To execute a deed for an urban property in Portugal, it is necessary to gather a series of documents that prove the legality and legitimacy of the transaction. The deed is the document that formalizes the transfer of ownership between the seller and the buyer. Below are listed the essential documents for this process:
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Identification Documents:
Citizen card or identity card and tax card of the parties involved (buyer and seller)
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Purchase and Sale Promise Contract:
This contract must have been signed prior to the deed and is optional.
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Property Certificate (or Permanent Property Registration Certificate):
Document that proves the property registration and its descriptions and registrations in force. Can be obtained at the property registration office.
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Urban Property Tax Card:
Document issued by the Tax and Customs Authority that describes the property’s tax situation.
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Use License:
Required for properties built after August 7, 1951. Must be requested from municipal services. Although it is no longer a mandatory document today, it is always recommended to request it, or request a certificate of exemption from it.
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Housing Technical Sheet:
Mandatory for properties licensed from March 31, 2004. Although it is no longer a mandatory document today, it is always recommended to request it, for the buyer’s benefit, as it contains relevant information about the property, such as materials used, location of plumbing, electricity, and others.
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Energy Certificate:
Document that assesses the property’s energy efficiency.
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Infrastructure Certificate:
Required if the property has a subdivision permit registered since 1992 and it is the first transfer.
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IMT (Municipal Tax on Onerous Property Transfers) and Stamp Tax Settlement:
Proof of payment of these taxes or documents proving exemption, if applicable.
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Other Documents:
In some cases, it may be necessary to present the Toponymic Certificate (if the address is non-conforming), declaration of condominium charges, or mortgage discharge, depending on the specific characteristics of the property and the transaction.
Make sure all documents are valid and up to date before executing the deed. The absence of any document may delay or prevent the completion of the process. In addition, it is important to have the support of professionals, such as lawyers or real estate agents, to ensure that all legal requirements are met.