Updated: March 12, 2025

 

Algarve-luxury-real-estateFrom the bright lights of Lisbon to the captivating historic city of Porto, from the sun-drenched Algarve to the quaint towns that line the Silver Coast, Portugal has much to offer expats. You also have the stunning Madeira Island, off the coast of Northeastern Africa, and the Azores, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the two autonomous islands of Portugal.

If you are looking for real estate to buy in Portugal, then having a top real estate agent in Portugal to assist you is important, particularly if you do not speak the language or are unfamiliar with the property market or the buying process.

The Portuguese real estate market is fragmented, and there is no single place to find all the available properties. In addition to this, search engines often provide incomplete information.

As such, working with a real estate agency can save you valuable time and provide key insights to help you discover the perfect property. You will also be able to tap into their local expertise, and they will guide you through the often-challenging process of snapping up a home in Portugal.

In this article, we’re going to provide you with some key information on the Portuguese real estate market before focusing on important considerations to bear in mind when choosing a top real estate agent in Portugal.

An Introduction to Portugal's Real Estate Market

The Portuguese real estate sector is dynamic. Given the vast array of property types, incredible locations – from beachside villas to country homes – and investment potential, expats and investors from all walks of life have their sights set on Portugal.

GC-ICON-81Overview of the market

Over the past few years, property prices in the real estate sector in Portugal have increased quite rapidly, particularly in key cities and highly desirable areas such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Price increases have been fueled by a shortage of housing supply and increasing demand. However, with this in mind, Portugal remains an affordable country to buy property in, particularly if you compare Portugal with other Western European countries.

GC-ICON-57Portugal real estate prices

Property prices in Portugal are generally much more affordable than properties in other Western European countries, although Lisbon does have its own price range and prices will also increase if you buy in a prime location, or secure a property with additional features, such as a swimming pool, private gym, and other amenities.

Property prices the Lisbon Metropolitan Area stand at €4,935 per square meter, rising to €6,934 in Lisbon City, while in Porto, Portugal’s second largest city, prices stand at €3,937 in the Metropolitan Area, rising to €4,883 in Porto City.

The average asking price for property in the sought-after Algarve is €4,385 although prices will vary considerably depending on where you buy in the region. For more affordable properties, the Alentejo, North, and Center of the country provide excellent value for money, with prices standing at €3,181, €1,903, and €2,098 per square meter, respectively.

GC-ICON-93Luxury properties

Luxury buyers will discover an array of luxury real estate across the country, from Lisbon and Porto to the Algarve. If you are interested in buying luxury property in Portugal well known for its stunning natural beauty, you should also consider Comporta Portugal real estate and Melides Portugal real estate, both located in the stunning South West region, less than an hour and a half south of Lisbon.

Lisbon ranks in 4th for greatest potential for capital appreciation of luxury properties in 2025, with growth of 4.5 percent in 2025, while the Algarve, world-renowned for its beautiful beaches and quaint towns, has been identified as the 4th fastest growing luxury real estate market in the world, according to a recent Knight Frank report, an impressive 12.3 percent increase over the past year alone in growth. Porto, which has the glorious Douro River running up alongside it, is another stand-out city that has also got luxury lifestyle and property buyers taking in recent years. The luxury real estate market in Porto is projected to continue to thrive in the coming years.

Looking to buy property in Portugal? Check out our ultimate buying guide.

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Why do you need a real estate agent in Portugal?

In this part of our Real Estate Agent Portugal article, we’ll answer the key question – why do you need a real estate agent in Portugal? Why not simply go it alone? Well, given the wealth of their knowledge on the Portuguese real estate market, local tips and tricks, and being able to provide you with access to a greater range of properties, there are many important reasons why you should seek expert guidance.

GC-ICON-17Market expertise

Entering the Portuguese property market, you’re unlikely to have a firm grasp of what’s on offer, ballpoint prices, investment potential, and a comprehensive overview of the different neighborhoods and regions to consider.

Real estate agents have this knowledge. The top real estate agents in Portugal and buyer’s agents will also have an extensive database, whereby they will have access to property listings that are not available elsewhere on the Portuguese real estate market. Unlike in the USA, for example, where you have all the properties listed on a public database, in Portugal, there is no such database, and it can be incredibly difficult to find out exactly what is out there and whether the seller is asking for a fair price. Working with Portugal real estate agents, you’ll be able to tap into agencies’ extensive local experience and save time in the process nd money in the long run.

Personalized property matching

The best real estate agent in Portugal will tailor their search specifically to your requirements, taking into consideration your requirements and needs. For example, if you are moving with family and seeking out a property that is situated close to an international school, they’ll give you options for properties in the school catchment area.

GC-ICON-13Navigating legal and financial processes

A realtor in Portugal will liaise with your real estate lawyer, ensuring that you meet all the legal requirements, specifically helping with:

  • Making sure all legal documentation is correct for the property purchase
  • Collaborating with real estate lawyers, the seller, and other relevant stakeholders
  • Ensuring the property has had the necessary checks and inspections and that there are no unresolved debts
  • Ensuring the property owner’s identity and that they are legally allowed to sell the property
  • Assisting in the creation and execution of contracts
  • Ensuring you are fully aware when you need to make the required payments, such as with the Reservation Agreement and the Promissory Contract

How to Find a Real Estate Agent in Portugal

A property is a significant investment. You’ll want to work with a real estate agent that you trust and that you have a connection with to assist you in uncovering your dream property at the best price. In this section of our Real Estate Agent Portugal article, we provide some insights into how to find a real estate agent in Portugal for you.

Identifying your real estate needs

The first step is to clearly define your requirements to understand what time of property you are looking for and what you want to get out of your property purchase. To do this, get to grips with the Portuguese real estate market, including price ranges, property types, and potential locations where you’d like to buy a property. You can do this using property portals and using other online sources. Following this initial research, you can then conduct online searches and look on real estate websites to scout out potential real estate agents. if you are looking for luxury real estate, you’ll find a range of stunning properties across Portugal – the real estate sector has much to offer.

There are many investment properties in Portugal to choose from, whether you are looking to buy in the stunning Algarve or the cosmopolitan capital of Lisbon. You will also find beautiful properties in Setúbal, close to Lisbon. To find out how to find an expert to guide you to your dream home here, check out our article on how to find a real estate agent in Setúbal, Portugal. One of the most important steps that shouldn’t be rushed is determining which part of Portugal you wish to live in.

GC-ICON-71Searching for agents

When seeking a real estate professional to work with, if you have recommendations from family, friends, or acquaintances, then this can be a good place to start. When you’ve carried out sufficient research, you can make a list of potential real estate agents in Portugal. You can also do a quick online search for “real estate agency Portugal” or “real estate agent Portugal” to get an overview of the real estate agents out there and the services they offer.

Once you have made a list of the top real estate agents in Portugal, you can begin narrowing down your search. You can do this by checking their credentials, in addition to testimonials and reviews made by international clients. Ensure that the Portugal real estate agent speaks both English and Portuguese, has good local knowledge of the market, and has an adequate level of responsiveness.

Finding an English-speaking real estate agent in Portugal is not as difficult as most agencies have bilingual consultants. Portugal real estate agents can act as property hunters and assist you by providing you with a variety of properties that meet your requirements.

Evaluating potential agents

The fact that the real estate market is in a constant state of motion, it is important to understand the intricacies and the factors at play. For this, the expertise of an experienced local agent is incredibly important for a successful purchase. They will have the latest data on their side, utilize the latest technologies, and be able to provide local tips to streamline the process or suggest prospective locations you had not considered previously.

Criteria

Evaluation

Language Proficiency

Do they speak English?

Experience with International Buyers

Can they provide project data proving experience?

Property Market Insight

Do they have an exceptional understanding of the Portuguese real estate market to provide expert investment advice and services?

Focus on Real Estate in Portugal

Is their service focused on real estate in Portugal?

Track Record of Excellence and Communication

Do they maintain contact and have a track record of excellence?

Business Credentials

Do they have business credentials to share with clients?

AMI License Number

Do they have an AMI license number?

Alignment of Company Values

Do their company values align with your interests?

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

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Real Estate Agent versus a Buyer's Agent

The primary distinction between a real estate and a buyer’s agent lies in the representation of the parties involved. A buyer’s agent solely advocates for the buyer, facilitating their property purchase and providing a personalized service tailored towards the buyer’s needs.

On the other hand, a real estate agent is dedicated to serving the seller. While a real estate agent will likely have your best interests at heart, this is worth bearing in mind when purchasing property in Portugal. This is a key reason why choosing a good buyer’s agent over a buyer’s agent can be a smart decision over other real estate professionals.

Factors

Real Estate Agent

Buyer's Agent

Work Scope

Facilitates transactions for various parties

Exclusively works for the buyer throughout the process

Search & Selection Assistance

May present options, but not solely focused on buyer's needs

Focuses on finding options that suit the buyer best

Representation

Represents the seller's interests primarily

Solely represents the buyer's interests

Conducting Legal Checks

May overlook some legal checks for buyer's benefit

Ensures thorough legal checks for buyer's protection

Language Assistance

Language proficiency may vary

Proficient in the buyer's language

Negotiation

Represents seller's interests in negotiation

Negotiates exclusively for buyer's benefit

Documentation Handling

May not prioritize all necessary documentation

Ensures all required documentation is in order

Time and Cost Savings

May not optimize for time and cost efficiency

Saves time and money by focusing on buyer's needs

Commission

Earns higher commission for higher sale prices

Does not earn based on sale price, focused on buyer

Step-by-Step Guide for Your Property Journey

document signatureLooking to snap up your dream property in Portugal but want a complete overview of the key stages in the buying process? We’ve got you covered.

Working with a buyer’s agent like Goldcrest or a real estate agency can make it relatively simple to find your ideal home in Portugal.

Bear in mind that to buy property in Portugal, you will need to have a Portuguese tax number (NIF number), which you can easily obtain from your local Finanças (tax office) or online. If you are a non-EU national, you will need to have a fiscal representative by your side to get a NIF in Portugal. Below, we delve into the key steps that you’ll need to follow for a simple home-buying experience.

  • Step 1: Schedule a consultation with your chosen real estate agent or buyer’s agent. You should also work with a real estate lawyer to ensure that all legal requirements are met. At Goldcrest, we can provide you with a trusted property lawyer who can ensure that all legal aspects are taken care of.
  • Step 2: Your agent will conduct a tailored proeprty search and organize viewings on your behalf.
  • Step 3: After reviewing the shortlisted properties and when you have settled on the property that you’d like to purchase, you can submit an offer with the help of your real estate agent.
  • Step 4: When the offer is accepted by the seller, your agent will guide you through the legal paperwork and the necessary formalities.
  • Step 5: Finalize the property purchase with the help of your real estate agent, making sure all the contract and legal documents and signed.
  • Step 6: You’re officially a homeowner in Portugal.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to real estate agencies, and the right real estate agent for you may be very different from another buyer. As we’ve mentioned, it can be a smart move to work with a buyer’s agent who works on behalf of the buyer and ensures their interests are met, while Portugal real estate agents usually work on behalf of the seller.

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon. We provide expert, impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Portugal. From scouting out your dream property through to property acquisition, we have you covered throughout the 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 real estate doubts, helping you with the property search and offering insightful expertise and strategic advice.

Why choose Goldcrest?

  • Local knowledge: With offices located across Portugal, our presence nationwide allows us to assist you personally across the country.
  • Independent service: As an independent buying agent, we do not represent any development or project. Our personalized service is entirely tailored toward each individual client, providing you with everything you need to secure the perfect property at the best possible price. As an impartial advisor on the market, we work solely on behalf of our client and provide a service tailored to your needs and requirements.
  • Streamlined process: Our real estate agents speak English and Portuguese, and our service is completely focused on providing you with a hassle-free buying experience, saving you time.
  • Experienced team: Our expert real estate team has a vast local knowledge of the Portuguese property market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at your disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best investment choices and negotiated prices.
  • Network of partners: We have a close network of partners, including lawyers, property management services, builders, architects, designers, and landscape gardeners, again saving you time and hassle by providing you with trusted experts in their field of work.

You can read more here: Why Work With Goldcrest to Buy Property in Portugal?

Frequently Asked Questions about How to Find a Top Real Estate Agent in Portugal

In Portugal, a buyer’s agent represents the buyer exclusively, ensuring a hassle-free property purchase, and provides assistance throughout the process, from sourcing your dream property through to acquisition. In contrast, a seller’s agent works for the seller. They are focused on real estate sales. While they will probably have your best interests at heart, this crucial difference is a key reason why working with a buyer’s agent may be a good idea to secure the right investment for your needs and ensure you have all the information required to make an informed decision.

In order to operate legally in Portugal, an estate agent be certified by INCI (Instituto da Construcao e do Imobiliario) and have an AMI license number. Real estate agencies are strictly regulated, making it easy to confirm the credentials of an agent. You can check whether real estate companies in Portugal are certified on the IMPIC website.

Working with a real estate agent or a realtor in Portugal ensures expert guidance on property laws, real estate market insights, and makes the entire process of snapping up your dream home in the country much easier. Agents streamline the buying process, negotiate favorable terms, and their local expertise can be invaluable for smooth transactions. For example, if you are looking for a real estate agent in Alentejo, or in Lisbon, find professionals who have helped foreign buyers purchase their dream home in these locations.

Bear in mind that it can be a better move to work with a buyer’s agent, who works on behalf of the buyer, while expat real estate agents in Portugal typically work on behalf of the seller.

To discover a top-notch real estate agent in Lisbon, Portugal, conduct thorough online research – a quick online search for “best real estate agent Portugal” will help you see what services are available on the market. Following this, scrutinize client feedback, seek local recommendations, and conduct interviews to assess their capabilities and professionalism. Most real estate agents have a vast knowledge of the market and are well-versed in helping international clients discover their dream homes in Portugal. Real estate agents in Portugal can also assist with post-sale services, such as property management.

To locate an experienced real estate agent in Porto, Portugal, research reputable agencies, consider agents with a history of successful deals, ask for referrals, and interview real estate agencies to assess their experience and knowledge of the local market. Porto, which has the stunning Douro River running through it, is one of the most scenic cities in Europe. 

To locate a top real estate agent in Algarve, Portugal, conduct online research on reputable agencies, seek agents with specialized Algarve expertise, obtain recommendations from locals or expats, and conduct interviews with the real estate company to evaluate their knowledge and professionalism.

To find a reputable real estate agent on Portugal’s Silver Coast, seek recommendations from local expat groups, review agent profiles, and check for AMI certification, ensuring legal authorization. Find an agent who has extensive experience working with buyer profiles similar to your own and vast knowledge of the property market.

There is no Zillow Portugal, but you will find other property portals where you can find ballpoint prices and property types. The fact that there is no one place to find all the properties available makes it difficult for buyers. The best solution is to work with a real estate expert who will have access to properties not listed online to ensure you have complete to the market.

In Portugal, estate agent commission typically ranges from 3 percent to 6 percent of the property’s sale price. This cost will vary depending on the region and the specific services provided by the agent. It’s important to note that real estate agents in Portugal typically work on behalf of the seller, while a buyer’s agent solely advocates for the buyer, facilitating their property purchase and providing a personalized service tailored towards the buyer’s needs. Therefore, it can be a smarter move to opt to work with a buyer’s agent.

Yes, US citizens can buy property in Portugal without restrictions. The process involves obtaining a Portuguese tax number (NIF), opening a local bank account, and following standard legal procedures. As a US national, you will need to have a fiscal representative to get a NIF number in Portugal.

Yes, Portugal offers a strong real estate market with diverse opportunities, from modern city apartments to spacious properties by the ocean. Many cities and regions have strong rental yields, including Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, and Cascais. In 2025, there is strong potential for capital appreciation in many parts of Portugal, while the country continues to cement itself as a key player when it comes to luxury real estate – for example, Lisbon’s luxury property market is projected to appreciate by 4.5 percent in 2025.