How to Choose Between Buying Property as an Individual or a Company

One of the first decisions property investors face is whether to buy real estate as a private individual or through a company structure. The choice affects taxes, liability, inheritance, and even financing options. In global markets such as London, Dubai, Portugal, or Cyprus, the right ownership model can make a significant difference to your returns and long-term strategy.

Why the ownership structure matters

Your ownership model determines:

• How much tax you pay on rental income and capital gains.
  
  
• The ease of transferring property to family or heirs.
  
  
• Your liability in case of disputes or debts.
  
  
• Access to financing and investor protections.
  

Choosing wisely ensures you balance cost efficiency, legal security, and investment flexibility.

Buying property as an individual

Advantages:

• Simpler process with fewer legal and administrative steps.
  
  
• Lower upfront costs (no company formation or ongoing filings).
  
  
• Direct ownership and easier personal use of the property.
  

Disadvantages:

• Higher personal tax liability in some countries.
  
  
• Limited protection of personal assets in case of disputes.
  
  
• Less flexibility for portfolio growth and inheritance planning.
  

Buying property through a company

Advantages:

• Tax optimisation — in some countries, corporate ownership reduces taxes.
  
  
• Liability protection — separates personal assets from investment risks.
  
  
• Easier inheritance and succession planning.
  
  
• More attractive for scaling large portfolios.
  

Disadvantages:

• Higher setup and maintenance costs (accounting, compliance, legal).
  
  
• Not always available to foreign investors in every jurisdiction.
  
  
• Some countries impose corporate taxes on property profits.
  

Country examples

• UK: Companies can reduce inheritance tax and optimise Stamp Duty, but annual filing costs apply.
  
  
• Dubai: Foreigners often purchase directly, but company ownership is used for large portfolios or commercial real estate.
  
  
• Portugal: Individual ownership is common; company setups may be useful for high-value portfolios.
  
  
• Cyprus: Company structures are attractive for tax and inheritance purposes.
  

Who should use which option?

• Individuals – First-time buyers, lifestyle purchasers, or investors with 1–2 properties.
  
  
• Companies – Experienced investors, portfolio managers, or those seeking tax and inheritance efficiency.
  

Benefits of making the right choice

• Lower taxes and maximised ROI.
  
  
• Reduced legal and financial risks.
  
  
• Easier long-term planning for heirs and family.
  
  
• Greater flexibility for expansion.

Why choose Imperia Broker?

At Imperia Broker, we advise clients on the best ownership model for their goals. With expertise across London, Dubai, Turkey, Portugal, Cyprus, and Thailand, we help you evaluate whether to buy as an individual or through a company — with full clarity on taxes, compliance, and strategy.

Get Started Today

Wondering which ownership model is right for your property purchase?

Book a consultation with Imperia Broker and get tailored advice for your investment journey.