W
endy and Marshall Bailey, who live in London's East End, have chosen Marrakesh, Morocco as their retirement destination. For Mr. Bailey, it's the unique combination of architecture, food, and people that makes Marrakesh so appealing. "It's the closest faraway place," he said, noting that a three-and-a-half-hour flight from London is just enough to make it feel foreign. The couple has a long history with Morocco, having visited separately before meeting in Europe.

    Ms. Bailey, a Pittsburgh native, got her start in Europe in 2002 and met Mr. Bailey, a director in financial services, a few years later. They now live in East London with a second home on the Isle of Wight. The Baileys had fallen in love with Marrakesh's medina quarter, with its narrow streets, cafes, and bustling markets. "Where else can you buy a property in a UNESCO World Heritage site that's 1,000 years old?" Ms. Bailey asked.

    The couple began seriously considering making Marrakesh their home after visiting in November 2022. They met with an estate agent, Colin Bosworth, who warned them about the challenges of buying a property in Morocco as a foreigner. Sellers often prefer cash buyers and there's a lot of paperwork involved. Despite these hurdles, the Baileys were determined to find a riad that could serve as both an Airbnb and a vacation home before they retire full-time.

    With a budget ranging from 300,000 to 600,000 euros, they were looking for an open-air riad with original details that needed refurbishment. Among their options were several properties that fit their criteria, but the couple was willing to spend extra money to find the right one.