We’re Sean (Westlake) and Ian (Powell), a fun-loving, adventure-seeking, long-time couple in our 50s. After 28 years together, three children, and eight grandchildren, we decided it was time to shake things up.
We wanted our favourite holiday destination, Gran Canaria to become something much bigger: a new home, a new business venture, and a new way of life!
Before Laura entered the picture, we were living and working in the UK, running Eat That Frog C.I.C. ( www.eatthatfrog.ac.uk ), a social enterprise that supports young people with special educational needs and helps job seekers in Devon. While we loved our work, our hearts were set on Gran Canaria, where we had vacationed for over 20 years. The goal was simple: find a holiday home that could eventually become a full-time residence.
We had our wish list, our ideal location, and a plan. What we didn’t have? The right house, or the expertise to navigate the Spanish property market.
Enter Laura, the Game-Changer. Laura took our dream and turned it into a real, practical plan. She found properties that fit our criteria (and some that pushed our budget, just to show us what was possible). We toured three homes, which helped us refine what truly mattered.
Spanish homes can have multiple habitable rooms with no windows! Not something you think about when house-hunting in the UK, right?
With Laura’s guidance, we made an offer on a house, but after a long wait, the seller turned it down. At the time, we were disappointed. Looking back? It was the best thing that could’ve happened.
The Unexpected Twist: A Pandemic & A New Perspective
That rejected offer? A total blessing in disguise. Just weeks later, COVID hit, and Spain’s lockdowns were far stricter than the UK’s. Suddenly, priorities changed—outdoor space and a private pool became must-haves.
The pandemic made us rethink everything. Instead of just a holiday home, we decided to go all in—sell our UK house, embrace remote work, and rent a place in Gran Canaria full-time. By November 2020, we had signed a five-year lease on a charming two-bed bungalow with a terrace, private parking, and, yes—a private pool!
A Bigger Mission: Turning Our Dream into Opportunity for Others
Through Eat That Frog S.L. ( www. eatthatfrog.es ), we expanded our UK business to Spain. One of our biggest projects, Turing, brings UK students with special needs to Gran Canaria, helping them build confidence, gain work experience, and develop life skills.
The problem? There was nowhere suitable for them to stay, no home-like accommodation where they could cook, share space, and truly live the experience.
The solution? Instead of buying a home for ourselves, we bought a seven-bedroom villa with a private pool near the airport, just for our students.
Where Are We Now?
We still love our cozy rental bungalow in Playa Del Inglés, it’s central, lively, and perfect for enjoying the island.
Back in the UK, we bought a small bungalow in Torquay (right opposite the first house we ever owned together, talk about full circle!).
And our student villa in Gran Canaria? It’s thriving, helping young people gain independence and new skills that change their lives.
We are now living our best lives between Gran Canaria and the UK, and in November 2025, we’ll officially become permanent Spanish residents.
As we start thinking about retirement (a long way off, but still!), we’re planning for the next chapter: maybe a small home in southern Gran Canaria. With house prices soaring thanks to international buyers, it’s a challenge, but if we’ve learned anything, it’s that the right home always finds you.
Thinking of Working with Laura? Here’s Our Advice…
Don’t just tell her what you want, tell her why.
Laura doesn’t just find houses; she challenges you to think deeper about your goals, your lifestyle, and what truly matters. She’s a wealth of knowledge, always there to support you long after your first house hunt.
Buying in Spain isn’t just about picking a home, it’s about navigating residency, healthcare, taxes, and a whole new way of life. Having someone like Laura to guide you? Absolutely priceless.
If you’re ready to take the leap, talk to Laura. It might just be the best decision you ever make.
Sean & Ian
