Buying a Home in Portugal: Complete Step‑by‑Step Guide

Buying a Property in Portugal: Step‑by‑Step Guide

Buying a property in Portugal follows three key stages — reservation, promissory contract and deed. The process is safe, transparent and supported by a lawyer and a specialised real estate agency, ensuring full protection for the buyer.

🏡 Complete Guide to Buying a Property in Portugal

Buying a home in Portugal is a clear and structured process, but it requires attention to legal details and the support of trusted professionals. Our Home Portugal stands out by specialising exclusively in the regions we know deeply — Lisbon and the Algarve — offering a secure and highly personalised service.

🔎 1. Choosing the Right Real Estate Agency

Selecting a trustworthy real estate agency is the first essential step. While many companies operate nationwide, Our Home Portugal focuses on specific regions, ensuring:

• deep local market knowledge

• carefully selected properties

• personalised guidance

• greater security throughout the process

⚖️ 2. The Role of the Lawyer

Although not mandatory, hiring a lawyer is highly recommended. The lawyer is responsible for:

• verifying all property documentation

• checking licences and registrations

• identifying risks or debts

• ensuring full legal protection

Before proceeding, you must confirm that your personal documentation is up to date and that you have the financial means to invest.

🧭 The 3‑Step Buying Process

1️⃣ Reservation

Once you find the right property and agree on the price with the seller, the first step is the reservation:

• removes the property from the market

• prevents competing offers

• shows commitment

The reservation fee usually ranges from €6,000 to €20,000. The lawyer has 15 to 30 days to analyse all documentation. A simple two‑page agreement is signed to formalise the intention to buy.

2️⃣ Promissory Contract (CPCV)

After the legal checks, the lawyer prepares a report and requests the promissory contract from the seller.

The buyer may propose adjustments based on legal advice.

Once both parties agree:

• the buyer pays a deposit of 10% to 60%

• the contract becomes legally binding

If the seller withdraws, they must return double the deposit, as required by Portuguese law.

3️⃣ Deed (Final Completion)

The final step is signing the public deed, where the buyer becomes the legal owner.

The lawyer confirms:

• licences

• absence of debts

• full legal compliance

After the final payment, the property is registered in the buyer’s name.

In some cases, buyers may skip the promissory contract and go straight to the deed, but this is rare — around 90% of purchases include the promissory stage.

🛡️ Buying Property in Portugal Is Safe and Transparent

With Our Home Portugal, you receive complete support at every stage — from property selection to the final deed — ensuring clarity, confidence and total security.