How Long Does It Take to Buy Property in Portugal?

Introduction

Buying property in Portugal is a relatively efficient process compared to many other European countries — but timelines can still vary depending on your preparation, the property’s legal status, and whether you’re buying with or without financing.

This guide walks you through the typical timeline, step-by-step, so you know what to expect and how to avoid unnecessary delays.

Typical Timeline to Buy a Property in Portugal

For most cash buyers with legal support in place, the full process takes 4 to 8 weeks from offer to final deed. With financing or special conditions, it can stretch to 2–3 months or more.

1. Property Search and Selection (1–6 weeks)

This is the most variable stage. If you know the Algarve well and have a buyer’s agent assisting you, the process may be fast. But if you’re exploring locations or still clarifying your goals, this stage can take weeks or even months.

What can speed it up:

• A clear budget and criteria
• Pre-qualified location shortlist
• Working with a buyer advisor who pre-vets listings

2. Making an Offer and Negotiation (1–7 days)

Once you find the right property, your lawyer or buyer agent submits an offer to the seller (or listing agent). Negotiation is usually quick and direct, especially if you’re a cash buyer or come pre-approved for a mortgage.

In some cases, a reservation agreement or deposit (often €5,000–€10,000) may be used to remove the listing from the market while contracts are drafted.

3. Legal Due Diligence (5–15 business days)

Once the offer is accepted, your lawyer begins verifying:

• Ownership and debts
• Licenses and plans
• Habitation status
• Encumbrances or court cases
• Registry and cadastral data

If the property has irregularities (common in older homes or rural land), this may extend the process.

Tip: Have a lawyer ready before making an offer. This alone can save 1–2 weeks.

4. Signing the Promissory Contract (CPCV) (1–2 weeks after offer)

Once due diligence is complete, the Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda (CPCV) is drafted and signed. This is the legally binding contract that secures the deal.

• A deposit of 10–30% is paid
• The closing date is agreed
• Penalties for breach are defined

Most buyers sign this within 2–3 weeks of offer acceptance.

5. Mortgage (if applicable) (4–8 weeks)

If you’re financing your purchase with a Portuguese bank, allow at least 30–45 days for:

• Mortgage application and approval
• Property valuation
• Loan offer and acceptance
• Bank scheduling for signing the deed

Some banks move faster than others — but cash buyers can usually skip this entire step.

6. Final Deed and Closing (Escritura) (4–6 weeks after CPCV)

Once financing is in place and all documents are cleared, the final deed is signed in front of a notary. You (or your lawyer via Power of Attorney) and the seller both attend.

• Remaining funds are paid
• Taxes and fees are settled
• Ownership is officially transferred

You receive the keys the same day, and the property is registered in your name.

Remote Buyers: Is the Process Longer?

No — if you appoint a lawyer with Power of Attorney, the process is just as fast (or even faster). In fact, remote buyers often complete purchases more efficiently because everything is pre-authorized legally and financially.

Final Thoughts

The average property purchase in Portugal takes 4 to 8 weeks — or longer if financing, inheritance issues, or legal irregularities are involved.

The keys to a smooth and fast process:

• Have your NIF, bank account, and lawyer in place early
• Clarify your goals and property type before viewing
• Work with a buyer-side team to handle paperwork and negotiation

With the right preparation, buying property in Portugal can be seamless and rewarding — even from abroad.

FAQs