In 2023, Portugal witnessed a significant economic landscape, with inflation driving up house prices across the country. Additionally, access to mortgages became increasingly challenging due to soaring interest rates.  Against this backdrop, it's crucial to identify the most affordable areas for property investment, whether you're considering a relocation within Portugal or contemplating a move to the country for the first time.  So, where can you find the most budget-friendly real estate options in Portugal in 2024? Here are the 20 cheapest towns to buy a house in Portugal as o ..read more

Building a new home in a foreign country can be an exciting yet challenging project. When it comes to construction projects in Portugal, there are unique considerations and hurdles to overcome. From bureaucratic processes to selecting the right professionals, every step requires careful planning and execution. In this blog post, join Savvy Cat Realty as we delve into the process of building your dream home in Portugal, exploring each stage from inception to completion. Let's start by addressing one crucial factor: time. Patience is key when undertaking a construction project in Portugal, as i ..read more

The Municipal Property Tax (IMI) rates to be applied in 2024 have already been disclosed by the vast majority of the 308 Portuguese municipalities, and there are several updates and novelties to take note of this year.  Property taxes are a significant aspect of homeownership, and staying informed about changes in rates and regulations can lead to substantial savings. In Portugal, the Imposto Municipal sobre Imóveis (IMI), or Municipal Property Tax, is one such levy that directly impacts property owners. Let’s delve into the recent updates and strategies to potentially reduce your IMI bur ..read more

Are you considering a move to Portugal and wondering whether it's better to rent or buy? In this blog post, we'll delve into the insights shared by our very own CEO, Ana Caramujo. With over three years of experience in the real estate market, Savvy Cat Realty sheds light on the current state of the Portuguese real estate market and the pros and cons of renting vs buying. Understanding the Market In the last decade, rental prices have experienced a steady and substantial increase. This upward trajectory is primarily attributed to a surge in demand that surpasses the available supply, creating ..read more

Christmas in Portugal is a time for family gathering and celebration. From the cherished Consoada featuring traditional codfish to delightful sweets and the festivities stretching past midnight, each custom holds a piece of this country's rich history and culture. Join us in exploring just a few of the most well known Christmas traditions in Portugal! Consoada on Christmas Eve: December 24th in Portugal isn't just another evening; it's a momentous occasion known as Consoada. Families come together around tables adorned with an array of culinary delights. The star of the night? Bacalhau, the ..read more

The following collaborative article was written by Ricardo Jesus, Private Wealth Manager at Chase Buchanan, a leading firm renowned for its expertise in comprehensive wealth management and tax solutions. Chase Buchanan’s mission revolves around empowering clients to plan for their future and achieve their life goals through clear, unbiased advice and unwavering support. For more information, please refer to their website: ,https://chasebuchanan.com Discover Portugal's Non-Habitual Residency Program Portugal's Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) program has emerged as a beacon of opportunity for indi ..read more

The importance of Portuguese literature cannot be overstated, as it is intricately interwoven with the country's history and culture. It serves as a mirror reflecting the nation's evolution, its struggles, its moments of triumph, and its enduring traditions. In this blog post, we'll delve into the lives and works of five iconic Portuguese authors, each with their unique style and contributions to the literary field. These authors have played a pivotal role in not only capturing the essence of Portuguese society at their respective times but also in contributing to a universal dialogue about t ..read more

In recent years, the way we consume television has undergone a dramatic transformation, and Portugal is no exception to this global trend. With many options available, viewers in Portugal have a wide array of choices when it comes to accessing their favorite TV channels and streaming content. In this week’s blog post, Savvy Cat Realty explores the various TV services and streaming platforms available in Portugal, discussing both the traditional TV options and the rapidly expanding world of streaming services. Public-broadcast TV in Portugal In Portugal, the landscape of public-broadcast telev ..read more

Online shopping has become such an integral part of our shopping routines that we can no longer live without it! Navigating the world of online shopping and importing internationally to Portugal can definitely be a challenging task, especially if you’re buying from outside of Europe. On this blog post, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive guide that may help you understand importation procedures and grasping the nuances of online shopping in Portugal. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Savvy Cat Realty aims to equip you with all the knowledge you need to make informed decisions when ..read more

The year 2023 has been quite a rollercoaster ride for the real estate market in Portugal so far. Despite initial concerns about a potential bubble burst, the market has defied expectations and continued to experience rising demand and stable prices. However, recent policy changes, such as the end of the golden visa program, have introduced some uncertainty and instability, especially for the investment market. In this blog post, I’m going to take an overall look at the Portuguese Real Estate market in the past 6 months and how it reflects on the current situation. My name is Ana Caramujo and ..read more