Client Story
Relocating to Costa del Sol: Architect Couple Finds Their Dream Home & Settlement Support
Philippe Bellande doesn’t just help you move to Spain—he helps you feel at home.
We were not the easiest clients. As two architects with strong opinions and very specific requirements, we knew what we wanted—and needed someone who would take the time to understand it. Philippe Bellande, the owner of Milcham, did exactly that.
Before contacting Philippe in April 2026, we had traveled extensively and narrowed our search to the Costa del Sol, drawn by its weather and lifestyle. But choosing the region was only the beginning. With so many towns, neighborhoods, and properties along the coast, finding the right place was surprisingly confusing.
Our priorities were clear: excellent healthcare, a small-town setting, proximity to a private hospital and a major airport, and a beautiful house with its own architectural identity. We needed separate quarters for our parents and room for our children when they visited. We also wanted a sound investment, with a tourist license that would allow us to rent the property if we chose.
It was a demanding wish list. With Philippe’s help, all of it came together.
We traveled to Spain in July 2026, and he helped us understand the different areas, focus our search, and find a neighborhood that suited the life we wanted. He listened carefully, respected our parameters, and kept looking for better options. We felt that he was personally invested in helping us make the right decision.
His guidance also extended to one of the most important parts of relocating: understanding our residency options. Philippe helped us clarify which routes were worth exploring for our circumstances and connected us with the right professionals for advice tailored to our needs. He also helped us recognize that residency decisions and the timing of a move can have significant tax implications—questions we needed to understand before committing to a plan.
Perhaps most importantly, Philippe helped us set realistic expectations from the beginning. He helped us understand what to consider, which questions to ask, and when to seek specialist advice, giving us a much better chance of getting things right the first time. That preparation was invaluable.
Philippe brings warmth, experience, and a wonderful joie de vivre to his work. Originally from Haiti, like me, and having lived for many years in the United States, he understands what it means to build a life in a new country. He speaks fluent English, French, and Spanish, making communication easy. He clearly enjoys helping people, and that enthusiasm makes even the complicated parts feel more manageable.
Today, we own our home in Spain. We could not have done this without him.
What truly sets Philippe apart is that he is still there for us. His support continued well beyond the purchase—from helping us understand driving requirements and the path to a Spanish driver’s license to recommending markets, finding a veterinarian, and advising us on getting around with our dog.
These everyday details make an enormous difference when you are settling into a new country. Philippe has the contacts, local knowledge, and willingness to help that turn unfamiliar challenges into manageable steps. He keeps looking for solutions because he cares about how things work out for you.
He is your advocate, from the first conversation to the everyday realities of making Spain your home.
If you are considering a move to Spain, we wholeheartedly recommend Philippe and Milcham. We came with high expectations and a very particular vision. He helped us make it happen—and continues to help us feel at home.