buyer's Guide

The Buying Process

Investing in real estate has always been a very popular choice, and Portugal has emerged as a top destination for many international buyers.

buyer Guide

The Buying Process

Investing in real estate has always been a very popular choice, and Portugal has emerged as a top destination for many international buyers.

Portugal has a lot to offer

The country has a lot to offer: a great climate, picturesque landscapes, great food, and great culture. However, one of the deciding factors for many buyers is the politically stability and security the country has to offer. So beyond the quality of life you will find here, you will be investing in a safe country.

Surrounding yourself with the right partners on this journey is key to success. From legal representation to surveyors, mortgage brokers, insurers, FX companies contractors, etc., we have built a network of professionals over the years. We chose them solely based on their professional ability and reputation.

They are at our clients’ disposal when needed to make the process as stress-free as possible. Their expertise is invaluable in navigating all the various aspects of a property purchase.

The purchasing process is fairly simple, as long as you are well-informed and prepared.

Portugal has a lot to offer

The country has a lot to offer: a great climate, picturesque landscapes, great food, and great culture. However, one of the deciding factors for many buyers is the politically stability and security the country has to offer. So beyond the quality of life you will find here, you will be investing in a safe country.

Surrounding yourself with the right partners on this journey is key to success. From legal representation to surveyors, mortgage brokers, insurers, FX companies contractors, etc., we have built a network of professionals over the years. We chose them solely based on their professional ability and reputation.

They are at our clients’ disposal when needed to make the process as stress-free as possible. Their expertise is invaluable in navigating all the various aspects of a property purchase.

The purchasing process is fairly simple, as long as you are well-informed and prepared.

Purchase costs & financing

When looking at your budget, it is key to keep in mind the purchasing costs of the property. The purchasing cost includes the following:

  • Lawyer’s fee
  • IMT (“Imposto Municipal Sobre as Transmissões”). This tax is based on the purchasing price and ranges from 0% to 10%. The percentage is based on property price, type, and intended use and is due before completion.
  • Notary fees
  • Transfer fees
  • Mortgage stamp duty

 

We recommend budgeting between 8-10% of the property price for these expenses. If you need financing, it is advisable to explore mortgage options with a reputable local mortgage broker. By doing so, you can compare interest rates, terms, and conditions to secure the best mortgage for your needs. It is also a good idea to initiate this process as early as possible, as it can be time-consuming.

Purchase costs & financing

When looking at your budget, it is key to keep in mind the purchasing costs of the property. The purchasing cost includes the following:

 

  • Lawyer’s fee
  • IMT (“Imposto Municipal Sobre as Transmissões”). This tax is based on the purchasing price and ranges from 0% to 10%. The percentage is based on property price, type, and intended use and is due before completion.
  • Notary fees
  • Transfer fees
  • Mortgage stamp duty

 

We recommend budgeting between 8-10% of the property price for these expenses. If you need financing, it is advisable to explore mortgage options with a reputable local mortgage broker. By doing so, you can compare interest rates, terms, and conditions to secure the best mortgage for your needs. It is also a good idea to initiate this process as early as possible, as it can be time-consuming.

Purchase Process

Purchase Process

Property search

Property viewings can elicit both excitement and disappointment. Our responsibility is to conduct thorough research in advance to determine the property location (e.g. proximity to a noisy road, overall standing of the neighbourhood, and future developments) and identify any potential issues (e.g. registration status of part of the property).

Make an offer

When you find the property you like, we’ll help you make a strong offer and give you the best chance to secure it.

Promissory contract

If the offer is accepted and the property passes due diligence, you’ll sign a promissory contract (“Contrato Promessa de Compra e Venda”), also known as a CPCV. This contract makes the purchase legally binding. It is important to understand that until this point, both parties can choose to walk away. This contract outlines the terms of the sale, including the purchase price, payment schedule, and closing date. You’ll need to pay a deposit, typically ranging from 10 to 30% of the full asking price.

Final deed

The last step in purchasing your property is the signature of the deed, known as “escritura” in Portugal. This takes place at the notary office, and both the buyer and seller must be present unless they opt to give power of attorney to their legal representative. At this stage, all fees must be paid, and the remaining balance is settled with the seller. Once finalised, the property officially changes ownership.

 

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