Braga, often referred to as the “Rome of Portugal” due to its numerous churches, has become an increasingly popular destination for expats and property buyers. This charming city in northern Portugal offers a unique blend of historical richness, modern amenities, and a more relaxed pace of life compared to larger cities like Porto or Lisbon.
Braga has received numerous awards for its quality of life, making it an attractive alternative for those who find Porto too expensive or touristy. While it’s a smaller city, it doesn’t compromise on culture, education, or lifestyle options. The presence of a well-regarded university adds a youthful energy to the city, while its historical attractions provide a constant reminder of its rich past.
Search properties for sale in Braga
Location and Accessibility
Braga’s location is one of its strongest selling points. Situated in the heart of the Minho region, it offers:
- Beaches: Just 30 minutes to the west
- Gerês Mountains: A mere 15 minutes to the east, offering spectacular natural beauty
- Spain: 40 minutes to the north, perfect for day trips or weekend getaways
The city is well-connected by road and rail to other major Portuguese cities, including Porto, which is about an hour away.
Character and Atmosphere
Despite its growing popularity with tourists and expats, Braga maintains a distinctly Portuguese feel. The city is known for:
- Its numerous churches and religious festivals.
- Excellent food, including the famous francesinha (which some argue is even better here than in Porto).
- A vibrant university culture.
- Low traffic compared to larger cities like Porto and Lisbon.
- Low crime rates.
- Friendly and helpful locals, with younger people often able to speak English.
Living in Braga
Cost of Living: While generally more affordable than Porto or Lisbon, Braga’s increasing desirability has led to rising property prices. Restaurant prices, while lower than in the UK or US, are considered high by Portuguese standards.
Weather: Braga experiences cooler, damper winters compared to southern Portugal. This climate can be appealing to those who find the Algarve too hot, but it’s important to consider heating and insulation when looking at properties, especially older ones.
Education: Braga has one international school, making it an option for expat families with children who want a more international education focus. It also has several public and private schools to choose from.
Property Market
Braga’s property market offers a range of options, from historical buildings in the city center to modern apartments and houses in the suburbs. Key considerations include:
- City Center: Older properties with character, but potentially requiring renovation and better insulation
- Suburbs: Newer properties, often better insulated and with modern amenities
- Investment Potential: Consider long-term rentals, holiday lets, or student accommodation
Neighbourhoods
- Gualtar: Home to the University of Minho campus, popular with students and young professionals
- Trofa: A separate municipality near Braga, offering a more suburban feel with good connections to the city
- Bom Jesus: An upscale area known for its famous sanctuary and beautiful views
- Sé: The historic heart of the city, filled with cultural attractions and traditional architecture
- Nogueira: A growing residential area with a mix of new developments and older properties
Buying Process
The process of buying property in Braga follows the standard procedures for Portugal:
- Property Search: Search properties for sale in Braga at Portugalist.com/property
- Attend viewings: It is highly advisable that you view any property you’re interested in at least once, if not several times.
- Make an Offer: Once you’ve found a property you like, submit an offer.
- Promissory Contract: If your offer is accepted, you’ll sign a promissory contract (or CPCV) and pay a deposit, typically 10-30% of the purchase price.
- Final Deed: On the agreed date, you’ll sign the final deed of sale (or Escritura) before a notary, pay the remaining balance, and receive the keys to your new property.
It’s highly recommended to work with a local lawyer throughout the process.
It may also be a good idea to work with a buyer’s agent. In Portugal, a buyer’s agent is simply an estate agent who works on your side when buying. Their job is to attend viewings with you, determine if the price is fair, and to analyse the paperwork for any discrepancies. Unlike other countries, the term buyer’s agent isn’t a protected term and so any estate agent could work as a buyer’s agent. However, there are some realtors who specialise in working on the side of the buyer in Portugal, and may have a better understanding of what the task involves.
Investment Considerations
When buying property in Braga as an investment, consider:
- Long-term rentals: Given the city’s growing population with locals and expats,
- Student accommodation: Given the sizeable university population, there is a demand for student accommodation. However, rental yields will be much lower.
- Holiday rentals: While not as busy as Porto, Braga does attract an increasing number of tourists. However, it’s important to be aware of changes to AL licensing laws.
Remember to factor in potential renovation costs, especially for older properties that may need insulation or heating improvements.
Conclusion
Braga offers a compelling proposition for property buyers seeking a blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and a high quality of life. Its strategic location, rich culture, and growing expat community make it an attractive alternative to larger Portuguese cities. Whether you’re looking for a permanent home, a holiday property, or an investment opportunity, Braga’s diverse property market and improving infrastructure make it a city worth considering.
As with any property purchase, it’s crucial to do thorough research, work with trusted professionals, and carefully consider your long-term plans. But for those drawn to Braga’s unique combination of history, culture, and lifestyle, this charming city in northern Portugal could be the perfect place to call home.