A CONVERSATION WITH CHRIS...
“Sounds good, but what is the main difference between you and the estate agents”?
“Well firstly, I have been an Expat most of my life and therefore I have an understanding that the chosen property needs to have more potential than just a holiday home. In my experience, Expats often buy initially to rent out allowing the income to cover the running costs but then later they want to make use of the property for themselves with their family and friends. Finding properties that lend themselves to both rental potential and capital appreciation, whilst providing a family home is key. I will be with you all the way, helping not only find the most suitable property but providing the after sales services which are essential”.
“How do you source the right properties”?
“This is where the experience of 20 years living in the area is so important. I have an extensive network of trusted sources but these naturally need to be carefully filtered before being included on the website”.
If you are interested in selling a property suitable for Expats CLICK HERE and I will be happy to call you to discuss including your villa on our website.
“Are all of the properties in the Algarve”?
“Yes, currently I am concentrating on this area as the main focus for several reasons. It is a hard decision for many Expats returning full time to their home country. Most of us have lived in warmer climates and enjoyed an outdoor lifestyle. For this, the Algarve region of Portugal offers fantastic weather and more. The infrastructure is now excellent, for security better than most countries and we are never too far from restaurants, shops, golf courses and beaches. Also importantly their are many flights from the recently improved Faro airport to most European cities providing easy access for members of family and friends”.
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“I would like to come and see for myself so when is the best time of year and where should I stay”?
“The weather is good all year round, winters are mild with summers hot and sunny. For viewing properties I would recommend January through to July and September to November. Summer is busy with rental clients in occupation of many of the properties for sale so certainly best to avoid late July and August. There are a large number of hotels in Quinta do Lago, Vilamoura and Loule as well as private villa accommodation while searching for your ideal property. As required, transport can be provided from your accommodation for the viewings”.
“What is the buying process in Portugal and will I need a lawyer”?
“Once you have chosen the property and I have helped you negotiate the best possible price then it would be necessary to instruct a local lawyer from the panel selection. Why local? Well they know the area so the search can be carried out effectively and due diligence completely covered to safeguard the purchase. Your lawyer will draw up the promissory contract which when signed ( usually within 30 days) will give the completion date and with it a 10% deposit will be due. The completion can be anything from 6 weeks to 3 months from agreeing to buy when the balance is paid. Taxes and lawyers fees will come to around 8% of the purchase price”.
“Are there any tax advantages to buying a property in Portugal”?
“Yes, many Expats choose Portugal for that especially good reason! The family may love the weather but the financial climate is also excellent. The non Habitual residency scheme (NHRS) is worth looking into and there are details for you on the following links: https://www.blevinsfranks.com/download/tax-guides and non-habitual residents
“I have some more questions so could I call you and discuss”?
“Yes of course, for a longer more personal conversation by all means call me on my mobile (+351) 910 919 044.
Look forward to hearing from you soon, with regards,
Chris.