Seed Real Estate didn’t start with deep pockets, corporate backing, or a perfect business plan. It started with frustration, a bold idea, and a strong belief that real estate could be done better. Today, it’s one of Portugal’s most innovative and successful real estate firms—but the road there wasn’t easy.
Two Friends, One Big Idea, and a Lot of Challenges
Eden Bouchoucha came from the world of real estate investment and sales. Semih Menda was a well-known TV commercial director. When their paths crossed, they realized the power of combining their two worlds—Eden’s sharp negotiation and sales skills with Semih’s eye for storytelling and marketing.
Back in 2020, they were working together at a small boutique agency. It was the middle of the COVID-19 crisis, and the industry felt stuck—old-school tech, zero transparency, and a management culture resistant to change. That’s when the idea for Seed Real Estate took shape. They believed there had to be a better way to do things—something more honest, more forward-thinking, and way more effective.
With just one employee and a small Lisbon apartment as their office, they launched Seed Real Estate. The early days were tough. Deals fell through, unexpected problems came up, and by 2022, they hit a breaking point. Something had to change. So they stepped back, regrouped, and rebuilt—with clearer goals, smarter systems, and a stronger sense of purpose.
“There were moments we thought it was over. But giving up wasn’t an option. We weren’t just building a company—we were proving real estate could be done differently.” — Eden Bouchoucha
“It was never just about selling houses. We wanted to build something real, something people could trust. The industry needed a shift, and we knew we had to lead it.” — Semih Menda
The Turning Point: From Struggles to Success
2023 changed everything. Seed Real Estate didn’t just survive—it found its rhythm. They refined their strategy, reworked their marketing approach, and raised their standards. But more than anything, they built a culture where people actually enjoyed working—one that encouraged creativity, honesty, and teamwork.
In an industry often stuck in its ways, Seed stood out. Their office became a place where agents felt empowered and clients felt understood. The company started setting new standards—not just in how they sold real estate, but in how they treated people.
The recognition followed:
Best Real Estate Agency (Single Office) – Portugal
Best Real Estate Marketing – Portugal
Best Real Estate Website – Portugal
Best Real Estate Agent – International (Semih Menda)
These weren’t just trophies—they were proof that their hard work was paying off. The international award for Best Agent was especially meaningful. It wasn’t just about Semih—it was a win for the whole team and for Portugal.
“Winning this award wasn’t just about me—it was about showing the world that Portugal has serious talent. We’re not just part of the market—we’re shaping it.” — Semih Menda
A New Chapter: Enter John Darling
At a key point in their growth, John Darling joined the leadership team. With a strong background in business strategy and operations, he helped take Seed to the next level. Together, Eden, Semih, and John became a powerhouse trio—each bringing something different to the table, all working toward the same goal.
The Real Secret: Sales and Marketing Done Right
One of the hardest things in real estate is building great agents. Seed didn’t just hire people—they invested in them. They trained them, mentored them, and created a team that thrives on collaboration, not competition. Their agents are multilingual, highly educated, and understand the needs of international clients. That’s part of what sets them apart.
The marketing side was just as important. They found the right creatives—people who understood the brand and could bring it to life. From cinematic property videos and viral social media content to a smooth, professional client experience, their marketing wasn’t just flashy—it actually worked. They weren’t just grabbing attention; they were closing deals and changing how people see real estate in Portugal.
“Marketing at Seed isn’t about selling fast—it’s about connecting with people. Every home has a story, and we do our best to tell it in a way that feels real.” — Seed Marketing Team
What’s Next? They're Just Getting Started
Even after all the growth, Seed Real Estate is just warming up. They’re expanding, opening new offices in key markets, and constantly finding ways to improve how they serve clients. With a strong team, a bold vision, and a lot of momentum, they’re not just keeping up—they’re leading the way.
“We didn’t just build a real estate company—we built a movement. And this is only the beginning.” — Semih Menda
For Seed Real Estate, the future isn’t just about selling properties—it’s about raising the bar, challenging the old way of doing things, and showing what’s possible when you mix passion with purpose
“We didn’t just build a real estate company—we built a movement. And this is only the beginning.” – Semih Menda
For Seed Real Estate, the future isn’t just about selling properties—it’s about transforming the industry, one deal at a time.
For more information, please contact Seed Real Estate on (+351) 927 492 212.
Thank you to The Portugal News for sharing our story. Seed began as a small dream, and today it’s a growing reality thanks to our incredible team, clients, and everyone who believed in us. Grateful for the journey — and excited for what’s ahead.
By eden from Lisbon on 11 May 2025, 21:15
Incredible articule and what a great agency Seed Real Estate.
By Benjamin from Lisbon on 12 May 2025, 15:50