Buying guides
Buying at a Portuguese court sale
Portuguese courts sell homes through an enforcement agent (agente de execução), mostly by online auction on e-leiloes.pt. The process is well organised and open to foreign buyers.
Checked 30 September 2026. Rules and rates change, so confirm the details with a local professional.
Your team
- An advogado (lawyer) or solicitador to check the land registry certificate (certidão permanente) and any charges.
- A fiscal representative if you live outside the EU.
- An engineer or architect for a condition survey if you can view.
- You'll need a Portuguese tax number (NIF) and a Portuguese bank account.
Viewing
The enforcement agent or the appointed keeper (fiel depositário) arranges viewings. Their details are on the official notice.
How much you can offer
Bids are usually accepted from 85% of the base value (valor base). The highest valid bid when the auction closes wins.
Paying
The enforcement agent sets the deadlines for the deposit and the balance. The transfer is then registered in your name.
Taxes
You pay property transfer tax (IMT) on a sliding scale, and stamp duty (Imposto do Selo) of 0.8% on the price.
Occupied homes
Check the notice. If the home is occupied, possession can take time after the sale.
General information only, not financial advice. Rules and lender criteria change; confirm with a regulated adviser.