Martina Lennon, Portugal’s Property Pioneer

Known for her professionalism and charismatic charm, this Irish expat started with an overseas trip and ended with a Real Estate empire based in Cascais.

What does your upbringing mean to you?

I come from a very big, happy family from the beautiful town of Durrow in Ireland, an hour or so from Dublin. It’s a small, close-knit community and has a great selection of good old Irish pubs! I was one of ‘only’ 11 siblings and am proud to have been called ‘Aunt’ many times over. I still enjoy returning home and catching up with people I grew up with, even though I left the area when I was a young adult.

When and why did you come to Portugal?

At 21 my intention was to travel the world, starting off in Vale de Lobo in the Algarve. I stayed there about a year, then moved to Cascais and never left! Even back then it was obvious Portugal held a special place in my heart.

What were the biggest challenges you faced?

Most things were a challenge back then! Bureaucracy was certainly a big one. Being a woman in business, especially a foreign woman, even more so. The simple task of opening a bank account used to be a nightmare, but clearly the benefits outnumbered the challenges and, looking back, it was fun learning along the way.

How did your love of Real Estate begin?

My introduction to Real Estate in Portugal was through the need for English-speaking people in the industry to help match individuals with properties. I’ll never forget the thrill of meeting the client, matching them with their perfect home and seeing the look of happiness on their faces when they found it. I simply loved it!

What inspired you to create MAP almost 30 years ago?

Portugal was a very different country back then; Cascais was a quaint fishing village living alongside its more upscale neighbour, Estoril. I had finally learnt Portugal’s beautiful, but difficult, language and I better knew the people, their history, culture, and traditions. So, when my first son was just two years old, I saw an opportunity to start up on my own and took the plunge. As a result, in 1995, MAP – Martina Lennon Properties was born.

People come here for the lifestyle, the family-oriented community, a sense of safety and security, the tax benefits of the NHR, the absence of inheritance tax… the list goes on.

What is at the heart of your company?

At MAP we offer a unique and personalised selection of residential and commercial properties for all our international and local clients, along with property management services. We care for our clients regardless of their investment size, and we are with them every step of the way. Our motto is: “We are a small company with a great attitude”.

Any observations about the property market in Portugal since starting your career?

I have seen this country re-invent itself as a vibrant member of Europe, with Cascais and Estoril now major tourist destinations. It’s been a privilege to grow alongside these changes, and to see MAP, now one of the most solid real estate companies in the national market, be a part of this evolution. Also of interest is that Portugal has always held its place. A recent example is the global Covid pandemic, during which property prices not only held their ground, but substantially increased in value – a testament to the ever-rising international interest in Portugal.

What are the benefits for expats buying properties in Portugal in particular?

Apart from the great lifestyle, mouthwatering food, fabulous weather, neverending golf courses and outdoor activities – should we mention the wine? People come here for the lifestyle, the family-oriented community, a sense of safety and security, the tax benefits of the NHR, the absence of inheritance tax... the list goes on.

What is your vision for MAP, and yourself, for the future?

As MAP enters its 27th year, I’d like to extend a great big thank you to all who have accompanied me on my journey. To those who were with me at the beginning , to the professionals whose support has been invaluable, to the hundreds of amazing clients who have passed through our doors, and the incredible MAP team who work tirelessly to find the perfect home for our clients. My vision is to continue to provide the best service possible, always with the aim to evolve for the better, and to make friends along the way.

For more information:

W martinhalresidences.com

E info@martinhalresidences.com

Most things were a challenge back then! Bureaucracy was certainly a big one. Being a woman in business, especially a foreign woman, even more so.