Madeira Property Market and Real Estate Guide

(Madeira, Portugal)

A stunning archipelago made up of two inhabited islands and dozens of smaller unpopulated islands, Madeira offers an inviting climate, breathtaking scenery and a burgeoning property market, making it rank amongst Europe's most interesting property destinations.

Blessed with year-round sunshine, Madeira has blossomed into one of Portugal's most popular holiday destinations in recent years, and there are a large number of properties available to buy and rent here, most of which are situated along the coast of the main island, Madeira.


Although many of these properties have previously been reserved for timeshare options, Madeira's popularity means that apartments have often been well used and should be inspected carefully by potential buyers and renters.

A large number of newly built properties are coming on the market, and these make excellent options, especially in the mid-range category. Some of the most popular areas of Madeira in which to buy and rent property include Funchal, Santa Cruz, Ribeira Brava and Camara do Lobos.

Renting Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments are available all over Madeira, especially in popular resort areas, where they were previously rented out as timeshare apartments. Of note, serviced apartments are particularly popular in the city of Funchal, as well as in Santa Cruz. While many of these serviced apartments are starting to show their age, there are also a good range of modern studios available.

Many of the serviced apartments in Madeira come fully furnished, complete with stunning ocean views, as well as a wide range of modern conveniences such as air conditioning, kitchen and en suite bathroom. Many serviced apartments also come with communal gardens and even a swimming pool. A deposit is usually required by long-stay guests.

Buying Apartments and Houses

It is important to note that while Madeira conforms to the Portuguese laws and language, the islanders have their own way of doing things and property negotiations often take time to complete. The purchaser is obliged to pay a property transfer tax, which is around five percent of the original purchase price.

A notary must be enlisted to prepare the public deed, and fees for this service should cost no more than two percent of the purchase price. The notary will also register the purchase with the appropriate land registry department, which will cost an additional fee.

Real Estate Agents

When searching for a property to buy or rent in Madeira, it is essential to enlist the services of a reliable real estate agent. It is a good idea to pick an agent with good spoken English abilities, and clients should take the time to read customer reviews and browse the company website.

Below are details of some of Madeira's top real estate agents:

Madeira Property Center
Address: Troutbeck Strang Road, Union Mills, Isle of Man, IM4 4NP, British Isles
Tel: +44 01624 852 960
Email: tony@madeiraproperties.org
Website: www.madeirapropertycentre.com
This modern company specialises in the resale of properties in the southwest of Madeira.

Madeira Properties in the Sun
Address: Rua da Carreira 167, Funchal, 9000-042, Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, PT
Tel: +351 096 186 7819
Website: www.propertiesinmadeira.com
Madeira Properties in the Sun offers a wide selection of properties to buy and rent all over the main island.

Madeira Plus Property
Address: Rua Sao Francisco, 3 - 1C, 9000-050, Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, PT
Tel: +351 0291 282 180
Email: info@madeiraplus.com
Website: www.madeiraplus.com
Offering some 20 years of expertise in the field of buying and selling properties on the island, Madeira Property Plus provides English-speaking agents.