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Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Chile Property Pack
Chile's housing market offers diverse opportunities with house prices varying significantly between Santiago and rural areas.
As of September 2025, the average price per square meter for houses ranges from $700 in rural areas to over $4,000 in Santiago's premium neighborhoods. A typical 80-100 m² house costs between $60,000 in rural areas and $250,000 in Santiago, making Chile an attractive option for both investors and those looking to relocate.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Chile, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
House prices in Chile vary dramatically by location, with Santiago commanding premium rates of $2,300-2,500 USD/m² while rural areas offer properties for as low as $700 USD/m².
Total transaction costs including notary fees, registration, and legal expenses typically add 3-5% to the purchase price, while mortgage rates average around 4.4% as of September 2025.
| Location | Price per m² (USD) | 80-100m² House Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Santiago (average) | $2,300-2,500 | $180,000-250,000 |
| Santiago (premium areas) | $3,000-4,000 | $240,000-400,000 |
| Mid-sized cities | $1,300-1,700 | $110,000-170,000 |
| Rural areas | $700-1,200 | $60,000-120,000 |
| Land (Santiago area) | $300-800 | N/A |
| Land (rural areas) | $10-50 | N/A |
| Construction costs | $1,200-2,000 | $96,000-200,000 |
What's the average price per square meter for houses in Chile right now?
The Chilean housing market shows significant regional variation in pricing as of September 2025.
The national average for houses ranges from $1,900 to $2,300 USD per square meter. Santiago, the capital and largest city, commands higher prices with an average of $2,300 to $2,500 USD per square meter for houses.
Premium neighborhoods in Santiago such as Las Condes, Vitacura, and Providencia can exceed $3,000 to $4,000 USD per square meter due to their desirable locations, modern infrastructure, and proximity to business centers. Mid-sized cities typically offer houses at prices 30-40% lower than Santiago, averaging $1,300 to $1,700 USD per square meter.
Rural areas present the most affordable options, with prices often well below $1,000 USD per square meter, typically ranging from $700 to $1,200 USD per square meter depending on the specific region and proximity to urban centers.
It's something we develop in our Chile property pack.
What's the typical total cost of a small house (around 80–100 m²) in a mid-sized Chilean city?
A small house of 80-100 square meters in a mid-sized Chilean city typically costs between $110,000 and $170,000 USD.
This price range applies to standard neighborhoods in cities like La Serena, Valdivia, Temuco, or Concepción. The variation depends on factors such as the specific location within the city, the age and condition of the property, and local amenities.
Mid-sized cities offer better value compared to Santiago while still providing essential services, employment opportunities, and quality of life. These areas often feature lower population density, reduced traffic congestion, and more affordable living costs overall.
Properties in better neighborhoods or those closer to city centers, universities, or commercial areas tend toward the higher end of this range, while houses in developing or peripheral areas may fall closer to the lower end.
What's the typical total cost of a similar-sized house in Santiago?
A house of 80-100 square meters in Santiago typically costs between $180,000 and $250,000 USD in mid-tier neighborhoods.
This price range reflects Santiago's status as Chile's economic and political center, where demand significantly exceeds supply in many areas. The variation within this range depends on the specific comuna (district), with some areas commanding premium prices due to better infrastructure, security, and proximity to business districts.
Premium neighborhoods like Las Condes, Vitacura, or Providencia can push prices well above $300,000 for similar-sized properties, while emerging or more distant areas might offer options closer to $150,000. The Santiago housing market benefits from better job opportunities, cultural amenities, and international connectivity.
These prices reflect the significant urban premium that Santiago commands compared to other Chilean cities, driven by its concentration of high-paying jobs and foreign investment.
What's the typical total cost of a similar-sized house in a rural area?
Rural areas in Chile offer the most affordable housing options, with 80-100 square meter houses typically costing between $60,000 and $120,000 USD.
The wide price range reflects the diverse nature of rural properties, from basic homes in remote agricultural areas to well-maintained houses in small towns with better infrastructure. Properties closer to major highways, tourist destinations, or regional centers tend toward the higher end of this range.
Rural properties often come with larger land plots, which can significantly increase the total value depending on the size and agricultural potential of the land. Some rural areas near popular destinations like wine regions or coastal areas may command higher prices due to tourism or second-home demand.
Infrastructure availability greatly impacts pricing, with properties having reliable electricity, water, and internet access commanding premiums over those requiring significant utility investments.
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How much do land plots cost per square meter in different regions?
Land prices in Chile vary dramatically based on location and intended use.
In the Santiago metropolitan area, residential land typically costs $300 to $800 USD per square meter, with prime locations commanding the highest prices. This reflects the intense development pressure and limited available land in the capital region.
Mid-sized cities and favored regions like La Serena or Valdivia offer residential land at $100 to $400 USD per square meter, providing more affordable development opportunities while maintaining access to urban amenities. These areas often represent good value for those seeking to build custom homes.
Rural areas present the most affordable land options, with prices sometimes as low as $10 to $50 USD per square meter for agricultural or remote plots. However, buyers should carefully consider infrastructure costs, as remote land may require significant investment in utilities, road access, and other basic services.
Coastal areas and wine regions may command premium prices even in rural settings due to tourism potential or agricultural value.
What's the average cost difference between buying a new build and buying an older property?
New construction in Chile typically costs 10-25% more per square meter compared to older properties.
This premium reflects modern building standards, energy efficiency requirements, updated electrical and plumbing systems, and contemporary design features that meet current buyer expectations. New builds also often include warranties and require less immediate maintenance investment.
Older houses, particularly those built before 2000, are usually cheaper but may require significant renovation investments to meet modern standards. These properties might have outdated electrical systems, poor insulation, or require seismic upgrades to meet current safety standards.
The age premium varies by location, with Santiago showing larger gaps between new and old properties due to stricter building codes and higher buyer expectations. In rural areas, the difference may be smaller as buyers often prioritize affordability over modern amenities.
When considering older properties, buyers should budget for potential renovation costs that could offset the initial savings.
How much should I expect to pay in notary, registration, and legal fees?
Total closing costs in Chile typically range from 3% to 5% of the property purchase price.
| Fee Type | Percentage of Purchase Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Notary fees | 1.0-1.5% | Document preparation and notarization |
| Registration fees | 0.2-0.6% | Property registry and title transfer |
| Legal fees | 1.0% | Attorney services and due diligence |
| Property transfer tax | 0.2-0.6% | Government transfer tax |
| Inspection and appraisal | 0.3-0.5% | Property valuation and condition assessment |
| Insurance (first year) | 0.3-0.5% | Property insurance premium |
| Miscellaneous costs | 0.2-0.4% | Document copies, travel, other expenses |
These costs are mandatory and must be paid in Chilean pesos (CLP) during the transaction process. Foreign buyers should expect to work with Chilean notaries and ideally engage independent real estate attorneys to ensure proper legal compliance.
It's something we develop in our Chile property pack.
What's the average annual property tax for a mid-range home?
Annual property tax (contribuciones) in Chile is approximately 0.5% of the property's fiscal value.
For a mid-range home valued at $150,000 USD, this typically translates to annual property taxes of around $750. The fiscal value used for tax calculations is often lower than market value, potentially reducing the actual tax burden.
Luxury properties above certain official thresholds may face higher tax rates, while some first-time homebuyers or lower-value properties may qualify for reduced rates or temporary exemptions. The tax system aims to be progressive, with higher-value properties contributing proportionally more.
Property taxes fund local municipal services including street maintenance, public lighting, garbage collection, and local infrastructure improvements. Payment is typically made in quarterly installments, though annual payments may qualify for small discounts.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Chile 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 are typical monthly utility costs for a 3-bedroom home?
Monthly utility costs for a 3-bedroom home in Chile vary significantly by location and season.
- Santiago and major cities: $120-180 USD per month including electricity, water, gas, and garbage collection
- Mid-sized cities: $100-140 USD per month for the same services
- Rural areas: $90-130 USD per month, often lower due to reduced municipal fees
- Winter heating costs: Additional $30-60 USD during cold months (May-September)
- Internet and cable: Additional $40-70 USD per month depending on service level
Electricity costs vary seasonally, with higher bills during winter months due to heating needs, especially in southern regions. Natural gas is commonly used for heating and cooking in urban areas, while rural properties may rely on propane or electric heating.
Water costs are generally reasonable throughout Chile, though some regions may experience seasonal variations. Garbage collection and municipal services are typically included in local taxes or charged as separate utility fees.
What's the average cost per square meter for construction if I want to build from scratch?
Construction costs in Chile range from $1,200 to $2,000 USD per square meter depending on location and quality level.
Santiago construction typically costs around $1,750 to $2,000 USD per square meter due to higher labor costs, stricter building codes, and premium material prices. This reflects the capital's demanding construction standards and competitive contractor market.
Mid-sized cities and rural areas offer more affordable construction at $1,200 to $1,700 USD per square meter, though quality and timeline may vary depending on contractor availability and material transportation costs. Remote locations may face higher costs due to logistics challenges.
These costs include basic construction with standard finishes, electrical and plumbing systems, and compliance with Chilean building codes. Premium finishes, specialized features, or complex architectural designs can significantly increase costs beyond these ranges.
Building permits, architectural plans, and engineering studies add additional costs that should be factored into total project budgets.
What's the average cost of basic renovations per square meter in Chile?
Renovation costs in Chile depend on the scope and quality level of improvements desired.
Basic renovations including repainting, new flooring, minor updates, and cosmetic improvements typically cost $350 to $600 USD per square meter. This level of renovation can significantly improve a property's appearance and market value without major structural changes.
Comprehensive renovations involving kitchen and bathroom upgrades, electrical and plumbing improvements, and full interior updates range from $700 to $1,000 USD per square meter. These projects often require permits and professional contractors to ensure code compliance.
Structural renovations, additions, or major system replacements can exceed $1,000 USD per square meter and may require architectural and engineering services. Rural properties may face additional challenges accessing skilled contractors and specialized materials.
Renovation costs should be carefully planned as they can significantly impact the total investment in a property, particularly for older homes requiring extensive updates.
What's the average mortgage interest rate and monthly repayment for a $100,000 USD property?
As of September 2025, average fixed mortgage interest rates in Chile are approximately 4.4%.
For a $100,000 USD mortgage over 30 years at 4.4% interest, monthly payments would be approximately $500-550 USD excluding property taxes and insurance. This calculation assumes a traditional fixed-rate mortgage with standard terms available to qualified borrowers.
Chilean banks typically require 20-30% down payments for property purchases, meaning a $100,000 mortgage would be for a property valued at $125,000-143,000. Foreign buyers may face additional requirements including proof of income, credit history, and legal residency status.
Mortgage terms in Chile typically range from 15 to 30 years, with longer terms resulting in lower monthly payments but higher total interest costs. Some banks offer variable rate options that may start lower but carry interest rate risk over time.
It's something we develop in our Chile property pack.
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.
Chile's housing market offers diverse opportunities across different price ranges and locations, from affordable rural properties to premium Santiago real estate.
Understanding the total cost of ownership, including purchase price, transaction fees, taxes, and ongoing expenses, is crucial for making informed property investment decisions in Chile.
Sources
- aparthotel.com/analyze/chile/
- thelatinvestor.com/blogs/news/santiago-property
- thelatinvestor.com/blogs/news/santiago-price-forecasts
- thelatinvestor.com/blogs/news/chile-price-forecasts
- properstar.mu/chile/buy/land-plot
- thelatinvestor.com/blogs/news/buy-land-chile
- thelatinvestor.com/blogs/news/can-americans-buy-property-chile
- assets.kpmg.com TIES-Chile report
- internationalliving.com/countries/chile/cost-of-living-in-chile/
- theglobaleconomy.com/Chile/mortgage_interest_rate/