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Notes from the Zephyr team on the Portuguese mortgage market, regulation and homeownership.

Portuguese mortgage broker shaking hands with a smiling client across a modern office desk
FeaturedAbout Brokerage

Why Use a Mortgage Broker in Portugal? The 5 Key Advantages

Buying property in Portugal? A mortgage broker can save you time, money and stress. Here are five compelling reasons to use one instead of going to the bank directly.

5 May 20264 min readRead article
Modern apartment under construction in Portugal with tower cranes against a blue sky
Investment & Visas

Buying Off-Plan in Portugal: Risks, Rewards, and Mortgage Considerations

Off-plan property purchases in Portugal offer potential savings but come with unique risks — especially around financing. Here's what buyers need to know.

7 April 20265 min read
Homeowner reviewing mortgage refinancing options on a laptop at a bright Portuguese kitchen counter
Mortgage Basics

How to Remortgage or Refinance Your Portuguese Property

Already have a mortgage in Portugal? You may be able to remortgage for a better rate or release equity. Here's how the refinancing process works.

10 March 20265 min read
Side-by-side view of Lisbon's yellow tram and Porto's colorful Ribeira riverside
Buying in Portugal

Lisbon vs Porto: Where Should You Buy Property in Portugal?

Lisbon and Porto are Portugal's two biggest property markets. Compare prices, lifestyle, rental yields and investment potential before deciding where to buy.

10 February 20266 min read
Retired couple sipping coffee on a Lisbon balcony overlooking terracotta rooftops
Tax & Finance

NHR Tax Regime in Portugal: A Guide for New Residents

Portugal's Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime offers significant tax advantages for new residents. Here's how it works and who can benefit.

13 January 20266 min read
Navy blue passport on a marble surface next to a miniature apartment building model
Investment & Visas

Golden Visa Portugal: What Changed in 2024 and What Still Applies

Portugal's Golden Visa rules changed significantly. Learn what still qualifies as a Golden Visa investment and how property buyers should adapt their strategy.

9 December 20255 min read
Top-down view of house keys, calculator, euro banknotes and a property purchase contract on a wooden desk
Buying in Portugal

The True Cost of Buying Property in Portugal: Taxes, Fees & Hidden Costs

Beyond the purchase price, buying property in Portugal involves IMT, stamp duty, notary fees and more. Here's how to budget accurately before you sign.

4 November 20256 min read
Aerial view of a traditional Portuguese house with terracotta roof tiles and small garden
Mortgage Basics

Understanding LTV in Portugal: How Much Can You Borrow?

Loan-to-Value (LTV) rules in Portugal set how much you can borrow relative to the property value. Learn the limits and how they affect your purchase.

7 October 20254 min read
Hand reviewing an interest rate chart next to a Portuguese mortgage contract and calculator
Mortgage Basics

Fixed vs Variable Rate Mortgages in Portugal: Which Should You Choose?

Fixed or variable rate — understanding the difference is critical before you sign a Portuguese mortgage contract. Here's what each option means for your wallet.

8 September 20255 min read
Foreign couple reviewing a mortgage application with a Portuguese broker in a sunlit Lisbon office
Buying in Portugal

How to Get a Mortgage in Portugal as a Foreigner: A Complete Guide

Everything expats and non-residents need to know about applying for a mortgage in Portugal — eligibility, documents, LTV limits, and tips for a smooth process.

5 August 20257 min read