Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction In the real estate market, one of the major challenges for consultants is adapting their communication and approach to reach different generations of clients. Each generation has its own preferences, expectations, and ways of consuming information, and it is essential for real estate consultants to adjust their strategies to keep up with the market . Let’s explore how you can tailor your approach to Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z. Baby Boomers value personalized service Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964) prefer a more traditional and personalized service . They value direct contact and appreciate transparent , trust-focused service. To reach this audience, it is essential to focus on face-to-face meetings , phone calls, and clear, detailed communication about the property buying and selling process . Additionally, Baby Boomers place importance on aspects such as location and property security , so its important to highlight these features during visits. Invest in printed materials, high-quality brochures , and detailed in-person tours to build trust with this group. In CRM eGO, you can print visit sheets and Comparative Market Analyses to hand out during property visits. Generation X likes a balance between tradition and technology Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980) represents a bridge between the digital and traditional worlds. Although this generation grew up without digital technology, they adapted to it easily. Consultants should combine strategies that include both traditional and digital methods . To reach Generation X, focus on ads on real estate portals, personalized emails with detailed information, and informative content that aids decision-making. This group values transparency and reliable information, so it is important to provide clear reports and market analyses . Social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn are also good channels to interact with this generation. In CRM eGO, you can send them a document with all the actions you’ve taken to promote the property . You can also send a digital portfolio with exclusive access to a specific selection of properties , according to their preferences. Millennials: Focus on technology and sustainability Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) are the first generation to grow up with internet access and digital technology. To engage this group, a strong online presence is essential. Investing in high-quality photos, videos, virtual tours, and social media content is crucial to capture Millennials attention, who prioritize convenience and speed. Millennials are also very attentive to sustainability and innovation. Therefore, highlighting features such as energy efficiency , automation of daily tasks, and proximity to sustainable mobility services (bicycles, public transport) can be a significant advantage. This group values transparency and wants quick, direct access to information, so focusing on responsive websites, apps, and chatbots for dynamic service is important. The Virtual Tour by eGO Real Estate might be the service you need for affordable virtual tours of all properties . The great advantage is that you can photograph the property using just a smartphone and send the photos to the app. The Virtual Tour team creates the virtual tour for you in just 24 hours. Generation Z: Authenticity and digital experiences Generation Z (born from 1997 onwards) is digital native and values authenticity . This generation frequently turns to social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for information and recommendations. To attract Generation Z, invest in creative and visual content, such as short videos, reels, and interactive stories , that showcase property personalities and provide an engaging digital experience. Generation Z prefers fast and direct communication. Therefore, it is crucial to be present on instant messaging platforms and ensure prompt responses. Showing transparency, diversity, and ethical values is important to gain this audience’s trust. In eGO , you can easily send WhatsApp messages and SMS to ensure timely responses. You can also create digital marketing campaigns and publish content on your real estate website in just a few clicks with the Communication Module . To be a successful real estate consultant in today’s market, it is essential to adopt a multigenerational approach. Personalize your communication, use various platforms, and invest in innovative technologies that facilitate the buying and selling process for your clients. Adapting to the needs of each generation will not only increase your reach but also strengthen your reputation as a versatile and up-to-date consultant. CRM eGO can help you in this process. For more information or a free demo, click here .
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 Portugal has recently been highlighted as the most attractive country globally for industrial investments, according to the International Industry Investment Report 2024. The report praises the country’s favorable business environment, driven by tax incentives, supportive policies, and a skilled workforce. Political stability and infrastructure modernization were also mentioned as important factors. Sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and biotechnology are noted as promising areas for investment. The Portuguese government has promoted policies like tax benefits and subsidies to attract foreign investments, as well as investing in modern infrastructure and training centers. This recognition is expected to boost foreign direct investment, create new jobs, and strengthen the Portuguese economy. The Lisbon Stock Exchange reacted positively, with an increase in the shares of industrial and tech companies.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Increase to 860 euros in 2025 The government announced on tuesday its intention to raise the national minimum wage to 860 euros from 1 January 2025. This measure is part of the executives plan to strengthen the purchasing power of Portuguese workers and tackle wage inequality, moving towards the goal of reaching a minimum wage of 900 euros by 2026. Discussions with social partners According to the minister of labour, solidarity and social security, this proposal will be discussed with social partners in the coming weeks, within the framework of social dialogue. The minister emphasised that increasing the minimum wage is a priority for the government, at a time when the country is facing a rising cost of living, driven by inflation and higher prices of essential goods. Impact on the economy The government believes that this increase will have a positive impact on the economy by stimulating domestic consumption and promoting more inclusive economic growth. However, the proposal is already generating mixed reactions among employers representatives and unions. Mixed reactions from employers and unions On the one hand, employers confederations have expressed concerns about the impact of this increase on operational costs for companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which may face additional challenges in bearing the burden. On the other hand, unions welcomed the measure but argued that more needs to be done to ensure that the minimum wage better reflects the current cost of living. Minimum wage currently at 820 euros The national minimum wage in Portugal is currently 820 euros, following an increase earlier this year. The governments aim is to continue improving the living conditions of workers, but the proposal still needs to be approved by parliament before it comes into effect.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction With the rising cost of living and inflation putting pressure on the budgets of Portuguese families, the government has implemented various support measures for workers earning the national minimum wage. These aids aim to alleviate the impact of essential expenses such as food, housing, and energy, ensuring that those with lower incomes receive some financial relief. Salary supplement One of the main measures is the Annual Salary Supplement, aimed at low-income workers. This support consists of an extraordinary payment at the end of the year, calculated based on the number of months worked and annual income. The goal is to complement the minimum wage, providing financial reinforcement for additional expenses. Housing subsidy The Rent Support Program is another available mechanism. Intended for those who have difficulty paying their rent, this subsidy aims to support families living in rented accommodation who face financial difficulties due to rising real estate prices. Energy support Minimum wage earners can also benefit from the Social Energy Tariff, which offers a significant discount on electricity and gas bills. This measure is automatic, applied directly by energy providers, without the need for consumers to request it. Public transport discounts Another important support is the Social+ Pass, which offers discounts on public transport for low-income individuals. This measure is essential for workers who depend on public transport daily and helps to significantly reduce travel expenses. Food support With rising food prices, the government has strengthened support through the Food Support Program, in partnership with charitable institutions. This program distributes essential goods baskets to low-income families, supplementing their food budget. Child and education support For families with children, there are also support measures in education, such as the family allowance, which can be increased for minimum wage workers. Additionally, there is the possibility of exemption or reduction of costs in nurseries and public schools, easing the family budget for education and childcare expenses.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Until the end of 2024, families with variable-rate mortgage loans will still be able to reduce their debts to the bank without incurring the 0.5% early repayment commission. However, if no new legislation is approved, this measure will end next year. The temporary suspension of commissions charged by banks in Portugal on early mortgage loan repayments is coming to an end without new legislation being passed to regulate the issue. The end of the suspension comes at a time when interest rates remain high, which may worsen the difficulties faced by Portuguese families with housing loans. In recent months, several consumer protection associations and political parties have pressured the government to extend the measure or create new legislation to limit the costs associated with early repayment. However, there has been no parliamentary consensus so far to approve a definitive solution. According to industry experts, with the end of the suspension, banks will once again be able to charge commissions on early loan repayments, ranging between 0.5% and 2% of the amount repaid, depending on the contract type. The absence of a new law may hinder the plans of many families who intended to reduce their debt to ease the impact of monthly payments, especially in a context of rising Euribor rates, warns João Ferreira, an economist specializing in the real estate market. The government, for its part, assures that it is working on a solution but has yet to present a concrete proposal. Finance Minister Marta Vieira stated last week that the executive is aware of families concerns and that it will be a priority to define a fairer and more transparent framework in the coming weeks. However, the opposition criticizes the delay and accuses the government of failing to address a problem that affects thousands of Portuguese. Until new legislation is approved, those who choose to repay their mortgage early will once again face associated costs, a factor that may discourage many families from reducing their debts. With uncertainty around future measures, consumers are once again at the mercy of banking practices.
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.