Pedro Tabuada · Advogado

Notes for international buyers

Buying an Apartment? Meet the Condomínio

· Pedro Tabuada, Lawyer

If you are buying a property in a building or a private resort in the Algarve, you become part of the "Condomínio" (Homeowners Association). This comes with rules and costs.

CONDOMINIUM FEES: You must pay a monthly or quarterly fee to cover shared costs like elevators, pool maintenance, cleaning, and building insurance. Tip: Always ask for the last meeting minutes (Atas) BEFORE you buy. This reveals if the building has debts or if expensive repairs (like painting the façade) are planned soon.

THE RULES: Can you have pets? Can you do short-term rentals (Alojamento Local)? Can you glaze the balcony? These rules are in the "Regulamento do Condomínio". Never assume you can do whatever you want just because you own the apartment.

OUR CHECK: We request a "Declaration of No Debt" from the Condominium Administrator to ensure the previous owner doesn't leave you with unpaid bills.

Written on the date shown. The law and tax figures may have changed since. This article is general information, not advice on your particular case. For questions: info@pedrotabuada.com · +351 923 337 076.

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