Making buying an apartment in Lisbon easy for the over 50!

Portugal’s capital offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern living, making it an ideal destination for that.

Whether you’re planning to move, invest, or retire, here’s what you need to know about buying an apartment in Lisbon and how to make the transition stress-free.

Why Lisbon? The Charm of Portugal’s Capital

Lisbon has become a favorite for expats and investors alike, and it’s easy to see why. With its sunny climate, rich history, and welcoming community, the city offers an unmatched quality of life. Here are a few key reasons why women over 50 are choosing Lisbon:

• Lifestyle in Lisbon: From picturesque cobblestone streets and world-class restaurants to a broad variety of cultural events and green spaces, Lisbon offers a very balanced lifestyle, that has something for everyone. To get a feeling for it, while you are in Lisbon for a visit, take a stroll through Jardim da Estrela, an amazing park with lots of tropical plants and trees, or explore Feira da Ladra, a flea market right in the heart of the old town.

• Cost of Living in Lisbon: Compared to other European capitals, Lisbon is relatively affordable. While property prices have risen, they remain competitive for those looking to invest or settle down.

• Safety and Healthcare: Portugal ranks as one of the safest countries in the world and boasts an excellent healthcare system, making it a very recommendable choice for retirement. You’ll find many English-speaking doctors, and private healthcare options are often more affordable than in other countries.

• Visa Options: Portugal offers a variety of visa options for non-EU residents, allowing property buyers and investors to gain residency and enjoy the benefits of living in Europe. While the previous Golden Visa program has been discontinued, there are still several alternatives, such as the D7 visa for passive income earners, the D2 visa for entrepreneurs, and the D8 visa for digital nomads. These visas provide opportunities for long-term residence and integration into Portuguese society.

Three Perspectives: Living, Investing, and Retiring

1. Living in Lisbon

Moving to Lisbon offers a chance to immerse yourself in a rich culture while enjoying modern conveniences. Neighborhoods like Chiado and Príncipe Real are quite lively and ideal for those who love busy city living, while quieter areas like Campo de Ourique or Areeiro offer a more laid-back pace.

What to Expect in Lisbon:

• Community: Lisbon has a growing expat community, including many women over 50. Joining local groups or events can help you build a network. Check out meetups or Facebook groups like “Lisbon Expats & Locals” for connections.

• Transport: The city’s reliable public transport system (consisting of the metro, trams, busses and ferries), coupled with walkable neighborhoods, makes getting around easy.

• Language: While many Lisboetas (that’s how the inhabitants of Lisbon are called in Portuguese) speak English, learning a bit of Portuguese will go a long way. Consider enrolling in a language school like Lusa Language School or using apps to get started.

• Personal Tips: Explore local cafes like “A Brasileira” in Chiado for your morning coffee, or visit Jardim do Príncipe Real on Saturday morning for the weekly market, to add unique touches to your new home.

2. Investing in Lisbon Real Estate

If you’re considering buying an apartment as an investment, Lisbon’s real estate market offers excellent potential. The city attracts tourists year-round, creating opportunities for both short- and mid-term rentals.

What to Expect:

• Property Types: From historic apartments with character to modern developments, Lisbon’s property market has something for everyone. Research areas carefully—neighborhoods like Baixa and Alfama are tourist hotspots, while others like Beato or Marvila are up-and-coming with trendy cafes and art galleries.

• Rental Opportunities: Demand for furnished apartments is high, especially for mid-term rentals of a few weeks to a year. Platforms like Idealista and Airbnb are great for advertising your property.

• Regulations: Be mindful of local laws regarding short-term rentals, as the city has imposed quite restrictive measures on new short-term licenses called AL (that you need for Airbnb).

• Personal Tip: Consider properties with outdoor spaces like balconies, terraces or patios—they’re very hard to find in the historic neighborhoods of Lisbon and highly sought after by both renters and buyers.

3. Retiring in Lisbon

Lisbon’s relaxed pace and warm community make it a fantastic place to enjoy retirement—either now or in a few years. Whether you prefer the city center or nearby seaside towns like Cascais, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.

What to Expect:

• Healthcare Access: Portugal offers high-quality healthcare, and public services are available to residents. Private health insurance is also an affordable option.

• Activities: From art galleries and music festivals to yoga classes and wine tasting, there’s no shortage of things to do. Join clubs or take up new hobbies like pottery or Fado singing to stay engaged.

• Residency: EU citizens can easily relocate, while non-EU citizens should explore options like the D7 Visa for retirees. This visa allows for long-term stays and access to public healthcare.

Personal Tip: Look into walking tours or cooking classes to learn more about Lisbon’s rich history and cuisine while getting to know like-minded people.

Apartment Buying in Lisbon: Step-by-Step Guide

To ensure a smooth experience, it’s crucial to understand the process you will be undergoing when you decide on buying an apartment in Lisbon. Here’s a breakdown of the key phases:

1. Property Search: Start by identifying your priorities—location, budget, property type, and intended use (living or renting/investing). The different neighborhoods of Lisbon, like Chiado, Príncipe Real, Lapa, Alfama or Alcântara, just to name a few, each offer a unique feel and lifestyle, so take enough time to explore them.

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Tip: Use platforms like Idealista or consult a local real estate company like Bleisured to find properties that match your criteria. Trial stays in different neighborhoods can also help you make an informed decision you feel comfortable with in the long run. Go on visits, visit an area by day and night, in short: make some experiences and get a feeling.

1. Hire Professionals: Engage a real estate agent, lawyer, and potentially a tax advisor. They’ll guide you through the process, from negotiating the purchase to handling legal documentation.

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Tip: A lawyer is essential for conducting due diligence, which includes verifying property ownership, ensuring there are no debts tied to the property, and checking for necessary licenses. This might seem a bit excessive in the first place, but it can save you a lot of headaches and potential risks down the line.

1. Financing: If you’re financing the purchase, finalize your mortgage with a Portuguese bank. The most common way to finding the best mortage in Portugal is through a mortgage broker. Reach out to one as soon as you start the property search process, they might be guiding you through important steps to have your financing ready by the time you want to make the purchase. Concurrently, the lawyer will perform final checks to confirm the property is ready for purchase.

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Costs to Expect when buying an apartment in Lisbon:

1. • Property taxes (IMT): 6-7% of the purchase price.
   • Stamp duty: 0.8%.
   • Notary and registration fees: Approximately €1,000-2,000.
   • Lawyer’s fees: Typically 1-2% of the purchase price.

1. Preliminary Agreement (CPCV): Once you’ve chosen a property, you’ll sign a “Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda” (CPCV), a preliminary purchasing contract. At this stage, you’ll typically pay a deposit of 10-20% of the purchase price. Most people may not be familiar with this type of contract in their home countries, but in Portugal, it is very common to have such a preliminary agreement—often considered even more important than the final purchase deed signed later at the notary.

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Tip: Ensure the CPCV outlines all agreed terms, including penalties if either party withdraws (usually the buyer forfeits the deposit, or the seller must return double the deposit). Having a lawyer review this contract is crucial to ensure all clauses protect your interests and that there are no ambiguities that could lead to disputes later.

1. Deed (Escritura): The final step is signing the deed at a notary office. Once completed, you’ll officially own the property.

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Tip: Be prepared to transfer the remaining balance and cover all associated fees on the day of signing.

How Bleisured Can Help You

Buying a property in a foreign country can feel a bit overwhelming in the beginning, but real estate companies like Bleisured are here to simplify the journey. Here’s how we at Bleisured make your experience smoother:

• Property Search Assistance: We help you identify the perfect neighborhood and property to fit your lifestyle or investment goals.

• Smooth Transactions: Our network of trusted professionals, from lawyers to mortgage brokers, ensures every step—from initial visits to signing the final deed—is stress-free.

• Hassle-Free Management and Maintenance: Whether setting up utilities, finding a tenant, or managing your property, we’re here to streamline the process.

By simplifying the details, Bleisured lets you focus on what matters most: enjoying life in Lisbon, without any headaches.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Move

If you’re planning on moving to Lisbon, there are a few key tips to help make your transition smoother and more enjoyable.

While many locals speak English, learning a bit of Portuguese can make a world of difference. Even knowing a few basics will help you connect with people and feel more at home.

You could start with apps like Duolingo or join a language school to make the process more social and engaging.

Bureaucracy in Portugal can be a challenge, so be prepared to handle paperwork, especially for visas or setting up utilities.

If you’re dealing with residency applications like the D7 or Golden Visa, consider hiring a professional to help—it’s worth the investment.

When it comes to choosing where to live, take the time to explore different neighborhoods, we can just say: each area has its own character.

Renting short-term in your first weeks can give you the flexibility to find the perfect fit.

Life in Lisbon moves at a slower, more relaxed pace, which can take some getting used to if you’re coming from a faster-paced environment. But that’s part of its charm. Embrace the chance to slow down—enjoy a coffee in the sun, explore the winding streets, or take in the views from a miradouro (viewpoint).

To meet people, look for local and expat groups through platforms like Meetup or Facebook.

Joining a walking tour, a pottery class, or a yoga group is a great way to socialize while trying something new. Lisbon has a thriving community of women from all over the world, and these activities can help you feel more connected.

Most importantly, be patient with yourself and stay flexible. Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming at times. But it’s also an opportunity to embrace something new.

Ready to Make the Leap?

Lisbon is more than just a place—it’s a lifestyle. For women over 50, it offers the perfect mix of adventure, opportunity, and comfortable life. Whether you’re investing, relocating, or retiring, buying an apartment here could be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make.

With so many details to consider when making a move, it helps to have the right support. From finding the ideal apartment to easing the transition into life in Portugal, there are resources available to make the process seamless. Embrace the journey with confidence, and let Lisbon inspire your next chapter.

Bleisured can support you in every step of the way. From finding your dream apartment to offering hassle-free rental options during your transition, we’ve got you covered. Reach out to us today to learn how we can help make your Lisbon dream a reality!

A note from 50 and Rising: Bleisured is our guest writer today. They offer short term rentals and help you buying your apartment in Lisbon. Their service will make your move to Lisbon easier and friendlier! You will need a friendly advisor when you become an investor or an expat o in Lisbon.