The process of buy a property in Portugal can be completed effortlessly and in absolute security, as the law covering property transactions is very specific and complete.

The first step to purchases one property in Portugal consists of written promissory contract containing the terms of the sale and a subsequent notarized sales contact. When the promissory contract is entered into, the buyer pays a nonrefundable deposit of usually 10% of the purchase price.

Subsequently, the remainder of the purchase price becomes payable when the notarized sales contract (Title Transfer ), is entered into.

When the conditions set out in the Promise of Sale and Purchase Contract have been met, the document of transfer of the title deeds, the Title Transfer, is drawn up at a Public Notary Office, where it is signed by the parties.

This Title Transfer is effectively the final Sale and Purchase Contract and is also often referred to as the 'promised contract' in the Promise of Sale and Purchase Contract.