With its warm climate, natural beauty and irresistible mix of old-world charm and modern convenience, Portugal has always been a top destination for travel. In recent years, however, it has also emerged as one of the world’s hottest real estate markets, captivating international buyers and investors with its social stability, economic incentives and access to Europe.
The small country on the westernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula also captivated The Agency, becoming a strategic priority for our expansion plans. Earlier this year, we opened our second European office in Lisbon, led by visionary Managing Partner Ayres Neto.
Renowned for his industry and market expertise, Ayres has built an impeccable reputation helping discerning clientele navigate the intricacies of buying and investing abroad. He now mentors a multicultural team of more than 12 nationalities who speak 13 different languages and manage a diverse portfolio of properties across the country. In addition to his ambitions for the business, Ayres is driven by a deep-rooted love of Portugal and desire to share it with buyers and investors from around the world.
“Portugal is a gateway to Europe,” Ayres proclaims. While geographically the country’s size and location on the Iberian Peninsula make it an excellent entry point to the continent, it’s the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program that really opens doors to Europe and its distinctive, high-quality way of life.
What is The Golden Visa Program?
The Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program—better known as the Golden Visa program—is an initiative that allows non-EU nationals the opportunity to obtain residency by investing in Portuguese real estate and eventually provides a pathway to citizenship. Because Portugal is a full member of the EU, participants in the program can travel freely between the other 26 European countries within the Schengen Area.
Participants also gain the right to live, work, and study in the country, opening up exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth. Given the country’s stable economic outlook and top-tier private and public education — including universities and international schools — it’s no wonder that young professionals and families have flocked to take advantage of the program.
Once there, participants often find they have no intention of going back, charmed by the welcoming and English-proficient locals, mild weather and delicious food and wine culture. Portugal is also regularly rated among the safest countries in the world and lauded for its excellent healthcare system. “Portugal is such an incredible place to live,” Ayres insists.
For investors, high net worth individuals and retirees who don’t necessarily want to relocate permanently, the Golden Visa program is equally alluring, as it only requires an average stay of seven days per year in Portugal over a five-year period to qualify. Moreover, Portugal’s non-habitual tax resident status presents a compelling financial incentive, allowing eligible applicants who fulfill government requirements to enjoy reduced tax rates on income and capital gains for a duration of 10 years.
The Agency Portugal specializes in guiding clients not only through the nuances of each city and property, but also through the Golden Visa program, providing comprehensive support throughout the application process. After all, Portugal’s allure is not in the extra paperwork but in the cobbled streets and contemporary penthouses of Lisbon, the enchanting vineyards of Alto Douro, the charming beach towns of Setúbal and hidden in some of the country’s latest luxury developments.
Local Portugal Listings
From urban apartments to rent, luxury villas to call home and land to develop, Portugal promises the perfect opportunity for every type of investor. Here’s a look at some of our latest listings throughout the region.
Rua Villa Marinha, Cascais
This luxurious villa checks all the boxes for even the most discerning buyer. Featuring six ensuite bedrooms across three levels, this elegant property makes the most of Portugal’s temperate Mediterranean climate with an open layout that inspires effortless indoor-outdoor living. Designed to the most exacting standards, the villa has been outfitted with the finest finishes, top-grade appliances and technology, and every amenity imaginable, including a home cinema, gym, sauna, infinity pool, four-car garage, office and multiple elevators. Plus, the property is only a short distance to the nearby equestrian club, health club, beach and some of the best international schools.
Vale Martim Afonso do Sul
Looking to build a new life abroad? Why not build a new dream home? Set in one of the most sought-after areas, this 20-acre property is just a short drive from some of Portugal’s best beaches and features a cabin where residents can live comfortably and oversee the construction of their future, which isn’t so far off— the entire water and electrical infrastructure has already been implemented.
Penthouse in Av. Liberdade, Lisbon
This penthouse offers luxurious comfort, refinement and tranquility in the center of a bustling European capital. Located in Lisbon’s Santo Antonio district near some of the city’s best shopping and surrounded by lush gardens, the residence showcases stunning panoramic views of Lisbon’s historic center from all 24 of its terraces. The spacious living and dining areas set the stage for effortless entertaining, while three private suites in addition to a primary make it easy to host any international guests. (Rest assured, everyone back home will be trying to get an invitation.) The building also boasts concierge service, an indoor pool, spa and gym.
Penthouse in Estrela
The chic interiors of this penthouse are enough to wow, but the real wow factor is the rooftop terrace. Complete with a barbeque, outdoor kitchen and jacuzzi, it offers phenomenal views of the river. The building adds another layer of luxury, offering residents access to a garden, pool, spa, gym and around-the-clock concierge. Outside, the neighborhood teems with trendy coffee shops and a vibrant community of young families, professionals and expatriates.
5 Rua Das Quebradas
Part of an elite and incredibly secure lifestyle community that includes residential, hospitality, and wellness offerings, this exquisitely designed and supremely private villa epitomizes quiet luxury. This particular residence stands apart from the rest for its unobstructed ocean views — the beach being a mere 500 meters from the front door.
Porto
An investor’s dream opportunity, this 11-apartment property resides in Portugal’s second largest city and is supported by a restaurant and two bars, making it an ideal development for tourists and business travelers. Each of the furnished apartments provides guests with all the necessary amenities, including a kitchenette and private bathroom. Some even have the added benefit of an outdoor space. The central location offers easy access to Porto’s nightlife and renowned restaurants that showcase the best of Portuguese gastronomy and the region’s freshest ingredients.
T2 “Mentiras” in Porto
Bathed in natural light and overlooking the Douro River, this two-bedroom apartment resides in a lovingly restored building encircled by Porto’s most emblematic landmarks, such as the Clérigos Tower, Livraria Lello, Palácio da Bolsa, and the Cathedral. Spacious and serene, the living room leads out to a balcony with panoramic views stretching from the historic Fernandina wall to the picturesque Ribeira, with the majestic D. Luís I Bridge taking center stage. With accommodations for up to 6 people, the property also includes an AL License so that it can legally operate as a short-term rental.
Casa de Pena d’Águia
Nestled in the heart of the UNESCO-classified Alto Douro wine region, this modern farmhouse is surrounded by a timeless Portuguese landscape of picturesque mountains, terraced vineyards, olive groves and a meandering river. With such stunning views — not to mention the three beautiful suites, modern kitchen, laundry room and infinity-edge pool — residents may never want to leave. But when they do, they’ll likely have no problem renting the property out.
For more information on these and other listings, please visit TheAgencyRE.com/region/portugal.
