Get in touch

Latest on the Construction Cost Index for New Housing: Prices Are Rising Due to Labor Costs

The latest data from the Construction Cost Index for New Housing (CCINH) indicates a continued upward trend in construction costs in Portugal as of February 2024. Notably, there has been a year-on-year increase of 2.2% in these costs, slightly higher than the previous month’s figures. This increment is primarily driven by a significant rise in labor costs, which have increased by 6.0%, despite a slight decrease in material costs by -0.7%.

For investors in the Portuguese real estate market, these figures suggest several key implications:

  • Rising Labor Costs: The significant increase in labor costs can impact overall investment returns, as higher construction expenses may need to be passed onto buyers, potentially affecting market demand and pricing strategies.
  • Material Costs Volatility: The slight decline in material costs offers a minor relief; however, the volatility in this area requires careful monitoring as shifts in prices can impact budgeting and project feasibility analyses.
  • Investment Timing: Given the rising trend in construction costs, timely investment decisions are crucial. Early engagement in projects or securing pre-construction prices could mitigate some of the financial impacts of later cost increases.
  • Long-Term Growth Potential: Despite the immediate cost pressures, the Portuguese real estate market continues to offer significant long-term growth potential. The demand for new housing, supported by economic stability and tourism growth, underpins a positive outlook for real estate investments.
  • Strategic Partnerships: Investors should consider partnerships or collaborations that can offer cost efficiencies or alternative construction solutions, such as sustainable materials and technologies that may provide long-term cost savings.

As we see, this latest data shows that the rising construction costs in Portugal, particularly the notable increase in labor expenses, place upward pressure on the overall real estate market prices. As construction companies face higher costs to complete projects, these expenses are typically passed on to buyers, leading to an increase in property prices. This situation is exacerbated by the current trend in labor costs, which have shown a significant upward trajectory.

Given this environment, it may be wise to consider making your investment decisions sooner rather than later. As labor costs continue to inflate, the initial costs of real estate projects are likely to rise further. Investing now could allow you to lock in costs before these increases take effect, potentially leading to better financial outcomes in your real estate endeavors. It’s a favorable time to act, ensuring you maximize your investment potential in this vibrant market.

On the other hand, if labor costs continue to rise without a corresponding increase in property demand, there could be a risk of an overheated market where prices surpass what buyers are willing to pay. This scenario might lead to a slowdown in real estate sales or reduced profitability for projects that have not locked in pre-inflation costs. Investors should remain cautious and strategically evaluate each opportunity, considering both current market trends and potential future shifts in demand and cost structures.

Construction Cost Index for New Residential Dwellings

Read More

Tourism Sector Shows Strong Growth in Early 2024

Based on the tourism activity data for February 2024, the Portuguese property market, particularly in the tourist accommodation sector, exhibits robust growth and resilience, making it an attractive prospect for real estate investors. The sector witnessed a significant increase in guests (+7.0%) and overnight stays (+6.4%) compared to the previous...

Read more...

Price Growth Continues Amid Declining Transaction Volumes

The latest data shows that in 2023, the Portuguese real estate market demonstrated resilience with a continued increase in house prices, although the volume of transactions showed a significant decline. The House Price Index (HPI) observed an annual growth of 8.2%, albeit at a slower pace compared to the previous...

Read more...
Whatsapp Envelope Linkedin Instagram Facebook Tiktok Youtube

Get in touch

Dasha Ponomarenko
Analyst / Customer Manager

Market Analytics

Tourism Sector Shows Strong Growth in Early 2024

Based on the tourism activity data for February 2024, the Portuguese property market, particularly in the tourist accommodation sector, exhibits robust growth and resilience, making it an attractive prospect for real estate investors. The sector witnessed a significant increase in guests (+7.0%) and overnight stays (+6.4%) compared to the previous...

Read more...

Price Growth Continues Amid Declining Transaction Volumes

The latest data shows that in 2023, the Portuguese real estate market demonstrated resilience with a continued increase in house prices, although the volume of transactions showed a significant decline. The House Price Index (HPI) observed an annual growth of 8.2%, albeit at a slower pace compared to the previous...

Read more...

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?
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).
  10.  
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.
  10.  

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.

Investment holding

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.

Quick Facts

  • Founded in 2020

  • Experienced management of 20+ years in real estate

  • 50+ HNW clients trust us with their real estate investments in Portugal

  • Operating throughout the country

Mission

We operate a real estate company dedicated to enhancing our clients’ wealth through investments in properties with high profit potential and low risk.

Investors working with us aim to preserve their capital while earning returns significantly above long-term inflation rates, through property appreciation and/or obtaining passive income.

Management

Why We

  • We provide weekly offers to our client base on an individual basis – we know exactly who wants what.

  • We offer only properties with high potential and moderate risk.

  • We provide detailed analytics for each investment opportunity.

  • We do thorough due diligence on each and every property.

  • We accompany you throughout the investment – from studying the potential deal to the exit.

  • We partner only with the best service providers in every local market.

  • Oftentimes, we invest along with our clients.
  •  

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.