A few years ago, during our search for adventure, we stumbled upon Viana do Castelo. As enthusiasts of kitesurfing, cycling, hiking, fine dining, and beach-going, this place offered everything our hearts desired: majestic mountains, waterfalls, white sandy beaches, and perfect waves. It was love at first sight.
A challenge becomes an opportunity
During our stays, we realized that rental homes did not quite meet our needs. Dirk, with his towering height of two meters, rarely found a bed in which he could comfortably sleep. This sparked an idea. What if we could create a place for like-minded adventurers? Thus, the idea for Yuna was born.
Dreaming of your own piece of paradise?
Here are our tips
Tip 1: Have patience
Obtaining a building permit (PIP) took us six months, and before we could actually start building with an official building permit, we were 14 months in. Patience is not just a virtue; it’s a crucial ingredient in the recipe for success.
Tip 2: Invest in expertise
From day one, we surrounded ourselves with experts: a lawyer, the MIMA architectural firm, and a reliable local contracting company. Each was carefully chosen based on skills, regional knowledge, and communication abilities.
Tip 3: Location, location, location
Our plot of land is ideally situated, not far from essential amenities like electricity and sewage. This not only saves costs but also makes life during and after construction much easier. However, we did not choose the most ideal place, namely on a mountain. Building on a mountain means that a lot of rock needs to be dug up, which poses its own set of challenges.
Tip 4: Plan your budget carefully
Always assume that you will exceed your initial budget. Even though you often negotiate a fixed price with your architect and contracting company, your desires may change, and certain decisions might suddenly seem wise to implement now rather than later. If you’re already maxing out your budget at the start, consider building a slightly smaller home to allow some financial leeway for unexpected expenses. Remember, the architect’s quote often excludes VAT, which in Portugal is 23% for building a house. You will also need to budget for accident insurance on the construction site, electricity costs during construction, and separate fees for permits. Additionally, keep in mind that purchasing land includes a transfer tax.
Tip 5: Embrace the culture and connect with neighbors
The Portuguese culture offers both challenges and charms. The warm hospitality and delicious local cuisine have enriched our project and softened our adventure. Building good relationships with the local community can significantly enhance your experience. By engaging openly with neighbors and local traditions, you integrate more smoothly into the community, paving the way for mutual respect and cooperation throughout your building journey. Moreover, make an effort to visit your new neighbors, share a meal with them, and maintain an ongoing dialogue. Living next to a construction site is often not pleasant, especially in typically quiet areas. Our experience shows that neighbors are incredibly warm and welcoming, often waving enthusiastically when we arrive. Our neighbors, for one, can hardly wait to take a dip in our pool once it’s ready. This ongoing engagement not only fosters good relations but also helps in navigating the daily challenges of construction with greater ease and support.
Tip 6: Enjoy every moment
Building your own home is a rare opportunity in life, a chance to shape your future surroundings in the most personal way. From purchasing the land to laying the first stone, each step holds a unique joy and significance.
Imagine the excitement of seeing your ideas evolve from paper plans to physical structures. Celebrate both the large milestones and the small details, such as choosing materials or watching the walls rise. Each phase is a testament to your vision and effort, weaving your hopes and aspirations into the very fabric of your future home.
Remember, you’re not just constructing a building, but creating a space that reflects your identity and values—a place that will hold memories and echo with laughter and life. Take the time to appreciate every moment of this journey, knowing that you are building not just a house, but a home.
Yuna: Where dreams come home
We have poured our hearts and souls into Yuna. Our mountain villa is your base camp for the next adventure. After a day full of activities, you can relax in one of our living rooms, take a refreshing outdoor shower, or dip in the pool while enjoying the sunset.
Are you inspired by our story or dreaming of your own adventure in Portugal? We’d love to share our experiences and tips. Want to know more? Send us a message! We look forward to hearing from you and perhaps even helping you realize your dream.
