Life changes: Michael Leitz, left, and John Flores made a significant decision to purchase a house in Spain after recognizing the financial challenges of achieving a comfortable retirement in San Francisco.
Good price: The couple bought a three-story stone house for about $48,000 and set to work renovating.Redesigning the space: After finalizing the purchase, they decided to rip out internal walls on the ground floor to create one large, light space. The upstairs would also be reconfigured to produce another bedroom and bathroom.Local help: The couple found a local architect and builder to take on the remodeling work for about $44,000.Good bones: “There were four small rooms and the space felt rather cramped. Also, the ceiling was quite low, so we had the architect look and see if there were any solid beams above. There were, and none of them turned out to be rotten,” says Flores.Open plan: “After the dividing walls were removed, we got one big, airy and sunny room and the ceiling was lifted by 3-4 feet. This made all the difference.”Red tape: Work to renovate the house took about six months, but that followed the considerable time taken to get building permission from local authorities.
The Journey to Home
Consequently, this transformative journey not only reflects a change in living arrangements but also embodies the pursuit of a fulfilling life during retirement. By investing in a property abroad, Leitz and Flores have found not just a home, but a community that inspires creativity and tranquility.
Key Takeaways
Affordable Living: The couple’s choice reflects a growing trend among retirees seeking lower-cost living options.
Custom Home Renovation: Collaborating with local experts allowed them to achieve their vision.
Personal Growth: Their story illustrates the importance of adapting to life changes and embracing new beginnings.
