Real Estate in Porto, Portugal
Last updated on Oct 19, 2023
Summary: People living in Porto, Portugal offer advice about real estate. How do you find a home in Porto? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?
How do I find a place to live in Porto?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Porto involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a small apartment to a larger house, depending on your needs and financial situation. Next, you should research different neighborhoods in Porto to find one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Some popular areas include Ribeira, Foz do Douro, and Vila Nova de Gaia. Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, access to public transportation, safety, and the presence of amenities such as shops, restaurants, and parks. Once you've identified some potential neighborhoods, you can start looking for specific properties. There are several online platforms that list rentals in Porto, such as Idealista, OLX, and Casa Sapo. These websites allow you to filter properties by location, price, size, and other features. In addition to online listings, you might also want to consider hiring a real estate agent. An agent can help you navigate the local market, arrange viewings, and negotiate with landlords. However, keep in mind that this service usually comes at a cost. When you find a property you're interested in, arrange a viewing to inspect it in person. Pay attention to the condition of the property, and don't be afraid to ask questions about things like utilities, maintenance, and lease terms. Finally, once you've found a place you like, you'll need to sign a lease and pay a deposit. Make sure to read the lease carefully and understand all the terms before signing. It's also a good idea to get a receipt for your deposit, in case of any disputes later on. Remember, finding a place to live can take some time, so it's a good idea to start your search well in advance of your move. Good luck with your search," remarked one member in Porto.
"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, Portugal.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Porto?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Porto
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Porto
- Discovering the Best of Porto
- Cost of Living in Porto
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Portugal
- Best Places to Live in Portugal
- Real Estate in Portugal
- Healthcare in Portugal
- Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Portugal
- More Advice about Retiring in Portugal