A growing number of elderly homeowners in Portugal are selling their properties while retaining the right to live in them for the rest of their lives. The model was introduced in late 2024 by Empathia, a company founded by Pedro Almeida Cruz. It allows seniors to access substantial funds without leaving their homes.

In its first year, the company attracted around 1,000 interested clients, signed nearly 40 contracts and injected more than €4 million into the economy. Properties are valued at market price, with the economic value of lifetime residency deducted from the final sale amount. The average buyer discount is 31%.

Most clients are aged between 67 and 96 and seek additional income, medical funding or financial support for relatives.