Updated: May 6, 2025

 

Lisbon has positioned itself as one of the best Western European cities to purchase property. The Portuguese capital’s compelling charm and the strength of the property market have drawn experts from across the globe, whether they are seeking a strong investment or are in search of a better quality of life.

In this article, we provide a complete overview of buying property in Lisbon, from highlighting the best areas to purchase property to navigating the buying process with ease.

Why buy property in Lisbon?

Often depicted as the perfect holiday location, with a sublime climate, friendly locals, and beautiful beaches, Lisbon offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, set in the historic setting of narrow streets, grand praças, and colorful houses.

 

High quality of life

Lisbon has a unique charm to it, with a high quality of life, easy access to beautiful beaches, and top international schools and healthcare options. The city continually attracts expats and investors from all walks of life. More than 1,044,606 foreign nationals now call Portugal home, with Lisbon being the most sought-after spot.

Strong ROI potential

Buying real estate in Lisbon is a smart investment, whether you are seeking a strong rental yield or capital appreciation. Euronews has recently pinpointed Lisbon as the sixth most profitable city to invest in real estate, based on rental yields.

Lisbon’s Luxury market is exploding in 2025

Lisbon’s luxury market has cemented itself as one of the strongest in the world in recent years, with the city now taking 4th place in the ranking of European cities with the greatest potential for appreciation in 2025, surpassing cities such as Monaco, Geneva, Paris, and Milan.

Can foreigners buy property in Portugal?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Lisbon, with there being no restrictions on who can purchase property in Portugal. To navigate the legal complexities and ensure a smooth transaction, we recommend working with a property lawyer, alongside having a real estate professional to guide you through the process and ensure you get the best deal possible.

It’s important to note that owning property does not automatically allow you to stay in Portugal long-term. If you want to stay in the country, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit.

Lisbon's Real Estate Market: An Overview

buying real estate in lisbonOver the past few years, Lisbon real estate investment has become more attractive to foreign investors and expats in search of reasonable property prices and promising property value.

Due to the continued popularity of the capital city as a major tourist hub, alongside interest in foreign ownership, the average asking price for property in the city of Lisbon increased to €6,934 per square meter in 2024, while in the Greater Lisbon Area, the average asking price was €4,935.

It is worth bearing in mind that prices are generally higher the closer you are to the city center. However, there are other affordable areas in Portugal, too; for example, buying property in Porto will offer slightly lower prices.

The Portuguese real estate market intelligence unit, Confidencial Imobiliário, reported significant increases in the percentage of gross rental yields on property in Lisbon in 2024. Rent prices are quite high at the moment in Lisbon, with rental yields in some key neighborhoods shown below.

  • Alcântara: 5.4 percent
  • Arroios: 4.8 percent
  • Benfica: 5.9 percent
  • Estrela: 4.4 percent
  • Marvila: 4.8 percent
  • Penha de França: 5.9 percent

Where is the best place to buy property in Lisbon, Portugal?

Buying property in LisbonReal estate in Lisbon is one of the booming markets in Western Europe. Although, like most European countries, prices for residential properties have increased rapidly over the past few years, the depth of the Lisbon real estate market and the charm the capital city possesses still inspire investors and expats to buy property in Lisbon.

Areas with cheaper real estate prices include Benfica, Olivais, and Beato. If you are considering settling in a quieter area, consider Estrela. And if you are looking to be in a vibrant and multi-cultural neighborhood, Arroios is a safe bet.

You also have the futuristic neighborhood of Parque das Nações, which is reminiscent of Canary Wharf in London. And, of course, Misericórdia offers beautiful, elegant luxury, with Avenida da Liberdade, Príncipe Real, and parts of Chiado each offering their own unique ambiance. A real estate investment in Cascais is also very desirable, with this charming seaside town located just a 30-minute drive from Lisbon city center.

Regarding commercial property, while the city center provides several good options, you’ll find an array of opportunities to invest in commercial property across the city as Lisbon continues to attract companies, digital nomads, and tourists. Regardless of whether you choose to invest in residential and commercial properties, you’ll find plenty of options.

Property types in Lisbon

The property market in Lisbon is dynamic and varied. You’ll find an array of spectacular property types in Lisbon and along the Portuguese Riviera towards Cascais. From modern Lisbon apartments for sale with stunning views of the Tagus River to spacious villas and mansions, the depth of the Lisbon real estate market is extraordinary.

GC-ICON-93How to find Lisbon Portugal homes for sale

A good place to start is with online research, which will give you insight into the types of property available and ballpoint property prices. A quick property search for “buying a house in Lisbon” or “buy an apartment in Lisbon” will get you off to a good start. Following this, you can get in touch with a real estate expert to guide you through the buying process and pinpoint properties that match your exact requirements.

A buyer’s agent, such as Goldcrest, will have access to Lisbon properties for sale that cannot be found elsewhere and can secure the best deals. Buying an apartment in Lisbon, or a house, is much easier when you have an expert on the ground to assist you.

The key difference between real estate agents in Portugal and buyer’s agents is that real estate agents work on behalf of the seller and can get a higher commission for a higher sale. Meanwhile, a buyer’s agent solely works on behalf of the buyer, presenting no conflict of interest and improving your chances of finding the perfect property at the best possible price.

View our definitive guide to buying property in Portugal

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A Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Property in Lisbon, Portugal

The process of purchasing property in Lisbon, Portugal, is not as difficult as you may think. Many foreigners buy property in Lisbon, with mortgages available to foreigners looking to purchase a home.

In the table, we provide a concise step-by-step guide to buying property in Lisbon.

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) formalizes the promise of acquiring real estate between parties at a future date under pre-defined conditions and includes a deposit to secure the transaction. We recommend that the signing of the CPCV is done 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.

Buying Real Estate Lisbon: Requirements for a Successful Property Purchase

An essential part of the process when buying property in Lisbon and Portugal is applying for a Portuguese NIF number and opening a bank account.

Portuguese tax number

You will need a NIF, the Portuguese tax number, to open a bank account in Portugal and to make any significant financial transactions in the country. You can apply for a 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. To avoid having to go to the local tax office, you can also apply for your NIF number online. Our partner, Global Citizen Solutions, offers a comprehensive guide about how to get a tax identification number (NIF) in Portugal.

GC-ICON-52Portuguese bank account

When buying property in Lisbon Portugal, it is recommended to open a Portuguese bank account to avoid transaction fees when making your purchase. There are a variety of Portuguese banks to consider, many of which offer mortgages for foreign buyers.

Required Documents to Buy Property in Lisbon

Buying property in Lisbon documentsBefore you begin the process of buying property in Lisbon, Portugal, it is important to have all the essential documents ready to ensure the property purchase journey is seamless and legally compliant with the Portuguese property market and real estate laws.

Working with a real estate lawyer in Lisbon is essential. They will be an invaluable asset in making sure you have the correct documents. Due to the complexities of Portugeuse property law, they will review the transaction, commit to due diligence, and ensure everything is in order.

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

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

How to Buy Property in Lisbon: Financing Your New Home

If you have the capital, you can purchase a property in Lisbon with a once-off payment. However, there is also a great selection of mortgage options available from financial service providers, including BBVA, Santander, Banco Best, Bankinter, and Banco CTT.

It is important to understand if you will need a mortgage and, if so, what the mortgage options are in Portugal. The maximum one can borrow depends on the loan-to-value.

For residents with a fiscal number, the maximum one can borrow is 90 percent for a permanent home (80 percent for a second home). For non-residents, the maximum loan-to-value mortgage ratio is around 60-80 percent.

Exploring Taxes and Fees when Buying Property in Lisbon

Expats and locals both will need to pay taxes when purchasing property in Portugal. These additional real estate acquisition costs will either need to be paid at the time of purchase or on an annual basis following the purchase.

At the time of purchase

Below are the property taxes that you will need to consider when buying property in Portugal at the time of purchase.

Property purchase tax (IMT)

The (IMT) Imposto Municipal Sobre as Transmissões Onerosas de Imóveis (Municipal Tax on Onerous Transmissions of Real Estate) is a property transfer tax paid when purchasing Portuguese property.

The tax rate for this property purchase tax ranges from 0 to 10 percent and is applied to the property’s purchase price. The 0 to 8 percent range depends on factors such as the price, location, property type, and intended use of the property, for example, whether it will serve as a permanent residence or secondary housing. The 10 percent rate applies if the buyer has connections to territories with favorable taxation schemes, also known as blacklisted jurisdictions.

Stamp duty

Imposto do Selo (Stamp Tax) is an additional transaction tax that may need to be paid. Real estate transactions are usually subject to a rate of 0.8 percent.

Taxes after the property purchase

Below are the property taxes that you will need to bear in mind on an annual basis.

Municipal Property Tax (IMI)

The (IMI) Imposto Municipal sobre Imóveis (Municipal Property Tax or Immovable Property Tax) is an annual tax established annually by the municipality and is determined by the area in which your property is located. The amount is usually between 0.3 and 0.45 percent for urban properties (which can go up to 0.5 percent in certain situations) and 0.8 percent for rural properties. Note that the IMI is levied on the tax value of the property and not on the price paid for the property.

Additional to IMI (AIMI)

AIMI is a tax that you will need to pay if your property is valued at over €600,000. This will range from 0.7 to 1.5 percent, depending on the price.

A 0.7 percent tax applies to property valued between €600,001 and €1 million, a 1 percent tax on property valued between €1 million and €2 million, and a 1.5 percent tax on property valued above €2 million.

The €600,000 threshold is individual. For jointly owned property with a partner, the AIMI only applies if the property’s value exceeds €1.2 million.

Captial Gains Tax

If you sell your property in Portugal, you will be taxed on profits made from selling, known as Capital Gains Tax. There are exemptions to paying Capital Gains Tax should you choose to reinvest the money you got from the sale back into the Portuguese real estate market. For information on Capital Gains Tax, you can consult our article: Capital Gains Tax Portugal: Your Definitive Guide.

The Costs of Buying Property in Lisbon

When preparing to purchase property in Lisbon, Portugal, it’s crucial to factor in the various one-off costs essential for the transaction. These include Notary and registration fees, attorney fees, transfer tax (IMT), stamp duty fees, and land registry fees.

Pitfalls of Buying Property in Lisbon, Portugal

Buying property in Lisbon pitfallsWhen entering the property market in any country, there are pitfalls that can trip up even the most experienced property buyer.

Property location: Make sure that you are 100 percent happy with the location of the property and that it has access to all the services and amenities you need, such as restaurants, schools, or beautiful beaches. Visit the neighborhood at night also as a place can have a very different feel to it depending on when you visit.

Legal issues: We can’t stress enough the importance of working with an experienced property lawyer to make sure that the property purchase is stress-free and that you won’t face any legal battles further down the line. This includes checking out both the property itself and the seller to ensure they have the right to sell.

Taxes: We’ve mentioned the taxes that you’ll need to pay, but make sure you fully understand your tax requirements. You can always work with a tax accountant to make sure that everything is in order.

Title deed verification: Make sure you check the property title deeds to avoid any disputes or legal complications in the future. Again, a lawyer can help you with this.

Make sure the building has an administrative record: Buildings may have been constructed with no administrative record, and you may need to make sure that your purchase incorporates a “rectification process” to update the records and legitimize the existing structures that do not have proper planning permission. The difficulty here is often agreeing with the seller to sort this out and work out who should pay for it. A real estate professional will be able to advise you on the best way to proceed.

Is it worth buying property in Lisbon?

Buying a house in Lisbon There are many good reasons to invest in the Lisbon property market. Some of these key advantages include:

  • No restrictions on foreign property investment
  • Investing in a dynamic market with a high return on investment potential   
  • Low cost of living compared with other countries in Western Europe
  • Sublime climate with incredible summers and mild winters   
  • Top-quality education and healthcare services  
  • The luxury market is booming in 2025, with Lisbon’s price appreciation for luxury properties set to rise by 4.5 percent, surpassing Monaco, Geneva, Milan, and Paris.

Goldcrest: We Can Help You Find Your Dream Property

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Equipped with local knowledge, exclusive networks, and international experience, we provide expert, impartial advice on property investments and how to buy property in Lisbon, Portugal. From scouting out 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. Book a complimentary call with us today.

Frequently Asked Questions about Buying a House in Lisbon Portugal

There are no restrictions on buying a house in Portugal as a foreigner. However, if you are a non-EU citizen, you will need to have a valid residency permit to live in Portugal.

If you are looking for luxury homes when buying real estate in Lisbon, consider Avenida da Liberdade, Príncipe Real, and Baixa Chiado. Estela is good for families, Arroios is the hip neighborhood, and Parque das Nações offers a contemporary and futuristic vibe.

Cascais real estate is also an attractive option to find a beautiful house with sea views. When buying property anywhere, you should have a real estate agent and a lawyer by your side. For example, if you are thinking about buying property in Cascais, make sure to work with a real estate lawyer in Cascais and have a property specialist to ensure a smooth property purchase.

Although professional assistance is not strictly required to buy property in Lisbon, acquiring the services of an experienced real estate lawyer and English-speaking real estate agent or a buyer’s agent who has vital knowledge about Lisbon real estate, property in Portugal, and real estate market legalities is recommended.

Additional fees and hidden costs of buying property in Portugal include  Notary and registration fees, attorney fees, transfer tax (IMT), stamp duty fees, and potential expenses related to the land registry.

The deposit for Lisbon property usually lies between 10 to 25 percent of the purchase price, although this can be lower if both the seller and buyer agree.

Property in Portugal’s cosmopolitan capital city is highly sought-after and, therefore, it is more expensive to buy a house in Lisbon than in other parts of Portugal.

The average asking price for property in Lisbon was €6,934 per square meter, while in the Greater Lisbon Area, it was €4,935. If you know where to look, you should be able to find good deals.

In 2024 in Lisbon, the average asking price for property was €6,934 per square meter, while in the Greater Lisbon Area, the average asking price was €4,935. Property prices in Portugal vary according to the neighborhood you are looking to invest in and whether you are in search of a residential or commercial property. You will find cheap property more readily available as you move away from central Lisbon.

The most popular areas to buy property in Lisbon for expats include Alcântara and Anjos, which attract digital nomads and young professionals. Areas like Alfama and Graça offer authentic Portuguese charm and living experiences, while areas such as Estrela and Lapa are popular choices for families.

Start looking for beachfront properties online by visiting online listing websites and real estate agencies. Once you have an idea of what you are looking for and the location you are looking in, you can contact a real estate agent or buyer’s 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 several potential pitfalls you could encounter when buying property in Lisbon Portugal, which is why seeking the professional services of a buyer’s agent is highly recommended. Potential issues may include legal complexities with property title deeds or debts attached to the property, overlooking local regulations or tax laws, and unforeseen issues related to location.

While housing prices are higher, 2025 is a great year for foreign investors to invest in family properties or luxury properties in Lisbon, Portugal. This is due to the significant growth of rental income yields over the past few years.

Calculated based on the property’s purchase price 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 rate varies from 0 to 8 percent based on factors like property type, location, purchase price, and intended use.

Yes, foreigners buying property in Lisbon, Portugal, will face no restrictions.

Buying property in Lisbon is a good idea. Lisbon offers excellent investment potential with rising property values, a booming tourism industry, and a vibrant lifestyle, making it a lucrative choice for buyers seeking both short-term gains and long-term appreciation.

Families and retirees will also find the Portugeuse capital a charming destination to relocate to, while young professionals are also relocating to the city given its affordable prices, booming tech scene, incredible climate, and old-age charm.

While Lisbon’s housing market has seen significant appreciation, with property prices rising drastically in recent years, it remains attractive compared to other European capitals.

After a quick search for “buying real estate Lisbon” or “buy apartment Lisbon” to get to grips with the market, make sure to speak with real estate professionals for full market access. Property prices reflect the city’s growing popularity, but speaking with real estate experts can still uncover good value investment opportunities. You will find affordable prices should you move away from the city center and downtown Lisbon.

To buy property in Lisbon, you will need to have the following documents:

  • A Portuguese tax identification number (NIF)
  • A Portuguese bank account
  • Photo identification, like your passport
  • Proof of address
  • Contract of sale
  • Energy Performance certificate
  • Stamp tax
  • Land Registry document

The steps for buying property in Portugal are:

  1. Decide if you need a Portuguese mortgage
  2. Find your ideal property
  3. Negotiate terms
  4. Reservation Agreement
  5. Sign the Promissory Contract
  6. Finalize with the Escritura (Final Deed)

Initially, do a quick search for “buy house Lisbon” or “apartments for sale Lisbon” to understand the market, before getting in touch with property experts to guide you through the buying process outlined above and help you uncover properties that meet your exact requirements.

Find the best real estate agents by researching online reviews, seeking recommendations from locals or expatriates, and verifying their credentials. Look for agents with a deep understanding of the Lisbon market and who have helped expats in similar positions to yours. It’s worth bearing in mind that real estate agents in Portugal 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 better option as they work solely on behalf of the buyer, ensuring that your interests are protected.

There are more than fifteen banks in Portugal that offer mortgages for foreign buyers, offering variable and fixed rate mortgages. For non-residents in Portugal, the maximum loan-to-mortgage ratio is 60-70 percent on the purchase price (or bank appraisal), but this can very depending on the bank you opt for. 

When foreigners purchase property, they should be aware of both purchase and annual property taxes. At the time of purchase, you’ll need to pay Property Transfer Tax (IMT) and Stamp Duty. Annually, you’ll be responsible for paying Municipal Property Tax (IMI).

On top of this, bear in mind legal fees, real estate agent fees, Notary fees, and land registration fees.

Buying property in Portugal typically takes about 1-4 months. However, the timeline can vary, sometimes taking longer or even being quicker. This timeframe includes thorough due diligence, obtaining necessary documents, and fulfilling other requirements.

 

 

 

The real estate pathway of the Portugal Golden Visa is no longer available. There remain other options on the table, such as the popular Golden Visa investment funds route.

Negotiate real estate prices by researching market values, understanding the seller’s motivation, and being prepared to make a fair offer. Hiring a skilled real estate agent or buyer’s agent can help leverage their negotiation expertise. At Goldcrest, we work solely on your behalf to secure your ideal property at the best possible price.

Newly built houses offer modern amenities and lower maintenance, but may be pricier. Older houses offer historic charm and potential for renovation, but require more upkeep. It’s important that you consider your budget and long-term plans when deciding on which option is better suited to you.

To buy property in Lisbon, you will need:

  • Photo ID
  • Compra e Venda (CPCV): Promissory Contract
  • Energy Certificate
  • Imposto de Selo: Stamp Duty
  • Caderneta Predial: Land register document.

Manage maintenance and rentals by hiring a property management company, setting up regular inspections, and establishing clear rental agreements. Utilizing local services ensures smooth operations and protects your investment. Should you be looking for property management services, Goldcrest can assist with property set-up, property management and maintenance, and leasing of the property (for long-term rentals).

Find affordable options by exploring emerging neighborhoods and tapping into the expertise of local real estate agents or buyer’s agents to pinpoint particularly attractive real estate investment options in Lisbon.

Avoid pitfalls by having all the required documents with you, understanding local regulations, and hiring a reputable lawyer. Thorough due diligence will help you avoid legal issues, safeguarding your investment.

Non-EU citizens need a Portugeuse tax number (NIF) and a tax representative, and it is recommended to open a Portugeuse bank account to save on transaction fees.

The process involves the property search, securing financing, making an offer, signing a promissory contract, and finalizing the sale.

You will also need to get a residency permit should you be looking to relocate to Portugal, with popular options including the D7 Visa, Portugal Golden Visa, and Digital Nomad Visa.

Benefits include a stable real estate market, potential for property appreciation, and a high quality of life that remains affordable compared to other Western European countries and the USA.

Yes, Americans can buy property in Lisbon without restrictions. You will need to have a Portuguese tax number (NIF) and appoint a tax representative. It is also advisable to open a Portuguese bank account to minimize transaction fees.

A Notary verifies and authenticates documents, ensures legal compliance, registers the property transfer, and oversees the signing of the final deed. They play a crucial role in finalizing the purchase legally.

Yes, foreigners can obtain mortgages from Portuguese banks, with more than 15 banks offering financing options to foreign buyers.

There are current suspensions on getting an Alojamento Local (AL) license that is required to rent out properties in the short term.

If you already have a license, then yes, Airbnb can be profitable in Lisbon due to high tourist demand and occupancy rates, especially in central areas. Profitability depends on location, property quality, and seasonality.

Lisbon’s popularity has made it a strong market, but rising regulations may impact future profits as, at the moment, securing an Alojamento Local (AL) License, which is needed to rent out property short time, is not possible in Lisbon and other key cities. Alternatives close to the capital include Lisbon South Bay and Oeiras.

Portugal’s average rental income yield typically ranges from 4 to 7 percent depending on location. The average rental yield in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area is 6.8 percent, and in Lisbon City stands at 5.2 percent.

A good rental yield generally falls between 5 to 8 percent, providing a balance between income and investment risk. Higher yields often indicate a favorable return but might involve greater risks, while lower yields can be more stable but less profitable.

It can be expensive to find rental properties in Lisbon, which is why buying property may be the better option. However, if you work with experienced professionals, you should be able to get a good deal. The average price for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is €1,404 per square meter.

Lisbon offers a rare mix of culture, climate, and affordability. With mild weather, a blossoming tech scene, and lower living costs than many European capitals, it appeals to professionals, retirees, and investors seeking a high-quality lifestyle in a safe, charming setting, close to the coast.

Whether it’s better to buy or rent in Lisbon depends on your goals. Buying offers long-term value and investment potential, especially with rising property prices. Renting provides flexibility and lower upfront costs, which may suit short stays or those exploring different neighborhoods before purchasing a property.

Lisbon’s property market in 2025 shows steady growth, fueled by foreign investment, digital nomads, and infrastructure upgrades. Rising home prices, expanding rental demand, and new regulations shape the landscape, with peripheral neighborhoods gaining in popularity, while luxury real estate continues to attract high-net-worth international buyers.