What is the CPCV (Promissory Contract of Purchase and Sale)?
The CPCV is a legally binding contract between the buyer and the seller, in which both parties commit to completing the transaction under the agreed terms.

What does the CPCV include?
  • Identification of the parties;
  • Description of the property;
  • Price;
  • Deadline for the deed;
  • Down payment (usually between 10% and 30%);
  • Specific conditions.

What happens in the event of non-compliance?
  • If the buyer withdraws: they lose the down payment;
  • If the seller withdraws: they have to return double the down payment.

What is a deed?
The public Deed marks the completion of the purchase, ensuring the official transfer of the property to the buyer, who then becomes the new owner.

What happens at the deed?
  • Payment of the remaining amount;
  • Signature in the presence of a notary
  • Registration of the property in the name of the new owner.

After the deed, the buyer becomes the legal owner of the property.

Main difference between the CPCV and the Deed
The CPCV formalises the agreement between the parties, while the Deed completes the purchase and transfers ownership of the property to the buyer.

Which stage is the most important?
Both are essential, but they serve different purposes:
  • The CPCV provides legal security before the purchase;
  • The deed completes the transaction and transfers ownership.

Without a CPCV, the transaction can proceed directly to the deed, however, this is less common and involves higher risk for both parties.

Advice for buying your home safely:
  • Read the CPCV carefully before signing;
  • Confirm all deadlines and conditions;
  • Ensure that the property is in order legally;
  • Use a real estate agent with legal support.

If you are thinking of buying or selling a property in Portugal, Homaze supports its clients at every stage and provides legal assistance that ensures a simple, secure and transparent process.

Contact us and benefit from comprehensive support with specialist guidance.
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