The Costa Property Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Relocating to Spain is an exciting adventure, but it’s also one of the most stressful life events. From paperwork to budgeting surprises and finding the right place to call home, there’s a lot to think about (and a lot that can go wrong)

In this episode, we welcome back Irina of Málaga Expat Consulting to share the real tips for a smooth move. 

Having relocated multiple times herself, Irina knows first-hand the challenges and joys of starting fresh in a new country. With years of experience helping expats, she’s the expert you need to navigate everything from paperwork to property and beyond.

From avoiding costly mistakes with paperwork to budgeting for surprises and choosing the right location for your family, Irina shares her 3 expert tips for relocation success.

Plus, hear real-life stories of expats who got it right—and those who didn’t—to help you plan your move with confidence.

 Tune in to Discover:

• [00:04:00] Why moving to Spain feels overwhelming—and how to handle the stress like a pro
• [00:12:20] The #1 mistake people make with relocation paperwork—and how to avoid it
• [00:25:30] The hidden costs of relocating—and why a “buffer budget” is your best friend
• [00:37:45] Why renting first can save you from regretting your dream home purchase
• [00:48:15] The truth about Spanish bureaucracy—it’s not as bad as you think!

Whether you’re a family, retiree, digital nomad, or investor, Irina’s practical advice, personal stories, and insights will leave you feeling prepared to take the next step.

 Links Mentioned:

• Irina’s website: www.malagaexpat.com
• Follow Irina on Instagram: @malaga.expat
• Follow Irina Facebook: Malaga Expat Consulting

Ready To Start Your Own Journey to Spain?

If you're ready to start your journey to Spain or need guidance on finding the right property, you can contact us below for consultations

👉Click here to schedule your free consultation
👉Click here to contact Warner & Sandra on WhatsApp

Roadmap to Buying a Property on the Costa del Sol Digital Course

Purchase our Roadmap to Buying Property on the Costa del Sol Digital Course for step-by-step guidance on purchasing property in Spain that you can complete in your own time.

Want To Keep Up-to Date With Our Expert Insights?

Don’t forget to hit subscribe to The Costa Property Podcast for regular updates, tips, and expert advice on property investment, rentals, and relocation in Spain.

Dreaming of life on the Costa del Sol but worried about taxes? You are not alone - this is a topic that a lot of people find confusing in the initial planning stages, but don’t let confusion hold you back.

Understanding taxes is key to a successful property purchase and a smooth transition to life in Spain. 

In this episode of The Costa Property Podcast, Warner sits down with top tax expert Carmelo D’Andres to give you clear, no-nonsense advice on the taxes that come with buying, owning, and selling property in Spain.

From purchase costs to annual fees, we’re breaking it all down so you can move forward with confidence.

If you’re ready to make the move—or just want to plan smarter—this is the must-listen guide you need.

Tune in to Discover:

• The essential taxes you’ll need to budget for when buying a new or resale property
• How non-residents are taxed on rentals—and the EU tax break that saves money
• The hidden costs of owning property—like IBI and annual non-resident taxes
• Capital gains tax explained—and how to prepare when selling your home
• Why a tax lawyer is essential to avoid surprises and save time and money.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

Carmelo D'Andres: For expert tax advice in Spain, Carmelo works with Martínez Echevarría, a leading international law firm. You can them directly here on this link to get in touch: https://www.martinezechevarria.com/en/wlcosta/

Ready To Start Your Own Journey to Spain?

If you're ready to start your journey to Spain or need guidance on finding the right property, you can contact us below for consultations

👉 Click here to schedule your free consultation

Contact Warner & Sandra on whatsapp 

Roadmap to Buying a Property on the Costa del Sol Digital Course

Purchase our Roadmap to Buying Property on the Costa del Sol Digital Course for step-by-step guidance on purchasing property in Spain that you can complete in your own time.

Want To Keep Up-to Date With Our Expert Insights?

Don’t forget to hit subscribe to The Costa Property Podcast for regular updates, tips, and expert advice on property investment, rentals, and relocation in Spain.

Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and never miss an episode!

Disclaimer:

The views expressed in this podcast are those of the interviewee, a tax expert, and are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute personalized legal or tax advice. The interviewee is employed by a company, and the views shared are not necessarily those of their employer. For advice regarding your specific tax situation, please consult a qualified tax professional.

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 everything you need to know about the Spanish healthcare system, from navigating public and private options to understanding which coverage you’ll need as an expat. 

We are joined by our expert guest Irina of Malaga Expat Consulting, an experienced relocation consultant with over 15 years in Spain.

Irina explains the unique differences between public and private healthcare in Spain, the essential steps for setting up health insurance as a foreigner including insider tips on key documents like the S1 form and common challenges newcomers face.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to Register for Healthcare in Spain: Step by step
• Public vs. Private Healthcare in Spain: Pros and Cons 
• What to Do in a Medical Emergency in Spain
• What If I Don’t Speak Spanish? Private vs. Public Healthcare Systems
• Health Insurance for Non-EU Citizens: Must-know coverage info for UK, US, and non-EU expats.
• Combining Public and Private Insurance: How using both types of coverage can maximise your options.

Connect with Irina and Malaga Expat Consulting: 

Visit Malaga Expat Consulting for tailored relocation support.

Follow Irina on Instagram: @malaga.expat

Ready to plan your move to Spain?

Visit our website to get your Budget Calculator mentioned in the episode!

Click here to purchase our Roadmap to Buying Property on the Costa del Sol Digital Course

Book a complimentary consultation call with Warner

Contact Warner & Sandra on whatsapp 

Rate, review or follow on Apple Podcasts

If you have been enjoying the show, please do leave a quick rating or review! It’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and support more people - just like you - to move to Spain and fulfil their dream!

Click here,scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Follow the podcast so you don’t miss out on the latest episodes.

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 lay out the ongoing costs you’ll need to manage after the purchase. 

With these expert insights, you’ll learn what to expect monthly and annually, plus some unexpected costs that you might not have considered.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to make their dream a reality without any financial surprises after they buy!

What You’ll Learn:

[00:03:31] Why Knowing Your Monthly & Annual Costs Matters

[00:04:20] Community Fees 101: What Do You Really Pay For?

[00:07:46] Spanish Property Taxes: IBI & Basura Explained

[00:10:40] Home Insurance in Spain: What You Need to Know

[00:14:33] Planning to Rent? Property Management Fees

[00:15:21] Pest Control: Is This Something To Consider?

Ready to plan your move to Spain?

Visit our website to get your Budget Calculator mentioned in the episode!

Click here to purchase our Roadmap to Buying Property on the Costa del Sol Digital Course

Book a complimentary consultation call with Warner

Contact Warner & Sandra on whatsapp 

Rate, review or follow on Apple Podcasts

If you have been enjoying the show, please do leave a quick rating or review! It’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and support more people - just like you - to move to Spain and fulfil their dream!

Click here,scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast so you don’t miss out on the latest episodes.

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 can dive back in with confidence!

This episode will have you laughing, learning, and ready to jump into the dating scene in Spain with confidence!

What You’ll Learn:

• Tara’s personal journey moving from the UK to Portugal and then Spain, settling in Cadiz and later Málaga
• The truth behind dating Spanish men and busting common myths
• The cultural differences between dating in the UK/Ireland vs. Spain, from where to meet to first date customs
• How to handle dating apps and avoid the pitfalls of Tinder 
• Tara’s funniest dating experience: Tall Norm and the American Jeep
• A guide to red, green, and beige flags in dating
• Practical tips for expats looking to meet people in Spain

Connect with Tara:

• Website: thetaracollins.com

• Instagram: @thetaracollins

• Podcast: Single Married Guiri on all major platforms

  
  

Ready to plan your move to Spain?

Visit our website for more resources on buying property in Spain.

Sign up for our Roadmap to Buying Property on the Costa del Sol Digital Course

Book a complimentary consultation call with Warner

Contact Warner & Sandra on whatsapp 

Rate, review or follow on Apple Podcasts

If you have been enjoying the show, please do leave a quick rating or review! It’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and support more people - just like you - to move to Spain and fulfil their dream!

Click here,scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast so you don’t miss out on the latest episodes.

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 you what it really takes to make a move abroad.

You’ll get first-hand advice from a family who has been through the ups and downs of moving abroad with young children.

If you’re curious about life in Spain or considering a similar move, this episode offers invaluable insights to help you decide if it’s right for you.

Learn how to embrace change, overcome challenges, and build a new life in a foreign country with confidence!

What You’ll Discover:

• Why We Left Ireland: The real reasons we decided to pack up and move to Spain.

• How Spain’s Climate Improved Our Son’s Health: Learn how the warm weather transformed Oliver’s eczema and asthma.

• Coping with the Challenges of Moving Abroad: How we handled the emotional ups and downs of relocating.

• Adapting to Spanish Culture: Our journey to embracing a Mediterranean lifestyle and its quirks.

• Helping Kids Adjust to a New Country: Tips for helping your kids thrive in a foreign environment.

• What We Wish We Knew Before Moving : The lessons and mistakes we made - and how you can avoid them.

• The Importance of Going All-In : Why fully committing to your new life is the key to success.

  
  

Ready to plan your move to Spain?

Sign up for our Roadmap to Buying Property on the Costa del Sol Digital Course

Book a complimentary consultation call with Warner

Contact Warner & Sandra on whatsapp 

Rate, review or follow on Apple Podcasts

If you have been enjoying the show, please do leave a quick rating or review! It’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and support more people - just like you - to move to Spain and fulfil their dream!

Click here,scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast so you don’t miss out on the latest episodes.

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 You’ll Learn:

• The current market conditions on the Costa del Sol, where prices are rising due to high demand and limited stock.
• Why acting fast and being prepared is crucial in such a competitive market.
• The importance of considering accessibility - why locations like Costa del Sol are more appealing due to flight routes
• Key financial factors to think about, including understanding taxes & mortgage options 
• Warner shares the top pitfalls to avoid when buying a property abroad 

Ready to plan your move to Spain?

Visit our website for more resources on buying property in Spain.

Sign up for our Roadmap to Buying Property on the Costa del Sol Digital Course Waitlist

Book a complimentary consultation call with Warner

Contact Warner & Sandra on whatsapp 

Rate, review or follow on Apple Podcasts

If you have been enjoying the show, please do leave a quick rating or review! It’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and support more people - just like you - to move to Spain and fulfil their dream!

Click here,scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast so you don’t miss out on the latest episodes.

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 property market, this episode offers expert advice on what makes Valencia another attractive option and its differences between other attractive regions like the Costa Del Sol. 

They chat about the city’s growing appeal, recent property trends, and tips on how to make your move smoother!

What You’ll Learn:

• How Valencia has become a hot property market post-COVID, with strong demand for Airbnb conversions and commercial spaces.
• The surge in American buyers and other international investors looking for a slice of the Valencian lifestyle.
• Key Trends in the Valencia Market
• Graham's #1 tip for avoiding a surprise tax bill when moving to Spain after selling a property.
• The differences between Valencia and other Spanish regions like the Costa del Sol and how local regulations are affecting real estate.

Get in Touch with Graham:

Website: Valencia-Property.com

Podcast: Valencia Property Podcast

Social Media: Find Graham on Instagram, Twitter, and other platforms under @GRAHUNT.

Ready to plan your move to Spain?

Visit our website for more resources on buying property in Spain.

Sign up for our Roadmap to Buying Property on the Costa del Sol course waitlist.

Book a complimentary consultation call with Warner

Contact Warner & Sandra on whatsapp 

Rate, review or follow on Apple Podcasts

If you have been enjoying the show, please do leave a quick rating or review! It’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and support more people - just like you - to move to Spain and fulfil their dream!

Click here,scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast so you don’t miss out on the latest episodes.

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 Laurie break down the essential terminology you need to know before you even think about signing on the dotted line. 

Understanding these common Spanish real estate terms could be the difference between a smooth ride and a costly mistake. 

So, if you are serious about buying in Spain, tune in to get the clarity you need from the experts so that you can move forward confidently with your big purchase in Spain!

You’ll learn:

• Why understanding terms like Nota Simple, NIE, and Notario are crucial to avoid costly misunderstandings.
• Essential Spanish real estate lingo: Terms buyers will face and why getting familiar with these words is the first step toward a successful purchase.
• The role these terms play in the buying process and how they can impact the timeline and legality of your transaction.

Inspired to begin your move to Spain?

Sign up to our digital course waitlist: Roadmap To Buying A Property On The Costa Del Sol

Download our FREE Buyers Guide HERE

Book a complimentary call with Warner HERE

To follow WL Costa Properties on Instagram click HERE

To check out WL Costa Properties Website click HERE

Rate, review or follow on Apple Podcasts

If you have been enjoying the show, please do leave a quick rating or review! It’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and support more people - just like you - to move to Spain and fulfil their dream!

Click here,scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast so you don’t miss out on the latest episodes.

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're joined by Andrea Robson, an international educator with over 26 years of experience in teaching and leading schools across the globe. As a certified coach, Andrea has worked extensively with families to support children in adapting to new educational environments. 

You’ll learn:

• How to prepare your children emotionally and mentally for the move to Spain.
• Key factors to consider when choosing a school in a foreign country.
• The importance of involving the whole family in the integration process.
• Tips for helping your child make friends and feel comfortable in a new school environment.
• The role of parents in ensuring a successful transition for their children.
• Why it’s crucial to maintain an open dialogue with the school about your child’s needs.
• Strategies for parents to also find their place and build connections in a new country.

Whether you’re already in Spain or planning your move, this episode is packed with practical advice to help your family thrive in your new surroundings.

Resources Mentioned:

[Andrea Robson’s Website]

Inspired to begin your move to Spain?

Book a complimentary call with Warner HERE

To follow WL Costa Properties on Instagram click HERE

To check out WL Costa Properties Website click HERE

Rate, review or follow on Apple Podcasts

If you have been enjoying the show, please do leave a quick rating or review! It’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and support more people - just like you - to move to Spain and fulfil their dream!

Click here,scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast so you don’t miss out on the latest episodes.