Photo: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Make sure the property meets the buyer’s needs Before reviewing listings, identify the buyer’s priorities: number of bedrooms and bathrooms, usable floor area, outdoor space or parking . Needs vary depending on each client’s lifestyle and objectives. In eGO Real Estate , organising property and contact information helps you keep track of the buyer’s preferences and identify suitable options. Consider the location too , checking the proximity of schools, supermarkets, pharmacies and public transport, as well as typical journey times. These factors influence both comfort and how well the property meets the client’s needs. Assess the property’s condition, features and price Before recommending a viewing, check the main aspects of the property that could affect the buyer’s comfort, future costs and purchasing decision: Year of construction and condition : identify any potential renovation or maintenance needs, especially if the client does not want to carry out building work. Accessibility and amenities : check whether there is a lift, assess access conditions and consider other features relevant to the buyer’s needs. Energy performance certificate : check the energy rating, which can help you anticipate energy performance and running costs. Documentation : review the available documentation and identify any details that need to be confirmed with the owner, the agent responsible for the property or the relevant authorities. Price history : where available, check changes to the asking price and how long the property has been on the market. This information can help you prepare a negotiation strategy, although it does not guarantee a price reduction. Comparison with similar properties : assess floor area, condition, features and asking prices of comparable properties in the same area. Market data and property valuation tools can help support your recommendation to the client. Assess the investment potential and prepare your presentation When the aim is to invest, the analysis should go beyond the property’s suitability and purchase price. Estimate the rental value, maintenance costs, taxes and other foreseeable expenses. This information can help you calculate an indicative return and assess whether the investment aligns with the client’s objectives. These estimates should be treated as guidelines, not guaranteed returns. Before presenting your final selection, review the agreed criteria, check the available information and identify any points that need clarification. Organising this information in eGO Real Estate helps you keep track of the buyer’s preferences, maintain a record of your relationship with them and follow up on business opportunities .
Photo: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction EIB to finance the development of municipal land Municipalities will be able to access a new credit facility to fund infrastructure and land development works, making plots available for residential construction. The measure, currently being negotiated by the Government and the European Investment Bank (EIB), aims to accelerate the delivery of new homes by increasing the supply of development-ready land. The Minister for the Economy, Manuel Castro Almeida, announced the initiative during a parliamentary hearing on the 2027 State Budget. According to the minister, the shortage of serviced land remains one of the main obstacles to meeting the countrys housing needs. Loans to be repaid through land sales The funding will allow local authorities to invest in infrastructure and carry out the works needed to make land suitable for construction. Once developed and brought to market, the plots may be purchased by the municipalities themselves or by private developers. Under the proposed model, the proceeds from land sales will be used to repay the loans. The EIBs involvement is expected to provide municipalities with more favourable lending conditions, making it easier to finance the initial investment without relying solely on their own budgets. Government aims to fund 133,000 homes by 2030 The new credit facility is part of a wider strategy to increase housing supply. The Government aims to secure funding for the construction of around 133,000 homes by 2030, based on the needs identified by municipalities in their local housing strategies. Under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), the Government has also increased funding for housing projects. The target is to have around 40,000 homes completed by the end of 2026. 2027 State Budget provides further housing investment The proposed 2027 State Budget includes an investment of €2.003 billion to increase the supply of affordable housing and expand the public housing stock. Priorities include expanding affordable rental housing, bringing vacant properties back into use and simplifying urban planning and building permit procedures. By preparing new land for development and strengthening funding mechanisms, the Government aims to create the conditions needed to accelerate housing projects and address the shortage of supply in the market.
Photo: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction More than €1.4 billion has already been used The State guarantee scheme for young people buying their first home had reached 66.5% of its allocated funding by the end of September. According to data from Banco de Portugal, €1.42 billion had been used since the scheme was introduced to make mortgage finance more accessible to buyers aged up to 35 . By the same date, 48,900 residential mortgage agreements had been signed under the scheme, representing total lending of €10.3 billion. These figures account for 46.6% of the number of mortgages and 49% of the total amount lent to buyers in the same age group for owner-occupied housing. Number of agreements increased in the third quarter Between July and September, 8,700 mortgages backed by the State guarantee were signed, amounting to approximately €2 billion. Compared with the previous quarter, the number of agreements rose by 11.5%, while the total amount borrowed increased by 13.2%. During this period, State-backed mortgages accounted for 54.1% of agreements signed by buyers aged up to 35 and 56% of the total amount borrowed. Across all mortgage lending for owner-occupied housing, the scheme represented 31.6% of agreements and 35.8% of the total amount financed. Uptake varies across regions Take-up of the State guarantee differs significantly between regions. In Alentejo, Beira Baixa, Terras de Trás-os-Montes, Beiras e Serra da Estrela and Lezíria do Tejo, more than 55% of mortgage agreements signed by young buyers benefited from the scheme. In Greater Lisbon and the Autonomous Region of Madeira, the proportion was around 40%. Nevertheless, Greater Lisbon, the Porto Metropolitan Area and the Setúbal Peninsula account for approximately half of all agreements covered by the measure. Scheme could continue in 2027 Introduced in July 2024, the State guarantee allows the Government to guarantee up to 15% of a propertys purchase price, enabling banks to finance between 85% and 100% of the purchase price, up to a maximum of €450,000. The guarantee can remain in place for a maximum of ten years after the mortgage agreement is signed. Initially scheduled to cover agreements signed up to 31 December 2026, the scheme could be extended into next year. The proposed 2027 State Budget points to the continuation of support for young people buying their first home.
Photo: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction RRP boosts public investment in 2026 Investment in public housing is expected to decline significantly in 2027, following a record high in the final year of the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP). According to the forecasts included in the proposed 2027 State Budget, public spending in this sector is expected to fall from €2.905 billion in 2026 to €1.061 billion the following year. The completion of the RRP therefore marks a shift in the trend in investment aimed at building new homes and renovating the public housing stock. European funding has helped increase available resources and accelerate projects designed to expand the supply of public housing. Housing spending remains historically low Government figures show that, in 2025, public investment in new homes and property renovation is expected to have totalled €693 million. This is close to the figures recorded in 2023 and 2024, when spending reached €627.2 million and €666.8 million, respectively. During this period, investment in public housing accounted for around 0.2% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), a proportion that has remained unchanged since 2021. This indicator reflects a trend of low levels of public housing project delivery observed over recent decades. End of RRP funding leads to cuts in 2027 For 2026, the Government expects investment in public housing to reach 0.9% of GDP, the highest level since 1995. However, projections for 2027 point to a sharp decline, with spending accounting for just 0.3% of the countrys economic output. The reduction highlights the impact of the end of RRP funding on housing policy. Following a period of increased resources for housebuilding and renovation, next year is expected to see a decline in public investment in this sector.
Photo: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Unemployment remains stable and below 2025 levels Portugals unemployment rate stood at 5.6% in September, unchanged from August. Figures released by Statistics Portugal (INE) also show a decrease of 0.3 percentage points compared with the same period in 2025, keeping the indicator at its lowest levels since 2002. In total, around 313,000 people were unemployed in the country, 16,300 fewer than a year earlier. Despite the overall stability of the indicator, the figures varied by age group. Among adults, the unemployment rate remained at 4.6% for the third consecutive month, its lowest level since April 2002. Among young people, however, it reached 19.1%, remaining significantly higher than the adult rate. Employment falls compared with August In September, Portugal had approximately 5.3 million people in employment. Although this represented an annual increase of 0.6%, equivalent to around 32,000 people, employment fell by 0.1% compared with August. Statistics Portugal notes that employment has been declining since May, when it reached its highest level since February 1998. This trend has also been accompanied by a fall in the labour force, which decreased by 0.2% compared with August, despite rising by 0.3% compared with September 2025. In total, it comprised around 5.6 million people. Labour underutilisation also falls year-on-year The inactive population approached 2.5 million people, after increasing by 0.6% compared with August and 1.2% year-on-year. Meanwhile, the labour underutilisation rate stood at 9.6% in September, unchanged from the previous month. Nevertheless, this indicator fell by 0.4 percentage points compared with September 2025. Overall, the figures point to a labour market with a stable unemployment rate, but some changes in employment and labour force trends.
Photo: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Discover autumn colours among mountains and vineyards Travelling around Portugal in autumn is an opportunity to discover landscapes transformed by shades of yellow, orange and red, away from the bustle of the summer months. From mountain ranges to wine-growing regions, there are destinations that invite you to go hiking, enjoy moments of tranquillity and discover local cuisine. In Serra da Estrela, the Rota das Faias trail in Manteigas and Covão da Ametade offer the chance to admire the changing colours of the trees and the beauty of the mountain scenery. In the Douro Valley, the vineyards take on warm hues and the region becomes peaceful again after the grape harvest. Staying at a wine estate, with wine tastings and regional cuisine, can make your getaway even more special. Villages and natural parks for a slower pace For those seeking peace and quiet, the Schist Villages in the Lousã and Açor mountain ranges offer a welcoming setting for an autumn getaway. With traditional houses, tree-lined paths and cosy accommodation with fireplaces, visitors can enjoy nature and discover rural life at their own pace. Further north, Peneda-Gerês National Park invites you to explore woodlands, trails and waterfalls. Mata de Albergaria stands out for its centuries-old oak trees, while the Arado and Portela do Homem waterfalls may have a stronger flow at this time of year. It is a destination worth considering for anyone who enjoys hiking and natural landscapes. Chestnuts, traditions and wildlife in Trás-os-Montes and Alentejo Montesinho Natural Park is another option for an autumn getaway in Portugal. The chestnut groves and oak forests take on new colours, while the region’s villages invite visitors to stop and discover the local heritage. Between September and November, you may be lucky enough to witness the red deer rut, a remarkable natural spectacle. Chestnuts are also a key ingredient in Trás-os-Montes cuisine and feature in traditional autumn gatherings. In Alto Alentejo, Marvão combines heritage and scenery. Located in the Serra de São Mamede, the village is known for its chestnut production and its castle, perched at an altitude of around 800 metres. The Chestnut Festival, usually held in November, is another reason to visit and sample the flavours of the season. Whether you want to hike in the mountains, explore historic villages or savour regional produce, autumn offers many ways to discover Portugal and take a break from your daily routine.
Photo: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Decide how to use and organise your garage Before starting any work, it is important to decide on the garage’s main purpose. A workshop needs a sturdy workbench, suitable lighting and space for tools. A home gym requires ventilation, appropriate flooring and enough room to exercise. For storage, shelving, cupboards and vertical storage solutions help make the most of the available space. If the garage will still be used for parking, make sure there is enough room to open car doors, move around and access equipment. If you want to combine several functions, dividing the space into separate zones helps keep everything organised and practical. Check the condition of the space before starting Damp, leaks and cracks should be assessed before painting walls or installing furniture. Stains, salt deposits and peeling paint can indicate underlying problems that need to be addressed. It is also important to check the flooring, drainage and electrical installation. Planned alterations may be subject to specific rules. Improving the lighting or installing cupboards is not the same as converting a garage into a bedroom or office. Before undertaking more extensive work, check with the local council and, where applicable, the property management company or residents’ association to find out whether permission is required or any legal restrictions apply. Choose materials suited to the intended use The flooring should withstand weight, impact and frequent cleaning. In a garage used as a workshop or for parking, a durable, easy-to-clean finish can make maintenance simpler. For a home gym, rubber flooring designed for exercise helps absorb impact and reduce noise, provided it is installed on a suitable base. Shelves, pegboards and bicycle racks can be fitted to the walls to free up floor space. Fixtures must be securely fastened, with heavier items stored on lower levels. Flammable products and toxic substances should be stored appropriately, without blocking electrical panels, ventilation grilles or walkways. Ensure adequate lighting and ventilation A functional garage needs enough light for its intended use. General lighting can be supplemented with task lighting above workbenches, cupboards or exercise areas. A qualified professional should assess the electrical installation, particularly if equipment with higher power requirements will be used. Ventilation also deserves attention, as it helps control damp, odours and heat. If natural ventilation is insufficient, a mechanical extraction system may be needed. Finally, modular storage and fold-away equipment make it easier to adapt the garage to future needs. Careful planning helps make better use of the available space without compromising safety or the garage’s original purpose.
Photo: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Beaches to discover in different settings Zanzibar offers beaches with a variety of atmospheres, from lively spots to quieter retreats. In the north, Nungwi stands out for its fine sand, turquoise waters and range of bars, restaurants and water sports. Nearby, Kendwa offers a more peaceful setting and is known for its sunsets. On the east coast, Paje attracts kitesurfers thanks to its steady winds, while Jambiani maintains a strong connection to traditional fishing. Matemwe is a great option for those seeking long stretches of sand and views of Mnemba Island. Further south, Kizimkazi is known for its dolphin-watching excursions. Nature and traditions by the ocean Beyond its beaches, Zanzibar offers the chance to discover activities that are part of everyday life in local communities. In Pwani Mchangani, seaweed farms highlight the importance of this traditional practice to the islands economy. Guided tours provide a closer look at the work of coastal communities. In Pingwe, the landscape combines palm trees, white sand and turquoise waters. It is also home to The Rock, a restaurant built on a rocky outcrop in the ocean. Access depends on the tide: visitors can walk there when the water recedes or take a boat when the tide rises. The experience combines dining, particularly seafood, with spectacular sea views. Excursions beyond the beaches A trip to Zanzibar can also include boat trips and nature-based activities. From Stone Town, visitors can reach Nakupenda Island, known for its sandbank and clear waters. It is an ideal place for swimming, snorkelling and observing marine life. The time of year is also worth considering. Between June and October, Zanzibar generally experiences its dry season, with favourable conditions for exploring the beaches and enjoying outdoor activities. From November, the short rainy season approaches and usually lasts until December. Although showers are possible, the archipelago still offers plenty of opportunities to discover coastal landscapes, enjoy activities at sea and experience local traditions.
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