Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Guatemala Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Antigua's property market is included in our pack
What will happen in Antigua’s real estate market? Will prices rise or fall? Is Antigua still a prime location for foreign investors? How are local government policies and taxes shaping the real estate landscape in 2025?
We’re frequently asked these questions because of our deep involvement in this market. Through our collaborations with notaries, real estate agents, and clients purchasing properties in Antigua, we’ve gathered firsthand insights.
That’s why we crafted this article: to deliver clear answers, insightful analysis, and a comprehensive perspective on market predictions and forecasts.
Our aim is straightforward: to ensure you feel informed and confident about the market without needing to look elsewhere. If you think we missed the mark or could do better, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to message us with your feedback or comments, and we’ll work hard to improve this content for you.
How this content was created 🔎📝
1) Antigua’s home prices will rise gradually as tourism boosts the local economy
Antigua's tourism sector is booming, with a 15% increase in overnight visitors in early 2024 compared to the previous year.
This surge is a big win for local businesses and has sparked a growing interest in real estate, especially in popular areas. Tourism is the backbone of Antigua's economy, making up over 60% of the national income, which in turn supports the real estate market's growth.
The Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is also drawing attention, with a 205% rise in applications in the first half of 2024. This shows a strong interest in real estate investments, often leading to higher demand and prices.
Hotels and restaurants are thriving thanks to the tourism boom, which is driving up demand for residential properties. Antigua's growing reputation as a tourist hotspot, highlighted by media coverage, makes it even more attractive to buyers and investors.
New tourist attractions and infrastructure developments are on the rise, promising to draw even more visitors. This ongoing growth in tourism is likely to keep boosting the real estate market.
As tourism continues to flourish, the residential real estate market in Antigua is expected to see a gradual price increase, fueled by the strengthening local economy.
Sources: Arton Capital, Tourism Review, IATA
2) Rental yields in Antigua will rise in cities as tourist demand for short-term rentals increases
Rental yields in Antigua are on the rise as more tourists flock to the city, seeking short-term rentals.
Since 2023, Antigua has seen a surge in tourist arrivals, with 251,253 visitors in November 2024, up from 220,638 the previous month. This influx is driving up demand for short-term accommodations, making it a hot spot for property investors.
Short-term rentals are becoming increasingly popular, with occupancy rates hitting a median of 54%. Tourists love the flexibility and affordability these rentals offer compared to traditional hotels, and the numbers back it up.
By September 2024, Antigua boasted 1,598 active Airbnb listings, showing a clear trend towards this type of lodging. This growth is a testament to the rising interest among travelers looking for unique and convenient stays.
The average daily rate for these rentals was $66, and it's expected to climb as demand outpaces supply. For property owners, this means better returns on their investments, making it an attractive market.
Government efforts, like visa-free entry policies, are also boosting tourism, further fueling the demand for short-term rentals. This makes Antigua a promising destination for those looking to invest in real estate.
Sources: Airbtics, Trading Economics
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Guatemala versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.
3) Demand for smaller homes will grow as household sizes shrink
In Guatemala, household sizes are shrinking, reflecting a shift in living preferences.
In cities like Antigua, younger people are delaying marriage and having fewer children, leading to smaller households. This trend is particularly evident in urban areas where space is limited, making smaller homes more practical.
Urbanization is on the rise, especially around major cities, and there's a growing demand for compact homes. Younger, middle-class buyers are looking for budget-friendly options, often choosing smaller, multi-family units that fit their lifestyle.
Economic factors also play a part. With property prices climbing, smaller homes become more appealing to younger buyers who value affordability and sustainability. This shift aligns with a cultural move towards individualism and independent living.
As property prices rise, affordability becomes a priority for many, pushing them towards smaller living spaces. This trend is reshaping the real estate market, with a noticeable preference for efficient and budget-friendly homes.
Overall, these changes are gradually transforming the types of properties in demand, with a clear tilt towards smaller, more efficient living spaces.
Source: Global Data Lab
4) Demand for gated communities will rise as people seek more security and privacy
In 2023 and 2024, gated communities in Antigua, Guatemala, have become increasingly popular.
With Guatemala's homicide rate at 16.7 per 100,000 people in 2023, safety is a major concern for residents. This has led to a surge in interest for gated communities, where security is a top priority. Media outlets have been quick to highlight the benefits of these communities, making them even more appealing to those worried about crime.
Real estate trends show that sales in gated communities are on the rise, as buyers are drawn to the promise of a secure and comfortable lifestyle. Surveys indicate that more people are looking for homes in these areas, valuing the peace of mind they offer.
Developers are meeting this demand by investing in robust security measures like 24/7 surveillance, controlled access, and perimeter walls. These features not only attract buyers but also boost property values, making homes in these communities more desirable.
In fact, homes in gated communities can be up to 25% more expensive than those in non-gated areas. This price difference reflects the added value of security and the prestige associated with living in such neighborhoods.
As more people prioritize safety and privacy, the demand for gated communities is expected to grow, making them a smart investment for those looking to buy property in the country.
Sources: Infosegura, Que Pasa GT
5) More international buyers will be drawn to Antigua as virtual reality tours become common for property viewings
Virtual reality tours are revolutionizing how people buy property in Antigua, especially for those overseas.
Back in 2023 and 2024, over half of adults had already tried a virtual tour, and a whopping 67% of home buyers wanted them when checking out listings. This trend is only getting stronger, making virtual tours a must-have in property viewings.
Why are virtual tours so effective? Well, properties with virtual tours get 87% more views and sell for about 9% more on average. Buyers spend more time on these listings, and nearly half are ready to make an offer just from the virtual experience. This shows how convincing virtual tours can be when deciding on a purchase.
Antigua's real estate market is buzzing with interest from international buyers, especially from Europe. The island's Citizenship by Investment program and its reputation as a stable spot for digital nomads are big draws. Virtual tours give these international buyers an easy and affordable way to check out properties without hopping on a plane, fitting right in with the trend of buying property remotely.
For those eyeing Antigua, virtual tours are a game-changer. They offer a real sense of the property and its surroundings, making it easier to imagine living there. Buyers can explore every nook and cranny of a home from their couch, which is a huge plus for those who can't visit in person.
As more people look to invest in Antigua, virtual reality tours will likely become a standard tool for property viewings. This technology is attracting more international buyers, making it a key player in the real estate market.
Sources: PhotoUp, Global Citizen Solutions, Zillow
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6) Better transportation in Antigua will boost residential development in previously hard-to-reach areas
Antigua's transportation upgrades are making once hard-to-reach areas more appealing for homebuyers.
In 2023, the Guatemalan government poured funds into projects like the $80 million Escuintla-Puerto Quetzal road and the $180 million North-West road. These efforts are all about boosting connectivity and making travel easier.
By 2024, the Central American Bank for Economic Integration is set to approve $170 million for roads and bridges. This means quicker commutes, making remote spots more tempting for those eyeing new homes.
When infrastructure gets a facelift, property values often rise. Antigua's historic roads and paved streets have already shown this, drawing tourists and boosting real estate prices. This pattern hints that similar upgrades elsewhere could spark interest and drive up property values.
For potential buyers, these changes mean more options in areas that were once off the radar. With better roads, getting to urban centers becomes a breeze, making these spots more livable and attractive.
As these projects unfold, keep an eye on how they reshape the real estate landscape. The blend of improved access and rising property values could make these areas prime targets for residential development.
Sources: CABEI's Investment in Road Infrastructure, ANADIE's Infrastructure Projects, Real Estate Market Reports
7) Demand for eco-friendly properties in Antigua will grow due to environmental initiatives
Antigua is embracing a new wave of eco-friendly property developments.
Take Casa Ecco, for example, a standout project that uses recycled materials and solar energy to create sustainable homes. This is part of a broader trend where properties are being designed to have a minimal environmental footprint, making them attractive to eco-conscious buyers.
Meanwhile, the construction materials market in Guatemala is on the rise, with a projected growth rate of 6.6% from 2024 to 2032. This boom is largely driven by a demand for sustainable building materials, reflecting a shift towards greener construction practices.
People in Guatemala are increasingly leaning towards green homes, with a noticeable preference for energy-efficient and tech-smart apartments. This change in consumer behavior indicates that sustainability is becoming a major factor when purchasing property.
For those considering buying property in Antigua, this trend towards sustainability is crucial. As environmental initiatives gain momentum, the demand for properties with sustainable features is expected to rise, making them a smart investment.
In Antigua, the push for eco-friendly living is not just a trend but a growing movement, with more developments incorporating innovative green technologies to meet the needs of modern buyers.
Sources: Casa Ecco, Expert Market Research
8) Rental yields in Antigua's suburbs will drop slightly as city living becomes more popular
The urban population in Antigua is steadily increasing, with more people choosing city life.
By 2025, 67.3% of the population is expected to live in urban areas, driven by the search for better jobs and living conditions. This trend is making city-center properties more desirable.
Areas like Zona 10 and Antigua Guatemala are seeing property values rise annually by 3% to 7%. This growth in property values suggests that rental prices in these urban areas are also climbing, making them more appealing than suburban options.
As more people flock to the city, suburban areas in Antigua are likely to see a slight decline in rental yields. The allure of city living is drawing potential renters away from the suburbs.
For those considering buying property, the urban market in Antigua offers promising investment opportunities due to its rising demand and value.
Understanding these trends can help potential buyers make informed decisions about where to invest in Antigua's real estate market.
Source: City Population
We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Guatemala. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.
9) Property values will rise in areas with new public transportation projects improving connectivity
Guatemala City is buzzing with new public transportation projects, like the Metro Riel light rail system.
The Metro Riel, a 21 km light rail with 20 stations, kicked off in 2023 and is set to change the way people move around the city. This project is expected to have a similar impact as Bogotá's Transmilenio, which not only made commuting faster but also boosted property values in nearby areas.
Urbanization is on the rise, with Guatemala's urban population growing by over 2% in 2023. This growth highlights the need for more housing, especially in areas with improved transport. As land becomes scarce, developers are turning to vertical housing, which is likely to increase property values in well-connected areas.
Looking at other cities, like Bogotá, we see that better public transport can really lift the real estate market. The Transmilenio system made commuting easier and more accessible, which in turn raised property values around transit hubs. Guatemala City's Metro Riel is expected to have a similar effect.
Properties near the new Metro Riel stations are already seeing increased interest. As the project progresses, these areas are likely to become hot spots for buyers, with higher demand driving up property prices.
For those considering buying property in Guatemala City, keeping an eye on these new transit developments could be a smart move. The Metro Riel is not just about getting around; it's about transforming neighborhoods and boosting real estate values.
Sources: ITDP, BNamericas
10) Demand for rentals in key urban areas of Antigua will grow as the expat community expands
The growing expatriate community in Antigua is set to boost demand for rental properties in key urban areas.
With a 46% rise in foreign visitors to Guatemala in 2023 compared to 2022, more expatriates are eyeing Antigua as a potential home. This surge in interest often means a higher demand for temporary housing, like rentals, as newcomers settle in.
Antigua is becoming more appealing to expatriates thanks to the expansion of amenities and infrastructure in popular areas. As these developments continue, they make the region even more attractive, driving up the need for rental properties.
Media reports and social media buzz are painting Antigua as a desirable spot for expatriates, adding to the growing interest. This kind of exposure often leads to more people considering a move, further increasing rental demand.
Expatriate communities and networks are blossoming in Antigua, creating a supportive environment for newcomers. This welcoming atmosphere encourages more expatriates to settle down and look for rental accommodations as they integrate into the local scene.
Source: Gale
11) Property prices in rural Antigua will drop slightly as urbanization attracts people to city centers
In Guatemala, urban living is becoming increasingly popular.
Back in 2023 and 2024, the urban population growth rate was 2.2159%, showing a clear trend of people moving to cities. This shift is expected to continue, with urban areas projected to house 67.3% of the population by 2025. People are drawn to cities for better job opportunities and living conditions, leaving rural areas with less demand.
The job market is a big factor here. Guatemala's economy has been on the rise, with GDP per capita increasing by 1.9% from 2014 to 2023. This growth is creating more jobs in urban areas, pulling people away from the countryside. As a result, homes in cities are in high demand, while rural properties are taking longer to sell.
Younger buyers are particularly keen on city life. They want affordable, compact housing that fits their budgets and offers sustainable living options. This trend is part of a global shift towards smaller living spaces due to cost and environmental concerns. As more young people flock to cities, rural property prices are seeing a slight dip.
In Antigua, this urbanization trend is noticeable. The allure of city life is drawing people away from rural areas, leading to a decrease in property prices there. Longer listing times and reduced sales volumes in these areas are clear indicators of this shift.
For those considering buying property in the countryside, this could mean more negotiating power and better deals. However, it's essential to weigh the benefits of rural tranquility against the vibrant opportunities of urban living.
Source: Trading Economics
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12) Antigua’s luxury real estate prices will rise as more foreign buyers enter the market
Foreign buyers are flocking to Antigua's luxury real estate market for several compelling reasons.
One big draw is Antigua's Citizenship by Investment Program, which offers a straightforward path to citizenship for those investing in real estate. This program is a magnet for high-net-worth individuals looking for new opportunities and a second passport.
Antigua's strategic location and economic potential are also key factors driving up foreign investment in its real estate sector. The island is seeing a surge in luxury real estate developments, especially in hotspots like Antigua Guatemala, catering to international buyers eager for high-end properties.
With demand soaring and supply limited, property prices in Antigua are on the rise. Areas like English Harbour and Jolly Harbour are experiencing significant price hikes, making them prime targets for savvy investors.
The tourism boom in Guatemala, bolstered by a visa-free entry policy for many countries, is another factor fueling interest in Antigua's luxury rentals and high-end properties. This trend is pushing prices even higher, as more people look to invest in this thriving market.
Sources: Luxury Latin America, Airbtics
While this article provides thoughtful analysis and insights based on credible and carefully selected sources, it is not, and should never be considered, financial advice. We put significant effort into researching, aggregating, and analyzing data to present you with an informed perspective. However, every analysis reflects subjective choices, such as the selection of sources and methodologies, and no single piece can encompass the full complexity of the market. Always conduct your own research, seek professional advice, and make decisions based on your own judgment. Any financial risks or losses remain your responsibility.