Property lawyers · Portugal
The lawyers for your property purchase in Portugal.
From legal checks to the final deed — complete guidance for local and international buyers, always with a partner as your direct point of contact.
Direct contact with Sofia & João
The process
Three steps, no surprises
We lead every stage of the purchase, protecting your investment from the first call to the keys in your hand.
- 01
Due diligence
We verify ownership and registration, licences, charges, encumbrances and debts, and the property’s planning compliance — before any commitment.
- 02
Promissory contract
We negotiate and draft the promissory contract, protecting your interests before any deposit is paid.
- 03
Deed & registration
We attend the deed, the transfer of ownership, payment of the balance and the final registration in your name.
Due diligence
What we check for you
Rigorous legal analysis reveals what isn’t visible — and prevents costly problems later.
Ownership & registry
Confirming the legitimate owner and the land-registry record.
Licences & planning
Use licence, planning compliance and the legality of any works.
Charges & mortgages
Mortgages, seizures and any other liens over the property.
Debts & condominium
Condominium arrears, IMI and other outstanding liabilities.
Areas & boundaries
Match between the registry, the tax record and the property itself.
Existing tenancies
Live lease agreements and any third-party rights.
Costs & taxes
The true cost, worked out upfront
Beyond the price, a purchase carries real charges. We give you the full picture before you proceed — no small print.
IMT
Municipal property transfer tax, at a progressive rate on the value.
Stamp duty
0.8% on the purchase value.
Notary & registry
Costs of the deed and the final land registration.
IMI
Annual municipal property tax, to factor into your budget.
International buyers
Buying from abroad?
We handle everything an international buyer needs — and you can buy without leaving home.
Portuguese tax number
Obtaining your NIF, which is essential to buy.
Bank account
Support opening a Portuguese bank account.
Buy by power of attorney
We represent you remotely — you can buy without travelling to Portugal.
Cross-border tax
Coordinating the tax angle between Portugal and your home country.
Sofia Távora Seruya
Partner — Real Estate, Investment and International Mobility
João Botelho de Melo
Partner — Corporate, Employment and International Mobility
Why Seruya & Melo
One point of contact, start to finish
No call centre, no different trainee every week. You speak directly with a partner who knows your matter and answers clearly — in Portuguese, English, French or Spanish.
- End-to-end support, from due diligence to the deed
- Direct contact with a partner, no intermediaries
- Coordinated with tax, corporate and succession work
- Service in four languages, in person or remotely
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy while abroad?
Yes. We support international buyers remotely and can act under a power of attorney, so you don’t need to travel.
What does due diligence include?
Verification of ownership and registration, licences, charges, encumbrances, debts, areas and the property’s planning compliance.
What costs are there beyond the price?
IMT, stamp duty (0.8%), notary and registration costs, and the annual IMI. We calculate it all upfront.
What languages can I be assisted in?
Portuguese, English, French and Spanish.
Ready to buy with confidence?
Describe the property or the transaction you have in mind. We’ll reply with the next steps — clearly and directly.
Prefer email? geral@seruya-advogados.com