1) Understand Your Budget & Costs

• Determine how much you can afford.

• Include additional costs: IMT (property transfer tax), stamp duty, notary fees, legal fees, and property registration fees.

2) Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

• Speak with Portuguese banks or mortgage brokers.

• Pre-approval shows sellers you’re serious and helps narrow your price range.

3) Choose the Right Location

• Research areas you’re interested in (Lisbon, Porto, Algarve, Silver Coast, etc.).

• Consider lifestyle, commute, services, future growth.

4) Work with a Real Estate Professional

• A local agent can help you find suitable properties, schedule visits, and negotiate.

5) Make an Offer

• Once you find a property you like, submit a written offer with proposed price and conditions.

6) Promissory Contract (Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda)

• Once accepted, both parties sign a “promissory contract.”

• Buyer normally pays a deposit (often 10–30%).

7) Due Diligence

• Your lawyer checks property status: registration, debts, planning permissions, boundaries.

8) Final Deed (Escritura)

• The final signing at a notary or registry office.

• You pay remaining purchase price and all taxes/fees.

9) Registration

• The property is registered in your name at the Land Registry.

Tips

✔ Always work with a local lawyer and translator (if needed)
✔ Visit neighborhoods at different times
✔ Consider resale or rental potential