Thinking about Portugal—specifically the Algarve? In this episode, Vanessa sits down with a Lagos-based real estate agent to break down what life actually feels like in Lagos (walkable, small-city vibe, west-coast beaches + sunsets), who this area serves best (families, community-seekers), and the trade-offs (Lagos carries a premium €€€).

We cover schools (Portuguese vs. international), rentals, when buying makes sense, how competitive the market is, and why representation in Portugal can be very different from your home country.

You’ll learn:

- Lagos lifestyle & vibe: compact, walkable, family-friendly, quick access to wild west-coast beaches.

- Schools 101: immersion in Portuguese vs. international schools—how families decide.

- Housing reality: typical rentals and why Lagos is among the Algarve’s pricier markets.

- Buy smart: timing, expectation management, and how sight-unseen deals are handled.

- Representation matters: how buyer’s agents work in Portugal.

Get help moving to Portugal. Connect with Vanessa Lopes: https://bit.ly/contact-vanessa-lopes

About Solena Global Living

Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live—and invest—with confidence.

Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving

Chapters

00:00 – Intro

01:00 – What our guest does: concierge for foreign buyers

03:50 – Why the Algarve (esp. Lagos): vibe, walkability, west-coast magic

07:56 – Family life & community: kid-friendly spaces, beaches, after-school

12:04 – Schools 101: Portuguese vs. international, language paths

20:51 – Rentals & availability: what’s on the market now

22:50 – Price context: new build vs. resale, sea views, Lagos premium

25:54 – How competitive is it? Readiness, rent-first vs. buy-now

27:39 – Buying sight-unseen & expectation management

34:37 – Do you need a buyer’s agent in Portugal? Differences vs. UK/Germany

37:15 – Pitfalls to avoid & how to mitigate risk

39:16 – How to get help + next steps