Buying Process — Portugal
Promessa de Compra e Venda, CPCV, and the notarised escritura — Portugal's property buying process explained.
Updated February 2026
Portugal
Stage 1 — CPCV (Contrato-Promessa de Compra e Venda)
A bilateral preliminary contract between buyer and seller. The buyer pays a deposit of typically 10–20% of the purchase price (sinal). Under Portuguese law:
- If the buyer withdraws: forfeits the deposit
- If the seller withdraws: must pay double the deposit to the buyer
- The CPCV sets out agreed price, completion date, and conditions
The CPCV is where due diligence obligations typically sit. Your advogado (lawyer) should verify: caderneta predial (property record), certidão de teor (land registry extract), planning status, and outstanding utility debts before signing.
Stage 2 — Escritura (notarised deed)
The final deed of sale, signed before a notário (notary) or at a Conservatória do Registo Predial (land registry office). Notarial functions were partially liberalised in Portugal — completing at a conservatória is cheaper. Balance of price is paid at this meeting. IMT and stamp duty are paid before signing.
Timeline
1–3 months is typical. Faster than Italy or France. Cash purchases can complete in 2–4 weeks.
Lawyer recommendation
An advogado (lawyer) is not legally required but strongly recommended. Unlike France, the Portuguese notary does not conduct due diligence — they authenticate the transaction only. The advogado is your due diligence resource.
Based on Ordem dos Advogados, Câmara do Notariado
Last reviewed: Feb 2026