Updated: May 7, 2025

 

The captivating island of Madeira has become a highly sought-after location for investors, expats, and tourists, owing to its enviable weather, picture-perfect landscapes, thriving tourism, and calm pace of life.

For property buyers, working with a real estate agent in Madeira, or a buyer’s agent, can make buying your dream property on this scenic island less challenging, particularly if you are buying from another country.

In this article, we will help you discover how to find the best real estate agent in Madeira and explore the benefits of hiring one for your real estate search. We’ll also delve into how Goldcrest can help you secure your dream property, whether you are seeking to relocate or invest, and introduce the key services that we provide.

Why do you need a real estate agent in Madeira?

Hiring a real estate agent for expats in Madeira will make a world of difference when buying property. A buyer’s agent or English speaking realtor in Portugal will help you fast-track the entire process due to their knowledge of the Madeira Island real estate market. Here are the benefits they provide you:

Market expertise

If you work with a top real estate agent in Madeira, you will benefit from their extensive knowledge of the buying and selling process on Madeira Island.

In addition, a Madeira realtor can be beneficial for those planning to buy a property on the island to rent it out. Property agents will be well-connected in the real estate sector and can work on behalf of clients to deal with all the formalities of property management, from sourcing tenants to maintaining the property and collecting rent.

Personalized property matching

real estate agent in Madeira

A property agent will give you access to an extended database of featured listings you might not see online, so you’ll have the best chance of finding your perfect property match.

An experienced team of real estate agents will streamline the purchasing process and manage viewings, negotiations, and paperwork to ensure a smooth transaction.

When it comes to a realty professional’s network, this includes not just potential buyers and sellers, but also trusted professionals like home inspectors, appraisers, contractors, and attorneys. Their recommendations can save you time and money, and make the process of getting everything set up much easier.

Navigating legal and financial processes

document signature - real estate agent in MadeiraA real estate agent also helps you complete all legal paperwork regarding your real estate investment. The agency can act as your single point of contact and guide you in finalizing the investment deal of your dreams and other legalities associated with buying your new home. 

In this regard, a team of real estate professionals will ensure all legal measures are taken by liaising with your Portuguese real estate lawyer and assisting with the following:

  • Guiding you through legal property paperwork, with the help of a lawyer
  • Assisting with liaising with the seller
  • Assisting with property checks to ensure there is no debt attached
  • Helping to check that the property was built legally
  • Assisting with background checks on the owner/s of the property, ensuring they have the right to sell it
  • Guiding you through the process of drawing up and signing purchase contracts

How to Find a Real Estate Agent in Madeira

Here are a few simple steps to kickstart your quest for a skilled real estate agent in Madeira Island to help you find your new dream home or investment property.

Make sure that the real estate agent you choose is licensed. The most credible real estate license is the AMI license, which is issued by IMPIC. This is required to conduct real estate mediation activity. You can find out more on the Portuguese government website

Identifying your real estate needs

Create a checklist of your unique needs, and once you’re ready, conduct online research to find a real estate agent company offering services that match your criteria. Consider things like:

  • Budget constraints
  • Where do you want the property to be located in the Madeira Archipelago?
  • Whether you are looking for land to develop or a house
  • Proximity to amenities like healthcare and shopping centers, international schools in Madeira, and the capital city, Funchal

Searching for agents in Madeira

real estate agent in MadeiraYou can begin your search for local real estate-specific websites. Look for local real estate agencies or firms with good reviews and a strong presence in Madeira.

You could also ask for recommendations from your personal network of friends and family who have bought property in Madeira and have experience working with realtors in Madeira. You can also check reviews and advice on online expat groups and forums. Take a look at our article for more information: Real Estate Agent Portugal.

Evaluating potential agents

The real estate agency you choose to work with will serve as your guide. For a successful outcome, you need to ensure that they have in-depth knowledge of the real estate market and have worked with clients in a similar position to your own. Be sure to ask them about their experience of working specifically with foreign buyers.

You could use this checklist to systematically evaluate critical criteria to help you make an informed decision when hiring a Madeira realtor or company, and even create your own.

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?

Step-by-Step Guide for Your Property Journey

To set you up for success, use these basic steps of the buying and selling process as a roadmap to plan your next steps.

Step 1: Request an appointment with your buyer’s agent or real estate agent to discuss your specific needs.

Step 2: Your agent will conduct a property search and arrange viewings.

Step 3: Once you have reviewed the properties presented by the agent and shortlisted the ones that meet your requirements, you and your agent can formulate an offer for the property.

Step 4: Shortly after the offer is accepted, your agent will assist with completing legal paperwork and other necessary formalities.

Step 5: It’s time to close the deal. Your buyer’s agent can help you with finalizing the legalities of the purchase, help you sign contracts and legal documents, and ensure you understand and agree with other aspects of the purchase.

Real Estate Agent versus Buyers Agent Madeira

Working with a real estate agent on the Madeira Archipelago can be incredibly beneficial during the property acquisition process, yet it’s crucial to keep the following points in mind.

Madeira real estate agents – and all Portugal real estate agents – primarily represent the seller’s interests, meaning they earn a larger commission when the sale price is higher. Engaging a buyer’s agent, however, presents a different scenario.

A buyer’s agent works exclusively on behalf of the buyer, diligently seeking options that align with your needs. In addition, a buyer’s agent also has access to featured listings and databases that cannot be found elsewhere in the market.

Take a look at the comprehensive guideline below showcasing each option’s advantages and potential drawbacks.

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

 

Goldcrest: Our Services

At Goldcrest, we are fully dedicated to our clients from sourcing properties through to the final acquisition, and we continue to offer support even after you have secured your dream property. Whether you are buying property to relocate or buying to invest, we can help you find your ideal home or investment property at the most favorable terms.

Since we are a buyer’s agent, we will work exclusively for you, the buyer, and provide you with the best deals – securing your dream property at the best price. We are your one-stop shop for real estate services in Portugal and guide you through the process, from sourcing to acquisition, and beyond.

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

Real estate agents in Madeira, Portugal, provide insights and knowledge about property purchases on the island. They can help clients secure the best deals, bridge language barriers, and negotiate prices on your behalf.

You can find specialized Madeira real estate professionals like buyer’s agents who work solely on your behalf. There are also a number of luxury property real estate agents in Madeira Island.

To find a top real estate agent in Madeira, you can start by searching for real estate agents online. Getting recommendations from friends and family, or asking for referrals in online expat groups, is also a good way to go.

After doing your research, reading online reviews, and speaking with potential real estate agents, you can carefully select the one that you feel most comfortable with in discovering your dream home.

You can also work with a buyer’s agent like Goldcrest, who works solely on the buyer’s behalf and will ensure you find the perfect property at the best price.

In areas like Porto Santo, Ribeira Brava, Porto Moniz, and Santa Cruz, you will find affordable properties for sale in Madeira Island. Bear in mind that the property type and size will also be a determining factor in the price.  

The average price of a property for Madeira was €3,355 per square meter in April 2025. If you are planning to invest in the capital city of Funchal, the market value of real estate and investment properties will be on the higher side. But on the other hand, if you move away from the capital, then the prices of real estate will be comparatively lower.

The most credible real estate license in the real estate sector is the AMI license issued by IMPIC. This license enables real estate agents to lawfully conduct business in Portugal. 

Verifying a real estate agent’s credentials involves visiting the IMPIC website and checking out an AMI number link. Input the number and review the results. When you see the agency’s confirmation of registration and displayed license numbers, you will be sure that their services are verified.

Real estate agent commission rates will vary depending on the purchase price, but the agent will generally receive between three and six percent of the property price in commission.

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Madeira without any restrictions. Portugal, including the autonomous region of Madeira, is open to international buyers. The process is straightforward, and non-residents can purchase property for personal use, as a holiday home, or as investment properties.

Yes, purchasing real estate in Madeira is an excellent investment. Madeira is a growing hotspot for real estate investment due to its strong tourism demand, affordable prices compared to mainland Portugal, stable property market, and growing expat community.

Yes. To legally sell real estate in Portugal, agents must be licensed by IMPIC (Instituto dos Mercados Públicos, do Imobiliário e da Construção). They need a valid AMI number, which verifies that they are registered and authorized to operate. Buyers should always check an agent’s AMI number before working with them.