Real estate is an industry in need of digital transformation, often slow to adopt new technologies and leverage AI’s potential. Simon Link and Sebastian Feit, the founders of Bleisured, are addressing this gap with their innovative approach. With a strong background in data science and technology, they are redefining the rental experience in Lisbon by offering a truly comprehensive and personalized service for both tenants and homeowners. Today, we delve into their journey and explore how Bleisured is bridging the gap between traditional real estate practices and the digital future.
What is Bleisured?
Bleisured is your partner for furnished apartments in Lisbon if you are planning a mid- to long-term stay. For homeowners, Bleisured offers a hassle-free way to generate consistent rental income. Bleisured maximizes property owners’ rental income with comprehensive property management, taking care of tenant screening, maintenance, and everything in between. For tenants, the company offers a wide selection of high-quality, fully equipped apartments in central Lisbon locations, providing you with a comfortable temporary home. Whether you’re new to Lisbon and searching for the perfect long-term apartment, a digital nomad needing a flat with dedicated workspace, or here on an extended business trip, Bleisured has the right apartment for you with flexible rental conditions. We take care of all the details so you can fully concentrate on your stay.
Bleisured aims to redefine the mid- to long-term rental experience in Lisbon. Can you tell us what inspired you to start Bleisured?
It all started with a series of visits from friends back home in Germany, while we were studying our Master’s in Lisbon, at Nova SBE. Our friends were drawn to the city’s lifestyle, the sunshine, and proximity to the amazing beaches aroud here – a welcome escape from the dreary German winters. We were living in an apartment in Principe Real at the time, and it became a bit of a hub for these visiting friends. But as more and more people wanted to come and experience Lisbon for themselves, we realized there was a real problem: finding them places to stay.
The short-term rental market, dominated by platforms like Airbnb, was geared towards tourists, not people looking for a month or two of “Lisbon life”. On the other hand, traditional long-term rentals were typically unfurnished and required longer commitments. We saw a real need for something in between – furnished, cozy apartments with flexible lease terms, perfect for remote workers, business travellers and anyone wanting to move to Lisbon, but without a long-term place to stay yet. That’s when the idea for Bleisured was born.
Can you tell us more about the concept of “bleisure”?
“Bleisure” is a trend that’s reshaping how people think about work and travel. It’s all about blurring the lines between business and leisure, recognizing that in today’s interconnected world, we can often work from anywhere. Bleisure travelers aren’t just tourists ticking off sights; they’re looking for a slower, more immersive experience, combining work with getting to know the place they’re at, at a deeper level.
At Bleisured, we understand the needs of this new kind of traveler. Our apartments are carefully curated to provide a comfortable and productive work environment, with high-speed internet and dedicated workspaces. But they’re also designed to feel like a home away from home, with stylish decor, fully equipped kitchens, and access to all the amenities that are needed for everyday life. We want our guests to feel like they can transition between work and exploration mode seamlessly, experiencing the best of both worlds.
How does Bleisured differentiate itself from other apartment rental companies in Lisbon?
We aim to stand out in the Lisbon rental market by providing a truly comprehensive and personalized experience for both tenants and homeowners. For tenants, it starts with understanding their individual needs–whether they’re seeking a productive workspace for remote work, a comfortable home base for an extended stay, or simply a stylish and convenient apartment to experience Lisbon. We offer a curated portfolio of hand-selected properties, all fully-furnished and equipped with high-quality amenities to ensure a seamless transition. But it goes beyond just the apartment itself. We believe in transparent communication, a smooth and efficient booking process, and ongoing support throughout the entire stay.
For homeowners, we offer a one-stop-shop property management solution, taking care of everything from furnishing the apartment, over finding and screening tenants to handling maintenance, ultimately maximizing their rental income. We strive to create a win-win situation where both tenants and homeowners feel valued and cared for.
What challenges did you face when starting Bleisured, and how did you overcome them?
Launching a business in a foreign country, especially when you have to do it all in Portuguese, definitely throws you some curveballs. Navigating the bureaucracy here, getting all paperwork sorted… let’s just say it was a steep learning curve, and we definitely had some moments where we felt a bit lost.
But that’s also part of what made it so rewarding. We had to immerse ourselves in the Portuguese way of doing things, build relationships with local partners, and really understand the nuances of the market. Finding reliable cleaners, maintenance people, lawyers – it all required a deeper level of communication and trust-building. And of course, there was the challenge of finding those perfect apartments that met our standards, which meant a lot of negotiation and legwork.
Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of how much we learned along the way. We embraced the challenges, sought out expert advice, and weren’t afraid to ask for help when we needed it. And of course, we leveraged technology to streamline our operations wherever possible. It was a journey of perseverance and adaptation, and I think those experiences have made Bleisured to what it is today.
What are some of the most rewarding aspects of running Bleisured?
It’s amazing to see how much Bleisured means to our guests. We’ve had people tell us how our apartments felt like a real home away from home. That kind of feedback is incredibly fulfilling.
We’ve had guests stay with us for a few weeks, a few months, even a few years! Some are here for work, others for a change of scenery, and many for a mix of both. It’s always fascinating to hear their stories and see how they’re experiencing Lisbon. Knowing that we’ve played a small part in their journey, by providing a comfortable and welcoming space, is really special.
And it’s not just about the guests. We’ve also built some fantastic relationships with our property owners. We’re committed to helping them maximize their investment while also providing exceptional service to our tenants. We know that managing a property can sometimes be a real headache, especially for those juggling it alongside busy lives and careers. That’s why we take care of everything, from finding reliable tenants and handling paperwork to dealing with maintenance issues – so our homeowners can relax and enjoy the benefits of owning a property in Lisbon without the stress. It’s about creating a positive impact for everyone involved, and that’s something we’re really passionate about.
What are your plans for the future of Bleisured?
Our immediate focus is on further expanding our portfolio of apartments in central Lisbon. We want to offer an even wider range of options across the different neighborhoods, catering to diverse needs and preferences. This expansion will also allow us to partner with more homeowners, helping them maximize their rental income through our property management services.
Efficiency is key to our growth. We’re committed to leveraging technology and data to streamline our operations and maintain a high level of service. This is especially essential to us as we’re coming from a Data Science background. We believe this tech-driven approach sets us apart from most traditional property management companies in Lisbon. Our agile team, combined with a robust tech stack, allows us to be really responsive and provide a seamless experience for both tenants and homeowners.
And of course, none of this would be possible without our amazing team. We’re incredibly proud of the dedicated and passionate people who make Bleisured what it is. Their commitment is what drives our growth and allows us to deliver exceptional service.
Photo by courtesy of Bleisured
What are some of the most interesting trends you are seeing in the rental market in Lisbon?
The rental market in Lisbon has undergone a big transformation in recent years. One of the biggest shifts we’ve observed is a growing demand for fully furnished, “move-in ready” apartments. This is particularly true for international professionals, digital nomads, and those seeking shorter-term stays. In the past, unfurnished apartments were the norm, but now people want convenience and flexibility. They want to arrive with their suitcase and start living immediately.
Another key trend is the increasing desire for flexibility in lease terms. People are no longer looking for just the standard one-year contracts. They want options for shorter stays, maybe three to six months, or even the possibility to extend their lease month-to-month. This reflects the growing trend of remote work and a more mobile workforce.
We’ve also seen a significant rise in the use of technology in the rental process. Platforms like Idealista are now the go-to for most people searching for apartments in Lisbon. While we’re not a platform ourselves, but an operator, we recognize the importance of technology and strive to make our processes as digitally enabled as possible. Of course, apartments are ultimately physical spaces, but we believe technology can enhance the rental journey significantly.
Looking ahead, I think we’ll see a growing demand for apartments that cater to specific needs, such as those with dedicated workspaces. At Bleisured, we’re committed to adapting to these evolving needs and providing a rental experience that’s both modern and personalized.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering starting a similar business in Portugal?
If you’re thinking about starting a business in Portugal, go for it! It’s an incredible experience, but also be prepared for a tough journey. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
- Don’t just skim the surface. Really dive deep into the local market. Understand the specific regulations for your industry, analyze your competitors, and identify any potential gaps or opportunities. Unlike in other more developed markets, in Portugal many industries can be disrupted if you just think value propositions and processes differently from the bottom up.
- Network with purpose. Especially the real estate sector is all about relationships, but it’s not just about collecting business cards. Actively seek professionals who specialize in your field and can provide valuable support. Building genuine connections with local businesses and suppliers is crucial.
- Learn the language (at least the basics). Even if many people speak English, making an effort to communicate in Portuguese shows respect and opens doors. It also helps you understand the culture and navigate everyday situations more effectively.
- Embrace the “slow and steady” approach. Things might not move as quickly as you’re used to. Be patient, persistent, and don’t be afraid to follow up. Building trust takes time, but it’s essential for long-term success in Portugal.
- Deliver exceptional service, every time. Word-of-mouth is powerful. Focus on exceeding customer expectations, building strong relationships, and creating a positive experience. This will help you stand out from the competition and foster loyalty.
What is your favorite thing about living and working in Lisbon?
It’s hard to put into words, but ever since I first came to Lisbon, I realized: this city just has a way of getting under your skin. It’s that mix of old and new that fascinates me – the rich history and at the same time, this innovative energy. My absolute favorite spot in the city is Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a viewpoint right in the heart of the city. The vibe there is just unique, especially at sunset with that breathtaking view of the bridge, the Tejo River, and the sky exploding with color. It’s pure magic. And of course, the food! The fresh seafood, the amazing pastries and fresh fruits and vegetables… Lisbon is a true culinary adventure.
But honestly, it’s more than just the sights and tastes. It’s the people and the lifestyle that really make Lisbon special. There’s a real sense of community here, a warmth and openness that makes you feel welcome from the moment you arrive. And the pace of life is just… different. More relaxed, more focused on enjoying the moment. I love that.
As an entrepreneur, Lisbon is incredibly inspiring. There’s a growing startup scene, a real sense of possibility in the air. It’s exciting to be a part of that energy and contribute to the city’s development. I feel incredibly lucky to call Lisbon home, and I love sharing this amazing city with our guests at Bleisured. It’s like giving them a glimpse into a different way of life, a chance to experience the magic of Lisbon for themselves.
Whether you’re seeking a stylish apartment or looking to get the most of your property investment, in a hassle-free way, Bleisured offers a unique solution tailored to your needs.
Visit https://www.bleisured.com to get to know the company.
Photos by courtesy of Bleisured
