The Azores, a stunning archipelago in the mid-Atlantic, has been attracting an increasing number of property buyers in recent years. With its lush landscapes, mild climate, and laid-back lifestyle, it’s easy to see why many are drawn to these beautiful islands.
Consisting of nine main islands, each with its own unique character and charm, the Azores offer a range of options for those looking to purchase property. Whether you’re seeking a quiet rural retreat, a modern city apartment, or a seaside villa, you’ll find something to suit your taste and budget in this unspoiled paradise.
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Location and Accessibility
The Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal, located roughly 1,500 kilometres west of the Portuguese mainland. Each of the nine islands has its own airport, and there are regular inter-island flights and ferries However, some islands are more accessible than others.
São Miguel is the most accessible island, with regular flights to the other islands, other European destinations, and even North America. Terceira also has a good number of connections.
Most of the other islands, however, are more remote. Some have flights to mainland Portugal, but most won’t have flights to other international destinations. To fly anywhere else, you will need to connect in either São Miguel or, most likely, mainland Portugal.
Islands Overview
- São Miguel: The largest and most populous island with a population of around 130,000, this island is known for its lush landscapes, Sete Cidades lakes, and Furnas hot springs. This island is the most popular with tourists, and has the most number of flights to Portugal and other international destinations, including North America.
- Santa Maria: The southernmost and sunniest island, known for its white sandy beaches and warm climate. It has flights to São Miguel and to mainland Portugal.
- Terceira: The second most populous island, with a population of just over 50,000, featuring the colourful UNESCO-listed city center of Angra do Heroísmo. Like São Miguel, Terceira offers a number of international flights, including to North America.
- Pico: Home to Portugal’s highest mountain, known for its volcanic landscapes and UNESCO-listed vineyards.
- Faial: Known as “The Blue Island” due to its many hydrangeas, home to the popular yachting destination of Horta.
- São Jorge: Known for its rugged coastline, unique “fajãs” (coastal plains), and delicious cheese.
- Graciosa: The smallest and least populous of the central islands, known for its picturesque windmills and quaint villages.
- Flores: Named “The Flower Island” for its abundant flora, known for its rugged beauty and stunning waterfalls.
- Corvo: The smallest and most remote island, known for its tranquil, unspoiled landscapes and close-knit community. With a population of around 400, properties rarely come up for sale here.
Property Market
The property market in the Azores has been growing steadily in recent years, driven in part by increased tourism and a growing interest from international buyers. However, prices remain relatively affordable compared to many other popular European destinations, including mainland Portugal.
The type of property available varies from island to island. On São Miguel, the largest and most populous island, you’ll find a mix of modern apartments, traditional town houses, and rural properties. The cities of Ponta Delgada and Ribeira Grande are popular spots for city living, while the rural areas offer more space and tranquility. For those considering a tourism-focused business, São Miguel is the most popular island due to its many attractions and international flights.
On the smaller islands, properties tend to be more rural in nature, often with large plots of land. Many buyers are attracted to the idea of owning a piece of unspoiled nature, with the potential for self-sufficiency and a truly off-grid lifestyle.
Buying Process
The process of buying a property in the Azores is similar to that in mainland Portugal, but there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind.
- Find a property: The easiest way to begin your search is on Portugalist.com/property
- Attend Viewings: Next, you should view the property you’re interested in (ideally several times).
- Make an offer: Once you’ve found a property you like, you’ll need to make a formal offer. Your lawyer can assist with this process and ensure that all necessary conditions are included in the contract.
- Sign the promissory contract: If your offer is accepted, you’ll sign a promissory contract (Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda or CPCV) and pay a deposit, typically 10-30% of the purchase price. This contract outlines the terms of the sale, including the completion date and any conditions that must be met.
- Complete the purchase: On the agreed completion date, you’ll sign the final deed of sale (Escritura Pública de Compra e Venda) before a notary. At this point, you’ll pay the remaining balance of the purchase price, along with any applicable taxes and fees, and receive the keys to your new property.
It’s not essential, but it can be a good idea to work with a buyer’s agent when buying property in the Azores.
It’s important to note that the buying process can take longer in the Azores than in some other parts of Europe, due in part to the islands’ remote location and the potential for additional legal requirements. It’s essential to work with experienced professionals who can guide you through the process and ensure that everything is handled correctly.
Finding service providers, whether lawyers or builders, can be challenging in the Azores, and it’s important to understand that things take longer here than they do on mainland Portugal.
Conclusion
Buying a property in the Azores is an opportunity to invest in a truly unique and unspoiled corner of the world. With their stunning natural beauty, welcoming communities, and relaxed way of life, these islands offer a compelling alternative to the hustle and bustle of mainland Europe.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retirement haven, a summer retreat, or a place to start a new chapter, the Azores have something to offer. From the lush landscapes of São Miguel to the rugged coastlines of Flores, each island has its own distinct character and charm.
Of course, buying property in a remote archipelago comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. It’s essential to do your research, work with trusted professionals, and be prepared for a potentially longer and more complex buying process than you might encounter elsewhere.
But for those willing to make the effort, the rewards of owning a piece of this Atlantic paradise are hard to overstate. With their unspoiled nature, rich culture, and welcoming communities, the Azores offer a truly special opportunity for those seeking a different kind of European lifestyle.
So if you’re ready for an adventure, ready to slow down and appreciate the simpler things, the Azores could be the perfect place to call home. These beautiful islands are waiting to be discovered – why not take the plunge and start your Azorean journey today?