Updated: March 3, 2025
World-renowned for its Port wine and outstanding architecture, sitting proudly at the mouth of the iconic Douro River, Porto has recently become a huge tourism hub in Portugal. Expats looking for an alternative to buying a house in Lisbon, where the prices are more expensive, may consider Porto, the second largest city in Portugal.
If you’re interested in real estate investments in Porto, this article will walk you through the benefits of working with a real estate agent in Porto. We will explore how to find good estate agents in Porto who speak English and how their excellence in the real estate market, with administration, focused support, and personalized service, can make your future purchase a seamless success.
An Introduction to Porto's Real Estate Market
The Portuguese real estate market has been in good shape in recent years, and prices are on the rise in popular hotspot locations, such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, due to unwavering demand from foreign buyers.
In fact, Porto ranks among the top cities globally as one of the best performing real estate sectors, boasting 8.6 percent capital appreciation in the last year. The city’s property market is expected to continue to grow in 2025, with rising demand for residential and commercial properties among locals and foreigners, particularly in central areas.
Porto, the second largest city in Portugal and situated along the magnificent Douro River region, has recently attracted many expats and digital nomads, many of whom have settled in the city with their families. If you’re an aspiring expat who dreams of a life nestled within a historic European city, living in Porto may be just what you are looking for.
Property prices in Porto
Only around 230,000 residents live within Porto, but over 1.8 million live in the city’s metropolitan area. As you explore the city, prepare to discover warrens of charming narrow streets, stunning views, beach fronts, colorful houses, fragrant restaurants, and trendy gin bars.
Property prices in Porto City in 2024 stood at €4,883 per square meter, while prices for the Porto Metropolitan Area were €3,937 per square meter. Note that this is the average asking price, and the sales price can be lower.
Regardless of what type of property you seek, you should be able to find something to meet your needs – whether you are looking for a modern riverside apartment, old townhouse, or family home with sweeping views of the Atlantic. An excellent real estate agent who will help you through the process and facilitate your journey to find a suitable property in Porto. Especially because Porto is trending lately and many foreigners are considering settling in the city, finding and buying property in Porto, Portugal, can be pretty challenging.
Only around 230,000 residents live within Porto, but over 1.8 million live in the city’s metropolitan area. As you explore the city, prepare to discover warrens of charming narrow streets, stunning views, beach fronts, colorful houses, fragrant restaurants, and trendy gin bars.
Property prices in Porto City in 2024 stood at €4,883 per square meter, while prices for the Porto Metropolitan Area were €3,937 per square meter. Note that this is the average asking price, and the sales price can be lower.
Looking at luxury real estate in Porto, the city and its surrounding areas account for 10 to 13 percent of all luxury real estate transactions in Portugal (classified as properties priced above €400,000), making it one of the country’s largest luxury property markets.
The average sale price for luxury properties in Porto is approximately €690,000, contributing to a total market value of around €510 million. This represents 11 percent of Portugal’s luxury real estate market and 3.5 percent of the overall property market.
Regardless of what type of property you seek, you should be able to find something to meet your needs – whether you are looking for a modern riverside apartment, old townhouse, or family home with sweeping views of the Atlantic.
To achieve this, you’ll find it invaluable to work alongside an excellent real estate agent or buyer’s agent, who can help find a suitable property in Porto. Considering how Porto property is trending, and that many foreigners are looking to settle in the city, finding and buying property in Porto, Portugal, can be challenging without help.
What types of properties are available in Porto?
As mentioned above, in Porto, many property options are available for sale or rent. Whatever your taste is, you can find a suitable property in Porto based on your requirements. Property types in and around Porto come in all shapes and sizes: Luxury villas, farmhouses, charming cottages or townhouses, apartments, or condo units.
Working with a real estate agency in Porto, Portugal, will help you narrow down the available options and find the perfect property that meets your needs. In the following section, we’ll be able to give you more details about residential and commercial property in Porto. You can also check out our guide, Portugal Property Finder, for insights on uncovering your dream home.
Residential properties in Porto
Residential real estate is a property you buy to live in. In Porto, you will be amazed at the variety of available houses, and without a real estate agent, you may be a little bit confused about where to start. However, some helpful online real estate websites can help you go through the available properties in the market and learn more about the prices.
Remember that, given the fragmented market, there is no Zillow Portugal, where you can find all the properties in one place, but many different real estate websites have listings.
A good way to proceed is to set up email alerts on a few websites for properties that meet your requirements. You will then get information on new listings straight to your mail address. However, it’s smart to keep in mind that while these websites can give you some ballpoint figures for prices and property types, seeking expert help is the best way to ensure you have full market access.
If you are in the process of narrowing down neighborhoods, our guide on where to buy real estate in Porto Portugal may come in handy.
Commercial properties in Porto
Commercial properties are properties that you can buy for commercial purposes, such as small projects, restaurants, cafes, coworking places, or shops. Commercial properties, also called commercial real estate, investment properties, or income properties, are real estate intended to generate a profit. Given the influx of tourists and digital nomads in the city, this can be a lucrative investment.
If you’re still wondering, “should I buy property in Porto or Lisbon?”, we answer all your questions in this guide with a fair comparison between the two big Portuguese cities.
Why do you need a real estate agent in Porto?
Dealing with a professional realtor in Portugal or buyer’s agent will cost you a little bit more initially compared to handling everything yourself. Still, it will grant you greater efficiency and allow you to access a high-quality service. Plus, in the long run, you will likely save money by avoiding common pitfalls and benefiting from negotiations for a better price when working with a buyer’s agent.
If you decide to work with a Porto real estate agent for international buyers, you will easily have the option to visit the available properties and check them yourself instead of simply sifting through pictures of the property online.
You will also need to set up property visits on your own without professional help, which can be a pain, particularly if you do not speak Portuguese. Here are a few more reasons to work with a top real estate agent in Porto.
Expertise in the market
An experienced real estate agency in Porto will have access to an updated real estate market database. Plus, if you’re planning to buy a property and rent it out, the real estate service will save you a lot of hassle and help you find the perfect property for a Porto real estate investment.
An experienced agency or buyer’s agent team such as Goldcrest will make the property transactions a more straightforward process and ensure that all aspects of the purchase are in line with Portuguese real estate law.
Buyer’s agents present insight and services that can save you money in the long run. You may get a better deal on exclusive deal on luxury real estate options than another property company may not have access to.
Personalized property matching
Real estate services will be your trusted support system throughout the process until you finally settle on the best option for your lifestyle. A buyer’s agent will give you access to exclusive properties you may not find in the fragmented market online and will be able to set up in-person viewings on your behalf. They will also be able to assist with negotiations.
In case you have still not decided on where to buy properties in Porto, you can start creating your own checklist like:
- If you’d prefer a beach house in Porto or not?
- If you’re ok with the old houses, or do you want a new one?
- Would you like to live in the city center or prefer somewhere more private?
- Do you want to be situated close to international schools?
- Have you considered nearby areas like Vila Nova de Gaia or Vila do Conde?
Navigating legal and financial processes
Real estate services in Porto should also include assisting clients with financial transactions and the legal paperwork related to purchasing the property. Services should also include:
- Liaising with your Portugal real estate lawyers, the seller, etc. If you do not yet have a trusted real estate lawyer on your side, they will also be able to recommend one.
- Guiding you through property checks and paperwork alongside your lawyer, to ensure there is no debt attached to the property and that the property was built legally
- Guiding you through background checks on the seller alongside your real estate lawyer in Porto to ensure the owners have the right to sell
- Informing you of any property restrictions
How to Find the Best Real Estate Agent in Porto
Below, we will explore the steps you can take to get the ball rolling on your search for the best real estate agent for expats in Porto.
Identify your real estate needs
The best place to begin is to identify what you would like to achieve with your purchase and answer the questions about what you are searching for before you buy property in Portugal. Consider your dream home in Portugal and the details, such as the size of the house or apartment and the location of your lifestyle, and research Porto’s neighborhoods and property marketing trends in Portugal.
Begin searching for agents
In 2025, most businesses will be present online via social media or the businesses’ website. You can start your research online to find real estate agents that fit your criteria and check that the business specializes in working with expats.
You can also check out expat groups in Porto and ask for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have recently bought or sold property in Porto. Ensure you create a shortlist and try to find a Porto real estate agent with expertise in market trends and in-depth local knowledge.
Evaluate potential agents
When you’ve found the right realtor, try to contact them directly and talk to them about the kind of real estate services they provide, the kind of services you need, and their expertise in Portugal’s property market.
Consider using this checklist to systematically evaluate critical criteria to help you make an informed decision when hiring a real estate agent or company focusing on residential purchases in Porto, Portugal. For more information, you can take a look at our article: Real Estate Agent Portugal.
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?
The Difference between Real Estate Agents and Buyer’s Agents
Having real estate agents is very helpful, but you should keep in mind that they work on behalf of the seller and will get a higher commission for a bigger sale. A buyer’s agent works solely on behalf of the client (the buyer), which is a significant advantage of choosing a buyer’s agent, such as Goldcrest. Buyer agents do not sell real estate.
It’s also nice to have a real estate agent who always provides you with the latest updates in the real estate market and the recently added properties to boost your search. Buying a house in Portugal with a buyer’s agent will provide you with access to properties that real estate agents may not have, plus new listings and exclusive properties you will not find elsewhere. Look at our comprehensive guideline 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: Who We Are and How We Can Help You
Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent with offices in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Our team works solely on your behalf, giving you many exclusive advantages to help you narrow down your search.
Our team works diligently to ensure the correct steps have been taken with high-quality service, safeguarding you from poor property investments. For the past decade, we’ve been building our inside knowledge of the local property real estate market and have established extensive connections across the country, enabling access to an exclusive list of properties and investment routes. Get in touch with us and let us help you find exactly what you are looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions about Finding a Real Estate Agent in Porto
What does a real estate agent do?
Top rated Porto real estate agents in Porto provide valuable insights and native knowledge, and also help clients secure the best deals, bridge language barriers and negotiate prices.
What are the services offered by Porto estate agents?
Estate agents in Porto offer a varied range of services to assist clients in navigating the real estate market. Key services include:
- Assisting clients in buying and selling residential and commercial properties
- Managing rental properties
- Providing accurate market valuations
- Guiding clients through legal paperwork and financial transactions
- Offering insights into market trends, investment opportunities, and strategic advice for property investments
Why should I consider hiring a real estate agency in Porto?
Buying property in Portugal can be tricky. A bilingual real estate agent in Porto, Portugal, can provide you with advice and property listings and help you navigate the Portuguese market so that you can find the perfect selection of homes for sale that fit your requirements.
How to find the best real estate agent in Porto?
You will need the assistance of a real estate agent or buyer’s agent to go deeper in the buying process. To find a good one, ask about their experience in working with expats and helping individuals with similar requirements to your own. Also be sure to check their credentials and reviews from past clients.
Should I work with a real estate or buyer's agent?
In Portugal, real estate agents work on behalf of the seller and get a higher commission for a higher sale, while a buyer’s agent works on behalf of the buyer. While real estate agents should have your best interests at heart, working with a buyer’s agent can be a good idea to ensure your needs are fully met. They will help you locate the best properties at the best price.
What is the most credible real estate agent license?
The most credible real estate license is the AMI license issued by IMPIC, allowing real estate agents with a license to conduct business in Portugal real estate.
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—confirmation of registration and displayed license numbers ensure credibility.
What is estate agent commission in Portugal?
A real estate agent’s commission rates vary and depend on the property’s purchase price. However, affordable real estate agents in Porto usually receive between 3 and 6 percent of the property price in commission.
How much does a real estate agent earn in Portugal?
In Portugal, real estate agents typically earn between €18,000 and €40,000 per year, depending on experience and the services they provide.
Can foreigners buy property in Porto?
Yes, foreigners can buy property in Porto, Portugal. Portugal has no restrictions on foreign nationals purchasing real estate, making it a popular destination for international buyers. Porto’s vibrant culture, historic charm, and growing real estate market make it an attractive option among foreign investors, expats, and retirees.
How to find a realtor in Portugal?
To find a realtor in Portugal, consider factors such as experience, local knowledge, client reviews, and specialization in your desired property type. Research online, making sure to read reviews and recommendations from locals or expats. You can also ask your personal network of friends and family for referrals. Once you’ve narrowed your search, schedule consultations to assess compatibility and their expertise.
Remember, in Portugal, real estate agents work on behalf of the seller and get a higher commission for a higher sale, while a buyer’s agent works on behalf of the buyer. While real estate agents should have your best interests at heart, working with a buyer’s agent can be a good idea to ensure your needs are fully met.
