The Journey of Camilla Costa in Portugal
Camilla Costa, a 31-year-old Brazilian entrepreneur, has made significant strides in Lisbon’s real estate market. Originally from São Paulo, she moved to Portugal a decade ago to pursue a degree in architecture. Little did she know that her journey would eventually lead her to become the CEO of HillForte, a successful real estate consultancy firm.
From Architecture to Real Estate
After enrolling in an architecture program in Lisbon, Camilla was introduced to the real estate sector through her professors and involvement in various architectural projects. Her academic journey began in Brazil with international relations, providing her with a broad understanding of global politics. However, it was her shift to architecture that sparked her interest in real estate.
Overcoming Early Challenges
The initial years in Portugal were filled with challenges. Camilla recalls her first year as particularly difficult, as she adapted to a new culture and faced a steep learning curve in understanding the local business environment. “The bureaucracy here is a constant challenge, and the absence of a support network made it even tougher,” she reflects. Adjusting to Portugal’s different operational standards required resilience and flexibility.
A Fortuitous Mistake Leads to Opportunity
One notable incident during her early career encapsulates both the challenges and serendipity of her journey. Camilla once mistakenly led a client to the wrong property due to confusing street names. Surprisingly, this mishap turned into an unexpected opportunity. The client ended up appreciating the neighborhood and decided to invest in a property there. This experience underscored the importance of being adaptable and open to new possibilities.
Leadership in a Male-Dominated Industry
As a female entrepreneur and immigrant, Camilla has faced unique challenges in the real estate landscape. She emphasizes that being a woman in this field often means encountering skepticism and prejudice. She recounts the numerous times she experienced dismissive comments about her accent or was asked to speak to a ‘superior.’ Rather than being deterred by these obstacles, she has chosen to empower herself and those around her. “I transformed these experiences into fuel for my ambition and growth,” she says.
Building HillForte: A Real Estate Boutique
Three years ago, Camilla founded HillForte without external financing or co-founders, driven by her desire to fill a gap in the market. Her firm provides comprehensive assistance to both local and international clients throughout the property purchasing process. This includes everything from initial consultations to handing over the keys of their new homes.
Specializing in Golden Visa Programs
Through her previous experience in private equity, where she helped raise €75 million, Camilla identified a growing demand for Golden Visa services. She incorporated this into HillForte’s offerings, presenting clients with a curated portfolio of eligible investment funds and strategic legal partnerships. “Our aim is to expand our services while solidifying our presence in the Portuguese market,” Camilla explains.
Empowering Immigrants and Women in Real Estate
Currently, Camilla leads a diverse team that is primarily composed of women and immigrants. They work together to challenge the norms of a traditionally male-dominated industry. “Every day, we prove that we belong in this market and that we can build something significant in Portugal,” she asserts. Her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment not only strengthens her team but also enhances the services HillForte provides.
Looking Ahead
Camilla Costa’s journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and determination in the face of adversity. With her focus on expanding HillForte’s market reach and enriching the lives of those within her community, she continues to pave the way for future generations of women and immigrants in the real estate sector.
