Nestled in the Lisbon District of Portugal, Alcabideche is a picturesque town with a rich historical background dating back to Roman times. The town boasts numerous historical sites, including the Roman aqueducts and traditional Portuguese architecture. Geographically, Alcabideche is strategically located near the Sintra Mountains, providing stunning natural landscapes and a serene environment. Its proximity to the bustling city of Cascais and the Atlantic Ocean makes it a desirable location for luxury living.
Current Property Market in Alcabideche
The exclusive property market in Alcabideche is currently strong, with high demand for luxury homes and apartments. This demand often surpasses the available supply, making the market highly competitive. The political and economic situation in Alcabideche is stable, contributing to its attractiveness for high-end property investments.
Costs and Taxes for Buying Luxury Property
When purchasing a luxury home in Alcabideche, buyers typically pay a real estate commission averaging around 6%. Sellers pay a similar commission rate. Additional costs include transfer tax, which stands at 6.5% on private property, as well as notary fees, possible construction inspection costs, and legal expenses. For wealth tax, private homeowners need to consider their financial standing as it pertains to Portugal's property tax regulations. Capital gains tax applies when selling a second or vacation home, while primary residences have specific exemptions.
Mortgage Requirements and Financial Regulations
Prospective buyers should be prepared for mortgage requirements that typically involve a ratio of 20-30% own capital and 70-80% borrowed capital. The maximum mortgage obtainable can vary, but it's common to secure up to 80% of the property's purchase price, contingent on income verification and creditworthiness.
Exclusive Residential Areas
Alcabideche is home to some of the most sought-after residential areas, including Bairro de São Vicente and Quinta da Marinha. These neighborhoods are renowned for their luxurious estates, scenic views, and top-tier amenities.
Accessibility and Connectivity
Alcabideche is well-connected by road and rail, with excellent accessibility to Lisbon via the A5 motorway. The town is approximately 25 kilometers from the nearest big city, Lisbon. The closest international airport, Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon, is around a 30-minute drive away, making it convenient for international travel.
Education Institutions
The vicinity of Alcabideche offers prominent educational institutions such as Carlucci American International School of Lisbon and the St. Julian's School, providing top-quality education.
Climate and Natural Environment
Alcabideche benefits from a mild Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The surrounding environment features lush greenery, the picturesque Sintra Mountains, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, offering a harmonious blend of nature.
Sports and Outdoor Activities
Residents of Alcabideche can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities, including golf at the Quinta da Marinha Golf Course, horseback riding, hiking in the Sintra Mountains, and numerous water sports along the coast.
Luxury Lifestyle and Shopping
Alcabideche offers a sophisticated lifestyle with luxury shops, high-end boutiques, and gourmet markets. For dining, the town features famous fine-dining restaurants like Fortaleza do Guincho.
Cultural and Social Events
Annual events such as the Cascais Jazz Festival and the Equestrian Events at Hipódromo Manuel Possolo are integral parts of the local cultural fabric. Museums and galleries like the Paula Rego House of Stories and the Cascais Cultural Center are located nearby.
Healthcare Facilities
Alcabideche is supported by excellent healthcare infrastructure, including the CUF Cascais Hospital and Clinica Dr. Augusto Carlos Pimenta.
Public Infrastructure and Amenities
The public infrastructure in Alcabideche is robust, with well-maintained roads, efficient public transport services, and essential amenities such as shopping centers, recreational parks, and numerous dining options, ensuring a high quality of life for its residents.