Santina’s Journal

Real stories about buying, living and investing on the Costa del Sol. Our team is comprised of four families who grew up here, went to school here and raised their own kids here. We write about the things people actually ask us: what areas feel right, what the process really looks like, and what we wish someone had told us when we started.

There’s No Shortage of New Builds on the Costa del Sol. There’s a Shortage of Good Ones.

There’s No Shortage of New Builds on the Costa del Sol. There’s a Shortage of Good Ones.

Mickey Sturhoofd 5 min read
Can Your Community Vote Away Your Holiday Rental? Since 2025, Yes

Can Your Community Vote Away Your Holiday Rental? Since 2025, Yes

Mickey Sturhoofd 5 min read
What It Costs to Sell a Property in Spain, and the Break-Even Number Nobody Works Out

What It Costs to Sell a Property in Spain, and the Break-Even Number Nobody Works Out

Mickey Sturhoofd 5 min read
A Tale of Two Spains: Why the Coast Is a Different Property Market

A Tale of Two Spains: Why the Coast Is a Different Property Market

Mickey Sturhoofd 5 min read
The Four Checks That Decide Whether You Should Buy That Spanish Property

The Four Checks That Decide Whether You Should Buy That Spanish Property

Mickey Sturhoofd 5 min read
Why Buying Off-Plan in Spain Is Safer Than It Feels

Why Buying Off-Plan in Spain Is Safer Than It Feels

Mickey Sturhoofd 5 min read
Where Your Money Actually Goes When You Buy a New Build on the Costa del Sol

Where Your Money Actually Goes When You Buy a New Build on the Costa del Sol

Mickey Sturhoofd 5 min read
One Trip, One Signature: Buying a Spanish Property From Home

One Trip, One Signature: Buying a Spanish Property From Home

Mickey Sturhoofd 5 min read
What It Really Costs to Buy in Andalucía, and the Tax Trap Hiding in a Bargain

What It Really Costs to Buy in Andalucía, and the Tax Trap Hiding in a Bargain

Mickey Sturhoofd 5 min read
In Spain, the Notary Is a Witness, Not Your Protector

In Spain, the Notary Is a Witness, Not Your Protector

Mickey Sturhoofd 5 min read