Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Works contracts will have new thresholds The Public Contracts Code will change from 1 October, with new rules designed to make procurement processes simpler and faster. One of the main changes concerns the thresholds for choosing simplified procurement procedures. For public works contracts, the prior consultation procedure will now apply to contracts worth less than one million euros. Direct award procedures may be used for contracts worth less than €150,000. Currently, these thresholds are €150,000 for prior consultation and €30,000 for direct award. The thresholds will also increase for the purchase of goods and services. Prior consultation will have a threshold of €130,000, while direct award will have a threshold of €75,000. Execution projects gain greater flexibility The new rules also introduce changes to the execution of works. The contractor may propose changes to the execution project, provided that the project author agrees. This possibility only applies to parts of the works that have not yet been carried out. The changes may not alter the purpose of the works, compromise their quality or affect their functionality. Another change concerns the base price. The contracting authority will now be able to set this value in the invitation or procurement procedure documents, instead of it always being mandatory. New rules strengthen contract execution The new regime also establishes a 30-day deadline for the public contracting party to respond to a subcontracting proposal submitted by the contractor. If there is no response within this period, the proposal will be deemed accepted. In cases of unjustified delays or failure to comply with the work schedule, the project owner will also have greater powers. They may take administrative possession of the works and associated assets, continuing the work directly or through third parties. These measures aim to reduce the impact of delays and facilitate the completion of works when problems arise during contract execution. Technology and new proposals enter public procurement Digital transformation will play a more prominent role in public procurement. The new rules allow digital systems, including artificial intelligence, to be used in the planning, preparation and monitoring of procedures and contracts. The regime also establishes the “once-only” principle, to prevent companies from having to repeatedly submit documents that are already available through other entities. Another new feature is the possibility for companies, research centres and individuals to submit projects or solutions to the Public Administration before a tender is launched. The so-called spontaneous initiative aims to make it easier to present new ideas and solutions. The amendments to the Public Contracts Code will enter into force on 1 October 2026.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Municipality aims to triple housing supply Finding a home at a price that is compatible with household incomes remains a challenge in Porto. To help meet demand, the local authority is strengthening its commitment to affordable rental housing and intends to significantly increase the number of homes available under this scheme. The municipality has already delivered around 500 affordable rental homes. By the end of the current term, Porto City Council aims to reach 1,600 homes, increasing the supply available to families facing difficulties in the private rental market. This target requires a major expansion of the housing response promoted by the municipality, which is looking for new solutions to increase the number of properties covered by affordable rental housing. Renovation and construction among the solutions The local authoritys strategy involves using different models to create new affordable rental opportunities. Renovating existing buildings is one of the approaches being used, allowing properties to be restored and converted into housing. One example can be found in Cedofeita, where an old building is being renovated to create 25 new homes for this scheme. In addition to renovating properties, the municipality is also seeking homes from private owners and developing projects through Porto Vivo SRU. The construction of new buildings and partnerships with private entities are also part of the strategy to increase supply. More housing to meet demand The focus on affordable rental housing aims to create alternatives for people who cannot keep up with the prices charged in Portos property market. Increasing the supply could allow more families to find a housing solution with rent suited to their income. One of the models also being considered is build to rent, based on constructing properties specifically for rental. This solution makes it possible to integrate new projects into the municipal strategy and diversify the ways in which housing is made available. With several areas of action underway, Porto City Council aims to accelerate the creation of new homes and move closer to the target set for 2029. If achieved, the municipality will have significantly strengthened its ability to provide affordable rental housing in a city where demand remains high.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction €23.7 million project prepares intervention The Azores Government has completed the overall project to renovate the infrastructure of the 11 residential areas that make up the housing stock at Santa Maria Airport, in Vila do Porto. The completion of this phase now allows work to proceed on an intervention estimated at €23.7 million. The project was developed by PMT – Coordenação e Gestão de Projetos Unipessoal, following a public tender launched by the regional government in 2024. The proposal was presented to residents and local and regional authorities on 4 September, at Incuba+, in Vila do Porto. The intervention aims to restore a residential area that has faced several constraints over the years. The investment is expected to be carried out in phases, allowing implementation to be adapted to the Region’s budgetary resources. Works cover several infrastructures The works will be carried out area by area and include the renovation or construction of different infrastructures essential to the operation of the residential areas. Planned interventions include water supply and sanitation networks, electricity and communications networks, public lighting, roads and parking areas. The project also includes the restoration of green spaces and the road network. The intervention in the housing stock will be coordinated with another project led by Vila do Porto Municipal Council, aimed at improving municipal water supply and wastewater sanitation infrastructure in the airport area. Coordination between the two projects should make it possible to correctly size the infrastructure and ensure connections between the different networks, avoiding uncoordinated interventions in the future. Regeneration aims to enhance residential area The restoration of the housing stock is part of a broader process to enhance the area around Santa Maria Airport. The site has been classified as a site of public interest since 2017, which means specific rules apply to interventions. The current situation is also the result of years of limited intervention in infrastructure and surrounding areas. In 2013, the land and buildings ceased to be part of the State’s public airport domain and became part of the Region’s private domain. To seek solutions to the existing problems, the Airport Area Working Group was created in 2022, bringing together representatives from the Regional Directorate for Housing, the Regional Directorate for Culture and Vila do Porto Municipal Council. With the new project, the housing stock is entering a new phase of regeneration. The phased implementation should make it possible to progressively restore the different residential areas and improve the urban conditions and usability of this part of the island.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Social media is much more than a simple showcase for properties. With the right approach, you can attract buyers, engage property owners and keep your sales funnel moving. Go beyond the digital showcase Showcase your listings, of course, but diversify your content to deliver real value. Property viewing videos, quick local market insights and practical advice for buyers and sellers help build authority and attract people at different stages of the decision-making process. Remember that someone who is simply researching the price per square metre in your area today could become your next exclusive instruction tomorrow. Balance organic reach with paid advertising Regular posts build engagement and keep your brand front of mind, while paid campaigns accelerate results by reaching people with an immediate intention to buy in your area. By combining consistent organic content with targeted advertising, you can turn simple interactions and views into direct, qualified enquiries. Centralise everything in your CRM Generating a contact is only the first step; real conversion often depends on the speed and quality of your follow-up. Instead of wasting time switching between different apps to respond to messages, centralise publishing, campaign management and lead collection in one place. eGO Real Estate provides this complete integration, helping ensure no potential client gets lost in an inbox. Real results beyond vanity metrics Interactions such as likes or new followers carry value, but the true indicator of success is the number of leads that convert into meetings and viewings for your sales team. When you align relevant content, paid traffic, and CRM management, your digital presence scales up and operates as a continuous engine for listings. If you want to put all this into practice in your agency, speak to our specialist team and discover the solution that best fits your business .
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Buying a home is out of reach for many Access to housing remains one of the main challenges for Europeans on average incomes. In Portugal, the difficulty is particularly evident in metropolitan areas, where property prices have risen faster than incomes. A study by the Vienna University of Technology, published in the journal Maps, analysed more than 18 million property sale listings and 3.5 million rental listings across 31 European countries. The analysis concluded that only 44% of the population lives in cities where an average income allows them to buy an apartment or studio of around 50 square metres. In Portugal, this situation places the country among the markets considered systematically unaffordable for buyers on average salaries. Lisbon faces high housing pressure Large metropolitan areas account for a significant share of housing pressure. Lisbon is among the European capitals where a considerable proportion of the population struggles to find a moderately sized home without committing a large share of their income. The situation is made worse by the gap between property prices and households’ financial capacity. Even when long-term mortgage credit is available, the budget households have at their disposal continues to limit the size of the home they can afford. This reality particularly affects first-time buyers and those who need to move to another city for professional or personal reasons. Renting also faces difficulties The pressure is not limited to buying a home. The rental market also shows high levels of unaffordability in several European regions, including Portugal. In coastal and tourist areas, additional demand for temporary accommodation and second homes contributes to reducing the supply available to residents. This phenomenon is particularly relevant in areas where tourism plays a significant role in the local economy. When the supply of permanent housing decreases, rents tend to face additional upward pressure, making it more difficult for households to access suitable housing. More supply is essential to improve access The housing affordability crisis has a major impact on metropolitan areas, but its effects are also felt in surrounding regions. Rising prices in urban centres can lead to increased demand in peripheral areas, putting pressure on these markets as well. Improving access to housing will require increasing supply and adapting policies to the characteristics of each region. Measures targeting renting, construction, renovation and the use of the existing housing stock can help rebalance the market. In Portugal, the challenge is to create conditions for housing to become more aligned with households’ financial capacity, both for those looking to buy and those looking to rent.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Tax incentives aim to increase supply The new tax measures for housing are expected to have a significant impact on public finances in 2027. According to the forecasts in the Invariant Policies Framework (QPI), the set of planned changes is estimated to cost around €300 million, rising to €303 million based on the estimates presented. One of the main measures involves reducing VAT on the construction and renovation of properties intended for permanent housing. The rate could fall from 23% to 6%, provided that the criteria defined for the properties covered are met. The measure applies to construction works intended for sale or rental as permanent housing, regardless of location. However, there are limits to access the benefit: rents cannot exceed €2,300 per month and the sale price of properties is capped at €648,000. Rental housing will have a greater impact on revenue Another planned change concerns the taxation of rental income. The IRS rate applicable to rental contracts considered moderate is expected to fall from the current 25% to 10%, with the aim of encouraging more properties to be placed on the rental market. According to the QPI, this measure represents the largest share of the estimated financial impact, with a loss of approximately €209 million in revenue. In this case too, the contracts covered are subject to a maximum monthly rent of €2,300. Meanwhile, the reduction in VAT on construction is expected to result in a loss of around €94 million in revenue. The aim is to offset some of the difficulties that continue to limit the creation of new housing supply. Uptake will determine the final impact The estimated value of these measures depends on uptake by property owners and developers. The greater the use of the incentives, the greater their actual impact on State revenue will also be. The Government had previously estimated a cost of between €200 million and €300 million, meaning that the new estimate is slightly above this range. The QPI, published ahead of the discussion of the State Budget, brings together measures that have already been adopted or carried over from previous years and makes it possible to anticipate their impact on public finances. For 2027, spending already committed through these policies is around €4.8 billion.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Mirandela gains 180 new student beds The Polytechnic University of Bragança is increasing its student accommodation capacity with four university residences either under construction or already completed. The new facilities are located in Mirandela, Bragança and Chaves and are expected to add hundreds of beds to the existing supply. In Mirandela, the Miratua residence has already been completed and furnished. The building was created by converting a former hotel in the city centre and provides 60 beds for students. In the same city, another residence is more than 80% complete and is expected to be finished by the end of November. This facility will accommodate a further 120 students. The opening of the two residences aims to ease pressure on the local rental market, in a city where demand for housing has been high. The School of Communication, Administration and Tourism of the Polytechnic University of Bragança has around 1,200 students. According to Orlando Rodrigues, President of the Polytechnic University of Bragança, the new facilities should help reduce the existing pressure on housing supply for students. Bragança prepares largest residence In the city of Bragança, the largest university residence in the project is also nearing completion. The building will have capacity for 200 beds and is expected to be inaugurated by the end of September. The works are practically finished, with only some interior and exterior work still to be completed. The connection to the electricity grid could, however, affect the planned timetable, as an intervention is still required on site. With this new student residence, the institution aims to increase available capacity and provide better conditions for those attending higher education in the city. Chaves to get 120 more beds A 120-bed university residence is also being built in Chaves. The project, linked to the School of Hospitality and Well-being of the Polytechnic University of Bragança, is likewise more than 80% complete. The institution expects all four residences to be completed by the end of 2026. Once operational, these facilities should help reduce pressure on housing supply for the student population. Investment exceeds €25 million The projects represent a significant investment in increasing student accommodation. The student residence in Bragança involves an investment of more than €9.6 million, with €7.4 million funded by the National Plan for Accommodation in Higher Education (PNAES). In Mirandela, the Miratua represents an investment of €2.9 million, with 90% of the funding provided by PNAES. The remaining residences, in Mirandela and Chaves, represent investments of €6.3 million and €6.7 million, respectively, with €9 million in funding from the programme. PNAES received additional funding through the Recovery and Resilience Plan. Despite the deadline for meeting the targets agreed with the European Commission having passed, the Polytechnic University of Bragança considers that the advanced stage of the works makes it possible to ensure the projects are completed.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Industrial investment increases pressure in Sines Sines is undergoing a period of major economic transformation, driven by large industrial projects that are expected to represent more than €20 billion in private investment. The increase in business activity is bringing new workers to the municipality and, with them, greater demand for housing. Against this backdrop, the Government intends to create a specific public investment plan to keep pace with the regions growth. The strategy is expected to cover several areas that are essential for the population, including housing, education, healthcare, nurseries, pre-school education and facilities for older people. The aim is to ensure that economic development is matched by adequate public service capacity. Housing is particularly important in this context, as rising demand has made it increasingly difficult to find available homes in the municipality. The property market feels the effects of growth Pressure on housing is already visible in local market prices. Rental availability is limited and prices are making it harder for families to access a home in Sines. Population growth helps explain part of this situation. Between 2021 and the end of 2025, the municipalitys population is estimated to have increased by more than 12%, equivalent to around 2,000 people. Demographic growth has not been matched at the same pace by the expansion of public services. For the municipality, this gap makes it urgent to find solutions for housing, as well as for areas such as healthcare and education. The shortage of housing could also affect how residents perceive the major projects arriving in the area. Economic development may be seen as an opportunity, but also as an additional source of pressure on the property market. Government prepares an unusual response The Government considers that the scale of investment in Sines justifies an approach different from the one usually applied in other municipalities. The areas specific circumstances are therefore expected to underpin a joint plan with the local authority. The response should seek to anticipate the needs created by economic growth, preventing shortages of housing and public services from limiting the areas ability to attract workers and new families. In addition to housing, infrastructure investment is expected to cover healthcare facilities, educational establishments and social support services. Creating suitable conditions will be crucial to keeping pace with the municipalitys expected development. Municipality calls for greater return from investment The local authority also argues that companies developing projects in Sines should play a greater role in creating new services and facilities for the population. The idea is to link private investment to mechanisms that can strengthen local capacity. One of the proposals is to revise the Local Finance Law, ensuring that the municipality can benefit more directly from the economic activity generated within its territory. The municipality has also suggested establishing local agreements with the companies behind the major investments. These solutions could help finance new infrastructure and respond to growing demand for housing. Despite its concerns, the local authority remains supportive of private investment in Sines. The priority now is to ensure that economic growth is accompanied by affordable housing and public services capable of meeting new needs.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction A coastline full of beaches and coves Among the Balearic Islands, Menorca has been gaining increasing popularity as a holiday destination. Although it is less well known than Majorca, it offers a combination of nature, tranquillity and beautiful beaches. The island has around 250 kilometres of coastline and more than 70 beaches and small coves. Many feature clear waters and turquoise-blue tones, surrounded by natural landscapes that make every stop special. In addition to the better-known beaches, there are more secluded spots where you can enjoy the coastline in greater peace and quiet. For those looking for a seaside holiday, Menorca offers options for different types of travellers. Discovering the island beyond its beaches One of the best ways to explore Menorca is to hire a car and travel around different parts of the island. Some beaches cannot be reached directly by road, so part of the journey has to be made on foot. The effort can be worthwhile. Trails often lead to small hidden coves where nature remains almost untouched. Other places can be reached by boat, allowing you to discover coastal areas that are inaccessible by land. This variety makes it possible to combine beach days with moments of discovery. Instead of staying in the same place throughout your trip, you can create a coastal itinerary and experience different landscapes along the way. Sun and sea to enjoy in summer The climate is another of Menorcas attractions. The island enjoys around 300 days of sunshine a year and, during summer, you can expect many hours of daylight for outdoor activities. These conditions are ideal for long days by the sea, coastal walks or relaxing in the coves. For those looking for a European beach destination, Menorca combines nature, good weather and a diverse coastline. The combination of crystal-clear beaches, quieter areas and natural landscapes helps explain the islands growing popularity. Menorca can therefore be an appealing alternative for anyone wanting to experience the Balearic Islands from a more peaceful perspective.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction A functional home starts with the layout Not all homes require the same effort to stay organised. The way rooms are arranged, the availability of suitable circulation areas and the efficient use of the available space can make a significant difference to everyday life. When looking at homes for sale, it is worth looking beyond the décor. A functional layout, without too many awkward corners or difficult-to-use areas, allows you to make better use of each room and reduces the places where objects tend to accumulate. Storage should also be considered. Built-in cupboards, spacious wardrobes, storage rooms and other storage solutions allow you to keep belongings out of sight and help maintain a sense of order. Fewer obstacles mean less work Certain architectural and furniture choices can make household chores quicker. Smooth, durable surfaces, for example, are generally easier to clean than materials with lots of textures, details or joints. The same applies to furniture. Wall-mounted pieces leave more floor space clear, making vacuuming and cleaning easier. In the kitchen, integrated appliances and closed cupboards can help create a more visually organised environment. In the bathroom, closed units offer a similar advantage. Instead of leaving products exposed on several shelves, you can keep them in a dedicated space, reducing dust build-up and clutter. Small spaces matter too A well-used entrance can prevent shoes, bags and other belongings from spreading throughout the home. A simple storage unit or dedicated area by the door can help keep everything in its place. Bedrooms can also benefit from practical solutions. Beds with built-in storage provide space for storing clothes from another season or items that are not used every day, without taking up additional room. If you are viewing homes for sale with a balcony or terrace, also consider how easy these areas are to maintain. The simpler the outdoor space is to use, the less work is generally required to keep it in good condition. What should you assess before choosing a home? During a viewing, try to imagine using the home during a normal week. Do not just check whether the property is tidy: consider whether its layout actually makes organisation easier. Think about where you could store the items you use every day, whether there is enough storage space and whether furniture can be arranged without restricting movement. Also pay attention to the materials and finishes. A visually appealing home may require more maintenance than it appears. So, before choosing between several homes for sale, consider the time and effort needed to keep each space in good condition. A truly practical home does not need to be spotless at all times. Above all, it should be designed so that organisation and cleaning become part of the routine without turning into a constant chore.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction A historic centre steeped in history Visitors to Antalya will find Kaleiçi one of the most interesting places to begin exploring the city. The old quarter preserves traces of the different civilisations that have shaped the region, with narrow streets, traditional buildings and charming squares. Hadrian’s Gate is one of the area’s main landmarks, standing out for its Roman architecture. Nearby, Hıdırlik Tower offers privileged views over the Mediterranean, while the old harbour has a more relaxed atmosphere, with boats and restaurants by the water. Another symbol of Antalya is Yivli Minare, a minaret associated with 13th-century Islamic architecture. The Clock Tower, near the entrance to the old town, completes the route through some of the area’s best-known landmarks. Konyaaltı combines beach and city life For those looking for the sea, the Konyaaltı area is one of the best options. Its long beach stretches along the coastline and offers views of the Beydağları Mountains, creating a setting where the blue of the Mediterranean contrasts with the surrounding landscape. The area also has a seafront promenade with restaurants, cafés and leisure spaces. Its location makes it easy to combine days at the beach with visits to other points of interest in Antalya. Mount Tünektepe is another option for enjoying the scenery from a different perspective. The climb offers wide views over the city, coastline and mountains, particularly appealing towards the end of the day. Antalya’s wilder side Just a few kilometres from the city, Antalya reveals a very different landscape. Kapuz Canyon is an alternative for those looking to escape the busier areas and experience the region’s natural surroundings. The gorge is characterised by rock formations, flowing water and small waterfalls. In some areas, the route can be followed along the riverbed, providing a refreshing experience during the warmer months. This proximity between urban areas, coastline and nature makes Antalya a versatile destination, appealing to those looking for relaxation, culture or outdoor activities. How to plan a trip to Antalya Antalya has its own airport and can be reached by air, including flights with a connection in Istanbul. To explore the city, it is worth combining different areas and setting aside time for both the historic centre and the coast. In Kaleiçi, accommodation ranges from traditional buildings converted into places to stay to boutique hotels. In Konyaaltı, larger hotels predominate, many of them close to the beach and seafront promenade. With heritage, beaches and nature concentrated within the same region, Antalya makes it possible to enjoy a varied trip without having to travel long distances.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Look at growth first A healthy plant tends to grow regularly, producing new leaves, shoots or flowers according to its species and the time of year. When this growth slows down for no apparent reason, there may be an issue with the conditions in which the plant is growing. Insufficient light, inadequate watering, unstable temperatures or limited space for the roots are some of the most common causes. Before changing your care routine, observe the plant for a few days and try to identify what has changed. The pot also deserves attention. When several plants share a space that is too small, their roots compete for water, oxygen and nutrients. Depleted soil can also restrict growth. Leaves can reveal the problem Changes in the appearance of leaves are among the easiest signs to identify. Their colour, texture and shape can provide clues about what your plants need. Yellow leaves may be linked to overwatering, poor drainage or a lack of nutrients. Brown or dry leaves, meanwhile, can result from insufficient watering, overly dry air, too much sunlight or excessive fertilisation. When leaves become very pale or lose their shine, the cause may be insufficient light or a nutritional deficiency. Dark spots should also be monitored, as they may be associated with fungi, bacteria, cold temperatures or excess moisture. Soft leaves, frequent leaf drop, weak stems, constantly waterlogged soil and the presence of insects are other signs that you should not ignore. Light, water and maintenance make a difference Every species has its own requirements, so there is no single care routine that works for all plants. Before choosing where to place a plant, check how much light it needs, its recommended watering frequency, the appropriate type of soil and its ideal temperature. Light exposure can also affect how a plant grows. When light always comes from the same direction, it is natural for stems to lean towards it. Turning the pot every one or two weeks can help distribute the light more evenly and encourage more balanced growth. Pruning is another important task. Removing dry, damaged or diseased leaves allows the plant to direct resources towards healthy parts and improves air circulation. It also reduces conditions that favour pests and diseases. When action is needed Fertilisation should be carried out in moderation. Without enough nutrients, plants may struggle to develop roots, leaves, flowers or fruit. On the other hand, applying too much fertiliser can damage the roots and cause brown tips on the leaves. However, not all plants that stop growing are necessarily unhealthy. Some species enter a dormant period during winter or at certain stages of their life cycle. In these cases, reduced growth and even some leaf loss can be perfectly normal. To check whether an apparently dry plant is still alive, gently scrape a small area of the stem with your fingernail. If you find green, moist tissue underneath, the plant is still alive. Flexible branches are also a more positive sign than completely dry, brittle stems. Regularly observing your plants allows you to spot changes at an early stage and adjust their care before the problem gets worse.
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