0:00:02 > 0:00:04- Paradise!- Absolutely.
0:00:04 > 0:00:08What if you could live abroad in winter for the same cost...
0:00:09 > 0:00:11..as living in the UK?
0:00:11 > 0:00:14This is priced at 595 per month.
0:00:14 > 0:00:15Is that all?
0:00:15 > 0:00:18By renting a piece of paradise...
0:00:18 > 0:00:20Unbelievable. Wow! This is amazing.
0:00:20 > 0:00:25..you could swap sleet and snow... for sun and sand.
0:00:25 > 0:00:28- Right. Let's go and have a look at some properties.- Well, absolutely.
0:00:31 > 0:00:33Get Away For Winter teams up sun-seekers with a
0:00:33 > 0:00:35local property expert...
0:00:35 > 0:00:37- Can you see yourself in here? - I can, yeah.
0:00:37 > 0:00:40..to find their perfect rental retreat.
0:00:40 > 0:00:42It's like you're on holiday all the time.
0:00:43 > 0:00:46Together, they'll leave no stone unturned...
0:00:46 > 0:00:48This is unbelievable, isn't it?
0:00:48 > 0:00:53..in order to find and fund their dream winter getaway.
0:00:53 > 0:00:56This is what I was dreaming of and didn't even think existed.
0:01:04 > 0:01:09If you're being honest, the UK's climate can be tough to bear,
0:01:09 > 0:01:12and two sun-seekers looking to get away for the winter
0:01:12 > 0:01:14are husband and wife, Stephen and Anne.
0:01:14 > 0:01:16Married for 32 years.
0:01:16 > 0:01:18- Yeah.- Is that right?
0:01:18 > 0:01:21- Uh-huh.- Oh, that's a good start. - We met when we were 17 and 18.
0:01:21 > 0:01:23- Yeah, well done you!- Yeah.
0:01:24 > 0:01:27They're hoping to leave behind the wet and cold of Eaglesham
0:01:27 > 0:01:29on the outskirts of Glasgow.
0:01:29 > 0:01:31Anne, you want a cup of tea?
0:01:31 > 0:01:35- Yeah.- Coffee?- Can I get coffee, Stephen, please?
0:01:35 > 0:01:38Accountant Anne and labourer Stephen have loved raising their daughter,
0:01:38 > 0:01:40Melissa, in the village.
0:01:41 > 0:01:44But with an average winter temperature of just five degrees,
0:01:44 > 0:01:47and with only seven hours of daylight,
0:01:47 > 0:01:50it's a hard life if you work outdoors.
0:01:50 > 0:01:53See getting up in the morning in December, January,
0:01:53 > 0:01:56looking out the window and there's frost, snow
0:01:56 > 0:01:57and I'm going to work in that...
0:01:57 > 0:01:59He's got to continue in it as well.
0:01:59 > 0:02:02I'm fed up with this, basically.
0:02:02 > 0:02:05I just... I don't want to spend another winter here.
0:02:05 > 0:02:10It will also offer Anne a much-needed change in lifestyle.
0:02:10 > 0:02:11I've now got my health issues.
0:02:11 > 0:02:17I've got osteoarthritis and I feel the difference
0:02:17 > 0:02:19in these cold, damp days.
0:02:19 > 0:02:21With Melissa now having flown the nest
0:02:21 > 0:02:25and running her own hair salon, Anne and Stephen feel the time is right
0:02:25 > 0:02:28to leave the cold of Scotland behind.
0:02:28 > 0:02:30They've been talking about something like this, like,
0:02:30 > 0:02:34for years and years, so, I just think it's about time
0:02:34 > 0:02:35that they did it.
0:02:35 > 0:02:38It's only a flight away.
0:02:38 > 0:02:41And if all goes well, this could become the permanent move abroad
0:02:41 > 0:02:43that they've been talking about for years.
0:02:43 > 0:02:47It's not as if we're just going to sit and relax and do nothing,
0:02:47 > 0:02:50because we can't afford financially to do that anyway.
0:02:50 > 0:02:52We're not thinking of retiring,
0:02:52 > 0:02:55we're thinking of changing our lifestyle,
0:02:55 > 0:02:57but still be able to do some work.
0:02:57 > 0:02:59An income is still important for Anne and Stephen,
0:02:59 > 0:03:03and making this venture work financially is their top priority.
0:03:04 > 0:03:08While abroad, Stephen plans to pick up work as a golf caddy
0:03:08 > 0:03:09or indeed in a local bar.
0:03:10 > 0:03:14And as she's self-employed, Anne can do her book-keeping from anywhere.
0:03:14 > 0:03:18She's also recently embarked on a new career in hypnotherapy
0:03:18 > 0:03:21and life coaching, most of which she can do online.
0:03:23 > 0:03:25So, if I get good internet connection wherever I go,
0:03:25 > 0:03:28I'll be fine, yeah.
0:03:28 > 0:03:31Longer term, they plan to sell their house in Eaglesham
0:03:31 > 0:03:34and will either use that money to downsize in the UK
0:03:34 > 0:03:36or to set themselves up abroad.
0:03:37 > 0:03:40If they wanted to go down the rental route in the meantime,
0:03:40 > 0:03:43local estate agents estimate they could generate
0:03:43 > 0:03:46around £800 a month for their semidetached home.
0:03:48 > 0:03:50If we do it, we'll make it a success, cos everything we've done
0:03:50 > 0:03:54together as the couple and as a family has been successful.
0:03:54 > 0:03:57- Yeah.- So, everything we do do... - We work hard at it...- We do it.
0:03:57 > 0:03:59- ..we make things work.- Yeah.
0:03:59 > 0:04:04And that's the attitude that we've got to take, I think.
0:04:04 > 0:04:07Anne and Stephen estimate they they'll save around £100 a month
0:04:07 > 0:04:11on utilities and petrol costs while they're away.
0:04:11 > 0:04:13Which, along with their respective incomes,
0:04:13 > 0:04:16means they're setting their winter sunshine budget
0:04:16 > 0:04:18at £1,000 per month.
0:04:18 > 0:04:21Now, this will cover all their costs, including food,
0:04:21 > 0:04:24transport and entertainment.
0:04:24 > 0:04:28They're allocating 400-600 of this for accommodation and bills,
0:04:28 > 0:04:30so they have their finances sorted, and the destination
0:04:30 > 0:04:34they have in mind has been very dear to them since they first visited
0:04:34 > 0:04:36on honeymoon.
0:04:36 > 0:04:40Well, it was a surprise to me where the honeymoon destination was,
0:04:40 > 0:04:45way back in 1985, and it was Benalmadena in the Costa del Sol.
0:04:45 > 0:04:47We'd both never been there before.
0:04:47 > 0:04:50When we got there, it was just gorgeous.
0:04:50 > 0:04:54It's busy, it's quiet, it's got a bit of both, you know,
0:04:54 > 0:04:56and there's some nice golf courses round about.
0:05:00 > 0:05:02Anne and Stephen are seeking the winter sunshine
0:05:02 > 0:05:05on Spain's southern coastline, in Benalmadena.
0:05:10 > 0:05:14Sandwiched between Marbella to the west and Malaga to the east,
0:05:14 > 0:05:17Benalmadena has grown to become one of the Costa del Sol's
0:05:17 > 0:05:19prime holiday spots.
0:05:19 > 0:05:23It's a place which enjoys a sub tropical climate,
0:05:23 > 0:05:27with hot summers and warm winters averaging 17 degrees Celsius
0:05:27 > 0:05:28over the winter months.
0:05:30 > 0:05:33Benalmadena stretches from its old town,
0:05:33 > 0:05:35on the slopes of sierra de Mijas,
0:05:35 > 0:05:37down to the more built-up tourist areas on the coast.
0:05:39 > 0:05:43In the centre and at the marina is where most of the action is,
0:05:43 > 0:05:46with clubs, bars, restaurants and shops
0:05:46 > 0:05:49catering to the hundreds of thousands of annual visitors.
0:05:50 > 0:05:53And a man who knows Benalmadena very well
0:05:53 > 0:05:55is property agent Mike Navas,
0:05:55 > 0:05:57who along with his wife, Sharon, runs a business
0:05:57 > 0:06:00in sales and rentals.
0:06:00 > 0:06:04We came out here in 1994
0:06:04 > 0:06:07and did what I really always wanted to do here,
0:06:07 > 0:06:09which was to get into real estate.
0:06:10 > 0:06:14Mike will be showing Anne and Stephen four rental properties
0:06:14 > 0:06:16and introducing them to just what the area has to offer.
0:06:18 > 0:06:20What's on offer at the moment, obviously,
0:06:20 > 0:06:23is very much hinged on the budget.
0:06:23 > 0:06:27What can be a couple of hundred euros for a studio down on the coast
0:06:27 > 0:06:31all the way up to a couple of thousand a week
0:06:31 > 0:06:35for an independent villa with its own pool.
0:06:35 > 0:06:37Anne and Stephen are eagerly standing by
0:06:37 > 0:06:39for a video call from Mike.
0:06:39 > 0:06:41Only one of them, of course, will be joining him
0:06:41 > 0:06:43on the rental search in Spain,
0:06:43 > 0:06:45so this is their opportunity to let him know what they're
0:06:45 > 0:06:48both looking for exactly from a winter rental.
0:06:50 > 0:06:55- Hi! How are you?- Hi, there. - Hi, how are you?- I'm fine, thanks.
0:06:55 > 0:06:59- How are you?- I'm fine.- Fine, thank you.- My name is Mike Navas.
0:06:59 > 0:07:02- I'm Anne.- Hiya, and I'm Stephen. Pleased to meet you.
0:07:02 > 0:07:04Very pleased to meet both of you.
0:07:04 > 0:07:08So, what kind of accommodation are Anne and Stephen hoping to find?
0:07:08 > 0:07:12Ideally, we were hoping for two bedrooms.
0:07:12 > 0:07:15We're looking for something that's got good internet access as well.
0:07:15 > 0:07:17We're not bothering about a swimming pool
0:07:17 > 0:07:21because we will be out and about, like doing our own walking
0:07:21 > 0:07:25- and we'll be walking around the beach quite a lot as well.- Yeah.
0:07:25 > 0:07:28The couple are hoping to take someone very special away
0:07:28 > 0:07:31with them, who may have a bearing on the search.
0:07:31 > 0:07:34- We've got a dog.- Just a small dog.
0:07:34 > 0:07:38Right, so, if there's properties there that's pet friendly.
0:07:38 > 0:07:43A lot of owners, unfortunately, a lot of them do not allow pets.
0:07:43 > 0:07:48- OK.- If it's a small dog, well, then we've got much better chances.- Yeah.
0:07:48 > 0:07:51So Rory, the family's Yorkshire terrier, is small
0:07:51 > 0:07:55and he's also to join Anne and Stephen on their winter adventure.
0:07:55 > 0:07:59Who's the lucky one that's coming over to view some properties?
0:07:59 > 0:08:01The one that's got the permanent smile on her face!
0:08:01 > 0:08:05- The one that's smiling!- Yeah. - Yay!
0:08:05 > 0:08:08Well, I look forward to meeting you in person, Anne.
0:08:08 > 0:08:11The couple's budget for accommodation is hopefully between
0:08:11 > 0:08:14£400 to £600 a month, but will this be enough
0:08:14 > 0:08:16for such a popular destination?
0:08:18 > 0:08:21That is a bit on the low side, to be honest, really.
0:08:21 > 0:08:22Is there any movement on that budget?
0:08:22 > 0:08:25For instance, we can show you some things that are a little bit more
0:08:25 > 0:08:28- than that.- When Anne comes over to see you and maybe we see something
0:08:28 > 0:08:31- that is a wee bit dearer, this is when...- We can decide then.
0:08:31 > 0:08:33- We can decide then.- We're going to get to work now,
0:08:33 > 0:08:37so very, very pleased to meet you and let's hope we can find
0:08:37 > 0:08:39- the right place for you when you come out.- Thanks very much.
0:08:39 > 0:08:43- It was lovely to meet you. - Thank you.- And I'll see you soon.
0:08:43 > 0:08:45- Take care.- Bye!- Bye.
0:08:47 > 0:08:49He seems confident and that's what I like about him.
0:08:49 > 0:08:52He's not going, "Oh, you can't get that. Oh, no."
0:08:52 > 0:08:55- Giving us negative vibes. - He was honest with us.
0:08:55 > 0:08:57- Yeah.- He was upfront. He said that might be...
0:08:57 > 0:08:59You might not be able to get that on your budget.
0:08:59 > 0:09:02But it's like, well, just if you want to see for us,
0:09:02 > 0:09:05see if you can get that. So, we'll see.
0:09:06 > 0:09:08Although they're open to being flexible,
0:09:08 > 0:09:12Anne and Stephen would like to pay under £600 a month
0:09:12 > 0:09:14for their winter sunshine accommodation.
0:09:15 > 0:09:18They're hoping that Mike will show them a two-bedroom property
0:09:18 > 0:09:22with good, reliable internet connection, which is pet friendly.
0:09:23 > 0:09:26So while Stephen remains behind with Rory,
0:09:26 > 0:09:28it'll be up to Anne to make sure they find just what
0:09:28 > 0:09:30they're looking for in Benalmadena.
0:09:36 > 0:09:39Leaving poor Stephen behind in chilly Scotland,
0:09:39 > 0:09:41Anne has flown three and a half hours from Glasgow
0:09:41 > 0:09:43to the Costa del Sol.
0:09:44 > 0:09:47This is living my dream now.
0:09:47 > 0:09:51Just instantly felt as if it was like home from home.
0:09:51 > 0:09:55It just felt right and it still feels right.
0:09:55 > 0:09:59Property agent Mike is on his way to meet Anne for the very first time.
0:09:59 > 0:10:03As Mike doesn't drive, Javier will be their chauffeur.
0:10:03 > 0:10:07When I spoke to Anne and Stephen, they gave us quite a tough task.
0:10:07 > 0:10:10It was quite a low budget for really what they were looking for.
0:10:10 > 0:10:14Now it comes to the crunch time, where hopefully
0:10:14 > 0:10:16we're going to show her around and hopefully she's going to like
0:10:16 > 0:10:18the properties that we show her.
0:10:18 > 0:10:20We're both relying on Mike.
0:10:20 > 0:10:22We've told him what we are looking for,
0:10:22 > 0:10:25so I've got every confidence in him that he'll pull something out
0:10:25 > 0:10:26the bag for us.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33- Hello.- Hello.- You must be Anne. - Yes.- I wouldn't have recognised you.
0:10:33 > 0:10:37- Hello, how are you?- Lovely to meet you in person.- Yes, you too.
0:10:37 > 0:10:39Ready and set to go, ready to look at the first property?
0:10:39 > 0:10:42- Yes, can't wait.- Can't wait? Lovely. Here's your chariot.
0:10:43 > 0:10:45Thank you.
0:10:45 > 0:10:46- Hi.- Hello.
0:10:48 > 0:10:49It's a lovely sunny day.
0:10:49 > 0:10:53- Off we go.- OK. Thank you. - All systems go.
0:10:53 > 0:10:57At each property, Anne will video call Stephen back in Scotland
0:10:57 > 0:11:00to make sure that they both get what they want for the £600 budget.
0:11:02 > 0:11:06The budget really is in the one-bedroom class
0:11:06 > 0:11:08rather than the two-bedroom.
0:11:08 > 0:11:09That's absolutely fine.
0:11:09 > 0:11:12We wouldn't mind staying in a one-bedroom, as long as
0:11:12 > 0:11:15- there was the sofa bed...- Yes. - ..because that way it would
0:11:15 > 0:11:18just be short stays, people would just be coming for short stays.
0:11:18 > 0:11:19Exactly, exactly. Yes.
0:11:20 > 0:11:24Anne and Stephen know parts of Benalmadena very well.
0:11:24 > 0:11:27Their preferred area is around a mile west of the marina
0:11:27 > 0:11:30because it's just that little bit quieter and still has everything
0:11:30 > 0:11:32close by.
0:11:32 > 0:11:37And property one is just 15 minutes walk to their dream location
0:11:37 > 0:11:39and less than five minutes to the seafront.
0:11:40 > 0:11:44The first place that we're going to see here is a complex,
0:11:44 > 0:11:47which really covers you for everything.
0:11:48 > 0:11:50The first property is on the third floor
0:11:50 > 0:11:53of this centrally located complex.
0:11:53 > 0:11:56The block itself has around 1,000 apartments.
0:11:56 > 0:11:58It has a 24-hour reception
0:11:58 > 0:12:01and boasts five swimming pools, no less,
0:12:01 > 0:12:04as well as extensive mature gardens,
0:12:04 > 0:12:07perfect for walking their beautiful small dog.
0:12:09 > 0:12:12Well, here we are. This is the first one.
0:12:12 > 0:12:15- This is the Benalmadena beach apartment.- OK.
0:12:15 > 0:12:18This one-bedroom apartment, although compact, is well-equipped
0:12:18 > 0:12:22and has everything Anne and Stephen would need for a longer stay.
0:12:22 > 0:12:26It's a small little micro-kitchen, as they call them here in Spain.
0:12:26 > 0:12:28This is Stephen's domain.
0:12:28 > 0:12:30- Oh, is it really?- Yes. - I'm talking to the wrong man.
0:12:30 > 0:12:32Literally!
0:12:32 > 0:12:35The living room is equipped with a sofa bed for guests
0:12:35 > 0:12:38and a television with four British channels.
0:12:38 > 0:12:41- It does have air conditioning... - Yes, saw that.
0:12:41 > 0:12:44- ..and heating.- That's good.- It is sometimes needed in winter time.
0:12:46 > 0:12:48The bathroom has recently been updated,
0:12:48 > 0:12:50and the bedroom is a double.
0:12:52 > 0:12:55Although this apartment shares the communal outside spaces
0:12:55 > 0:12:58around the building, it does have its own private balcony
0:12:58 > 0:13:00with spectacular sea views.
0:13:02 > 0:13:04I like it. It's minimalistic, which I like.
0:13:04 > 0:13:07- Yes.- And obviously Stephen needs to see it.
0:13:07 > 0:13:11- I've got to have his opinion as well.- Of course, of course.
0:13:11 > 0:13:14Anne clearly likes this apartment, and the good news is
0:13:14 > 0:13:18that the monthly rental falls within their budget at £490 a month.
0:13:20 > 0:13:22On top of that, Anne and Stephen will have to factor in
0:13:22 > 0:13:26about £50 a month for bills and Wi-Fi,
0:13:26 > 0:13:30but the good news is that their dog, Rory, is very welcome here.
0:13:31 > 0:13:33There's no problem with the dog, but if we get complaints
0:13:33 > 0:13:37about the noise and so forth, well, then they have a right,
0:13:37 > 0:13:40as in any apartment you stay in, that if you break
0:13:40 > 0:13:43the community rules, they have the right to... You're out!
0:13:44 > 0:13:48Back home in Eaglesham, Stephen is very eager to find out
0:13:48 > 0:13:50how Anne has been getting on.
0:13:50 > 0:13:51Hi, there, how are you?
0:13:51 > 0:13:55- I'm fine, how are you? - Good, yeah, all good here, yes.
0:13:55 > 0:13:57What's the weather like?
0:13:57 > 0:13:59The weather is lovely.
0:13:59 > 0:14:00Oh, brilliant.
0:14:00 > 0:14:02So, I'm in this apartment.
0:14:02 > 0:14:04So, desperate to see it, are you?
0:14:04 > 0:14:06Dying to see it.
0:14:07 > 0:14:10So, we've got the living room area type here.
0:14:10 > 0:14:12Yeah, that's fine. That looks nice, Anne.
0:14:12 > 0:14:14And then into your kitchen, Stephen.
0:14:14 > 0:14:17It just looks a bit small, that's all.
0:14:17 > 0:14:20It's not the largest apartment in the world,
0:14:20 > 0:14:24but it is sufficient and it's ideal, really, for a couple.
0:14:24 > 0:14:27Yeah, but bearing in mind it's just for the two of us
0:14:27 > 0:14:29and that tiny terrier.
0:14:29 > 0:14:30So is dogs allowed?
0:14:30 > 0:14:33Dogs are allowed, yeah, dogs are allowed here.
0:14:33 > 0:14:35The bedroom's quite big.
0:14:35 > 0:14:38- It looks big, yeah.- And you've got the double wardrobe here.
0:14:38 > 0:14:40It's very spacious, the wardrobe.
0:14:40 > 0:14:43It's not as if we're going to have hundreds of clothes,
0:14:43 > 0:14:45- do you know what I mean? - They're doing the right thing
0:14:45 > 0:14:48and that is coming over first before they're going to take their let
0:14:48 > 0:14:53to make sure that it is the right property and ticks the right boxes.
0:14:54 > 0:14:59Anne has saved the best until last - those magnificent sea views.
0:15:00 > 0:15:02Can you picture yourself sitting here and looking out
0:15:02 > 0:15:05into that view every single day?
0:15:05 > 0:15:07Oh, yeah, that's nice.
0:15:07 > 0:15:10So, that's it. What did you think?
0:15:10 > 0:15:11It looks nice, Anne.
0:15:11 > 0:15:15Stephen likes the apartment, but money is crucial,
0:15:15 > 0:15:19and the rent for this property is £490 a month.
0:15:19 > 0:15:20Personally, I think that's dear...
0:15:21 > 0:15:23..for a one-bedroomed apartment.
0:15:23 > 0:15:25It's got, like, lovely gardens.
0:15:25 > 0:15:29It's got swimming pools and it's got, like, a gym.
0:15:29 > 0:15:30You know I'll be in the gym.
0:15:32 > 0:15:34- OK, pet.- All right, see you later.
0:15:34 > 0:15:38- Love you. Take care.- Love you, too. Bye.- Bye-bye.
0:15:38 > 0:15:39Value for money...
0:15:40 > 0:15:44..I think it's a bit dear. If that is the sort of budget out there,
0:15:44 > 0:15:45that's what it is, you know?
0:15:47 > 0:15:48Well, how did that go?
0:15:48 > 0:15:50The budget for a one-bedroom...
0:15:50 > 0:15:53- Yes.- ..thought it was a wee bit pricey for just the one-bedroom.
0:15:53 > 0:15:57The budget is really a one-bedroom budget rather than a two.
0:15:57 > 0:16:00- Yeah.- But hopefully, once we show you some more apartments,
0:16:00 > 0:16:04you can make a choice and find the ideal home from home.
0:16:04 > 0:16:05Yeah, great. Shall we, then?
0:16:05 > 0:16:07- Let's go.- Thank you.
0:16:10 > 0:16:15Available to rent for £490 per month excluding bills,
0:16:15 > 0:16:18this one-bedroom apartment has a clean, modern finish
0:16:18 > 0:16:22and the possibility of the internet connection that Anne needs for work.
0:16:22 > 0:16:23It's pet friendly,
0:16:23 > 0:16:26but despite being under their £600 budget,
0:16:26 > 0:16:28Stephen in particular doesn't feel
0:16:28 > 0:16:30it offers value for money.
0:16:36 > 0:16:40With Anne undertaking the tough task of touring the Costa del Sol,
0:16:40 > 0:16:43back in Scotland, Stephen and Yorkshire terrier Rory
0:16:43 > 0:16:45have been left with a task of their own.
0:16:47 > 0:16:50- Right, Rory, in you come. - Oh, come on, pal.
0:16:50 > 0:16:51You've got to go this way.
0:16:51 > 0:16:54They're taking a trip to the local vet to find out more
0:16:54 > 0:16:57about the logistics and costs of getting Rory to Spain and back.
0:17:00 > 0:17:02- OK, here you go, pal. - Right, Rory.
0:17:02 > 0:17:04Right. What can we do for Rory today, then?
0:17:04 > 0:17:07Well, would you believe, Bill, we're thinking of going to Spain...
0:17:07 > 0:17:09- That'll be nice.- ..over the winter.
0:17:09 > 0:17:12And, basically, we want to take the dog.
0:17:12 > 0:17:14OK, are his normal vaccinations up-to-date?
0:17:14 > 0:17:16- As far as I know. - Right, that's fine.
0:17:16 > 0:17:18So you'll need a pet passport to go.
0:17:18 > 0:17:21- Right.- He needs to be micro-chipped, which he probably already is.
0:17:21 > 0:17:25- He'll need to be vaccinated against rabies.- OK.
0:17:25 > 0:17:27And then three weeks from the date of that vaccination,
0:17:27 > 0:17:28his passport becomes active.
0:17:28 > 0:17:31What's the costs? You know, so we can...
0:17:31 > 0:17:33Again, everything's to do with budgets.
0:17:33 > 0:17:35It'll be about £200 all in.
0:17:35 > 0:17:37All in? That's good, that's good.
0:17:37 > 0:17:41Coming back, you need to treat for tapeworms between one and five days
0:17:41 > 0:17:45before you come back and that has to be signed on your passport.
0:17:45 > 0:17:47Right, so I would have to find a vet in Spain?
0:17:47 > 0:17:50- Yeah, to do that for you.- Right, OK.
0:17:50 > 0:17:52Actually, I've done it myself for my dog
0:17:52 > 0:17:55and acquiring a pet passport is actually a simple process.
0:17:55 > 0:17:57But with the cost of £200 for the passport,
0:17:57 > 0:18:01plus as as much as £500 for specialist pet transportation
0:18:01 > 0:18:04on an aircraft, Anne and Stephen will have to decide
0:18:04 > 0:18:08if they really want to pay for Rory to join them over the winter months.
0:18:14 > 0:18:16Having already seen the first property,
0:18:16 > 0:18:20Mike and Anne are back in the car being chauffeur driven
0:18:20 > 0:18:22to their second viewing.
0:18:22 > 0:18:26You mentioned when we first spoke that there was a possibility
0:18:26 > 0:18:30the budget could be upped, so I'd like to show you this property
0:18:30 > 0:18:33because I think you're going to really like it.
0:18:33 > 0:18:36Staying within the Benalmadena area,
0:18:36 > 0:18:40Mike is taking Anne west for property two, to Torrequebrada.
0:18:40 > 0:18:42It is a little bit away from the hubbub,
0:18:42 > 0:18:45the typical Bonanza Square type of thing,
0:18:45 > 0:18:47but there are a couple of local bars
0:18:47 > 0:18:49and there is one of those bars I've already checked.
0:18:49 > 0:18:52It's a sports bar, so it's going to be fine for Stephen.
0:18:52 > 0:18:53I'll never see him!
0:18:55 > 0:18:56Is that a good thing?
0:18:58 > 0:19:02Torrequebrada is slightly off the beaten tourist track.
0:19:02 > 0:19:06It's an area where you'll find typical Andalusian town houses.
0:19:07 > 0:19:10And as value for money was an issue with the last property,
0:19:10 > 0:19:13Mike wants to introduce Anne and Stephen to a location
0:19:13 > 0:19:16where spending a little bit more money goes a long way.
0:19:20 > 0:19:25This is Hacienda del Golf, and it's what they call a pueblo Andaluz,
0:19:25 > 0:19:30which is all whitewashed little houses all around a central feature,
0:19:30 > 0:19:33which, in this case, happens to be the swimming pool
0:19:33 > 0:19:35and the barbecue area down in the community.
0:19:35 > 0:19:38Now, you can see all these little houses, all very quiet,
0:19:38 > 0:19:42- all very tranquil. Very much a residential area.- Yeah.
0:19:42 > 0:19:44And this is the house.
0:19:44 > 0:19:47The property Mike has brought Anne to see is
0:19:47 > 0:19:48a three-bedroom town house...
0:19:48 > 0:19:50Come on in.
0:19:50 > 0:19:52..complete with two bathrooms.
0:19:52 > 0:19:53This is the hallway
0:19:53 > 0:19:56and then we walk straight through into the lounge and
0:19:56 > 0:19:58- the kitchen.- This is gorgeous.
0:19:58 > 0:20:01- You like it? - Yeah, it's beautiful. Yeah.
0:20:01 > 0:20:04The kitchen is well-equipped and, although it's open-plan,
0:20:04 > 0:20:06there is a breakfast bar separating the space.
0:20:07 > 0:20:09Stephen can do all his cooking here...
0:20:09 > 0:20:12- Yeah.- ..whilst you're watching the telly, if you move the telly
0:20:12 > 0:20:14out a bit.
0:20:14 > 0:20:17The living area is comfortable and very suitable for Anne's work.
0:20:18 > 0:20:22This house is completely Wi-fied, so the Wi-Fi is included.
0:20:22 > 0:20:24OK, so that box ticked straightaway.
0:20:24 > 0:20:27- Yes, yes, definitely.- You don't have to worry about that one.
0:20:27 > 0:20:28Upstairs, there are two bathrooms.
0:20:28 > 0:20:31There's one here, that's a shower room, as you can see,
0:20:31 > 0:20:35and through here is the second bathroom.
0:20:35 > 0:20:38So whether you want a bath or whether you want a shower,
0:20:38 > 0:20:39here you have the choice.
0:20:41 > 0:20:43This property has three bedrooms - a twin room...
0:20:45 > 0:20:46..a spare double bedroom...
0:20:49 > 0:20:51..and a really good-sized master bedroom,
0:20:51 > 0:20:53which has its own small terrace seating area.
0:20:56 > 0:21:00This wasn't the type of property that we were looking for
0:21:00 > 0:21:02- when we were doing a search.- Right.
0:21:02 > 0:21:03But it's beautiful.
0:21:03 > 0:21:05We haven't even seen the best bit yet,
0:21:05 > 0:21:07and that is the terrace.
0:21:07 > 0:21:11Back downstairs, double patio doors lead from the living room
0:21:11 > 0:21:13out onto a paved terrace,
0:21:13 > 0:21:15which is furnished with everything you would need
0:21:15 > 0:21:17to enjoy an outdoor lifestyle.
0:21:17 > 0:21:20- It's stunning. - You like this?- It's stunning, yes.
0:21:20 > 0:21:22Well, obviously, this is a perfect little area for Rory.
0:21:22 > 0:21:24Yeah, I forgot about him for a minute!
0:21:26 > 0:21:27Never mind about Rory.
0:21:29 > 0:21:34OK, so the all-important question, how much is this gorgeous place?
0:21:34 > 0:21:38This gorgeous place is £670 a month...
0:21:39 > 0:21:40..plus electric.
0:21:40 > 0:21:44You're looking at, I should imagine, an extra £50 a month,
0:21:44 > 0:21:45being realistic.
0:21:47 > 0:21:50This three-bedroom town house certainly ticks
0:21:50 > 0:21:54all of Anne and Stephen's boxes in terms of space and facilities.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57The location is close to the golf course, ideal, of course,
0:21:57 > 0:22:01for Stephen's search for work, but with budget being a big concern,
0:22:01 > 0:22:04will he feel it's worth going over their planned budget
0:22:04 > 0:22:06of £600 a month?
0:22:09 > 0:22:13- Hi!- Hiya. How are you? - All right, how are you?
0:22:13 > 0:22:15- I'm fine.- Let me take you around this property, sir.
0:22:15 > 0:22:17Okey dokey.
0:22:17 > 0:22:20Anne begins by showing Stephen the entrance to the property.
0:22:20 > 0:22:22Look at this, as well.
0:22:22 > 0:22:24- Hola!- Hola!
0:22:26 > 0:22:27Stepping over the threshold,
0:22:27 > 0:22:30Anne is taking Stephen into the main living area.
0:22:30 > 0:22:32Right away, you can tell it's not a flat.
0:22:32 > 0:22:36- Yeah.- You know, it just looks like a normal house.
0:22:36 > 0:22:38I think she really liked the property.
0:22:38 > 0:22:40This really is a home from home
0:22:40 > 0:22:44and that extra space will make the difference.
0:22:44 > 0:22:47Having shown Stephen the facilities downstairs,
0:22:47 > 0:22:49it's now up to the second floor of the property.
0:22:49 > 0:22:53Into a bathroom, which has got the toilet again.
0:22:53 > 0:22:56They like their toilets, don't they? How many toilets are in this place?
0:22:56 > 0:22:59Actually, there are three toilets, Stephen, in this property,
0:22:59 > 0:23:01which is the same number as there are bedrooms.
0:23:01 > 0:23:03That's me and Rory's room.
0:23:04 > 0:23:07No, you've both got a bedroom each. We've all got a bedroom each!
0:23:08 > 0:23:12When she was explaining all the things that they wanted,
0:23:12 > 0:23:15I think this would really fit the bill totally
0:23:15 > 0:23:19with their idea of moving out here.
0:23:19 > 0:23:21Stephen has seen inside, but how will he feel
0:23:21 > 0:23:23when he sees the golf course?
0:23:23 > 0:23:25- What do you think that is? - That's the park.
0:23:25 > 0:23:27It's not a park.
0:23:27 > 0:23:29It's a golf course.
0:23:29 > 0:23:32Ha! A golf course?
0:23:32 > 0:23:35This is Torrequebrada golf course.
0:23:35 > 0:23:38I'll go and ask for a job in the golf course caddying.
0:23:38 > 0:23:42You sure could. Yay!
0:23:42 > 0:23:44It's an unsurprising thumbs up for this property,
0:23:44 > 0:23:49but is Stephen willing to pay £670 a month to live here?
0:23:50 > 0:23:54That's beautiful, that place, Anne, but that's over our budget.
0:23:54 > 0:23:57- It's nice to see it.- It's nice to see that for that extra
0:23:57 > 0:24:02maybe £200, £150, what difference you can get.
0:24:02 > 0:24:04Right, well, we've got a lot to talk about then.
0:24:04 > 0:24:07- Okey dokey.- OK, right.- You take care.- See you later.- Bye, pet.
0:24:07 > 0:24:09- Bye.- Bye.- Bye-bye.
0:24:11 > 0:24:13What did he think of that, then?
0:24:13 > 0:24:14He absolutely loved it.
0:24:14 > 0:24:18Loved the location, loved how quiet it was, as well.
0:24:18 > 0:24:20- Yes.- And with it being home from home.
0:24:20 > 0:24:22It's not for us at the moment,
0:24:22 > 0:24:26but he did say that he thought it was tremendous value for money.
0:24:26 > 0:24:28Well, you're getting three times the size,
0:24:28 > 0:24:31but you're certainly not paying three times the price.
0:24:31 > 0:24:34It's something to think about, like, in the future, as well.
0:24:34 > 0:24:37- OK.- Definitely something to think about.
0:24:37 > 0:24:40Unfortunately, at this time, for the three months that we're planning
0:24:40 > 0:24:45to go out to pay rent, it's just outwith our budget.
0:24:45 > 0:24:48But I would say, definitely in the future, that's...
0:24:48 > 0:24:51A property like that is where I'd like to stay.
0:24:55 > 0:24:58Although Anne and Stephen recognise this town house is value for money,
0:24:58 > 0:25:03£670 a month plus bills would be a real stretch for their budget.
0:25:03 > 0:25:05It did tick many of their boxes,
0:25:05 > 0:25:09including having plenty of space and being in a great location,
0:25:09 > 0:25:13and it's given Anne and Stephen fantastic insight
0:25:13 > 0:25:16into what the area offers if they do decide to make the move to Spain
0:25:16 > 0:25:18a more permanent one.
0:25:20 > 0:25:25Anne and Stephen's property search is centred around Benalmadena,
0:25:25 > 0:25:28one of the most popular destinations on Spain's Costa del Sol.
0:25:30 > 0:25:34In the height of the summer, Benalmadena bustles with visitors.
0:25:34 > 0:25:37In the low season, pace of life slows right down
0:25:37 > 0:25:39and visitor numbers drop by about 40%,
0:25:39 > 0:25:43so there are great deals to be had on winter accommodation.
0:25:45 > 0:25:47Anne and Stephen can rent the first property they saw
0:25:47 > 0:25:50for £490 a month during winter.
0:25:50 > 0:25:54In summer, the price is over four times that amount.
0:25:54 > 0:25:57Even at the higher end of the market, there are deals to be done.
0:26:00 > 0:26:02Take this four-bedroomed villa.
0:26:03 > 0:26:07It's £1,900 a week in July and August,
0:26:07 > 0:26:12but drops by a whopping £890 a week between November and February.
0:26:15 > 0:26:18Or this villa in the Torrequebrada area.
0:26:18 > 0:26:21It's got five double bedrooms, five bathrooms,
0:26:21 > 0:26:24and some spectacular ocean views.
0:26:25 > 0:26:28In the summer, it's £8,000 a week,
0:26:28 > 0:26:31but in the winter, the weekly rate is reduced by £2,000.
0:26:33 > 0:26:36With sunshine all year round and just a three-hour flight
0:26:36 > 0:26:40from the UK, it's very easy to see why the Costa del Sol
0:26:40 > 0:26:41is so popular in winter.
0:26:48 > 0:26:51As well as the benefits of cheaper rentals,
0:26:51 > 0:26:54spending longer time abroad in winter provides opportunities
0:26:54 > 0:26:58to experience a place not just as a holiday-maker,
0:26:58 > 0:26:59but more as a local.
0:27:02 > 0:27:04Anne's about to take part in her very first
0:27:04 > 0:27:06winter beach yoga class...
0:27:07 > 0:27:11..led by local yoga teacher, Nico.
0:27:11 > 0:27:13On the beach, there is a couple of pointers you need to know.
0:27:13 > 0:27:15Yes, exactly, very good.
0:27:15 > 0:27:17You need to be able to be stable on your feet.
0:27:19 > 0:27:22Anne's aim when she's here is to have a better work/life balance.
0:27:22 > 0:27:26She wants to spend more time doing physical activities outdoors
0:27:26 > 0:27:30and also tap into the community, who may become her potential clients.
0:27:33 > 0:27:36I'm doing hypnotherapy at the moment back in the UK.
0:27:36 > 0:27:39I'm also doing it by Skype, and life coaching, as well,
0:27:39 > 0:27:40so it's all to do with the mind.
0:27:40 > 0:27:44- Yes.- I'm hoping that there's going to be a market here, as well.
0:27:44 > 0:27:46I'm finding more and more in the UK that there is.
0:27:46 > 0:27:50There is a lot of foreigners as well as locals who are into mindfulness.
0:27:50 > 0:27:53Right now, yoga is starting to bloom in Spain.
0:27:53 > 0:27:57- Yeah, take off.- The Spaniards are really getting an interest in it.
0:27:57 > 0:28:00- Yeah.- So for the future, I think it's going to be quite good.
0:28:01 > 0:28:04UK citizens do not need special visas to work in Spain
0:28:04 > 0:28:07at the moment, and any income earned abroad will be treated
0:28:07 > 0:28:12in the same way by the UK tax office as if it were earned at home.
0:28:12 > 0:28:13I knew that I was coming here.
0:28:13 > 0:28:15I knew that I was... This was my focus.
0:28:15 > 0:28:18- OK.- I knew I was coming to the sun and I was going to be relaxing,
0:28:18 > 0:28:22and now it's time for myself and if I can...
0:28:23 > 0:28:27..get myself, like, from the inside feeling a lot better,
0:28:27 > 0:28:29then everything else will fall into place.
0:28:29 > 0:28:32I'll make it fall into place, but it will fall into place.
0:28:33 > 0:28:36Anne has rekindled a love of all things spiritual
0:28:36 > 0:28:38and has found a perfect location to nurture her passion.
0:28:40 > 0:28:43Fortunately for her, she won't have to wait too long until
0:28:43 > 0:28:46yoga on the beach becomes a regular pastime.
0:28:53 > 0:28:55Back in the car, Anne and Mike are still on the hunt
0:28:55 > 0:28:57for a perfect rental home.
0:28:57 > 0:29:01She's on her way to property number three, just a short drive away.
0:29:02 > 0:29:04Literally two minutes and you're on the beach.
0:29:04 > 0:29:07Go and do your yoga there in the mornings, no problem at all.
0:29:07 > 0:29:09None whatsoever.
0:29:09 > 0:29:11This is an area Anne and Stephen know well.
0:29:11 > 0:29:15With the centre of town and the marina within walking distance,
0:29:15 > 0:29:17and shops and a beach on their doorstep, you know,
0:29:17 > 0:29:19it's the couple's dream location.
0:29:22 > 0:29:25The apartment is one of around 200 privately owned flats
0:29:25 > 0:29:30in this converted hotel, with access to a communal pool.
0:29:30 > 0:29:33I'm hoping you and Stephen are going to like it very much.
0:29:33 > 0:29:35We haven't got far to go now.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38- You can see for yourself. - Looking forward to it. Thanks.
0:29:42 > 0:29:44Well, here we are, Anne. Please come in.
0:29:45 > 0:29:48With a very clever use of space, the owners of this property
0:29:48 > 0:29:51have squeezed in everything you would need.
0:29:51 > 0:29:54And the curious thing is here, it's on two levels,
0:29:54 > 0:29:57what we'd call a duplex.
0:29:58 > 0:30:02In the bathroom, all fixtures and fittings are brand-new.
0:30:02 > 0:30:05And, as you can see here, they've got rid of the old bath...
0:30:05 > 0:30:09- Yeah.- ..and they put a very nice walk-in shower.
0:30:09 > 0:30:11It's a nice calming colour, as well.
0:30:11 > 0:30:13- Yes.- I like that.
0:30:14 > 0:30:16The final indoor space is the bedroom.
0:30:16 > 0:30:20But, once more, everything fits in perfectly.
0:30:20 > 0:30:22Do you think Stephen is going to like this?
0:30:22 > 0:30:23Is this Stephen's style, as well?
0:30:23 > 0:30:25I think that he would like this, yes.
0:30:25 > 0:30:27I'm excited for him to see this.
0:30:29 > 0:30:30And finally...
0:30:31 > 0:30:32Here's the balcony.
0:30:33 > 0:30:35And look at that view.
0:30:36 > 0:30:39Being on the seventh floor, the view is spectacular.
0:30:39 > 0:30:46And the price for this property is £535 a month, including the bills.
0:30:46 > 0:30:50You don't have to worry about your electric bill, your water bill,
0:30:50 > 0:30:52that's all included. And, of course, the Wi-Fi, as well.
0:30:52 > 0:30:55- It's free.- I like it.
0:30:55 > 0:30:58- I do like it. It's a joint decision...- Of course.
0:30:58 > 0:31:01..so I've got to make the call.
0:31:01 > 0:31:04Not only like but she loves this apartment, and back home,
0:31:04 > 0:31:07Stephen's awaiting her call, but will he love it as much?
0:31:11 > 0:31:14- Hi, pal, how are you? - All right. How are you?
0:31:14 > 0:31:16I'm fine. It's been a nice day here today.
0:31:16 > 0:31:19Really? Really? Well, it's raining here again -
0:31:19 > 0:31:22- not!- I know, I know!
0:31:22 > 0:31:25With Stephen enjoying the warm front back home,
0:31:25 > 0:31:28Anne starts the tour in the living area.
0:31:28 > 0:31:30Very basic, but really new.
0:31:30 > 0:31:32- It's modern. - It's nice and bright, Anne.
0:31:32 > 0:31:34Yeah, it is.
0:31:34 > 0:31:35Look at the Buddha as well.
0:31:35 > 0:31:38I'm not interested in Buddhas and pictures on the walls.
0:31:38 > 0:31:42- I am.- I thought that went very, very well, to be honest with you.
0:31:42 > 0:31:46She loved the fact that everything was new and reformed.
0:31:46 > 0:31:49In fact, it looks like it hasn't even been used, some of the things.
0:31:49 > 0:31:51Look at the view that you're getting from here.
0:31:51 > 0:31:53That's a really good location, that one.
0:31:53 > 0:31:56Yeah, I like the location of this.
0:31:56 > 0:31:59You're a bit higher up as well, so you can see more of the sea.
0:31:59 > 0:32:04This might be what she's looking for, a home from home.
0:32:04 > 0:32:07Up the steps to the back of the apartment is the bedroom.
0:32:07 > 0:32:08Is the bed comfy?
0:32:10 > 0:32:12- It's all right, yeah.- OK.
0:32:12 > 0:32:15So the bed's all right, but how will Stephen feel
0:32:15 > 0:32:20when he knows that this property is £535 a month including bills?
0:32:20 > 0:32:22It looks really nice, Anne.
0:32:22 > 0:32:25OK, right, well, moving onto the next one, then.
0:32:25 > 0:32:27- Okey dokey.- See you later.
0:32:27 > 0:32:30- Love you. Take care. - Yeah, you too. Bye.
0:32:30 > 0:32:33So Stephen's keen on this property as well.
0:32:33 > 0:32:35Time to tell Mike the good news.
0:32:35 > 0:32:37Well, Anne, what did Stephen think of that?
0:32:37 > 0:32:40He liked it. I knew that he would. I knew that he would like it.
0:32:40 > 0:32:43- Yes.- So that could be the one?
0:32:43 > 0:32:45Could be. The good thing about it is, it's like everything
0:32:45 > 0:32:47is combined in the price.
0:32:47 > 0:32:49- Well, shall we go?- Yes, yep.
0:32:53 > 0:32:56So, property three, an apartment in a complex,
0:32:56 > 0:32:59has proven a big hit with both Anne and Stephen.
0:33:00 > 0:33:04It's available to rent for £535 a month.
0:33:05 > 0:33:09Anne and Stephen like the idea that this price includes all the bills.
0:33:09 > 0:33:12It offers one bedroom and a sofa bed,
0:33:12 > 0:33:15it's pet friendly and it's in their dream location.
0:33:15 > 0:33:18The question is, can Mike top this with the final property?
0:33:24 > 0:33:27With Mike's help, Anne and Stephen are exploring Benalmadena,
0:33:27 > 0:33:31the areas of the town which might be right for them and the types and
0:33:31 > 0:33:35sizes of properties that they can rent in winter for their budget.
0:33:35 > 0:33:37They'll benefit from off-season rental prices,
0:33:37 > 0:33:42which are around 16% cheaper than renting a similar property
0:33:42 > 0:33:46in Glasgow, without the sunshine and the oranges.
0:33:46 > 0:33:49Daily living costs on the Costa del Sol will also make
0:33:49 > 0:33:52their winter sunshine budget stretch further,
0:33:52 > 0:33:57with utilities here being almost 45% less than in the UK.
0:33:57 > 0:34:01Even treating themselves to a three course meal out would, on average,
0:34:01 > 0:34:03cost less than £30.
0:34:06 > 0:34:08Anne and Stephen can only enjoy those savings
0:34:08 > 0:34:10if they find the right property.
0:34:10 > 0:34:14So it's back on the search for the final viewing.
0:34:14 > 0:34:16So where are we off to now?
0:34:16 > 0:34:20Well, now we're off to see a two-bedroom apartment.
0:34:20 > 0:34:23- Very much in a residential area. - Yeah.
0:34:23 > 0:34:27I'd say 90% of the people actually live there all year round.
0:34:27 > 0:34:29Oh, OK.
0:34:29 > 0:34:32Mike is taking Anne to the predominantly residential area,
0:34:32 > 0:34:37but still within walking distance of the main centre and the marina.
0:34:37 > 0:34:39There are also plenty of bars and restaurants near
0:34:39 > 0:34:41to this traditional apartment block.
0:34:43 > 0:34:46And as it's out of the main tourist hotspot,
0:34:46 > 0:34:48Anne and Stephen might find their budget buys them
0:34:48 > 0:34:50a little bit more space.
0:34:51 > 0:34:53Although we're very close to everything,
0:34:53 > 0:34:54all you can hear are the birds.
0:34:54 > 0:34:56Yeah, nice.
0:34:58 > 0:35:02This gated complex features a swimming pool and large gardens,
0:35:02 > 0:35:04perfect for Rory to stretch his little legs.
0:35:07 > 0:35:09Right, come on in, Anne.
0:35:11 > 0:35:13I think the first thing that's going to hit you here
0:35:13 > 0:35:16is the amount of space you get.
0:35:16 > 0:35:18Yeah. Yes, definitely.
0:35:18 > 0:35:20This really, really is a home...
0:35:22 > 0:35:23..hence a residential block.
0:35:23 > 0:35:26You can understand why people live here all year round.
0:35:27 > 0:35:30This two-bedroomed apartment has a lot of space...
0:35:31 > 0:35:33..and it also has a very homely feeling.
0:35:35 > 0:35:37It's tasteful, it's tasteful.
0:35:37 > 0:35:40- It's traditional. - Yes, yeah.
0:35:40 > 0:35:43Double sliding doors from the lounge provide access
0:35:43 > 0:35:45to a large glass enclosed balcony.
0:35:46 > 0:35:49- This is a good size.- And the views really are spectacular.
0:35:49 > 0:35:53- Yes.- You can see the marina over there.
0:35:53 > 0:35:56- Oh, yeah.- Between the blocks there, you can see Malaga.
0:35:56 > 0:35:58I like this, yeah.
0:35:58 > 0:36:00I like the size of it.
0:36:01 > 0:36:04Talking about size, rather than a compact cooking area,
0:36:04 > 0:36:07this property has a fully-equipped kitchen.
0:36:07 > 0:36:10This is where Stephen can really get down to it
0:36:10 > 0:36:12- if he wants to do some cooking. - Entertaining.
0:36:12 > 0:36:16- Here, you can cook a three course meal, no problems at all.- Yeah.
0:36:16 > 0:36:19The property has a large shower room,
0:36:19 > 0:36:23decorated in a very traditional Spanish style.
0:36:23 > 0:36:27I like traditional, yeah, I like all the traditional look.
0:36:27 > 0:36:30The two bedrooms consist of a twin room
0:36:30 > 0:36:33and a large master bedroom, which, like the living room,
0:36:33 > 0:36:36also has access to a large balcony.
0:36:36 > 0:36:39This property certainly ticks lots of boxes,
0:36:39 > 0:36:43but is it possible to have all this space and stay within budget?
0:36:45 > 0:36:49Million-dollar question, how much is this place?
0:36:49 > 0:36:53This apartment is £540 a month.
0:36:53 > 0:36:55OK.
0:36:55 > 0:36:59As Anne will be working to help fund their winter in Spain,
0:36:59 > 0:37:00Wi-Fi is essential.
0:37:00 > 0:37:03It's possible to have Wi-Fi installed here,
0:37:03 > 0:37:05but it would cost you around £35 a month extra.
0:37:07 > 0:37:10Anne loves the style and the space this property offers,
0:37:10 > 0:37:12but will Stephen agree?
0:37:14 > 0:37:17- Hi, there. How are you? - I'm fine, pet. How are you?
0:37:17 > 0:37:19Yeah, I'm all right. Do you want to see this place?
0:37:19 > 0:37:22- I'm looking forward to it. - Are you ready?- Go for it.
0:37:24 > 0:37:26The tour starts in the living room.
0:37:26 > 0:37:28It's like a traditional Spanish property.
0:37:28 > 0:37:30That looks quite big.
0:37:30 > 0:37:32Yeah, it is, yeah.
0:37:32 > 0:37:33Good start.
0:37:33 > 0:37:35And then it goes out to a terrace.
0:37:35 > 0:37:38The balcony, I don't like it all enclosed.
0:37:38 > 0:37:40- Do you not like that?- No.
0:37:40 > 0:37:41And then to the kitchen.
0:37:41 > 0:37:43Look at the size of this.
0:37:43 > 0:37:46It's not as modern as the last one, I would say.
0:37:46 > 0:37:48The second bedroom.
0:37:48 > 0:37:50- Mel could come over and stay in there.- Ideal, yeah.
0:37:50 > 0:37:53That would be great, and there's loads of room.
0:37:53 > 0:37:55So into the main bedroom.
0:37:55 > 0:37:57That looks nice. Is that bed comfy?
0:37:57 > 0:38:00Just check this for you. Yes, nice firm bed.
0:38:00 > 0:38:01OK, that's fine.
0:38:01 > 0:38:04I didn't realise it was going to be so...
0:38:04 > 0:38:09The price was going to be so important, and it has been,
0:38:09 > 0:38:11from that point of view, very difficult to find something
0:38:11 > 0:38:14within their predetermined budget.
0:38:14 > 0:38:18Oh, dear. Stephen's not quite as keen as Anne on the apartment,
0:38:18 > 0:38:21but will the price persuade him one way or the other?
0:38:21 > 0:38:24It is £540.
0:38:24 > 0:38:26I don't know about that.
0:38:26 > 0:38:28I'm not too impressed by this one, Anne, I'm going to be honest.
0:38:28 > 0:38:31Right, OK, no, that's fine. I need your honest opinion.
0:38:31 > 0:38:33That's fine with me as well.
0:38:33 > 0:38:35- OK, darling.- Speak to you later.
0:38:35 > 0:38:36- Bye!- Take care, I love you. Bye.
0:38:36 > 0:38:38- Love you too, bye.- Bye-bye.
0:38:40 > 0:38:43Anne, how did that go? What did Stephen think?
0:38:43 > 0:38:44That was all right.
0:38:44 > 0:38:49Yes, he agreed that it was spacious, but I think that he likes
0:38:49 > 0:38:52the modern more, as opposed to the traditional.
0:38:52 > 0:38:55- Also, again, the budget as well. - Yes.
0:38:55 > 0:38:59We both agree that we would much rather have something,
0:38:59 > 0:39:01if we can find something, that's got like...
0:39:01 > 0:39:03We know exactly what we're paying every month
0:39:03 > 0:39:04and it's the same every month.
0:39:04 > 0:39:06- Right.- Maybe one bedroom.
0:39:06 > 0:39:10Because it's just a temporary measure just now.
0:39:10 > 0:39:11The place was nicely decorated.
0:39:11 > 0:39:13A wee bit dated.
0:39:13 > 0:39:17But something, my gut feeling, for some reason,
0:39:17 > 0:39:20I can't put my finger on it, I didn't really like it.
0:39:22 > 0:39:26At £540 a month for accommodation only,
0:39:26 > 0:39:29this property is just within their budget.
0:39:29 > 0:39:30It gives them two bedrooms.
0:39:30 > 0:39:34They both love the amount of space on offer and Anne really likes
0:39:34 > 0:39:36the traditional style.
0:39:36 > 0:39:38But with no Wi-Fi, they're concerned about
0:39:38 > 0:39:40the additional monthly costs.
0:39:47 > 0:39:51Mike has shown Anne and Stephen four very different properties,
0:39:51 > 0:39:54all with the potential to be a home from home for the winter.
0:39:55 > 0:39:58Anne will soon be back in chilly Scotland to discuss the options
0:39:58 > 0:40:01with Stephen and to decide which, if any, of the properties
0:40:01 > 0:40:03they might choose.
0:40:04 > 0:40:06- Hello, Stephen. - Hi, Mike, how are you doing?
0:40:06 > 0:40:09- Good to see you again.- Cheers. - This is a first for me, you know,
0:40:09 > 0:40:12showing a partner around on the phone.
0:40:12 > 0:40:14Do you feel that you can get a good impression?
0:40:14 > 0:40:15Yeah, it works really well.
0:40:15 > 0:40:20I'm really impressed with the tour of all the properties.
0:40:20 > 0:40:22- It was great.- You can tell by his face that he's happy.
0:40:22 > 0:40:25Yes, he's happy, he's smiling.
0:40:25 > 0:40:28If this experience has convinced Anne and Stephen of anything,
0:40:28 > 0:40:32it's that Benalmadena is the place for their winter.
0:40:32 > 0:40:34Am I definitely going to meet you, Stephen?
0:40:34 > 0:40:35Are we definitely going to do this?
0:40:35 > 0:40:38We will be doing it. We've just got to find the right place
0:40:38 > 0:40:40- and you'll be there.- Lovely.
0:40:40 > 0:40:42Look forward to meeting you in person.
0:40:42 > 0:40:44OK, take care.
0:40:44 > 0:40:47- Bye-bye.- OK, bye!- Bye!
0:40:47 > 0:40:48Bye!
0:40:50 > 0:40:51Cheers!
0:40:52 > 0:40:55Anne and Stephen were looking for a major change in life,
0:40:55 > 0:40:59and decided that Benalmadena is the only location for them.
0:40:59 > 0:41:02It's busy, it's quiet, it's got a bit of both.
0:41:02 > 0:41:05With Stephen remaining in Scotland, Anne jetted off to view
0:41:05 > 0:41:06four properties with Mike.
0:41:08 > 0:41:09Hi. How are you?
0:41:09 > 0:41:12- Well, lovely to meet you in person. - Yes, you too.
0:41:12 > 0:41:16The first property in a large complex was centrally located,
0:41:16 > 0:41:19but Stephen, in particular, had reservations.
0:41:19 > 0:41:23Personally, I think that's dear for a one-bedroomed apartment.
0:41:23 > 0:41:26For property two, Mike wanted to show them what
0:41:26 > 0:41:29they could get if they were willing to stretch their budget.
0:41:29 > 0:41:32This wasn't the type of property that we were looking for
0:41:32 > 0:41:34- when we were doing a search.- Right.
0:41:34 > 0:41:36But it's beautiful.
0:41:36 > 0:41:41Realising that budget really was Anne and Stephen's biggest concern,
0:41:41 > 0:41:44Mike's third property offered them the location they wanted
0:41:44 > 0:41:46and an all-inclusive price.
0:41:46 > 0:41:47Is this Stephen's style, as well?
0:41:47 > 0:41:49I think that he would like this, yeah.
0:41:49 > 0:41:52I'm excited for him to see this.
0:41:52 > 0:41:55For the final property, Mike showed Anne a more traditional apartment,
0:41:55 > 0:41:58with a space she just loved.
0:41:58 > 0:42:00The first thing that's going to hit you here
0:42:00 > 0:42:03- is the amount of space you get. - Yeah.
0:42:03 > 0:42:05But, again, Stephen had reservations.
0:42:05 > 0:42:08That balcony, I don't like it all enclosed.
0:42:08 > 0:42:09- Do you not like that?- No.
0:42:11 > 0:42:13Having seen four very different properties,
0:42:13 > 0:42:16the question is - have Anne and Stephen taken the plunge,
0:42:16 > 0:42:18left the harsh Scottish winter behind
0:42:18 > 0:42:20and made it to the Costa del Sol?
0:42:27 > 0:42:28- Hi, there!- Hiya.
0:42:28 > 0:42:30We're here.
0:42:30 > 0:42:34We made it. We're in Benalmadena, on the Costa Del Sol,
0:42:34 > 0:42:37and we are living the winter dream.
0:42:37 > 0:42:40In the end, Anne and Stephen booked the third property they saw,
0:42:40 > 0:42:43the one-bedroom apartment with a fixed monthly rental.
0:42:43 > 0:42:47When we came in here, it was like - this is it, this is the one.
0:42:47 > 0:42:51The colours and everything, it was just us.
0:42:51 > 0:42:53It was our place.
0:42:53 > 0:42:57What it cost to get here, it costs the same to get a taxi
0:42:57 > 0:42:59from our house in Eaglesham into Glasgow.
0:42:59 > 0:43:01Yeah, and to the city centre.
0:43:01 > 0:43:04So it's just a no-brainer, basically!
0:43:04 > 0:43:08Unfortunately, Anne and Stephen had to leave their Yorkshire terrier,
0:43:08 > 0:43:11Rory, in Scotland along with their daughter, Melissa,
0:43:11 > 0:43:15because it would have cost almost £700 to get him to Spain.
0:43:15 > 0:43:19But, despite this, they feel that getting away to Benalmadena
0:43:19 > 0:43:23is the best decision they ever could have made.
0:43:23 > 0:43:26- That's us, living the dream in winter.- We are.
0:43:26 > 0:43:28I know. I know, we are.
0:43:28 > 0:43:30- I can't believe it.- I know.
0:43:30 > 0:43:31- Bye!- Bye!