Joanne,

Read my recent post about Portugal. There is much better value to be had elsewhere, in the Eastern algarve, close to the Spanish border. You will get far more property for your money, the area is developing, with new golf courses and facilities, the area appeals to families. There are English agents who will advertise your property, manage changeovers and everything else you need. I am not an agent, but recently spent a week in my friend's villa there; she lets it out in July & August (always full) and the returns cover the mortgage and all other outgoings for the year.Do some basic research on rental/demand before you invest anywhere,. These new complexes will promise you anything to get you to sign on the dotted line. If you buy a resale property you can ask to see the 'books' so you get an idea of real returns, not just projected returns, which, unless the complex is contracted to a holiday company are nothing more than wild, extemely optimistic guesses.