Planning on retiring to Spain in 2018

Hi guys

I'm planning on retiring to Spain - to Almería (province) some time in 2018. I don't know how brexit is going to affect this, although I would guess we'll still be in the EU then, so I'm not going to worry about that for now :)

I'm divorced and have to sell the marital home when my youngest daughter is 18 (youngest of 2), so will have some capital, although probably not much more than £70k tops. My income from pensions will be about £1000 a month. I'll be moving to Spain on my own (which is a little bit scary!) but I've been learning the language for a while now and I'm pretty sure I'll be ok in that respect.

Whether to buy or to rent is something I'm struggling with a little. Properties for sale on this site suggest buying is an option although I shudder to think what some of the cheaper properties are like! I don't much mind where I live (in Almería province) although I don't fancy being stuck out in the middle of nowhere living like a hermit if I can avoid it :) Buying is the preferred option as my income will be limited and I don't much like the idea of giving a large chunk of it to someone else on a regular monthly basis.

I'm very well aware that the internet tends to paint a very rosy picture at times so advice/suggestions/guidance from the real world would be gratefully accepted :)

Thanks

Doug

Rent. Your 70 grand sterling will rent a place and pay utilities for about 15 years to 20 years. You also have the advantage of being able to up sticks and go somewhere else if it doesn't suit. Buying and then moving on is a very expensive business in Spain what with agents fees, notary fees, transfer tax and so on.. You'll get a much better choice renting as well and about 10 grand of that 70 k will be eaten up in fees and taxes.

You also won't have to worry about the effect on Brexit (except for exchange rates, of course).