Cape Verde follows Portuguese law very closely. There is a Notary and registry system in place.

You will need to appoint a sworn translator to translate documentation for you.

A lawyer should always be appointed to check title deed and registration of property and to ensure your legal rights are protected at all times.

On finding a property you will put down a reservation fee or deposit this will usually be a around 10% of the purchase price although developers of off plans will have a different payment structure. Always ensure any deposits are refundable until you have secured any funding you require for completion. Mortgages and banks are few and far between in Cape Verde so be aware options will be limited using the property in Cape Verde for security. Interest rates are high in comparison to other jurisdictions.

Mortgages in principle can be obtained subject to property but a formal offer of lending can only be made after the property is known and evaluated by the bank. Banks rarely undertake formal valuations and will assess in general the property to be worth or below the purchase price being paid.

Costs of buying include

Stamp Duty 3 % of purchase price
Land registry 3% of purchase
Notary fees are usually a set price

Registry of loan and Notary fees 3% of lending
Mortgage deed tax 3% of lending
Bank arrangement fee