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Clara Silva da Costa
Portuguese property transactions involve far more than signing documents and transferring funds. Behind every real estate purchase or sale lies a legal framework that requires careful analysis—ownership verification, due diligence, contract negotiation, tax compliance, land registry checks, and regulatory approvals. A single overlooked issue can create significant financial risk, delay your transaction, or affect the long-term security of your investment.
As Clara Silva da Costa, a Portuguese lawyer with over 14 years of experience, I advise private clients, international investors, multinational corporations, embassies, and family offices on complex property matters across Portugal.
I am a member of the Portuguese Bar Association (Ordem dos Advogados), Bar Number 45229L, and a member of the European Association of Lawyers. My academic and professional credentials include a Degree in Law, postgraduate qualifications in Registries and Notarial Practice and Labour Law, and previous experience as:
- Real Estate Lawyer at Bellver and Candela Group until 2009
- Legal Adviser at the United Nations Law and Justice Research Institute until 2011
- Criminal and Administrative Litigation Lawyer, handling media-covered cases early in my career
Since founding my private client and business law practice in 2009, I have led an in-house legal team of over 10 professionals, delivering more than 20 legal services, with real estate law remaining one of our core practice areas. For clients seeking a trusted property lawyer in Portugal, my role is simple: to protect your interests, reduce legal risk, and ensure that every property decision is made with confidence.
Why You Need a Property Lawyer in Portugal
Portugal offers exceptional opportunities for property buyers, investors, and international residents—but navigating Portuguese property law without independent legal representation can expose you to unnecessary risk.
A property lawyer represents your interests exclusively. Unlike estate agents, developers, or sellers, your lawyer’s responsibility is to identify legal issues before they become problems.
We help clients avoid:
- Hidden debts
- Ownership disputes
- Illegal renovations
- Land registry inconsistencies
- Unfavorable contracts
- Municipal zoning restrictions
- Tax compliance errors
- Registration delays
Community experiences shared by buyers often highlight the importance of independent legal review—especially around CPCV (promissory contracts), financing clauses, and due diligence. Whether you are purchasing a home, acquiring an investment property, or managing an inherited asset, experienced legal guidance is essential.
Property Law Services in Portugal
Property Purchase and Sale Representation
We provide full legal support throughout every stage of the property transaction. This includes:
- Preliminary Advice
- Due Diligence
- Land Registry
- Tax Verification
- Contract Negotiation
- CPCV Review
- Closing Representation
- Ownership Registration
From the moment you identify a property until your ownership is fully registered, we protect your legal and financial position.
Property Due Diligence
One of the most critical services a property lawyer provides is legal due diligence. Before any contract is signed, we carefully investigate:
Ownership Verification
We confirm the seller’s legal right to transfer ownership.
Land Registry & Tax
We examine mortgages, liens, easements, and confirm taxes are consistent with legal records.
Licensing & Urban Planning
We review habitation licenses, construction approvals, and renovation permits.
Property specialists in Portugal consistently emphasize due diligence as essential to safeguarding buyers and sellers.
Property Lawyer for Foreign Buyers
Portugal remains one of Europe’s most attractive destinations. I regularly assist non-resident investors, expatriates, high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and embassies.
Foreign buyers often require support with:
- Obtaining a Portuguese tax number (NIF)
- Opening Portuguese bank accounts
- Power of attorney arrangements
- Remote property acquisitions
- Cross-border ownership structures
- Portuguese property tax planning
Our team ensures that international clients can complete transactions efficiently—even when they are unable to travel to Portugal.
Property Investment & Asset Structuring
Buying property is not just about acquisition—it is also about long-term legal and financial strategy. We advise on:
- Individual vs company ownership and Corporate acquisition structures
- Asset protection planning and Real estate portfolio management
- Commercial property investments and Rental/Leasing compliance
For sophisticated investors, structuring can significantly affect tax exposure, liability protection, and future flexibility.
Lease Agreements and Landlord Support
Property ownership often requires continued legal support after purchase. We assist with:
- Residential Leases
- Commercial Leases
- Rent Enforcement
- Tenant Disputes
- Contract Renewals
- Management Compliance
Clear legal agreements can prevent disputes and protect long-term value.
Property Disputes and Litigation
While many transactions proceed smoothly, disputes can arise unexpectedly. My background in litigation strengthens our ability to act decisively.
Areas of Representation:
- • Contract disputes and Ownership conflicts
- • Boundary and Construction disagreements
- • Municipal administrative challenges
- • Landlord-tenant litigation
Early legal intervention often prevents minor issues from escalating.
A Legal Team Supporting Your Property Matters
A trusted property lawyer is backed by a strong legal team. Alongside my practice, I work with experienced professionals who strengthen our service across real estate and cross-border legal matters.
Ana Estevas
Ana brings extensive expertise in tax, real estate, commercial, and citizenship law, with exceptional skill in handling complex international legal issues.
Rita Pinheiro
Rita specializes in real estate law, legal inspections, due diligence, and citizenship matters, providing meticulous support throughout the process.
Mila JoĂŁo
Mila oversees our legal systems, data management, and operational coordination, ensuring secure and efficient case handling.
Together, we provide personalized legal support backed by rigorous internal systems and professional collaboration.
Why Clients Choose Our Property Law Practice
Combining legal expertise with practical, strategic guidance.
14+ Years of Experience
Extensive experience across Portuguese property law and cross-border legal matters.
Licensed and Regulated
Fully qualified Portuguese lawyer, registered with the Portuguese Bar Association (Ordem dos Advogados), Bar Number 45229L.
International Perspective
Experience advising multinational companies, embassies, family offices, and international private clients.
Recognized Standing
Recipient of several distinctions in international legal directories and active member of respected legal associations.
Clear Communication
We explain legal issues in plain, practical language—particularly important for foreign clients unfamiliar with Portuguese law.
Long-Term Trust
Many clients return for future acquisitions, tax coordination, and estate planning long after their initial transaction.
Your Trusted Property Lawyer in Portugal
Property decisions are among the most significant financial and personal commitments you will make. As Clara Silva da Costa, I provide trusted legal guidance grounded in experience, professional authority, and a commitment to protecting your interests at every stage.
Whether you are: Buying property, Selling real estate, Investing in Portuguese assets, Managing a cross-border transaction, or Resolving a property dispute…
…you deserve legal representation that is experienced, strategic, and dependable. With the support of an exceptional in-house legal team, I help clients navigate Portuguese property law with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind.