MICHAEL AND MAIREAD - SPAIN

Carlow couple, Michael and Mairead Dayton are regular visitors to Peurto banus on Spain's Costa del Sol and they know what they're looking for and how much they want to spend - a one bed apartment, near the port, for €200,000 tops.

However, Michael and Mairead decide to do a bit of sightseeing for some fun and head off towards Marbella and a golf property with plenty of space, a nice pool, gorgeous roof terrace and an eye-popping price tag of €800,000. It's undoubtedly a fantastic house, but the only way they could afford it would be as part of a consortium, which they are not really interested in.

Marbella is one of the most popular resorts on the Costa del Sol. It has a beautiful climate and despite it's popularity it has retained its charm. At the heart of the old quarter is the charming Plaza de los Naranjos or Orange Square with numerous restaurants and narrow streets leading in all directions. Near Marbella, we view a 3 bedroom property which is well within Michael and Mairead's budget at only €138,000. It's also close to the beach. But it doesn't have any air conditioning which is a problem in this climate. It also is not near the beach in Peurto Banus and that's where Michael and Mairead want to be!

Costa del Sol is also known as the Costa del Golf - there are courses everywhere. So even if you can't afford a property on a golf course, you're never likely to be far from one. The next visit takes us right into the heart of Golf Valley, near Peurto Banus and a large bright 1 bedroom apartment for €159,000. It has a communal pool and a good sized terrace. This apartment has a lot to offer, but Michael and Mairead aren't golfers and they would prefer to be closer to the port. Mairead does love it so they are looking at it as a possibilty.

Next week, we'll see how they get on.