General Information

As a fellow septuagenarian my strong advice is don’t!

Having spent 17 years in Spain before selling up late last year I believe I’m qualified to make this suggestion.

Public transport isn’t brilliant in Spain so how will you do your shopping, banking etc? Will you find a property close to a hospital, doctor or dentist? There’s such a lot to consider when buying in Spain (or anywhere else for that matter) when you are getting older.

I would suggest renting. Find a couple of places available on short term rental and spend a few weeks there a couple of times a year.

We loved the area we had our place (an hour from Alcacares) so we found a nice apartment which we rent for 4/5 weeks twice a year. We go April/May and Sept/Oct when the weather isn’t so hot and have a great time. No maintenance, no worries about bills etc and no worries about our place being secure.

Much more relaxing and enjoyable whilst we still meet up with friends and enjoy meals out etc.

I would suggest that you visit the area(s) where you would like to be. I (70-ish) love it. Public transport is bad, you will need a car just for going groceries shopping, not to mention IF you need to go to the GP or what ever.......

“Quiet” & “Amenities” (is a contradiction in my opinion) …..it’s a personal choice but again without a car is tricky. OK, an alternative is Taxis (which is also not too easy to get) or a “Consultant” who will drive you around. (I know one who offers this service, but it's not cheap)  If you know the language it’s OK, but the “Consultant” (Gestor) you will need because the sign at the (i.e.) GP says: Please bring a translator with you!!! Also for the paperwork involved going through the buying process…..

The area(s) Santiago de Ribera or Los Alcazares are not hilly at all: Look it up on google maps/Satellite images.......

Area is prone to flooding when there is a gota fria. This last happened in September 2019

I'm 70 and my wife is older but we love our time in LA. We purchased 8 years ago in Los Narejos and still love coming  although Brexit has restricted the time we can spend here. 

I completely agree with the other comments about the need for a car as buses are not good and taxis are not cheap... I also agree about considering renting but don't write the area off. 

LA is flat, so perfect for cycling and walking. There are all the amenities you need and our property has 4 supermarkets within touching distance and bars, restaurants and banks less than a 5 minute walk. We do have a car as we like to travel around but that's a personal choice.