Engel & Völkers
  • 5 min read

Frequently asked questions

About buying real estate in Portugal

Aerial view of a coastal town with red-roofed buildings, sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and turquoise ocean under a clear blue sky.

Table of Content

  1. How does buying real estate in Portugal work?

  2. What legal conditions must be met before buying property in Portugal?

  3. How much does buying a home in Portugal cost?

  4. What taxes are involved with buying a home in Portugal?

  5. What kinds of real estate are offered for sale in Portugal?

  6. Where can I locate a trustworthy real estate broker in portugal?

  7. What are Portugal's prime real estate markets?

  8. How can I get a mortgage to buy a home in Portugal?

  9. What steps are involved in changing a property's ownership in Portugal?

  10. Are there any limitations on the purchase of real estate by foreigners in Portugal?

How does buying real estate in Portugal work?

To purchase property in Portugal, begin by identifying a suitable property and making an offer. If accepted, both parties sign a promissory contract and the buyer pays a deposit. The final deed is then signed in the presence of a notary. It is strongly recommended to work with a trustworthy estate agent and an independent lawyer to help you navigate the process smoothly.

Foreign buyers must obtain a Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF) and open a Portuguese bank account. The chosen property must also be registered with the local Land Registry and be free of legal issues. Some restrictions may apply in areas of high demand, so it's important to confirm all local regulations in advance.

How much does buying a home in Portugal cost?

On the Silver Coast, property prices typically range from €250,000 for smaller or older homes to €600,000 for larger villas. Luxury properties in premium locations may exceed €1 million. In general, the average price for a home falls between €200,000 and €350,000, depending on the location and condition of the property.

PROPERTIES IN SINTRA

Engel & Völkers Sintra

4+2 Bed Villa | Cascais | Ocean View

Alcabideche, Lisbon, Portugal

4+2 Bed Villa | Cascais | Ocean View

€3,200,000

  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 4 Bathrooms
  • ~248 m² Living area
  • ~275 m² Plot surface
4-Bedroom Villa | Cascais

Alcabideche, Lisbon, Portugal

4-Bedroom Villa | Cascais

€2,990,000

  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 4 Bathrooms
  • ~218 m² Living area

What taxes are involved with buying a home in Portugal?

Buyers must account for several taxes during the purchasing process. These include the Property Transfer Tax (IMT), Stamp Duty (0.8%), and the annual Municipal Property Tax (IMI), which ranges between 0.3% and 0.45% of the property's tax value. Tax rates may vary based on the property's location, value, and classification.

What kinds of real estate are offered for sale in Portugal?

Portugal offers a diverse range of real estate, including modern apartments, traditional townhouses, detached villas, and rural estates. Coastal properties in regions like the Algarve and the Silver Coast are especially popular among international buyers.

Where can I locate a trustworthy real estate broker in portugal?

A reliable real estate broker can be found through personal recommendations, online platforms, or by consulting associations such as the Portuguese Real Estate Professionals and Brokers Association (APEMIP). It's advisable to choose agents with local expertise and proven track records.

What are Portugal's prime real estate markets?

The most sought-after property markets include Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, and the Silver Coast. However, areas like Cascais, Setúbal, and central Portugal are also gaining popularity due to their charm, affordability, and increasing development.

How can I get a mortgage to buy a home in Portugal?

Foreign buyers are eligible to apply for mortgages in Portugal, typically covering between 60% and 80% of the property value. Mortgage approval depends on income and financial stability, and interest rates may vary depending on market conditions. Rates are currently higher due to broader global economic factors.

What steps are involved in changing a property's ownership in Portugal?

Ownership transfer involves signing a promissory contract and paying a deposit, followed by signing the final deed of purchase before a notary. After this, the new ownership must be registered with the Land Registry to complete the process.

Are there any limitations on the purchase of real estate by foreigners in Portugal?

While foreigners are generally allowed to purchase real estate in Portugal, certain restrictions may apply in areas of national interest or on agricultural land. It’s essential to consult with a local legal advisor to clarify any location-specific regulations before finalising a purchase.

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