Top Real Estate Appraisers to Ensure Your Property's True Value

A professional appraisal estimates a property’s market value using evidence such as recent comparable sales, rental yields and a physical inspection. In Lisbon, the report typically outlines methodology, assumptions and photos. For expats, it provides an independent benchmark for negotiations, mortgages and tax planning in an unfamiliar market.

For standard apartments, expect typical fees of around €300–€600; complex, luxury or commercial assets can range from €700 to €2,000+ depending on scope. Urgent turnarounds and RICS-compliant reports may cost more. Prices are set by each provider, and you arrange payment directly with them.

Most residential appraisals take 3–7 working days from inspection to report, while bank or complex cases can take 1–2 weeks. The process typically covers property visit, document review, comparable market analysis and valuation rationale. Reports are usually delivered as PDFs, often available in Portuguese and English.

Commonly requested items include the land registry extract and tax card (certidão de registo predial and caderneta predial), floor plans, habitation licence, ID, and details of renovations. For rentals, provide tenancy contracts and income statements. Having these ready speeds scheduling, supports assumptions, and helps avoid follow‑up queries.

Portuguese lenders typically appoint valuers from their own approved panels for mortgage purposes, so an independent report may not be accepted for underwriting. However, it can still guide your offer and due diligence. Confirm your bank’s policy before commissioning any valuation intended for financing.

RICS-qualified valuers provide Red Book reports often preferred by international lenders, corporate buyers and cross‑border audits. For typical local purchases, sales and personal decisions, experienced Lisbon-based valuers following Portuguese standards are usually sufficient. Ask your lender, lawyer or accountant which standard they require before instructing.

An estate agent’s valuation is a marketing opinion to set an asking price, often influenced by current listings and sales strategy. A certified appraisal is an independent, evidence‑based report with methodology, comparables and assumptions. It’s designed for informed decisions, legal uses and, where applicable, mortgage assessments.

Yes, desktop valuations use market data and documents without a full inspection, offering quicker turnaround and lower cost. They suit early stage budgeting, pre‑offer checks and straightforward apartments. For mortgages, legal disputes or complex, refurbished or luxury assets, a full on‑site appraisal is usually required.

Check relevant professional memberships, years of local experience and recent assignments in your neighbourhood and property type. Ask for a sample report, confirm the valuation basis and methodology, and read independent reviews. Ensure they communicate clearly in your language and provide transparent timelines and deliverables.

Yes, appraisals can support inheritance divisions, divorce settlements and dispute resolution by providing an independent market value, often at a specific valuation date. Note that Portuguese tax uses the VPT system, which differs from market value. Always confirm formal requirements with your solicitor or accountant before commissioning.