Bank-owned properties
Banks end up owning properties when a loan is not repaid, through a deed in lieu or an award in court proceedings. They then sell them on their own portals, through auction houses or in campaigns, and each bank publishes in its own way.
Reviewed on 4 November 2026. Scope: Portugal, with notes on Brazil.
How they reach the market
- On the banks’ own property portals, at a fixed price or open to offers.
- At auctions organised by auction houses on the bank’s behalf.
- In portfolios sold to funds and asset managers, which then resell the properties.
What to confirm before buying
- The price against the local market. An advertised discount is not, on its own, a good deal.
- The condition of the property. Sales are generally as is.
- Occupation and paperwork, including the land registry certificate and the occupancy licence.
- Financing conditions, which some banks offer for their own properties.
How Rivesta helps
Rivesta puts bank-owned properties in the same search as auctions and court sales, with the same analysis: a market value reference for the area, risk indicators and a simulation of costs and margin. It flags price changes and properties that are listed again, and alerts tell you when a property matching your criteria appears.
In Brazil, Rivesta also follows properties sold by banks, including those repossessed under fiduciary lien.
Frequently asked questions
- Are bank-owned properties cheaper?
- Not always. Some sell below market value, others at market price or above. Comparing with price per square metre references in the same area is what tells you.
- Can I get a mortgage for a bank-owned property?
- The selling bank often offers its own financing conditions. They depend on each bank and each property, and should be confirmed directly with the bank.