a local real estate consultant is able to immediately identify potential problems and issues with any apartment or building that may not be apparent to someone familiar with the city or the area - furthermore a consultant can help negotiate with local real estate agents or property owners.

 it could prove to be quite difficult navigating through the very complex net of bureaucracy and laws that are unique to rio - therefore, a real estate attorney would be absolutely necessary to check and explain all the documents related to an apartment before a deposit is made.   

this type of legal assistance is best found via the appropriate consulate, insuring that the attorney is legitimate and fluent both in portuguese and  in the investor's language.