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Just moved back to Hungary after 3.5 years living in Gandia, near Valencia. Some years back, over 7 years in Barcelona.
Several points:
If you are young, then choose a city, as the provinces are just that... provincial.
Rent, as prices still have a long way to fall.
When you do buy, only go for "urbanized", other wise the local government will charge you for installing things like pavements and street lighting. As V4 Media says, check property legality, and then check again. For example, any changes made to the property ie swimming pool or extension added without proper planning permission will only come to light after you have bought...and you will be obliged to pay a fine and/or knock it down.
Do not buy/rent any where with "shared" facilities (like a swimming pool for all the residents) as in these hard times they will not contribute to the upkeep costs (Spanish peeps have a lot of face)...and you will have to pay their share or watch said facilities fall into disrepair.
Get a bike!
Speak Spanish and/or learn (your life will be much fuller).
Over 180 days residence means that you pay tax on your world-wide income.
Stay well away from sad old expats (with the fall of the UK £ vs Euro they are struggling and become a bit bitter). They do not integrate and still believe everything they read in the Daily Mail.
Fantastic weather, food and sea. Peeps are mad, emotional, loud and tell it as it is. Seize the day and get your lardy arse over there.
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