Back to Portugal
đź’°

Property Costs in Lisbon

Detailed cost breakdown for buying and renovating property in Lisbon. Purchase costs, renovation estimates, and savings tips.

Updated Jan 22, 2026335 words

Overview

Investing in property in Lisbon, Portugal, offers opportunities for both residential and rental income. However, understanding the comprehensive cost breakdown is crucial for making informed decisions. This document outlines the various costs associated with purchasing and renovating property, as well as ongoing and hidden expenses that buyers should consider.

Purchase Costs

Cost TypePercentageDescription
Purchase Price100%The total price of the property as agreed upon in the purchase contract.
IMT (Property Transfer Tax)6.5%A progressive tax based on the purchase price, typically ranging from 0% to 6.5%. For properties above €92,407, the rate is 6.5%.
Stamp Duty0.8%A tax charged on the purchase of property, calculated as 0.8% of the purchase price.
Notary and Registration Fees1%Fees for the notary services and property registration, typically around 1% of the purchase price.
Legal Fees1%Cost of hiring a lawyer to assist with the purchase process, usually around 1% of the property price.

Renovation Costs (per m²)

light Renovation

€5 - €15

Minor renovations such as painting, minor repairs, and updating fixtures, estimated between €5,000 to €15,000.

medium Renovation

€15 - €30

Moderate renovations including kitchen and bathroom updates, estimated between €15,000 to €30,000.

deep Renovation

€30 - €100

Extensive renovations involving structural changes, major systems updates, and full remodels, estimated between €30,000 to €100,000.

Ongoing Costs

Cost TypeEstimateFrequencyDescription
Property Tax (IMI)0.3% to 0.8%AnnuallyAnnual tax based on the property's tax value.
Home Insurance300 to 600AnnuallyInsurance costs to protect the property against damages.
Utilities100 to 200MonthlyCosts for water, electricity, gas, and internet services.
Maintenance50 to 200MonthlyRegular upkeep and maintenance costs to keep the property in good condition.

⚠️ Hidden Costs to Watch For

  • Potential renovation surprises (unexpected repairs or code compliance issues).
  • Costs related to property management if renting out the property.
  • Market fluctuations that may affect property value post-purchase.
  • Fees for real estate agents if involved in the sale process.

đź’ˇ Money-Saving Tips

  • Consider buying a property in need of light renovations to lower purchase price.
  • Research government programs for first-time buyers that may offer tax reductions.
  • Negotiate with sellers on the price and terms to secure a better deal.
  • Utilize local contractors for renovations to minimize labor costs.

Conclusion

Understanding the cost breakdown of purchasing and renovating property in Lisbon is essential for potential investors. By considering all purchase, renovation, ongoing, and hidden costs, as well as applying saving tips, buyers can make informed decisions and maximize their investment potential.