Real Estate Law in Portugal
What we do
We advise individuals, families, investors and companies on residential, commercial and investment real estate in Portugal. From acquisition and legal due diligence to ownership structuring, lease arrangements, development projects, financing and cross-border tax considerations, we help clients make informed and secure decisions.
- Property acquisition and sale
- Legal and tax due diligence
- Ownership and real-estate investment structuring
- Drafting and review of residential and commercial lease agreements
- Commercial leasing and real-estate development
- Financing and mortgages
- Compliance for non-resident buyers
Who we help
Foreign and domestic buyers, investors, developers, expatriates, high-net-worth individuals and families acquiring, selling, leasing, developing or restructuring real-estate assets in Portugal.
Frequently asked questions
• Can a foreigner buy property in Portugal?
Yes. There are generally no restrictions on foreign ownership of property in Portugal. However, tax, ownership, financing and succession considerations should ideally be assessed before the property is acquired.
• What checks should I run before buying?
Legal due diligence should include verification of ownership, licences, planning status, mortgages, encumbrances, tax matters and any restrictions affecting the property before the transaction proceeds.
• Can BRF Legal assist throughout the entire property acquisition process?
Yes. We support clients from the initial legal due diligence and negotiation stages through contractual documentation, completion of the transaction and post-acquisition matters.
• Do I need a Portuguese company to buy property in Portugal?
Not necessarily. Property may be acquired personally or through a corporate structure, depending on the investor’s tax, succession, financing and commercial objectives. The most appropriate option should be assessed before the transaction.
• Can you review or prepare lease agreements?
Yes. We assist landlords, tenants and investors with the drafting, review and negotiation of residential and commercial lease agreements.
• What taxes should I consider when buying property in Portugal?
Depending on the transaction, buyers may need to consider IMT, Stamp Duty and ongoing property taxation. The impact varies according to the property, purchase price, ownership structure and intended use.
Buying, selling or leasing property in Portugal?
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