0:00:02 > 0:00:04- Paradise!- Absolutely.
0:00:04 > 0:00:07What if you could live abroad in winter
0:00:07 > 0:00:10for the same cost as living in the UK...
0:00:10 > 0:00:14This is priced at £595 per month.
0:00:14 > 0:00:17- Is that all? - ..by renting a piece of paradise?
0:00:17 > 0:00:23- Unbelievable! Wow, this is amazing. - You could swap sleet and snow
0:00:23 > 0:00:25for sun and sand.
0:00:25 > 0:00:28- Right, let's go and have a look at some properties.- Well, absolutely.
0:00:30 > 0:00:35Get Away For Winter teams up sun-seekers with a local property expert...
0:00:35 > 0:00:40- Can you see yourself in here? - I can, yeah.- ..to find their perfect rental retreat.
0:00:40 > 0:00:43- It's like you're on holiday all the time. - LAUGHTER
0:00:43 > 0:00:45Together, they'll leave no stone unturned...
0:00:45 > 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 > 0:01:08Let's face it, winter in Liverpool is not for the faint-hearted.
0:01:08 > 0:01:11The average temperature is five degrees
0:01:11 > 0:01:14and those strong winds coming off the Irish Sea can make it feel much,
0:01:14 > 0:01:17much colder.
0:01:17 > 0:01:21This is one reason why Liverpudlian Margaret and her husband Roger are
0:01:21 > 0:01:22planning to get away.
0:01:25 > 0:01:26We're both now retired
0:01:26 > 0:01:30and now we've decided we might as well spend our winters in the sun,
0:01:30 > 0:01:32- rather than the cold and wet in England.- Yeah.
0:01:32 > 0:01:36Get away from all the dreary weather that the UK gives us.
0:01:36 > 0:01:39Come the long, dark days,
0:01:39 > 0:01:42the winter chills ache Margaret and Roger's bones,
0:01:42 > 0:01:46so they keep busy in the warmth of their own home.
0:01:46 > 0:01:49Margaret likes to make beaded jewellery,
0:01:49 > 0:01:53while Roger really enjoys cooking up some continental cuisine.
0:01:53 > 0:01:56You're starting to get the aromas now.
0:01:56 > 0:01:58Alongside the physical discomfort,
0:01:58 > 0:02:01Roger finds it mentally difficult as well.
0:02:01 > 0:02:04And the last thing, passata.
0:02:04 > 0:02:07There's that SAD thing, isn't there, you know,
0:02:07 > 0:02:10for seasonal affective disorder.
0:02:10 > 0:02:13It just gets you down. You get up in the morning, you look out the window
0:02:13 > 0:02:15and you go, "Oh, it's another grey day."
0:02:15 > 0:02:18I find the sun helps me greatly.
0:02:18 > 0:02:22Their desire to stay fit and healthy in body and mind is pushing these
0:02:22 > 0:02:24sun-seekers to spend their winters abroad.
0:02:26 > 0:02:28We don't want to spend our time sat on the settee.
0:02:28 > 0:02:32- No.- We do like to get out and about. I don't fancy doing things like
0:02:32 > 0:02:37skydiving or climbing cliffs or anything ridiculous like that,
0:02:37 > 0:02:41- but the odd sort of gentle sport... - Fancy paddle boarding, don't you?
0:02:41 > 0:02:43I fancy having a go at paddle boarding.
0:02:43 > 0:02:45I fancy that. I like the look of it.
0:02:45 > 0:02:49- I thought, "I'll have a go at that." - And I'll take the photographs. - LAUGHTER
0:02:49 > 0:02:51Et voila!
0:02:51 > 0:02:55Margaret was a civil servant and Roger a security guard.
0:02:55 > 0:02:58They've recently downsized after paying off the mortgage on their
0:02:58 > 0:03:01former home of 30 years.
0:03:01 > 0:03:03Using the money from the sale,
0:03:03 > 0:03:07they were able to buy their new house outright and have set aside
0:03:07 > 0:03:10the rest of it to fund their winter getaways.
0:03:10 > 0:03:13- He's head cook, I'm bottle washer. - LAUGHTER
0:03:13 > 0:03:18- I put things away.- And, of course, you've always got...
0:03:18 > 0:03:23The chef's perk is any wine left over.
0:03:23 > 0:03:26Oh, I do like a man who cooks!
0:03:26 > 0:03:31When they're abroad, they have a plan to cover their household bills.
0:03:31 > 0:03:34Heating and the utility bills, for instance, here,
0:03:34 > 0:03:36we've got a son who lives with us.
0:03:36 > 0:03:40The plan is that he just takes over those costs when we go abroad for
0:03:40 > 0:03:43three or four months, whatever it is.
0:03:43 > 0:03:46And there's no other outgoings other than the utilities here.
0:03:46 > 0:03:51He takes over that and we're completely bill-free.
0:03:51 > 0:03:54Being bill-free will save the couple £200 a month.
0:03:54 > 0:03:58They'll use this as living expenses abroad.
0:03:58 > 0:04:00When their son has flown the coop,
0:04:00 > 0:04:03Roger and Margaret could decide to do things differently
0:04:03 > 0:04:07in order to make their winter getaways cost neutral.
0:04:07 > 0:04:10Local estate agents estimate that their three-bedroomed house could be
0:04:10 > 0:04:13rented out for around £700 a month
0:04:13 > 0:04:16in this particular area of Liverpool.
0:04:19 > 0:04:23The couple have set their winter sunshine budget at £900 a month
0:04:23 > 0:04:26to cover all their expenses while they're away.
0:04:26 > 0:04:29And 700 of that is allocated for accommodation,
0:04:29 > 0:04:32but that also has to include all utility bills.
0:04:35 > 0:04:39And where do our couple want to go to beat those winter blues?
0:04:41 > 0:04:45We've decided to spend winters in Spain rather than Liverpool.
0:04:45 > 0:04:50Margaret and Roger hope to be saying bye-bye to the miserable Mersey
0:04:50 > 0:04:53winters and hello to the sun and heat.
0:04:53 > 0:04:56UPBEAT MUSIC PLAYS
0:04:59 > 0:05:02Last year, the couple spent their holidays in the Mijas area of the
0:05:02 > 0:05:06Costa Del Sol, which is in southern Spain,
0:05:06 > 0:05:08and this is where they want to spend their winter months.
0:05:11 > 0:05:16The area is famed for its long, long sandy beaches and traditional towns.
0:05:18 > 0:05:22The region has a thriving market economy where foodie Roger can shop
0:05:22 > 0:05:25for all that fresh fruit and veg
0:05:25 > 0:05:27and Margaret, of course, can enjoy the craft stalls.
0:05:29 > 0:05:32The winter season lasts from October to April
0:05:32 > 0:05:36and during this period, it can be possible to pay the same amount in
0:05:36 > 0:05:39rent per month as you would per week in the high season.
0:05:44 > 0:05:47Helping Margaret and Roger in their search is local property expert
0:05:47 > 0:05:49Toni Crook.
0:05:49 > 0:05:51Can you tell me, what's your preferred budget?
0:05:51 > 0:05:55Originally from Essex, Toni first moved to southern Spain 15 years
0:05:55 > 0:05:57ago and she's been running her
0:05:57 > 0:06:00property business there for the last four years.
0:06:00 > 0:06:04The thing I enjoy most about my job is actually meeting people.
0:06:04 > 0:06:07I've always been a people person and to meet somebody at the
0:06:07 > 0:06:10beginning of a property search and then to find something for them that
0:06:10 > 0:06:14they absolutely love, it's great. I really enjoy that.
0:06:14 > 0:06:18However, her years of experience tell Toni this search will be no
0:06:18 > 0:06:22- easy task.- The rental market over here is crazy at the moment.
0:06:22 > 0:06:26We've got so many clients but such a small amount of stock.
0:06:26 > 0:06:28People come over here expecting not to have to compromise on finding a
0:06:28 > 0:06:31property. They think they're going to find exactly what they want,
0:06:31 > 0:06:35but really there is an awful lot of compromise.
0:06:35 > 0:06:38First up, Toni has to find out what's on Roger and Margaret's
0:06:38 > 0:06:41wish list for their perfect winter getaway pad...
0:06:45 > 0:06:48..and, of course, which one of them will be joining her in Mijas for the
0:06:48 > 0:06:51property search. SKYPE RINGTONE
0:06:51 > 0:06:53- Roger?- Hello, yeah, I'm Roger.
0:06:53 > 0:06:56- Nice to meet you. Hello, Margaret, I'm Toni.- Hello, Toni.
0:06:56 > 0:06:59- What's the weather like there today?- Oh, it's chucking it down.
0:06:59 > 0:07:03- Raining. - LAUGHTER
0:07:03 > 0:07:06What about the property? What are you actually looking for in a property?
0:07:06 > 0:07:09- What do you want?- An apartment. Two-bedroom, ideally.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12- A little balcony would be nice. - Just a terrace would be fine?
0:07:12 > 0:07:15- Terrace, yeah.- But you'd like views?- Yeah.
0:07:15 > 0:07:18But not too high up a hill, for instance, cos...
0:07:18 > 0:07:21it's all right walking down them, but it's hard getting back up them.
0:07:21 > 0:07:24And we don't really want to have a studio or an open-plan where you're
0:07:24 > 0:07:26sitting in the living room, looking at your kitchen.
0:07:26 > 0:07:29So you don't...you're not that keen on open-plan?
0:07:29 > 0:07:33- No.- What kind of budget are you allocating for this?
0:07:33 > 0:07:37Well, we're looking in the region of between 500-700 a month.
0:07:37 > 0:07:42OK. So, which one of you is going to be coming over to do the search?
0:07:42 > 0:07:46- That'll be me, Toni.- OK. That's great.- Yeah.- Yes, I've given him a
0:07:46 > 0:07:49- list, so he knows what I like and what I don't like. - LAUGHTER
0:07:49 > 0:07:53- Well, I'll make sure I keep hold of that list. - LAUGHTER
0:07:53 > 0:07:57- You take care. Bye-bye.- Bye-bye, Toni.- Bye.- Bye.
0:07:57 > 0:07:59Roger may be the man on the ground for the search,
0:07:59 > 0:08:01but this will be a joint decision.
0:08:01 > 0:08:05I've got my wife's permission to make any decision I like.
0:08:05 > 0:08:07LAUGHTER
0:08:09 > 0:08:11Roger and Margaret have £700 set
0:08:11 > 0:08:14aside for accommodation and utilities.
0:08:14 > 0:08:17Ideally, they would like an apartment with two bedrooms,
0:08:17 > 0:08:19a separate kitchen and living room
0:08:19 > 0:08:21and a balcony, of course, for the view.
0:08:27 > 0:08:29UP-TEMPO MUSIC PLAYS
0:08:30 > 0:08:33In Mijas, winter has arrived,
0:08:33 > 0:08:37and with it a slower pace of life from the hustle and bustle of the
0:08:37 > 0:08:39summer season.
0:08:39 > 0:08:43Already the winter blues that Roger suffers from have been replaced with
0:08:43 > 0:08:45a sunnier outlook.
0:08:46 > 0:08:50I awoke this morning and the first thing I noticed was the sunrise just
0:08:50 > 0:08:53over the sea.
0:08:53 > 0:08:56And this beautiful, gorgeous sunshine woke me up this morning
0:08:56 > 0:09:00and I'm thinking, "Back in Liverpool, my wife's waking up to
0:09:00 > 0:09:03"rain, cold, damp."
0:09:03 > 0:09:06This is what living in Spain is all about in the winter.
0:09:06 > 0:09:08Absolutely fantastic.
0:09:08 > 0:09:11I'm really looking forward to looking round some properties and
0:09:11 > 0:09:13getting the feel of the place
0:09:13 > 0:09:16and whether I'd be comfortable living there.
0:09:16 > 0:09:19Toni is on her way to pick up Roger.
0:09:19 > 0:09:23The search for Roger and Margaret has actually been quite difficult.
0:09:23 > 0:09:26At the moment, there's not an awful lot around.
0:09:26 > 0:09:28We are really low on stock.
0:09:28 > 0:09:31Lots of clients, but not lots of properties.
0:09:31 > 0:09:35Roger's got a big task ahead of him, but I think he'll be up for it
0:09:35 > 0:09:39and he'll enjoy it as well.
0:09:39 > 0:09:42- Hello, Roger.- Nice to meet you.- And you.- And you.- Nice Spanish greeting.
0:09:42 > 0:09:45- Let's go and find some properties. - Right, let's go.
0:09:47 > 0:09:50Toni has found four rental properties that she hopes meet Roger
0:09:50 > 0:09:52and Margaret's criteria.
0:09:52 > 0:09:55UPBEAT MUSIC PLAYS
0:09:55 > 0:09:57How is Margaret coping at home on her own?
0:09:57 > 0:10:00Oh, she's... I did have a quick text to her this morning.
0:10:00 > 0:10:02- I've sent her a picture off the balcony.- You didn't!
0:10:02 > 0:10:07- That's cruel. That is so cruel. - LAUGHTER
0:10:07 > 0:10:10At each property, Roger will video call Margaret back in Blighty to
0:10:10 > 0:10:12get her opinion.
0:10:13 > 0:10:15So how are you feeling about the search?
0:10:15 > 0:10:17Well, I want to find something that feels like a home,
0:10:17 > 0:10:21- rather than just a holiday let. - That's right, yeah.
0:10:21 > 0:10:25Roger's after a home-away-from-home feel,
0:10:25 > 0:10:30so has this first property got it? LIVELY MUSIC PLAYS
0:10:30 > 0:10:33She's taking Roger to Calle Mijas,
0:10:33 > 0:10:35a small suburb of the coastal town El Faro.
0:10:40 > 0:10:42El Faro is a very peaceful place to live -
0:10:42 > 0:10:44away from the tourist hotspots,
0:10:44 > 0:10:48people are attracted here by its quiet and very friendly atmosphere.
0:10:51 > 0:10:54Toni is going to show Roger a flat in a residential complex with
0:10:54 > 0:10:59manicured garden grounds and a residents-only swimming pool.
0:10:59 > 0:11:01Will this second-floor apartment
0:11:01 > 0:11:05have that home-away-from-home vibe that Roger would like?
0:11:05 > 0:11:08- You can feel the quiet. - It's very peaceful.- Peaceful, yeah.
0:11:08 > 0:11:12- Very tranquila, tranquila.- Yeah, tranquila.- Here we are.
0:11:15 > 0:11:20This modern apartment is fully furnished and includes television
0:11:20 > 0:11:24and Wi-Fi access. The living room has a dining area with table and
0:11:24 > 0:11:29chairs and an L-shaped sofa for some of that tranquila lounging.
0:11:29 > 0:11:32- Can you see yourself relaxing there, Roger?- Yeah, I think so.
0:11:32 > 0:11:35- Yeah...- There you go.- ..why not?
0:11:35 > 0:11:37And sitting here, watching TV?
0:11:37 > 0:11:41- Is it comfortable?- It's all right, yeah.- It is actually surprisingly
0:11:41 > 0:11:44- comfortable...- Actually, yeah, yeah. - ..isn't it? Yeah.
0:11:44 > 0:11:48The fully kitted-out kitchen is located next to the front door.
0:11:48 > 0:11:52Margaret doesn't want an open-plan living area.
0:11:52 > 0:11:55Has Toni managed to find a middle ground with this
0:11:55 > 0:11:59kind of, but not quite, open-plan kitchen?
0:11:59 > 0:12:01- My domain.- Roger, what do you think?
0:12:01 > 0:12:04Can you see yourself in here preparing some food for Margaret?
0:12:04 > 0:12:07Yeah, I don't see why not. I mean, there's enough...there's space here.
0:12:07 > 0:12:11There's working space. Bright and airy. It's fine. It's lovely.
0:12:15 > 0:12:19The couple would have liked two bedrooms, but this apartment, I'm
0:12:19 > 0:12:21afraid, only has one.
0:12:21 > 0:12:25However, it is a good size and it's got plenty of storage.
0:12:28 > 0:12:30Here, the bathroom.
0:12:30 > 0:12:33The bathroom. Oh, yes.
0:12:33 > 0:12:36- It is quite small, isn't it? - Compact. Compact.- Yeah.
0:12:36 > 0:12:39He's a straight talker is our Roger.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42So far, so OK.
0:12:42 > 0:12:44But there's still one thing left to see.
0:12:47 > 0:12:50- Just look at this. - Oh, that is a view, isn't it?
0:12:50 > 0:12:52- It is a view, indeed, isn't it?- It's beautiful.
0:12:52 > 0:12:54What's Margaret going to think of this?
0:12:54 > 0:12:57- Oh, she'll love this.- Yeah?- She would love this view.
0:12:57 > 0:13:01- This is fantastic. It's sold on the view, put it that way. - LAUGHTER
0:13:01 > 0:13:04Will this apartment and those stunning views fit Roger and
0:13:04 > 0:13:08Margaret's maximum accommodation budget of £700 a month -
0:13:08 > 0:13:11of course, including bills?
0:13:11 > 0:13:14The price of this property is £600,
0:13:14 > 0:13:18and that does include all of your bills.
0:13:18 > 0:13:22- So that's gas, electricity... Well, not gas, but electric, water...- Electricity, yes.
0:13:22 > 0:13:26- So there's no extras.- That's an excellent price.
0:13:26 > 0:13:30Tony's watchword in this rental search is compromise.
0:13:30 > 0:13:32The view is a big plus point
0:13:32 > 0:13:36and with a price tag well within the couple's budget,
0:13:36 > 0:13:39are Roger and Margaret willing to compromise on the bedrooms and the
0:13:39 > 0:13:43not-quite-open-plan kitchen?
0:13:43 > 0:13:46Back in Liverpool, Margaret is eagerly waiting for Roger to call
0:13:46 > 0:13:50and give her a guided tour by videophone.
0:13:50 > 0:13:53Roger won't mind things as much as I will. You know, he'll put up with
0:13:53 > 0:13:55something and I think, "I'm not having that."
0:13:55 > 0:13:57But he'll put up with it. So I've said to Toni, you know,
0:13:57 > 0:13:59what I want and what I don't want.
0:13:59 > 0:14:01So I'm hoping Roger will remember.
0:14:01 > 0:14:04- Hi!- See the sunshine behind me?
0:14:04 > 0:14:07- Yes.- Beautiful view.
0:14:07 > 0:14:10Hang on a sec. I'll start from the left, moving across.
0:14:10 > 0:14:12- As you can see, the sea.- I can see the sea.
0:14:12 > 0:14:15Good. Margaret's smiling already.
0:14:15 > 0:14:18So we're about a 10-15 minute walk,
0:14:18 > 0:14:24- but unfortunately, it is uphill. - Oh, no.- Hmm. That smile has gone.
0:14:24 > 0:14:27- I don't like hills.- You know, this is the compromise we have to have.
0:14:27 > 0:14:31Well, unfortunately, to get a beautiful view, it's up high.
0:14:31 > 0:14:35I'm hoping Margaret's going to react positively to the apartment,
0:14:35 > 0:14:39although it is a little bit higher up than they'd hoped for.
0:14:39 > 0:14:41But they have got these super views
0:14:41 > 0:14:43and that really is the price that you pay.
0:14:43 > 0:14:44This is the living room.
0:14:44 > 0:14:47Well, it's small but perfectly-formed.
0:14:47 > 0:14:49And this is the kitchenette.
0:14:49 > 0:14:52As you can see, you've got the serving hatchway there.
0:14:52 > 0:14:55I don't like the kitchen.
0:14:55 > 0:14:57I think it's very small. Is there a dishwasher?
0:14:57 > 0:14:59No, there's no dishwasher, unfortunately.
0:14:59 > 0:15:01Well, you're the main cook and I'm the dishwasher,
0:15:01 > 0:15:06- so I was hoping that I might not have to do it manually. - THEY CHUCKLE
0:15:06 > 0:15:08Is it the only bedroom?
0:15:08 > 0:15:11Yeah, there is only one bedroom in this flat, unfortunately.
0:15:11 > 0:15:13It's a flat with a few compromises,
0:15:13 > 0:15:16but Margaret is keeping an open mind.
0:15:16 > 0:15:18It's very nice.
0:15:18 > 0:15:20It's small, but it's a very nice little flat.
0:15:20 > 0:15:23Yeah, OK. Lovely.
0:15:23 > 0:15:27- Cheerio, then, darling. - OK, see you later. Bye.
0:15:30 > 0:15:33- How did it go?- It went good, actually. I was very surprised.
0:15:33 > 0:15:37There was a couple of points there I thought she might have pulled up on, but she was quite happy.
0:15:37 > 0:15:40Mentioned about the view as well, being slightly higher than we would like.
0:15:40 > 0:15:43- But did she love the view? - She loved the view. - LAUGHTER
0:15:44 > 0:15:47Oh, well, that's good. That's really good. So this is a very real possibility?
0:15:47 > 0:15:51- It may well be, yes.- Fantastic.- It may well be. It's a positive from both of us at the moment.
0:15:51 > 0:15:54- Oh, that's great.- Yeah.
0:15:54 > 0:15:57The all-inclusive rental price of £600,
0:15:57 > 0:15:59and of course that marvellous view,
0:15:59 > 0:16:02plus Margaret and Roger's willingness to compromise,
0:16:02 > 0:16:04make this apartment a contender.
0:16:11 > 0:16:14While Roger is soaking up the sun,
0:16:14 > 0:16:18poor Margaret is avoiding being soaked by the rain.
0:16:18 > 0:16:21The weather has been quite miserable.
0:16:21 > 0:16:23Heavy showers, wind, rain.
0:16:23 > 0:16:25Hailstones at one point.
0:16:25 > 0:16:28Roger was telling me he's sat out on the balcony in his hotel,
0:16:28 > 0:16:31overlooking the sea view with his glass of wine and it was very
0:16:31 > 0:16:34pleasant, watching the sunset,
0:16:34 > 0:16:38and I'm sat in here going, "Oh, more rain!"
0:16:38 > 0:16:41The couple have just had enough of being cooped up indoors during the
0:16:41 > 0:16:44cold season in the north-west of England.
0:16:46 > 0:16:50During the summer months, Roger loves to fish.
0:16:50 > 0:16:52In Mijas, he's looking forward to
0:16:52 > 0:16:55spending the winter months rod in hand.
0:16:57 > 0:17:00The sun should alleviate the balance of seasonal affective disorder,
0:17:00 > 0:17:02known as SAD.
0:17:02 > 0:17:04And, of course, that's what Roger experiences.
0:17:04 > 0:17:07One in three Britons suffer from this form of depression.
0:17:07 > 0:17:11It typically gets worse as the days get shorter.
0:17:11 > 0:17:13Symptoms can include anxiety,
0:17:13 > 0:17:17insomnia and a weakened immune system.
0:17:17 > 0:17:20It can be so disabling that sufferers find it hard to function
0:17:20 > 0:17:22without treatment, which can include
0:17:22 > 0:17:25exposure to natural sunlight and antidepressants.
0:17:29 > 0:17:33If Roger and Margaret are going to enjoy a new fun and sun-filled
0:17:33 > 0:17:36lifestyle, they need to find somewhere to stay.
0:17:36 > 0:17:39What do you think's going to be different, then, living out here,
0:17:39 > 0:17:41apart from obviously the weather?
0:17:41 > 0:17:44You know, like, a slightly healthier lifestyle, to be truthful.
0:17:44 > 0:17:47You're snuggled up in your houses with your
0:17:47 > 0:17:49winter woollies on and all this sort of business,
0:17:49 > 0:17:52whereas in...you can still stroll around in a T-shirt and a pair of
0:17:52 > 0:17:54shorts during the day here.
0:17:57 > 0:18:01Toni is taking Roger to see a property on the outskirts of the
0:18:01 > 0:18:04coastal town of La Cala de Mijas.
0:18:04 > 0:18:09Roger and Margaret stayed in the heart of La Cala, as it is known
0:18:09 > 0:18:12locally, when they were on holiday. Until the 1960s,
0:18:12 > 0:18:15it was a tiny little fishing village,
0:18:15 > 0:18:18but it quickly expanded when the tourist boom began
0:18:18 > 0:18:20to take advantage of its exquisite beach.
0:18:22 > 0:18:25There are cafes and bars aplenty
0:18:25 > 0:18:27and a twice-weekly market selling items
0:18:27 > 0:18:30such as artisan breads and olive oil.
0:18:32 > 0:18:35The beachfront offers a wide range of activities
0:18:35 > 0:18:38and it's a great place to fish.
0:18:38 > 0:18:42La Cala de Mijas is a blend of modern tourist amenities and a
0:18:42 > 0:18:44traditional Spanish way of life.
0:18:48 > 0:18:50The area that we're going to now, Roger,
0:18:50 > 0:18:53I know is one that you and Margaret particularly like.
0:18:53 > 0:18:55- Oh, good.- It's just on the outskirts of the town.
0:18:55 > 0:18:57- Oh, lovely.- It's very close to the market,
0:18:57 > 0:19:02- which I think you know is on twice a week.- Wednesday and a Saturday, yeah.
0:19:02 > 0:19:05- I think you probably know this area better than I do. - LAUGHTER
0:19:07 > 0:19:11The apartment is in a private gated community,
0:19:11 > 0:19:13catering primarily to tourists.
0:19:18 > 0:19:21I must say, Toni has turned up trumps with a spacious living
0:19:21 > 0:19:24room, which is separate from the kitchen, just as Margaret wanted.
0:19:26 > 0:19:29As the chief cook in this relationship,
0:19:29 > 0:19:32Roger can spend quite a bit of time in the kitchen
0:19:32 > 0:19:35and this one has all the mod cons that he could possibly want.
0:19:35 > 0:19:40- So here we have...- Kitchen.- ..a kitchen.- Yeah, this is what I'm talking about.
0:19:40 > 0:19:43- This is fantastic.- You like this, do you?- Yeah.- Oh, I am pleased.
0:19:43 > 0:19:46- This is what you're talking about.- Yeah.
0:19:46 > 0:19:48- Could you see yourself here? - Oh, yeah.
0:19:48 > 0:19:52Separate kitchen, stacks of space to work on, more than happy.
0:19:52 > 0:19:55- This is ideal.- OK.- This is what we're looking for.- Smashing.
0:19:55 > 0:19:59- Exactly the sort of thing I'm looking for.- That's what I want to hear.
0:19:59 > 0:20:02Next door to the kitchen is a guest bedroom.
0:20:02 > 0:20:07- Two bedrooms, yeah.- Yeah.- It's good, yeah.- I thought that would please you.
0:20:11 > 0:20:13The second bedroom is an en-suite,
0:20:13 > 0:20:17and the master bathroom is stylishly finished.
0:20:17 > 0:20:20- That's a nice long bath. - Yeah?- It's a good size.
0:20:20 > 0:20:24- Margaret will like that, will she? - Yeah.- She likes a bath? - She likes a long bath, yeah.
0:20:24 > 0:20:27So Toni's got a new requirement for her check list -
0:20:27 > 0:20:30Margaret likes a bath.
0:20:30 > 0:20:33Last up is the master bedroom,
0:20:33 > 0:20:36which comes with a television connected to UK satellite channels.
0:20:38 > 0:20:41The inside of the apartment has everything that Roger and Margaret
0:20:41 > 0:20:43asked for, but...
0:20:43 > 0:20:45what about the outside?
0:20:45 > 0:20:49- Nice table and chairs. - Yeah, nice space.- Lots of space.
0:20:49 > 0:20:52- Margaret's going to be OK with this, is she?- Yeah, she'll be happy with this.
0:20:52 > 0:20:57- The only thing she'll miss is a view.- Yes.- You know? She likes a room with a view.
0:20:57 > 0:21:00Yeah. Unfortunately, that's...
0:21:00 > 0:21:02- It's ground floor. - Here comes that word again,
0:21:02 > 0:21:05because the couple will have to compromise on views for this
0:21:05 > 0:21:08apartment, and also on price.
0:21:08 > 0:21:11At £740 a month, including all bills,
0:21:11 > 0:21:16it's £40 over their accommodation budget.
0:21:16 > 0:21:18- Hello.- Hello.
0:21:18 > 0:21:21OK, well, I'm going to show you the apartment that we're in.
0:21:21 > 0:21:23I'm going to start you off in the kitchen.
0:21:23 > 0:21:27- Right.- OK, I'll flip you round. - Oh, thanks. - LAUGHTER
0:21:29 > 0:21:32The beauty of this kitchen is it's completely separate from
0:21:32 > 0:21:35everything else within the apartment
0:21:35 > 0:21:37and it's got a sliding door as well.
0:21:37 > 0:21:40So in the evening time, that's it, it's done.
0:21:40 > 0:21:43I like that kitchen. It's nice and bright.
0:21:43 > 0:21:47- A nice full-size bath for you. - Oooh! That's a treat.
0:21:49 > 0:21:51And as we come in to the living room area...
0:21:51 > 0:21:53Yeah, it's nice and bright, isn't it? Neutral colours.
0:21:53 > 0:21:55A lot lighter. I do like that.
0:21:56 > 0:21:59As you can see, 3-piece suite, entertainment centre.
0:21:59 > 0:22:02I could see myself sat on that chair, looking at the television.
0:22:02 > 0:22:05- Can you?- Yeah. - LAUGHTER
0:22:05 > 0:22:08Lovely. Margaret is already imagining herself at home here.
0:22:08 > 0:22:10So, a great start.
0:22:10 > 0:22:13- Here we are, moving into the bedroom.- I think it's ideal. I mean, it looks nice.
0:22:13 > 0:22:16Nice and bright. Access to the patio from the bedroom.
0:22:16 > 0:22:21Access to the patio from the bedroom. Yeah, that's a good idea, isn't it?
0:22:21 > 0:22:23This property for Roger and Margaret should be spot-on.
0:22:23 > 0:22:27The downside, I think, that perhaps Margaret may feel a little bit
0:22:27 > 0:22:31dubious about, is that it is on the ground floor and it doesn't have any views.
0:22:31 > 0:22:35So that might be something that they'll compromise on.
0:22:35 > 0:22:38Here we are, on to the patio area.
0:22:38 > 0:22:41- Like a little garden.- Yeah, a little garden, yeah.
0:22:41 > 0:22:46- Not so much of a view, though, from...- No, that... This is your view.
0:22:46 > 0:22:48You've got two trees and the side of a building.
0:22:48 > 0:22:51The trees are better than looking at the side of a building.
0:22:51 > 0:22:53Yeah. So, overall, what do you think?
0:22:53 > 0:22:56I think it's very nice. I think it looks very bright,
0:22:56 > 0:22:58I think the location is ideal.
0:22:58 > 0:23:01So this is the sort of place that you want to look for?
0:23:01 > 0:23:06- So we'll keep it in the mix? - Yeah, yeah, I think that's definitely in the mix, yeah.
0:23:06 > 0:23:08How did we get on, then?
0:23:08 > 0:23:11- All right, actually, yeah. - Yeah?- A little tour around there.
0:23:11 > 0:23:15I quite like the apartment. It's just the right sort of size that we're looking for.
0:23:15 > 0:23:18- Right.- And I spoke to Margaret and she likes the look of it, too.
0:23:18 > 0:23:20- Good, good.- You know, so...
0:23:20 > 0:23:22And the location, I bet she really loves.
0:23:22 > 0:23:24The location is fantastic for us.
0:23:24 > 0:23:28- But overall you think this... - Overall it was...- A real contender? - A real contender, yeah.
0:23:28 > 0:23:30Yay! OK.
0:23:30 > 0:23:35The rental price for this apartment is £740 a month inclusive
0:23:35 > 0:23:37of bills. It's got the space
0:23:37 > 0:23:41that Roger and Margaret want in a location that they really like,
0:23:41 > 0:23:43but at £40 over their budget,
0:23:43 > 0:23:45is it worth the extra spend?
0:23:53 > 0:23:57Mijas attracts visitors from far and wide, right across the globe,
0:23:57 > 0:24:01with its long beaches and quaint traditional towns.
0:24:01 > 0:24:05In the summer months, the average price of a three-star self-catering
0:24:05 > 0:24:10apartment is £850 per week.
0:24:10 > 0:24:12In the winter, it's half of that.
0:24:14 > 0:24:19Even at the high end of the market, there are savings to be made,
0:24:19 > 0:24:23like this seven-bed contemporary villa.
0:24:23 > 0:24:25It's a sun worshipper's paradise.
0:24:28 > 0:24:32With open-plan design and floor-to-ceiling windows,
0:24:32 > 0:24:36this sun palace is engulfed in natural light.
0:24:36 > 0:24:39It's just gorgeous
0:24:39 > 0:24:43and it's available to rent for almost £13,000 a week in summer,
0:24:43 > 0:24:48but it's reduced to just under £5,000 in winter.
0:24:48 > 0:24:50Or there's this seven-bed villa.
0:24:53 > 0:24:56More traditional in style, it's lavishly furnished.
0:24:59 > 0:25:02This property is available to rent for £3,000 a week in winter.
0:25:03 > 0:25:06In summer, it's nearer seven - more than double.
0:25:11 > 0:25:12Whatever your budget,
0:25:12 > 0:25:16there are sunshine bargains to be had by getting away for the winter.
0:25:25 > 0:25:27For property number three,
0:25:27 > 0:25:31Toni is taking Roger away from the coast and up into the hills,
0:25:31 > 0:25:35to the beautiful whitewashed town of Mijas Pueblo.
0:25:38 > 0:25:40Located about ten miles from La Cala,
0:25:40 > 0:25:44it nestles in the mountainside, 400 metres above sea level.
0:25:45 > 0:25:52There is, however, easy access by road with regular public transport.
0:25:52 > 0:25:57There's been a settlement here for over 500 years.
0:25:57 > 0:25:59The town's narrow, winding streets -
0:25:59 > 0:26:04filled with shops selling local art, craft and handmade pottery -
0:26:04 > 0:26:08give way to open-end plazas, which host weekly markets
0:26:08 > 0:26:12and are ringed by restaurants and cafes with spectacular views.
0:26:15 > 0:26:18Roger and Margaret visited the town during their holiday last year
0:26:18 > 0:26:20and they found it just stunning.
0:26:22 > 0:26:25This is the road leading up to the Mijas Pueblo.
0:26:25 > 0:26:28Oh, the Pueblo, you've been up here before, have you, Roger?
0:26:28 > 0:26:30- Yeah, I've been...- OK, so you know...
0:26:30 > 0:26:33The last time we were out here, we popped up on the bus.
0:26:35 > 0:26:39The thing that this area does have for you is it's got everything on
0:26:39 > 0:26:42its doorstep. You've got shops, bars, restaurants...
0:26:42 > 0:26:44Yeah.
0:26:46 > 0:26:49And being away from the coast means you get more room for your rent.
0:26:54 > 0:26:57This apartment is located in the centre of the town,
0:26:57 > 0:27:02but is still inundated with natural light from the large patio doors,
0:27:02 > 0:27:05which will hopefully be a plus point for Roger.
0:27:05 > 0:27:07Here we are.
0:27:07 > 0:27:09Ah! There's lots of light coming in, natural light.
0:27:09 > 0:27:11This is good.
0:27:11 > 0:27:14The apartment is light and bright,
0:27:14 > 0:27:18but will the kitchen meet our head chef's requirements?
0:27:18 > 0:27:20Right, here we are. So you've got the kitchen.
0:27:20 > 0:27:22You've got a good range of cupboards.
0:27:22 > 0:27:26- Yeah. Yeah, I could...- A decent-sized cooker.- Yeah.- And look what's there next to it!
0:27:26 > 0:27:30- A dishwasher!- Dishwasher. Margaret... Margaret, we've found you a dishwasher.
0:27:30 > 0:27:34- It's a good set-up, to be honest. It really is.- In actual fact, it is...- It's well fitted in.- It is,
0:27:34 > 0:27:37- it is...- Yeah, it's got everything you need.
0:27:37 > 0:27:40Yes indeed, the dishwasher will certainly please Margaret.
0:27:40 > 0:27:42She also wanted views.
0:27:42 > 0:27:45Well, Toni's brought them to the right place here.
0:27:45 > 0:27:48The balcony leads to the building's pool area,
0:27:48 > 0:27:52which has plenty of space to recline, relax, soak up all that
0:27:52 > 0:27:57sun and enjoy la extraordinario vista.
0:27:57 > 0:28:00- So, here we are.- All right. - The bedroom, master bedroom.
0:28:00 > 0:28:02Nice, clean and bright bedroom.
0:28:02 > 0:28:07- I take it it's the master because there's an en-suite.- There's an en-suite- bathroom. Yeah. Yeah? Good.
0:28:07 > 0:28:10The master bedroom with an en-suite
0:28:10 > 0:28:12bathroom has Roger's seal of approval
0:28:12 > 0:28:16and there's plenty of storage space within the fitted wardrobes.
0:28:20 > 0:28:23Toni has turned up trumps with the second bedroom and additional shower
0:28:23 > 0:28:28room, making this property ideal for friends and relatives who may want
0:28:28 > 0:28:30to come over for a visit.
0:28:32 > 0:28:35The apartment is in a beautiful location
0:28:35 > 0:28:38and with a rental price of just over £500 a month,
0:28:38 > 0:28:40it's well within budget.
0:28:42 > 0:28:46Ah, but will Margaret be able to see past an open-plan kitchen?
0:28:48 > 0:28:52- Hi there. Hello, Marg. - Hi.- Buen dias.
0:28:52 > 0:28:54- Ooh! - LAUGHTER
0:28:54 > 0:28:57This is the living room.
0:28:57 > 0:29:00It's nice and bright. A lot of rooms off one central room.
0:29:00 > 0:29:04- Yeah. What do you think of that? - Well, I think it's a bit small, actually.
0:29:04 > 0:29:06OK, we're walking into the master bedroom.
0:29:06 > 0:29:09- Wardrobe.- Built-in wardrobe.
0:29:09 > 0:29:13- Built-in wardrobes, that's a plus, yeah. Good.- This is bedroom two.
0:29:13 > 0:29:18Oh, two bedrooms, yeah. Good. Fine for a guest room.
0:29:18 > 0:29:21Well, so far, there have been more pros than cons.
0:29:23 > 0:29:26This property has two bedrooms, two bathrooms.
0:29:26 > 0:29:29It has superb views and it's well within their budget.
0:29:29 > 0:29:34However, I have taken a little bit of a risk, because it's open-plan.
0:29:34 > 0:29:38What's the kitchen like? Is it part of the living room or is it separate?
0:29:38 > 0:29:42Yeah, unfortunately. I'll turn you back round and I'll show you.
0:29:42 > 0:29:46But it has everything, you know, you need. It's got the fridge-freezer, it's got your washing machine...
0:29:46 > 0:29:49- It looks very small.- ..and it's got...
0:29:49 > 0:29:51..a dishwasher!
0:29:51 > 0:29:53Yay! Well, that's a plus!
0:29:53 > 0:29:56And it's cooker hood etc, but a hob.
0:29:56 > 0:29:59- I'm not so keen on the layout, to be honest.- No.
0:29:59 > 0:30:02I don't think there's enough work space for you to do your creations.
0:30:02 > 0:30:03- No. - LAUGHTER
0:30:03 > 0:30:07- Everything's off the living room, isn't it? Just one room with all the...- It is. It's basically
0:30:07 > 0:30:10just one box with little boxes around the outside of it.
0:30:10 > 0:30:13- Yeah, yeah.- All right, I'll talk to you a bit later anyway.
0:30:13 > 0:30:17- I'll say cheerio for now.- OK, then. Bye for now.- Bye, then. Bye.
0:30:17 > 0:30:20Well, after seeing that property, I'm quite disappointed.
0:30:20 > 0:30:21It was very small,
0:30:21 > 0:30:24which you could maybe put up with for a week or two on holiday,
0:30:24 > 0:30:27but not to live for two months.
0:30:27 > 0:30:31This apartment has a rental price well within Roger and Margaret's
0:30:31 > 0:30:34budget, at just over £500.
0:30:34 > 0:30:39It's in a spectacular location and fits most of their requirements.
0:30:39 > 0:30:41But, I am afraid, for Margaret,
0:30:41 > 0:30:45the layout is a great big cross in the cons column.
0:30:51 > 0:30:54Roger and Margaret are determined to make their winter getaway an annual
0:30:54 > 0:30:59occurrence. This year the retirees are funding their season in the sun
0:30:59 > 0:31:00from their savings.
0:31:02 > 0:31:05Now, that means keeping a tight control on expenditure.
0:31:07 > 0:31:10We're quite good at budgeting things normally,
0:31:10 > 0:31:14even for the bills. Like the television, we don't leave on stand-by. Little things. I turn
0:31:14 > 0:31:17lights off, I follow Roger around the house, turning lights off.
0:31:17 > 0:31:20I tell him, "It's not Blackpool," and I go around the house.
0:31:20 > 0:31:24So we look at it as, when we're living away, we'll have the same outgoings each week, for
0:31:24 > 0:31:27food and things like that, as we would at home.
0:31:27 > 0:31:28Roger does a lot of the cooking,
0:31:28 > 0:31:31so it's going to be easier to do a lot of cooking in Spain rather than
0:31:31 > 0:31:34eating out every night. Two weeks' holiday, you eat out.
0:31:34 > 0:31:37If we're living there for a few months, we will be eating in a lot.
0:31:41 > 0:31:43Roger is a very keen cook.
0:31:43 > 0:31:47He loves Mediterranean cuisine and is looking forward to doing as the
0:31:47 > 0:31:51locals do - shopping at the fruit and veg market for food that, even
0:31:51 > 0:31:55in the winter months, is fresh from the farm.
0:31:55 > 0:31:57Fresh.
0:31:59 > 0:32:02A typical Spanish diet is high in healthy natural oils,
0:32:02 > 0:32:05fresh fruit and vegetables and, of course, fish.
0:32:05 > 0:32:08Eating like a local will contribute to the healthier lifestyle that
0:32:08 > 0:32:10Roger would really love.
0:32:14 > 0:32:17Mm. Beautiful garlicky taste. Beautiful.
0:32:17 > 0:32:20HE SPEAKS IN SPANISH
0:32:20 > 0:32:23Gracias, senor. This is his farm.
0:32:23 > 0:32:25He grows all his own produce here, all on his own farm.
0:32:25 > 0:32:28Something, you don't get a lot of in England.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31This is what it's all about over here.
0:32:31 > 0:32:35And remember, eating like a local is healthier for the bank balance as
0:32:35 > 0:32:39well. Buying fresh fruit and veg from the markets will save them an
0:32:39 > 0:32:45average of 50% in comparison to the supermarket prices in Liverpool.
0:32:45 > 0:32:48The one thing that is surprising on these stalls is the price of the
0:32:48 > 0:32:51vegetables and the fruit. Fresh produce, not shipped over in
0:32:51 > 0:32:54containers to the UK, and it's half the price,
0:32:54 > 0:32:58a third of the price in some cases. It really is good value.
0:32:59 > 0:33:03- Very, very good, my friend. - Fresh today?- Fresh today.- Yes.
0:33:03 > 0:33:07- Local, local. From Malaga. - That is beautiful. Sweet...
0:33:09 > 0:33:11Juicy and sweet. Beautiful.
0:33:11 > 0:33:14Anything else, my man? OK?
0:33:14 > 0:33:16Living out here in the wintertime,
0:33:16 > 0:33:18Margaret and I will be able to eat a lot fresher food.
0:33:18 > 0:33:22Normally in the wintertime you're eating stews and stuck indoors with
0:33:22 > 0:33:25the bad weather.
0:33:25 > 0:33:28Good food from the market, good living.
0:33:28 > 0:33:30That's what we're looking for.
0:33:35 > 0:33:38To find the la vida bella, as the Spanish would say,
0:33:38 > 0:33:42Toni is taking Roger back to the beachfront location
0:33:42 > 0:33:44of La Cala de Mijas.
0:33:46 > 0:33:49Having stayed in La Cala on holiday,
0:33:49 > 0:33:52it's familiar to Roger and Margaret and offers them everything they're
0:33:52 > 0:33:54after in a location.
0:33:56 > 0:33:58What do you like about this area?
0:33:58 > 0:34:02We like the town because it seems like a villagey type of atmosphere.
0:34:02 > 0:34:06- Yeah.- But there is lots and lots of things you can do here.
0:34:06 > 0:34:08I mean, we're driving past a bar
0:34:08 > 0:34:10- here that does a quiz on a Tuesday night.- Oh!- And then there's other
0:34:10 > 0:34:13bars that do quizzes, like, on a Thursday night,
0:34:13 > 0:34:17- which is something we like to do, you know, occasionally.- You're great quizzers, are you?- Yeah, we are.
0:34:17 > 0:34:21- Oh, I see. I didn't realise you were quizzers.- Yeah, we like a quiz.
0:34:21 > 0:34:25There's only one question Toni wants to be answered -
0:34:25 > 0:34:27"Is this the property for you?"
0:34:30 > 0:34:34It's located in a small residential enclave, popular with locals and
0:34:34 > 0:34:36foreigners because of its charming,
0:34:36 > 0:34:39traditional-style properties and it's only a short stroll
0:34:39 > 0:34:42from the town centre.
0:34:42 > 0:34:45- This is lovely.- Yeah? - Yeah.- Do you like it?
0:34:45 > 0:34:49Yeah, it's that sort of Spanishy feel. Yeah, I like this.
0:34:49 > 0:34:53- I like this.- Shall we move on in? - Yeah, yeah, go on.- Come on, then.
0:34:53 > 0:34:57The apartment is entered through a private terrace.
0:34:57 > 0:35:01It's south-facing, so it'll soak up the sun from dawn until dusk.
0:35:01 > 0:35:04- So, first impressions? - I like this, I like this terrace.
0:35:04 > 0:35:08- It's beautiful, isn't it?- Yeah. - Barbecue.- Yeah, love it.
0:35:08 > 0:35:09I like a barbecue.
0:35:12 > 0:35:15Here we are, into the kitchen.
0:35:15 > 0:35:18Nice range of cupboards. It's small, but, you know...
0:35:18 > 0:35:23- Compact.- It's compact. You've got a hob, sink, microwave... No oven.
0:35:23 > 0:35:25Ah. OK.
0:35:25 > 0:35:28No oven. Is that going to be a deal-breaker for you?
0:35:28 > 0:35:31- Not a deal-breaker, but it's certainly a minus.- Do you think
0:35:31 > 0:35:33- you'll be planning to...- I'd have to use the barbecue, yeah.
0:35:33 > 0:35:37Yeah. Do you think you'll be able to work your way around it?
0:35:37 > 0:35:41- I think I can.- Right.- It's not a deal-breaker, it's just a minus.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44This apartment has the largest living area of the four properties
0:35:44 > 0:35:46Toni has shown Roger.
0:35:46 > 0:35:50With windows in two walls, it's flooded with natural light.
0:35:52 > 0:35:55- Just look at that.- That's the view, isn't it?
0:35:55 > 0:35:59- That's why I brought you to this house.- Yeah, that's the view, isn't it?
0:35:59 > 0:36:02Here we have the back terrace.
0:36:02 > 0:36:06Oh, yeah. Oh, I like this.
0:36:06 > 0:36:09The apartment has an abundance of outside space -
0:36:09 > 0:36:11a private terrace at the front,
0:36:11 > 0:36:14a balcony at the back
0:36:14 > 0:36:17and each property in the block has access to the communal garden area
0:36:17 > 0:36:19and pool.
0:36:19 > 0:36:21The master bedroom is a really good size
0:36:21 > 0:36:24with built-in wardrobes and a dressing table.
0:36:24 > 0:36:26So there's plenty of storage space.
0:36:29 > 0:36:32There are also fitted wardrobes in the second bedroom,
0:36:32 > 0:36:36which is as light and bright as the rest of the property.
0:36:36 > 0:36:38There's always a snag, though, isn't there?
0:36:38 > 0:36:42There's only a single shower room and Margaret does enjoy a bath.
0:36:45 > 0:36:48Here you go. Oh, lovely.
0:36:48 > 0:36:51Does the open-plan aspect bother you?
0:36:51 > 0:36:56Well, actually, it's not quite as open-plan as you initially look at,
0:36:56 > 0:37:00because you have got the separation there. It's an archway doorway.
0:37:00 > 0:37:03But, yeah, on the whole, I find it fantastic.
0:37:03 > 0:37:07This property is £600 a month...
0:37:07 > 0:37:09- That's all in?- ..including all of your bills.
0:37:09 > 0:37:11That's what we're looking at now.
0:37:11 > 0:37:14Yeah, we've got a real strong contender here.
0:37:14 > 0:37:16I think we have. I'd like to get Margaret's views on this,
0:37:16 > 0:37:18that's for sure.
0:37:18 > 0:37:21Roger is getting really good vibes from this property.
0:37:21 > 0:37:23The question is, will Margaret feel the same?
0:37:25 > 0:37:27I'll show you the front of the property first.
0:37:27 > 0:37:30- Right.- We've got a barbecue.
0:37:30 > 0:37:34- Oh, outside barbie. - Outside barbie.- So far, so good.
0:37:34 > 0:37:36Let's get inside.
0:37:36 > 0:37:40- Here's the kitchen.- Yeah. - There's your microwave.
0:37:40 > 0:37:43There's your hob. And there's your sink.
0:37:43 > 0:37:48- No oven?- No oven. I think you spotted it straightaway.- Yeah.
0:37:48 > 0:37:50- There's the lounge.- Yeah.
0:37:50 > 0:37:53But if you look out the window here, from where the dining table is...
0:37:53 > 0:37:59- Oh, sea view! Oooh!- Sea view. - Yay!
0:37:59 > 0:38:01I'll walk you now into the bathroom.
0:38:01 > 0:38:03- Unfortunately...- No bath.
0:38:03 > 0:38:05You guessed it, there's no bath.
0:38:05 > 0:38:08This is the only bathroom in the place. Is it a breaker for you?
0:38:08 > 0:38:11No, it's not a deal-breaker if I like the location and the rest of the apartment.
0:38:11 > 0:38:13This property, for Roger and Margaret,
0:38:13 > 0:38:15a couple of little downsides -
0:38:15 > 0:38:20there's no oven in the kitchen and the bathroom doesn't have a bath.
0:38:20 > 0:38:24If they can overlook those two small things, then this will be the property for them.
0:38:24 > 0:38:27- I'm so sure.- Pool! Oh!
0:38:27 > 0:38:29Swimming pool, used for residents only.
0:38:29 > 0:38:34- There's the sea view again.- Sea view from the balcony.- From the balcony. - Yeah.
0:38:34 > 0:38:38- OK, so, what do you think? It's the ideal location.- Well, there are compromises to be made...
0:38:38 > 0:38:42- Of course.- ..but I think, in all the properties...- There are compromises. - Compromises.
0:38:42 > 0:38:47I think the compromises here are the kitchen and the bathroom.
0:38:47 > 0:38:48You're happy with the bathroom?
0:38:48 > 0:38:52And I'd be happy with the kitchen, I can work on that.
0:38:52 > 0:38:54- Hello.- Hello. How are you?
0:38:54 > 0:38:56Good, you? How did it go with Margaret?
0:38:56 > 0:39:00- Positive.- Really? - Yeah, she really liked it.- And?
0:39:00 > 0:39:03- Um, there's a few issues.- Yeah.
0:39:03 > 0:39:05It's not perfect, but we can talk through those.
0:39:05 > 0:39:08- But, on the whole, it was a good view.- Was it?- Yes.- Good.
0:39:08 > 0:39:12- So is this a contender?- It certainly is.- Oooh!
0:39:14 > 0:39:16At £600 a month,
0:39:16 > 0:39:19this apartment is smack-bang in the middle of Roger and Margaret's
0:39:19 > 0:39:22accommodation budget.
0:39:22 > 0:39:26They are willing to compromise on their interior wish list because the
0:39:26 > 0:39:28location and outside space are exactly right.
0:39:39 > 0:39:43Toni has opened Roger and Margaret's eyes to what is truly important to
0:39:43 > 0:39:46them when renting in Mijas for the winter months.
0:39:48 > 0:39:52- Hello, how are you?- I'm fine. Cold. - We were wishing you were here, though.
0:39:52 > 0:39:58- We have been.- Yeah.- Not as much as I'm wishing it.- Oh, I bet, I bet. - LAUGHTER
0:39:58 > 0:40:01Have you decided which one is your favourite? Do you have a favourite?
0:40:01 > 0:40:07- I have one that's favourite for the interior and one that's favourite for location.- And, Roger, do you
0:40:07 > 0:40:11- have a favourite at all?- For me, then, it would be between two properties, I think.- Yeah.
0:40:11 > 0:40:16I think, really, what's going to have to happen now is that you guys are going to have to sit
0:40:16 > 0:40:19down together and discuss what is really the most important to you.
0:40:19 > 0:40:22So you've got some, you've got some big decisions to make.
0:40:22 > 0:40:25- Just have to wait until he gets home.- I'll see you very soon, dear.
0:40:25 > 0:40:29Bye-bye. You take care.
0:40:29 > 0:40:33Roger is hoping that he and Margaret will soon be saying farewell
0:40:33 > 0:40:35to cold Liverpool...
0:40:36 > 0:40:38..and hola to sunny Spain.
0:40:41 > 0:40:45Retirees Roger and Margaret dreamed of escaping the harsh Merseyside
0:40:45 > 0:40:47winters for those sunnier climes.
0:40:48 > 0:40:51We've decided we might as well spend our winters in the sun rather than
0:40:51 > 0:40:54- in the cold, damp weather in England.- Yeah.
0:40:54 > 0:40:57Roger jetted to the Costa Del Sol,
0:40:57 > 0:41:01where property expert Toni had four rental apartments for the couple to
0:41:01 > 0:41:04- view.- How is Margaret coping at home on her own?
0:41:04 > 0:41:07- I sent her a picture from the balcony.- You didn't. That's cruel!
0:41:07 > 0:41:10- LAUGHTER - That is so cruel.
0:41:10 > 0:41:14Property number one had just the type of view the couple were after.
0:41:14 > 0:41:19- That's a view, isn't it? It's beautiful.- It's a view indeed, isn't it?- It's beautiful.
0:41:19 > 0:41:23But Margaret was unsure about its hillside location.
0:41:23 > 0:41:25Oh, no. Don't like hills.
0:41:25 > 0:41:28In property number two, Roger, who is a keen cook,
0:41:28 > 0:41:30loved the spacious kitchen.
0:41:30 > 0:41:33Oh, yeah, this is what I'm talking about. This is fantastic.
0:41:33 > 0:41:35- You like this, do you?- Yeah.
0:41:35 > 0:41:37And Margaret was also impressed.
0:41:37 > 0:41:41I think it's very nice. I think it looks very bright.
0:41:41 > 0:41:45The third apartment was in the stunning village of Mijas Pueblo,
0:41:45 > 0:41:48but the inside didn't fit the bill.
0:41:48 > 0:41:52- What do you think of that?- Well, I think it's a bit small, actually.
0:41:52 > 0:41:56Toni's final roll of the rental dice had the views the couple wanted...
0:41:56 > 0:42:00- Oh, sea view! Oooh!- Sea view.- Yay!
0:42:00 > 0:42:02..and was in La Cala de Mijas -
0:42:02 > 0:42:06the town they knew well from a summer holiday.
0:42:06 > 0:42:09So the big question is, which property, if any,
0:42:09 > 0:42:13have Margaret and Roger picked as their winter getaway,
0:42:13 > 0:42:16or are they still stuck in Liverpool?
0:42:19 > 0:42:21- Hello.- Hola.
0:42:21 > 0:42:23We've managed to get away from the winter and it's great.
0:42:23 > 0:42:25We've got two months and we're looking forward to it.
0:42:25 > 0:42:28We're going to pack lots into those two months.
0:42:28 > 0:42:31Roger and Margaret took the plunge and made it to Mijas.
0:42:31 > 0:42:35They kept searching for their perfect rental property and have
0:42:35 > 0:42:38secured a two-month lease on a two-bedroom apartment, just outside
0:42:38 > 0:42:43La Cala, for £740 a month.
0:42:43 > 0:42:45I managed to find this apartment online.
0:42:45 > 0:42:49I liked it mainly because it's on the ground floor, two-bedroom,
0:42:49 > 0:42:53two bathroom apartment. Kitchen- diner and then quite a large
0:42:53 > 0:42:57wraparound patio outside. And there's a window from the living
0:42:57 > 0:43:00room and each bedroom out onto the patio.
0:43:00 > 0:43:03We're here for two months and we've got a lot of things planned already.
0:43:03 > 0:43:06Things we want to see around the coast and further inland
0:43:06 > 0:43:09in Spain. Plus, we've got four different sets of people coming out
0:43:09 > 0:43:12to see us and we'll take day trips with them as well.
0:43:12 > 0:43:14It's all good, looking forward to it.
0:43:14 > 0:43:18- Bye now.- Bye.- Cheers.