The latest “Portugal The Simple Life Podcast” episode features Dylan in a conversation with Amy and Jeff, a Canadian couple who bravely moved to Portugal’s captivating Silver Coast.
In this heartwarming installment of the ‘My Home in Portugal’ series, Amy and Jeff recount their journey of settling into their new Silver Coast home, sharing both the ups and downs, with plenty of moments to be grateful for.
From Canada to Portugal: Their Story Begins
A magazine article highlighting Portugal, the Silver Coast, as a prime retirement destination sparked Amy and Jeff’s interest.
Their meticulous research solidified their choice of the Silver Coast over other Portuguese locales like the Algarve, seeking the perfect middle.
“We wanted a balance, not constant heat,” Jeff explains. “Coming from Canada’s four seasons, we desired Portugal’s milder climate.”
Amy discovered Dylan Herholdt through Portugal Realty’s YouTube channel.
“I’m all about good vibes,” she says. “Dylan’s podcasts instantly resonated with us.”
Their initial interaction with Dylan further solidified their confidence. “He replied quickly,” shared Amy, “and things took off from there.”
Despite never visiting Portugal, Amy and Jeff, trusting the process, purchased a home after minimal Zoom interactions, including a consultation with a lawyer.
They decided on a modern apartment in Salir do Porto, a charming village on Sao Martinho do Porto Bay’s southern shoreline to relish retirement life under the warm Portuguese sunshine.
Taking the Plunge: Buying from Afar
Their friends and family were stunned by their leap-of-faith decision to invest in property on the other side of the world, without so much as seeing it.
“Were people questioning your sanity?” Dylan joked.
Laughing, Amy admitted, “Everyone asked if we were crazy!”
They call their collaboration with Dylan and Portugal Realty a worthwhile risk. Jeff shares his perspective, “We took a real plunge in working with you, and it panned out spectacularly.”
Jeff and Amy were stunned upon arriving from Canada; Amy said, “We drove into Sao Martinho and exclaimed, ‘Oh my God! We live here?! This is out of this world!'”
During their initial site visit the project was under development. The only thing viewable were the shell and the skeletal framework of a building. Despite this visible raw state: they both visualized the potential it possessed.
Witnessing their apartment’s progress into a beautiful living space, with quality finishes and impeccable craftsmanship, amazed them. “The build quality is exceptional,” Amy said, “It’s even greater than expected.”
They now appreciate and relish the dream that has become an everyday reality: fulfilling what this new space offers as it mirrors and embraces their dreams.
See more photos of this project:
A Heartfelt Portuguese Welcome
Amy and Jeff were touched by Salir do Porto’s beauty and the kindness of all the local Portuguese community members right after they arrived in the village.
Amy said that this, “Portuguese community has been remarkable to experience, so very heartwarming!” and continued, “We are truly touched, and enjoy their culture and wine! It comforts us!”
They cherish the comfortable climate, safety, accessible health services, and savings on expenses. Jeff explains, “We appreciate going out for dinner, enjoying drinks, wine, and a few beers for only almost 40 euros. At home, the same dinner experience is valued up to a couple of hundred dollars!”.
The simplicity and authenticity of life on The Silver Coast brings pleasure, where, together they both relish everything it has to offer from countryside walks to local treasure trips that include touring Nazaré and Óbidos.
Tips for Future Expats
Amy and Jeff advise individuals to know the possibilities Portugal holds:
- Partner with Professionals. Amy explained the importance in getting assistance from individuals with mastery in areas that include buying properties and visa applications..
- Follow your gut. Jeff explained that confidence and assurance are key in, “Finding guidance and counsel with individuals to trust, like Dylan and the team!”.
- Go for it They advise that even the risks are nothing in comparison to the possible rewards: “It’s worth it as the Silver coast is beautiful and Dylan has a team to always lean on and trust.”
Watch the Episode
Full podcast episode available here:
Begin Your Portuguese Chapter
Amy and Jeff provide a sense of hope, adventure and gratitude as their experiences offer inspiring stories for those that visualize the possibility of a richer quality of life, with simplicity, under the Portuguese sun.
For assistance in discovering your future move in sharing a similar experience as Amy and Jeff, connect with Dylan and a team of certified realtors. (Book a call by clicking here).
