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Buying an apartment in Córdoba involves several taxes and fees that can significantly impact your total investment. Property taxes, municipal fees, stamp duties, and ongoing maintenance costs add up to substantial amounts that every buyer must consider. As of September 2025, the tax structure in Córdoba includes provincial property taxes, municipal rates, stamp duties, and various transaction fees that together can reach 10-12% of the purchase price upfront, plus ongoing annual costs of $1,600-$2,100 USD for a typical $80,000 apartment.
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For an $80,000 apartment in Córdoba, expect to pay approximately $8,500-$9,700 in upfront transaction costs (10.5-12% of purchase price) and $1,600-$2,100 annually in taxes and fees.
The main costs include 3% stamp duty, 1.5-2.5% notary and registration fees, annual property tax of 0.5-2% of cadastral value, and monthly building expenses of $75-$120.
| Tax/Fee Type | Rate/Amount | When Paid |
|---|---|---|
| Stamp Duty (Impuesto de Sellos) | 3% of purchase price | At purchase |
| Notary Fees | 1-1.5% of purchase price | At closing |
| Registration Fees | 0.5-1% of purchase price | At closing |
| Property Tax (Impuesto Inmobiliario) | 0.5-2% of cadastral value | Annual |
| Municipal Tax (Tasa Municipal) | 0.2-0.4% of cadastral value | Annual |
| Building Expenses (Expensas) | $75-$120 per month | Monthly |
| Income Tax on Rental | 21% of net rental income | Annual (if renting) |
What's the purchase price of an apartment in Córdoba?
Apartment prices in Córdoba average $1,166 per square meter as of September 2025.
Apartments typically range from $1,000 to $3,000 per square meter depending on the neighborhood location and property quality. Prime areas like Nueva Córdoba command higher prices, while peripheral neighborhoods offer more affordable options.
For an $80,000 USD budget, you can typically purchase an apartment between 60 to 70 square meters in standard residential neighborhoods. This size range includes one to two-bedroom apartments in buildings with basic amenities like elevators and security.
The Córdoba residential market has shown steady price appreciation, with foreign buyers increasingly attracted to the city's affordability compared to Buenos Aires. Property prices are often quoted in USD but transactions are completed in Argentine pesos at the official exchange rate.
Location within Córdoba significantly impacts pricing, with central districts and university areas commanding premium rates due to high rental demand.
What's the official cadastral value of the property?
The cadastral value is set by provincial authorities and is substantially lower than the market price for tax assessment purposes.
As a general rule, the cadastral value represents approximately 40% to 60% of the actual market value. For an $80,000 property, expect a cadastral value between $32,000 to $48,000 USD when converted from pesos.
This valuation system is used specifically for calculating annual property taxes and municipal fees. The provincial government updates cadastral values periodically, but they typically lag behind current market conditions by several years.
The lower cadastral value benefits property owners by reducing their annual tax burden, though it also means that tax authorities collect less revenue from property taxes compared to systems based on market values.
Property owners can request a cadastral value review if they believe their assessment is incorrect, though increases are rare unless significant improvements have been made to the property.
How much is the annual property tax (Impuesto Inmobiliario) in Córdoba?
The annual property tax rate varies from 0.5% to 2% of the cadastral value based on property use, location zone, and improvements.
For a median rate of 1.5% applied to a $40,000 cadastral value, the annual property tax equals approximately $600 USD per year, paid in Argentine pesos at the current exchange rate. Residential properties typically receive more favorable rates compared to commercial properties.
Property owners can receive discounts of up to 30% for maintaining a good payment record or paying the full annual amount in advance rather than quarterly installments. Early payment discounts are common incentives offered by Córdoba province.
The tax is collected by the provincial revenue authority (Rentas de Córdoba) and funds provincial services including education, healthcare, and infrastructure maintenance. Payment can be made quarterly or annually through various channels including banks and online platforms.
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How much is the municipal tax or council rate (Tasa Municipal) charged each year?
Municipal taxes cover city services and are billed separately by the Córdoba municipality at rates of 0.2% to 0.4% of cadastral value annually.
For a property with a $40,000 cadastral value, the annual municipal tax ranges from $80 to $160 USD per year. This tax funds local services including street lighting, garbage collection, street maintenance, and municipal administration.
The municipal tax is separate from provincial property tax and is collected directly by the Municipality of Córdoba. Payment schedules and discount options vary from the provincial system, with some municipalities offering their own early payment incentives.
Different neighborhoods within Córdoba may have slightly varying municipal tax rates based on the level of services provided and local infrastructure investments. Central areas with better services typically have higher rates.
Property owners receive separate bills for municipal taxes, which can be paid at municipal offices, authorized banks, or through online payment systems established by the city government.
What are the average monthly building expenses or HOA fees (expensas) for an apartment?
Monthly building expenses for standard apartments in Córdoba range from $75 to $120 USD per month as of September 2025.
| Building Type | Monthly Expenses (USD) | Included Services |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Buildings | $50-$75 | Basic maintenance, cleaning |
| Standard Buildings | $75-$120 | Elevator, security, common areas |
| Luxury Buildings | $120-$200 | Pool, gym, 24/7 security, concierge |
| High-rise Towers | $150-$250 | Premium amenities, garage |
| Older Buildings | $40-$80 | Minimal services, shared utilities |
These expenses cover building maintenance, common area utilities, security services, elevator maintenance, and building administration. Buildings with amenities like pools, gyms, or 24-hour security charge higher monthly fees.
Expensas are paid monthly and are mandatory for all apartment owners regardless of occupancy. The building consortium determines the monthly amount based on actual expenses and reserves for major repairs or improvements.
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What's the stamp duty (Impuesto de Sellos) percentage when you buy a property?
Stamp duty in Córdoba is charged at approximately 3% of the declared purchase price for property transactions.
This tax varies between 1.5% to 4% depending on the province, but Córdoba typically applies a 3% rate for residential property purchases. The tax is calculated on the higher of the declared purchase price or the official fiscal value.
Stamp duty must be paid before the property transfer can be completed and registered. The payment is made to the provincial tax authority and is a one-time cost at the time of purchase.
Foreign buyers pay the same stamp duty rate as Argentine residents, with no additional surcharges or penalties. The tax is considered a transfer tax and is typically paid by the buyer unless otherwise negotiated in the purchase contract.
Some provinces offer reduced stamp duty rates for first-time homebuyers or social housing programs, though these benefits are generally limited to Argentine citizens and permanent residents.
How much is the notary and registration fee as a percentage of the purchase price?
Notary fees typically cost 1% to 1.5% of the purchase price for property transactions in Córdoba.
Registration fees add another 0.5% to 1% of the purchase price for recording the property transfer with the provincial property registry. Combined, notary and registration fees total approximately 1.5% to 2.5% of the purchase price.
Notary fees cover the preparation of the purchase deed (escritura), verification of legal documents, and oversight of the property transfer process. The notary ensures all legal requirements are met and taxes are properly paid.
Registration fees are paid to the Provincial Property Registry (Registro de la Propiedad) to officially record the new ownership and update public records. This registration is mandatory and provides legal proof of ownership.
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Are there annual provincial taxes separate from municipal and national ones?
Córdoba does not usually impose separate additional annual provincial property taxes beyond the standard Impuesto Inmobiliario.
Most provincial taxes related to property ownership are consolidated into the main property tax (Impuesto Inmobiliario) collected by the provincial revenue authority. This streamlines the tax collection process and reduces administrative burden on property owners.
Occasionally, special levies may be imposed for specific infrastructure projects or security improvements, but these are temporary and project-specific rather than ongoing annual taxes. Such levies are typically announced with advance notice to property owners.
The provincial government may also collect taxes on property transfers, such as stamp duty, but these are one-time transaction taxes rather than recurring annual obligations. Property owners should verify current tax obligations with local tax authorities.
Any additional provincial taxes would be clearly communicated through official channels and would appear on separate tax bills rather than being hidden within other charges.
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How much would income tax apply if you rent it out?
Income tax on rental income is charged at a flat rate of 21% on net rental income after allowable deductions.
Both residents and non-residents face the same 21% tax rate on rental income as of September 2025, though filing procedures may differ slightly. Property owners can deduct expenses such as maintenance, repairs, management fees, and depreciation when calculating net rental income.
Allowable deductions include property management fees, maintenance and repair costs, building expenses (expensas), insurance premiums, and property taxes. These deductions can significantly reduce the taxable rental income amount.
Property owners must file annual tax returns declaring rental income and claiming appropriate deductions. Non-resident owners may need to appoint a local tax representative to handle filing obligations and ensure compliance with Argentine tax laws.
The 21% rate applies to individual property owners, while corporate ownership may be subject to different tax rates and filing requirements depending on the entity structure and tax residence status.
How much is the capital gains tax if you sell the apartment?
Capital gains tax is charged at 15% of net capital gains for properties acquired after 2018.
Net capital gains are calculated as the sale price minus the adjusted purchase price plus certain allowable expenses including transaction costs and improvements. Inflation adjustments may apply to reduce the taxable gain amount.
Properties owned for longer periods may qualify for inflation adjustments to the original purchase price, effectively reducing the taxable capital gain. This adjustment helps account for peso devaluation over the holding period.
Transaction costs such as notary fees, registration fees, real estate commissions, and legal fees can be deducted from capital gains. Major improvements and renovations may also qualify as deductible expenses if properly documented.
Non-resident sellers face the same 15% capital gains tax rate as residents, though they may need to comply with additional reporting requirements or withholding tax procedures at the time of sale.
Are there additional one-time purchase costs like appraisal, survey, or legal fees?
Additional one-time purchase costs typically add $1,000 to $1,500 USD to the total transaction cost for an $80,000 apartment purchase.
1. **Property appraisal/valuation**: $200 to $500 USD for professional property valuation2. **Legal fees**: 0.5% to 1% of purchase price if choosing independent legal review beyond standard notary services3. **Real estate agent fees**: 4% plus 21% VAT (total 4.84%) of purchase price typically paid by the buyer4. **Administrative costs**: $200 to $500 USD for various documentation and processing fees5. **Survey costs**: Usually not required for apartments, though boundary surveys may be needed for some propertiesProperty surveys are optional for most apartment purchases since unit boundaries are clearly defined in building plans. However, buyers may choose to obtain surveys for verification purposes or lender requirements.
Independent legal review beyond standard notary services is optional but recommended for foreign buyers unfamiliar with Argentine property law. This provides additional protection and ensures all legal requirements are properly addressed.
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What's the total estimated yearly tax and fee burden for a typical $80,000 apartment?
The total estimated yearly tax and fee burden ranges from $1,600 to $2,100 USD for a typical $80,000 apartment in Córdoba.
| Annual Cost Category | Estimated Amount (USD) | Calculation Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Property Tax (Impuesto Inmobiliario) | $600 | 1.5% of $40,000 cadastral value |
| Municipal Tax (Tasa Municipal) | $100 | 0.25% of cadastral value |
| Building Expenses (Expensas) | $900-$1,400 | $75-$120 per month |
| Income Tax on Rental (if applicable) | Variable | 21% of net rental income |
| Insurance (optional but recommended) | $100-$200 | Property and liability coverage |
| Total Non-Rental Costs | $1,600-$2,100 | Excluding rental income tax |
These figures represent recurring annual costs that property owners must budget for regardless of whether they occupy the property or rent it out. Rental income tax is additional and depends on actual rental income received.
Upfront transaction costs total approximately $8,500 to $9,700 USD (10.5% to 12% of purchase price), including stamp duty, notary fees, registration costs, and other one-time expenses.
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.
Understanding the tax structure for apartment ownership in Córdoba is essential for making informed investment decisions and proper financial planning.
These costs represent significant ongoing financial commitments that must be factored into any property investment strategy in the Argentine market.
Sources
- BowTiedMara - Trends in Córdoba Area Real Estate
- The LatinVestor - Average House Price Argentina
- Global Property Guide - Argentina Taxes and Costs
- The LatinVestor - Moving Argentina Buy Property
- Rentas Córdoba - Impuesto Inmobiliario
- Forum of Federations - Subnational Tax Powers in Argentina
- The LatinVestor - Buenos Aires Apartment Maintenance Fees
- The LatinVestor - Buy Land Argentina
- Life Abroad Hero - Property Guide Argentina
- The LatinVestor - Argentina Real Estate Foreigner