expert advice for buyers who feel uncertain or overwhelmed by recent law changes
  
  

Guest: Patricia Ruiz

Patricia is a respected lawyer with My Lawyer in Spain, working with international clients to navigate the legal side of Spanish property purchases. With deep experience in urban planning, title checks, and usage rights, Patricia helps ensure her clients' plans don’t fall apart post-purchase.

Visit MyLawyerinSpain.com

Planning Your Move to Spain?

If you want honest, expert advice about relocating or buying property on the Costa del Sol, be sure to Follow us on Instagram or visit WL Costa Properties for insights on life in Spain

Related Episodes 

• #65 How a Lawyer Protects Your Spanish Property Purchase with Alex Radford
  
  
• #55 Buying Property in Spain? Why You Need a Spanish Will – with Lawyer Regina Martín

Enjoying the Podcast? Leave Us a Review!

We know life is busy, but if you’ve been loving the podcast, we’d really appreciate it if you could take just a minute to leave us a review.

Tell us:

✔️ What’s been your favorite episode?

✔️ What’s the most helpful tip you’ve learned?

✔️ What do you want to hear more about?

Every review helps us reach more people just like you who are dreaming of a new life in Spain. 

Just head over to Apple Podcasts, hit the rating, and drop us a quick review.

Take the FREE Costa del Sol Location Quiz: 👉 Find out which part of the Costa del Sol is actually right for you in just 30 seconds: https://wlcostaproperties-quiz.netlify.app/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=quiz

Have you ever wondered, Is this it?

Maybe the kids are grown, your career has shifted, or you’ve simply outgrown the version of life you’re living. But what does it really take to start over in midlife... and how do you know where to begin?

In this episode, Sandra speaks with coach and expat Emma Thorne Lees, who supports women navigating identity shifts, burnout, and life transitions - whether that means moving to Spain, changing careers, or reclaiming space for yourself.

Together, they explore what it means to reinvent yourself in midlife.

They explore:

• Emma’s story of burnout and starting over now living in Spain after moves to Australia and Costa Rica
• Why midlife often brings a call for reinvention (and how to tune into it)
• The powerful question to ask before any big life change
• The mindset traps that keep women stuck and how to move through them with self-compassion
• Emma’s 4-phase coaching process and how the Japanese concept of konenki reframes midlife as a time of renewal
  
  

Whether you're thinking of relocating, redefining success, or just asking is this what you really want - this episode is your starting point.

Connect with Emma:

• Website: emmathornelees.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmabreakthroughcoach
• Facebook:  www.facebook.com/EmmaThorneLees
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmathornelees

Blog post mentioned:  https://emmathornelees.com/konenki-an-empowered-approach-to-menopause/

Planning your move to Spain?

If you want honest, expert advice about relocating or buying property on the Costa del Sol, be sure to Follow us on Instagram or visit WL Costa Properties for insights on life in Spain

Related Episodes 

• #11 How To Overcome The Fear Of Moving Abroad With Best Selling Mindset Authors & Ted-X Speakers Donna & Cheryl
• #49 How to Mentally Prepare for Moving to Spain: 5 Key Mindset Shifts That Will Make or Break Your Experience

Enjoying the Podcast? Leave Us a Review!

We know life is busy, but if you’ve been loving the podcast, we’d really appreciate it if you could take just a minute to leave us a review.

Tell us:

✔️ What’s been your favorite episode?

✔️ What’s the most helpful tip you’ve learned?

✔️ What do you want to hear more about?

Every review helps us reach more people just like you who are dreaming of a new life in Spain. 

Just head over to Apple Podcasts, hit the rating, and drop us a quick review.

Take the FREE Costa del Sol Location Quiz: 👉 Find out which part of the Costa del Sol is actually right for you in just 30 seconds: https://wlcostaproperties-quiz.netlify.app/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=quiz

Buying a property in Spain as a foreigner?

It’s the question we get from nearly every client.

In this episode, Sandra is joined by Elena from Martínez-Echevarria, one of the top-ranked legal firms on the Costa del Sol, to reveal the risks buyers face when they try to navigate Spain’s property system alone.

If you're planning to buy in Spain, especially as a foreigner unfamiliar with Spanish law, language, or property practices - this conversation could save you time, stress, and thousands in legal headaches.

Here’s exactly what is covered:

• Do you legally need a lawyer to buy property in Spain or is it just a recommendation?
• What does a Spanish property lawyer actually do behind the scenes?
• Why are foreign buyers more exposed to hidden risks than locals?
• How a Lawyer supports with the reservation contract 
• What’s your #1 piece of advice for someone just starting the buying journey in Spain?

If you want to move forward with clarity, legal protection, and zero nasty surprises - this episode is your starting point.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Get in touch with Martínez-Echevarria  - a full-service property law, immigration & taxation

-Book a property consultation call with WL Costa Properties

Planning your move to Spain?

If you want honest, expert advice about relocating or buying property on the Costa del Sol, be sure to Follow us on Instagram or visit WL Costa Properties for insights on life in Spain

Related Episodes 

• #65 How a Lawyer Protects Your Spanish Property Purchase with Alex Radford
• #55 Buying Property in Spain? Why You Need a Spanish Will – with Lawyer Regina Martín

Enjoying the Podcast? Leave Us a Review!

We know life is busy, but if you’ve been loving the podcast, we’d really appreciate it if you could take just a minute to leave us a review.

Tell us:

✔️ What’s been your favorite episode?

✔️ What’s the most helpful tip you’ve learned?

✔️ What do you want to hear more about?

Every review helps us reach more people just like you who are dreaming of a new life in Spain. 

Just head over to Apple Podcasts, hit the rating, and drop us a quick review!

Take the FREE Costa del Sol Location Quiz: 👉 Find out which part of the Costa del Sol is actually right for you in just 30 seconds: https://wlcostaproperties-quiz.netlify.app/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=quiz

What’s actually going on in Benalmádena in summer when the heat is on and the beach is packed?

In this episode, we’re lifting the lid on what daily life is really like in July and August on the Costa del Sol. From the rhythm shift that happens across Spain, to why property tours slow down, and how locals adapt their schedules, this is the real, lived experience of a Costa summer.

Whether you’re a holidaymaker doing your “try before you buy,” a family exploring relocation, or a digital nomad figuring out if this life suits you long term, this episode gives you the honest perspective of what it’s like to live here when the heat is on!

In this episode, we talk about:

• Hot cars, moped hacks, and burnt arses - our own survival strategies for surviving the heat!
• Daily life in August and what no one tells you about!
• Why August is not the time to view properties
• Why everything slows down after 2pm and what summer really means in daily life on the Costa Del Sol
• Our favourite family-friendly things to do in Benalmádena in August from ferias to markets

Mentioned in this episode:

• Watch our Benalmádena Area Guide on YouTube: WL Costa Properties Channel
• 💌 Get our monthly Costa Digest Newsletter full of local tips and insider insights: Sign up here

Planning your move to Spain?

If you want honest, expert advice about relocating or buying property on the Costa del Sol, be sure to Follow us on Instagram or visit WL Costa Properties for insights on life in Spain

Related Episodes

• #6 The Real Story Behind Fiestas, Ferias, and Bullfighting in Spain with Pablo
• #51 Home on the Costa: How 2 Women Made Spain Their Dream Life (And How You Can Too)

Enjoying the Podcast? Leave Us a Review!

We know life is busy, but if you’ve been loving the podcast, we’d really appreciate it if you could take just a minute to leave us a review.

Tell us:

✔️ What’s been your favorite episode?

✔️ What’s the most helpful tip you’ve learned?

✔️ What do you want to hear more about?

Every review helps us reach more people just like you who are dreaming of a new life in Spain. 

Just head over to Apple Podcasts, hit the rating, and drop us a quick review.

Take the FREE Costa del Sol Location Quiz: 👉 Find out which part of the Costa del Sol is actually right for you in just 30 seconds: https://wlcostaproperties-quiz.netlify.app/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=quiz

Thinking of trading grey skies for Spanish sun but not sure how to make remote work work? 

This one’s for you.

In this episode, we’re joined by Maya Middlemiss, a true pioneer of remote-first life and founder of Remote Work Europe. Maya has helped individuals, global teams, and companies rethink the way they work - long before remote work was trendy. 

Maya has worked across every facet of remote-first work from launching startups, inspiring audiences, guiding teams, freelancing globally, and consulting with leaders!

Now living in Valencia, she shares honest, actionable advice for anyone hoping to relocate to Spain and earn a living remotely.

What we cover in this episode:

• Why getting hired remotely is competitive and what makes you stand out
• How your LinkedIn profile and digital footprint matter more than ever
• Maya's top insights freelancers and remote employees need to know about red tape
• Building a community as a remote worker and why it matters
• Why free advice on Facebook can be costly, and when to pay for the right guidance

Whether you’re six months from moving or already in Spain figuring it out on the fly, this episode will help you take your next step with clarity.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

🌍 Check out Maya’s community: Remote Work Europe

Connect with Maya on Linkedin

Planning your move to Spain?

If you want honest, expert advice about relocating or buying property on the Costa del Sol, be sure to Follow us on Instagram or visit WL Costa Properties for insights on life in Spain

Related Episodes

• #61 How to Land Your Dream Job in Spain: Insider Tips from A Recruitment Expert [That You Won’t Find Anywhere Else]
• #54 The Most Underrated Town on the Costa del Sol? Why We Chose Benalmádena

Enjoying the Podcast? Leave Us a Review!

We know life is busy, but if you’ve been loving the podcast, we’d really appreciate it if you could take just a minute to leave us a review.

Tell us:

✔️ What’s been your favorite episode?

✔️ What’s the most helpful tip you’ve learned?

✔️ What do you want to hear more about?

Every review helps us reach more people just like you who are dreaming of a new life in Spain. 

Just head over to Apple Podcasts, hit the rating, and drop us a quick review.

Take the FREE Costa del Sol Location Quiz: 👉 Find out which part of the Costa del Sol is actually right for you in just 30 seconds: https://wlcostaproperties-quiz.netlify.app/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=quiz

What makes someone leave the heart of Málaga’s historic centre for Benalmádena? 

That’s the question we explore in this week’s episode of The Costa Property Podcast, where Sandra sits down with cultural expert and long-time Spain resident, Hanni Martini.

After a decade of vibrant city life, Hanni made the leap to a new home in Benalmadena on the Costa del Sol.

But why? And was it worth it?

In this episode, Hanni opens up about the move that surprised her own followers, the hidden charm of Benalmádena and Arroyo de la Miel, and the outdated stigma many people still hold about this part of the coast.

You’ll hear:

• Why Hanni left Málaga city after 10 years
• Her honest thoughts on Benalmádena (before and after moving)
• How Arroyo de la Miel feels like an authentic pueblo
• The train line, the amenities, and the hidden magic of Benalmaden
• What Hanni means when she says “I stand corrected.”

Curious About Benalmadena?

If this episode sparked your interest in Benalmádena as a place to live or invest on the Costa del Sol - you're not alone. It’s fast becoming a hidden favourite for buyers.

At WL Costa Properties, we’re here to guide you with zero pressure and deep local knowledge.

→ Book a no-pressure call with Warner to explore what’s possible: :https://calendly.com/warner-0tu/property-advice?month=2025-07

→ Follow us Instagram @wlcostaproperties

Connect With Hanni Martini

Follow Hanni Martini on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannimartiniii

Related Episodes

• #67 Live Like a Local: Spanish Food, Culture & Real Costa del Sol Life with Hanni Martini
• #54 The Most Underrated Town on the Costa del Sol? Why We Chose Benalmádena
  
  

Enjoying the Podcast? Leave Us a Review!

We know life is busy, but if you’ve been loving the podcast, we’d really appreciate it if you could take just a minute to leave us a review.

Tell us:

✔️ What’s been your favorite episode?

✔️ What’s the most helpful tip you’ve learned?

✔️ What do you want to hear more about?

Every review helps us reach more people just like you who are dreaming of a new life in Spain. 

Just head over to Apple Podcasts, hit the rating, and drop us a quick review.

Take the FREE Costa del Sol Location Quiz: 👉 Find out which part of the Costa del Sol is actually right for you in just 30 seconds: https://wlcostaproperties-quiz.netlify.app/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=quiz

Selling your property on the Costa del Sol?

We see time and time again - sellers rushing in without the right plan, and their property sits on the market longer than it should.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

In this episode, Warner shares his 4 Golden Rules that every property owner needs to follow for a smooth, stress-free, and successful sale.

WL Costa Properties have helped hundreds of sellers across Benalmádena, Málaga, and the Costa del Sol sell their home with the perfect buyer.

You’ll learn:

• How to make the right first impression
• How to prepare your property to stand out in a competitive market
• What most sellers overlook when it comes to presentation and buyer psychology
• How WL Costa Properties’ proven strategy gets properties sold across the Costa del Sol
• Why honest feedback and clear communication are key to getting your property sold

Whether you’ve already listed or you’re starting from scratch, this episode gives you the trusted insights to get your Costa del Sol property sold the right way.

Thinking About Selling Your Property?

At WL Costa Properties, we go above and beyond to ensure that your property is placed in front of the people looking to buy at the ideal time in the buyer’s journey.

Our unique marketing approach means that not only does your property get seen by far more potential buyers than other local realtors, but we can ensure that when the property is seen, it is portrayed in a way that ensures buyers sit up and pay attention.

→ Download your FREE Seller’s Guide here: https://wlcostaproperties.net/sellers-guide

→ Book a no-pressure call with Warner: https://calendly.com/warner-0tu/property-advice?month=2025-07

Related Episodes

• #66 Q2 Property Market Update - What’s Really Happening on the Costa del Sol?
• #30 Costa del Sol Property Boom: What’s Happening in the Market and Should You Invest Now?
  
  

Enjoying the Podcast? Leave Us a Review!

We know life is busy, but if you’ve been loving the podcast, we’d really appreciate it if you could take just a minute to leave us a review.

Tell us:

✔️ What’s been your favorite episode?

✔️ What’s the most helpful tip you’ve learned?

✔️ What do you want to hear more about?

Every review helps us reach more people just like you who are dreaming of a new life in Spain. 

Just head over to Apple Podcasts, hit the rating, and drop us a quick review.

Take the FREE Costa del Sol Location Quiz: 👉 Find out which part of the Costa del Sol is actually right for you in just 30 seconds: https://wlcostaproperties-quiz.netlify.app/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=quiz

In this episode of The Costa Property Podcast, Sandra and Warner dive into why Benalmádena is becoming one of the smartest places to buy on the Costa del Sol.

Forget the outdated package holiday reputation… Benalmádena has evolved into a vibrant, year-round destination for families, retirees, and investors alike. 

With amazing transport links, a thriving international community, beautiful beaches, walkable streets, and price points to suit every buyer, it’s no wonder more people are discovering its potential.

In this episode, you will discover:

• Why Benalmádena offers the best of both worlds for lifestyle and investment
• What you can get for your money - from €250k apartments to €1M luxury homes
• The key differences between areas like Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena Pueblo, Torrequebrada & the Puerto Marina
• How Benalmádena’s accessibility, international schools, safety, and walkability set it apart
• Insider tips on how to pick the right area for you

Whether you're house-hunting, relocating, or simply curious about the Costa del Sol property scene - this episode is packed with real, local insight and expert advice.

Thinking About Relocating to Benalmadena?

At WL Costa Properties, we work hand-in-hand with international buyers every day to make your move to Spain feel simple, safe and exciting - not overwhelming.

• Book a free, no-pressure consult with Sandra or Warner: https://calendly.com/warner-0tu/property-advice?month=2024-06
• Follow us on Instagram for insights into life on the costa del Sol: https:www.instagram.com/wlcostaproperties
• Check out our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpkbiK4jq4tuIqT80bwTz1Q

Related Episodes

• #24 Lessons Learned: How to Integrate into Spanish Life and Culture - Tips From Warner and Sandra’s Expat Journey
• #45 The California of Europe? Why 2025 is the Year to Invest in Costa del Sol Real Estate

Enjoying the Podcast? Leave Us a Review!

We know life is busy, but if you’ve been loving the podcast, we’d really appreciate it if you could take just a minute to leave us a review.

Every review helps us reach more people just like you who are dreaming of a new life in Spain. 

Just head over to Apple Podcasts, hit the rating, and drop us a quick review!

Take the FREE Costa del Sol Location Quiz: 👉 Find out which part of the Costa del Sol is actually right for you in just 30 seconds: https://wlcostaproperties-quiz.netlify.app/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=quiz