Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The process of implementing the Land Registry System in Portugal has been more complex than expected, with the supporting technological platform still not fully operational. This delay has caused serious disruptions to the real estate market, particularly in the municipalities of Loulé , Oliveira do Hospital , Paredes , Penafiel , São Brás de Alportel , Seia , and Tavira . In these areas, citizens and businesses are unable to carry out property transactions, such as buying and selling properties, due to the requirement that buildings must be properly registered in the National Cadastral Information System (SNIC), accessible through the Single Property Desk (BUPi). The legal framework for land registration, established by Decree-Law No. 72/2023, stipulates that only registered properties can be the subject of legal transactions. However, the inability to carry out these operations in several regions has blocked transactions that rely on the cadastral system to ensure the legality and legal security of business dealings. To mitigate the negative impacts of this situation, the government has decided to delay the enforcement of the new rules until January 1st, 2025, allowing real estate transactions in these seven municipalities to be carried out without the immediate need for land registration. The recent revision of the Land Law, which now permits construction on rural land, may directly affect this scenario. With the possibility of using these lands for urban purposes, interest in buying and selling rural properties is growing, which could lead to an increase in their value . However, the need to regularise these properties through land registration becomes even more urgent, as transactions will only be valid once the registration in the SNIC is formalised. This factor may hinder the immediate completion of transactions, affecting the speed with which owners can take advantage of the new legislation. The postponement of the Land Registration requirement until 2025 serves as a temporary solution to ensure that legal transactions can continue to be carried out, while allowing time for the full implementation of the technological platform that will support the SNIC. This measure aims to ensure that the real estate market is not harmed by the lack of access to land registration, which is essential for carrying out legal transactions and fulfilling the fiscal and administrative obligations related to properties. The implementation of Land Registration is a priority for the modernisation of territorial management in Portugal, but technological and operational challenges must be overcome for the system to function properly. The governments decision to delay the application of the new rules until 2025 is a strategic measure aimed at ensuring the stability of the real estate market and protecting the interests of citizens and businesses while the land registration system is still under development.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The cost of new housing construction increased by 4.2% in October compared to the same month the previous year, showing an acceleration compared to the data from September. This growth was mainly driven by a significant increase in labor costs, while material prices continued to show a slight decrease. Evolution of construction costs The 4.2% increase in October represents an acceleration compared to the year-on-year growth of 3.3% recorded in September. This data reflects a trend of rising construction costs, which have been pressured by various economic and social factors. Labor costs, which play a significant role in the overall calculation, increased by 9.7% in October, a considerable rise compared to the 8.4% recorded in September. This increase reflects wage pressures in the construction sector, driven by a shortage of skilled workers and the need to adjust salaries to current economic conditions. On the other hand, the prices of materials used in construction saw a slight decrease of 0.1% in October, following the trend already observed in September when they dropped by 0.7%. This marginal reduction reflects a stabilization in the prices of raw materials such as steel and cement, after a period of intense fluctuations in global markets. Factors influencing the increase in costs The costs of new housing construction are determined by a combination of factors, including material prices, wages in the sector, and operating expenses. In the case of labor, the sector has faced challenges related to the shortage of skilled workers, leading to wage increases to attract and retain professionals. This phenomenon is particularly visible in regions with higher housing demand, where the accelerated pace of new constructions requires reinforcement of teams. Regarding materials, the price decrease observed in recent months is partly due to stabilization in supply chains after the negative impacts of the pandemic and the war in Ukraine. However, prices remain high compared to levels before 2020, reflecting the overall rise in transportation and production costs. Impact on the housing sector The increase in construction costs has significant repercussions on the housing market, directly influencing house prices. In many cases, additional costs are passed on to consumers, contributing to rising sale prices and making it more difficult to access housing, especially for middle and low-income families. This situation has led to a slowdown in the pace of construction in some regions, where developers profit margins are affected by the combination of high costs and limitations on increasing sale prices. Additionally, the rise in costs also impacts affordable housing programs, which rely on controlled budgets. In this context, it is essential for governments and urban planning authorities to find ways to mitigate the effects of rising costs, promoting solutions that allow the continuation of affordable housing construction. Future trends The evolution of construction costs in the coming months will depend on various factors, including the stability of material prices, global economic developments, and government policies aimed at the sector. In terms of materials, supply chain stabilization is expected to continue contributing to greater predictability in costs. However, global market volatility and potential impacts of climate change may present additional challenges, such as disruptions in the supply of raw materials. Regarding labor, the sector faces the challenge of attracting new professionals to meet high demand. Investments in training and qualifications may be a long-term solution, but in the short term, labor costs are expected to continue rising. Another important factor will be the impact of public policies on the construction sector. Measures that promote sustainability and energy efficiency, for example, could generate significant benefits but may also involve additional costs for developers. Impact on families and possible solutions For families, the increase in construction costs often translates into greater difficulties accessing housing. High prices affect both buyers and renters, at a time when the cost of living is already pressured by other factors such as general inflation and interest rates. To mitigate the effects of rising costs, some solutions could be considered. For instance, the use of innovative technologies in construction, such as sustainable materials and modular construction techniques, could help reduce costs and improve efficiency. Additionally, policies that incentivize construction, such as subsidies or tax exemptions, could stimulate the sector and facilitate access to housing for vulnerable families. The 4.2% increase in new housing construction costs in October reflects the complexities of a sector facing significant challenges, from labor shortages to fluctuations in material prices. While the decrease in material prices may provide partial relief, the ongoing increase in labor costs underscores the need for sustainable solutions to ensure the economic viability of the sector and access to housing. In a context marked by economic and social uncertainties, balancing construction costs with housing needs will be crucial for the sustainable development of communities. Investment in innovation and the implementation of effective public policies can play a determining role in overcoming these challenges.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Property rents could increase by 2.16% from January 2025 , according to data on average inflation excluding housing published by the National Statistics Institute (INE). However, in some cases, the adjustment could be significantly higher, reaching up to 11.1% if the landlord decides to apply the cumulative rent update coefficients for the last three years . This increase follows a period of strict rent controls, particularly in the last two years, during which the government decided to limit rent hikes. In 2024, rents were adjusted by 6.94%, the highest increase in the last three decades , while in 2023, growth was capped at 2% due to containment measures approved by the executive. Now, with inflation allowing for a new adjustment, landlords have the possibility to apply not only the 2025 coefficient but also those from previous years if they chose not to do so earlier. This situation could particularly affect tenants with higher rents or whose landlords opted not to apply previous updates. Moreover, the More Housing Law also allows rents from contracts prior to 1990 to be adjusted based on the inflation coefficient, potentially rising by 2.16% if more than a year has passed since the last update. Although the 2025 increase is lower than that of 2024 , many tenants may see their monthly expenses significantly increase, especially if landlords decide to apply cumulative updates. This possibility has caused some concern, particularly in a context where rents are already considered high. Rent updates are a right granted to landlords by law, but many tenants fear that this increase could put even more pressure on family budgets at a time when the cost of living remains high due to inflation. It remains to be seen whether the government will take additional measures to mitigate the impact of these updates or whether the market will absorb these changes without major disruptions. Read more about : How to create more interactive property listings? Regulated electricity tariffs may rise in 2025 , Climate change: seaweed could help .
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction With the increasing efficiency and digital optimisation in the real estate market, agencies need a platform that centralises all operations and facilitates the visualisation of relevant data for business development. By using eGO Real Estate, it is possible to generate and present reports that provide valuable insights, from property management to team performance. Here are some examples of reports that can be extracted to support your decisions: Property Reports: Enhance the effectiveness of your sales strategies with detailed reports on the number of visits and property performance by type and location. This data helps identify, for example, if you have any properties that you havent yet shown to any clients. It is also useful for understanding which properties you sold according to their location and type. It can be beneficial to know which property evaluations you have conducted and to have a summary of the number of visit sheets you delivered. Sales Reports: eGO allows you to extract reports on the sales/business transactions you have in progress by simply applying your chosen filters. For instance, if you want to see the deals that did not result in a sale or the deals that you closed, you can perform an advanced search and see what is important when extracting the report. This can be helpful to check which ongoing sales are more likely to result in a closed deal. If you have a team, you can extract reports showing the ongoing sales for each consultant, for example. The possibilities are vast; just dedicate some time to explore. Contact Reports: It is possible to extract reports of a selected set of contacts. For example, if you want to gather all contacts related to property owners, you can do so, as well as compile all potential clients interested in houses in a specific area. It’s all about understanding what you need, and with a few clicks, you have the report at your disposal with all the detailed information. Custom Reports: As you can see, the possibilities are endless. eGO goes further and aims to stay updated with the needs of real estate professionals. By having access to comprehensive reports on your teams and each agencys performance, you can identify where it is necessary to strengthen strategies or optimise processes. These can be personalised and adapted to the needs of your agency, aimed at facilitating and saving hours of work. With the help of eGO Real Estate, real estate agencies can generate detailed and automated reports, simplifying the analysis of agency and consultant performance. The platform, which has over 20 years of success in the market, stands out by offering an integrated solution, from property management to invoicing certified by the Tax Authority, all in one place. If you want to improve your agencys performance and stand out in the market, take advantage of the benefits of using eGO Real Estate and request a free demonstration now. With the help of this platform, you will be able to present complete statistical reports and make strategic decisions that will make a difference in your real estate business.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Being able to rely on real estate market specialists, prepared to offer a personalised and efficient service due to their extensive knowledge of the local market, is essential to ensure a quick sale at the best possible price. A qualified team accompanies every step of the sales process, from property evaluation to the final negotiation stage. The team is committed to understanding your needs and goals, providing personalised advice that will help you make the best decisions . Additionally, they handle all details, from property preparation to marketing strategy and negotiations with potential buyers. Thanks to their experience and knowledge of the market, the qualified team offers the best strategies to sell your property quickly and at the ideal price, using a combination of traditional and digital marketing to reach a diverse target audience. The commitment between the real estate agency and the client is to provide a high-quality service, based on transparency, professionalism, and in-depth market knowledge. With this, the aim is to make the sales process as simple and successful as possible . Read more about: Improve customer service: be incisive , Get a good property portfolio: 3 tips , Motivate your team: make more deals happen
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction As temperatures drop, people tend to spend more time indoors, and this period naturally invites new stages, which can attract potential buyers. However, to ensure a successful sale, it is essential to properly prepare the house to receive visitors and adapt it to the season. Here are some expert tips to optimise your home before putting it on the market during autumn. Did you know that autumn can be a favourable time to sell your home? If you are planning to put it on the market after summer, follow these recommendations to speed up the process and capture the interest of the right buyers. Take advantage of autumn’s charm: This season has a particular charm that can be used to highlight the best features of your home. Decorate it with typical autumn colours, both outside and inside, creating cosy and attractive environments for visitors. Do a deep clean: A thorough clean is crucial for preparing the house, both for the change of season and the selling process. Make sure to clean carpets, curtains, and upholstery well, eliminating stains and odours. Don’t forget to take care of often neglected details like drains, taps, and sockets. Take care of the exterior: First impressions matter, and in the case of a house, the exterior is the first thing buyers will see. If you have a garden, keep it tidy by mowing the lawn and pruning plants. Also, pay attention to the entrance, placing a nice doormat and, if possible, some plants to beautify the surroundings. Check the heating and cooling systems: With autumn approaching, it is essential to ensure that the heating and air conditioning systems are working properly. This will be important to show potential buyers that they won’t need to make costly repairs after the purchase. Also, check your homes energy efficiency , as this is an increasingly important factor in buying decisions. Strategic lighting: Lighting plays a fundamental role, especially in autumn when the days are shorter, and natural light is scarce. Make sure your home is well-lit during viewings by replacing burnt-out bulbs and adding lights to dimly lit areas to create more spacious and welcoming environments. Adjust the décor for autumn: The décor should also reflect the warmth of this season. Small changes, like replacing curtains with thicker ones, adding rugs and throws in strategic spaces, or using air fresheners with soft scents of cinnamon or apple, can make buyers feel at home. By following these tips, your home will be ready to impress and ensure a successful sale this autumn. Read more about: 3 tips to enhance your home , 5 Myths About Selling a House , Ten practical tips to prevent damp in your home
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction If youre considering selling your home, its important to be aware of capital gains on real estate and the tax implications that may arise from the transaction. Capital gains represent the positive difference between the selling price of the property and its acquisition cost, and can result in significant tax obligations. What are capital gains on real estate? Capital gains on real estate occur when a property is sold for more than it was purchased. This gain is taxable, so it is crucial to understand it to avoid surprises when declaring tax. How to calculate capital gains? To calculate the capital gain, you should consider: Selling price: The amount for which you sold the property. Purchase price: The amount you paid for the property, including associated costs such as notary and registration fees. Expenses related to the sale: Costs associated with selling the property, such as real estate commissions or improvement costs. The basic formula is: Capital gain = Selling price - (Purchase price + Related expenses) Tax rates on capital gains In Portugal, real estate capital gains are subject to taxation. For individuals, the tax on capital gains is 50% of the amount obtained, and the IRS tax rate corresponding to your income bracket applies. However, there are some exemptions and reductions: Exemption for primary residence: If you reinvest the sale amount in the purchase of a new primary residence, you may be exempt from paying tax on capital gains. Exemption for properties sold for less than €500,000: In some cases, there may be exemptions for properties sold for less than this amount. What to do before selling? Get informed about the tax regime: Before selling, consult an accountant or tax specialist to understand your obligations and rights. Prepare the documentation: Ensure all necessary documentation is in order, including the deed of acquisition, proof of expenses, and documents showing the propertys appreciation. Selling a home can be a rewarding experience, but its essential to be aware of the tax implications associated with real estate capital gains. Plan the sale in advance and seek professional advice to ensure you meet all tax obligations and maximize your profits. Read more about: The impact of home staging on property valuation and sales , Prepare your home for sale in autumn , 3.3% growth in house sales this summer
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction In recent years, the role of credit intermediaries has gained prominence in the Portuguese financial market, especially with the increase in demand for mortgage and personal loans. But what exactly are credit intermediaries and what is their role in the financing process? What are credit intermediaries? Credit intermediaries are entities or professionals who act as intermediaries between the client (individual or business) and financial institutions, with the aim of facilitating access to credit. Their main function is to advise, present, and propose credit contracts, as well as assist in the processing of these contracts. These intermediaries can work with various types of credit, including mortgages, consumer loans, and auto loans. Their role is to simplify the process of choosing and negotiating with banks or other financial entities, offering clients different financing options and helping them find the most suitable solution for their needs and financial profile. Types of credit intermediaries There are three main types of credit intermediaries, as defined by the Bank of Portugal: Linked credit intermediaries: These intermediaries work on behalf of one or more credit institutions, promoting and formalizing credit contracts. However, they can only work with the institutions with which they have a contractual relationship. Independent credit intermediaries: These intermediaries are not tied to any particular credit institution, allowing them to compare and propose solutions from different banks, providing a more comprehensive view of the market. Ancillary credit intermediaries: These intermediaries operate in contexts where credit is offered as an adjunct to a product or service. A typical example is car dealerships that facilitate vehicle financing through partnerships with banks or financial institutions. Advantages of using a credit intermediary Hiring a credit intermediary can bring several advantages to those seeking financing. Key benefits include: Access to various credit proposals: A credit intermediary has access to multiple financial institutions, allowing clients to compare different offers and choose the one that best suits their needs. Negotiation of better terms: Due to their experience and knowledge in the sector, intermediaries can negotiate better credit terms, such as lower interest rates or more favorable terms. Personalized support: Credit intermediaries provide personalized service, assisting clients throughout all stages of the credit acquisition process, from choosing the financial institution to signing the contract. Regulation and licensing It is important to note that in Portugal, credit intermediaries are subject to regulation and supervision by the Bank of Portugal. To operate legally, these entities must be properly registered with the regulator and meet a set of stringent requirements, including providing clear and transparent information to clients. Additionally, credit intermediaries are not allowed to charge commissions directly to clients for their services, being compensated by the financial institutions they work with. This rule aims to protect consumers from abusive practices and ensure that the service provided is impartial and transparent. Credit intermediaries play an important role in the Portuguese financial market, facilitating access to credit and helping consumers make informed decisions about financing. However, it is essential for clients to choose intermediaries authorized by the Bank of Portugal, ensuring that they are dealing with professionals who operate transparently and responsibly. By using these intermediaries, consumers can benefit from a simpler, faster process tailored to their needs.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The reservation of a property and the Promissory Purchase and Sale Agreement (PPC) are two common instruments in the property acquisition process in Portugal, but they have significant differences that are important to understand. A property reservation is an initial commitment between the buyer and the seller , which guarantees the exclusivity of the negotiation over the property for a specified period. This informal agreement usually involves a deposit, which can be partial or symbolic, to ensure that the property will not be sold to third parties while the parties finalize the terms of the transaction. However, the reservation does not have sufficient legal force to compel the seller to complete the sale, serving more as a good-faith guarantee between the parties. On the other hand, the Promissory Purchase and Sale Agreement (PPC) is a formal and legally binding contract, in which both parties commit to completing the sale of the property under previously agreed conditions. The PPC is typically accompanied by a significant deposit, which protects both the buyer and the seller: if the buyer withdraws, they forfeit the deposit, and if the seller defaults, they must return double the amount received. This contract is the final step before the deed of sale and establishes deadlines, financing conditions, and potential penalties in case of non-compliance. The main distinction between the two instruments lies in the degree of commitment and legal protection. While the reservation is a preliminary agreement that allows the buyer to secure the property during negotiations, the PPC establishes a firm legal commitment between the parties, providing greater security for both. Experts recommend that before signing any reservation or PPC agreement, buyers check all property details and ensure that they have approved financing conditions to avoid future hurdles in the purchasing process. This distinction is crucial for potential property buyers in Portugal, especially in a highly competitive real estate market, where many choose to secure the property with a reservation while finalizing financing or documentation details.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Selling a house is a process that can be complex and full of doubts, and many sellers may be led to believe in certain myths that do not reflect the reality of the real estate market. Here, we debunk five common ideas about selling a house to help you make more informed decisions. The sale price is always negotiable Many believe that the sale price of a property is always negotiable, but this is not always true. While there is often room for negotiation, especially in competitive markets, the price should be set based on a realistic market assessment and the propertys characteristics. An overly inflated price can discourage potential buyers and extend the selling time. I only need to list my house on real estate websites Listing your house on real estate websites is important, but it is not the only step to ensure a successful sale. Promoting the property on social media, using a real estate agency, and hosting open houses are also effective strategies to reach a wider audience and attract more interested buyers. The best offers come quickly Another common myth is that the best offers arrive quickly. In reality, the selling process can take time, and the first offer is not always the best. Its important to be prepared to negotiate and consider all offers before making a decision. Sellers always have full control over the closing date While sellers may have some influence on the closing date, the final date often depends on the buyers conditions, such as financing approval and inspection completion. Flexibility may be required to facilitate the transaction. I need to do major renovations before selling Its not always necessary to carry out major renovations before selling a house. Small improvements and repairs can boost the propertys appeal without requiring significant investment. Assessing the return on investment is crucial to avoid excessive spending that may not be recovered in the sale price. Debunking these misconceptions can help sellers approach the selling process with a clearer and more realistic understanding. Consulting an experienced real estate agent and preparing the house properly for the market are essential steps for a successful sale.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Lack of supply and rising prices worsen student housing crisis The crisis in the student housing sector in Portugal has reached worrying levels, with the growing shortage of beds and the sharp increase in prices affecting thousands of university students. The start of a new academic year has intensified the search for accommodation in the main cities of the country, but the supply has proven to be insufficient to meet the needs of students, especially those coming from other regions. Shortage of university housing According to recent data, the number of beds available in public and private residences falls far short of demand. It is estimated that only 15% of displaced students manage to secure a place in university residences, forcing the vast majority to turn to the private rental market. This, in turn, is facing a surge in prices, driven by high demand and a shortage of affordable alternatives. High prices in major academic cities In Lisbon and Porto, the main university hubs, average room prices have increased by around 20% compared to the previous year, reaching prices ranging from 450 to 600 euros per month. In some areas, prices are comparable to those in the regular housing market, pushing students from lower-income families away and exacerbating inequality in access to higher education. In addition to the high costs, many students report difficulties in finding suitable living conditions. The supply is limited, and when we find a place, the conditions are often precarious or the prices are exorbitant, says Mariana Costa, an engineering student at the university of Porto. Insufficient government responses Authorities acknowledge the problem, but the solutions implemented have been insufficient. The national programme for higher education housing, which planned to create thousands of new beds in university residences, is still facing delays in the construction of new units. Budgetary constraints and bureaucratic hurdles are also cited as obstacles to quickly resolving the issue. Students and academic associations have been pressuring the government for urgent measures, such as rent control and increased public investment in residences. However, so far, the responses have been considered insufficient. Meanwhile, the student housing crisis continues to be one of the biggest challenges in accessing higher education in Portugal.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Efficient property promotion is essential for any consultant or real estate agency aiming to attract the maximum number of potential buyers. In an increasingly competitive market, knowing how to stand out on real estate portals is crucial to accelerating sales and ensuring success. Here are three essential tips that can make all the difference. 1 - High-Quality Photography and Virtual Tours with a Good Description The first impression is crucial in the buying decision, and nothing catches attention like high-quality virtual tours showcasing the propertys strengths, one of the main factors influencing buyers decisions. Well-lit photos with proper framing that highlight the spaces make the listing more attractive and generate more interest. Moreover, it is important to accompany the images with detailed and appealing descriptions. A good description should go beyond technical characteristics, such as the number of bedrooms and total area. It’s essential to create a text that conveys the unique qualities of the property, its potential, and the experience of living in that space. Descriptions that appeal to emotions and highlight the benefits can grab the readers attention and encourage them to schedule a visit. In your text, be mindful of the language you use—neither too informal nor too technical—and pay attention to spelling to avoid appearing careless. Tell a compelling and engaging story that captivates the reader. If you want virtual tours for all your properties and photos taken with your smartphone without needing a 360º camera, Virtual Tour by eGO Real Estate is the ideal solution. It offers affordable prices and a team that creates the tours for you in just 24 hours. 2 - Keywords are the Secret to More Visibility on Real Estate Portals One of the most effective ways to ensure your listings appear in searches on real estate portals is to optimize the use of keywords. These should be carefully chosen and naturally integrated into the title and property description. Use relevant terms like modern 4-bedroom apartment in central Lisbon or 3-bedroom house with a pool in Cascais to help potential clients find your property more easily. Be strategic with your description, guiding it precisely where you want it to go. Be selective with the keywords you use, as they will benefit your listing in terms of SEO. Don’t just describe the property; be specific and appealing, highlighting the surrounding areas, available services, and telling a story that makes a potential buyer want to move there. 3 - Track Metrics and Frequently Update Listings Keeping listings updated is essential for efficient property promotion. Whenever there are changes in the propertys condition, such as a renovation, price change, or new photos, these should be reflected in the listing. An updated listing builds trust among potential buyers and demonstrates consistent care in managing the sale. Additionally, monitoring the performance of listings is crucial. Tracking metrics like the number of views, clicks, and received contacts allows you to evaluate the effectiveness of your promotion and adjust strategies when necessary. If a listing isnt performing as expected, it may be necessary to review the image quality, revise the description, or experiment with new keywords to improve its search result positioning. To have a high-quality listing with good online positioning, it’s not enough to focus solely on the description. Attention to all aspects, including good photography, quality virtual tours, and illustrative videos, is required. Only by combining all these factors can you generate maximum excitement for your property! Being efficient in property promotion requires dedication and a strategic approach. Investing in quality photos, virtual tours, detailed descriptions, keyword optimization, and keeping listings updated are essential steps to attract more potential buyers and stand out on real estate portals. By applying these tips, consultants and agencies can maximize the visibility of their properties, increase visits, and speed up the sales process. On the SUPERCASA portal , you have access to plans with featured options to promote your properties and a back office where you can improve the performance of your listings to reach 100% visibility.
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