Although we normally receive mainly Spanish guests, a surprising number of foreign guests have stayed with us in September and October. Including, of course, several Dutch guests. Couples who consciously opted for the change between city (Alicante or Valencia), beach (Gandia, Dénia, Calpe or Moraira) and nature (with us in Vall de Gallinera). And while we were already huge fans of the Spanish guests, we can now say with confidence that the Dutch are also very sweet and pleasant guests. I am glad! Because in addition to the Spaniards (who often come from the Valencia region), I expect more and more Dutch people to come this way in the future. Not only for a holiday, but especially with the idea of - sooner or later – moving (partially or completely) to Spain.
And although some people want to postpone the latter because they still have to work for a number of years, there are others who would at least like to already take a look here and there. What exactly is for sale? Would you rather live in a village, a city or completely off the grid? Near the beach or the airport? Are you looking for a large house to start your own Bed & Breakfast or are you going to enjoy a well-deserved retirement?
Most people quickly realize that the viewing process in Spain is slightly different than in the Netherlands. “The real estate agent hugged us extensively at the meeting!” exclaims one of our guests in surprise upon their return. “Is that normal here?” I shake my head. Although my hand often remains unshaken in the air because most Spaniards greet each other (and therefore also me) with two kisses, I have never experienced that. But it doesn’t surprise me at all. “In the Netherlands, when selling a house, real estate agents always ensure that everything is taken care of down to the last detail,” she continues. I understand her immediately. When I sold my own house a long time ago, my father, who was a real estate agent himself, told me exactly how I could best present the house during a viewing. This usually does not happen in Spain. “One of the bathrooms was full of cleaning supplies. It looked like a storage cupboard instead of a bathroom!”, she continues.
I nod. I’ve seen that many times before. Because while in the Netherlands we prefer to present our house as empty and “clean” as possible, in some Spanish households there are sometimes five different tables with matching chairs crammed into the living room. It’s great if you buy the house with all its furnishings because the quality of the furniture is generally excellent and if you happen to have to fill a completely new Bed & Breakfast you’re in luck. But it’s less convenient if you prefer to have your own furniture shipped from the Netherlands. While the guests talk enthusiastically about the viewing, I think back to the time when we were also still in search of a house in Spain. Now that we have just celebrated our one-year anniversary (of the B&B) on October 20, 2024, it seems too long ago. Another lifetime. Because six years is a long time. Especially if you can’t wait to realize your new dream.