Find a rental agreement in Portugal
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min read
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Are you relocating to Portugal and making sure everything is in order? Congratulations! One of the main steps in your journey is finding a place to rent. 😊
Whether you're navigating the rental market, understanding legal requirements, or exploring your options, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the perfect rental property in Portugal.
Understanding housing rental in Portugal
The rental market in Portugal is diversified, with prices changing greatly depending on region.
In places like Lisbon and Porto, demand is great, resulting in higher rental prices. In contrast, smaller cities and rural places, like as Alentejo and Castelo Branco, provide more economical options. Being informed of industry trends will help you set reasonable goals and budget accordingly.
Registering Rental Contracts with Finanças
When renting a property in Portugal, it is crucial to ensure that the rental contract is properly registered by the owner at Finanças (the Portuguese tax authority). This registration is a legal requirement and serves to protect both the tenant and the landlord.
If the contract is not registered, you may face significant challenges, such as being unable to use the rental agreement for Portuguese visa applications or to change your NIF address. Therefore, it's essential to be cautious with rental agreements and verify that the owner has fulfilled this registration requirement to avoid potential disputes or legal challenges.
Rental market in Portugal
Rentals in Portugal are on the rise; 2024 saw its highest increase so far (6%). For the past few years, the country has been an advantageous target for investors seeking to purchase and develop properties.
But even with these indicators, the country is still an affordable solution for those wishing to relocate. Several areas in the country, along with urban centers, continue to have lower costs than in other countries, making them a desirable option for foreigners.
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How are properties categorized in Portugal?
In Portugal, properties fall into two main categories:
- Apartments: Designated as (T)
- Houses or Villas: Designated as (V)
For instance, a property with three rooms receives the designation T3 or V3. If it's a studio, should be T0 or V0.
The numbers always indicate the amount of bedrooms.
⚠️ A few properties may show T/V 1+1 or T/V 2 + 1. Usually, the plus one indicates the transformation of a different room into another bedroom.
Most sought-out areas in Portugal
Some areas are more costly than others. When you wander through less-populated areas, the rent will be lower. However, in great urban centers and highly touristic areas, prices will increase.
Lisbon
Lisbon and its surroundings, aka the Lisbon Metropolitan Area (AML), are the country's capital and economic center, an expat hub, and a touristic powerhouse, so they hold the highest price per square meter. It's easy to find T1s that reach 1000€.
Porto
Porto and its Metropolitan Area (AMP) are the cultural and industrial heart of the country. Porto, the most populated area in Portugal, is also a great harbor for foreigners, with a huge tourist impact that directly affects rental prices.
Braga
Braga is the third-largest city in Portugal, part of AMP, and it houses one of the country's biggest universities: the University of Minho. Students and foreigners highly value the area due to its proximity to Porto, excellent infrastructure, and more affordable prices compared to Porto.
Algarve
Tourist activity significantly impacts the Algarve region. Numerous resorts and rentals cater exclusively to visitors, dotting the area. In addition, the area is also a getaway for European pensioners and summer visitors, with second homes on the coast. Prices are up here, either due to tourist activity or property speculation.
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How to find a rental property in Portugal
There are several ways to find rental properties in Portugal. Online platforms like Idealista, OLX, and Imovirtual are popular for property listings.
Real estate agents can also provide personalized assistance and help you navigate the market. Networking with other expatriates can be a valuable resource for finding rental properties.
By yourself
- Olx
- CustoJusto
- Blueground
- Imovirtual
- Uniplaces
- Flatio
- Facebook groups
- Idealista
- Spot-a-home
Portuguese way: Facebook groups, OLX, CustoJusto and Idealista
Most Portuguese residents use groups on Facebook, Olx, Custojusto, or Idealista to find their rental.
However, given the high number of scams, it's crucial for non-residents to exercise extra caution when using these options. If you decide to explore these websites, make sure you don't make any payment (even through AirBnb) before signing a contract or viewing the apartment through video calls.
Spot-a-home
Spot-a-home is an easy, safe, and efficient service for rentals in Portugal.
Spot-a-home offers several options, including a guaranteed inspection (by their team), a simplified connection with your landlord, and a straight-to-the-point rental agreement. It's a fantastic solution for visa appointments, allowing you to solve everything easily online, without the need of a guarantor.
⚠️ Here at AnchorLess, we have a special discount code for Spot-a-Home. Get in touch with us via chat and retrieve your code.
Agencies
- Remax
- Century21
- ERA
- Portugal the Place
- Ukio (in Lisbon)
- De Brito Properties
Ukio
Ukio is a luxury service in Lisbon, catering to exclusive and higher-quality apartments.
If you decide to use them, make sure you fill in 'AnchorLess' in the "Anything else you would like us to know?" area for priority support.
De Brito Properties
De Brito Properties has a team specializing in foreign contracts.
With an affordable rate for rental agreements, it's a fantastic solution if you want to have the assistance of a property broker, ensuring a successful and safe transaction from beginning to end.
De Brito Properties
De Brito Properties has a team specializing in foreign contracts.
With an affordable rate for rental agreements, it's a fantastic solution if you want to have the assistance of a property broker, ensuring a successful and safe transaction from beginning to end.
Rental costs and fees in Portugal
Monthly rent
As in any other place, every month you must pay the rent, unless when contract is paid in full when signing the contract. 💸
Payment period and value must be stated in the rental contract.
Guarantors and deposits
In Portugal, it is typical to pay rental deposits. Landlords typically anticipate a deposit equal to two months' rent. However, unlike legislation in other European countries, there are no set standards for how long landlords can keep your deposit.
In populated areas, it's common to see landlords and agencies requesting at least a 3-month deposit plus a guarantor. Usually, a guarantor is a Portuguese national with a solid income and tax return.
Utilities and internet
Unless stated in the contract agreement, utility bills are another cost in addition to your monthly rent. 💸
When looking for a property, consider its energy efficiency score (A = best, F = worst), as well as the energy efficiency of your appliances, to ensure a lower energy bill.
Visa and residency requirements
Understanding the visa and residency requirements is crucial for a smooth move. Ensure you have all necessary documentation and a rental agreement according to the visa's requirements (12-month lease in most cases).
Closing the rental
Once you've found your ideal property, finalizing the rental involves signing the lease and setting your move-in date. Ensure you understand all terms and conditions before committing. ✅
Ensure your rental contract matches your predicted arrival date in Portugal to comply with visa requirements.
Final words
Renting a place in Portugal as a foreigner can be a smooth experience with the right preparation and knowledge.
By understanding the rental market, legal considerations, and cultural nuances, you can find a home that suits your needs and enjoy all that Portugal has to offer. Welcome to your new adventure in Portugal!
Frequently asked questions
How do I make rental payments in Portugal?
What should I look for when viewing rental properties?
Can foreigners rent a house in Portugal?
Is it necessary to speak Portuguese to rent a place in Portugal?
Are there any increases in rental contracts in Portugal?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Contact our team of experts.
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