In our 3rd week of lockdown, but life goes on! This photo was taken at around midday on April 3rd, with glorious sunshine and the temperature in the early 20’s C. But of course, Carvoeiro beach is empty and this is not only because there are no tourists in the Algarve at the moment. Part of the latest lockdown measures mean that access to beaches, boardwalks and other places that attract public gatherings is strictly prohibited.
So not even local residents can enjoy the beach at the moment. Otherwise, our restrictions are broadly similar to most other European countries but not quite as stringent as in neighbouring Spain. At least we are allowed to go out together and walk our dogs so we can still enjoy the wonderful nature and great climate. The main change, when the lockdown was extended for another two weeks from Wednesday this week, is that Easter in the Algarve is totally off limits to all visitors and even locals will not be allowed to travel outside of their own council area (without a reason) from April 9th to 13th. See the latest update here.
Market Update
This is a tough time for property professionals all over the world, the holiday rental market is in meltdown as tourists are unable to travel and estate agents with offices closed, are generally restricted to virtual viewings. But we are still all working hard from home and despite the many limitations we now face, the market is still moving. Perhaps most importantly, our March marketing report revealed that sales enquiries from potential buyers around the world were considerably higher than in February and actually on a par with January, which is always our busiest month for enquiries.
The fact is that people may be stuck at home but if they were planning on buying a home in the Algarve before this crises, they have more time on their hands right now than ever before to search online. Fully expecting this, we decided not make any changes to our marketing activities, ensuring that our brand and our properties remain as visible as ever to our potential buyers. Our planned spring exhibitions in London, Dublin, Paris and Hong Kong may have all been postponed, but we are looking forward to a busy schedule of international seminars and exhibitions later in the year. And finally, we are pleased to say that deals are still being done, albeit with some difficulties in view of limited access to lawyers and public notaries.
Here at Fine & Country Algarve we are staying positive and looking forward to being busier than ever as soon as life returns to normal.
VIEW over 900 properties for sale HERE.
Central & West Algarve (Praia do Carvoeiro): Tel. 282 354 140
Central Algarve & Golden Triangle (Almancil): 289 396 096
East Algarve (Tavira): Tel 281 023 263
