Exploring Life and Real Estate in Portugal with Andre and Marianne
Andre and Marianne, a couple with roots in Germany and Norway, shared their journey of buying a home in Portugal on a special episode of Portugal the Simple Life Podcast (Episode 21, Season 3, "My Home in Portugal").
Their story offers valuable insights into the differences in building standards, lifestyle changes, and the real estate process in Portugal.
Expectations of buying real estate in Portugal
Both coming from countries known for their solid construction standards, Andre and Marianne noted that the process of building a villa in Portugal not only met but exceeded their expectations.
During their chat with podcast host Dylan Herholdt, the Simple Life Home Buyers highlighted the sturdy construction and the inclusion of all the essentials in their new home, such as kitchen appliances, wardrobes, bathrooms, garage and even a private pool — a pleasant surprise that simplified their move.
The 'Simple Life Home Buyer' experience
Despite not having previous experience with Portuguese real estate, Andre and Marianne's experience buying a home was smooth.
They initially planned to buy an apartment but ended up purchasing a 'key in hand' villa after learning about new development projects sold by Portugal Realty.
The process was efficient, with the couple quickly making decisions and closing deals, highlighting the responsive and organized nature of their interactions with the local real estate professionals who are part of Leisure Launch Group and the Simple Life Home Buyer programme.
“I was not too nervous about the house because, with the drawings and the digital pictures, I could imagine it. (…) What we found in the process, in the last one and a half years when it was being built, was that we were very well taken care of. (...) Our Project Manager took pictures, answered our mails if we had questions. (...) and Bruno from Portugal Realty was always available on WhatsApp. (…) It was extremely good service and the service reflects also the quality”.
Discovering the simple life in São Martinho de Porto
The couple chose São Martinho de Porto to buy a home in Portugal because of its balance between urban amenities and natural beauty.
Surrounded by forests and near the city, this seaside village on Portugal's Silver Coast offers an unbeatable lifestyle connected to the ocean and nature.
Here, Andre and Marianne's daily life includes enjoying long walks in the morning in their village, experiencing the local cuisine, and integrating into their Portuguese community.
Another aspect that the couple appreciates is the welcoming nature of the Portuguese people. Despite language barriers, they found that locals were eager to communicate and assist. Their efforts to learn Portuguese are part of their deeper commitment to integrating into the community and enjoying their new life to the fullest.
As for expectations vs. reality, they were pleasantly surprised by Portugal's infrastructure, cleanliness, and the lush, green landscapes, contrasting with their experiences in other parts of Europe.
"If you travel with a bicycle or a motorbike, it's a little bit like a feast for the eye. You have nature, you have castles, you have old cities, and all these things... Even if we still like the beach, but the older you get you are more drawn to these things."
Listen to the full podcast episode here:
Or see the YouTube video:
"We were very well taken care of!"
If you'd like to join Andre and Marianne and also find a dream home with Portugal Realty, click below to book a no-obligation call! Charlotte, Dylan or Bruno will guide you through the process of buying property in Portugal, show you 360º video footage of the area and share their experience as Certified Realtors.
Let us know what time works best for you - We'll call you back!
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