Buying
A PROPERTY IN PORTUGAL
A smooth and rewarding experience with expert local guidance
- Is fully licensed and regulated by the Portuguese government (IMPIC). Is based locally and has extensive knowledge of your chosen area.
- Offers a comprehensive, high-quality property portfolio.
- Communicates fluently in your language.
- Has proven experience assisting international buyers.
At Compass Property Sales (License AMI 17591), we specialise in property sales predominantly in the Eastern Algarve, offering over 40 years of combined experience in the region’s real estate market. Our multilingual team is dedicated to making your purchase as straightforward and transparent as possible.
Below is an overview of the key stages involved in buying a property in Portugal.
01
Making an Offer
Once you’ve found the right property, we’ll help you prepare and present your offer clearly and professionally, ensuring all terms are well understood before anything is confirmed in writing.
02
Legal Representation
After the price is agreed — often subject to a property survey — Compass Property Sales will forward the Heads of Terms to both the buyer’s and seller’s lawyers.
The seller or seller’s lawyer will provide all relevant property documentation to the buyer’s lawyer, who will conduct due diligence to confirm clear title and check for any outstanding debts or encumbrances.
Once due diligence is complete, a Promissory Contract (Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda) is drafted.
03
The Promissory Contract
At this stage, both parties sign the Promissory Contract and the buyer typically pays a 10% deposit.
This contract also specifies the completion date and the terms of the sale, protecting both buyer and seller under Portuguese law.
04
The Final Deed (Escritura)
The Final Deed formalises the transfer of ownership. It is signed at a notary’s office on the agreed completion date and the remaining balance of the purchase price is paid.
If either party cannot be present, they may grant Power of Attorney to their lawyer to complete the transaction on their behalf.
05
Additional Costs
- Legal fees – typically around 1% of the purchase price.
- Property taxes, stamp duty and notary fees – generally between 7–8%.
- Optional property survey and mortgage arrangement fees, if applicable.
06
Final Steps
- Register your ownership with the Land Registry (Conservatória do Registo Predial).
- Update the tax records and utility accounts in your name.
Ready to Begin?
If you have any questions about purchasing property in Portugal or would like to begin your property search, please contact Compass Property Sales. Our team will be happy to assist you at every step of your Algarve property journey.