Buying real estate in Brazil?

We've created a guide to help you avoid pitfalls, save time, and make the best long-term investment possible.

Can foreigners buy property in Florianópolis?

Last updated on 

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Brazil Property Pack

property investment Florianópolis

Yes, the analysis of Florianópolis' property market is included in our pack

Florianópolis rental yields in 2025 range from 3-7% depending on location and property type, with coastal areas offering lower yields but higher appreciation potential.

The city center delivers gross yields of 3-5%, while emerging neighborhoods like Campeche and Rio Vermelho provide better returns at 5-7% due to lower entry prices and rising rental demand. Short-term rentals can potentially double the yields of long-term leases, though they require active management and carry higher operational costs.

If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Brazil, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At The LatinVestor, we explore the Brazilian real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Florianópolis, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

What are the current average rental yields in Florianópolis by property type and location?

As of September 2025, Florianópolis rental yields vary significantly across different property types and neighborhoods.

City center apartments currently deliver gross yields of 3-5% in established central areas. These yields have declined as property prices have outpaced rent growth, making central locations less attractive for pure rental returns. However, the stability and consistent demand in these areas provide reliable income streams.

Emerging neighborhoods offer substantially better yields of 5-7%. Areas such as Campeche, Rio Vermelho, and Saco Grande are experiencing rising rental demand while maintaining lower entry prices compared to premium locations. These neighborhoods represent the sweet spot for investors seeking higher returns without venturing into completely undeveloped areas.

Prime coastal properties, particularly luxury beachfront locations, fetch the highest purchase prices at R$15,000-20,000 per square meter. However, their rental yields are under pressure, typically ranging from 3-4%, as appreciation has significantly outpaced rent growth in these prestigious areas.

It's something we develop in our Brazil property pack.

How do rental yields vary across different neighborhoods and coastal versus inland areas?

The coastal versus inland divide creates distinct yield patterns across Florianópolis neighborhoods.

Properties closer to prestigious beaches or with better transport links to tourist hubs generally maintain higher gross yields, though this advantage is narrowing. The premium locations command higher rents but also require significantly higher capital investment, often resulting in compressed net yields.

Coastal neighborhoods like Barra da Lagoa, Jurerê Internacional, and Canasvieiras offer yields in the 3-5% range. These areas benefit from tourist demand and higher rental rates, particularly for short-term rentals, but the elevated purchase prices limit overall yield potential.

Inland and less accessible areas experience lower yields due to stagnant rental growth and reduced tenant demand. Remote neighborhoods can see vacancy rates exceed 12-15%, especially during low tourist seasons, significantly impacting annual yield calculations.

The transportation infrastructure plays a crucial role in yield determination. Properties within 15 minutes of major bus routes or the planned metro expansion areas command rental premiums of 15-25% compared to similar properties in less connected locations.

What are the typical property sizes and surface areas available, and how does yield change by size?

Florianópolis offers diverse property sizes with varying yield characteristics across different segments.

Property Type Size Range Average Price per m² Typical Yield Range
Studio Apartments 30-45m² R$12,286 4-6%
1-Bedroom Apartments 45-60m² R$12,701-14,411 3.5-5.5%
3-Bedroom Apartments 100-140m² Up to R$17,128 3-5%
Houses 120-400m² R$9,865-11,229 3-5%
Luxury Villas 300-800m² R$15,000-20,000 2.5-4%

Smaller apartments, particularly studios and one-bedroom units, sometimes achieve marginally better yields due to strong demand from singles, digital nomads, and young professionals. The difference is narrowing as price growth at the entry level has been robust, with studio prices increasing 15-20% in 2024 alone.

Houses generally offer lower per-square-meter prices but require higher absolute investment amounts, making them suitable for investors with larger capital bases seeking diversification rather than maximum yield optimization.

What is the average purchase price including all fees and taxes for each property type?

Understanding total acquisition costs is crucial for accurate yield calculations in the Florianópolis market.

Apartment prices citywide currently range from R$14,169-17,435 per square meter, while houses average R$9,865-11,229 per square meter. Prime coastal and beachfront properties command R$15,000-20,000 per square meter, representing the premium end of the market.

Specific property price ranges include entry-level one-bedroom apartments at R$450,000-700,000, city center three-bedroom units at R$1.5-3 million, and luxury beachfront villas starting at R$3 million and extending beyond R$12 million for ultra-premium properties.

Transaction costs add 8-10% to the purchase price, including transfer tax, notary fees, registration costs, and legal fees. This means a R$1 million property actually costs R$1.08-1.10 million all-in, significantly impacting yield calculations.

Foreign buyers should budget an additional 2-3% for specialized legal services, currency conversion costs, and potential holding company setup fees if structuring the purchase through a Brazilian entity for tax optimization.

Don't lose money on your property in Florianópolis

100% of people who have lost money there have spent less than 1 hour researching the market. We have reviewed everything there is to know. Grab our guide now.

investing in real estate in  Florianópolis

What are the typical ongoing expenses such as maintenance, insurance, condo fees, and local taxes?

Ongoing expenses significantly impact net rental yields and require careful calculation for accurate investment analysis.

Condominium fees range from R$10-20 per square meter per month, translating to R$500-1,500 monthly for most apartments, with luxury units commanding higher fees. These fees cover building maintenance, security, common area upkeep, and reserve fund contributions.

IPTU (property tax) ranges from 0.6-2% of assessed value annually, with most properties falling in the 1-1.5% range. Properties in premium neighborhoods often face higher assessment ratios, increasing the effective tax burden.

Insurance costs R$200-500 annually for apartments and R$500-1,200 for houses, depending on coverage levels and property value. Comprehensive coverage including natural disaster protection is recommended given Florianópolis' coastal location.

Maintenance reserves should account for 5-10% of condominium fees, while additional repairs and maintenance for family houses can range from R$5,000-20,000 annually. Property management services, if utilized, typically charge 8-10% of rental income.

It's something we develop in our Brazil property pack.

How does financing with a mortgage affect the rental yield compared to buying in cash?

Mortgage financing significantly impacts rental yields in the Brazilian market due to relatively high interest rates.

Brazilian mortgage interest rates typically exceed 10% annually, substantially increasing total ownership costs compared to cash purchases. This high cost of borrowing often renders leveraged property investments cash-flow negative, particularly in lower-yield coastal or central markets.

Cash buyers generally achieve higher net yields as they avoid interest expenses entirely. A property delivering 4% gross yield might provide 2% net yield for a cash buyer but become cash-flow negative for a leveraged buyer after debt service obligations.

Financing also introduces additional costs including loan origination fees, mortgage insurance, and ongoing banking charges that further erode returns. Foreign buyers face additional challenges in securing Brazilian mortgages, often requiring larger down payments and accepting less favorable terms.

Leveraged investments only make sense in high-yield scenarios (above 6-7% gross) or when investors expect significant capital appreciation to compensate for negative cash flow during the holding period.

What are the average rents for short-term versus long-term rentals and how do their yields compare?

The short-term versus long-term rental decision significantly impacts yield potential and management requirements.

Short-term rentals (Airbnb-style) generate median monthly revenue of $768 (approximately R$4,200), with top 10% of hosts earning $2,496+ monthly. Average nightly rates hover around $100 with typical occupancy rates of 43% annually, though this varies dramatically by season and location.

Long-term rentals provide more stable income streams with typical city-center one-bedroom apartments renting for R$2,500-2,800 monthly and three-bedroom units commanding R$5,000-8,000. Outlying areas typically rent for 20-40% less than central locations.

Short-term rentals offer potential to double the gross yield of long-term leases during peak seasons, but carry substantially higher operational costs including cleaning, guest management, marketing, and higher vacancy rates during low seasons.

The 43% average occupancy rate for short-term rentals implies 57% vacancy if properties remain available year-round, though strategic pricing and marketing can improve these metrics significantly. High-season occupancy can reach 80-90% in well-managed coastal properties.

What is the typical vacancy rate by property type and neighborhood?

Vacancy rates vary significantly across Florianópolis neighborhoods and property types, directly impacting annual yields.

Location Type Typical Vacancy Rate Peak Season Impact
Central & Coastal Premium Under 7% 2-4% during high season
Emerging Neighborhoods 8-12% 5-8% during high season
Remote/Inland Areas 12-15% Minimal seasonal variation
Short-term Rentals 57% average 20-30% in peak months
Student Housing 5-8% Higher during semester breaks

Central and coastal areas maintain lower vacancy rates due to consistent demand from both locals and tourists. These premium locations benefit from year-round appeal and diverse tenant pools.

Remote and less accessible neighborhoods can experience vacancy rates exceeding 12-15%, particularly during low tourist seasons when temporary residents return to their home cities.

Short-term rental vacancy averages 57% annually when calculated as available nights versus occupied nights, though peak season performance can dramatically improve overall annual returns despite these high baseline vacancy rates.

infographics rental yields citiesFlorianópolis

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Brazil 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.

Can you provide example rental yield calculations for different property types from top-line rent to gross yield to net yield?

Understanding the complete yield calculation from gross rent to net return is essential for investment decision-making.

For a typical one-bedroom city center apartment, the complete calculation shows the impact of all costs on returns.

Long-term Rental Example:
Purchase Price (including fees): R$800,000
Gross Annual Rent: R$2,800 × 12 = R$33,600
Gross Yield: (R$33,600 ÷ R$800,000) × 100 = 4.2%
Annual Expenses: R$1,000/month (condo fees, taxes, repairs) = R$12,000
Net Yield: (R$33,600 - R$12,000) ÷ R$800,000 × 100 = 2.7%

Short-term Rental Example (same apartment):
STR Gross Income: R$8,000/month × 12 = R$96,000 (assumes optimized management)
Expenses (cleaning, management, vacancy): 40% = R$38,400
Net Yield: (R$96,000 - R$38,400) ÷ R$800,000 × 100 = 7.2%

The short-term rental calculation assumes high-quality management and strong seasonal performance, which requires significant time investment or professional management services that reduce the actual net yield.

What are the profiles of typical renters for short-term and long-term leases in Florianópolis?

Understanding tenant demographics helps optimize property selection and rental strategies for maximum yield.

Short-term rental tenants primarily consist of tourists, digital nomads, remote workers, returning Brazilians, and families on vacation. This demographic values proximity to beaches, restaurants, and cultural attractions, willing to pay premium rates for well-located, well-equipped properties.

The digital nomad segment has grown significantly post-2020, with many international remote workers choosing Florianópolis for 1-6 month stays. These tenants prioritize reliable internet, modern amenities, and workspace functionality.

Long-term rental tenants include local tech workers, university students (particularly near the federal university), relocating professionals, digital nomads on work visas, and expats seeking stability. This group values transportation access, neighborhood amenities, and cost efficiency over luxury features.

The student market near UFSC (Federal University of Santa Catarina) provides consistent demand but typically requires furnished properties and accepts shared accommodation arrangements, affecting both rental rates and property wear patterns.

Corporate relocations, particularly in the technology sector, create demand for furnished short-term rentals lasting 3-12 months, representing a hybrid segment between traditional short and long-term categories.

How have rents and yields changed compared to 1 year ago and 5 years ago, and what are the forecasts for 1, 5, and 10 years?

Florianópolis has experienced significant rental market evolution over recent years with important implications for future yields.

Property prices have grown 25%+ cumulatively from 2019-2023, with an additional 10-12% increase in 2024. This aggressive price appreciation has outpaced rental growth, creating yield compression across most market segments.

Rents grew at a 13% pace in 2023 but lagged significantly behind purchase price increases, compressing yields particularly in central and luxury segments. This trend continued into 2024, with rental growth moderating to 8-10% while prices maintained double-digit appreciation.

Forecast projections suggest 3-7% annual price appreciation through 2026, with rental growth expected to remain moderate at 5-8% annually. This indicates continued yield compression, especially in premium coastal areas where speculation has driven prices beyond fundamentals.

The 5-year outlook (2025-2030) anticipates yield stabilization as rental growth begins to match price appreciation more closely. Infrastructure improvements, including the planned metro expansion, should support rental demand in connected neighborhoods.

10-year projections (2025-2035) suggest potential yield recovery as the market matures and rental supply-demand dynamics rebalance. However, this assumes continued economic growth and tourism sector development without major external shocks.

It's something we develop in our Brazil property pack.

How do current rental yields in Florianópolis compare with other similar-sized coastal cities in Brazil and worldwide?

Comparative yield analysis places Florianópolis in context with other investment destinations.

City Average Gross Rental Yield (2025) Market Characteristics
Florianópolis 3-7% Location-dependent, strong tourism
São Paulo 5.9% Large market, business hub
Rio de Janeiro 3.8% Mature market, high prices
Fortaleza 3.4% Coastal, tourism-focused
Recife 9.2% Emerging market, lower prices
Vitória 4.5% Industrial, steady demand

Florianópolis yields sit between Rio de Janeiro (lower yield, higher appreciation) and São Paulo (higher yield, business demand). The city offers yields comparable to established coastal destinations but lower than emerging markets like Recife.

Internationally, Florianópolis yields compare favorably to European coastal cities where yields often fall below 3%, but trail emerging Asian markets where 6-8% yields remain common.

The quality of life, infrastructure, and regulatory environment in Florianópolis justifies yield premiums over higher-yielding but riskier emerging markets, while offering better growth potential than mature, low-yield international destinations.

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.

Sources

  1. Florianópolis Real Estate Trends - The LatinVestor
  2. Florianópolis Property Market Analysis - The LatinVestor
  3. Florianópolis Real Estate Forecasts - The LatinVestor
  4. Florianópolis House Prices - PropertyStar
  5. Florianópolis Price Forecasts - The LatinVestor
  6. Brazilian Residency Legislation - H-Arcana
  7. Florianópolis Rental Market Report - AirROI
  8. Brazil Rental Yields - Global Property Guide