Alentejo, West and Center of Portugal: Promising territories for those who want to invest outside the major centers

As real estate prices in Lisbon and Porto continue to rise and competition in these areas intensifies, attentive investors have turned their eyes to less explored - but full of potential - regions such as the Alentejo, the West and the Center of Portugal. These territories not only offer more affordable prices, but also interesting opportunities for profitability and future appreciation.

In this article, we explore the characteristics, advantages and opportunities that make these regions promising choices for those who want to invest in the Portuguese real estate market with a long-term vision.

The Alentejo: Nature, authenticity and increasing appreciation

With its extensive natural landscapes, historic villages and peaceful lifestyle, the Alentejo has attracted investors looking for rural tourism, secondary housing or even tourist developments. Cities such as Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Beja, with great growth potential, are among the highlights.

In addition, projects such as the expansion of Beja airport and the investment in renewable energy infrastructures are contributing to the region's development.

Investment opportunities:

• Local accommodation and rural tourism
• Rehabilitation of historic buildings
• Agricultural or sustainable enterprises

West: Close to Lisbon, but with more attractive prices

The West region, which includes cities such as Torres Vedras, Caldas da Rainha and Óbidos, benefits from a strategic location - close to Lisbon - but with more competitive market values. The quality of life, good road and rail links and the growth in tourism have all contributed to an increase in interest in this area.

Highlights of the region:

• Good demand for long-term rentals
• Growing number of foreigners looking for permanent or seasonal housing
• Potential for development with new infrastructures and developments

Central Portugal: Diversity, accessibility and potential to be discovered

Central Portugal encompasses urban areas such as Coimbra and rural areas with enchanting landscapes such as Serra da Estrela. The diversity of options attracts investors in both permanent housing and nature or cultural tourism.

Cities such as Viseu, Guarda and Castelo Branco have shown sustainable growth, with urban rehabilitation projects, improvements in mobility and municipal incentives to attract new residents and businesses.

Opportunities in the Center:

• Urban regeneration in historic cities
• Mountain and spa tourism
• Student and senior housing

Why should you invest outside the major centers?

As well as the cost per square meter being considerably lower in these regions, there is less competition between investors and more scope for customizing projects. These areas are also increasingly valued by digital nomads, families in search of tranquillity and entrepreneurs in the tourism sector.

The Alentejo, the West and the Center of Portugal bring together the ideal ingredients for solid investments with great potential for appreciation in the medium and long term. The decentralization of real estate investment is a growing trend - and these regions are on the radar of those who know how to spot good opportunities before most.

If you're looking for opportunities that go beyond the major urban centers, IR Group is ready to support you every step of the way. We help you identify promising regions, projects with potential and effective strategies to make the most of your investment. Talk to us and find out where to invest wisely in Portugal.