Updated: September 9, 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 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.
We’ll guide you through:
Why do you need a real estate agent in Madeira?
Hiring a real estate agent for expats will make a world of difference when buying property in Madeira. 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.
Particularly if you are unfamiliar with Portuguese and the Madeira real estate market, they will be able to shortlist properties that meet your requirements so you can discover your dream home on the island.
Benefits of Working with a Licensed Madeira Property Agent
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
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.
Real estate professionals will also have strong local networks, helping you connect with surveyors, interior designers, gardeners, financial advisors, and attorneys, and give you tips on which utility providers to opt for. Their recommendations can save you time and money, and make the process of getting everything set up much easier.
Navigating legal and financial processes
A real estate agent works alongside your lawyer and helps you complete all legal paperwork regarding your real estate investment. The real estate 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 and according to Portuguese government guidelines
- 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 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, or are seeking property with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean
Searching for agents in Madeira
You 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.
Consider experience and reputation. Look for agents with a proven track record and positive client testimonials. 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 an 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? |
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 |
Your Step by Step Guide to Purchasing Property in Madeira
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.
Goldcrest: How We Can Help You
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.
We strive to find the right property for you. Our services include:
- Buying property to relocate
- Buying property to invest
- Managing your property purchase (if you already have a property selected but need help navigating the purchasing process)
- Rental property search
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. We can also assist with services such as property management for long-term rentals.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Find a Real Estate Agent in Madeira
What are the services offered by Madeira estate agents?
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.
How to find the best real estate agent in Madeira?
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.
Where can I find cheap Madeira property for sale?
In areas like Porto Santo, Ribeira Brava, Porto Moniz, and Santa Cruz, you will find affordable properties for sale on Madeira Island. Santa Cruz also offers affordable property when compared with Funchal. Bear in mind that the property type and size will also be determining factors in the price.
What is the most credible real estate agent license?
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.
What are the typical real estate commission rates in Madeira?
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. Rates will depend on the real estate company you work with.