Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions about Soverite and buying property in Portugal
Factual answers to the most common questions about our role as exclusive buyer-side advisor, the fee structure (€1,987 + VAT retainer · 20% of saving · 1.5% minimum · 5% cap), and the acquisition process in Portugal — from first contact to the notarial deed.
How is Soverite different from a traditional estate agent?
Soverite is not a real estate agency. While traditional agencies in Portugal are legally and financially tied to the seller — paid by them and legally obligated to facilitate the close of the transaction — Soverite acts exclusively as the buyer's advisor and representative, under a signed mandate. We hold no listings, receive no remuneration from the seller's side, and our sole objective is to protect your interests: identifying hidden risks, negotiating the best possible price, and independently managing all technical and legal due diligence from first assessment to the final deed. We are your private advisor against the transaction.
How is Soverite Paid?
Simple, transparent, and aligned with your success. You pay a €1,987 + VAT activation retainer at mandate signing (100% credited back at the notarial deed). We then take 20% + VAT of the saving we negotiate for you. If we don't negotiate any saving, you pay only the 1.5% + VAT minimum. Your total fee is capped at 5% + VAT of the final acquisition price. We only win when you win. You keep the larger part of the saving we negotiate. And if we cannot reduce the price, our fee stays at the minimum.
Do you sell properties or represent developers?
No. We have no listings and accept no commissions or referral fees from developers, agencies, or sellers. Our only source of revenue is the fees paid directly by you, the buyer. This structural independence is the foundation of everything we do.
How does the mandate work?
Soverite operates under a single integrated mandate structured across three stages: Stage 1 (Property Intelligence Review), Stage 2 (Targeted Property Assessment), and Stage 3 (Full Acquisition Execution). Each stage builds on the previous one within the same mandate. There is no need to sign a new agreement at each stage — the mandate governs the full journey from first analysis to final deed.
What if no saving is negotiated?
If we don't negotiate any saving, your fee is simply the 1.5% minimum on the final acquisition price. There is a single advisory fee — not two — and it flexes between this 1.5% floor and the 5% cap. The €1,987 retainer is always credited in full against the final fee.
When are fees paid?
The €1,987 + VAT activation retainer is paid upfront when the mandate is initiated. The remaining advisory fee is staged: a significant portion at CPCV (Contrato Promessa de Compra e Venda — the binding promissory contract signed before the final deed), the balance at the final deed signing when ownership transfers. The retainer is credited in full against the total at final deed.
Is the retainer refundable?
The retainer is fully credited against the advisory fee when the acquisition completes at the final deed signing. It is also refundable in full if Soverite is unable to fulfil the objectives defined contractually.
Can I use Soverite if I have already found a property?
Yes. Many clients approach us after identifying a specific property. Depending on how much analysis has already been done, you would typically enter at Stage 1 for an independent desk review, or directly at Stage 2 for on-site validation and negotiation strategy. We will advise which entry point is appropriate during your alignment call.
Do you replace my lawyer?
No. Your lawyer remains essential and handles all formal legal work including contract review and the final deed. What we do is different — we manage the strategy, the negotiation, and the coordination so that your legal counsel can focus on what they do best. The two roles are complementary, not competing.
Can you manage the process if I am based outside Portugal?
Yes. A significant portion of our clients are international buyers managing the entire acquisition remotely. We act as your on-the-ground proxy — conducting site visits, coordinating legal and technical teams, attending meetings, and reporting at every stage. The mandate timeline is the same whether you are present or remote.
In which regions of Portugal do you operate?
We primarily operate across Greater Lisbon including Cascais, Estoril and Sintra, the Algarve, and Porto and the Douro Valley. For acquisitions above €1M we evaluate mandates nationwide, including the Silver Coast and Comporta.
How long does the full process typically take?
Under normal conditions with no major complications, most mandates progress from first assessment to final deed in 4 to 6 weeks. Financed acquisitions or those involving legal irregularities naturally take longer. We will give you a realistic expectation during your alignment call based on your specific circumstances.
Can Soverite help with Golden Visa, NHR, or D7 Visa property acquisitions?
Yes. We work regularly with international buyers pursuing property acquisitions connected to Golden Visa-eligible investments, Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax status, D7 Passive Income Visa residency, and digital nomad visas. Our mandate covers the property side of the acquisition — independent valuation, legal title review, and negotiation. We coordinate with your immigration lawyer and tax advisor as required. Our role is always the property side — independent valuation, title review, and negotiation on your behalf. If your sole objective is qualifying for a programme and price is not a priority, a dedicated immigration-investment firm is the better fit. We are for buyers who want both a visa-eligible property and a hard-negotiated price.
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