Those looking for high-end housing value construction quality, complementary services, and support facilities – and Portugal meets these demands.Although an environment of economic adversity has boosted the country's recognition in this area – leading to the implementation of various programs to incentivize foreign investment, such as the Golden Visas and the Non-Habitual Residents Regime – our journey is already long and goes far beyond these initial initiatives.
The Algarve, always classic and pioneering, maintains its prominent position. However, in the last 10 years, Lisbon has gained international projection, equaling in popularity to other European capitals. Porto, for its part, has ascended in the ranking of the best cities in Europe, becoming an increasingly sought-after destination for housing in this segment. In addition to these, locations such as Cascais and Comporta have emerged as other preferred destinations in Portugal, a country that has established itself as a refuge for many investors and international residents.In the Algarve, the English, Irish, and Nordic continue to dominate. But the United Kingdom goes well beyond the South. With Brexit, new British buyers are choosing city center environments for primary or secondary housing.
The French also came, initially attracted by the incentive schemes, but they are currently one of the most active countries in purchasing this type of housing, with a distinct preference for rehabilitated old buildings and houses with a certain historical charm.In turn, Brazilians are establishing themselves as a significant presence in the Portuguese real estate market. The increasing instability in Brazil has driven a growing flow of buyers from this country. However, it is undeniable that the strong cultural ties play a crucial role, making Brazilians stand out as the main foreign community in acquiring luxury properties in Portugal. Their marked preference is for condominium residential models, especially in prime coastal locations like Cascais, where proximity to the sea is an additional attraction.
The United States also seems to have discovered Portugal. The political context has increased the flow of Americans seeking Europe, and in the Old Continent, many prefer our country. Proximity to the sea is especially sought after by buyers from Florida and California.But many more came, not only in search of refuge but also due to the increasing professional mobility. The Asian market was the first – still in the context of the Golden Visas – and today there are many completely diverse nationalities buying high-end real estate in Portugal. Due to the geopolitical situation, there is also a significant increase in buyers from Ukraine, Russia, Poland, Israel, and the Middle East. Additionally, Canada is emerging as a new promising market, not to mention the more traditional markets such as Italy and Angola.
We concluded with a particularly gratifying note. The Portuguese are becoming increasingly active in choosing their own country. If in 2023, they made 52% of the purchases in this segment, according to our internal ranking of transactions mediated by JLL, in 2024 it was already 65%. It is definitive proof that our country is an excellent choice for living.