Discover Cascais: Portugal’s Hidden Gem of Real Estate Opulence

When it comes to luxury real estate in Europe, many people immediately picture dazzling apartments in the heart of Paris, expansive villas on the French Riviera, or exclusive plots on Spain’s Costa Brava. However, if you think you know all the prime locations for elite housing in Europe, think again. There is a place that surprisingly often falls outside these discussions, yet it does not fall short in luxury and beauty. This is Cascais, a small picturesque town on the Atlantic coast of Portugal.

Here, where stunning sandy beaches blend with rich history and culture, you will find a wide range of real estate options – from historic villas with ocean views to modern apartments right in the town center. All of this is set against a backdrop of magnificent nature, exceptional architecture, and, of course, incomparable Portuguese cuisine.

In this article, we will introduce you to the reasons why Cascais is considered one of the most attractive, and possibly underrated, luxury real estate markets in Europe. Whether you are looking for unique investment opportunities or simply dreaming of a home by the sea, this Portuguese town deserves your attention.

Enchanting Coastal Area

Cascais is not just a seaside town – it’s a coastal area that can cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. When talking about beaches, it’s hard not to mention well-known spots like Praia da Rainha or Praia do Guincho. The former is an ideal place for those seeking seclusion and romance. Small, cozy coves with beautiful sand and crystal-clear water give the feeling that you are on your own private beach. On the other hand, Praia do Guincho is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, such as windsurfing and kitesurfing aficionados.

Discover Cascais

But Cascais is more than just beaches. The local marinas are striking in the variety and beauty of yachts, and also offer a wide range of water activities. Imagine a day that begins with a yacht cruise and ends with a lavish dinner at one of the many shorefront restaurants, where the freshest seafood is prepared according to the finest Portuguese culinary traditions.

Discover Cascais

The diversity of coastal flora and fauna also makes this region unique. Numerous natural parks and reserves surround the town, providing excellent spots for hiking and biking. Golf enthusiasts will also find something to their liking here, as several world-class golf clubs with exquisite courses and stunning ocean views are located nearby.

In conclusion, the enchanting coastal area of Cascais will captivate even the most discerning traveler or investor. This town offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, high-class entertainment, and cultural heritage, making it an ideal place for real estate investment and simply a fantastic place to live.

World-Class Real Estate

In Cascais, there’s a deep understanding that luxury real estate is not just about a beautiful view from the window, but also about the quality of every brick, every interior detail, and every garden plant. A variety of properties are on offer here to meet even the most discerning demands.

Discover Cascais

Among the plethora of architectural styles, traditional Portuguese villas stand out. In these homes, modern architectural solutions blend seamlessly with classic elements. Spacious living rooms with fireplaces transition into magnificent gardens with pools, and, of course, offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Discover Cascais

If urban living is more your style, consider the luxurious apartments in downtown Cascais. Modern buildings are equipped with all the necessary amenities, from gyms and pools to smart home management systems. These properties often include underground garages, elevators, and even private cinemas.

Discover Cascais

For those who value an eco-friendly lifestyle, properties with “green” technologies are worth noting. Solar panels, water management systems, and energy-saving materials are no longer rarities but have become the standard for new homes in this area.

Every real estate property is designed not just for comfortable living but also as an investment opportunity. Thanks to high demand and stable economic growth, buying real estate in Cascais is not just an investment in a beautiful home but also a promising financial asset.

In conclusion, Cascais successfully combines the traditions of Portuguese architecture with the most modern trends in construction and design. This town offers world-class real estate that meets the needs of even the most discerning buyers and investors.

Exclusivity and Confidentiality

In an era of globalization and easy access to information, confidentiality, and exclusivity have become even more valuable attributes. Cascais is one of those places where these qualities are weighed in gold. The town and its surroundings offer unique opportunities for those who seek privacy without sacrificing comfort and quality of life.

Many real estate properties in Cascais are situated in gated residential complexes with round-the-clock security and surveillance cameras. These complexes often come equipped with their own gyms, swimming pools, and even golf courses, allowing residents to enjoy an active lifestyle without ever having to leave their “world.”

Discover Cascais

For the true connoisseurs of privacy, mansions are available in secluded areas of the town, where each property is surrounded by high fences and lush greenery. These homes are not only designed with comfortable interior spaces in mind but also take into account all the details necessary for ensuring confidentiality – from advanced “smart home” security features to separate entrances for staff.

Furthermore, Cascais has a low population density and an excellent natural environment, adding yet another layer of privacy. You can enjoy walks along deserted beaches or forest trails without worrying about your privacy being compromised.

Exclusivity and confidentiality in Cascais are not just words; they’re a way of life. Here, it is understood that a truly luxurious experience is impossible without these elements. Therefore, when you choose to invest in real estate in this enchanting town, you’re investing not just in bricks and mortar, but also in your own personal comfort, safety, and seclusion.

Best Investment Opportunities

Cascais is not only a dream for those seeking a high-quality and comfortable lifestyle, the town also offers exceptional investment opportunities in the real estate sector. Stable economic growth, attractive tax conditions, and a continuous influx of tourists make Cascais appealing to investors from around the world.

Touristic Potential

Thanks to its historical significance, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural life, Cascais is one of the most visited towns in Portugal. This creates fantastic opportunities for investing in tourist real estate – from boutique hotels to short-term rental apartments.

Reliability and Stability

The political stability and growing economy of Portugal make real estate investments relatively low-risk. Moreover, the government actively encourages foreign investors by offering various programs, such as the “Golden Visa,” which provides a range of benefits, including the possibility of gaining residency.

Variety of Properties

Discover Cascais

Investors can choose from a multitude of property types, each with its own advantages. Interested in investing in luxurious villas with ocean views? Or perhaps you’re drawn to more affordable apartments in the historical center, which are always in demand? Cascais has all this and much more.

Resale Opportunities

The demand for real estate in Cascais is steadily increasing, promising good prospects for resale. Additionally, the high standard of construction and finishing of these properties guarantees that your investment will not only retain but also increase its value.

Overall, Cascais offers ideal conditions for real estate investors who are savvy in the nuances and demands of the modern market. From outstanding natural resources and tourist potential to political stability and economic growth – every factor indicates that investments in this remarkable town will not only be profitable but also reliable.

Conclusion

Cascais is not just a picturesque town by the Atlantic Ocean, it’s also a location offering a unique set of opportunities in the realm of luxury real estate. The town combines everything that can make life truly exceptional: from exquisite architecture and luxurious residential properties to incredible natural beauty and cultural heritage. Cascais also offers excellent investment opportunities, enriching not only your life but also providing a secure outlook for the future.

If you feel that Cascais is the very place where you’d like to live, invest, or simply enjoy life, don’t miss the chance to consult with professionals. At our Roca Estate luxury real estate agency office in Cascais, you’ll be greeted by a team of experienced specialists who will assist you in making the best choice. We’ll offer options that perfectly match your needs and desires, and provide a full range of services, from consultation to transaction support.

Don’t miss the opportunity to realize your boldest dreams. Contact us today and begin your journey toward owning a piece of this amazing Portuguese paradise. We look forward to welcoming you at the Roca Estate office in Cascais!

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Get in touch

Dasha Ponomarenko
Analyst / Customer Manager

Market Analytics

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According to information from the Bank of Portugal, Portuguese citizens have deposited more money than at any time in the past 21 years. In July, the amount of new deposits reached €12.559 billion, double what it was in the same month last year. This is the highest level recorded since...

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All 15 apartments in a soon-to-be-rehabilitated building in Lisbon were sold within 48 hours, highlighting the city’s robust demand for luxury housing. Lisbon remains the city with the highest property prices in Portugal, with a nearly 4% increase in housing valuations over the past six months. This high demand is...

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According to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), the average cost per square meter of housing in Portugal reached €1,644 in the first quarter of this year. In Lisbon, the most expensive municipality in the country, housing prices have significantly increased and now exceed the national average by...

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Portuguese Construction Sector Shows Resilience with 3% Growth in March 2024 Amid Market Challenges

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FAQ

Investment opportunities

What kind of properties do you offer?
  1. Properties under development for buyers with patience to benefit from the price appreciation after the project’s completion.

     

  2. We offer land plots for residential and commercial use to those who want to maximize their profits from the full cycle of value-adding activity.

     

  3. Commercial properties are for those who bet on more stable and long-lasting relationships with corporate tenants.

     

  4. Income houses for investors looking for steady income streams from residential property tenants.
How do you provide the investment opportunities?

We offer personalized investment opportunities to our investors through a tailored investment newsletter. Each newsletter is customized to match the investor’s specific budget and aligns with their unique investment strategy.

What are the criteria for evaluating income house investment opportunities?
  1. Growth Markets: We identify areas experiencing robust economic activities, such as job creation, population increase, and rising GDP. Infrastructure projects like new transportation systems, schools, and hospitals indicate a region’s potential for growth, attracting more residents and boosting the rental market.

     

  2. Positive Cash Flow: The property should generate rental income that not only covers all operating expenses (mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and management fees) but also leaves a profit. Securing loans with low-interest rates and reasonable terms can enhance cash flow.

     

  3. Appreciation Potential: Properties in neighborhoods with growth potential or undergoing revitalization are likely to appreciate in value. The condition of the property and the potential for improvements (renovations, additions) also play a crucial role in its future value increase.

     

  4. Turnkey and Rent-Ready: We choose properties that require little to no refurbishment before they can be rented out. This ensures a quicker start to income generation. Properties should also meet all local building codes and regulations and have passed necessary inspections to avoid future legal issues.

     

  5. At or Below Fair Market Value: We conduct a comparative market analysis that helps assess the investment property’s value by comparing it to similar properties in the area. We identify motivated sellers or properties that have been on the market for a long time and may offer negotiation leverage, allowing purchases below market value.

     

  6. Risk Management: We evaluate potential risks, including market downturns, property damage, or prolonged vacancies, and devise strategies to mitigate these risks. This may involve insurance, reserve funds, or diversifying investment portfolio.

     

  7. Legal and Tax Implications: Fully understand the legalities of property ownership and management, including landlord-tenant laws and local regulations. Awareness of property taxes and potential tax benefits (deductions, depreciation) is crucial for financial planning and compliance.

     

  8. Exit Strategy: We develop a clear understanding of investors’ end goals (e.g., long-term rental income, property flipping). This strategy informs all decisions, from property selection to financing and management.
What are the criteria for evaluating land plot investment opportunities?
  1. Location and Zoning: The value of land is significantly influenced by its location and the zoning regulations governing what can be built on it. We look only for prime locations or areas poised for future development. Zoning determines the type of development allowed, and we aim for residential and commercial types.

     

  2. Growth Potential: We choose land plots in areas with strong growth indicators, such as population growth, economic development, and infrastructure projects, which suggest future demand for property.

     

  3. Accessibility and Utilities: We pick land with good access to roads, public transport, and essential utilities (water, electricity, sewage), as it is more valuable and easier to develop.

     

  4. Topography: The physical characteristics of the plot, including its topography and soil quality, affect its usability and potential development costs. We prefer flat land or land with gentle slopes that is generally less expensive to develop than hilly or flood-prone land.

     

  5. Environmental Restrictions and Easements: We are aware of any environmental protections or legal easements that could restrict the development or use of the land. This includes protected habitats, wetlands, or historical sites. We carefully choose land plots without anything forementioned.

     

  6. Future Development Plans: Information on planned infrastructure or commercial projects in the area can significantly impact the future value of land. We gather and analyze this kind of information to make meaningful decisions.

     

  7. Cost vs. Value: We carefully evaluate the purchase price against the potential for increased value. Land for development or likely to be rezoned for higher-value uses can offer significant returns.

     

  8. Exit Strategy: We understand how it’s better for investors to profit from the land purchase, whether by selling after appreciation or developing the land.
What are the criteria for evaluating new build investment opportunities?
  1. Builder Reputation: We investigate the builder’s track record, quality of construction, and reliability. Established builders with a history of delivering high-quality projects on time are preferable.
  2. Location: The property’s location is crucial. Look for new builds in areas with strong demand for housing, good schools, amenities, and transport links, which can drive up property values.
  3. Price Comparison: We compare the price of the new build with existing properties in the area to ensure you’re paying a fair price. New builds often come at a premium, so we ensure the extra cost is justified by the benefits.
  4. Warranty: We choose new builds that come with warranties (like a 10-year structural warranty). These can add value and reduce maintenance costs in the early years.
  5. Energy Efficiency: We choose new builds with high energy efficiency ratings and modern technical features that can be more attractive to tenants and buyers, potentially lowering operating costs and increasing attractiveness.
  6. Potential for Appreciation: We pick properties with the potential for appreciation based on location, quality, and market dynamics. Properties in areas expected to see growth in infrastructure and amenities offer higher appreciation potential and are on our radar.
  7. Rental Yield: We calculate the potential rental yield and compare it with other investments. Only properties with “working” math are on our list because this eases the execution of the exit strategy and may be beneficial for investors willing to get the “passive” rental income.
  8. Financing and Incentives: We look into financing options and any incentives offered by builders or their partnering banks, which can affect the investment’s affordability and attractiveness for investors.
  9. Exit Strategy: We choose properties that provide a clear and easily implemented strategy for maximizing return on investment, whether through long-term rental income or selling after appreciation (or both, by leasing while selling).
What are the criteria for evaluating commercial property investment opportunities?
  1. Location: Prime location is crucial for commercial properties. We look for areas with high foot traffic, good accessibility, and proximity to amenities if it’s retail or a desirable business district for office spaces, or a touristic hot spot if we’re talking about hotels.
  2. Tenant Quality: We carefully study the current situation with tenants and analyze our possibilities. Properties that can be leased to reliable, long-term tenants (e.g., national chains) offer more stable income streams and are primarily on our radar.
  3. Market Demand and Vacancy Rates: We investigate the local commercial real estate market for demand trends and vacancy rates. Lower vacancy rates and higher demand indicate a healthier market – and that’s exactly what we are looking for.
  4. Economic and Area Development: We look into the economic health of the area and any planned developments. Growth indicators include new infrastructure projects, population growth, and employment rates.
  5. Property Condition and Age: We evaluate the property’s condition and age, as these will impact maintenance costs and the attractiveness to tenants. Newer or well-maintained properties are often more desirable but we also consider other options if the math works.
  6. Zoning and Regulations: We ensure the property complies with local zoning laws and is not subject to unfavorable regulations that could affect its use or value.
  7. Financial Performance: We analyze the property’s financials, including income (rental income), expenses (operating costs), and net operating income (NOI). We look for properties with a strong NOI and potential for growth.
  8. Financing: We understand the financing options and conditions. Commercial properties often require larger down payments and have higher interest rates than residential properties, so the finance product should be considered carefully.
  9. Exit Strategy: Whether it’s selling after appreciation, refinancing, or holding long-term for steady income, we ensure the property aligns with investors’ investment goals and timeline.

Investment newsletter

What is your investment newsletter?

This is a tailored investment proposal newsletter that we send to each client who’s in the process of capital allocation. Usually, we send one investment opportunity each week or two (depending on the complexity of the request). To stop receiving it, you may just ask the customer service manager.

How does your investment newsletter look like?

We send a pdf file to any type of communication channel you preffer (email, whatsapp, etc.) with the following information that is well enough to consider if this property fits your interests:

  1. Property description
  2. Location description
  3. Market analytics
  4. Calculations breakdown
  5. Investment terms of the acquisition

Investment allocation

Can I participate in a deal with only a part of capital required to acquire the property?

Yes, you can. For this purpose, we propose certain investment opportunities to clients with similar investment preferences. We manage to form a sort of co-investment group where the participants may make a co-investment agreement and become partner-investors.

Who may be my partner-investors?
All our investors share our vision for transparency and “fair play” business ethics, and among them, we choose who may be a good fit as partner-investors based on similar investment preferences and goals.
What is the minimum investment amount?

The minimum real estate investment amount required in a co-investment scheme is € 250,000. If you are eager to acquire property on your own, the minimum amount should be € 1 million.

Holding of the investment

Do I need to do anything after investing?

No, you will only need to make the investment, and we will handle all the rest – from value-adding activities to selling the property or managing it to obtain passive income.

Do you provide any reports?
Yes, we provide monthly reports regarding the investment status with detailed information, and of course, our customer service is here to answer all the questions you may have on a daily basis.
Do you guarantee any return on investment?

No. And if some companies do – be careful. We provide you with viable and very probable scenarios how we consider things will go, which may, in fact, not happen. And this is something to remember – no one can predict the future.

Is it safe to invest in properties you provide?
Maybe the best thing many consider real estate’s main advantage is that the price almost can’t go to zero. Can the property market fall? Yes. Can the “black swan” fly by? Yes. Can we do our best to keep your investment safe? Yes, and so we do.

Management

Investment Terms

  • Minimum investment – € 250,000
  • Holding period – 1-3 years
  • Target capital growth – 20-40% (10-30% yearly)
  • Target passive income yield – 5% and more

Our Fees

Finding Fee
€1500 This fee is paid when the investor makes an individual request for a property. It does not apply to the properties we provide in our proposal list.
Deal Structuring Fee
0,1 — 0,5% This fee is paid if the deal needs a tailored investment vehicle, usually an LLC, for tax efficiency, liability protection, and transparency between partners. This fee does not apply if the deal goes straightforward without any such structuring.
Value-Adding Activities Management Fee
10% This fee is calculated as part of the total construction (reconstruction, refurbishment) cost.
Performance Fee
10 — 15% This fee is calculated as part of the gross profit. It is paid if value-adding activities were performed or/and managed by us. It is calculated based on the difference between the total investment cost and the current appraisal of the property made by an independent professional.
Exit Fee
5% It is the same as the brokerage fee when selling the property. This fee does not apply if the investor decides to keep the property for use or lease.