Live and Invest Abroad Podcast: The how, where and why of global living
Live and Invest Abroad Podcast: The how, where and why of global living
Podcast Description
If you could live anywhere, where would you go? Join us as we explore some of the hottest international destinations for global living and investing. On this podcast, we hear from local real estate experts about the how, where and why of living in their communities. And, we speak to global citizens who made the bold move to sell their stuff and get on a plane in search of a better quality of life in a foreign country. Whether you are dreaming of a tropical retirement, a slower pace of life for your family, or a diversified real estate portfolio, you'll find value here.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on themes such as international real estate investments, relocation logistics, and personal stories from global citizens, with episodes covering topics like moving to Dubai with children, golden visa options for residency, and investment strategies for digital nomads. Specific episodes address the challenges of home renovation in Spain and the steps to leave the U.S. for a new life abroad.
Thinking about moving abroad? You’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out alone, either.
The Solena Global Living Podcast brings you real stories, real estate insights, and the real-life realities of what it takes to move, invest, and thrive overseas.
Hosted by international real estate expert Vanessa Rosenblum, each episode explores the places, people, and practical steps behind global living — from finding the right location and buying property, to navigating culture shock and building a new life abroad.
San Sebastián has long been considered one of Spain's most beautiful places to live, celebrated for its Michelin-starred dining, beautiful beaches, elegant architecture, and exceptional quality of life. But what does it actually take to buy, renovate, and build a life in this highly sought-after Basque city?
In this episode of the Solena Global Living Podcast, I sit down with Berna and Patrick, local real estate experts who specialize in helping international buyers navigate San Sebastián's unique property market. Together, we discuss what makes the city so special, how to approach buying and renovating older homes, and why having the right local team can save you both time and costly mistakes.
You'll also get an inside look at one of their renovation projects, with before-and-after transformations that showcase what's possible when you combine vision with local expertise.
Whether you're searching for a permanent home, a vacation property, or an investment in northern Spain, this conversation offers practical advice and local insights to help you make informed decisions.
Contact Berna & Patrick:
👉 https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/HxRRurcjcTj4pJL2KxP5
Need help choosing the right country or city?
Book a Move Abroad Consultation → https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/move-abroad-consult
Learn about our upcoming scouting trips → https://www.expatsigo.com/scouting-trips/spain/?ref=solenaliving
Want to be matched with a trusted real estate expert abroad?
Complete our Buyer/Renter Matching Questionnaire → https://form.jotform.com/VanessaRosenblum/buyer-matching-questionnaire
About Solena Global Living
Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you're dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live—and invest—with confidence.
👉 Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving
Or visit: https://www.solenagloballiving.com
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:16 Meet Berna & Patrick
02:00 How They Found Their Way to San Sebastián
08:02 Building a Design & Renovation Business
10:35 What International Buyers Should Know Before Renovating
13:02 Budgeting & Hidden Renovation Costs
16:02 Where to Buy Property in San Sebastián
18:02 How Long Does a Renovation Take?
21:01 Common Renovation Challenges in Historic Homes
24:02 Is Renovating Worth the Investment?
24:57 Building the Right Team for Your Project
30:01 The Mindset of an International Buyer
32:00 A Real Before & After Renovation Story
36:00 Why Location Matters for Long-Term Value
37:00 Living in San Sebastián & the Basque Lifestyle
39:02 Should You Learn Spanish or Basque?
40:03 Final Advice for International Buyers
41:01 Closing Thoughts & Next Steps
Disclaimer
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