Buying Property in Braga, Portugal: Your Essential Guide

Buying property in Braga, Portugal, is a popular choice for both foreigners and locals due to its affordability relative to major cities like Lisbon and Porto. The real estate market in Braga has seen steady growth, making it a viable investment.

The city has a variety of properties available, including modern apartments in the city center and family houses or villas in the surrounding areas. The market has been growing, with property values in Braga projected to grow in the coming years.

Demand is increasing, driven by Braga’s rising reputation as a tech hub and a desirable place to live. As of early 2025, the median price for apartments is around €2,258 per square meter in the city center and €1,710 per square meter outside the city center.

As the first buyer’s agent in Portugal, we’ve created this detailed guideline for foreigners purchasing property in Braga in 2025. We will delve into the current market trends, provide an easy step-by-step guide to the buying process, and offer tips and advice for financing your property.

Stick around to read about:

• Braga Real Estate Market: What to Expect
• Can foreigners buy property in Braga, Portugal?
• Why buy property in Braga? Key benefits
• Top Areas for Buying Property in Braga, Portugal
• Steps For Buying Property In Braga, Portugal

Braga Real Estate Market: What to Expect

Braga has fast become a trending location, due to its influx of tech companies, high quality of life, and with InvestBraga, the Agency for the Economic Dynamization of Braga, promoting economic development and investment in the area. This has led to more foreign buyers coming to see the balanced lifestyle and investment appeal of Braga.

Braga 2025 market trends and dynamics

Braga’s real estate market has shown consistent growth and stability over the past years, registering a 5.6 percent growth in property prices since June last year. Braga presents a more accessible property market than Lisbon or Porto, with a lower average price, meaning you can get more for your money when buying real estate.

On top of that, the robust and expanding economy has created a strong supply and demand, positioning Braga as an attractive market for property buyers and investors.

Property prices in Braga

In the table below, we provide the average property price you can expect to find in Braga.

These prices show Braga to be considerably more affordable than Lisbon and Porto. Properties in the city center will be more expensive, with prices generally dropping as you move outside the central hub.

Rental yields and investment potential

Braga’s rental market has really opened up, driven by increased demand from young professionals, students, and a steadily increasing number of tourists, making it an ideal place for investing. The average rental yield is currently 4.74 percent.

For investors seeking to buy to rent, you’ll find opportunities to rent your property in the short term or long term and secure a good return on your investment.

Students look for Braga apartments for sale mainly in São João do Souto and Sé because of the convenient location and proximity to local universities. But those who seek affordable apartments tend to move to areas like Gualtar, São Victor, or Lamaçães.

The Portuguese Government is also promoting tourism in more interior areas of Portugal, including Braga. This means that there is potential for investors to rent property in the long or short term and secure a nice return on their investment, particularly appealing due to the generally lower price entry point.

Why buy property in Braga? Key benefits

From its high quality of life to safety aspects and various amenities, there are many reasons to consider buying property in Braga. The appeal of Braga is increasingly attracting a broad range of foreign buyers, from families, young professionals, and retirees, who are seeking appealing investment prospects or a better quality of life.

Braga’s thriving economy and job opportunities

Following the relocation of Web Summit (the biggest tech festival in the world) to Lisbon in 2016, Portugal has become a hotspot for tech and IT companies, with Braga a particularly attractive destination amongst startups and international companies. For example, Bosch, Microsoft, Apple, Google, and Devoteam have each established a presence in Braga.

The University of Minho, one of the best universities in Portugal, acts as a catalyst for innovation, with many international companies recruiting local talent. Alongside this, remote workers, tech founders, and families have come to call the city home, fueling a strong local economy and sustained demand for housing. As we’ve mentioned, InvestBraga, the city’s economic dynamization agency, actively promotes the region as a global technology hub, helping investors navigate the local market.

Exceptional quality of life and safety

Braga is one of the top ten European cities with the highest quality of life, according to a 2024 study by the European Commission. The study revealed that 94 percent of people living in the municipality consider the city an excellent place to live.

Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world, ranking seventh in the 2025 Global Peace Index. Braga, in particular, is noted for its low crime rates and welcoming atmosphere.

The city has good public services and excellent access to nature, with beautiful beaches to the west. The Peneda-Gerê National Park is close by and is one of Europe’s most beautiful natural parks. While in the city of Braga itself, you’ll enjoy several quiet green parks.

Cultural richness and modern amenities

Braga is one of the historic highlights of Portugal, home to around 80 churches, grand palaces, and a dynamic cultural scene. The beautiful Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary is close to Braga, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its impressive Baroque stairway and hilltop church. From here, you’ll have terrific panoramic views. Alongside the city’s historical allure, Braga provides all the convenience of a modern urban center, with shopping centers, well-equipped healthcare facilities, and some of the best restaurants in the country. For many Portuguese, the cuisine of Northern Portugal is the best in the country.

Affordability compared to other major cities

Braga stands out as one of the more affordable cities in Portugal. The cost of living and the average property price are more affordable in Braga than in Lisbon and Porto. Compared to Lisbon, Braga is 15.6 percent cheaper and 6.7 percent lower than in Porto, not including rent.

Types of properties in Braga

Braga city and the surrounding area are home to a range of property types, including:

• Modern Braga apartments
• Houses
• Quintas and country homes
• Farms
• Commercial properties (Lojas/Escritórios)
• Plots of land

In the surrounding countryside, you will find large properties for sale in Braga, Portugal, that could be perfect for families. These homes, often called “quintas,” are very large estates with hectares of land, vineyards, and even multiple buildings.

Steps For Buying Property In Braga, Portugal

Buying property in Braga is straightforward, although there are some things you will need to consider. Below, we provide an easy step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Financing your property in Portugal

Start your property search by figuring out your finances first. Compare your mortgage options in Portugal, as this will help you know how much you can borrow and give you an idea of the property prices you can afford.

Step 2: Secure your Portuguese tax number (NIF) and bank account

To buy property in Braga, you will need to have a NIF number. This is your Portuguese tax number that is necessary to make any financial transactions in the country, such as buying property in Portugal as a foreigner or opening a Portuguese bank account.

Step 3: Finding your ideal property

To find your ideal property in Portugal, we suggest you work with real estate professionals or buyer’s agents. They have access to off-market properties and can do a market analysis to find the best Portuguese property prices for your goals.

Step 4: Making an offer and negotiating with the seller

It’s very common in Portugal to negotiate with the seller on the price of the property. The asking price is often higher than the sales price, so with some smart negotiation, you should be able to get a great deal. A real estate professional will be able to negotiate on your behalf to help you secure the best price.

Step 5: Reservation Agreement and the Promissory Contract (CPCV)

The Reservation Agreement shows your intention to purchase the property. Once the parties draw it up, the seller can take the property off the market, usually for a fee. After this, both parties sign the Promissory Contract, known as the CPCV. We recommend signing this preliminary agreement in front of a Notary. The CPCV outlines the terms of the sale, and you pay the seller a deposit of 10 to 20 percent.

Step 6: Sign the Final Deed (Escritura)

You complete the buying process by signing the Final Deed, known as the Escritura in Portugal. You sign this document in front of a Notary and make the remaining payment to the seller, including any outstanding property taxes due at the time of purchase. At this stage, you also register the property at the Land Registry Office (Conservatória do Registo Predial).

Step 7: Post-purchase management

After buying your property in Braga, you’ll need to take care of a few essentials, like setting up utilities (electricity, water, and internet) and arranging reliable home insurance. If you plan to rent out your property, you should also decide whether to hire a property management service, like a buyer’s agent, to handle things for you.

How to finance your property purchase in Braga?

If you are seeking to take out a mortgage to finance you’re property in Braga, you’ll find several options. There are more than 15 banks that provide mortgages for non-resident buyers, with banks regulated by the Bank of Portugal.

Mortgage options for foreigners

The typical Loan-to-Value ratio for non-residents is around 60 to 80 percent, while for residents, it is usually around 80 to 90 percent.

When it comes to interest rates, buyers can choose between fixed-rate, variable-rate, and mixed-rate mortgage options.

• Fixed-rate mortgage: Mortgage rates don’t fluctuate over time, and you can enjoy stable monthly mortgage payments for a set term, usually between 3 and 30 years.
• Variable-rate mortgages: You can capitalize on market trends to get potentially lower mortgage rates. The estimated monthly mortgage repayment varies based on the Euribor index and may be recalculated every 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on the mortgage terms. The rate will vary depending on the “mortgage spread,” which is set by the bank.
• Mixed-rate mortgages: Allow you to get the best of both fixed and variable rate mortgages. You lock in rates for a certain period, then transition to a variable-rate mortgage to better manage interest rate risks while also being able to enjoy a level of payment stability.

Required documents for mortgage application

You will need the following documents for your mortgage application:

• ID (Passport) or Citizen card
• Your past three payroll documents
• Floor plan of the property you intend to purchase
• Documents of your other incoming sources (if applicable)
• A credit report
• Your latest income tax return and the notice of settlement
• Bank statements (both for Portugal and other countries)
• Employment Letter of Confirmation

Property Taxes in Braga, Portugal

When buying real estate in Braga, Portugal, you will need to account for property taxes, which can be due either at the time of purchase or annually.

Property taxes to consider at the time of purchase

At the time of purchase, you will need to pay:

• Property Purchase Tax (IMT): Ranging from 0-10 percent and levied on the property purchase price. The 0-8 percent range depends on the property price, location, type, and intended use of the property, while there is a flat 10 percent rate if the buyer has connections to blacklisted jurisdictions that have more favorable tax regimes.
• Stamp duty: 0.8 percent of the value of the property or the value of the business

Property taxes to consider annually

Municipal Property Tax (IMI): IMI ranges from 0.3 to 0.5 percent of the total real estate value for urban properties. For rural properties, it’s 0.8 percent.

Addition to IMI (AIMA): Owners of Portuguese real estate with a value of more than €600,001 are subject to the additional property tax, AIMI.

• €600,001 to €1 million: 0.7 percent
• €1 million to €2 million: 1 percent
• €2 million or more: 1.5 percent

Property taxes in Portugal are subject to change, so it is best to stay up to date with recent updates. Changes can drastically affect the cost of buying, owning, and selling property.

Seek Expert Advice

When looking to buy Braga, Portugal, real estate, enlist the assistance of a real estate agent and a property lawyer.

Real estate agent

We highly recommend seeking the assistance of a real estate agent in Braga or a buyer’s agent to assist you with the purchase. Bear in mind that real estate agents in Portugal work on behalf of the seller and may get a higher commission for a higher sale. As such, working with a buyer’s agent can be a better option, as they will protect your interests and work solely for you.

You can find out more in our article: Realtor Portugal.

Real estate lawyer

To avoid pitfalls, such as legal issues with either the property or the seller, work with experienced real estate lawyers. They will be able to ensure you have all the correct documents, conduct thorough due diligence, and ensure all legal requirements are met.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help You 

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon. We provide expert, impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Portugal. From scouting out the perfect property through to property acquisition, we have you covered throughout the process.

If you are looking to purchase property in Portugal, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your real estate doubts, helping you with the property search and offering insightful expertise and strategic advice.

Why choose Goldcrest?

• Local knowledge: With offices located across Portugal, our presence nationwide allows us to assist you personally across the country.
• Independent service: As an independent buying agent, we do not represent any development or project. Our service is entirely tailored toward each individual client, providing you with everything you need to secure the perfect property at the best possible price. As an impartial advisor on the market, we work solely on behalf of our client and provide a service tailored to your needs and requirements.
• Streamlined process: Our real estate agents speak English and Portuguese, and our service is completely focused on providing you with a hassle-free buying experience, saving you time.
• Experienced team: Our expert real estate team has a vast local knowledge of the Portuguese property market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at your disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best investment choices and negotiated prices.
• Network of partners: We have a close network of partners, including lawyers, property management services, builders, architects, designers, and landscape gardeners, again saving you time and hassle by providing you with trusted experts in their field of work.