It had been in my mind for a while how great it would be to buy a 'dream house' in Spain. After a conversation with a financial advisor, this turned out to be possible much sooner than expected. For that reason, I decided to book a ticket to Málaga in the summer of 2020 to further explore the region there. I also decided to approach a real estate agent on the west side of Málaga and one on the east side. Soon after completing my wish list on the Second Home Andalusia website, I was called by Marita. A very nice conversation and we made an appointment for a cup of coffee when I was in Spain.

During my stay in on the west side of Málaga, I was not yet sure. Was it really wise to buy a house in Spain? But when I met Marita on a terrace in Canillas de Aceituno and she explained to me what she and her team could do for me, it was clear. This feels good and especially the possibility that they could also support me with the rental of the house after the purchase. Then it was certain for me: the Axarquía, on the west side of Málaga, must become the region, for its nature and beautiful villages, but also because of Second Home Andalusia.

In February 2021 I saw a village house in Canillas de Aceituno and Marita made it possible for me to stay in the house for a week. What a great way to get to know a house well! Marita guided me in that week to arrange all practical and legal matters to make a purchase in order. In the end, that village hall was not meant to be. in April I was back, with a new wish list and had a day full of viewings with Marita. We had enough time to look at the houses, we discussed the possibilities and the consequences and above all it was a very pleasant day. With a nice result: the choice for a ground floor apartment on the edge of the white village of Sedella with a beautiful view and a garden with potential!

Within a few days the reservation contract was signed and 5 weeks later I was back in Sedella, this time with my boyfriend, to receive the key. Again, everything was well prepared and arranged. Despite the fact that buying a home, especially in a foreign country, is an exciting moment, I never once doubted this step. This is entirely thanks to team Second Home Andalusia team. A very nice and pleasant organization you you can fully trust upon.

My secret house, La Casita Secreta, will get some nice adjustments this year, so that it can be used for rental from spring 2022. But above all, I will enjoy it a lot myself, with friends and family. Malcolm, Jan, Caroline and Marita, thank you so much for all your help!

Sanne van Schaik