Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction In the real estate sector, where trust is one of the pillars of the business, having a secure and credible website is essential for attracting and retaining clients. One of the key elements to ensure this security is the SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate. But what is SSL, and why is it so important for your real estate website? Discover in this article how this technology can impact your business and protect your clients. What is SSL? SSL is a security technology that encrypts the communication between the website server and the users browser. When a website has an SSL certificate, the information exchanged between the user and the site is protected, preventing third parties from accessing or tampering with this information. This security is represented by the padlock that appears in the browsers address bar, next to the URL. For real estate websites, where sensitive data such as contact information, viewing requests, or even financial data is often collected, SSL is essential. Having SSL on your site not only protects your clients data but also conveys an image of professionalism and care. How do I know if I have SSL active on my website? When a site is protected by an SSL certificate, a padlock symbol will appear in the navigation bar, along with the “ https ” variation in the sites address prefix, such as: https://supercasa.pt/en-gb/noticias . Without the SSL certificate, only the letters “http” will appear, and when entering the site, you will receive a warning that the connection is not secure. Why is it so important to have SSL on your real estate website? 1 - Protection of clients data On a real estate site, users entrust you with important personal data. An SSL certificate ensures that all shared information , such as names, contacts, and other sensitive data, is encrypted and cannot be intercepted by hackers . Lack of protection can result in data theft, which can damage your agencys reputation. 2 - Credibility and trust Users are increasingly aware of online security. A site without SSL is often marked as “not secure” by browsers, which can deter potential clients before they even explore your offerings. Having an SSL certificate shows that you care about your clients security , reinforcing trust and credibility in your brand. 3 - Better performance in search engines (SEO) Search engines like Google prioritise secure sites in search results. Having an SSL certificate is one of the factors that influences your sites ranking, helping it to position better and attract more visitors. Without SSL, your site may lose visibility, hindering your ability to reach new clients. This means that in the absence of this certificate, Google will stop placing your site at the top of organic search results. 4 - Avoids browser warnings A site without SSL may display security warnings to visitors, indicating that the site is not secure. These warnings are enough to discourage a potential client from visiting your site , damaging your image and reducing your conversion rate. How to obtain an SSL certificate? Obtaining an SSL certificate is a simple and affordable process. You can get it, for example, through the eGO Real Estate CRM, and thus have the site and SSL certificate fully integrated with your CRM . After installation, your site will be identified with the “https” protocol, signalling to visitors that it is a secure environment. Its important to know that SSL certificates are not permanent, as their maximum duration is only one year, so you need to renew your certificate every year to keep it up-to-date and secure. Invest in your sites security and strengthen your business For real estate consultants and agencies, a secure site is not just a technical issue but a strategic tool to reinforce client trust and boost the agencys success. By investing in an SSL certificate, you will be protecting your users data, improving your search engine ranking, and ensuring a safe and professional browsing experience. Dont risk your clients security and your agencys reputation. Get SSL for your real estate website and benefit from having a secure, credible, and competitive site in the digital market. You can acquire an SSL certificate from the eGO Real Estate CRM , which, in addition to many other features, offers you the possibility of developing a site with state-of-the-art and secure technology , customised to your agencys needs, which will make it stand out in online searches.
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.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction A lifetime lease is a rental contract in which the tenant has the right to live in the property for their entire life, providing long-term housing security and financial stability. The main difference from traditional leases is the absence of an end date: the contract only ends upon the tenants death, at which point the property returns to the owner. Benefits for the Tenant Among the key benefits for the tenant are the security of staying in the property for life, without the risk of eviction or renegotiations. This arrangement is particularly attractive for elderly individuals seeking peace of mind and financial predictability. Additionally, the rent amount tends to remain stable, protecting the tenant from excessive increases over time. Benefits for the Owner For the owner, a lifetime lease offers a steady and long-term income source. Since the contract lasts until the tenants death, there is less concern about tenant turnover, which also reduces administrative and maintenance costs associated with finding new tenants. In many cases, tenants who opt for this arrangement tend to take better care of the property, as it will be their residence for an extended period. Tenant and Owner Obligations Despite the benefits, both parties have responsibilities. The tenant must pay rent regularly and maintain the property in good condition, performing minor repairs. The owner, on the other hand, is responsible for major repairs and structural maintenance of the property. Additionally, the contract must be respected throughout the tenants lifetime, with no possibility of unjustified eviction. Important Considerations Before signing a lifetime lease, both tenant and owner should pay attention to the terms, such as rent adjustments and the possibility of selling the property. If the owner sells the property, the new owner must honor the contract terms until the tenants death. Another point to consider is that, unlike other assets, a lifetime lease is not transferable to heirs. This arrangement can be a beneficial solution for those seeking stability and guaranteed income but should be carefully considered to ensure that both parties are aware of their rights and obligations.
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 approval process, it is crucial for foreign applicants to know the required 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 another document confirming the 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 business and income must be provided. 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 applicants financial capacity. Property Documentation: Purchase agreement 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’s cost, it is necessary to present proof of available funds. In addition to these documents, each bank may have specific requirements, so it is advisable to consult the financial institution directly for 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 all legal and financial aspects are properly handled. With the proper documentation and careful planning, foreigners can successfully navigate the mortgage process in Portugal and achieve the dream of purchasing property in the country.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The extraordinary tax applied to local accommodation owners has been officially eliminated. The measure, announced by the government, aims to ease the financial burden on property owners focused on tourism and encourage the maintenance and expansion of this sector. The extraordinary tax was introduced as a temporary measure to help address specific economic challenges. However, after a thorough review and consultations with stakeholders, it was decided that its removal would benefit the sustainability of the local accommodation market. The decision has been welcomed by local accommodation owners and industry associations, who argue that the elimination of the tax will help make the market more competitive and accessible, particularly at a time when many are facing economic pressures. Additionally, the government emphasizes that, with the end of this tax, it will be essential to monitor the markets impact and ensure that the quality of services provided to tourists remains a priority. The executive asserts its commitment to supporting the sector and ensuring that future measures are well-balanced to promote sustainable growth in local accommodation. Property owners should stay alert to new guidelines and regulations that may emerge to ensure compliance with current standards. The elimination of the extraordinary tax represents a significant step for the sector and an opportunity to revitalize the local accommodation market in Portugal.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction In a significant transaction for the Portuguese real estate sector, several student residences have been sold for a total exceeding 30 million euros. The deal, which involved the sale of multiple buildings located in strategic areas of major university cities, marks one of the largest recent investments in the student accommodation segment. The portfolio includes residences located in Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra, which have been highly valued due to the growing demand for university housing and the increase in enrollments at higher education institutions. These properties, offering modern conditions and services tailored to students needs, have attracted interest from both national and international investors. The transactions impact is significant for the real estate market, reflecting continued confidence in the strength of the student accommodation sector in Portugal. The sale not only underscores investors appetite for education-related assets but also highlights the importance of affordable and quality accommodation for academic success and student well-being. Industry analysts suggest that this transaction may drive new investments and initiatives to improve the availability of student residences across the country. The sale value also indicates the increasing valuation of the Portuguese real estate market, which continues to attract substantial capital despite global economic uncertainties. The management and operation of the acquired residences will now need to be adjusted by the new owners, who will face the challenge of maintaining the high quality and standards that made these properties so attractive. The transaction is a clear demonstration of the growing recognition of the potential of the student accommodation market 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 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 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 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 Portugal attracts millions of tourists every year with its rich cultural and historical heritage, reflected in its iconic monuments. Among the ten most visited monuments in the country are: Belem Tower - This emblematic monument in Lisbon is a symbol of Portugals maritime past. Jerónimos Monastery - Located in Lisbon, it is a remarkable example of Manueline architecture. Pena Palace - Situated in Sintra, it is known for its romantic style and vibrant colors. São Jorge Castle - Overlooking Lisbon, it offers a panoramic view of the city and its history. Porto Cathedral - This cathedral in Porto is an impressive example of medieval architecture. Batalha Monastery - A Gothic landmark in Batalha, celebrated for its grandeur and intricate details. Roman Temple of Évora - Also known as the Temple of Diana, it is one of the best examples of Roman architecture in Portugal. Convent of Christ - Located in Tomar, it is an important historical site of the Knights Templar. Mafra National Palace - A Baroque palace with a vast library and convent. Chapel of Bones - In Évora, known for its walls lined with human bones, offering a unique perspective on history and art. These monuments not only attract tourists from around the world but also serve as a testament to Portugals rich cultural and historical heritage.
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