The government recently started excluding homes purely licensed as residential for Golden Visa investments in Lisbon. However, Branded Residences will continue to qualify as they come under commercial touristic licenses.

Although Branded Residences are popular in various other cities such as Singapore, Dubai, Miami and New York, they are relatively new to Lisbon. Martinhal Residences is one of the first projects to open in 2022.

Hassle-free ownership is quite important for those investing in Branded Residences as there is a hotel team around 24/7. Most of these investors wish to avoid repairs and problems in their apartment when they come to stay. Even those living in Branded Residences seek such benefits compared to normal condominiums – security, kids club, pools, restaurants, concierge services, 24-hour reception, and so on. Many investors cite having an onsite trouble-shooting maintenance team as one of the great benefits.

Investors also look for the reputation and quality of hotel operations, the developer and the architect behind the Branded Residences. Investors have cited that award-winning operators, developers and architects do make a difference in their investment decision.

The location within the city of Lisbon has to make sense for the investor. Riverside living, proximity to an international school, distance from the airport, proximity to shopping, access to public transport, and access to major highways are all important.

This first trimester of 2022 has revealed Americans to be the top investor in the Golden Visa. Developers of Branded Residences are also seeing this trend with US buyers as they understand the benefits of living in/ investing in Branded Residences homes.