Investing Talks
Name: Rui Barreira
Age: 45
Country of birth: Portugal
City of residence: Porto
Biographical note:
Rui Barreira has a degree in Civil Engineering from Instituto Superior Técnico and a postgraduate qualification in Hotel Management and an International MBA from Universidade Católica do Porto.
With more than 15 years' experience in the construction industry, he decided to move into the tourism sector, where he has specialised for the last 12 years.
In 2013, he founded Casas do Porto - Ribeira Apartments, a boutique local accommodation project in Porto.
Later, in 2017, he founded Experience d'Ouro, a DMC focussed on luxury travel in Portugal.
In 2021, he co-founded Invest 351, a boutique consultancy specialising in real estate investments, offering a one-stop-shop service for investors.
Can you tell us a little about your career path before joining Invest 351?
My career began in Civil Engineering, where I worked for more than 15 years managing major construction projects, both in Portugal and Angola.
However, I've always had an interest in property management and the tourism sector, which led me to found Casas do Porto - Ribeira Apartments in 2013 and Experience d'Ouro in 2017.
These experiences were key to developing an in-depth understanding of the property market and the profile of international investors.
"The premium residential sector, hotels and tourism-related assets continue to show strong appreciation.
In addition, the segment of senior residences is gaining relevance due to the ageing of the European population"
What motivated you to enter the property investment sector and, in particular, to become a partner in Invest 351?
The property sector has always been present in my career, from building large infrastructures to managing tourism assets.
During the pandemic, I identified a growing demand for investment opportunities in Portugal, both from national and international investors.
Invest 351 was set up with the aim of offering a specialised and personalised service for these investors, integrating consultancy, mediation and accompaniment throughout the investment process.
What challenges and opportunities have you encountered along the way?
The main challenge was to position Invest 351 in a competitive market, setting ourselves apart with a differentiated and personalised approach.
However, the great opportunity was to realise that Portugal continues to be an attractive destination for investors, whether because of its economic stability, quality of life or the potential for appreciation in the real estate sector.
How would you describe Invest 351's position in the market? What distinguishes it from other investment consultancies?
Invest 351 is a boutique consultancy that acts as a one-stop-shop for investors.
What sets us apart is our personalised approach, combined with in-depth knowledge of the market and a network of qualified partners.
More than intermediation, we offer strategic advice, helping clients to identify safe and profitable opportunities
What are the main services you offer and how do you help investors find opportunities in Portugal?
We offer a complete service, from identifying opportunities, due diligence, legal and tax support to post-acquisition investment management.
We work with both individual and institutional investors, covering different types of property assets.
What is the typical profile of investors looking for Invest 351? What attracts them to Portugal?
Our investor profile ranges from individual clients looking for residential or income opportunities to institutional investors who want to develop property projects and see us as a strategic partner.
What attracts them to Portugal is the quality of life, the climate, legal certainty and the potential for appreciation in the property market.
How has the company evolved and what are the plans for the future?
Invest 351 has been growing steadily, expanding its network of partners and diversifying its types of investment.
The future involves consolidating our presence in the international market, attracting more foreign investors and developing new projects in strategic sectors.
What is your view of the Portuguese property market today? Are there sectors or regions with greater potential?
Portugal continues to be an attractive destination for property investment, with Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve standing out.
In addition, emerging markets such as the Douro region and some inland areas are attracting the interest of investors.
What trends are shaping property investment in Portugal? Is the market still attractive to foreign investors?
The sector is being influenced by increased demand for sustainable properties, digitalisation of the market and growth in co-living and co-working investments.
In addition, the luxury market continues to attract foreign buyers.
What are the main challenges investors face when entering the Portuguese market? How does Invest 351 help them overcome them?
The main challenges include bureaucracy, taxation and identifying the best opportunities.
Invest 351 simplifies this process by offering a complete service that ensures a safe and efficient investment experience.
Are there any sectors or types of assets that you consider particularly promising for the coming years?
The premium residential sector, hotels and tourism-related assets continue to show strong appreciation.
In addition, the senior living segment is gaining relevance due to Europe's ageing population.
What advice would you give to anyone considering investing in Portugal?
Do a good due diligence, rely on local experts and choose investments that are in line with market trends.
For those who want to start a career in property investment, what skills are essential?
Knowledge of the market, negotiation skills, analytical ability and a good network of contacts are essential.
Would you like to leave a message for the stakeholders in the property sector who are with us at the Investing Talks at Invest 351?
Portugal continues to be a prime investment destination. Invest 351 is here to help investors make safe and profitable choices, contributing to a more dynamic and sustainable market.
