FAQ - Buying & Selling Property in Lagos Portugal
Honest answers to the most common questions about buying and selling property in Lagos and the Algarve – from how my Buyer’s Agent service works to the real costs, process, and legal bits every buyer and seller should know. Let’s make things clear, so you can move forward with confidence.
🏡 Your complete guide to buying and selling property in Lagos Portugal
Over the years, I’ve answered thousands of questions from clients buying or selling property in Lagos and across the Algarve. Most come down to the same key things – how the process works, what it really costs, and how to make it all feel a little less overwhelming.
As a licensed Buyer’s Agent and estate agent with over 25 years of experience, I’ve pulled together this guide to help you get clear on the essentials – from NIF numbers and notary fees to timelines, taxes, and trusted local professionals.
Explore the topics that matter most to you below, and when you’re ready to talk strategy – you’re in safe hands with Lagos Real Estate Specialists.
🤝 Buyer's Agent Service in the Algarve
What does a Buyer’s Agent actually do in Portugal?
As a Buyer’s Agent (a role recognised and regulated by IMPIC – Instituto dos Mercados Públicos, do Imobiliário e da Construção) in Lagos Portugal, I represent you – the buyer – through every part of the property search and purchase process. That means I am basically your eyes and ears in Portugal – I look across all agencies and private listings in the Algarve to find properties that truly fit your needs, rather than just pushing one seller’s listing.
I handle everything from arranging viewings and negotiating the price to guiding you through the legal process with trusted local professionals.
It’s a full-circle service that helps you buy safely and confidently in Portugal’s real estate market.
Do I pay a Buyer’s Agent in Portugal directly?
In most cases, no – you don’t pay your Buyer’s Agent in Portugal directly.
When a property is listed through an estate agency, the seller pays the agency commission, and that fee is then shared with the Buyer’s Agent representing you.
So you still get independent advice and full support at no extra cost.
If I’m working on a private or off-market property search (where no listing agency is involved), we’ll agree a small retainer or success fee upfront – always transparent, always discussed in advance.
It’s a straightforward, fair system that keeps your interests protected from start to finish.
Can you help me buy a property in Portugal if I’m not living there?
Absolutely. Many of my clients start their property search while living abroad – whether that’s in the UK, Europe or in a completely different time zone.
As a Buyer’s Agent in Lagos Portugal, I handle the full process remotely: virtual viewings, video walk-throughs, digital contracts, and secure power-of-attorney arrangements with trusted local lawyers.
You can explore, shortlist and even reserve your ideal property without setting foot on a plane until it’s time to collect the keys.
It’s a smooth, transparent way to buy in the Algarve – and you’ll have someone on the ground making sure every detail runs exactly as it should.
Why should I use a Buyer’s Agent instead of just browsing online?
Because scrolling through listings at midnight with 27 tabs open isn’t a strategy.
As a Buyer’s Agent in Lagos Portugal, I don’t just show you what’s available — I help you understand what’s worth it.
That means filtering out properties that look great online but don’t stack up in person, comparing true market value, and negotiating the best deal based on local insight.
I also source off-market listings and work with other agents across the Algarve, so you see a full picture of what’s really out there.
It’s the difference between house-hunting and having a professional in your corner who’s genuinely invested in finding your winner.
🔑 Buying property in Lagos & the Algarve
What are the costs of buying a property in Portugal?
Buying property in Portugal comes with additional costs of around 8–10% on top of the purchase price.
This covers IMT (Property Transfer Tax), stamp duty, notary fees, and registration fees.
If you’re using a mortgage, allow for small bank and valuation charges too.
As your Buyer’s Agent in Lagos Portugal, I’ll give you a clear cost breakdown before you make an offer – no hidden surprises, just full transparency from day one.
You can find the latest IMT (property transfer tax) rates on the Portuguese Tax Authority website.
Do I need a Portuguese NIF number to buy property?
Yes – your NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is your Portuguese tax number, and you’ll need it to buy property, open a bank account, or set up utilities.
If you’re not a resident, don’t worry – I can connect you with trusted professionals who can obtain your NIF remotely within a few days.
It’s a simple step that gets you “property ready” fast and legally compliant.
More details on how NIF numbers work can be found on Portal das Finanças.
Can foreigners buy property in Portugal?
Yes, absolutely – there are no restrictions for foreign buyers in Portugal.
Whether you’re an EU or non-EU citizen, you can buy property in Lagos and across the Algarve in your own name or via a company.
Portugal actively welcomes international buyers, and I’ll guide you through the paperwork, tax numbers, and local professionals needed to complete safely.
From first viewing to final signature, you’re in safe hands.
How long does the buying process take?
From accepted offer to completion, expect around 6–10 weeks.
That includes your promissory contract, legal checks, and signing the deed before a notary.
However, in some cases the purchase can be completed within just a few days. The final deed date can also be extended to suit your situation.
If you’re arranging a mortgage, allow a little extra time for bank approvals.
I’ll keep the process on track and make sure everyone involved – lawyers, sellers, notaries – stays coordinated so there are no surprises. As your Buyer’s Agent, I’ll connect you with the right lender for your circumstances, whether you’re a resident or buying from abroad.
Together, we’ll review rates, loan-to-value options, and the documents you’ll need so you can finance your property confidently and on time.
Can you help me get a mortgage in Portugal?
Yes – I work closely with local mortgage brokers and banks who specialise in helping foreign buyers.
As your Buyer’s Agent, I’ll connect you with the right lender for your circumstances, whether you’re a resident or buying from abroad.
Together, we’ll review rates, loan-to-value options, and the documents you’ll need so you can finance your property confidently and on time.
💸 Selling in Lagos & the Algarve
How do I sell my property in Portugal?
Selling a property in Portugal starts with gathering the right documents – your energy certificate, habitation licence, property registration, and land registry details.
From there, I’ll prepare a realistic market valuation based on comparable sales across Lagos and the Algarve.
As your estate agent, I manage every step: photography, listing, viewings, negotiations, and coordination with lawyers and notaries.
You’ll have one clear point of contact and full visibility from valuation to completion.
How long does it take to sell a property in Lagos?
That depends on price positioning and property type, but most well-presented homes in Lagos sell within 3–6 months (although I’ve sold properties in less than a week before – so it’s definitely possible 😏)
Pricing accurately from the start is key – it attracts qualified buyers and speeds up offers.
With the right exposure and strategy, I’ll help you reach serious buyers faster and get the strongest result possible.
What are the taxes and costs when selling property in Portugal?
When selling property in Portugal, the main costs are capital gains tax, estate agency commission, and legal fees.
If you’re a non-resident, capital gains are usually taxed at a flat rate, though exemptions may apply if you reinvest in another EU property.
I’ll connect you with an accountant who can calculate your exact obligations and ensure everything is handled correctly before completion.
You can read more about capital gains tax on property at Portal das Finanças.
How do you decide on the right listing price?
It’s a mix of market data, local knowledge, and 25 years of experience (plus a healthy gut feeling).
I review comparable listings and recent sales across Lagos and the surrounding Algarve area, then adjust for features, condition, and demand.
The goal isn’t just to list – it’s to sell at the best possible price in the right timeframe.
We’ll review the strategy together before going live.
Do I need to renovate before listing?
Not always – but presentation matters.
Sometimes a simple declutter, deep clean, or small cosmetic refresh (new photos, neutral tones, tidy gardens) can make all the difference.
I’ll give you honest feedback on what’s worth doing and what’s not, so you don’t waste time or money before listing.
😉 Practicalities & Working with Natascha
Can you recommend lawyers, builders or other professionals?
Absolutely. After 25+ years in property between the UK and Portugal, I’ve built a trusted network of lawyers, mortgage brokers, surveyors, builders and property managers here in the Algarve.
Everyone I recommend is tried, tested, and professional – people I’d happily use myself.
Whether you need help with contracts, renovations or ongoing management, I’ll connect you with the right local experts.
Do you help after the sale is completed?
Yes – the relationship doesn’t end at the notary’s office.
Many of my clients stay in touch long after the keys are handed over.
I can help you settle in, recommend local trades, and connect you with cleaners, gardeners or management companies if you’re renting your property out.
Think of it as full-circle support – buying, moving, managing, all with someone who knows how it really works here in Lagos.
I don’t speak Portuguese - will that be a problem?
Not at all. Most of the process – from contracts to completion – can be handled in English.
I also work with bilingual lawyers and notaries who make sure nothing gets lost in translation.
And if you want to learn a few words along the way, I’ll teach you how to say “cheers” in Portuguese when we toast your new home.
For your referene: Portugal’s government provides useful info for new residents in English on the ePortugal portal.
Can you help if I want to rent or manage my property after buying?
Yes – I can connect you with trusted property management and rental partners here in Lagos and across the Algarve.
They handle everything from marketing and guest check-ins to cleaning and maintenance.
Whether it’s a long-term rental or a holiday let, you’ll have a reliable team keeping things running smoothly while you enjoy the returns.
How do you usually work with clients?
It starts with a chat – no hard sell, just an honest conversation about your goals.
We talk about your must-haves, nice-to-haves and deal-breakers, then I design a strategy around you.
You’ll get consistent updates, transparent communication and proper guidance from start to finish.
You’re in safe hands – and we might even have a few laughs along the way.
Still have questions? Let’s talk strategy.
If your question didn’t make the list – or you’d just rather talk things through one-to-one – let’s chat.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just figuring out your must-haves and deal-breakers, I’m happy to help you make sense of the Lagos property market.
As a local real estate agent and Buyer’s Agent in Lagos Portugal, I’ll guide you from first viewing to final signature – and connect you with the right people every step of the way.
You’re in safe hands.
Still browsing? Take a look at Tips & Stories — where I share real advice, local insight, and behind-the-scenes stories from life in Lagos.