Gemma Atkinson has admitted she was 'naïve' about the complexities of buying a holiday home in Spain, revealing a clash with fiancé Gorka Márquez over the pace of their property search. The couple, who met on Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, recently traveled to Gorka's native Spain to view potential homes.
House Hunting in Spain
Speaking on their podcast Lost In Translation, Gemma, 41, reflected on their two-night trip: 'We had a lovely time, it was just two nights, the two of us. We did loads and loads of walking, we did some house hunting, we're hoping to get a holiday home, that's the aim, but we've put that on the back burner for a bit.'
She added: 'We've realised it's going to take a lot more [work], I naively thought it's the same as the UK, you go over, you buy it, stamp duty, done. There's a big process.'
Clashing Approaches
Gorka, a professional dancer, pointed out that buying property abroad involves different rules. He joked that Gemma went from 'zero to hundred' almost immediately, sharing: 'You go, "let's get a house abroad, let's go." Like I was in New York and in the three days that I was there, she booked flights, she organised viewings, she organised this, no idea where to go and then I find out I'm going to Spain. And then she goes, "Oh yeah, this one."'
Gemma acknowledged she was more eager, while Gorka was 'the opposite'. He suggested they return to Spain with their children, Mia and Thiago, to explore more areas before deciding, saying: 'Because this life is forever.' Gemma countered that buying sooner would allow them to start investing earlier, adding: 'I just love the lifestyle over there.'
Feeling the Right Home
Earlier, Gemma revealed on Instagram what would help her decide: 'We've been back and forth with estate agents. I need to spend time there though, not just a viewing online. Sounds silly but I have to 'feel' like it's a 2nd home. I told Gorka I'll know when I walk in as I'll get the feeling. He just nodded and agreed.'
Wedding Plans
The couple, engaged since Valentine's Day 2021, are also frequently asked about wedding plans. Gemma previously said: 'None of us want a big fuss or lots of guests so we may just go and do it with just family and come back and have a huge party! I've never wanted a big white wedding. More than happy with a lovely small one. We feel married anyway.'
