The Algarve has long been a magnet for international buyers, and new data confirms the trend isn’t slowing down. In the first quarter of 2025, overseas demand for Portuguese property remained strong, with buyers from France, Brazil and Switzerland leading the charge.

According to real estate portal Imovirtual, 67.83% of international views were focused on buying property, with only 32.12% aimed at long-renting. This shows a continued appetite for ownership among foreign buyers, a trend that’s slightly on the rise compared to previous periods.

French and Brazilian citizens alone accounted for 31% of all international interest, followed by Switzerland and Spain. The data suggests that many of these buyers may be returning emigrants or investors drawn by the region’s quality of life and lifestyle appeal.

While the Algarve has been consistently recognised as one of the top destinations to retire, Sylvia Bozzo, Marketing Manager at Imovirtual, highlighted that demand is not just driven by retirees.

“The data shows that international demand isn’t limited to pensioners or investors. A significant portion of views comes from working-age users, showing a rising interest in stable living and working conditions in Portugal.”

Among property types, 2-bedroom apartments were the top choice, followed by 3-bedroom and 1-bedroom, suggesting balanced preferences in space and affordability. Meanwhile, the luxury real estate market continues to thrive.

For Algarve homeowners, inchttps://www.algarvehomesales.com/contact-usreasing international demand may offer strong selling opportunities, while buyers face more competition for desirable properties. An experienced local estate agent like Algarve Home Sales can help; get in touch!