Introduction

Portugal - the westernmost country in mainland Europe - is one of the most popular countries for Americans to move abroad. And why not? Portugal offers:

  • a Mediterranean climate similar to California
  • several residency options, including the popular D7 and D8 visas
  • Cosmopolitan city life in Lisbon and Porto or Mediterranean beach life in the Algarve
  • the benefits of being in the European Union
  • and a cost of living lower than many parts of the U.S.
Population of around 10 million - about the same as LA County.
One-stop flights from most U.S. cities with major airports in Lisbon, Porto, Faro, and Madeira.
Lisbon is around 40% cheaper to live in than Los Angeles
Offers Digital Nomad & Retirement Visas; time zone is usually 8 hours ahead of Los Angeles.
Lisbon is best for urban dwellers; Porto for wine lovers; and Faro and the Algarve for beach lovers.

A portuguese dream

Nestled on the western edge of Europe, Portugal beckons with its captivating blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the rolling hills of the Douro Valley to the sun-drenched beaches of the Algarve, Portugal offers a diverse tapestry of experiences for every traveler and potential homeowner. Its welcoming atmosphere, coupled with a lower cost of living compared to other Western European nations, has made it an increasingly popular destination for those seeking a new life abroad. Add to this a stable political environment, excellent healthcare, and a safe and secure environment, and it's easy to see why Portugal is topping the list for many looking to invest in real estate.

What makes Portugal special?

Things to Do in Portugal

Portugal is a country that caters to a wide array of interests. History buffs can explore ancient castles and Roman ruins, while foodies can indulge in fresh seafood and world-renowned wines. Lisbon, the vibrant capital, boasts a thriving arts scene, charming neighborhoods, and iconic yellow trams. Porto, in the north, offers a more traditional Portuguese experience, with its port wine cellars and colorful Ribeira district. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Algarve offers golden beaches perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and golfing. Inland, you'll find hiking trails winding through lush forests and rugged mountains. Whether you enjoy exploring bustling cities, relaxing on pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in nature, Portugal has something to offer.

What to Eat in Portugal

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure when you move to Portugal. Portuguese cuisine is a delightful reflection of its rich history and coastal location, emphasizing fresh seafood, flavorful meats, and hearty stews. Be sure to sample bacalhau, salted cod prepared in countless ways, a true national obsession. Indulge in freshly grilled sardines, especially during summer festivals, or savor a bowl of caldo verde, a comforting soup made with potatoes, kale, and chorizo. Don't miss the chance to try cataplana, a seafood stew cooked in a unique copper pot, or the succulent leitão, roasted suckling pig. And of course, no trip to Portugal is complete without indulging in the famous pastéis de nata, creamy custard tarts dusted with cinnamon, best enjoyed warm with a strong coffee. From Michelin-starred restaurants to charming local taverns, Portugal offers a gastronomic journey that will leave you craving more.

Interesting Facts about Portugal

Did you know that Portugal is one of the oldest nations in Europe, with its borders defined in 1139? It was also a global superpower during the Age of Discovery, with a vast empire spanning across continents. Portuguese is the sixth most spoken language globally, spoken by over 250 million people worldwide. The country is also a leader in renewable energy, generating a significant portion of its electricity from wind, solar, and hydro power. And for book lovers, Lisbon is home to the Livraria Bertrand, the oldest operating bookstore in the world, established in 1732. These fascinating facts highlight the unique character and rich heritage that make Portugal such an intriguing place to live and invest.

Portugal's Real Estate Insights

In Portugal, it is very common to specify the number of bedrooms of a property by prefixing it with the letter 'T'. As such, T1 is a one-bedroom property, T2 is a two-bedroom property, and so on... In cities, T1, T2, and T3 properties are very common. However, T4 and T5 are less available and T6 properties are rare.
Number of Bedrooms
Portugal uses the metric system, so properties will be measured in square meter. A rough rule of thumb is to multiply square meters by 11 to get an equivalent size in square feet. For example, a 50 square meter apartment is roughly 550 square feet. Note that apartments in Portugal are smaller than what is common in the United States.
Property Size
Portugal's real estate market has increased significantly in the past 10+ years as Portugal has become very trendy. In the cities, you can find properties cheaper than equivalent in the U.S., but you can also find properties more expensive in the best neighborhoods. The same is true in the Algarve and Madeira as well. Finally, remember that Portugal uses the Euro as its currency, so you'll need to factor in the exchange rate when viewing property prices.
Pricing

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