Jo is no slickly suited snake oil salesman. His home is here, as is his family; he speaks Bulgarian and he’s living, not selling an alternative life in a country he loves. He’s bought and renovated houses and his knowledge, contacts and support are invaluable to anyone looking to step into a world that can seem bewilderingly different from the one they’re used to. I doubt Jo gives much thought to his USP as a businessman but that’s because it’s the evident integrity, good humour and charm that he and his partner Jess exude. These are good people, investing in a community they love. Buying a house from Jo comes with an invitation to step into the generosity of this vision, and participate in a world they cherish. Sitting on the veranda of our new house, looking out over the village, I realise the privilege of doing so, and we are grateful to Jo and Jess for enabling it to happen.
Rupert Crisswell
Cannot recommend these guys enough, what a tough year it’s been. But however tough it’s been despite all the restrictions due to covid, Joe and Jess still found a way to secure my dream home in stunning Bulgaria. If you’re looking to buy in BG I highly recommend using these guys, they’ve done all the hard graft themselves so you don’t have to! If you’re thinking about it, just do it. You won’t regret it. Find yourself a Beautiful home surrounded by fields, mountains and forestry for the price of a 2nd hand car! Turn your dream into a reality, there’s nothing quite like sipping a nice glass of home made wine sitting in your garden staring into the Bulgarian valleys and wilderness. Thanks Joe and Jess for everything, you guys are awesome.
Chaz Hodge
Joe & Jess are a lovely couple that know quite a lot about the local areas & couldnt be more helpful we where made to feel very welcome and viewed quite a few of the properties it was really helpful that Joe can speak fluent Bulgarian and translated any Bulgarian owners information and we hope to be out again soon for some second viewings. Thanks guys will be in touch.
Glen Livi
We recently bought a property there, and found the whole process fairly straightforward, and Joe and Jess are so helpful. We are so pleased to have found them. Know like many others, we had heard so many horror stories about buying a property in Bulgaria, but these worries soon went after meeting Joe & Jess. They took us to see many properties that they thought would tick the boxes on our wish list, and gave us a lot to think about. We came back to the UK to think about things ( there is NO pushy hard sell with these guys ) and decided on which one we wanted. To anyone thinking of buying in Bulgaria, all I can say is that we love it there. We went over for a few days with an open mind, but soon fell for its old-time charm, and relaxing lifestyle. What started off as an investment/holiday home, may even become a permanent home ! Will be flying over again this month, to arrange for builders to start work on our place. Just want to say a massive thank you Joe and Jess.
Patrick Chapman
We were interested in finding a property in Bulgaria as we'd heard great things but we didn't know where to start. We came across Joe and Jess on a Facebook page and got in contact - not really expecting anything to come of it. However, they answered all of our questions and we realised the best thing to do would be to go to south-eastern Bulgaria and have a look at some properties. Joe and Jess took us under their wing and spent full days with us - showing us properties, taking us to local cafes, explaining the culture, and lots more. We fell in love with a property and made an offer very quickly. We met a fantastic solictor and were introduced to a local notary before we had to return home. As we had no contacts in Bulgaria and couldn't get back immediately, we left the sale and legal matters with Joe and Jess. This was a real leap of faith but it felt right. We were justified in our trust and the service we received was exemplary - most of this happening over Xmas. We didn't have to worry about anything. We returned in January to collect deeds, keys, etc. and Joe and Jess treated us like old friends - taking us around to local places and helping us sort out security and services. We've only known Joe and Jess since November but we know they are absolutley trustworthy - the service they provide is incredible. It also helps that they are warm, compassionate people and won't hesitate to help. If you want to find a new home/life/adventure in Bulgaria, please get in touch with these guys!
JP Dunin & Donna Meenan
Joe showed me around various properties and did the leg work for several inquiries. Much of the research I did before heading to Bulgaria was full of doubt due to the way people conduct themselves in facebook forums, I lacked confidence and delayed my trip several times over what Id learned from other expats who blindly and for some reason were extremely bitter about helping me be successful. In the end, it was Joe who convinced me to come out and see him, to check out Svilengrad. Joe is extremely approachable, friendly and very interested in my success, which is to find value and property. His understanding is extremely realistic and what I loved most was his vision and understanding of what I wanted to accomplish. I never bought anything but Joe still sends me updates and properties that he knows I will be interested in. If you made it to this review and recommendation its because you were like me, looking for answers. I can assure you that you won't be disappointed with your trip, I've traveled the world for 23 years and hope to end up in the area Joe manages.
Wesley Yates
I can't recommend, or praise them highly enough. It was such a blessing to cross paths on FB and I'm so glad I followed my instincts and bought my 1st home just weeks later, after being shown round a variety of potential properties. I couldn't imagine a more positive experience. Joe and Jess are beautiful people, and spread good vibes wherever they go. At the same time very professional and 100% trustworthy and ALTERNATIVE!
Sandra Jamieson
I can't thank Joe and Jess enough. They found my dream home and organized everything for me. They are honest, trustworthy and lovely folk. I'm so fortunate to know them. Am looking forward to my new life in this beautiful country and its all down to them. Thank you so much.
Jane Artuch
I cannot recommend Alternative Living Bulgaria highly enough. I travelled over in November to view some of the properties they had in their portfolio. They could not have been more friendly and helpful; never put any pressure on me everything conducted in a relaxed and open manner. When I decided to put in an offer, they introduced me to a solicitor who arranged a proxy and notary and the house purchase was arranged in a speedy and satisfactory manner. If you are thinking of buying in Bulgaria but are concerned about the language barrier, navigating regulations and all the incidentals that come with such a major purchase get in touch with them. You won't be disappointed.
Gerry Lafferty
Joe and Jess offer the full package from choosing carefully which property might suit you, to putting you in touch with a solicitor and sharing their knowledge of the country and culture with you. Not only are they extremely nice people, they are very much liked by the locals. Can highly recommend!
Susan Ploetz
Myself and my husband recently made a decision after 16 years of living in Dubai to relocate to Bulgaria. A friend of ours recommended us to contact Joe & Jess at Alternative Living. Joe and Jess were very welcoming and knowledgeable about the area they are living in and put together a portfolio of 6 properties for us to visit at very short notice. Although we have not gone ahead as yet to buy and are still looking, they have continued to stay in contact and are keeping us updated with any new properties they have. All in all excellent service and would highly recommend Joe & Jess to anyone considering buying property in their region.
Suze Crane
I had the pleasure of meeting and spend time with Jess and Joe while I was looking at properties in Bulgaria. They went out of their way to assist me in every way and I give them a 5/5. Two wonderful people who I would highly recommend.
Brigitte Alex