Buying property in Brazil as a foreigner is straightforward when the steps are followed in the right order. This is how a purchase in South Bahia usually works, from agreeing the price to registering the deed in your name.
1. Offer and reservation
Once the price and payment terms are agreed, you can sign a reservation agreement with a relatively small deposit, refundable under agreed conditions, or go straight to the purchase agreement.
2. Due diligence
Before signing the purchase agreement, a lawyer should check the property: that the land and buildings are properly registered, that there are no liens, debts or legal claims, that building and planning rules have been followed, how the land is classified (urban or rural), and whether any part of it is federal coastal land (terreno de marinha). We can introduce two or three local lawyers we know to be reliable, or you can choose your own.
3. Purchase agreement
When your lawyer confirms there are no serious risks, buyer and seller sign the purchase agreement (compromisso de compra e venda), which binds both sides to complete. A non-refundable deposit is usually paid at signing, typically 10–25% of the price, although the law sets no fixed amount.
4. Transfer tax and deed
Depending on the type of property and the paperwork it needs, it usually takes three weeks to two months to reach the deed (escritura pública). Before it is signed, the buyer pays the municipal transfer tax (ITBI) and the notary’s fees. The deed is signed at a notary’s office (cartório) by both parties or their representatives; the balance is paid and the keys are handed over.
5. Registration
In Brazil, ownership passes only when the deed is registered at the property registry (Cartório de Registro de Imóveis), which for most of our area is in Porto Seguro. The registry must register the deed, or list any requirements, within 10 days of filing (5 days for a straightforward purchase deed).
For buying costs and taxes, see Expenses & requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners buy property in Brazil?
Yes. Foreign buyers have the same rights as Brazilians to buy houses, apartments and urban plots, and you do not need to live in Brazil. Rural land is different: non-residents generally cannot buy it, and residents face size limits. Your lawyer confirms how a property is classified during due diligence.
Do I need a Brazilian tax number (CPF)?
Yes, every buyer needs one. A CPF is free. From abroad you apply through a Brazilian consulate, or a representative in Brazil can apply for you. We help with this.
Do I need to be in Brazil to buy?
No. You can sign through a representative with a public power of attorney, made at a Brazilian consulate, or at a notary abroad with an apostille and a sworn translation. Many of our clients come for the viewings and sign the deed remotely.
How long does a purchase take?
Usually three weeks to two months from the purchase agreement to the deed, depending on the property and its paperwork. Registration follows within days of filing.
Can buying property give me residence in Brazil?
Yes. Brazil grants residence to foreigners who invest at least R$700,000 in property in the North and Northeast regions, which include Bahia (R$1,000,000 elsewhere). Residence is granted for four years and can then become indefinite if you keep the property, provided you spend at least 14 days in Brazil every two years. A lawyer handles the application.
Do I need a lawyer?
It is not a legal requirement, but we always recommend one for the due diligence and the contracts. Legal fees are typically 1–3% of the price.
For guidance only, as of October 2026. Your lawyer will confirm the details for your purchase.
Ready to take the next step?
We guide you from sourcing and negotiation to closing and after-sales, and can introduce trusted local lawyers.