How to Rent a Home in Portugal

Navigating the process of renting a home in Portugal for the first time can feel overwhelming. Numerous questions might arise: Should I consult a lawyer? Are appliances typically included in rentals? How can I discover quality rental properties? Which neighborhoods will best suit my needs? These are just the tip of the iceberg. Dive in for answers to these pressing questions and gain insights from our members who've made Portugal their home.

"Portugal is a beautiful country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture. If you're an expat planning to move to Portugal, one of the first things you'll need to do is find a place to live. Renting an apartment is a popular choice for many expats, but the process can be a bit different than what you're used to. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully rent an apartment in Portugal.

How Do You Find a Rental Property in Portugal?

There are several ways to find rental properties in Portugal. Online property portals such as Idealista, Casa Sapo, and OLX are popular resources. Local newspapers and real estate agencies can also be useful. Word of mouth can be surprisingly effective, so don't hesitate to ask around. It's also common to see "for rent" signs on properties, so keep your eyes open when exploring your desired area.

Does Portugal Have an MLS Type System?

Portugal does not have a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) like in the United States. Instead, each real estate agency has its own listings. This means you may need to check with multiple agencies to find all available properties in your desired area.

Do Brokers Have Licenses and How Do I Know if They Are Licensed?

Yes, real estate agents in Portugal must be licensed by the Instituto dos Mercados Públicos, do Imobiliário e da Construção (IMPIC). You can verify an agent's license by asking for their AMI number and checking it on the IMPIC website.

Should I Buy or Rent?

This depends on your personal circumstances and plans. If you're planning to stay in Portugal long-term, buying might be a good investment. However, renting can provide more flexibility and less financial commitment, especially if you're unsure about your long-term plans.

Is It Difficult to Find Rentals in Portugal?

Finding a rental in Portugal can be challenging, especially in popular areas like Lisbon and Porto. The demand often exceeds the supply, leading to higher prices and competition. However, with patience and persistence, you can find a suitable property.

What Documents Are Required When Renting an Apartment?

When renting an apartment in Portugal, you'll typically need to provide your passport, proof of income (such as pay slips or a job contract), and a Portuguese fiscal number (NIF). Some landlords may also ask for references.

Do I Need a Lawyer When Renting an Apartment in Portugal?

While it's not mandatory, having a lawyer can be beneficial, especially if you're not fluent in Portuguese. A lawyer can review the rental contract, ensure your rights are protected, and help with any legal issues that may arise. The cost can vary, but expect to pay around €200-€500.

How Long Is the Typical Lease For?

The typical lease in Portugal is for one year, but it can be renewed. Some landlords may offer shorter or longer leases depending on the situation.

Do I Have to Pay a Deposit?

Yes, it's standard to pay a security deposit when renting in Portugal. This is usually equivalent to one or two months' rent.

What Other Upfront Costs Are There When Renting?

In addition to the security deposit, you'll typically need to pay the first month's rent upfront. Some landlords may also require a guarantor or additional deposit if you're a foreigner or don't have a steady income in Portugal.

Are Utilities Included?

Utilities are usually not included in the rent and need to be set up and paid for separately. The cost can vary depending on usage and location, but expect to pay around €100-€200 per month for electricity, water, and gas.

Are Furnished or Unfurnished Rentals More Popular?

Both furnished and unfurnished rentals are common in Portugal. Furnished apartments typically include basic furniture and appliances, while unfurnished apartments may not include anything, not even kitchen appliances. Consider your needs and budget when deciding which option is best for you," said one expat living in Portugal.

Expats Talk about What Type of Housing They Live In

"We decided to wait before jumping in and buying and watched the buying behaviours, issues other expats had, studied the market, visited houses extensively. At present we have decided not too buy due to the exchange rate issues," said one expat living in Tomar.

"I live in a single family four bedroom home. To be honest I don't really know of any US expats in my area. The people up north are very friendly, so most of our support circle is Portuguese," wrote a member in Braga.

"We are in a mid-rise condo building, renting a 2 bedroom apartment. We scoured all of the online sites, and fortunately took the advice of the owner of a holiday rentals site (Portugal Portfolio) to rent through her for 1 month and take that time to look around. This resulted in us finding our current home that we'd have never known about, at a better price, and ideally situated in an area of both local residents and holiday-renters, with every amenity within walking distance. We have no car--we walk to the market, beach, restaurants. We rent a car for excursions further away, as we are visiting every part of Portugal that we can, taking a trip every few weeks," commented one expat who made the move to Cascais and Estoril.

Expats Talk about How they Found their Home

"We travelled extensively around Portugal, and although we wanted to live in the far north it was too cold in winter so we travelled further south and loved Tomar with its peaceful atmosphere, good connections, good shopping for my wife, good facilities and excellent access. We lived close by for 3 years," commented an expat living in Tomar.

"I first lived in an apartment near the University. You can never go wrong living around a large school. People tend to be more open to help. I eventually bought a proprty and built a four bedroom home in a quiet section of the city. The land was a bit more expensive than other areas but it was well worth it. If your going to build.... please watch your contractor closely and NEVER pay for anything up front, only for work that has been done. You can get yourself into trouble that way," said an expat in Braga.

"We came to Portugal last year for 2 weeks. We explored two areas only: first, the Algarve and next, Lisboa. These selections were based on weather, as we didn't want the colder weather in the North of Portugal. The Algarve is dead in winter, congested in summer, and just stuffed with Brits. The Lisboa area was delightful but we were sold when we took a train from Lisboa to Cascais. This is ideal: generally reliably nice weather, pristine beaches, restaurants all over the narrow streets and squares as well as along the pedestrian esplanade along the ocean. An easy train ride into Lisbon any time you want more culture or diversions, while plenty of museums, shows and parks in the Estoril/Cascais area. IDEAL," remarked one expat who made the move to Cascais and Estoril.

"By cost and internet posts on Idealista. I had 10 days to get an address. Price was a big concern. I looked at 3 listings, 1 in Porto and 2 in neighboring Gaia. I chose the bigger place in Gaia. It was the right size and price. I was lucky that the Remax agent was honest and super helpful and spoke English! It is a good place in a nice neighborhood. Do your research beforehand and have representation, preferable an honest attorney," explained one expat living in Porto.

"One way to find a place to live in Portugal is to search online. You can search for real estate websites, such as idealista.com and imovirtual.com, which often list a variety of different types of rentals ranging from holiday apartments to long-term residence. Additionally, you can search on Facebook groups and Expat forums, as many expats offer advice and help finding accommodation on these platforms. For a more customised option, you may wish to consider using a rental agency or estate agent, as they will be able to find properties to fit your exact requirements. Finally, you can also search for classified ad sites, such as OLX, for places to rent," said one expat in Portugal.