Buying a Property in Portugal

Buying a Property in Portugal with Van Rulo Real Estate

At Van Rulo Real Estate, we make buying a home in the Algarve or elsewhere in Portugal simple, transparent, and stress-free. From your first viewing to signing the final deed, our team guides you step by step, ensuring that everything is handled professionally and in your own language.

1. Finding Your Dream Home

With Van Rulo Real Estate, you don’t have to waste time dealing with multiple agencies.

• We search not only within our own exclusive listings but also through trusted partner agencies across the Algarve.
• This way, you only need one point of contact – us – while having access to the entire market.
• We listen carefully to your needs and budget to find the right property, whether for living, vacation, or investment.

2. Reservation of the Property

When you’ve found the right home:

• We help you secure it with a reservation agreement and a small deposit.
• The property is taken off the market, giving you peace of mind while due diligence is carried out.

3. Obtaining a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF)

All buyers in Portugal must have a Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF).

• If you don’t already have one, we’ll assist you in obtaining it from the tax office.
• This number is required for signing contracts, paying taxes, opening a bank account, and completing the purchase.

4. Financing Assistance

If you need a mortgage, we can help.

• We work with several Portuguese banks and brokers who provide financing options for both residents and non-residents.
• Residents can usually borrow up to 80–90% of the property’s value, while non-residents can borrow around 60–70%.
• Our team coordinates with the bank and ensures the entire process is explained clearly in your language.

5. Legal Guidance & Due Diligence

We understand how important it is that your purchase is legally secure.

• Over the years, we’ve built relationships with trusted lawyers who will check all documents, including:
• Ownership and land registry records
• Encumbrances (mortgages, liens, or debts)
• Licenses and planning permissions
• Energy certificates and technical files
• This protects you and ensures the property is 100% ready for transfer.

6. Promissory Contract (Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda)

Once all checks are complete:

• Both parties sign the Promissory Contract.
• You typically pay a deposit of 10–30% of the purchase price.
• This contract is legally binding and outlines the final sale price, deadlines, and conditions.
• If the buyer withdraws, the deposit is lost.
• If the seller withdraws, they must return double the deposit.

We guide you through every step of this signing.

7. Final Deed (Escritura de Compra e Venda)

The final step is signing the deed of purchase and sale at the notary.

• We accompany you to the signing.
• The balance of the purchase price is paid.
• Ownership is officially transferred, and the property is registered in your name.

At this moment, your dream of owning a home in Portugal becomes reality.

8. Taxes & Fees Explained

With our help, you’ll understand all costs upfront. These typically include:

• IMT (Property Transfer Tax) – calculated on a sliding scale depending on property type and value.
• Stamp Duty – 0.8% of the purchase price.
• Notary, Registration & Legal Fees – usually a small percentage of the purchase price.

We make sure there are no surprises, so you know exactly what to expect.

9. After the Purchase – Our Ongoing Support

Our service doesn’t end once you’ve signed the deed.

• We help you transfer utilities (water, electricity, gas, internet).
• We guide you through any post-purchase tax formalities.
• If you want to rent out your property, we can advise on Alojamento Local (AL) registration.
• Through our Property Management service, we can even look after your home when you’re away, making sure it stays in perfect condition.