With a weaker pound many people in the UK are now struggling to buy property abroad, but buying a property or renovation project in Central Portugal can still be within reach.  In these difficult "credit-crunch" times, property for sale in Portugal, particularly property for sale in central Portugal, still offers great value for money, even with the lower value of the UK pound.

Why buy a property in Portugal ? Well, the renovation projects for sale in central Portugal are still within many people's budgets and they offer advantages over living in the UK which will become relevant over the coming years. For example, most properties have

• Previously cultivated land which is fairly easy to get back into production – a real bonus when growing your own food.
• Mature fruit & olive trees. Our olive trees were fairly young but we still managed to collect enough olives for 15 litres of olive oil. Very rewarding work & good for you!
• Grape vines – most properties have grape vines which make good wine (with practice!) or grape juice.
• Their own water sources, such as wells, springs, water mines etc.. Your own water supply is another "must have" if you intend to be as independent as possible.
• Trees! Eucalyptus, pine & oak trees provide fire wood for the winter months.
• Sunshine! It's entirely possible to be off-grid and use alternative energy in this part of the world.

Renovation costs can be relatively cheap if you do some of the work yourself – building materials are plentiful and easy to find. There are many examples of renovated properties in the locality, with many done by the owners themselves. Have a look at some on the following page:

Buy a property with a half acre or more and you can grow your own veggies, keep a few chickens and your pensions or savings will go a long way. With oil prices starting to climb again and the UK in deep financial difficulties, now is the time to buy your piece of land and escape!

How do I know this escape is possible – because I did it myself! Six years ago I was stuck behind a desk in an office all day every day. Not any more though, now I work my own hours, am mortgage & debt free and have gained a lot of practical skills and knowledge. It is not always easy, English is not widely spoken and Portuguese is not an easy language to learn. It is life changing and challenging ……what are you waiting for? Have a look at our website and if you see something you like, come and have a look!