The Algarve Buyer's Guide

• Buying property in Lagos, Portugal: the step-by-step process
  To buy property in Lagos you get a Portuguese tax number (NIF), sign a promissory contract (CPCV) with a deposit of usually 10%, then complete at the final deed (escritura) before a notary, paying transfer tax (IMT) and stamp duty first. A foreign buyer can do all of it, and the whole process typically takes two to three months.
• The cost of buying property in Portugal in 2026: taxes and fees
  Since May 2026 a non-resident buying a home in Portugal pays a flat 7.5% transfer tax (IMT), not the lower progressive rate residents pay. On top of IMT you pay 0.8% stamp duty, about €375 in notary and registry fees, and optional legal fees of around 1–2%. The seller, not you, pays the estate agent.
• The best areas to buy property in Lagos, Algarve
  In Lagos the main areas buyers choose between are the historic town centre, the Marina, the long beach of Meia Praia, the clifftop Porto de Mós, nearby Praia da Luz, and the quieter inland villages. Which suits you depends on whether you want to walk to restaurants, be on the sand, have sea views, or have more space for your money.
• Can you still get a Golden Visa by buying property in Portugal?
  No. Since October 2023 buying property no longer qualifies for Portugal's Golden Visa. The real-estate route was removed by the Mais Habitação law. You can still buy property freely, it just no longer comes with residence. The routes that still work are investment funds, scientific research, cultural support, and creating a company or jobs.
• Short-term letting (AL) in Lagos: can you rent your property to holidaymakers?
  Maybe, and the national rules reopened in late 2024, but it depends on the specific property and the local council. Portugal lifted its freeze on new short-term rental (Alojamento Local) licences on 1 November 2024, so new registrations are allowed again. But each council can restrict new licences in 'containment zones', so you must check the Lagos council and the national register for your exact address before assuming you can let it.