Buying a house in Portugal can be a wonderful dream, but it's important to be aware of some crucial points to avoid pitfalls.
Subrogation imputes debts to the property rather than to the debtor. Therefore, it is essential to check for any debts associated with the property, such as unpaid taxes, electricity bills, or mortgages.
A good Portuguese lawyer can check the Certificate of Content, or deed, to ensure that there are no debts. They should also ensure that bills for utilities and local taxes are up to date.
In rural areas, it is common for properties to have multiple owners due to family inheritances. This can make it difficult to sell if it is not possible to locate all the owners.
Make sure that the property is correctly documented. In rural areas, some properties may have small, disorganized plots, or buildings without administrative registration.
Unlike other countries, in Portugal, real estate agents and some legal firms do not offer financial guarantees. Check if your agent is legalized (OUR HOME PORTUGAL license AMI 22847 )
Consider the seasonal conditions in the area. Some areas, such as the Algarve, can be vibrant in the summer but very quiet in the winter. If you want a year-round active destination, consider places like Lisbon, Cascais, or Estoril.
We hope that this advice will help make buying your home in Portugal a smooth and successful experience. If you need more details or have any other questions, we're here to help!