Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Building a strong network for research and contacts requires dedication and effort. For many, prospecting and acquiring properties can become overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be that way. In this article, we’ll explain some tips and strategies that can be simpler and more effective. Monitor the Market Daily It’s important to track the market every day to understand which new properties are coming on the market and, within your target areas, which owners are trying to sell their homes so you can reach them more easily. Speed and information are crucial factors in how you build your property portfolio. You want to be the first to contact property owners and stay ahead of the competition in a competitive market. Look for new properties and those available on the market, either by contacting owners, proactively visiting properties, or using platforms like Infocasa, which helps you optimise your time. Work with partners who simplify your daily tasks, such as Infocasa . This platform provides access to a comprehensive database of properties (including data from property portals, websites, AI, and more), where you can set up automatic alerts to receive new property listings for specific areas and price fluctuations directly to your email . You can also generate complete market reports in minutes, giving you a thorough view of market values based on a customised analysis tailored to your interests. Automate Prospecting and Acquisition In the daily life of a consultant, especially one who is out and about door-to-door, it’s easy to fall into disorganisation. Many professionals still use outdated methods for recording their routes and performance, but with advancements in technology and available tools, it’s now possible to manage all this on a single platform, which can even be integrated with your management CRM , saving time, making data analysis more efficient, and maintaining a reliable and organised history of information. With Infocasa, you can access properties from professionals, private sellers, banks, and new builds without leaving the office. This allows you to access good properties on the market without spending hours or days searching for good deals for your agency. The best part is that you can easily export your properties directly to the CRM integrated with Infocasa, greatly streamlining the back-office tasks of editing and managing properties. Prospect and Acquire Properties on the Go with Your Smartphone Expanding your property search beyond what is listed on portals or real estate websites can exponentially increase your opportunities. While finding this kind of information can be challenging, street prospecting can be very useful and complement online prospecting on Infocasa. To assist consultants who are out on the streets doing door-to-door work and who may not always have the time to be at their desk, Infocasa has developed ‘My Routes’, a platform accessible from your smartphone. With ‘My Routes’, you can walk the streets and set up your route on a map for real-time property prospecting in the area you’re in. While out and about, you can receive alerts for properties from private sellers in that area and quickly take notes within the app. Then, simply return to the office, sit in front of your computer, and review all the routes you’ve created, with the properties you’ve acquired already available in your CRM eGO, as it is integrated with Infocasa. Easy and straightforward, it’s an excellent way to expand your property portfolio! With the right tools, you can broaden your range of good properties and optimise time and money. If you’re interested in a free demo of Infocasa, click here.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The real estate market is becoming increasingly competitive, requiring persistence and differentiation from competitors. Therefore, it is essential to optimise your work, especially regarding Digital Marketing, by using everything integrated into one software. This is where the most comprehensive real estate CRM on the market, eGO Real Estate, comes in. It helps you manage contacts, properties, deals, leads, digital marketing, and teams, all in one place. Additionally, it offers the possibility of helping you improve your real estate website and provides training sessions that will be a valuable asset for you and your strategies. eGO allows you to create and manage digital marketing campaigns aimed at attracting new clients and leads. You can use this platform to send out mass newsletters, where you can showcase your property portfolio and send it to your database, which can be segmented according to your objectives. You can also send SMS campaigns, using different channels for different audiences, and view the respective metrics for each, with access to sent messages, click rates, views, and generated leads. With eGO, you can also visualise performance metrics and indicators (KPIs) that can help you, as an agency manager, measure employee performance, and check communication metrics related to newsletters, emails, or other campaigns, such as landing pages or SMS. See below how you can integrate Digital Marketing into the eGO CRM. SMS Marketing Campaigns With eGO, you can easily send this type of campaign. The advantages are numerous: easy to read, quick to understand , and direct contact with clients and potential clients, as SMS messages have a high open rate compared to other channels. This gives you more immediate and personalised communication , from scheduling viewings to negotiations, which can be scheduled to be sent at specific times, optimising your workflow. eGO also offers excellent cost-effectiveness in SMS campaigns , as you can personalise the message for a specific segment, meaning it is sent to targeted clients. You can also view metrics and see which SMS campaigns performed better and with which audience. Landing Page Campaigns Creating landing pages is a great digital marketing approach to increase lead generation . It is one of the most widely used strategies by many real estate consultants. A landing page always has a single goal, featuring a call-to-action button that prompts the reader to click and fill out a form with personal data in exchange for something, such as property information, an informative ebook, or scheduling a call with a consultant. If you have a real estate CRM like eGO Real Estate , you have tools available to easily create landing pages . Newsletter Campaigns This communication method can be effective if your approach is personalised and appealing, using CTAs (calls-to-action) that are impossible to ignore and captivating text that makes your potential client feel the need to contact you. Perfect for weekly, monthly, or even seasonal mailings (Christmas, Easter, etc.) , they offer versatility to send communication according to your defined strategy, depending on the audience you are targeting. Everything can be done within eGO, saving you time and effort. Email Marketing Campaigns In addition to newsletters, email marketing is a strategy that helps your agency stand out, as it is an excellent way to create a closer connection with clients and potential clients. With your entire database in the eGO CRM, it becomes much easier to segment and personalise email campaigns for each audience. It’s easy to create an engaging, concise email in eGO that shows your care and dedication to each reader. The best part is that you can prepare your campaigns in advance and schedule them in the CRM to be sent at the set date and time, saving you more time. Real Estate Websites by eGO Real Estate Having a good real estate website doesn’t need to cost a lot. You can have a professional site optimised for all devices and search engines, with a modern, fully customisable design and engaging, informative content, all through the eGO CRM. This way, both your management and website are integrated into one place. If your day-to-day is packed with listings, viewings, meetings, proposals, and deeds, and you don’t have much time to improve your real estate website, there are several solutions that allow you to integrate a beautiful, mobile-optimised, ready-to-use website with SEO technology that enhances it for any search engine. If you’re looking for a CRM that helps you optimise and automate these functions, click here for a free demo and explore digital marketing. Read more about: Do you have a business? Discover 3 marketing trends Work on your social media for better results The 7 problems real estate agents face and their solutions
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The Algarve continues to be a top destination for international investors, with over 50% of real estate investment in the region coming from foreign nationals. The market, driven by the demand for luxury properties and growing interest in second homes, has seen strong growth in recent years. The most sought-after areas include coastal cities like Albufeira, Lagos, and Vilamoura, where property values have shown significant appreciation. Many foreign investors view the Algarve as an ideal holiday destination but also as a safe opportunity to diversify their real estate portfolio. Industry experts suggest that this trend is likely to continue in the coming years, as the Algarve solidifies its position as one of Europe’s most attractive real estate destinations, benefiting from a mild climate, quality infrastructure, and a high standard of living. This increased demand has had positive impacts on the region’s economic development but also raises challenges related to sustainability and access to housing for the local population, which is facing a significant rise in property prices. With the growing competitiveness of the market and the constant flow of international investors, the Algarve continues to establish itself as one of the major hubs for foreign investment in Portugal.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction With the growing interest of foreigners in purchasing property in Portugal, many financial institutions are offering mortgage loans tailored to international investors. However, to facilitate the financing approval process, it is crucial for foreign applicants to be aware of the necessary documents and be prepared to present them appropriately. To apply for a mortgage in Portugal as a foreigner, the following documents are generally required: Personal Identification: A valid passport or ID card from the country of origin. If residing in Portugal, a Portuguese tax identification number may also be required. Proof of Residence: Utility bill, rental agreement, or other document confirming current residence. Proof of Income: Tax returns, salary receipts, or proof of income from business activities. If the applicant is self-employed, additional documentation regarding their activity and income is essential. Employment Contract or Proof of Employment: A document confirming job stability, such as an employment contract or a letter from the employer. Bank Statements: Copies of recent bank statements, generally from the last three to six months, to demonstrate the applicant’s financial capacity. Property Documentation: Purchase or reservation contract, appraisals, and other documents related to the property being acquired. Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF): To obtain a NIF, foreigners must visit a tax office in Portugal or a Portuguese consulate in their home country. Proof of Down Payment: To ensure the buyer can cover part of the property cost, proof of available funds is required. In addition to these documents, each bank may have specific requirements, and it is advisable to consult directly with the financial institution to obtain a detailed and updated list. It is also recommended to seek the assistance of a financial or legal advisor specializing in international real estate transactions to ensure that all legal and financial aspects are properly addressed. With the proper documentation and careful planning, foreigners can successfully navigate the mortgage process in Portugal and achieve the dream of acquiring property in the country.
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 Before approving a mortgage, banks in Portugal require the property to be appraised by certified experts. This bank appraisal, often unknown to buyers, is a mandatory step in the process of obtaining financing. The main goal is to ensure that the propertys value aligns with the amount of credit requested, ensuring that the property will serve as adequate collateral in case of loan default. The appraisal process begins after the credit application is submitted to the bank. The bank appoints an independent appraiser, who conducts a detailed analysis of the property, considering factors such as location, size, condition, and the prices of similar properties in the region. Based on these criteria, the expert determines the propertys market value. This value is crucial, as it determines the percentage of financing the bank will grant. Typically, financial institutions finance between 80% and 90% of the lower value between the purchase price and the appraisal value. If the property is appraised at a value lower than the purchase price, the buyer will have to cover the difference with their own funds. The appraisal has costs, ranging from €200 to €400, depending on the location and type of property. This fee is paid by the client, regardless of whether the loan is approved or not. Furthermore, the appraisal process can influence the banks final decision on granting the credit, potentially leading to the need to renegotiate the loan amount or terms. Although it is a mandatory step, the bank appraisal can be advantageous for buyers, serving as protection against purchasing an overvalued property. However, it can also be an obstacle for those who struggle to cover the difference when the appraisal falls short of expectations. The bank appraisal is an essential and mandatory step in the mortgage process in Portugal, ensuring that both the bank and the buyer are protected in a constantly evolving real estate market.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Many Portuguese are unaware that transferring their mortgage to another bank can result in significant savings over the course of the contract. With rising interest rates and financial pressure on families, mortgage transfers have become an effective solution to reduce monthly payments and, in some cases, save thousands of euros over the total loan. This process, also known as mortgage portability, allows the borrower to transfer their loan to another bank that offers more advantageous conditions, such as lower interest rates or the elimination of some fees. With increasing competition between banks, many institutions are offering more attractive packages to attract new clients, creating interesting opportunities for those looking to renegotiate their mortgage. Before proceeding with the transfer, clients should carefully analyze the conditions offered by the new bank, comparing interest rates (fixed or variable), repayment terms, and any associated fees. Changing banks may involve some initial costs, such as transfer fees and expenses related to the new deed, but these costs are often quickly offset by the savings generated in the medium and long term. Furthermore, the original bank may apply a penalty of up to 0.5% on the outstanding balance for variable-rate mortgages or up to 2% for fixed-rate loans. However, the accumulated savings from the reduced interest rates can outweigh these initial costs. According to financial experts, transferring a mortgage can be particularly beneficial for loans with high interest rates. Depending on the conditions, customers can save several hundred euros per year, and in long-term contracts, savings can reach thousands. In times of economic uncertainty, with inflation squeezing family budgets, exploring mortgage transfer options can be a smart strategy for those looking to reduce their financial burden and increase budget flexibility. Experts recommend that consumers seek information from various institutions and compare offers to secure the best possible deal. If you have an active mortgage, it’s worth reviewing its terms and considering whether transferring to another bank could be the key to substantial savings.