Updated: April 15, 2024
If you are looking to settle in the serene and picturesque landscapes of Portugal, then the Alentejo region is a true hidden gem that offers authentic Portuguese rural ambiance. However, buying or selling a property in Portugal will require the expertise of a real estate agent in Alentejo.
This stunning region with a low-density population offers Portuguese residents, expats, and tourists a serene lifestyle surrounded by expansive natural beauty and captivating architecture. Alentejo is renowned for its Mediterranean climate, a tranquility that’s second to none, and affordable accommodations compared to bustling cities like Lisbon and Porto. What sets this region apart is the authenticity found in the charming villages, rich culture and tradition, exceptional gastronomy, and some of Portugal’s finest wineries.
Bordering the Algarve to the south and Beira Baixa to the north, with Spanish borders to the east, Alentejo attracts expats and investors seeking to purchase affordable properties in the heart of the Portuguese countryside. Real estate companies or an experienced buyer’s agent like Goldcrest, can help with real estate mediation and accelerate the entire process, from finding the right property to finalizing the deal.
In this article, we guide you on navigating the Alentejo, Portugal, real estate landscape, explore the region’s housing market dynamics, and guide you on your journey to find reputable real estate professionals.
An Introduction to the Alentejo's Real Estate Market
Over the last few years, people from all over the world have been migrating to Portugal to work and live through opportunities such as the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa or enjoy their well-earned retirement on a Portugal D7 Visa.
Among them, individuals who are not particularly fond of the hustle and bustle of places like Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve region are steadily moving to interior areas of the countryside like the Alentejo. Portugal real estate in low-density areas offers fantastic investment prices and has high growth potential, with good opportunities to branch into hospitality and tourism. This has seen major interest from investors who are part of the Portugal Golden Visa program. Discover more on this topic in the Global Citizen Solutions article, Low-Density Areas in Portugal: Everything You Need to Know.
Alentejo Portugal real estate costs
As mentioned before, the Alentejo region’s real estate sector is one of the most affordable in the country. The average asking price for property in the Alentejo was €2,685 per square meter in 2023. Note that this is the asking price, and the sales price is often significantly lower than this. At times, the sales price can also be higher, but this is less common.
Alentejo is made up of charming historic villages and main cities like Évora -the region’s capital, Beja, Sines, Serpa, Estremoz, Elvas, and Portalegre. According to Numbeo, the average asking price for property in the city center of Évora is around €1,500 per square meter, while the price outside of the city center will be significantly lower and cost around €744 per square meter.
If you plan to rent a one-bedroom apartment in Évora, expect to pay around €500 per month. A three-bedroom apartment in the same area will cost you around €1,200 per month. But you must note that the rent prices of apartments will vary depending upon the location and size. For example, if you move toward the interior areas of Alentejo, prices will definitely drop.
With this said investors should also note that some properties on the Alentejo coast can be expensive. Luxurious properties in places like Comporta and Melides will have a significantly higher price tag than in other regions of the Alentejo. To learn more about the real estate sector in Alentejo, you can read our article: Alentejo Portugal Real Estate Guide.
Why do you need a real estate agent in the Alentejo?
Since the Portuguese market is highly competitive, it is always better to contact estate professionals with extensive knowledge of Alentejo real estate, experience working with international buyers, and the ability to find you the house of your dreams in your preferred location while factoring in your budget. An English-speaking realtor in Portugal can save you time and hassle in your search for houses to invest in.
A real estate consultant who can speak English can assist international buyers better with real estate mediation, navigating challenges, and understanding the financial and legal aspects of the buying process.
Expertise of the market
Whether finding the perfect property, negotiating the price, or addressing all formalities, a real estate agency will be with you every step of the way. Although hiring a real estate company may be expensive, it will provide you with peace of mind and ensure a smooth purchasing experience.
An experienced real estate agent will have access to a large number of properties in the area that are up for sale or available to rent. They should also have a clear understanding of the various property types that are available for purchase. Working with a real estate consultant can save you a great deal of money, effort, and time in the long run.
Navigating legal and financial processes
A real estate agency in Alentejo will provide clients with the following services:
- Completing all the paperwork needed to buy your property
- Contact and liaison with the seller of your property and lawyers
- Ticking off all the essential checklists associated with buying a property, especially checking if there is any debt attached to it.
- Reviewing if the property is a legal construction
- Checking and monitoring the owner/seller of the property to see if they have the right to put the property up for sale
- Finalizing the deal and signing of contracts
- Property management of investment purchases
Personalized property matching
During the property acquisition process, it’s important to work with experienced professionals that understand your needs. In contrast to traditional real estate agents in Portugal who work on behalf of the seller, Goldcrest operates exclusively as a buyer’s agent, devoted solely to advancing the buyer’s interests.
How to Find a Real Estate Agent in the Alentejo
A local Alentejo real estate expert will have in-depth knowledge of the local real estate market, have experience negotiating the best prices, and be able to navigate the rules and regulations for property purchases. A real estate agency with specialized expertise in Alentejo real estate will be able to give you sound advice on real estate investment in your ideal property, have the ability to sell your investment property, and provide property management services.
Identyfying your real estate needs
Whether you’re searching for an Alentejo real estate agent to secure a charming countryside home or are looking to secure a modern villa close to the coast, you should be able to find the services you require in the Alentejo region.
The first step is to clearly define your needs. Specify the details of your ideal home, including size, location, and style, to guide your search. Do you want to be by the coast? Close to a city? In the countryside? You should also consider proximity to healthcare, restaurants, and schools.
Searching for agents
Searching for the right agent for you can take time. Most agencies have an online presence so you si you can quickly get to grips with the services they provide and create a shortlist of potential companies. Following this you can get in touch with them to discuss your requirements and how they can assist you.
It is worth looking at the companies credentials and, if possible, seek referrals from friends, family, or acquaintances.
Evaluating potential agents
It can be difficult to asses potential real estate agents and it can be handy to jot down some key questions that will help you decide. We have created a detailed checklist to help you do systematic evaluation of key criteria to help you understand the scope of services a Alentejo real estate professional can provide and establish if your potential choice meets your unique requirements.
Criteria | Evaluation |
Language Proficiency | Do they speak English? |
Experience with International Buyers | Can they provide project data proving experience? |
Property Market Insight | Do they have an exceptional understanding of the Portuguese real estate market to provide expert investment advice and services? |
Focus on Real Estate in Portugal | Is their service focused on real estate in Portugal? |
Track Record of Excellence and Communication | Do they maintain contact and have a track record of excellence? |
Business Credentials | Do they have business credentials to share with clients? |
AMI License Number | Do they have an AMI license number? |
Alignment of Company Values | Do their company values align with your interests? |
Real Estate Agent versus Buyer's Agent
While working with a Alentejo real estate agency is important, you should be aware that real estate agents represent the sellers who are their main clients and earn a higher commission from larger sales. On the other hand, a buyer’s agent’s primary focus is not on selling real estate, but rather on exclusively representing you as the client. To help you understand the key differences between working with a buyer’s agent and a real estate agent, we have created a comprehensive guideline showcasing each option’s advantages and potential drawbacks.
Factors | Real Estate Agent | Buyer's Agent |
Work Scope | Facilitates transactions for various parties | Exclusively works for the buyer throughout the process |
Search & Selection Assistance | May present options, but not solely focused on buyer's needs | Focuses on finding options that suit the buyer best |
Representation | Represents the seller's interests primarily | Solely represents the buyer's interests |
Conducting Legal Checks | May overlook some legal checks for buyer's benefit | Ensures thorough legal checks for buyer's protection |
Language Assistance | Language proficiency may vary | Proficient in the buyer's language |
Negotiation | Represents seller's interests in negotiation | Negotiates exclusively for buyer's benefit |
Documentation Handling | May not prioritize all necessary documentation | Ensures all required documentation is in order |
Time and Cost Savings | May not optimize for time and cost efficiency | Saves time and money by focusing on buyer's needs |
Commission | Earns higher commission for higher sale prices | Does not earn based on sale price, focused on buyer |
Working with Alentejo Real Estate Professionals in Summary
Now that you know more about the real estate sector in Alentejo, discovered more about the costs you can expect for the property purchase or rental journey, and learned how to evaluate your buyer’s agent or boutique real estate agency in the Alentejo, take a look at the basic steps of the purchase process so that you can have an idea of what to expect and how to plan your steps ahead.
Step 1: Request an appointment to discuss your specific needs.
Step 2: Your agent will conduct a property search and arrange viewings.
Step 3: Once you have reviewed the properties presented by the agent and shortlisted the ones that meet your requirements, you and your agent can formulate an offer for the property.
Step 4: Shortly after the offer is accepted, your agent will assist with completing legal paperwork and other necessary formalities.
Step 5: It’s time to close the deal. Your buyer’s agent can help you with finalizing the legalities of the purchase, help you sign contracts and legal documents, and ensure you understand and agree with other aspects of the purchase.
Whether you are looking to buy in Alentejo, Lisbon, or elsewhere in Portugal, we can simplify your buying process. Book a complimentary call with Goldcrest to discuss your options.
Goldcrest: How We Can Help
Renowned for its professionalism, Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent in Portugal that can help direct your investments according to your needs. The experienced team at Goldcrest offers a high-quality service tailored for you. Whether finding the perfect property, finalizing the price, dealing with the property owner and lawyers, or sealing the contract, the team at Goldcrest will guide you through the entire process.
With many years of experience, Goldcrest has exclusive access to an extensive database that can help you discover the best property at the best price.
Frequently Asked Questions About Real Estate in Alentejo
How can I find a licensed real estate agent Alentejo Portugal?
The are a number of ways to find real estate consultants specialising in Alentejo real estate – by researching online, using a referral program for real estate investments, or contacting them directly. A licensed real estate agent in Portugal will have an AMI license number.
What are the services offered by Alentejo estate agents?
Real estate agents in Alentejo, Portugal, can offer the following services when you purchase Alentejo real estate:
- Finalizing legal paperwork related to your property
- Coordinating with real estate lawyers, the seller, and other involved parties
- Conducting thorough property checks to ensure it is free of any outstanding debts
- Verifying the legal construction status of the property
- Confirming the property owner and their legal right to sell
- Facilitating the drafting and signing of contracts
Is real estate expensive in Alentejo?
Compared to the capital city of Lisbon or the second largest city, Porto, real estate in the Alentejo region and even on the Alentejo coast is affordable.
Alentejo luxury real estate specialists will be able to assist you if you are looking for more exclusive properties. Melides and Comporta are two top locations to consider in the Alentejo for luxury buyers. Goldcrest have a proven record of assisting expats secure the most desirable properties in the country.
How can I find affordable homes for sale in Alentejo?
To discover budget-friendly real estate agents in the Alentejo, conduct thorough research on local agencies, compare pricing, seek recommendations, and interview several agents. Striking a balance between cost-effectiveness and expertise is key to choosing the right real estate agent for your needs.
How to find an expert real estate agent for Alentejo vineyards?
You will want to work with an agency that has experience working with expats to ensure you get a good price for the property. Goldcrest can assist you in shortlisting and choosing the perfect vineyard for you. You will also find many historic properties for sale in Alentejo. We can assist in ensuring you understand the regulations when investing in historic buildings in Portugal.
How to find the best real estate agent in Alentejo?
There are several methods for finding real estate consultants specializing in Alentejo real estate, including online research, checking credentials, or reaching out to them directly. Licensed real estate agents in Portugal are identifiable by their AMI license number.
How to find holiday homes for sale in Alentejo?
To find holiday homes for sale in Alentejo, consider consulting local real estate websites, contacting licensed real estate agents with AMI numbers, and exploring online property platforms. Following this, you can make a list of potential companies. Remember that working with a buyer’s agent can be a smart move. While real estate agents work on behalf of the seller, and will secure a higher commission for a higher sale, a buyer’s agent works solely on your behalf.
