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What you need to know to prepare for the rental process in Portugal. 

Here are the 10 key points you need to keep in mind during the Rental Search in Portugal.

                                          Navigating the Rental Market in Portugal

       Here are some key factors to consider when looking for a rental property in Portugal

1. Rental Rates are Increasing

When planning your budget, be prepared to have a range so that you are not priced out of the market. The Portuguese government has designated a "moderate" rent to be €2,300 per month.

2. Inventory is Low

  • Demand from immigrants looking for housing that fits a certain type of criteria is at an all-time high.
  • There is very little room for negotiations; landlords know the demand and are not negotiating as they have in previous times.

3. Changes to Request for Deposits and Length of Lease

  • We are seeing more and more requests for six months to a year's worth of deposits upfront to secure the rental.
  • If you have pets, additional deposits may be requested.
  • Minimum length of leases are changing, with 24 months being more common.

4. Treating Your Rental as Your "Forever Home"

  • Being prepared to compromise will be important.
  • Not everything on your wishlist will be available; it's important to be flexible.
  • If you don't find everything in your first property, it is easier to make a change after living in Portugal. Your needs and wants will change as you adapt to the new environment.

5. Bringing Pets, Especially Multiple Pets, Will Affect the Availability of Properties

  • Even when a property says "pet friendly," that doesn't mean they will accept multiple pets.
  • Certain breeds of dogs will limit the type of place that will accept you as a renter.
  • Yards and stand-alone houses are harder to find in urban areas and come with a price tag that reflects the location.

6. Walkability and What Does That Mean?

  • If you want a location that is entirely car-free, that will affect the price significantly.
  • Portugal is a country with hills; flat areas are harder to find in most major urban areas.
  • Only the major urban areas of Lisbon and Porto have subway, trains, buses, and integrated transportation options, and even in those cities, the subway does not cover the entire urban footprint.
  • Having a car will give you more opportunities for inventory.

7. I Must Have Heating and Cooling; Is That Possible?

It is a limiting factor for the search as not all properties in Portugal are fitted with A/C (AC in Portugal is typically heat and cooling. Central heating refers to radiators).

8. How About Elevators and Garages; Will They Be Available?

It is possible to find buildings with elevators and garages, but they are considered premium features and it will be reflected in the price.

9. I See "Cheap" Listings Online on Idealista or Other Sites All the Time; Why Can't I Rent These?

  • Idealista and other sites are great places to start to look, but they don't always reflect the reality of the market.
  • For the visa requirements (D7 or D8), you will need a 12-month legal and registered lease with signatures from the landlord and proof of deposit. Many of the listings on these sites are short-term or "under the table" and not registered.
  • These sites also have old listings that they don't keep updated, so often the property has been rented and is not available.

10. Can I Rent a "Throw Away" Property for the Visa and Then Do an Airbnb?

  • No, they are requiring recognized signatures from the landlords stating that you live at the property.
  • It will affect your mailing address and consideration for approval for the visa.