Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions about Soverite and buying property in Portugal
Factual answers to the most common questions about Soverite's role as your buyer's agent and the acquisition process in Portugal — from first contact to the notarial deed.
What is a buyer's agent and how does it differ from an estate agency?
Soverite works for you as the buyer's agent under a signed mandate. We hold no listings and have nothing of our own to sell — our only interest in any property is whether it fits you. How we are compensated is agreed with you and set out in writing before any mandate begins.
How is Soverite different from a traditional estate agent?
Soverite is not a real estate agency. While traditional agencies in Portugal are legally tied to the seller — obligated by their mediation contract to facilitate the close of the transaction, usually of their own listings — Soverite acts as the buyer's agent under a signed mandate. We hold no listings of our own, 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.
Do you sell properties or represent developers?
No. We hold no listings and have no relationships with developers or agencies that could steer what we show you. Nothing in our business depends on moving a particular property — that 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 Validation), 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.
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?
If your only goal is the visa, an immigration-investment firm is the better fit. If you also want the price negotiated, that is our side. We coordinate with your immigration lawyer and tax adviser; our role is the property.
Do I have to pay Soverite directly?
Not necessarily. Under the Independent Mandate you pay us directly and our fee rises with the saving we negotiate. Under Assisted Purchase our fee is fixed at signing and paid out of the listing agency's commission. Both are set out in writing before you sign, and in both cases we hold no listings — our only interest in any property is whether it fits you.
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