top of page

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our FAQ. Buying property in a foreign country can be complex, but it doesn't have to be stressful. Below, we’ve answered the most common questions about how Algarve House Hunter works and what you can expect when purchasing your dream home in Portugal.

1. What is the difference between a Buyer's Agent and a Real Estate Agent?

This is the most important distinction in the market.

  • Real Estate Agents represent the seller. Their legal and ethical obligation is to get the highest price and best terms for the vendor.

  • Buyer’s Agents (Us) represent you. We work exclusively for the buyer. Our goal is to protect your interests, negotiate the lowest possible price, and ensure the property is legal and sound.

2. Why should I use Algarve House Hunter instead of searching online myself?

Online portals (like Idealista or Kyero) only show a fraction of the market and are often outdated.

  • Access: We have access to "off-market" listings and private networks that never appear online.

  • Time-Saving: We filter through hundreds of listings so you don't have to. We visit properties on your behalf to ensure they match the photos.

  • Safety: We perform preliminary due diligence to avoid "illegal" builds or properties with paperwork issues—common pitfalls in the Algarve.

3. Do you cover the entire Algarve?

Yes. Whether you are looking for a farmhouse in the Monchique hills, a luxury villa in the Golden Triangle (Quinta do Lago/Vale do Lobo), or an apartment in Lagos or Tavira, our network covers the entire region.

4. How much does your service cost?

For most residential purchases, our service is free to the buyer. In Portugal, the sales commission is typically paid by the seller. We split this commission with the listing agent. This means you get full professional representation at no extra cost to you.

In the rare event a specific property owner refuses to pay a commission (e.g., a private sale), we will discuss a fixed fee with you transparently before proceeding.

5. What other costs should I expect when buying in Portugal?

You should budget approximately 7% to 10% above the purchase price for taxes and fees. These include:

  • IMT (Property Transfer Tax): Varies based on price (0% to 7.5%).

  • Stamp Duty (Imposto de Selo): 0.8% of the purchase price.

  • Notary & Registration Fees: Approx. €1,000 – €1,500.

  • Legal Fees: Typically 1% – 1.5% (+ VAT) of the property value.

6. Can I buy a property remotely?

Absolutely. Many of our clients are based in the US, UK, or Northern Europe. We can:

  1. Conduct live video viewings via WhatsApp or Zoom.

  2. Provide detailed walk-through videos showing the "good, the bad, and the ugly" (noise, damp, neighborhood issues).

  3. Coordinate with your lawyer to handle the Power of Attorney (PoA) so you can sign contracts without flying in.

7. How long does the process take?

Once an offer is accepted, the timeline is typically:

  • Promissory Contract (CPCV): Signed within 14–30 days. (10%–20% deposit paid).

  • Final Deed (Escritura): Signed 30–90 days after the CPCV.

8. What is a "NIF" and do I need one?

Yes. The NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is your Portuguese tax identification number. You cannot buy a property, open a bank account, or even set up utilities without one. We can assist you in obtaining this quickly.

9. Do you help with the Golden Visa or D7 Visa?

While we are real estate experts, not immigration lawyers, we specialize in finding properties that qualify for investment visas. We work alongside trusted legal partners who handle the visa application process to ensure your property purchase aligns with residency requirements.

8. Is it safe to buy "rustic" land or older cottages?

It can be risky if you don't check the paperwork. Many older properties in the Algarve have swimming pools or annexes that were built without planning permission. We check this first. We ensure the property has a valid Licença de Utilização (Habitation License) and that the physical building matches the legal description at the Land Registry.

9. Do you help after the keys are handed over?

Yes, our relationship doesn't end at the deed. Our "Aftercare" service includes:

  • Switching over utility contracts (water, electricity, gas).

  • Recommending trusted builders, architects, and interior designers.

  • Do the property management and holiday rentals, if you plan to generate income.

Ready to Start Your Search?

Stop scrolling through endless listings. Let us do the hard work for you.

bottom of page