Why Foreign Investors in Lisbon Must Use a Credit Intermediary
For foreign investors, securing a mortgage in Portugal can be a complex and opaque process. However, new data from the Bank of Portugal reveals a critical tool for success: 56% of all mortgages are now secured via credit intermediaries. This is not a trend to ignore; it's a fundamental shift in how the market operates, and for an expat or foreign buyer, it's the key to a smoother, more profitable investment.
What Foreign Investors Need to KnowA credit intermediary is more than a broker; they are your advocate and translator in the Portuguese banking system. 'These professionals are essential for navigating a system not built for outsiders,' states a Lisbon-based financial consultant. 'They compare the entire market, from major banks to smaller lenders, to find the best possible terms—something an individual, especially a non-resident, simply cannot do efficiently.' In a market where a 0.1% difference in a spread can save you tens of thousands of euros, their service is a high-return investment in itself.
Actionable Steps for Today's Buyer- Engage an Intermediary Early: Start the conversation with a credit intermediary before you even make an offer. They can provide a clear picture of your borrowing capacity, allowing you to negotiate with confidence.
- Leverage Their Relationships: Intermediaries have established relationships with banks, which can lead to faster processing times and access to preferential terms not available to the general public.
- Demand Full Transparency: A good intermediary will provide a clear, comparative analysis of all costs, including spreads, insurance, and other associated fees, ensuring there are no hidden surprises in your financing.
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