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Argentina's real estate market in 2025 shows strong recovery with apartment prices in Buenos Aires ranging from $2,300-$2,500 per square meter, while secondary cities like Córdoba and Mendoza offer more affordable options at $1,400-$1,600 and $1,200 per square meter respectively.
Property costs vary significantly across regions, with coastal tourist destinations like Bariloche commanding premium prices up to $2,850 per square meter, while smaller inland towns offer houses from $800-$1,200 per square meter. Transaction costs add 7-10% to purchase prices, including notary fees, legal costs, and real estate commissions.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Argentina, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Buenos Aires apartments average $2,300-$2,500 per square meter, with premium areas reaching $6,500 per square meter, while a standard two-bedroom apartment costs $136,000-$150,000.
Transaction costs including notary fees, legal expenses, and real estate commissions add approximately 7-10% to the total purchase price, with mortgage rates currently at 37.84% making cash purchases more common.
| City | Apartment Price per m² | House Price per m² | 2BR Apartment Total Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires | $2,300-$2,500 | $2,268-$5,931 | $136,000-$300,000 |
| Córdoba | $1,400-$1,600 | $1,000-$3,000 | $110,000-$180,000 |
| Mendoza | $1,200 | $1,000-$1,600 | $102,000 |
| Bariloche | $2,530-$2,850 | $2,530-$2,850 | $171,000-$193,000 |
| Mar del Plata | $1,200-$1,800 | $1,200-$1,800 | $81,000-$122,000 |
| Smaller Towns | $800-$1,200 | $800-$1,200 | $54,000-$81,000 |
What's the average price per square meter for apartments in major cities like Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Mendoza right now?
As of September 2025, apartment prices vary dramatically across Argentina's major cities, with Buenos Aires commanding the highest rates in the country.
In Buenos Aires, the average apartment price ranges from $2,300 to $2,500 per square meter in most neighborhoods. However, premium areas show significant price premiums, with Palermo reaching $3,500 to $4,300 per square meter and the ultra-luxurious Puerto Madero district commanding $5,000 to $6,500 per square meter. Budget neighborhoods in Buenos Aires start from around $1,500 per square meter, offering more affordable entry points for buyers.
Córdoba, Argentina's second-largest city, offers more accessible pricing at $1,400 to $1,600 per square meter for apartments. Premium areas within Córdoba may reach higher prices, but the city generally maintains its position as a more affordable alternative to the capital. Mendoza, known for its wine region and mountain proximity, shows the most competitive apartment pricing among major cities at approximately $1,200 per square meter, with premium zones and modern condominiums reaching $1,200 to $1,600 per square meter.
These price differences reflect each city's economic importance, tourism appeal, and local demand dynamics. Buenos Aires maintains its premium due to being the financial and cultural center, while Córdoba and Mendoza offer attractive alternatives for investors seeking lower entry costs with growth potential.
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How much do houses typically cost per square meter in these same cities and how does that compare to smaller towns?
House prices per square meter show wider ranges than apartments, reflecting the diversity in property types, lot sizes, and locations within each market.
Buenos Aires houses range from $2,268 to $5,931 per square meter, with the upper end representing luxury properties in exclusive neighborhoods. The significant price spread reflects the city's diverse residential areas, from modest family homes to high-end properties with premium amenities and locations.
In Córdoba and Mendoza, house prices typically range from $1,000 to $3,000 per square meter. Newer, modern homes command higher prices than older properties, with construction quality and amenities driving the premium. Well-maintained properties with updated features consistently outperform older homes requiring renovation.
Smaller towns across Argentina offer much more affordable housing options, with typical prices ranging from $800 to $1,200 per square meter. Countryside properties and peripheral areas can be even cheaper, making them attractive for buyers seeking larger properties or vacation homes. These smaller markets often provide excellent value for money, especially for those prioritizing space over urban amenities.
The price differential between major cities and smaller towns reflects infrastructure quality, job opportunities, and access to services, with smaller towns offering significant savings for buyers willing to accept reduced urban conveniences.
What's the average total purchase price for a standard two-bedroom apartment in Buenos Aires today?
A standard two-bedroom apartment in Buenos Aires typically costs between $136,000 and $150,000 for mid-range neighborhoods, assuming an average size of approximately 60 square meters.
Prime locations command significantly higher prices, with luxury two-bedroom units ranging from $156,000 to $300,000. These premium properties often feature superior finishes, building amenities like pools and gyms, prime neighborhood locations, and modern construction standards. The higher-end market includes areas like Palermo, Recoleta, and Puerto Madero, where demand from both local and international buyers drives prices upward.
Budget-conscious buyers can find two-bedroom apartments in emerging neighborhoods starting around $90,000, though these typically require some renovation or are located in areas with fewer amenities. The wide price range reflects Buenos Aires' diverse neighborhoods, each offering different lifestyle benefits and investment potential.
Buyers should consider that newer constructions and recently renovated properties command 20-30% premiums over older, unrenovated units, making renovation potential an important factor in purchase decisions.
What's the price range for a three-bedroom house with a garden in a mid-sized city?
Three-bedroom houses with gardens in mid-sized Argentine cities typically range from $100,000 to $350,000, with significant variation based on location, amenities, age, and land size.
Basic family homes in good condition start near $120,000, offering essential features like functional layouts, modest garden spaces, and standard finishes. These properties appeal to families seeking affordable homeownership with outdoor space for children and pets. Mid-range properties in the $180,000 to $250,000 range often feature better construction quality, larger gardens, modern kitchens and bathrooms, and desirable neighborhood locations.
Luxury houses approach $300,000 or more, featuring premium finishes, landscaped gardens, multiple bathrooms, modern appliances, and prime locations within their respective cities. These properties often include features like swimming pools, covered outdoor entertainment areas, and high-quality construction materials.
Cities like Córdoba, Mendoza, Rosario, and Mar del Plata offer different value propositions within this range, with coastal cities sometimes commanding premiums for proximity to beaches, while inland cities may offer more space for the same budget.
How much cheaper or more expensive is property on the coast, in tourist hotspots like Mar del Plata or Bariloche, compared to inland areas?
Coastal and tourist destination properties show significant price variations, with some areas commanding substantial premiums while others offer competitive pricing compared to major inland cities.
Mar del Plata, Argentina's premier beach destination, shows apartment prices ranging from $1,200 to $1,800 per square meter. Beach area properties command premiums within this range, but overall pricing remains generally lower than Buenos Aires, making it attractive for vacation homes and investment properties. The seasonal rental market in Mar del Plata provides good income potential during summer months.
Bariloche represents the most expensive interior location in Argentina, with prices ranging from $2,530 to $2,850 per square meter. Prime tourist and lakefront locations often exceed $500,000 for quality properties, reflecting the area's appeal to both domestic and international buyers seeking mountain and lake lifestyle amenities. Bariloche's year-round tourism and stunning natural setting justify these premium prices.
Compared to other inland cities, Bariloche and some coastal areas can be 30-50% higher than average inland prices. However, Mendoza and smaller inland towns remain 30-50% cheaper than these tourist hotspots, creating clear value distinctions across different market segments.
Tourism seasonality significantly impacts these markets, with rental income potential helping justify higher purchase prices in many coastal and mountain destinations.
What's the typical cost difference between buying new construction and older properties in Argentina?
New construction properties consistently command significant premiums over older properties, reflecting buyer preferences for modern amenities and reduced maintenance concerns.
New developments typically cost 10-25% more per square meter than comparable older properties in the same neighborhoods. This premium reflects modern construction standards, contemporary layouts, energy-efficient systems, and warranty coverage that older properties cannot offer. Buyers pay extra for the peace of mind that comes with new construction, including predictable maintenance costs and modern building codes compliance.
Renovated properties occupy a middle ground, commanding 20-30% higher prices and rental returns compared to older, unrenovated units. Professional renovations that update kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and systems can significantly increase property values while still offering savings compared to new construction.
The premium for new construction varies by location and market conditions, with some areas showing larger gaps than others. Buyers must weigh the higher upfront costs against reduced maintenance expenses, warranty coverage, and the appeal of contemporary design and functionality.
Smart buyers often target well-located older properties with renovation potential, allowing them to customize finishes while achieving final values competitive with new construction at lower total investment.
What are the current property tax rates and average annual amounts for a mid-range apartment or house?
Argentina's property tax structure includes both local property taxes and potential wealth taxes, creating multiple tax obligations for property owners.
| Tax Type | Rate | Annual Amount (Mid-range Property) |
|---|---|---|
| Local Property Tax | 0.5-2% of assessed value | $1,000-$4,000 |
| Wealth Tax (Non-residents) | 0.5-2.25% | $1,000-$4,500 |
| Buenos Aires Property Tax | 0.75-1.5% | $1,500-$3,000 |
| Córdoba Property Tax | 0.5-1% | $800-$1,600 |
| Mendoza Property Tax | 0.6-1.2% | $720-$1,440 |
For a mid-range apartment valued at $200,000, annual property taxes typically range from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the province and specific municipality. Buenos Aires properties generally face higher tax rates than other provinces, reflecting the higher property values and municipal service levels.
Non-resident property owners face additional wealth tax obligations that can reach 0.5-2.25% annually, significantly increasing the total tax burden for foreign investors. These wealth taxes apply to the total value of Argentine assets owned by non-residents, making tax planning essential for international buyers.
Provincial variations in tax rates create opportunities for tax optimization through careful location selection, though buyers should prioritize overall investment returns rather than making decisions solely based on tax considerations.
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What are the standard notary and legal fees as a percentage of the purchase price, and how much does that add in pesos or dollars?
Notary and legal fees represent significant transaction costs in Argentine real estate purchases, adding substantial amounts to the total investment required.
Notary fees (escribano) typically cost 1-1.5% of the purchase price, plus 21% VAT on these fees. For a $200,000 property, notary fees would range from $2,000 to $3,000, plus an additional $420 to $630 in VAT, totaling $2,420 to $3,630. The notary plays a crucial role in Argentine real estate transactions, handling title searches, contract preparation, and registration with government agencies.
Legal fees for independent counsel, while optional, typically add another 0.5-1% of the purchase price. Many buyers choose to hire their own lawyers in addition to the notary to ensure proper legal representation throughout the transaction process. For a $200,000 property, this adds $1,000 to $2,000 in additional legal costs.
Combined notary and legal fees typically total 2-3% of the purchase price when including VAT and independent legal counsel. These fees must be paid in cash and are typically settled at closing, requiring buyers to budget for these costs separate from their property financing.
The complexity of Argentine real estate law makes professional legal assistance highly recommended, despite the additional costs involved.
What are the average real estate agent commission rates and the typical total amount for a standard property sale?
Real estate agent commissions in Argentina follow a standardized structure that differs from many other countries, with buyers rather than sellers typically paying these fees.
The standard real estate agent commission rate is 4% of the purchase price, plus 21% VAT on the commission, totaling 4.84% paid by the buyer. This commission structure means that for a typical $150,000 property purchase, the total commission would be $7,260. Unlike many markets where sellers pay agent commissions, Argentine buyers must budget for these costs as part of their total investment.
For higher-value properties, some negotiation on commission rates may be possible, though the 4% base rate remains standard across most markets and agencies. International buyers should be particularly aware of this cost structure, as it differs significantly from commission practices in North American and European markets.
These commissions cover agent services throughout the transaction process, including property identification, price negotiation, contract coordination, and assistance with legal and administrative procedures. Given the complexity of Argentine real estate transactions, experienced local agents provide valuable services that justify their fees.
Buyers should confirm commission arrangements early in the property search process to ensure accurate budgeting for total transaction costs.
How much do buyers usually spend on renovations or upgrades for a second-hand property, on average per square meter?
Renovation costs for second-hand properties vary significantly based on the scope of work required and the quality of finishes desired by buyers.
Basic renovation costs average $350 to $600 per square meter for standard upgrades including painting, flooring replacement, kitchen and bathroom updates, and basic electrical and plumbing improvements. For a typical 80-square-meter apartment, basic renovations would cost $28,000 to $48,000, representing a significant additional investment beyond the purchase price.
Comprehensive luxury renovations can exceed $800 per square meter, including high-end finishes, complete kitchen and bathroom remodels, premium flooring, modern lighting systems, and architectural modifications. These extensive renovations often approach 30-40% of the property's purchase price, requiring careful consideration of total investment versus final property value.
Many buyers target properties requiring moderate renovations in good locations, allowing them to customize finishes while achieving final values competitive with new construction. Strategic renovations focusing on kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring typically provide the best return on investment while improving livability.
Renovation costs should be carefully budgeted at the time of purchase, as many older properties require some level of updating to meet modern standards and buyer preferences.
It's something we develop in our Argentina property pack.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Argentina 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.
What's the current average mortgage interest rate in Argentina and the maximum loan-to-value ratio banks usually offer?
Argentine mortgage financing presents significant challenges due to high interest rates and strict lending requirements, making cash purchases the preferred option for most property buyers.
As of September 2025, the average mortgage interest rate stands at 37.84%, representing a sharp increase from 33.55% in recent months. These extremely high rates reflect Argentina's ongoing inflation challenges and currency dynamics, making mortgage financing prohibitively expensive for most buyers. Monthly payments at these rates often exceed rental costs for equivalent properties, pushing buyers toward cash transactions.
Banks typically offer maximum loan-to-value ratios of 70-80%, requiring substantial down payments even when financing is available. Combined with high interest rates, these LTV limits mean buyers need significant cash reserves to pursue financed purchases. Many banks also require extensive documentation and proof of stable income in US dollars or Argentine pesos adjusted for inflation.
The challenging financing environment has created a predominantly cash market, with most transactions completed entirely with buyer funds. This dynamic particularly affects first-time buyers and those without substantial liquid assets, while favoring investors with cash resources.
International buyers should plan for cash purchases when considering Argentine real estate, as financing options remain limited and expensive for both residents and foreign nationals.
How do prices in Argentina compare in USD terms to similar properties in neighboring countries like Chile or Uruguay right now?
Argentina's property prices show mixed competitiveness compared to neighboring countries, with significant variations depending on the specific city and property type being compared.
Buenos Aires apartment prices at $2,300-$2,500 per square meter are similar to or slightly higher than Santiago, Chile, which averages $2,494 per square meter. This makes Buenos Aires competitive with Chile's capital while offering potentially better value given Argentina's economic recovery potential. A standard two-bedroom apartment in Buenos Aires ($136,000-$300,000) compares favorably to Santiago's range of $160,000-$165,000, though Buenos Aires shows wider price variation.
Compared to Montevideo, Uruguay, Buenos Aires commands a clear premium. Uruguay's capital shows apartment prices of $1,800-$2,200 per square meter, with two-bedroom apartments ranging from $130,000-$210,000. Buenos Aires' premium reflects its larger market size, economic importance, and cultural attractions, though Uruguay offers greater political and economic stability.
Argentina's secondary cities offer excellent regional value, with Córdoba ($1,400-$1,600 per square meter) and Mendoza ($1,200 per square meter) significantly undercutting comparable cities in Chile and Uruguay. These markets provide attractive entry points for investors seeking exposure to Argentine real estate at lower price points.
Rural Argentina and small towns at $800-$1,200 per square meter offer exceptional value compared to neighboring countries, making them attractive for lifestyle purchases and long-term investment strategies.
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Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Argentina's real estate market in 2025 offers diverse opportunities across price segments, from premium Buenos Aires properties to affordable options in secondary cities and rural areas.
Transaction costs averaging 7-10% of purchase price and high mortgage rates favor cash buyers, while regional price variations create opportunities for strategic investors willing to explore markets beyond the capital.
Sources
- Average House Price Argentina - The LatinVestor
- How Much Does a House in Argentina Cost - Accounting Insights
- Buenos Aires Property Market - The LatinVestor
- Mendoza Price Forecasts - The LatinVestor
- Property in Argentina: Renting, Buying, Legalities & Costs
- Mendoza Property Market - The LatinVestor
- Argentina 2-Bedroom Apartment Prices - Global Property Guide
- Argentina Price Forecasts - The LatinVestor
- Bariloche Price Forecasts - The LatinVestor
- Argentina Mortgage Interest Rates - The Global Economy