Featured Articles
Moving to Comporta: Portugal’s up-and-coming beach destination
Described by Conde Nast, the publication house behind Vogue and Tatler, as “Portugal’s best secret beach spot”, Comporta has attracted a considerable celebrity following in recent years. Madonna, Christian Louboutin, George Clooney and Cindy Crawford are just some of the big names that have become associated with Comporta. So what is this mysterious location?Read more...
Building a swimming pool in Portugal
Found the perfect property in Portugal but it lacks a certain something? Like a swimming pool? Don’t worry, if you have the space and the planning permission, installing a swimming pool in your home in Portugal isn’t too difficult. Here is what you need to do.Read more...
News update: Overseas buyers buying more – and budgets are up
The secret seems to be out about Portugal: the latest stats show the number of overseas buyers continues to grow, and they’re generally willing to spend a lot more than locals on their dream home. A move abroad’s the perfect time for a new start, and one Brit is making headlines with a rewilding project near the Serra da Estrela.Read more...
We swapped a career in the UK for an art studio in Portugal
When Dave and Aly Sheldrake retired from their busy UK careers, the last thing they were looking for was a quiet retirement – so they swapped the UK for a new adventure in the western Algarve, pursuing their dreams as a photographer and artist. Eight years on, they know it was the right decision, saying they’ve ‘never felt happier or more relaxed about life’.Read more...
Building your own, part 3: finding a builder
If you’re building your own home in Portugal (or planning to), it’s likely you already know that it’s a complex process. By the time you’ve found the land, drawn up the plans and obtained the necessary permissions, you’re halfway through the prep. But once all that’s done, you need to get started on the next stage: finding a builder in Portugal.Read more...
Building your home in Portugal, part 2: architects and planning permission
Once you’ve found your perfect plot of land to build your dream home on – with a sea view, or in the heart of the Alentejo countryside, perhaps – then it’s time to turn your thoughts to how you want that home to look. And, to put that down on paper and into a viable plan, you’ll need an architect.Read more...
New rules come in around Airbnb rentals
Many European cities are struggling to contain the rise of Airbnb-style rentals. Their proliferation leaves local residents complaining of a lack of affordable homes. In a move that could have an impact on Airbnb in Portugal, Porto’s city council has decided to temporarily stop issuing licenses for new short-term rental properties in certain areas.Read more...
Build your own home, part 1: buying land
If you’ve spent any length of time browsing property listings in Portugal, you’ve probably noticed a wide selection of land for sale. Large plots of land, often with one or more ruins for renovation, are easy to find. Sometimes the prices seem incredibly tempting too. So, is buying land in Portugal and building a house to your dream specification a good option? This article explores the practicalities.Read more...
The 10 Best Contacts for Expats in Portugal
New expats in Portugal really benefit from having a strong support network, This article discusses the key people to get in touch with to make your move easier: the ten best new friends when you move to Portugal.Read more...
News update: buyers take next steps to finding their dream property at Your Overseas Home
It’s been a busy week for me, as I swapped the sunny skies of the Algarve for the more inclement climes of Chester to help Portugal Property Guides readers take the next step to buying their dream property at Your Overseas Home. Meanwhile, summer festival season is in full swing and Portuguese sardines are finally back on the menu!Read more...
News update: Tax breaks for renovations as tech industry boosts property market
Portugal has generous financial incentives for overseas buyers, and now you can add 0% municipal taxes around Albufeira for anyone renovating. Hyatt is entering Portugal with a €70 million investment, in a strong sign of confidence for tourism growth. The property market’s busy, too, with huge regeneration schemes in Almada and Olhão kicking off.Read more...
