François Coizy: the first international licensee
Since setting up in Almancil in 2015, Carlton International – Central Algarve has established itself as a benchmark in the Portuguese property sector. Our primary mission is to provide our clients with comprehensive and sustained support, whether buying, selling or renting properties.
At the head of this dynamic, François Coizy, our dedicated manager, plays a key role in the success of our agency. With his expertise and passion for human relations, he provides a service that is both efficient and transparent, guiding our customers through every stage of the property process.
Read his interview below, in which he explores the charms of the Algarve and details the successful alliance with Carlton International.
Tell us about your first contacts with Carlton International ?
I knew the Carlton International group by name, without really knowing its size and positioning. I wanted to give my agency, which was set up in 2015, an international dimension, so I contacted the group directly. From the outset, I really appreciated how attentively Philip WEIZER, the owner, listened to me during my first two-hour call! Ten days later, I was in his office.
Why have you chosen to develop as a player in the luxury property market ?
A number of factors contributed to this choice: the quality of the real estate on offer in the Algarve, the location of our agency in Almancil at the heart of what we call the Golden Triangle, and the changing demands of an increasingly demanding clientele with high purchasing power. Our region has everything it takes to meet the expectations of this discerning clientele: a high level of security for people and property, political stability, a very mild climate, a warm welcome from the Portuguese people, an advantageous standard of living and links to major European cities (London, Paris, Rome, Geneva, Brussels, etc.) just two hours away by plane from Faro international airport.
What made you choose the Carlton International brand ? How did Carlton International make the difference ?
The human factor was decisive. It’s essential to feel comfortable and at ease, both with your partners and with your teams. I was also attracted by the challenge of investing at the start of the Group’s international expansion. It fits in well with my entrepreneurial spirit.
Can you tell us about your current and future plans as a Carlton International Licensee in the Algarve ?
Our main objective in 2024 is to successfully position the agency in its environment, particularly with owner clients. Carlton International offers a new alternative for both selling properties and offering them for seasonal rental.
What sets the Carlton International brand apart from its competitors in the Algarve, and how does this benefit your customers ?
It stands out from the other brands because of its highly personalised, high-quality approach to service. It has a great deal of experience in the seasonal rental of luxury properties and has a large pool of international customers ready to come and enjoy a quality holiday in the Algarve.
Why did you choose the Algarve to set up your real estate business, and what specific characteristics does this region bring to properties ?
Coming from the Côte d’Azur, the Algarve was an obvious choice. This ‘Côte d’Azur’ of Portugal has all the qualities, but none of the faults! Here, there’s plenty of space, dream beaches, an ideal climate, no traffic jams, plenty of room to park, little or no aggression and much less stress. Properties benefit from all these advantages and represent a secure, long-term investment for investors.
What do you see as the advantages of being a licensee ?
There are many advantages: improved image, market positioning and credibility. The group is a source of synergies between the agencies and allows us to exchange experiences.
How do you see the future of the luxury property market in the Algarve and what trends do you foresee for 2024 ?
Generally speaking, luxury real estate is the market segment that suffers least from fluctuations in the international economy. Investor interest in the Algarve remains strong at the start of this year. The destination is increasingly popular with international customers, particularly from across the Atlantic. Proof of this is the opening of a direct Faro – New York route operated by United Airlines with 3 weekly flights from next May.
