Updated: September 26, 2025

 

Guarda is a captivating city situated in Central Portugal, just 30 minutes to the west of the Spanish border and surrounded by the unique Serra da Estrela mountains, the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal.

If you are considering buying property in Guarda, you will be stunned by the location and the affordability of this part of Portugal, where you can enjoy a truly authentic Portuguese environment and incredible gastronomy.

In this article, your guide to buying property in Guarda, Portugal, we’ll delve into this charming city and region of Portugal, providing you with key information and tips about the buying process to snap up property here.

Why should you buy property in Guarda?

guarda portugalGuarda is both a city and municipality in Central Portugal that boasts a high quality of life and where you can immerse yourself in an authentic Portuguese lifestyle.

Local produce is at the forefront of the food scene here in Guarda, such as delicious local cheeses (try the queijo da Serra da Estrela) and choriço, made using traditional production methods.

With a close community feel, Guarda is a very safe part of the country to live, where you’ll find the locals extremely friendly to expats.

Guarda is well connected to key Portuguese cities, such as Porto and Aveiro by the highways, and you can drive to Spain in less than an hour. Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, is also just over three hours away.

While tourists have traditionally visited the hotspot locations of Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, more tourists than ever before a looking off the beaten path to enjoy the peace and quiet of interior areas, wellness and spa centers in the midst of nature, and eco-tourism experiences, such as winemaking or cheesemaking.

With the stunning Serra da Estrela mountains, the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal, and the abundance of beauty in the region, it is likely that interior areas of Portugal, such as Guarda, will see a boost in popularity in the future, opening up the potential for you to secure a nice return on your investment in the future.

The Presidency of the Regional Tourist Entity has also mentioned in 2024 his belief that a key trend for the future of tourism in Portugal will be experienced in the interior areas, with it important to improve accessibility to these beautiful areas, some of the most unspoiled and stunning in the country. Nature lovers will definitly find much to admire about the countryside and stunning landscapes close to Guarda.

Can foreigners buy property in Guarda?

Yes, foreign buyers can purchase property in Guarda, as there are no restrictions on buying property in Portugal as a foreigner in general. You will need to have a NIF (Portuguese tax number), and it is recommended to work with a real estate professional and a property lawyer to ensure the buying process runs smoothly.

If you would like to relocate to Portugal, you will need to ensure you can legally live in the country, with their being many options open for non-EU nationals, including the D7 Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, and the Golden Visa.

Buying Property in Guarda in 2025

Should you be looking to find your dream home in a calm part of Portugal, well known for its pure, clean air, you will be pleased to know that property prices here are very affordable.

The average asking price for property in Guarda stands at €785 per square meter. You will find a wide selection of residential properties in the market here.

Guarda property types range from modern apartments that retain traditional charm to spacious houses, country homes, and historical properties. You will also find land plots for sale at very affordable rates, plus equestrian properties and vineyards in the surrounding countryside.

Step-by-Step Buying Property Process in Guarda for Foreigners

There are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Portugal, making the process of acquiring property quite straightforward. However, as with buying property in any country, you will need to ensure you are familiar with the buying process.

Below, we provide an easy six-step guide to buying a house in Guarda, Portugal.

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Take a look at our guide to buying property in Portugal to kickstart your buying journey

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Requirements for a Successful Property Purchase

When buying property in Portugal, there are certain hoops that you will need to jump through. In this section, we will delve into the requirements you need for a successful property purchase.

GC-ICON-76Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF)

You will need to get a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF) for any major financial transactions in Portugal, including buying property. You can apply for the NIF number at your local tax office (Serviço de Finanças), but you can also get your NIF number online before even coming to Portugal. If you are a non-EU citizen, you must have a fiscal representative.

Portuguese bank account

When not mandatory, it is advisable to open a Portuguese bank account when investing in property in Guarda to avoid additional charges during your transaction. There are many different Portuguese banks to cater to foreign investors, with more than fifteen banks providing mortgage options for foreigners.

Required documents for buying property in Coimbra

You will need to have the following documents when buying property in Coimbra.

  • Photo ID: A valid identification document used to confirm your identity.
  • Contrato Promessa de Compra e Venda (CPCV): The agreement outlining the terms and conditions of a property purchase.
  • Energy Certificate: This document offers insights into a property’s energy efficiency and should be provided by the seller.
  • Imposto de Selo: Stamp duty, a tax mandated by the Tax Authority for property transactions.
  • Caderneta Predial: A document from the land registry containing details about a property, such as its location, boundaries, and registered owner.

How to Find Property in Guarda

The property market in Guarda is not as developed as in other parts of Portugal, such as Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve, which can make it difficult to find your perfect home. Plus, the property market is fragmented, and there is no one place to find all the properties available to buyers.

This is where seeking the expert assistance of a buyer’s agent or English speaking realtor in Portugal comes in. We also highly recommend working with a Portuguese property lawyer to assist you with the legalities of the purchase.

We know that each buyer will have different requirements, and therefore, it’s essential for you to clearly define your requirements and budget. Below, we share some top tips for buying property in Guarda Portugal.

GC-ICON-93Beginning your property search in Portugal

Beginning your property search involves several key steps:

  • Clarify your requirements: Start by outlining your specific needs and requirements. A property finder in Portugal can narrow down the search for you based on your location preferences, property size, budget constraints, and desired amenities.
  • Establish your budget: Determine a realistic budget for your property purchase. Consider whether you’ll require financing through a mortgage and, if so, begin exploring your options to secure a mortgage in Portgual. This step will help you refine your search and concentrate on properties that fall within your financial means.
  • Explore neighborhoods: Conduct extensive research on various neighborhoods to identify those that best suit your lifestyle and preferences. Look into factors such as the quality of local schools, availability of local amenities, and the potential for future development or property value appreciation.

GC-ICON-93Seek expert guidance

Researching through property portals and websites can only get you so far. While they are a good place to begin to get a flavor of the property market, consider engaging the services of a reputable real estate agent or buyer’s agent.

Experienced agents offer valuable local insights, exclusive listings that you will not find on property websites alone, and expert guidance throughout the property acquisition process. Keep in mind that while real estate agents represent the seller and will secure a higher commission for a higher sale, buyer’s agents prioritize the buyer’s interests, ensuring their interests are protected.

Make sure that you express your requirements and preferences clearly so that they can pinpoint properties for sale that align with your needs.

GC-ICON-93Property viewings

When you’ve shortlisted properties that are of interest to you, the next step is to schedule viewings. Should you work with a buyer’s agent or real estate agent, they will be able to set up these viewings on your behalf. Take note of the property’s condition, layout, and potential renovation needs.

Prepare questions in advance about the property, neighborhood, and developments, and it is worth talking to neighbors for their local insights and what it is like to live in the area. Visit the property both during the day and at night as a location can have a different feel depending on when you visit.

GC-ICON-93Conduct thorough due diligence

Performing due diligence is essential in all property transactions, as it helps uncover any legal concerns or possible hurdles that must be resolved before moving forward with the deal. Your real estate lawyer in Portugal will handle due diligence assessments on your behalf, which encompass examining both property-related matters and the seller’s situation, to ensure they are legally able to sell the property. Additionally, they will inform you about any existing debts associated with the property.

Where to Find Properties for Sale in Guarda

You will find stunning Guarda properties in and around Guarda. When choosing the right location for property for sale in Guarda, Portugal, be sure to consider your needs and preferences. For example, do you want to be in the heart of nature or in the center of Guarda? Be sure to define your requirements before kickstarting your property search.

To get started, commit to research. A simple search for “houses for sale Guarda Portugal” is a good starting point, whereby you can get ballpark price figures and learn more about the property types available. When you have a bit of knowledge, we recommend speaking with an experienced property expert, to help you refine your search and help you secure your dream home.

Aside from Guarda, you can check out some of the other best places to snap up Portuguese property in our article: What are the Best Places to Buy Real Estate in Portugal?

Commercial property in Guarda

While Guarda is not as popular a location as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, emerging locations such as Guarda are now poised for significant growth in the coming years. This shift is largely driven by increased interest in quieter areas that offer access to Portugal’s stunning natural landscapes and a more sustainable way of life.

One of the key drivers behind this trend is the rise of wellness centers, nature retreats, such as TerraSense, and eco-tourism ventures establishing themselves in Portugal’s interior regions, including in and around Guarda. These developments indicate a strong potential for increased tourism and business activity in the area, making it a good location for commercial investments in the coming years.

Best Areas to Buy Property in Guarda

Some of the best areas to buy property in Guarda, Portugal, are shown below.

  • Guarda city center: Guarda’s historic center conjures up an old-world charm with the Guarda Cathedral as its center point. The cathedral is a combination of Gothic and Manueline architectural styles and proves a fitting backdrop to the old-age charm of the city. Buying property here offers close proximity to shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
  • Surrounding villages: The countryside surrounding Guarda is dotted with quaint villages, providing the ultimate location for those seeking a slower, relaxed pace of life. Properties here offer incredible views of rolling hills, the Serra da Estrela mountain range, and the occasional vineyard. Almeida, Castelo Mendo, Linhares da Beira, Marialva, Trancoso, and Sortelha are each excellent choices and are frequently mentioned in discussions about the most beautiful villages in Portugal. Alvendre is also a top choice, just to the north of Guarda.
  • Serra da Estrela: For outdoor enthusiasts, investing in property near the Serra da Estrela Natural Park presents an excellent opportunity. From cozy cottages to spacious chalets, the properties here offer unparalleled access to hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities, making them ideal for nature lovers.

If you are seeking to retire to Guarda, you’ll be able to enjoy an affordable, high quality of life, in the midst of nature. While Portugal retirement communities in Guarda, may not speak such good English as in Lisbon and Porto, you will quickly feel at home given the welcoming nature of the locals here.

The Câmara Municipal de Guarda is the City Hall responsible for the charming city of Guarda. You can keep up with the latest events and festivals in the municipality on their website.

Guarda Property Taxes and Fees

When buying property in Guarda, you will need to ensure you understand the legal processes and are up to speed with the taxes that you will need to pay. Property taxes in Portugal fall at the time of purchase and on an annual basis.

Below, we delve into the taxes you will need to pay upfront when buying the property and the taxes you will need to pay annually.

taxes iconTaxes to pay at the time of purchase

Below are the taxes that you will need to pay at the time of purchase.

IMT (Portugal Purchase Tax)

The first tax you’ll need to take into account is the Imposto Municipal Sobre as Transmissões Onerosas de Imóveis (IMT), or Municipal Tax on Onerous Transfers of Real Estate. This tax ranges from 0 to 10 percent. The 0 to 8 percent range is based on factors like the property’s price, location, type, and intended use (whether it is for primary residence or secondary housing). A fixed rate of 10 percent applies if the buyer is linked to territories with favorable tax schemes, known as blacklisted jurisdictions.

Stamp Duty

When purchasing property in Portugal, you will need to factor in Stamp Duty (Imposto do Selo), one of the country’s oldest taxes that is applied to various transactions. For property acquisitions, Stamp Duty is levied at a rate of 0.8 percent.

taxes iconTaxes to pay on an annual basis

Below we have listed some of the taxes you will need to pay annually.

IMI (Municipal Property Tax)

The Municipal Property Tax (Imposto Municipal sobre Imóveis) in Portugal is an annual obligation for property owners. The tax rates vary by municipality, with each local legislature determining its own rates. Typically, IMI rates range from 0.3 to 0.45 percent for urban properties (in certain situations, up to 5 percent) and up to 0.8 percent for rural properties.

IMI is calculated based on the property tax value (VPT), not the purchase price, which usually works out nicely for the buyer as the VPT is usually much lower than the market value.

AIMI (Portuguese Wealth tax)

AIMI (Additional to IMI) is a Portuguese Wealth tax that is required on properties valued at over €600,000. The tax rates are shown below.

  • For properties valued between €600,001 and €1 mil: 0.7 percent tax
  • For properties valued between €1 mil and €2 mil: 1 percent tax
  • For properties valued above €2 mil: 1.5 percent tax

taxes iconCapital Gains Tax

buying property in guarda taxIf you are looking to sell your property, you will need to consider Capital Gains Tax. This means that the profits that you make when you sell a property are liable to tax.

Non-residents selling property in Portugal are subject to a flat 28 percent tax rate on the entire gain. Portuguese residents, however, are taxed on gains from investments and property acquired only after 1 January 1989, with rates ranging from 14.5 percent to 48 percent based on income scales. When filing taxes, besides providing purchase details, invoices for property improvements must be included for the capital gains assessment.

Bear in mind that there can be exemptions to Capital Gains Tax. For example, if you are selling your primary residence in Portugal and reinvesting in Portuguese property within three years after the sale or two years before, then you will be exempt. Likewise, if the property was first occupied in your name before January 1989, or if you decide to reinvest the funds earned from the sale of your primary house in Portugal into a second primary residence in the EU, then you will also be exempt.

Additional Costs Involved in Buying Property in Guarda

buy a house in guarda portugal costsIn addition to the agreed price of the property and the taxes and fees that you will need to consider, bear in mind that there will be additional costs. We have outlined these below.

Legal expenses: Expect legal fees ranging from €2,000 to €5,000, which may vary based on factors such as property type, price, purchase intricacies, and the level of experience of the lawyer.

Land Registry fee: There’s a Land Registry fee of €250 that needs to be accounted for.

Notary fees: Plan for notary fees amounting to around €500-€1,000.

Also, bear in mind mortgage costs should you be looking to secure assistance with financing your property purchase.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help You

Goldcrest is the first buyer’s agent in Portugal, based in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. We provide local insights and impartial advice on property investments and have helped hundreds of expats secure their dream home in Portugal. From scouting out the perfect property through to property acquisition and aftercare, we guide you throughout the entire process.

If you are looking to purchase property in Portugal, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your property doubts, offering insightful expertise and strategic advice.

Book a complimentary call to discuss your options with our team of experts today.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Buying Property in Guarda, Portugal

There are no restrictions on foreigners purchasing property in Portugal. You will need to have a Portuguese NIF (Tax Identification Number) and provide the required documents. It is also highly recommended to open a Portuguese bank account.

Foreign buyers in Guarda face no restrictions when buying a property in Guarda or elsewhere in Portugal.

Finding a trusted real estate agent in Guarda involves researching local agencies, checking reviews and credentials, and meeting agents in person. Look for professionals with local market knowledge and transparent communication and who have assisted expats in similar situations.

Bear in mind that real estate agents work on behalf of the seller and will get a higher commission for a higher sale. Buyer’s agents will work solely on your behalf, ensuring your best interests are protected.

The best neighborhoods to buy property in Guarda depend on preferences and priorities. Popular areas include Guarda city center for amenities, Almeida for historic charm, and surrounding villages for tranquility and nature.

The property buying process in Guarda typically takes 1-4 months to complete, though this can vary based on factors like property type, financing, and legal requirements.

Guarda, Portugal, offers affordable property prices, an array of property types, and breathtaking scenery, making it attractive for investors seeking tranquility and natural beauty. However, its smaller size means limited amenities and economic opportunities compared with other bigger or better-known cities.

The average asking price for property in Guarda stands at €785 per square meter, making this charming city one of the most affordable in Portugal.

The cost of buying property in Guarda, Portugal, will depend on the size of the property, its amenities, and its proximity to the city center. You will find many different property types in and around Guarda, with more luxury properties obviously costing more.

There are more than fifteen banks that provide financing options for foreign buyers in Portugal, with fixed and variable rate mortgage options. The six step process is outlined below to get a mortgage to help you secure your dream home.

  • Obtain a mortgage quote.
  • Submit application forms.
  • Receive a formal mortgage offer.
  • Obtain a valuation report.
  • Arrange completion details.
  • Make payments (including all related fees, minimum deposit, tax office fees, and taxes) and sign the property and mortgage deeds.