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Showing posts from August, 2025

Capital Gains Tax in Portugal: What Property Owners and Investors Need to Know

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 Whether you're a resident selling your primary home or an international investor disposing of real estate, understanding how capital gains tax works in Portugal is essential. Like in many countries, the sale of property in Portugal can trigger a capital gains tax liability, but there are important nuances, rates, and exemptions that can significantly affect how much tax you ultimately pay. At Portugal Investment Properties, we support buyers and sellers through every step of the real estate journey, including helping clients understand their tax obligations. This article outlines how capital gains tax in Portugal works, who it applies to, current Portugal capital gains tax rates, and the most common exemptions available. What Is Capital Gains Tax? Capital gains tax (CGT) is the tax applied on the profit made from the sale of an asset — in this case, real estate. The gain is calculated as the difference between the purchase price (adjusted for inflation and certain allowable ex...

Buying Property in Coimbra: A Cultural and Investment Opportunity in Central Portugal

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When thinking about buying property in Portugal, many investors first consider Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve. However, there’s another city that is quietly growing in appeal—Coimbra. Known for its prestigious university, historic charm, and central location, Coimbra offers both cultural richness and strong investment potential. For those seeking a smart alternative to the more saturated markets, buying property in Coimbra presents a compelling opportunity. At Portugal Investment Properties, we believe Coimbra is one of the most underrated destinations for real estate in Portugal. Whether you're looking for a permanent residence, a rental property, or a vacation home, Coimbra delivers a strong balance of lifestyle, affordability, and long-term value. Why Choose Coimbra? Coimbra is located between Lisbon and Porto, offering the convenience of easy travel to either city by train or car. But it’s not just its location that makes it appealing. Coimbra is steeped in history, home to ...

Understanding the Promissory Contract in Portuguese Real Estate

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When it comes to buying property in Portugal, one of the most crucial steps in the transaction process is the promissory contract . Known in Portuguese as the "Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda" (CPCV), this legal agreement plays a vital role in safeguarding both buyers and sellers before the final deed is signed. For international investors, especially those unfamiliar with local legal processes, understanding the promissory contract in real estate is essential to ensure a smooth and secure property purchase. What Is a Promissory Contract? A promissory contract is a legally binding agreement between a buyer and a seller, where both parties commit to completing a property transaction on agreed terms and within a specified timeframe. This contract outlines all the essential details of the sale, such as the purchase price, payment terms, deadlines, and any special conditions that must be met before the final deed can be executed. While it does not transfer ownership, th...

Buying Off-Plan Property in Portugal – A Smart Investment for the Future

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Portugal’s property market has continued to attract international attention thanks to its stable economy, high quality of life, and investor-friendly environment. One of the most popular trends among both domestic and foreign buyers is buying off-plan property . For those unfamiliar with the concept, off-plan properties are homes purchased before construction is completed – sometimes even before building has started. While the idea of buying a home that doesn’t physically exist yet may seem risky to some, off-plan property investment has several clear advantages. When done correctly and with professional guidance, it can offer excellent value, customization opportunities, and strong capital appreciation. What Is Off-Plan Property? Off-plan property refers to purchasing a property based on the plans and designs provided by the developer, rather than on a completed physical structure. Buyers typically pay in stages as the construction progresses, and the final balance is paid upon com...

Understanding the Promissory Contract in Portugal’s Real Estate Market

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When buying or selling property in Portugal, one of the most crucial legal steps is the signing of a promissory contract. This document forms the foundation of a property transaction and provides a level of legal assurance to both parties involved. For anyone considering investing in the Portuguese property market, especially international buyers, understanding the role and implications of a promissory contract in real estate is essential. What is a Promissory Contract? A promissory contract , known in Portuguese as a "Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda," is a legally binding agreement between the buyer and the seller. It is signed before the final deed (escritura) is completed and outlines all the terms and conditions of the sale. This includes the price, payment terms, timeline for completion, and any specific conditions that must be met before the final sale. While not the final act of transfer, this contract plays a significant legal role. By signing a promissory cont...