i.
Buying
Searching and shortlisting, property analysis, organised viewings, negotiation, and coordination with lawyers, banks and notaries.
Silver Coast · Portugal
Your home on the Silver Coast, found with care.
Personal guidance for international and local buyers and sellers on Portugal's Silver Coast. In English, Dutch, French and Portuguese.
Buyers & sellersHomes, land, new builds
EN · NL · FR · PTFour languages
Start to finishFrom first visit to escritura
About
International outlook, local knowledge.
I'm Virginie Verschaete. My international life started early, with an Erasmus exchange, and later I moved from Belgium to Portugal myself. So I know first-hand what it means to find a home in a new country. Today I guide buyers and sellers from Portugal, across Europe and further afield.
My background is in business economics: I hold a postgraduate master's in Business Economics from KU Leuven and a European master's in Sport Management. In Belgium I ran an exclusive wellness centre, where I learned what premium service really means. In 2017 I built my first house in Portugal, followed by three more, all run as holiday rentals (Alojamento Local). From that experience I moved into real estate. I look at every property through the eyes of an owner, a builder and an investor.
Whether it is a family home, a building plot or an exclusive villa, every client gets the same approach: honest advice, clear communication and someone who stays involved until the keys change hands.
I have always loved a challenge. I am driven and, admittedly, a perfectionist. I prepare every viewing carefully, follow every file closely and answer every question, because buying or selling a home leaves no room for half measures.
KU LeuvenBusiness economics
Since 2017Building and renting in Portugal
4 housesBuilt and run as holiday rentals
Virginie Verschaete
Services
How I can help
ii.
Selling
A price based on a thorough market analysis. I bring properties to market at a realistic value, because a correctly priced home attracts serious buyers and sells. Add to that a premium presentation with photography and video, and reach towards international buyers.
iii.
New builds & land
Off-plan apartments and villas and building plots, explained clearly so you know what you are buying before it is built.
The route
From first conversation to escritura.
Conversation
Your plans, budget and timing.
Search or valuation
A shortlist for buyers, market positioning for sellers.
Viewings
Organised, prepared and followed up.
CPCV
Negotiation and the promissory contract.
Escritura
Signing the deed and handing over the keys.
Buying from abroad
What international buyers ask me first.
General information to get you started. Every purchase is different, so always check your own situation with a lawyer.
Can I buy property in Portugal as a foreigner?
Yes. There are no general restrictions on foreigners buying property in Portugal. You will need a Portuguese tax number (NIF) before you sign.
How does the purchase work?
Usually in two steps: first the CPCV, a promissory contract with a deposit, then the escritura, the deed, signed before a notary or another authorised professional. The purchase taxes (IMT and stamp duty) are paid before the deed.
Do I need a lawyer?
It is not compulsory, but I always recommend an independent lawyer to check the property's documents and the contracts. I can introduce you to lawyers I work with.
Do I have to be in Portugal to buy?
Not necessarily. With a power of attorney (procuração), someone can sign on your behalf. Most buyers still like to visit before deciding, and I organise those viewings so your time here is well spent.
What does it cost on top of the price?
Mainly IMT (property transfer tax), stamp duty, deed and registration costs, and your lawyer. The amounts depend on the price, the type of property and your situation. I help you estimate them for a specific property.
Areas
Where I work
The Silver Coast, with a focus on these towns and the municipalities around them.
Alcobaça
Monastery town with a calm inland pace.
São Martinho do Porto
The shell-shaped bay with its calm water.
Foz do Arelho
Where the Óbidos lagoon meets the Atlantic.
Caldas da Rainha
The regional city: schools, hospital and the daily fruit market.
Óbidos
The walled medieval town and its countryside.
Bombarral
Vineyards, orchards and space.
Lourinhã
Atlantic beaches and dinosaur country.
Client stories
In the words of my clients.
For sale
Current properties
My up-to-date listings, with prices, photos and details, are on my professional listings page.
Looking for something that isn't listed? Tell me what you're searching for.
Contact
Let's talk about your plans.
Call or send a WhatsApp message. I reply in English, Dutch, French or Portuguese.