Can you provide an overview of Engexpor’s current presence both in Portugal and internationally? What are some noteworthy projects you’ve undertaken?

Engexpor was established in 1984, specializing in project and construction management, technical, and environmental advisory services in real estate. Our expertise spans various sectors including housing, offices, retail, hospitals, hotels, and industrial buildings. Presently, we operate in Portugal (Lisbon & Porto), Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique. Over the years, our portfolio has evolved across different segments – from banking expansions in the ’90s to shopping centers, offices, and, recently, industrial, residential, and hospitality projects. Notably, we’re engaged in significant office and residential projects in Lisbon and Porto, along with numerous standout hospitality and healthcare ventures across Portugal.

Amidst the pandemic, 2020 witnessed substantial real estate investments in Portugal. How did this impact demand for your services?

The residential sector has seen a notable surge in demand lately. Previously considered a tepid market, now it garners professional investment attention, driving much of our demand. Simultaneously, the commercial sector, particularly offices, has also experienced an upswing with several exciting projects emerging.

With evolving real estate standards, how has Engexpor adapted its services, especially focusing on sustainability?

As Portugal becomes an attractive real estate hub, investors seek credible and reliable information. Additionally, sustainability has gained traction, prompting us to enhance advisory services with Technical & Urban Advisory and Sustainability & Environmental Advisory segments. Our branch, DCS (Digital Construction Services), leverages digitalization, particularly BIM technology. BIM enables tridimensional designs, detects conflicts/errors in real-time, and centralizes asset information, improving building development and future management.

Could you elaborate more on the concept of BIM (Building Information Modeling) and its working mechanism?

BIM revolutionizes traditional 2D designs by offering a tridimensional perspective, enabling real-time conflict resolution. It provides a standardized digital model, centralizing information accessible throughout the asset life cycle from project design to operation.

How does the extensive licensing process compare to other challenges faced in real estate development from a project manager’s standpoint?

The licensing process in Portugal poses challenges, especially in cities like Lisbon & Porto, impacting project profitability. Excessive taxes, including the 23% VAT, add to construction costs. Licensing delay is primarily due to municipal inability to match the project boom. Additionally, workforce scarcity and rising raw material prices compound challenges in the construction sector.

What are Engexpor’s primary objectives in the next two to three years?

Our short-term goals include further growth across sectors, emphasizing residential, hospitality, and healthcare projects, with room for industrial expansion. We aim to bolster green energy projects in Portugal and enhance advisory and digital services. The market’s current high demand signals a promising future for us.