User Question 14:

Please give me some pointers so I can start looking at property in N. Portugal and SW France.

Claude's Response:

I've created a comprehensive property search guide covering both regions. The key insight is that your $800k budget puts you in an excellent position - you can afford substantial properties with land in prime locations without stretching financially.

My Strategic Recommendations:

Start with Portugal's Porto district - specifically towns like Amarante or Penafiel. You get the best combination of:

• 30-45 minutes to Porto airport (easy UK access)
• Excellent healthcare access
• Beautiful Douro valley setting
• Properties with substantial land in your budget
• Good infrastructure but still rural feel

For France, focus on inland Languedoc - areas like Pézenas or Clermont-l'Hérault:

• Better climate than northern areas
• More affordable than coastal regions
• Established naturist culture nearby
• Still accessible to Montpellier airport

Practical First Step: Set up saved searches on [[Idealista.pt]] and [[LeBonCoin.fr]] with your specific criteria. You'll quickly get a feel for what's available and realistic pricing.

The Facebook expat groups I mentioned are goldmines - people share real experiences about areas, hidden costs, and which estate agents to trust or avoid.

Timeline Suggestion: Start your online research now, but plan your first reconnaissance trip for spring 2026. This gives you time to understand the markets and see properties in good weather when you can properly assess outdoor spaces and access.

Would you like me to help you refine the search criteria based on any specific preferences - like how much land you want, or whether you prefer rural isolation vs village community?