Updated: June 2, 2025

 

Buying property in Cascais, Portugal, is an excellent investment, where you’ll be welcomed by a high quality of life, robust infrastructure, excellent healthcare and education options, and an affluent lifestyle. You’re strategically located close to Lisbon, but can enjoy the perks that come with living in a charming seaside town with fabulous beaches. 

In this comprehensive article, we offer insights into buying property in Cascais, Portugal, including navigating the essential steps to purchasing property, top locations, and how to find your ideal home. 

Property for Sale in Cascais, Lisbon: An Overview

Real estate in Cascais

Before buying property in Cascais, Portugal, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the real estate market and background of this charming seaside town.

Cascais welcomes international investors and expats with excellent infrastructure, top amenities, and high-quality healthcare and education. The seaside town is a vibrant hub with an array of bars, dining delights, and a pulsating nightlife, radiating an irresistible holiday charm and making it one of the the best property investment opportunites in 2025 for those seeking a profitable investment or a well-rounded luxurious lifestyle on the Portugal coast.

According to Confidencial Imobiliário, the Portuguese real estate market intelligence unit, the average property price in Cascais reached €7,260 per square meter in 2024.

For those eyeing investment properties with plans to rent the home out during the popular summer holiday season, Cascais boasted a commendable 5.5 percent growth in gross rental income yields in the same year.

Cascais Property for Sale: Why buy property in Cascais?

Whether you’re in search of a private detached house with a swimming pool in a quiet suburb or a modern apartment by the coast, Cascais offers real estate listings that cater to every lifestyle.

Homes for sale in Cascais, Portugal, have the added benefit of being in proximity to the country’s capital city of Lisbon (just a short 30-minute drive away), with popular beaches, and 13 excellent international schools.

Can foreigners buy property in Cascais?

Foreign investors and expats are free to buy properties in Cascais or anywhere in Portugal. The Portuguese government actively encourages foreign ownership, and the buying process is largely straightforward and transparent.

Key reasons to buy property in the Cascais region

Buying property in Cascais  

Besides the allure of the stunning coastline and the convenient location near the Portuguese capital and Estoril, there are a number of reasons that make property investment in the Cascais region an attractive option.

Although Cascais property and the relaxed lifestyle tend to be more on the luxurious and expensive side compared to other parts of the country, property and the cost of living are still competitively affordable when compared to luxury hotspots in other European countries and sought-after destinations across the globe.

In 2025, Cascais remains a smart move for property investors looking to secure a strong return on their investment but also for families and lifestyle buyers looking to have the very best of Portugal on their doorstep.

You can keep up to date with the latest from Cascais on the Cascais Municipality website.

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Property for Sale Cascais, Portugal: Where to buy property in Cascais?

From the luxury of Cascais and Estoril to the tranquil charm of São Domingos de Rana, each area in Cascais offers property buyers something slightly different to meet their lifestyle and investment needs.

You will find a selection of many properties, from modern apartments and luxury villas surrounded by the calm waters of the yacht marina to prime beachfront properties and quaint detached houses in quiet suburbs offering a simple yet luxurious lifestyle with access to the coast and the best golf courses.

GC-ICON-95Cascais and Estoril

From the luxury of Cascais and Estoril to the tranquil charm of São Domingos de Rana, each area in Cascais offers property buyers something slightly different to meet their lifestyle and investment needs.

You will find a selection of many properties, from modern apartments and luxury villas surrounded by the calm waters of the yacht marina to prime beachfront properties and quaint detached houses in quiet suburbs offering a simple yet luxurious lifestyle with access to the coast and the best golf courses.

GC-ICON-95São Domingos de Rana

In the São Domingos de Rana area, you can find a more affordable house for sale and live in a close community with a historical background. You can also make the most of your close proximity to Lisboa, making it a strategically attractive choice. Here, you can enjoy proximity to beautiful beaches while living in a quieter suburb still connected to modern amenities.

GC-ICON-95Alcabideche

Alcabideche is one of Portugal’s perfect neighborhoods for beach lovers and adventure seekers. Nestled between Cascais and Estoril, Alcabideche is close to the picturesque Sintra National Park, which attracts visitors to this area with its natural beauty, making it a smart investment for renting your property.

GC-ICON-95Carcavelos and Parede

Carcavelos and Parede offer the best of both worlds: Stunning beaches that are the avid surfer’s paradise and tranquil residential pockets, perfecting the closely located areas’ laid-back atmosphere. Together, the exquisite beaches are complemented by waterfront dining options and panoramic sea views, creating a lifestyle of seaside sophistication. Carcavelos is also a popular surfing spot for residents of Cascais and Lisbon.

Looking to relocate to Cascais? We have you covered

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How to Buy Property in Cascais: A Step-by-Step Guide

Below, we guide you through the essential steps and legal intricacies involved in seeking Cascais property for sale and making your foreign property ownership dreams a reality – from finding and financing your ideal investment property to negotiating the best deal and securing your dream home.

Step

Description

Step 1: Secure financing for your property

Assess your finances, explore mortgage options from Portuguese banks, and understand associated costs such as taxes, legal fees, and property registration expenses.

Step 2: Find the perfect property

Set a budget and research the Portuguese real estate market, focusing on location, amenities, and rental potential. Seek guidance from real estate professionals like buyer's agents or real estate agents.

Step 3: Make an offer

Once you find a suitable property, negotiate an offer with the seller, potentially facilitated by a real estate professional. Consider having a buyer's agent representing your best interests during negotiations.

Step 4: Reservation Agreement and CPCV

After an offer is accepted, a Reservation Agreement may require a refundable fee. The Promissory Contract (CPCV) then formalizes the promise of acquiring the property, usually with a deposit required of 10-25 percent, although this is agreed between the two parties. We recommend signing the CPCV in front of a Notary.

Step 5: Signing the Escritura

The Escritura, or Final Deed, officially transfers property ownership. Signed before a Notary, it involves paying remaining balances and fees. After signing, the buyer becomes the official owner, concluding the process.

Requirements for a Successful Property Purchase

An essential part of the Cascais real estate investment process is applying for a Portuguese NIF number and opening a bank account. These two requirements will also be helpful for any other transactions you need to complete in the country.

Portuguese tax number

You will need a Portugal NIF number (tax identification number) to open a bank account in Portugal. You can apply for the NIF number yourself at your local tax office or get an attorney to assist you. If you are a non-EU citizen, you will need to have a fiscal representative.

Portuguese bank account

When buying property in Cascais, Portugal, it is recommended that you open a Portuguese bank account to avoid hefty international transaction fees. There are a variety of Portuguese banks to consider, many of which also offer mortgages to foreign buyers.

House for Sale Cascais Lisbon: Required Documents

Once you start the purchase process, it is vital to have all the essential documents ready to ensure the property purchase journey is seamless and your purchase offer is eligible and legally compliant with Portuguese real estate law. Working with a real estate lawyer in Cascais will prove to be an invaluable asset, ensuring that you have all your documents and complete the necessary due diligence checks.

To buy property in Cascais, you will need the following documents: 

  • Photo ID
  • Proissory Contract (Contrato Promessa de Compra e Venda (CPCV))
  • Energy Certificate
  • Imposto de Selo (Stamp Duty)
  • Caderneta Predial (Land Registry document)

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How to Finance Your Cascais Property Purchase

Here, we look at how to plan your budget and the financing options Portugal offers for buying a home.

Create a budget

Putting together a detailed budget that takes the various costs into account, from initial application fees to property taxes, is essential. If you need to finance your purchase, bear in mind that for Portuguese residents, mortgage deposits usually range between 10 percent and 20 percent. In comparison, non-residents typically require around 30-40 percent of the property value as a deposit.

Your property financing options

If you have capital, one-off payments on your property purchase price will be possible. However, there is also a great selection of mortgage options available from financial service providers, including BBVA, Santander, Banco Best, Bankinter, and Banco CTT. Visit each website and do some research before weighing your options.

Mortgages in Cascais, Portugal

Mortgage processes in Portugal need to comply with the Bank of Portugal regulations. Getting a mortgage in Portugal involves approaching banks or mortgage lenders to request an initial estimate. While residents enjoy broader borrowing options, non-residents face different criteria. The maximum amount you can borrow is determined by the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, which compares the loan amount to the property’s value used as collateral.

In Portugal, fiscal residents can have an LTV of up to 90 percent for their primary residence or permanent home and up to 80 percent for a secondary or holiday home. This ratio is based on the lower value of either the purchase price or the bank’s appraisal value. For non-residents, the maximum loan-to-mortgage ratio is around 60-70 percent of the property purchase price (or bank appraisal), but this can also vary depending on the bank.

Types of mortgages

Fixed-rate mortgages come with a premium but offer stability, protecting against rate changes. Variable-rate mortgages, tied to the Euribor, provide fluctuating rates. Monthly payments fluctuate over time, and early repayments might incur a small charge on the repaid capital. You also have mixed-rate mortgages, which are very popular in 2025, providing a balance between fixed and variable-rate mortgages.

Buying a House in Cascais, Portugal: Property Taxes

Navigating the property purchasing process in Portugal entails so much more than finding the perfect house and buying it. There are property taxes you will have to pay for property acquisition and ownership in Portugal. To ensure that you understand the tax implications relevant to your situation, we recommend seeking the assistance of a tax advisor.

Taxes to consider at the time of purchase

Below, we outline the taxes that you will need to consider when purchasing property.

Property Purchase Tax (IMT)

The IMT (Municipal Tax on Onerous Transmissions of Real Estate) is a transfer tax applied to the purchase price of property in Portugal, ranging from 0-10 percent. The 0-8 percent range depends on factors such as the property’s price, location, type, and intended use (permanent 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. Our Portugal property tax calculator can help you calculate the IMT (property transfer tax) on your potential property.

Stamp Duty

The Stamp Duty (Imposto do Selo) is an additional transaction tax charged by the Portuguese state for real estate transfers. It amounts to 0.8 percent of the deed’s total value and must be paid at the time of purchase.

Taxes to consider on an annual basis

Below, we outline the taxes that you will need to bear in mind on an annual basis.

Municipal Property Tax (IMI)

The IMI (Municipal Property Tax) is an annual tax whose amount is determined by the municipality where the property is located. Municipal Councils can set the IMI rate for properties within their jurisdiction, within government-specified limits. Consequently, the IMI for urban buildings can range from 0.3 percent to 0.45 percent of the Tax Asset Value (VPT), and in exceptional cases, it can reach up to 0.5 percent. For rustic buildings, the applicable rate is 0.8 percent.

AIMI (Additional to IMI)

AIMI is a post-purchase tax that applies to property worth more than €600,000. There are three levels of taxation based on property value:

  • 0.7 percent tax for properties valued between €600,001 and €1 million
  • 1 percent tax for properties valued between €1 million and €2 million
  • 1.5 percent tax applied to property worth more than €2 million

Capital Gains Tax

Capital gains refer to the profit made from the sale of property that may be subject to taxation. When you sell your Portuguese property, you will need to submit the purchase details to the tax authorities for a capital gains assessment. If you reinvest the total selling price in a new home, and it is your primary residence, you may be exempt from capital gains tax. Our article, Property Taxes in Portugal 2025: An Overview, is a comprehensive guide to property tax in Portugal that you may find beneficial.

Additional Property Purchase Costs to Consider

When preparing to purchase property in Cascais, Portugal, it’s crucial to factor in the various one-off costs essential for the transaction.

Below is an estimation of the additional property costs that you can expect.

  • Legal fees: Anticipate legal fees ranging from €2,000 to €5,000, depending on factors such as the type of property, the price, the complexity of the purchase, and the lawyer’s experience.
  • Land registry fee: A fee of €200 to €250 is required for the Land Registry.
  • Notary fees: Budget around €500 to €1,000 for notary fees.

Additionally, be mindful of mortgage costs if you plan to obtain financing for your property purchase.

Take a look at our definitive guide to buying property in Portugal

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Is it worth buying property in Cascais?

Cascais property remains one of the most sought-after real estate markets in Portugal in 2025, especially among luxury real estate buyers and high-net-worth individuals.

There are many good reasons for buying property in Portugal, with Cascais standing out as one of the best locations. Some of these key advantages include:

  • There are no restrictions on foreign property ownership.
  • Investing in a dynamic market with a high return on investment and rental income potential
  • Low cost of living compared with other countries in Western Europe
  • Incredible climate with incredible summers and mild winters
  • Top-quality education at international schools and high-quality healthcare services

Finding Properties in Cascais, Portugal

If you are on the hunt for Cascais property for sale, it is important to know that the real estate market in Portugal is fragmented, and there is no one location to find all the properties on the market.

While you should take the time to understand the real estate market in Cascais and get to grips with property types and property prices, nothing will beat working with real estate professionals in the field when scouting out the very best Cascais homes for sale.

You should bear in mind that real estate agents in Portugal work on behalf of the buyer and will, therefore, get a higher commission for a higher sale. As such, working with a buyer’s agent can be a better option and ensure you get great value for your property. Make sure the real estate agent or buyer’s agent you work with has an AMI license from IMPIC, a license required to conduct real estate brokerage in Portugal.

Discover Your Dream Property with Goldcrest

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent based in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Equipped with local knowledge, exclusive networks, and international experience, we provide expert, impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Cascais, Portugal.

From scouting real estate listings to finding the perfect property through to property acquisition, we have you covered throughout the process.

Our team of skilled experts is available to cater to all your real estate needs, offering insightful expertise and strategic advice. Contact us to schedule a complimentary call today.

Frequently Asked Questions about Buying Property in Cascais

As a US citizen, you are allowed to buy property in Cascais, along with property anywhere else in Portugal, without any restrictions. Cascais, Portugal, welcomes foreign investors and has a straightforward property acquisition process.

Working with a real estate lawyer is not a strict requirement for investing in property in Cascais, Portugal. However, seeking professional legal services specialized in property law is recommended if you want to ensure your purchase process is compliant with Portuguese laws and as seamless as possible.

Other costs besides the property’s asking price must be factored in. These include notary service and registration fees, attorney fees, transfer tax (IMT), stamp duty fees, and potential expenses related to the land registry.

The deposit for the property usually lies between 10 and 25 percent of the purchase price, depending on whether the mortgage offer is accepted. However, to be safe, non-residents and foreign buyers should budget 30 percent of the property purchase price for the deposit payment on a property in Cascais, Portugal.

Property in the beautiful Cascais region is more expensive than in many other areas of the country. In 2024, the average asking price for a house in Cascais was €7,260 per square meter.

However, it is still relatively affordable when you factor in the beauty and luxury the popular coastline offers. With a bit of research and the right help, you will be able to find more affordable and cheap real estate listings.

Besides the beauty, tranquility, and safe lifestyle Cascais offers, buying property here can bring worthwhile returns on property investment through the vibrant tourism sector or rental income.

The high quality of life and activities on offer, such as the top-quality golf courses and water sports activities, add to its appeal, alongside excellent international schools, attracting families to the town and surrounding area.

Many English-speaking expats from around the world live in Cascais, Estoril, Carcavelos, Parede, and Alcabideche. From families seeking top international schools to retirees looking for the perfect spot to retire, Cascais continues to catch the attention of international looking for the ultimate relocation spot.

You can begin your search for beachfront properties online by visiting online listing sites and real estate agency sites in Cascais. A quick search for “homes for sale Cascais Portugal” or “property for sale Cascais” will provide you with an overview of the market, including property types available and ballpoint property prices.

Once you have an idea of what you are looking for, your price range, and the area you prefer, contact a real estate agent for assistance with the process.

A buyer’s agent like Goldcrest will also be of great value as they will have access to exclusive listings through their network and solely work on your behalf as the buyer.

There are a number of potential pitfalls when buying property in Cascais, which is why seeking the professional services of a buyer’s agent is highly recommended. Possible issues may include legal complexities with property title deeds or debts attached to the property, or missing vital information pertaining to local regulations or tax laws.

Foreigners purchasing property should be aware of both purchase-related and annual taxes.

At the time of purchase, you will need to pay the Property Purchase Tax/Property Transfer Tax (IMT) and Stamp Duty.

Annually, the Municipal Property Tax (IMI) is required. Additionally, if you plan to sell your property, consider the Capital Gains Tax.

Calculated based on the property’s value or declared amount in the deed, the IMT (Municipal Tax on Onerous Transmissions of Real Estate) is a property transfer tax that needs to be paid before the purchase is completed. The property transfer tax rate varies from 0 to 8 percent based on factors like property type, location, purchase price, and intended use.

A fixed rate of 10 percent applies if the buyer is linked to territories with favorable tax schemes, known as blacklisted jurisdictions.

Estoril, Monte Estoril, and Quinta da Marinha are among the best neighborhoods in Cascais. You will find a wide range of homes for sale in Cascais Portugal offering luxury residences, excellent amenities, and proximity to popular beaches and golf courses.

The average asking property price in Cascais reached €7,260 per square meter in 2024. Note that this is the asking price, and the sales price is often significantly lower than this as the seller aims to sell by a set date.

To buy property in Cascais, follow these steps:

  1. Determine your financing options and define your requirements.
  2. Find your ideal property
  3. Negotiate the price with the seller.
  4. Sign the Reservation Agreement, followed by the Promissory Contract.
  5. Complete the purchase by signing the Escritura (Final Deed), which transfers property ownership to you.

Foreigners can freely purchase property in Cascais or anywhere in Portugal. Key legal requirements include obtaining a Portuguese tax number (NIF), and it’s recommended to open a Portuguese bank account to reduce transaction costs. To ensure a smooth and successful buying process, it’s advisable to work with a real estate lawyer in Portugal and a real estate agent.

To find a reliable real estate agent when looking for houses for sale in Cascais, Portugal, seek out agents with positive reviews, local expertise, and proper certifications. Recommendations from friends, family, and expat communities are invaluable for identifying top real estate agencies. Additionally, consider companies that have experience assisting expats in similar situations to your own.

Yes, there are more than fifteen banks in Portugal that provide mortgages for foreigners in Portugal, with some of the best banks to offer financing including Millennium BCP, Novo Banco, Banco BPI, and Banco Santander Totta.

Research market conditions, be informed about comparable property prices, and use a local agent to assist in negotiations for the best deal. Bear in mind that real estate agents work on behalf of the seller and will get a higher commission for a higher sale. As such, working with a buyer’s agent can be the more attractive option as they solely represent you and ensure you secure the best property at the best price.

The Cascais market is experiencing steady growth, driven by increasing demand, limited supply, and continued high interest from international buyers.

Cascais’ property market is strong and dynamic, like the property markets in both Lisbon and Porto. Property prices in Cascais stand at €7,260 in Cascais per square meter, compared to €6,934 in Lisbon City and €4,883 in Porto City. Rental yields in Cascais stand at 5.5 in Cascais, while in the cities of Lisbon and Porto they stand at 5.2 and 5.9, respectively.

Buying luxury real estate in Cascais involves identifying prime properties, securing financing, conducting thorough due diligence, and negotiating purchase terms. Working with experienced real estate agents and lawyers familiar with the luxury market is crucial.

The rental market in Cascais is robust, driven by tourism and expats. Properties near the beach or high-end luxury properties for sale in Cascais command higher rents. Rental yields in Cascais stand at 5.5 percent.

Finding the best property deals in Cascais requires monitoring market trends, working with reputable local agents, and being ready to act quickly on opportunities. It is worth working with a buyer’s agent who will be able to pinpoint properties that meet your criteria, negotiate the best price on your behalf, and ensure you do not miss out on the property that has caught your attention.

The fantastic quality of life in Cascais has certainly driven up property prices as more foreign buyers and locals eye up property here, with world-class golf courses and water sports adding to its appeal.

Cascais offers an exceptional quality of life with its stunning coastline, safety, excellent international schools, and vibrant cultural scene. This drives strong demand, positively influencing property values.

Cascais is more expensive than other parts of Portugal due to its coastal location and quality of life. While housing costs are higher, daily expenses like food, healthcare, and transport remain relatively affordable compared to other seaside areas in Western Europe.

Yes, foreigners can freely buy property in Portugal with no restrictions. The process is straightforward, and many non-residents purchase homes for relocation, retirement, or investment. It’s recommended to work with a real estate professional and a real estate lawyer for a successful purchase.