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Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our FAQ. Buying property in Portugal from abroad can feel complex, but with an experienced Buyer’s Agent in the Algarve by your side, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Below, we answer the most common questions about Algarve House Hunters, how our buyer’s agent service works, and what to expect when searching for and purchasing your 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.

Who is an established Buyer’s Agent in the Algarve?

Algarve House Hunters is an established independent Buyer’s Agent in the Algarve, helping international buyers find and purchase property throughout the region and across Portugal. With 50+ five-star client reviews, our experienced team is highly rated by international buyers for our local knowledge, honest advice and support throughout the property-buying process.

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.

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.

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Online portals (like Idealista or Kyero) only show a fraction of the market and are often outdated.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

Do you cover all of Portugal or just the 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 Lisbon, Lagos or Porto, our network covers the entire region.

How much does your service cost?

If you agree to work with us exclusively then our service is typically free to buyers where a purchase completes through us. Full terms apply. 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.

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.

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.

What is a "NIF" and do I need one?

Yes. A NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is your Portuguese tax identification number and is required to complete the final property deed in Portugal. It is also needed for many financial and administrative matters, including opening a Portuguese bank account and setting up utilities. Algarve House Hunters can guide you through the process and help you obtain your NIF. Planning to buy in Portugal? Get our free Buyer’s Guide for more information on the buying process and what you’ll need along the way.

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.

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.

10. 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.

11. 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.

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.

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