Buying property in Portugal: a decision-led roadmap

1. Define the mandate and total cost

Set intended use, ownership horizon, funding and non-negotiables. Budget beyond the price: official guidance identifies IMT, stamp duty and ongoing IMI as relevant taxes. IMT depends on factors including value, location and intended use; current calculations should be confirmed with the Tax Authority or a tax adviser.

• Purchase price and financing
• IMT and stamp duty
• Registry, legal and technical costs
• Insurance, condominium and ongoing ownership costs

2. Verify before committing

The permanent land-registry certificate shows registrations in force and pending requests, and can evidence ownership. The tax record identifies the property and its taxable value. Independent legal and technical review should be completed before the buyer accepts contractual risk.

• Title, charges and pending registrations
• Planning, licences and authorised use
• Tax record and property identification
• Condominium records where applicable
• Condition, systems and required works

3. Contract and completion

A promissory contract is commonly used but its terms, deposit, conditions and remedies are legal matters. At completion, the transaction is formalised and the acquisition registered. Casa Pronta is an official service through which purchase and registration steps can be handled together.

• Use independent legal representation
• Do not rely on a translated summary of a binding document
• Confirm funds, taxes and completion documents in advance
• Retain signed documents and official payment evidence

4. After the keys

Registration is not the end of the project. Confirm utilities, insurance, condominium communication, tax records, maintenance responsibilities and a secure property file. Overseas owners should define who can respond locally when they are absent.