Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Sourcing has been one of the biggest challenges for many consultants. Adding to that, many find it difficult to find good properties, that is, good business opportunities. To increase your property portfolio and establish a relationship with each client, it is important to use good tools that help automate the process of searching for new properties on the market. Infocasa can be a good option to overcome sourcing difficulties , as it gathers all the information from various real estate portals and agencies. In practice, this means that you can access properties that may not be listed anywhere else. Additionally, on Infocasa, you can search for properties from professionals, individuals, banks, and even new construction. The variety of properties you find on this platform allows you to discover great opportunities. The first thing to do is to choose your target audience, that is, the property owners and clients you want to work with. Then, it is equally important to conduct market research with the help of Infocasa, where you can track price fluctuations and analyse the competition. Whenever necessary, you can quickly create a CMA ( Comparative Market Analysis ) and present your client with a selection of properties that may interest them. This is a comprehensive report that includes comparisons between similar properties, the average time on the market, the average selling price, an analysis of some competitors, and relevant points about the property’s location, such as schools, hospitals, etc. Having access to a complete database that gives you a comprehensive view of the market and allows you to create personalised alerts for when new properties come onto the market, when there are price reductions, and even to receive directly in your email a listing of the type of properties you are looking for in a specific location. The fact that Infocasa is integrated with eGO is a great advantage, especially if you are using the eGO Real Estate CRM. You will find that you can send the properties you are interested in directly to the CRM, thus generating qualified leads (the property you send to eGO will appear as a lead to be worked on, and you can contact the owner). Overcoming property sourcing challenges is possible with the right combination of strategies and tools. Infocasa stands out as an indispensable ally for consultants, simplifying the sourcing process and providing more efficient and targeted management.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The real estate market is becoming increasingly demanding, making it essential to have a well-trained team of consultants capable of delivering quality work. We know that managing people is a complex task, and keeping a team motivated can be challenging. 1 - Lead by Example A step that seems basic at first but is very important: lead by example . In other words, your actions and behaviours will significantly impact your consultants. There is a difference between leading and managing: management will always be present, as you will need to manage tasks and their distribution among the team, work organisation, meeting deadlines, and more. However, knowing how to lead, more than just manage, will have the most influence on the team and largely determine the level of motivation. Some strategies for effective leadership: listen actively and facilitate dialogue among team members, be able to find solutions instead of focusing on who caused a problem, and recognise the merits of the different team members. It’s also important to know when to defend the team. Promoting the physical and mental health of your consultants is essential to ensure they feel more productive and happier at work. Therefore, trust your team and encourage them to perform tasks independently, contributing to closing more real estate deals. 2 - Set Clear Objectives A motivated team has objectives and a direction to follow. All members are aligned and know the agencys goals. Each goal should be explicit, including the reasons behind them and where you aim to go as a team, so everyone moves in the same direction. This will help you as a leader to establish procedures and a working method that is universal for everyone, making management easier and optimising everyone’s time. It will also make it simpler to keep the whole team informed about task priorities. 3 - Get to Know Each Member Get to know each person on your team, from administrative staff to new consultants. It is crucial to understand what motivates each person to be part of your agency, identify their strengths and areas for improvement, and better coordinate and distribute the work. Another important point is giving and receiving feedback from the team. Create space for sharing opinions and ideas. Let them feel confident and, consequently, more motivated to contribute to the agency’s success. Ensure the agencys values and mission are well defined so everyone knows how they can help the company and whether they are aligned with that mission. You can use the eGO Real Estate CRM to record all consultants’ data and evaluate their performance. 4 - Ensure Good Working Conditions It is important to ensure the entire team is familiar with the procedures and uses the same program and tools for all tasks. Make sure everyone knows how to use the main program, the CRM. eGO Real Estate is the CRM preferred by real estate professionals, serving as the ideal solution for managers seeking innovative solutions with advanced technology that integrates all aspects of business management and strategy. There are many features everyone can use, from recording contacts, tracking the entire property negotiation process, automating many repetitive tasks, scheduling tasks, generating reports, and more. Each agency member can send personalised proposals to clients, schedule visits, submit work to the property owner, and even send marketing campaigns to clients. Many of the day-to-day repetitive tasks of a manager can be automated with eGO Real Estate, including email sending, scheduling visits, tracking deadlines, generating reports, and managing billing and commissions. eGO is designed to handle everything from administrative tasks to developing marketing strategies and digital content. This automation frees the manager to focus on more strategic activities, such as developing new sales plans or strengthening client relationships. Thus, your team will be able to increase the efficiency, productivity, and profitability of your business using the eGO CRM , which facilitates the daily work of the entire company. 5 - Keep the Team Updated The real estate market is dynamic and requires differentiated strategies, so it is necessary to keep the entire company updated. One excellent way to do this is by enrolling team members in real estate training. eGO CRM offers free in-person training in Óbidos specifically designed for CRM. Additionally, daily online webinars are available for any consultant on your team to attend for free , gaining knowledge from basic to advanced levels. This is a great way for the entire team to feel more valued because they have the best working conditions to perform well both personally and professionally.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The recent focus on seismic risks in various regions around the world has raised questions about the safety of buildings in countries like Portugal. Located in a moderately seismic area due to the proximity of the Eurasian tectonic plate to the African plate, Portugal has progressively adopted anti-seismic construction standards. However, is the current Portuguese real estate sector prepared to withstand a major earthquake? Seismic Risk in Portugal Portugal, particularly the southern region, is exposed to the risk of earthquakes, as demonstrated by the historic earthquake of 1755, which devastated Lisbon and other parts of the country. Although the country does not experience the same frequency of earthquakes as regions like Japan or California, the threat of a major earthquake is real and present, especially in southern Portugal and the islands of the Azores and Madeira. Seismic legislation in Portugal began to be rigorously established after the 1969 earthquake. Since then, anti-seismic construction regulations have been reviewed and updated, imposing increasingly strict standards for new buildings. Anti-seismic construction standards (RSA) are mandatory and aim to ensure that buildings can withstand a certain level of seismic force, minimizing the risk of collapse. Modern Buildings vs. Older Constructions Buildings constructed after 1983, the year when the regulation on safety and actions for building and bridge structures (RSAEEP) came into effect, must meet stringent seismic resistance requirements. This includes using more resistant materials such as steel and reinforced concrete, as well as specific construction techniques that enhance the buildings stability during an earthquake. However, much of the real estate in Portugal predates these regulations. Older buildings, many of which are located in historic centers of cities like Lisbon and Porto, were not designed with seismic concerns in mind. This makes them more vulnerable to earthquakes, especially those that have not been subject to rehabilitation or structural reinforcement. Safety Measures and Seismic Reinforcement In recent years, projects have been implemented to rehabilitate older buildings with a focus on seismic reinforcement. These interventions include strengthening foundations, using steel beams to reinforce walls, and installing seismic isolators, which allow greater flexibility in the structure during a quake. Local authorities and the Portuguese government have been encouraging urban rehabilitation with seismic concerns, offering financial support for owners who wish to enhance the safety of their buildings. However, the process of adapting and reinforcing older buildings is costly and complex, which means many properties have not yet been adequately prepared. Is the Current Real Estate Sector Safe? According to experts, new buildings in Portugal, especially in major urban areas and zones more exposed to earthquakes, are well-equipped to withstand a moderate to high magnitude earthquake due to compliance with anti-seismic standards. However, the challenge remains with older constructions, many of which pose an increased risk to their inhabitants. Recent seismic disasters in other countries have served as a warning for the need for greater oversight and intervention in buildings that do not comply with current regulations. Local authorities are responsible for monitoring the condition of buildings, especially those showing signs of structural wear. Preparation for the Future Although Portugal has made significant progress in anti-seismic construction, the need for contingency plans, public awareness, and the rehabilitation of older buildings remains a priority. Creating safe zones and training qualified professionals to handle seismic emergencies are also crucial aspects to ensure the safety of the population. While new Portuguese buildings meet anti-seismic safety requirements, much of the old real estate still requires significant interventions to ensure the protection of its inhabitants in the event of a major earthquake. Implementing stricter rehabilitation policies and raising awareness of seismic risks will be essential for a safer future in the real estate sector in Portugal.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The Quarterly National Accounts for the second quarter of 2024, recently published by INE (Statistics Portugal), confirmed a 1.5% year-on-year increase in GDP . As for construction investment and the GVA of the sector, year-on-year changes of +0.3% and -0.1%, respectively, were recorded, reflecting a slowdown compared to the +0.7% and +2.0% variations observed in the first quarter of the year. Regarding the real estate market , in the first six months of 2024, there was a 7.6% year-on-year contraction in the total number of licenses issued by Municipal Councils, with a notable reduction of 22.9% in the licensed area of non-residential buildings and a decline of 8.9% in licensed new housing units, both year-on-year. In terms of loans granted for housing acquisition, excluding renegotiations, there was a continued positive trend until June, with a cumulative year-on-year growth of 31.8%, reaching 7,636 million euros. Regarding the costs of new housing construction, in June, there was a 3.7% year-on-year increase in the respective index, resulting from changes of 0.1% in the materials component index and 8.4% in the labor component index. In the public works market, by the end of July, public works contracts totaling approximately 6.1 billion euros were opened, representing a significant year-on-year increase of 64.5%. As for the total amount of public works contracts signed and registered on the Portal Base, there was an increase of 31.6% in comparable year-on-year terms. Read more: OE2025: Ongoing negotiations , Portugal 2030: Over 4.6 billion up for tender , IRS: New tables in effect
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction According to information from the Bank of Portugal released this week, the average interest rate on new mortgage credit contracts and renegotiated contracts decreased in July by 0.03 percentage points and 0.09 percentage points, respectively. Thus, the interest rates for new mortgage credit contracts dropped to 3.56%, while the rates for renegotiated contracts decreased to 4.05%. There was also a decrease of 0.03 percentage points in the average value across other European countries. Portugal had one of the lowest interest rates (7th place) compared to other countries. Read more about: IRS: new tables in effect.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction September marks the return to school and the end of summer holidays, a challenging time for many families, especially real estate consultants. With a packed schedule of property viewings, meetings, and negotiations, balancing professional and family life can be difficult. To help, weve gathered some essential tips for real estate consultants with children that can make a difference during this back-to-school season. 1 - Organize Your Schedule in Advance Organization is key to ensuring your time is well spent. Use a shared calendar with your family where you can enter important commitments, such as property visits, client meetings, and your childrens activities like parent meetings, school events, or extracurricular classes. Planning in advance helps reduce stress and avoid scheduling conflicts. Tip: Set aside a specific block of time to spend with your children, even if its just an hour at the end of the day. This downtime is essential for strengthening family relationships and ensuring your children feel supported during the school year. 2 - Get Involved in Your Childrens School Routine Knowing how their school day went, helping with homework, or simply listening to their stories can make a big difference. Even with a busy schedule, small gestures like preparing their lunch or leaving an encouraging note in their backpack show that you are present and attentive. Tip: If your work schedule allows, take the opportunity to drop off or pick up your children from school whenever possible. These moments help create a special connection with them. 3 - Adapt Your Workspace to Accommodate Your Children If you can work from home some days, create a space where your children can be close to you while they study or do their homework. A small area with a desk and school supplies can be a great solution for days when you need to be together. This proximity allows you to be attentive and available without compromising your work tasks. Tip: Encourage your children’s independence by giving them small tasks they can do on their own while you work, like organizing their school supplies or planning their week. Being a real estate consultant and managing a family isn’t easy, but with organization, communication, and small daily adjustments, its possible to balance both worlds. This back-to-school season, take the opportunity to create new routines that promote well-being and show your children that despite a busy schedule, they are your priority. When you are with your children, be truly present. Avoid answering work calls or emails and focus on the quality of time spent together. This will not only improve family relationships but also recharge your energy for the next day’s challenges. Read more about: What is Sensory Marketing? Create Impact
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Bank-owned properties are assets owned by financial institutions (like banks) that result from a default on mortgage payments. In other words, when you buy a house and take out a mortgage, the bank usually requires the property as collateral. If you are unable to meet your mortgage payments, your house may be repossessed by the bank. These properties are typically listed for sale on the banks websites, real estate portals, and metasearch and listing platforms such as Infocasa . Because they are not well-known, these properties are often overlooked, but they can present good business opportunities. Its not just apartments or houses you can find; there are also plots of land, garages, offices, shops, and other types of properties. Pros Price Since these properties belong to banks, the prices are often more attractive and can be lower than the market value. While this is not a universal rule, it is often a positive point for those looking for this type of deal. Financial Conditions In addition to the more attractive prices, the financing conditions can reach up to 100%, in applicable cases, which can be a great advantage. Even when 100% financing is not available, the bank usually offers other benefits. Financial Return Buying bank-repossessed properties can be an effective strategy for those seeking long-term investment due to the reduced costs compared to traditional home purchases. Speed Since the property is sold by the bank, the entire process tends to be quick, as you are dealing with the usual procedures of a financial institution, which are typically fast and organized. Cons Property Condition Often, these properties are in poor condition. Another important point is that, given the quick process, buyers may not always be able to visit the property before closing the deal, which can lead to complications. Additional Costs Not seeing the property before purchasing means buyers might face additional maintenance or repair costs, depending on the propertys condition. This can be challenging and may deter some buyers from this type of deal. Limited Offer As these are repossessed properties, the available offer is limited to what the bank currently holds, which can complicate the selection process as choices are constrained by availability. Higher Monthly Payments While 100% financing can be an advantage, when its not available, it often means higher monthly mortgage payments. If you are considering investing in bank-owned properties, you should weigh the pros and cons carefully and be well-informed of all conditions, which can vary between banks. If you are a real estate consultant, you can use Infocasa to search for these properties and receive email alerts to stay updated on market availability.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Traveling through Portugal at this time of year can be an excellent opportunity. If youre going on vacation in September or October, take advantage of it. If your vacation is already over, you can always take a weekend getaway with your family. Discover three destinations in Portugal worth visiting in September or October, as the weather is mild, there are fewer tourists, and they are areas that are growing in real estate investment opportunities. 1 - Comporta: The Luxurious and Paradise Retreat Comporta, located on the Alentejo coast, has become one of Portugals most exclusive and sought-after destinations in recent years. Known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand dunes, this location is paradisiacal, tranquil, and sophisticated, ideal for those looking to escape urban hustle. The real estate market in Comporta features luxury villas, modern architecture homes in harmony with nature, and land plots with sea views. With increasing international demand, investing here can be an excellent business, both for personal use and rental investments. 2 - Douro Valley, Full of Life and Nature The Douro, famous for its terraced vineyards and stunning landscapes, is a perfect destination for those looking to invest in rural and tourist properties. In September, the Douro enters the harvest season, offering a unique experience to visitors with local festivals and vineyards in full harvest. In addition to its natural beauty, the region has been attracting real estate investors with historic estates, manor houses, and river-view properties that are being converted into tourist accommodations and hotels. The profitability potential in this region is high, especially for those investing in experiential tourism and wine tourism. 3 - Cascais: Quality of Life by the Sea Cascais is a destination that combines luxury, tradition, and a privileged seaside location. Just 30 minutes from Lisbon, this town is known for its beaches, golf courses, and marinas, making it a top choice for those seeking quality of life by the sea. In September, Cascais maintains pleasant temperatures without the summer crowds, making it ideal for exploring the coastlines beaches. The real estate market in Cascais continues to attract both national and international investors, offering everything from modern apartments to luxurious villas with sea views. The region is particularly interesting for those looking for a good return on investment, whether through short-term rentals or the constant appreciation of properties.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction In this article, SUPERCASA News shows you a different way of doing marketing that can be just as effective in influencing the decision to buy a property: Sensory Marketing . This type of marketing explores the five senses: taste, sight, touch, smell, and hearing . The goal is to stand out and spark interest in your potential client by appealing to the five senses and emotions. When a potential client visits a property, they have no connection with the space. Creating a link between the buyer and the property is one of the most important tasks of the real estate agent , and it’s crucial to work on each room to capture the client’s interest and activate positive emotions. The decision to buy or sell a house can be an excellent opportunity to appeal to emotions and build trust through sensory marketing strategies in your work as a real estate consultant. Here are some strategies you can use during property visits: 1 - Taste One way to stand out is by being creative and offering potential clients a small snack, coffee, tea, water, or some homemade cookies during property visits. To go the extra mile, you can also have some products from the local region. This small gesture creates empathy and leaves a good impression of the house and your work. Additionally, its a perfect strategy to break the ice during those awkward moments of waiting or silence. You can also offer your business card with a small edible treat at the end of the visit. This way, you’ll be remembered fondly, increasing your chances of closing deals. 2 - Smell Olfactory sensory marketing is a crucial step when preparing any property for sale, especially if the owners are smokers or have pets. Using this strategy, focus on eliminating unpleasant odors such as dampness, plumbing issues, lack of ventilation, and smoke. You can use aromatic diffusers to create your “brand.” This strategy will help clients start associating you with a specific scent. Be sure to know your potential client and choose subtle aromas that create a pleasant atmosphere and provoke the best sensations in visitors without being overpowering. 3 - Touch There’s nothing better than allowing clients to touch the walls, furniture, and other objects while visiting the property. Let them feel as if the house is already theirs, creating a unique sensory experience. Allow them to appreciate the comfort and coziness of the home. Real contact makes a big difference, providing a unique sensory experience. You can also hand them a Comparative Market Analysis of the property with similar listings, offering a personalized document that adds value. Showcasing quality work and professionalism always counts. 4 - Hearing Auditory sensory experience plays an important role and can be a great way to create a deep connection with potential clients visiting the property. You can choose soft background music or even bird sounds or flowing water, depending on your client’s preferences . If your client enjoys meditation and nature sounds, you can create a relaxing environment that makes them feel at home. If your client prefers conversation over background noise, you can adapt and enrich the experience with storytelling. After all, who hasn’t enjoyed listening to a captivating story? It’s all about knowing your potential client and adapting this strategy accordingly. 5 - Vision This is perhaps the most important strategy of all: the one that stands out the most for a potential client, as they will remember everything. If well applied, it can be extremely effective! Always ensure the property is tidy and well-presented. Home staging can be very useful , as it’s a technique that aims to enhance a property for sale or rent, making it more attractive and appealing to potential buyers or tenants by improving the presentation and decoration. Home staging doesn’t necessarily involve major renovations or investments. Small interventions in decor and organization can suffice. However, it’s important to hire qualified professionals who know market trends and can highlight each propertys strengths. Some key points to consider are cleanliness, depersonalization, appropriate decoration, and lighting. Another way to stand out with sensory marketing is through virtual tours , allowing potential clients to have a realistic experience before and after the physical visit. This way, your guided tour remains memorable, and the virtual visit will remind the client of all they saw and heard. Thanks to technological advancements, you can easily have virtual tours for all properties at an affordable price, even without a 360º camera—just use your smartphone. Simply photograph each room and send them to an app on your smartphone. A team will create the virtual tour for you within 24 hours. Easy and simple, right?
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