Buying in Algarve: what overseas buyers should know
The Algarve is southern Portugal's best known destination for overseas buyers, with a long-established British community drawn to its beaches, golf and reliable climate. Buyers here range from families and remote workers to those seeking a holiday home or planning a move for retirement. Property spans coastal apartments, townhouses in historic towns, golf resort residences and inland villas with land, so there is choice across the region for most ways of living.
What buyers are looking for in Algarve
The region divides loosely into the western Algarve, with its coastline and smaller villages, and the central Algarve, home to major beach resorts and Faro, the region's main airport. Demand is strongest close to the coast and around established golf areas, while inland villages offer more space and quiet for those happy to be a short drive from the sea. Well-connected towns with good year-round amenities tend to hold their appeal for both owners and those who let their property when away.
Buying as an overseas buyer
UK citizens can own property in Portugal freely and will need an NIF (a Portuguese tax number). You can spend up to 90 days in any 180-day period in the Schengen area without a visa, and D7 or digital nomad visas exist for those wanting to stay longer; buying property no longer qualifies for the Golden Visa. A lawyer runs the checks and completion takes place before a notary. The main costs on top of the price are the property transfer tax (IMT), stamp duty and the annual property tax (IMI), and Portuguese banks lend to non-residents, usually with a larger deposit. This is a brief overview, so take current advice for your circumstances. Start your search to see property for sale in Algarve, or contact our team to be connected with a local partner agent.
Where to find property for sale in Algarve
In the western Algarve, Lagos is a well-served historic town with a marina and beaches nearby, while smaller coastal spots such as Praia da Luz, Burgau and Budens suit buyers wanting villages within reach of the sea. Inland, Bensafrim offers villas with land and a quieter pace a short drive from Lagos. In the central Algarve, Albufeira is known for its beaches and resort living, and Faro combines a working city with the region's main international airport.
Property types run from coastal apartments and townhouses to golf resort homes and inland villas, so the right area depends on how close to the coast you want to be and whether you value amenities, space or ease of access. Explore our collections to shortlist by the way you want to live.
