Since being declared a World Heritage Site just over a decade ago, Porto, also known as Oporto, has seen a sharp increase in direct foreign investment (FDI). A trend which is set to continue.

There have been a lot of articles in the news recently about the status of the property market in the Algarve. Many media reports and estate agency newsletters are quoting large percentage increases in real estate prices, but they are frequently vague about area or type of property. Often statistics are quoted based on the advertised prices on certain local property portals, not the actual sales price.

Different segments of the market are improving at different rates, and while some areas in Portugal (including the Algarve) are seeing increases in sale price and volume of sales, others are not.

A positive vibe all over the international press regarding investment in property and living in Portugal has been reinforced this year, especially in the Western Algarve. In general, buyers and sellers alike are extremely happy due to the amount of closed deals that actually surpasses the amazing figures achieved in 2005.
The fact that Casas do Barlavento has a “One Stop Shop” approach really has taken its toll on the property portfolio. This is a very popular approach where the client has an all-in-one solution; therefore the client doesn’t need to go anywhere else and doesn’t have to contact different companies.

The area has been a hive of activity. The buzz in the property market this summer was exciting. Numbers are up and not only in numbers of visitors to the area, but also in the amount of property sales! We have had our best year ever, and sales have already exceeded €110 million so far.

Situated on a generous plot of 12,000m2, we're excited to present this scintillating contemporary property affording amazing panoramic views.

This new residence was constructed to some of the highest standards available and it's design maximises it's elevated position to bring light flooding into the property through large picture windows and an internal glass atrium centrepiece.

Social media has had a significant impact on everything from the way we socialise to the way we meet potential partners. There are over 2 billion social media users worldwide. Now, there's growing evidence showing that social media is affecting the way we look for and buy property.

90% of homebuyers search for property online, with 52% using the web as their first step (Nar Realtor). For new home shoppers, 36% report using a mobile device while watching TV. With so many people shopping for property online, social media has become a major lead generator. Buyers are increasingly using it to find their homes.

The latest on living in harmony with nature and the Green Man Hotel project, PLUS an exclusive offer for Algarve Daily News readers.

You may have been thinking about buying a property in Portugal for a while now. We understand that it is a big step, regardless if it's your new primary residency, a second (holiday) home or an investment property. Investing your money into a different country can seem intimidating, and we are here to help you. 
We have created this guide to provide you with all the information you need to know about the buying process and the buying costs.

CLICK HERE to download our free guide.