Here is a rough outline of what the real estate purchasing process generally looks like in Portugal:

1. Understand your nice-to-haves vs. need-to-haves: Many potential buyers dream of certain types of properties with access to everything. In practice, finding the right property in Portugal for you often requires trade-offs. These can be difficult decisions. It can help to hone in on the right town/region to focus your energy, and the right homes to prioritize, to make a list of what is absolutely essential in your new home, vs. what would be nice but not necessary.
2. Plan an exploratory trip: Before you make a big investment, make sure that you take the time to find the perfect spot for you and your family. We recommend taking at least one scouting trip, visiting multiple locations, and trying to spend as much time in several different places before purchasing a property.
3. Work with a buyer’s agent: There is no MLS system in Portugal, which has created a more fractured, locally-driven real estate market. This can disadvantage buyers, specifically if they are not particularly familiar with how things work in Portugal. Agents may have incentives to push prospective buyers towards certain properties, whether they are right for the client or not. Buyer’s agents do receive property commissions, but typically do not represent specific properties they are promoting, and therefore represent the buyer’s interests. 
4. Secure your NIF: You will need a Portuguese tax identification number (or NIF) to purchase property in Portugal. 
5. View listings: This step can help you understand the market and narrow down your options. View a number of properties in your selected area at various price points. Be willing to wait if you do not find a place that meets your criteria. 
6. Find a lawyer: It’s essential to enlist the services of a qualified real estate attorney. Your lawyer will help you navigate the purchase process and can ensure your purchase supports your visa process (if relevant).
7. Put in an offer & negotiate: Your agent will help you make an offer on the property of your choice. Keep in mind that negotiating is expected. If the offer is accepted, you’re on your way! Some owners may accept financing deals.
8. Initial research: Before signing any contract it is common for buyers to conduct initial research on the property and its legal status. That might involve verifying ownership, checking for any existing debts, and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
9. Put down a deposit and sign a promissory contract: Typically you will now sign a promissory contract (contrato de promessa de compra e venda) which outlines the terms and conditions of the sale. While the promissory contract is a binding agreement, it usually includes clauses that allow the buyer to conduct further due diligence, including conveyancing checks.
10. Conduct conveyancing checks: Your attorney will conduct a thorough examination of the property’s legal status, including searches at the land registry, municipal offices, and other relevant authorities to ensure clear title and identify any potential issues.
11. Property inspection: This is the time to do an independent property inspection. If the buyer pulls out without cause, the owner keeps the deposit. 
12. Sign the final deed and pay the balance of the purchase price: Once the conveyancing checks are complete, and both parties have fulfilled their obligations as outlined in the promissory contract, the final step is the signing of the final deed (escritura). This is the official transfer of ownership, and it occurs at a notary office. The notary ensures that all legal requirements are met before registering the property in the buyer’s name.

13. Obtain a Certified Copy of the Deed: After the final deed (escritura) is signed at the notary office, you will receive the original deed. It’s essential to obtain a certified copy of the deed, known as a “Registo Predial,” which will be used for the registration process.

14. Payment of Taxes and Fees: You must pay the applicable property transfer taxes (Imposto Municipal sobre Transmissões) and any other fees required. Ensure that all financial obligations related to the property transaction are settled.

15. Register the deed with the Land Registry: Visit the local land registry office and submit the required documents, including the certified copy of the deed, the completed registration form, and proof of tax payments. Congratulations, you’re now a property owner in Portugal!