Buy on Portugal's Lisbon coast, guided from first search to keys
A clear, honest guide for US buyers looking at property in Portugal. We are a local group that helps you buy through our real-estate arm, Nduni, and then runs the home for you afterward, with over twenty years on this coast behind us.
Buying in Portugal from the United States, done properly
Buying a home abroad should not mean guessing. Portugal welcomes foreign buyers, and Americans purchase on the same legal footing as locals, but the process, the taxes and the residency rules changed recently and are easy to get wrong from a distance. This page walks you through how it actually works in 2026, what to budget for, and how our group helps you buy well and then earn from the home.
The honest answers, before the sales pitch
Yes. Portugal places no restrictions on foreign ownership. US buyers purchase on the same legal footing as locals, and the process is well established for international buyers.
Not for most of it. Your tax number (NIF) and a bank account can be arranged remotely through a representative, and a lawyer can act for you. Many buyers visit for viewings and the deed, but it is not always required.
No, not anymore. The real-estate route to the Golden Visa was removed in October 2023. Property here is a lifestyle and investment decision, not a residency shortcut. If you also want residency, it is arranged separately, and we can point you to the right lawyers.
Yes. Portuguese banks lend to non-residents, typically up to around 60 to 70 percent of the value, so a larger deposit than a resident would need. Exact terms depend on the bank and your profile.
The original Non-Habitual Resident scheme closed to new arrivals, and its successor is narrow and aimed at specific high-value roles. Purchase taxes also apply. The rules shifted in 2026, so we connect you with Portuguese tax advisors before you commit.
This is where the group is different. With over twenty years managing rentals on this coast, we can model what a specific home realistically earns, season by season and net of costs, rather than quoting a brochure yield.
The six steps, from tax number to title
The Portuguese process is well-trodden for foreign buyers. Here is the path, and where we and Nduni step in to keep it moving.
Get your NIF
A Portuguese tax number is the first thing every buyer needs. It is usually arranged remotely through a fiscal representative in a week or two.
Open a bank account
A local account makes it simple to move funds and pay taxes and utilities. Portuguese banks accept documented US income, and it can start alongside the NIF.
Search, view and offer
Nduni shortlists and shows you homes on the Lisbon coast, then agrees the price. Budget roughly 7 to 9 percent on top of the price for taxes and fees.
Sign the CPCV
The promissory contract is the first binding step, with a deposit (commonly around 10 percent) that locks in the price, deadlines and conditions.
Due diligence and financing
Your lawyer verifies title, licences and any debts, and the bank finalises any mortgage, all before you complete.
Pay taxes and sign the deed
You settle the transfer tax and stamp duty, sign the Escritura before a notary, and your lawyer registers the home in your name.
One accountable team, from the offer to the income
Buying blind from abroad is where money is lost. Our group pairs Nduni on acquisition with Portugal Portfolio on management, so the same people who help you buy also run the home afterward.
- On-the-ground due diligence. We check title, licences, debts and short-term rental (AL) eligibility before you commit, catching what a remote buyer cannot see.
- The tricky parts, handled. NIF, bank account, fiscal representation, and coordinating the lawyer and notary so taxes are paid correctly and the deed is not delayed.
- Realistic income modeling. Over twenty years of operating data tells you what a specific home actually rents for and nets, not a headline yield.
- One partner, purchase through management. No stitching together strangers, and no managing a property alone from the US.
Meet Nduni, our property partner in Cascais
Portugal Portfolio manages homes. Buying and selling them is handled by Nduni Luxury Properties (Nduni Property Portfolio and Management), a licensed Cascais estate agency (AMI 10458) and the group's real-estate arm. Nduni is an English and Portuguese speaking team specialising in the Cascais and Lisbon coast market, guiding international buyers through purchase, investment and holiday-rental opportunities.
- Buyer's agent representation for international and US clients
- Access to Cascais and Lisbon coast listings and opportunities
- Investment and holiday-rental guidance, informed by real management data
- Golden Visa and residency support through trusted legal partners
Nduni Luxury Properties, Cascais. Licensed estate agent, AMI 10458. Cascais office: +351 21 486 7767.
Buying in Portugal as an American, answered
Can US citizens buy property in Portugal?
Do I have to travel to Portugal to buy?
Does buying property in Portugal give me a Golden Visa?
Can Americans get a mortgage in Portugal?
What taxes and costs apply when buying?
Can I still use the NHR tax scheme?
Good to know. This page is general information for US buyers considering property in Portugal. It is not legal, tax or investment advice, and the rules change. Portugal Portfolio and Nduni will connect you with qualified Portuguese legal and tax advisors for your specific situation. US citizens should also take cross-border US tax advice, as US tax and reporting obligations (including on foreign accounts and rental income) continue to apply.
Thinking about buying in Portugal from the US?
Tell us what you are looking for and your rough budget. Nduni will help you find and buy it, and Portugal Portfolio can run it as a rental afterward. One group, from the first search to your first payout.
Personalise your stay experience
Our made-to-measure guest area will transform your stay into a personalized experience. Access essential amenities, arrange transportation, book activities and tours, and receive local tips—all tailored to your preferences and rental in Lisbon. Enjoy a seamless and customized stay with Portugal Portfolio.
