Finding the right property in Portugal can be an adventure, especially if you are buying abroad. However, if you do your homework, you’ll not only save time but also save money on your Portuguese property investment...

Regardless of whether you're starting this journey now, or have been looking to buy a house or plot of land for some time, finding your dream home in today's real estate market may seem overwhelming. Especially if you're buying abroad, in an unknown country and language.

The good news is that Portuguese real estate agents not only speak your language but also know the needs of international clients well. 

Here are some simple tips that will help you guarantee that buying a house in Portugal is a simple and enjoyable experience: 

1. Get to know the area

Getting to know the area where you're thinking of buying a property is the first step towards saving time and money.

If you're looking for a property for sale on the Silver Coast, why not start by reading some information we have on our website? Blogs about living on the Silver Coast are valuable sources of information. If you prefer videos, visit our YouTube channel to find out more about some of the most coveted places to buy property in Portugal.

We also encourage international buyers to spend time in the places where they’ll be visiting properties for sale. Sometimes an extra day is not only enough to get a better feel for each location, but also an opportunity to fall in love with the local lifestyle and delicious food:

At Portugal Realty, we are happy to share our experience and insider knowledge of the locations where we have properties for sale. As proud residents, it’s a pleasure to recommend the best restaurants, farmers markets, beaches and hidden back roads! 

2. Before you schedule your visit 

Before scheduling your visit, our team of international realtors will take the time to get to know you better. A friendly phone conversation is the best way to help you find the properties that are best suited for your family, budget and personal taste:

We have a wide selection of properties to choose from... but we know your time is limited! Our team will prepare in advance a preselection of properties suited for your needs, as well as information about the area you're interested in. 
 
We aim to plan your visit with attention to detail so that, when you arrive, you can focus your attention on what matters: finding your dream home! 

3. Which questions to ask 

Regardless of whether you want to buy a new build property or invest in a home ready to live in, you must decide what’s important for you and your lifestyle.  

For some families, it may be imperative to have public transport or a school within walking distance. For others, it may be having golf courses nearby or property with sea-views.

The most frequent questions asked by our clients include:  

• Should I buy an apartment or a house?
• What are the advantages of buying off-plan and how long will it take to build?
• How much does it cost to maintain a house in Portugal? Namely, costs with swimming pools, gardens and condominiums...
• Which air conditioning options are available? 
• Proximity to the amenities, shops or tourist attractions such as beaches or marinas?
• What are the potential rental yields for an investment property?
• Is the property suitable for my lifestyle, family and long-term needs?
• How is the year-round lifestyle of the location? This is especially relevant if you intend to buy a property for permanent residency. 
• What is the position of the sun on balconies, windows, swimming pool…? It may seem like a detail, but not in Portugal, where the sun shines over 300 days a year! 
  
  

4. Legal questions

Last but not least, there are the legal aspects. Finding the right property sometimes also depends on bureaucratic issues such as: applying for mortgage credit, special tax regimes for foreign investors or the legal requirements for buying real estate in Portugal. 

Although the process is quite simple, buying a property in Portugal is made easier with the support of a lawyer or a similar legal representative that speaks Portuguese and has knowledge of national regulations. If you need technical support with legal consultancy, financing, residence or property management, with our network of partners, we will be at your side throughout the process. Our goal is to guarantee you a simple and hassle-free experience, from our first “olá” to handing you the keys to your dream home in sunny Portugal! 

If you want to buy a property in Portugal or learn more about living in Portugal, give us a ring. 

Portugal Realty™ - Property for sale in Portugal