Buying Land in the Azores - A Plot with a View
As you may have read in previous posts, I decided to go for a 'new build' in the Azores. Not for the faint hearted... really. Summer 2016 saw me visit a plot with my agent and project manager. After having seen some projects in progress. I was offered an amazing plot of approximately one acre, overlooking the vistas of both Pico and Sao Jorge. The price for this prime plot was brilliant, and was being sold by a UK resident, as unfortunately they had split with their partner - so the cash was needed. I was able to speak directly with the vendor, and as soon as details where exchanged I bought the land with the assistance of my Azorean Solicitor.
A solicitor is very important - especially in Portugal, because, apart from anything else, building on the land is subject to very strict controls. These need to be pointed out and made clear for future development. In the Azores things are even tighter, as the local authorities want buildings on existing 'ruins' and not on agricultural land, which is at a premium.
After looking at the map and buildable area of the land (a small proportion of the plot) we agreed that building would be possible within certain limits and boundaries. So, a price was negotiated...
A speedy UK bank transfer concluded the deal; no need for international payments at this stage, since the seller was based in the UK.
The view from the Old Road towards Pico. Gorgeous.
My project manager paces the front of the plot on the Old Road ... the plot frontage is shown by the high wall and trees on the left.
Here's the view towards the village of Pedro Miguel from the plot (entrance just beyond the trees on the right).
Love those trees...but, as you will read later, for some of them, their days are numbered. :(
The land; picture taken later in the year, after the corn was harvested.
Off in the distance is the Island of Sao Jorge. Brilliant view which is protected from any further building in front. Not that the Azores will do high rise flats anyway!
The land will continue to be laid to corn, with the resultant crop going towards helping a local Horse and Donkey sanctuary.
Again the view from the top of the land, towards Pico this time.
Brilliant views of the channel between Faial and Pico. A nice tall tree shamelessly drapes itself over the vista. What do you want? Perfection?
The house is planned to be built elevated to these views, since there is a raised bank near the trees.So the view should be even more impressive..... and may even look over that damn tree!
Next up: Clearing the land....
