Property orientation has a measurable impact on resale value, rental performance, energy efficiency and year-round liveability in Tavira, yet it’s one of the most overlooked factors among international buyers.

This guide explains how south-facing and east-facing homes actually perform in the East Algarve climate, and which one suits different buyer profiles.

Why Orientation Matters More in Tavira Than in Northern Europe

Tavira has:

• 300+ days of sun per year
• very high summer solar gain
• mild but damp winters
• increasing demand for year-round living

That means orientation directly affects:

• internal temperature
• air-conditioning costs
• winter comfort
• terrace usability
• long-term resale demand

Winter performance (the biggest advantage)

From November to March, south-facing properties receive continuous direct sunlight throughout the day.

This results in:

• naturally warmer interiors
• lower heating requirements
• reduced humidity and condensation
• more usable outdoor space in winter

For year-round residents, this is the single most important benefit.

Apartments in Tavira with south-facing terraces consistently achieve higher winter occupancy and stronger resale demand for this reason.

Summer reality (the part many buyers underestimate)

In July and August:

• terraces can become unusable between 12:00 – 17:00 without shade
• internal temperatures rise significantly in properties with large glazed openings
• air-conditioning costs increase

This is why the presence of:

• deep terraces
• pergolas
• external shutters
• solar protection glazing

matters more than the orientation alone.

A well-designed south-facing apartment with shading will outperform a poorly designed one but without protection, overheating becomes a real issue.

Resale value in Tavira

For:

• permanent residents
• Northern European relocators
• winter-sun buyers

south-facing is still the most requested orientation.

It is particularly valuable in:

• modern apartments
• penthouses
• properties with large terraces

East-Facing Properties in Tavira

Summer liveability (a major advantage)

East-facing homes receive:

• morning sun
• natural shade from early afternoon onward

This creates:

• cooler interiors in peak summer
• comfortable outdoor dining in the evening
• lower cooling costs

For buyers who primarily use the property in July, August and September, east-facing terraces are often more practical.

Winter trade-off

From late afternoon onwards, these properties:

• lose direct sunlight
• cool down faster
• feel noticeably colder in the evenings

For full-time residents, this can mean:

• higher heating use
• less winter terrace use

This is why east-facing homes are generally less popular with permanent relocators.

Rental performance

For summer short-term rentals, east-facing outdoor space is often:

• more usable for guests
• better for evening occupancy
• easier to market for “al fresco dining”

This can positively impact:

• guest reviews
• occupancy rates in peak season

The Most Common Mistake Buyers Make

They focus on compass direction instead of terrace usability.

In Tavira, value is driven by:

• how many hours the terrace is comfortable to use
• whether there is shade in summer
• whether it gets winter sun

Not simply whether it faces south or east.

What to Check Before You Buy

Ask:

• What time does the terrace lose sun in winter?
• Is there external shading?
• Can a pergola be installed?
• Where is the main outdoor living area positioned?
• How exposed is the property to summer afternoon heat?

These factors have a direct impact on:

• running costs
• rental performance
• resale demand

Considering Buying in Tavira?

We help buyers compare properties based on:

• year-round liveability
• orientation and energy performance
• resale potential

If you’re thinking of purchasing a home in Tavira, get in touch with Compass Property Sales today.