The Portuguese Appeal to Kenyan Homebuyers

Wealthy individuals from Kenya are now showing interest in purchasing additional properties in Portugal, a departure from their previous preference for the UK and Dubai.

Motivated by a need to broaden their assets and purchase properties with greater gains and beneficial citizenship opportunities, more people are moving towards alternative investment options. Portugal portrays an appealing location, with asset values increasing by 87% in the last five years, establishing the foothold towards purchasing properties. For Kenyan investors, Portuguese real estate allows the opportunity to attain a second citizenship easily. This acclaimed status provides access to superior education, modern technology and an elevated standard of living.

Luxury-seeking Kenyans are flocking to Lisbon, seeking investment opportunities and exploring means to diversify their portfolios in more stable regions. Currency devaluation in Kenya spurs the frantic search for options, making owning property in Lisbon an attractive prospect. According to Mr Salgueiro, rising interest in Kenya has intensified the interest shown among the affluent for various types of investments within the region. Previously, wealthy individuals preferred choosing second homes in St Kitts and Nevis in the North American peninsula. Currently, they are looking to 'new' havens like Lisbon.

St Kitts and Nevis has become a popular destination for those in the technology and crypto industry seeking an inviting environment to invest and innovate. It has also gained recognition for its exceptional medical facilities and boasts an impressive 91 per cent high school enrollment rate. Interested Kenyan investors able to satisfy the necessary criteria and invest a minimum of Sh30.6 million to Sh45.9 million ($200,000 to $300,000) in property may acquire citizenship for themselves and their children, thereby conferring access to outstanding healthcare and educational resources.

Portugal has shifted its focus to drawing in African investors, although the investment costs are comparatively higher than other options. Nevertheless, Portugal's allure persists. Historically, it was Chinese buyers who dominated Portugal's real estate market. However, they have been superseded by Americans. In addition, South Africans have emerged as prominent African investors in Portugal's property industry.

Casa Capital's CEO, Trushar Khetia, accentuates the value of acquiring residency in Portugal. The residency permit grants individuals the same advantages offered to citizens (excluding voting rights). Kenyan-Portuguese individuals are free to travel, work, and reside within any European state. Additionally, they can pass on their citizenship to future generations without any tax implications.

In Portugal, prospective investors are presented with diverse real estate options. Their preferences and investment objectives will determine whether they invest in commercial buildings, apartments, or hotels. Opting for rental apartments will result in minimum returns of five per cent in the first year. Take, for instance, a two-bedroom apartment in Lisbon, which can be purchased for Sh83.3 million. When rented out on a short-term basis, this property can generate an annual income of approximately Sh2 million. Alternatively, a three-bedroom apartment can be acquired for just Sh109 million.