Nick Houwen

Nick Houwen is a visionary real estate entrepreneur whose passion, professionalism, and international outlook have made him a standout figure in the Algarve property market. As one of the co-founders of Casa Vista Realty alongside Jesse van der Heide and Luciano De Vries Nick has committed himself to reshaping how buyers, especially international clients, experience property acquisition in Portugal. From the outset, Nick’s mission has been clarity and trust. Recognizing that foreign buyers often face steep learning curves when dealing with overseas property markets, he and his partners built Casa Vista Realty to guide clients through each stage with transparency and expertise. Whether navigating legal documentation, construction options, or fiscal incentives, Nick ensures his clients feel confident and well supported. Under his leadership, Casa Vista Realty is now undertaking a bold project: the development of 30 modern townhouses in Ferragudo, just minutes from the sea. Each townhous...

When you come across someone like   Nick Houwen , you immediately sense a balance of passion, insight, and storytelling magic. As the by-line author of Top Things to Do and See in Ferragudo, Silves and Olhão ,  published by Casa Vista Realty, Nick projects not just the hallmarks of a skilled writer but of a person deeply connected to place, people, and what makes life rich. From the first moment you read his work, you feel that Nick isn’t merely chronicling destinations he’s curating life. He’s inviting readers into the rhythms of coastal Portuguese villages, into traditions, flavors, and landscapes that define a region’s spirit. That’s a gift. In his writing,  Nick Houwen  becomes more than an observer he is a guide, calibrated to see and to share what matters most. A Curator of Local Spirit In the piece on Ferragudo, Nick highlights traditions such as the Festa de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, a maritime procession rich with boats, music, and fireworks. It’s clear th...

  When it comes to purchasing a luxury property in the Algarve, Nick Houwen’s Algarve Property Buying Guide lays out a clear, confident path forward. This detailed guide crafted by Nick Houwen provides the essential legal steps, taxes, and practical tips that both EU and non-EU buyers need to navigate the process seamlessly For EU Nationals: Algarve Property Buying Guide Essentials Under Nick Houwen’s guidance, EU buyers are led through a structured, five-step process: Promissory Contract (Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda) : Secure your future home with a deposit (typically 10–30%) and lock in payment terms and deadlines. Legal Due Diligence : Engage a trusted lawyer to confirm clear ownership, uncover any debts or mortgages, and verify municipal licenses and planning permissions. Optional surveys for added peace of mind are recommended. Property Taxes & Fees IMT (Property Transfer Tax) : Progressive rates, e.g., around €9,000 for a €400,000 primary residence ...

In the dynamic world of real estate,  Nick Houwen  emerges as a voice of clarity, passion, and strategic foresight. Algarve Real Estate Market Update: Trends in Ferragudo, Silves, and Olhão ,  illustrates his deep understanding of emerging markets and his dedication to guiding investors toward lifestyle-first opportunities in Portugal’s Algarve region. Let’s explore how Nick’s insights reveal his strengths and why his content resonates so powerfully. Embracing Boutique Coastal Living in Ferragudo: A Signature Insight by Nick Houwen Ferragudo: Boutique Coastal Growth stands out as a compelling pillar in  Nick Houwen’s  market analysis. He paints a serene yet valuable picture of this once-quiet fishing village turned premium Algarve destination. With low inventory and high interest, Nick highlights how properties in walking distance to Praia Grande or the marina command rising prices in 2025. As an author, Nick conveys rare charm and precision he understands Ferra...

  From the first spark of curiosity at age 16 to leading a dynamic investment firm, Nick Houwen embodies the entrepreneurial spirit. His story is one defined by initiative, adaptability, and a passion for building from modest beginnings in hospitality to founding Houwen Holding LTD, a powerhouse of innovation and strategic investing. Nick’s journey began early, driven by a desire to establish a solid financial base. His first meaningful engagement was at a catering company, where he took on roles spanning customer service, hotel reception, and kitchen support. Beyond mere tasks, these roles sharpened his people management and problem-solving abilities. Notably, he progressed into leadership positions, guiding fellow team members a clear reflection of his innate leadership capabilities. Fuelled by ambition, Nick Houwen made the move from a small town to the vibrant city of Groningen, balancing his studies with continued work in catering. These early roles nurtured his entreprene...

Nick Houwen’s  journey as an entrepreneur started at the age of 16, and his story is one of hard work, perseverance, and a deep passion for creating meaningful businesses. From his first experiences in the hospitality industry to leading a diverse portfolio through Houwen Holding LTD, Nick Houwen’s path reflects a blend of ambition, practical wisdom, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact. Starting Small, Dreaming Big Nick Houwen  entrepreneurial story began in the hospitality sector, where he started working in catering and hotel management as a teenager. These early roles taught him the importance of precision, teamwork, and a customer-first mentality. It wasn’t just about the work; it was about understanding what makes a business succeed: strong operations, dedication to quality, and the ability to adapt quickly to challenges. Building Experience, Developing Leadership In those early years,  Nick Houwen  leadership began to shine. Whether managing teams or...