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Notes from the Zephyr team on the Portuguese mortgage market, regulation and homeownership.
Mortgages in Portugal for Non-Residents: The Complete Guide
LTV limits, the new 7.5% IMT, costs, documents and timelines. Updated for the 2026 rules.
Buying Off-Plan in Portugal: How Staged Mortgage Releases Work
Off-plan purchases in Portugal: how banks release funds in stages, what you pay before completion, and the risks to check in the promissory contract.
DSTI vs DCR: How Portuguese Banks Judge Affordability
DSTI, DCR and stress tests explained: the three affordability measures Portuguese banks use, and how each one changes the amount you can borrow.
Mortgage Approval Timeline in Portugal: Week by Week
How long does a Portuguese mortgage take? A realistic week-by-week timeline from first documents to deed, and where files actually get stuck.
Portugal's 45% mortgage DSTI cap: the new rules explained
The maximum mortgage DSTI in Portugal is now 45% (Bank of Portugal Recommendation 1/2026). What changed and what to do if your file is borderline.
Why Use a Mortgage Broker in Portugal? 5 Key Advantages
A mortgage broker in Portugal can save you time, money and stress. Five reasons to use a broker instead of going to the bank directly.
Buying Off-Plan in Portugal: Risks and Due Diligence
Buying off-plan in Portugal: the main risks, the checks to make before signing the promissory contract (CPCV) and how to protect your deposit.
Remortgage in Portugal: How to Refinance & Save (2026)
Already have a mortgage in Portugal? Learn how remortgaging works, when refinancing makes sense and how to get a better rate or release equity.
Lisbon vs Porto: Where to Buy Property in Portugal (2026)
Lisbon or Porto? Compare property prices, rental yields, lifestyle and investment potential in Portugal's two biggest markets before you buy.
NHR and IFICI in Portugal: Tax Regimes for New Residents (2026)
Portugal's NHR regime is closed to new applicants and was replaced by IFICI. What IFICI offers new residents, and what NHR still means for those already registered.
Portugal Golden Visa 2026: What Changed & What Qualifies
Portugal's Golden Visa rules changed — real estate no longer qualifies. See which investment routes still work and how buyers should adapt.
Cost of Buying Property in Portugal: Taxes & Fees (2026)
IMT, stamp duty, notary and legal fees: discover the true cost of buying property in Portugal and budget accurately before you sign.
LTV in Portugal: How Much Can You Borrow? (2026 Limits)
Loan-to-value limits in Portugal explained: 90% for a permanent own home, 80% for other purposes, and usually 60–80% for non-residents. See how LTV shapes your deposit.
Fixed vs Variable Mortgage Rates in Portugal: 2026 Guide
Fixed or variable rate mortgage in Portugal? Compare rates, Euribor trends and mixed options to choose the right one before you sign.
Mortgages in Portugal for Foreigners: 2026 Complete Guide
Can foreigners get a mortgage in Portugal? Yes — learn eligibility, required documents, LTV limits (usually 60–80% for non-residents) and the step-by-step process.