Founded in 2009 with trust
Trusted Real Estate Law Firm In Portugal international buyers, investors, and expats
100+Five-Star Reviews
1000+Clients Represnted
80+Countries in Services
14+years of expertise
We are a Portuguese law firm providing clear, independent legal representation for real estate transactions in Portugal. We advise international clients, property buyers, investors, and expats with a strong focus on legal accuracy, risk prevention, and ownership security.
Our real estate practice is built on transparent communication, ethical legal advice, and direct lawyer involvement at every stage of the transaction, from due diligence and contract review to the final deed and land registry registration.
SERVICES
Comprehensive Real Estate Legal Services In Portugal
We provide comprehensive legal services for real estate transactions in Portugal, supporting property buyers, sellers, investors, and international clients with independent legal advice and dedicated representation. Our real estate law services In Portugal cover due diligence, contract drafting and review, fiscal and notarial coordination, and ownership registration, ensuring every property transaction complies fully with Portuguese law and protects our clients’ legal and financial interests.
Due Diligence
We conduct full legal due diligence before you commit:
- Verification at the Conservatória do Registo Predial (Land Registry)
- Checks with Finanças (Tax Authority)
- Review of Municipal Master Plans (PDM)
- Confirmation of a valid Licença de Utilização (habitation license)
This ensures the property can legally be used, sold, and registered in your name.
Contract Drafting & Review (CPCV)
The Contrato Promessa de Compra e Venda (CPCV) is the most critical document in a Portuguese property transaction. We ensure:
- Clear deadlines and conditions
- Balanced penalty clauses
- Proper protection of deposits (typically 10–30%)
- Legal safeguards in case of breach
Mistakes at this stage often result in loss of the deposit.
Fiscal Representation
For non-EU residents, fiscal representation is mandatory to obtain a Portuguese tax number (NIF). We act as your fiscal representative, ensuring:
- Compliance with Portuguese tax law
- Proper communication with tax authorities
- Administrative litigation
The Final Deed (Escritura)
We represent you at the Notary or through the Casa Pronta system to:
- Finalize the transfer of ownership
- Ensure all legal conditions are met
- Register the property correctly in your name
Registration errors can invalidate ownership rights against third parties.
The Legal Roadmap to Buying Property in Portugal
1. Obtaining a NIF
The Número de Identificação Fiscal is the first legal step. It is required for any property transaction.
2. Property Due Diligence
We verify ownership, liens, mortgages, licenses, zoning, and tax status.
3. Reservation Agreement
We review reservation forms often pushed by agents to ensure they are legally safe and refundable when appropriate.
4. Signing the CPCV
This is the point of no return. The deal is legally secured, and the deposit becomes binding.
5. Final Deed & Registration
Ownership is transferred and recorded at the Land Registry, completing the transaction.
Free Legal Consultation
Contact our legal team in Portugal to request a professional review of your real estate matter. We will assess your situation and advise you on the appropriate legal steps.
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See What Our Clients Are Saying About CSC Advogada
With 100+ five-star Google reviews, our clients trust CSC Advogada for reliable legal guidance, transparent communication, and personalised representation.
Clara's team was a great help in my process of getting citizenship. I highly recommend them and will be using them in the future for other services. Great communication.
David Steinberg
Clara and her associates have made what felt impossible possible and I finally got my Portuguese citizenship. They were able to provide sound advice in regards to details that could have complicated by case. They were responsive to my questions and supportive up until the very end. I am very pleased with their services.
Jenny M
I received my Portuguese passport through CSC Lawyers. Communication with the firm was reliable and professional, making the process stress free and enjoyable, even. I will not hesitate to return for legal help in the future.
Ken Taranto
2 days they accompanied us.on the first morning for the ID, on the second for the passport. They collect both certificates and on the third day I collected the doc.from their office.everything went smoothly and maria was wonderful.so I'm happy everything went smoothly with no problem. Thank you very much 🙏 …
Iris Weissman
Clara was extremely helpful during my journey to obtain Portuguese citizenship. The process can be confusing, and there were were times when documents had to be corrected or re-submitted. Clara always helped me understand the process and complete what was necessary. It was a relief to have someone in Portugal who could handle things. I appreciate the help so much, and I definitely recommend this legal office.
Faye R
WHY US?
What Sets us Apart From Other Lawyers in Portugal
Independent Legal Representation Only
We act exclusively in our clients’ legal interests. We have no affiliation with real estate agents, developers, or sellers, ensuring objective advice and zero conflict of interest throughout the transaction.
Deep Due Diligence, Not Surface Checks
Our Portugal real estate lawyers conduct comprehensive legal due diligence, reviewing land registry records, tax status, zoning rules, and licensing to identify risks before you sign or pay a deposit.
Clear English Communication at Every Stage
As English-speaking real estate lawyers in Portugal, we explain complex legal concepts in clear, precise language, ensuring you fully understand your rights, obligations, and risks at every step.
LEARN MORE
Direct Lawyer Involvement — No Delegation
Your matter is handled directly by a qualified lawyer, not passed between assistants. This ensures accuracy, accountability, and consistent legal oversight from start to finish.
LEARN MORECross-Border & International Client Experience
We regularly advise international buyers, investors, and expats, including remote transactions handled through Power of Attorney, with full compliance under Portuguese law.
LEARN MOREPrecision, Ethics, and Long-Term Legal Security
We focus on preventive legal protection, not damage control. Our approach prioritizes lawful ownership, enforceable contracts, and long-term security for resale, inheritance, and asset protection.
LEARN MOREMeet Our Team of Board-Certified Real Estate Lawyers In Portugal
Our team of board-certified lawyers in Portugal provides reliable legal guidance for expats, buyers, and investors. We combine experience, integrity, and client-focused representation to help you navigate your legal matters with confidence.
Clara da Costa
With over 14 years of experience, Clara Silva da Costa is regarded as one of Portugal’s leading legal professionals.
Founder - Lawyer - Attorney at Law - Solicitor - Advocate
Ana Estevas
Tax, real estate, commercial, and citizenship law
Expertise In: tax, real estate, commercial, and citizenship law
Rita Pinheiro
Rita Pinheiro an experienced solicitor in citizenship, real estate law, legal inspections, and due diligence.
Citizenship, real estate law, legal inspections, and due diligence
Conceição Zenida
Experience In resolving complex legal issues, particularly in real estate and family wealth protection.
Citizenship law and real estate management
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I legally need a lawyer to buy a house in Portugal?
Technically no. In practice, buying without a lawyer is highly risky and strongly discouraged.
How much are lawyer fees for property in Portugal?
Typically around 1% + VAT, or a fixed fee depending on complexity.
Can I buy property remotely?
Yes. The entire process can be handled through Power of Attorney.
What is the role of the Notary vs. the Lawyer?
The Notary authenticates documents. The lawyer protects your legal interests.
Clara da Costa
Founder, CSC Advogada | Lisbon
Portuguese Bar Association number 45229L
Ready to Buy in Portugal? Let Us Handle the Legalities.
Whether you are buying in Algarve, Lisbon, Porto, or the Silver Coast, legal certainty matters. Contact us today for independent legal guidance on your property transaction.
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