How to Plan a Successful Property Viewing Trip

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

Buying a property overseas begins with one of the most exciting and decisive steps: the viewing trip. While it may seem straightforward, a successful trip requires advance planning. According to research from Your Overseas Home, the average international buyer makes only one or two trips before choosing the right property. Getting the strategy right from the start is essential.

Here are seven often‑overlooked factors that can make a significant difference in your search.

1. Choosing the right time to travel Although you can visit properties at any time of the year, spring and fall are generally the best seasons. Summer often brings high temperatures, higher prices for flights and accommodation, and large tourist crowds. In addition, in some countries many real estate agents take time off in August, which can make scheduling visits more difficult. Spring and fall offer a calmer environment and give you a more authentic sense of what daily life in the region is like. Visiting outside peak season also helps you evaluate local infrastructure without the influence of heavy tourism.

2. Planning ahead and contacting real estate agents Avoid last‑minute arrangements. Reaching out to agents a few weeks before your trip allows them to prepare a personalized schedule of property visits based on your needs. Be transparent about your budget, timeline, and expectations. Some agents may request proof of funds to confirm that you are a serious buyer. While this may feel formal, it helps ensure that your time is spent efficiently and that the properties shown truly match your criteria.

3. Consulting a local attorney before you travel Having an independent, local attorney from the beginning is crucial to avoid pitfalls and fully understand the legal aspects of buying property in Portugal. A good attorney can explain tax obligations, legal requirements, and specific considerations that may affect your decision, such as how to structure the purchase if you are buying with an unmarried partner. Understanding these implications early helps prevent unpleasant surprises later.

4. Organizing essential documentation If there is a chance you may move forward with a purchase during your trip, come prepared. Bring a valid photo ID, recent proof of address, and proof of funds or mortgage pre‑approval if available. In Portugal, you may also need a tax identification number (NIF), which your attorney or real estate agent can help you obtain in advance. It may also be useful to arrange a power of attorney to streamline administrative steps if you need to complete part of the process from abroad.

5. Preparing your finances before the trip A viewing trip is not only about finding the right property — it is also about being financially ready to act. Exchange rate fluctuations can significantly affect your budget, especially when purchasing in euros. Speaking with a currency specialist before you travel allows you to open an account and access tools such as forward contracts, helping you protect your budget and avoid rushed financial decisions during the trip.

6. Evaluating the area carefully Before traveling, decide whether your goal is to explore a region broadly or to focus on specific properties. This clarity helps structure your itinerary, saves time, and leads to more informed decisions once you are on the ground.

7. Staying focused and well‑informed A viewing trip can be intense, and being outside your comfort zone can make decisions more challenging. That’s why it is essential to organize everything in advance: documentation, legal support, financial planning, and logistics. The more prepared you are, the smoother and more productive your experience will be.