Take your time, Andalucia buyers advised

Those thinking of buying property in rural parts of inland Spain such as Andalucia should spend time in the area they wish to purchase in and understand that water supplies are more important than location, it has been stated.

Such advice comes from UK author Chris Stewart, who has lived in the region since 1988 and written three books based on life and culture there, the Times reports.

He said: "Stay in the area for a year before you buy. Live through all the seasons, get to know the people and get to know about water."

Mr Stewart commented that living in the "savage terrain" of inland Spain offered a very different experience for ex-pats to the seaside of the Costas.

Many Britons are opting to take exactly this option when moving to Spain in preference to the coastal areas, PR manager at tourist lettings firm Holiday-Rentals Sarah Chambers noted recently.

She said those who did so were able to experience an "authentic" Spanish lifestyle in Andalucia.