How to ensure a successful viewing trip when buying property in Portugal

How to Ensure a Successful Viewing Trip When Buying Real Estate Abroad

Buying a property abroad starts with one of the most important and exciting steps: the viewing journey. Although it sounds simple, a successful trip requires advance preparation. According to research by Your Overseas Home, the average home buyer takes only one or two trips before choosing that ideal property. Therefore, getting the strategy right is essential.

Here are seven often-overlooked factors that can make all the difference in your search.

1. Choosing the right time to travel

Although it is possible to visit properties at any time of the year, spring and autumn are the most recommended periods. Summer can bring excessive heat, high prices on flights and accommodation, and crowds of tourists. Also, in some countries, many real estate agents take August off, which can make it difficult to visit.

Spring and autumn, on the other hand, offer a more peaceful environment and allow for a more authentic view of life in the region. In addition, visiting outside the high season helps to evaluate the infrastructure of the place without the interference of intense tourism.

2. Plan ahead and contact real estate agents

Avoid leaving it to the last minute. Contacting real estate agents a few weeks before the trip allows you to create a personalized schedule of visits, according to your needs.

Be transparent about budget, deadlines, and expectations. Additionally, some agents may request proof of funds to ensure that you are genuinely interested in the purchase. Although it may seem like a rigid procedure, it helps to optimize time for both sides.

3. Consult with a local lawyer before traveling

Having an independent, on-site attorney from the start can be crucial to avoid pitfalls and understand all the details of the buying process. A good professional can advise on legal obligations and tax issues that may impact your decision, such as structuring the purchase if you are acquiring a property together with an unmarried partner.

Additionally, understanding the financial and equity implications before making any decisions can avoid any unpleasant surprises down the road.

4. Organize essential documentation

If there is a possibility of closing a deal during the trip, go prepared. Bring with you: ✔ Photo ID ✔ Proof of recent ✔ address Proof of funds or mortgage approval (if available)

In some countries, you may be required to have a local tax number or tax code, which can be obtained in advance with the help of your lawyer or real estate agent. It can also be useful to provide a power of attorney to streamline bureaucratic processes remotely.

5. Prepare finances for the trip

A visualization trip is not just about finding the right property, but also about being financially ready to take action. Currency fluctuations can significantly impact the budget, especially when buying in euros.

Consulting with a specialized account manager before traveling allows you to open an account and access tools such as term contracts, avoiding hasty financial decisions.

6. Assess the area carefully

Before you travel, determine whether your goal is to explore a region in general or visit specific properties. This clarity will help in organizing the agenda and making more informed decisions.

7. Stay focused and well-informed

A visualization trip can be intense, and being out of your comfort zone can make decisions more difficult. Therefore, the ideal is to organize all the details before leaving, from documentation to legal and financial support.