Passports, Properties & the Power of International Markets - with Kelly Swanson

Host: Debbie Lariviere, Founder of Monter Coaching Guest: Kelly Swanson, Broker-Owner at Keys Global Real Estate

Episode Summary: What does it take to build a real estate business across borders—and across oceans? In this episode, Debbie sits down with Kelly Swanson, a U.S. broker who turned her curiosity for travel into a thriving international real estate career based in Portugal.

From Hawaii to the Algarve, Kelly shares how she navigated international licensing, built a cross-continental referral network, and opened her own brokerage abroad. She breaks down what's different (and what's not) about selling real estate in Europe, how GDPR and non-exclusive listings change the game, and what U.S. agents should know before taking their business global.

Whether you're a broker exploring international expansion or a curious investor dreaming of life near a Portuguese marina, this conversation reveals exactly how global real estate really works.

What You'll Learn:

• How Kelly transitioned from Hawaii luxury real estate to launching her own brokerage in Portugal

• Key differences between U.S. and European real estate systems (hint: no MLS!)

• How GDPR and local laws shape marketing and client communication

• The realities of buying, selling, and closing transactions in Portugal

• Why wellness, sustainability, and "proximity luxury" are defining Europe's high-end market

• What real estate professionals should know before going global

Spotlight on Strategy:

From Broker to Border-Crosser Kelly's story proves that international business isn't just about location—it's about relationships. By leveraging her Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designation and network through FIABCI and Realm Global, she built trust and opportunity long before ever setting foot in Portugal.

The Wild West of Europe Without a centralized MLS or uniform regulatory body, Portuguese real estate requires deep networking and due diligence. Kelly explains how properties are often non-exclusive, how buyer representation is evolving, and why trust and transparency are more valuable than any listing platform.

Luxury, Wellness, and Lifestyle Design From marina access and equestrian centers to homes built with natural materials like cork, Portugal's luxury market is rooted in wellness and sustainability. Kelly shares how global buyers are redefining "luxury" as access, experience, and ease—not just square footage.

Advice for Aspiring Global Agents Patience, partnerships, and preparation are key. Kelly encourages agents to build relationships, learn local regulations, and adjust expectations before ever representing a client abroad. "The way you do business at home isn't the same everywhere," she says. "Have patience, grace, and curiosity—it will take you further than any lead system."

Take Action: Considering expanding your business beyond borders—or buying your next property overseas? 👉 Listen to this episode to learn how to navigate licensing, relationships, and opportunity in international markets.

🔗 Connect: Kelly Swanson: LinkedIn | Keys Global Real Estate Monter Coaching: montercoaching.com Follow Debbie: @montercoaching

Listener Challenge: Research one international market that fascinates you—then find an agent to connect with there. 💬 Share this episode with a colleague who's thinking globally. 🗣 Leave a review and tell us: where in the world would you build your next business?