Thinking about buying a home in Portugal? The real estate market is a bit of a Wild West... Whether you’re considering a stone farmhouse, a seaside apartment, or a modern city flat, here’s what you need to know before you go.
IMT (Property Transfer Tax)
Rates vary depending on:
Price
Residency status
Property type
Expect: 1–8% depending on your situation.
Stamp Tax
A standard 0.8% of the purchase price.
Notary & Registry Fees
Usually €600–€1,200.
Mortgage Options for Foreigners
Portugal offers mortgages to non-residents with:
20–30% down payment
Terms up to 30–40 years
Variable or fixed rates
Annual Costs
IMI (property tax): 0.3–0.8%
Condo/HOA fees vary
Utilities: €100–€230/month
What’s New?
Golden Visa housing option gone
Market flat in Lisbon/Porto, steady in Alentejo and central Portugal
More regional banks open to expat buyers
Pro Tip
Get a buyer’s agent — not a seller’s agent — to protect your interests. And always verify if a property has legalized renovations before purchase. And, be sure the seller has clear title.