Updated: March 17, 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. Located near the North Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is a stunning archipelago that is also an autonomous region of Portugal.
For property buyers, the services of a real estate agent in Madeira can make buying your dream property on this scenic island less challenging, particularly if you are buying from another country.
Madeira Island is known for its attractive real estate options and is one of the most profitable locations for foreign real estate investment. In 2024, Madeira’s housing market saw a major increase, with property prices rising 12.6 percent last year. Funchal, the capital, experienced an 11.1 percent increase, solidifying its position as a prime destination for real estate investors. This upward trend is expected to continue into 2025.
In this article, we will help you understand how to find the best real estate agent in Madeira and explore the various benefits of hiring one for your real estate search.
An Introduction to Madeira’s Real Estate Market
Over the years, expats across the world have been choosing Portugal as their preferred country to settle, not least because of the booming Portuguese real estate market, fabulous climate, and high quality of life. As per the Global Peace Index, Portugal has been declared one of the safest countries in the world, ranking in seventh position in the index.
If you are an expat looking for a peaceful and safe place to settle, then Madeira could be the perfect choice. The island is home to beautiful properties and apartments, fantastic food, and a large expat community. This European island is a great place for individuals looking for premier quality properties because it is one of the key regions offering luxury properties in Portugal.
Residential properties in Madeira
There are a variety of residential properties in Madeira to suit any taste and lifestyle, whether it’s modern apartments, charming villas, or countryside homes with stunning ocean views.
Popular areas for residential property include Funchal, known for its vibrant city life and luxury developments, Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village with a mix of traditional and contemporary properties, and Santa Cruz, which offers coastal living and tranquility.
Many properties feature gardens and pools, encouraging spending time outdoors and taking in Madeira’s natural beauty.
Luxury properties in Madeira
Luxury properties in Madeira boast breathtaking Atlantic ocean views, modern architecture, and premium amenities, making them highly sought after by foreign buyers seeking exclusivity and comfort.
In Funchal, you’ll find high-end penthouses and contemporary villas featuring expansive terraces, infinity pools, balconies with stunning 360-degree views, and state-of-the-art home technology. Coastal areas like Calheta provide private hillside estates with lush gardens and panoramic sea views, ideal for those seeking a peaceful slice of the island.
Quintas and country houses in Madeira
Traditional quintas, historic manor-style homes with elegant architecture and rustic charm, can also be found in Madeira. Many have been carefully restored, preserving their authentic character while incorporating contemporary amenities.
Country houses in areas like Santana, São Vicente, and Calheta, are also favorites among foreign buyers. These homes range from rustic cottages to luxurious estates, and may feature orchards, vineyards, or private swimming pools.
Madeira real estate costs
Madeira real estate has experienced exponential growth over the past few years. The average price of a property for Madeira was €3,230 per square meter at the end of January 2025. However, depending on the location and the type of property, the price may vary on the island.
To determine whether the price of your property is fair, make sure to have a Madeira realtor by your side. A property buyer’s agent, such as Goldcrest, offers real estate services that also include assisting with the negotiation stages of the purchase, ensuring that you can get the best possible deal for the property.
Cost of rent in Madeira
The average cost of rent in Madeira was €15.6 per square meter in January 2025. This reflects an increase of 9.1 percent compared to January 2024.
This increase in rental costs is in line with the rising average asking prices of property in the region, showing that, to minimize costs, purchasing property is a good idea in the long term.
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 in the process of buying the house of your dreams. Moreover, enlisting the service of an English speaking realtor in Portugal will help you fast-track the entire process with their knowledge of the Madeira Island real estate market.
Whether you have just started your search for the perfect property or have already decided to purchase one, a realtor or buyer’s agent will greatly help you through the entire process. 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 in the Madeira Island market. Good real estate agents have access to an extensive real estate database, whereby you’ll be able to tap into full market access.
This is a great advantage when buying property anywhere in Portugal, because the market is so fragmented and there is no one place to find all properties listed for sale.
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
As a property agent will be able to give you access to an extended database of featured listings you might not see online, 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. They anticipate issues and resolve them proactively, their service providing a hassle-free journey from the beginning of your property search to concluding the purchase.
The personalized services of real estate professionals can also extend to property management if you’re planning to list your apartment for rent and expect to struggle to find time to manage your property yourself or are based overseas.
Additionally, real estate professionals like buyer’s agents can use their experience and negotiation skills on your behalf, ensuring that you get the best possible terms and prices without the time-intensive back-and-forth and providing peace of mind.
When it comes to a realty professionals’ network, it 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.
Navigating legal and financial processes
A 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 a 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 though 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.
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 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
Searching for agents in Madeira
You can begin your search for local real estate-specific websites, of which there are many Madeira property search services. 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. You can 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. They will simplify legal complexities and communicate with you so that all aspects of your property transaction are understood and properly managed.
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? |
Real Estate Agent versus a Buyer's Agent
Interacting 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.
At Goldcrest, we remain fully dedicated to our clients until the property purchase is finalized and continue to offer support even after you have secured your dream property. So, if you plan to buy a property in Madeira, consider choosing Goldcrest.
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 |
Step-by-Step Guide for Your Property Journey
Now that you are well equipped to find a real estate professional in Madeira, it’s time to take your first steps towards finding your dream property.
As you now know the difference between a buyer’s agent and a real estate agent, we can confidently say that working with a buyer’s agent like Goldcrest can save you time and hassle in your property search and help you successfully navigate the Madeira real estate market.
While a buyer’s agent will be able to guide you through every step of your property investment journey, it’s always good to know what to expect. 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 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
Based in Portugal, Goldcrest is a local buyer’s agent who can help you address all your real estate queries and help you find your dream home in Portugal. As the top real estate team Madeira (and the rest of Portugal) can offer, you can rest assured that you’re working with the best. At Goldcrest, we are focused on finding the perfect property for you based on your needs.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Where will I find cheap Madeira properties for sale?
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.
Is Madeira real estate expensive?
The average price of a property for Madeira was €3,230 per square meter in January 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 prices of real estate will be comparatively lower.
How do I find the best Madeira realtor?
After completing a basic online search and reading client reviews, you can find some prospective real estate agents to work with. We also suggest speaking with friends and acquaintances who have worked with a real estate agent in Portugal for recommendations.
When you have a couple in mind, remember to have your questions ready and be sure to ask them about their experience with working with foreign buyers. Note that an agency that may be good for one buyer may not be the right one for you when finding your own dream home.
We also recommend working with a buyer’s agent such as Goldcrest who will work on behalf of you, the buyer, and will have your best interests at heart. These are some top tips to find the best real estate agency in Madeira.
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.
How to verify an agent's credentials?
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.
What are typical real estate agent 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.
Can foreigners buy property in Madeira?
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.
Is Madeira a good real estate investment?
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.
Do you need a license to sell real estate in Portugal?
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.
