Real Estate Agents in Portugal: Roles & Benefits

Real Estate Agents in Portugal: Roles, Benefits, and Tips

📌 Main Functions of Real Estate Agents

A real estate agent does much more than simply promote properties. Their responsibilities include:

• Handling paperwork and all bureaucratic processes.

• Monitoring the transaction chain (buyers selling their old home and sellers purchasing a new one).

• Negotiating with buyers and sellers to ensure fair agreements.

🏢 Choosing the Best Agency

There are two main types of agencies in Portugal:

• Local agencies: Specialists in specific areas, with deep knowledge of local prices, available properties, and market trends.

• National agencies: Operating across several cities, offering a broader view of price variations, supply, and demand.

👉 When selecting an agency, consider:

• The types of properties they offer.

• Their fees or commissions.

• Their reputation and experience in your target area.

🎯 Advantages of Real Estate Mediation

Real estate mediation goes far beyond “finding a buyer in exchange for a commission.” Key benefits include:

• Listening and understanding the reasons behind buying or selling.

• Conducting market analysis to find the best price/quality ratio.

• Advising on financing options and defining the most advantageous strategy.

• Ensuring proper representation to avoid financial losses.

The agent’s mission is to help clients achieve the best possible deal with maximum security and benefits.

📝 Stay in Control During the Process

To remain organized when searching for a home:

• Record all conversations with agents (names, dates, and times).

• Use these notes as reminders of what was discussed and agreed upon.

❓ Essential Questions to Ask

When a property catches your eye, don’t hesitate to ask questions such as:

• How long has the property been on the market?

• Are there any planned works or renovations?

• What is included in the sale (furniture, equipment, parking, etc.)?

💡 Making an Offer

When submitting an offer, keep in mind:

• Subject to Contract (STC) – the sale is only finalized once contracts are exchanged.

• Subject to Survey – allows potential issues or repair costs to be considered after inspection.

Once your offer is accepted:

• Confirm that the agent has removed the property from the market.

• Request written confirmation of acceptance.

• Ensure no further viewings are scheduled to avoid competing offers.