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Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Guatemala Property Pack
House prices in Guatemala vary significantly between urban centers and rural areas, with Guatemala City averaging $1,000-$2,000 per square meter while rural properties can cost as little as $50 per square meter.
As of September 2025, a typical 3-bedroom house in Guatemala City costs between $120,000-$350,000, while the same property in Antigua ranges from $150,000-$300,000. Construction costs average $500-$1,000 per square meter, and buyers should budget an additional 4-5% for closing costs on existing homes.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Guatemala, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Guatemala's housing market shows strong regional variation, with Guatemala City commanding premium prices while rural areas offer affordable options for budget-conscious buyers.
Property taxes remain low at 0.2% annually, mortgage rates range from 6-9%, and the market has experienced significant growth with national prices rising 59.8% over the past five years.
| Location | Price per m² | 3-Bedroom House Range |
|---|---|---|
| Guatemala City | $1,000-$2,000 | $120,000-$350,000 |
| Antigua | $500-$800 | $150,000-$300,000 |
| Quetzaltenango | $725 (central) | $100,000-$200,000 |
| Rural Areas | $50-$800 | $50,000-$150,000 |
| Tourist Towns | $150-$800 | $60,000-$300,000 |
What's the average price per square meter for a house in Guatemala right now?
House prices per square meter in Guatemala vary dramatically based on location and property type as of September 2025.
In Guatemala City, residential properties average $1,000-$2,000 per square meter, with premium neighborhoods like Zona 10, 14, and 15 reaching the upper end of this range. These areas command higher prices due to their proximity to business districts, shopping centers, and international amenities.
Antigua, the colonial tourist destination, shows more moderate pricing at $500-$800 per square meter. Despite being a UNESCO World Heritage site, Antigua's residential market remains more accessible than the capital, though historic center properties command premium prices within this range.
Quetzaltenango, Guatemala's second-largest city, offers mid-range pricing at approximately $725 per square meter in central areas, with prices dropping significantly in the outskirts and suburban zones.
It's something we develop in our Guatemala property pack.
How much does a typical 3-bedroom house cost in the main cities like Guatemala City, Antigua, and Quetzaltenango?
Three-bedroom houses represent the most popular housing choice for families and investors in Guatemala's major cities.
Guatemala City's 3-bedroom market spans $120,000-$350,000 for mid-market properties, while luxury neighborhoods can reach $500,000-$2,000,000 depending on location and amenities. Properties in established areas like Zona 10 or 15 typically include modern finishes, security systems, and proximity to international schools.
Antigua's 3-bedroom houses range from $150,000-$300,000 in the outskirts, with historic center properties commanding $250,000-$1,000,000 due to their colonial architecture and central location. Many properties in Antigua require renovation to meet modern standards, which buyers should factor into their budget.
Quetzaltenango offers the most affordable option among major cities, with 3-bedroom houses priced $100,000-$200,000 in central areas. Outskirt properties provide even better value, often featuring larger lots and newer construction at lower price points.
Properties in gated communities across all three cities typically add $20,000-$50,000 to base prices but include security, maintenance, and community amenities.
What's the price range for smaller towns or rural areas in Guatemala?
Rural Guatemala offers dramatically lower housing costs compared to urban centers, making it attractive for retirees and budget-conscious buyers.
General rural areas across Guatemala price houses at $50-$600 per square meter, with the lower end representing simple concrete block construction in remote villages and the higher end covering well-built homes in accessible rural towns with basic infrastructure.
Tourist-oriented rural towns like those around Lake Atitlán command premium prices of $150-$800 per square meter, with complete houses ranging $60,000-$800,000 depending on lake proximity and amenities. These areas attract international buyers seeking vacation homes or retirement properties.
Coastal and agricultural rural land offers the lowest prices at $50-$150 per square meter for non-prime locations without immediate development potential. These properties often require significant infrastructure investment for utilities and road access.
Remote mountain villages and indigenous communities typically offer the most affordable options, though buyers should consider challenges with land titles, utility access, and building permits in these areas.
How much does land alone cost per square meter in urban versus rural zones?
| Zone Type | Price Range per m² | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Guatemala City Prime | $1,500-$2,000 | Luxury residential/commercial |
| Guatemala City Standard | $500-$1,500 | Middle-class residential |
| Antigua Center | $400-$800 | Tourist/residential mix |
| Quetzaltenango Urban | $200-$600 | Standard residential |
| Tourist Rural Towns | $50-$200 | Vacation/retirement homes |
| Agricultural Rural | $10-$50 | Farming/remote residential |
| Remote Mountain | $5-$25 | Basic agricultural use |
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What are the average construction costs per square meter if I build instead of buy?
Building a house in Guatemala can offer significant savings compared to purchasing existing properties, especially in urban areas where land costs remain reasonable.
Standard residential construction in urban and near-urban locations costs $500-$1,000 per square meter as of September 2025. This includes concrete block walls, tile roofing, basic electrical and plumbing systems, and standard interior finishes suitable for middle-class housing.
Luxury construction with high-end finishes, imported materials, and custom features ranges $1,200-$1,500 per square meter. These projects typically include marble countertops, hardwood floors, premium fixtures, and advanced security systems.
Rural construction costs drop to $400-$800 per square meter due to lower labor costs and reduced material transportation expenses. However, buyers should factor in additional costs for utility connections and road access in remote areas.
Construction costs exclude land purchase, permits, architectural plans, and utility connections, which can add $10,000-$30,000 to total project costs depending on location and complexity.
How much would a house with 100, 150, and 200 square meters cost based on today's average rates?
House costs in Guatemala depend heavily on location and whether you're buying existing property or building new construction.
| House Size | Construction Cost | Guatemala City Market | Antigua Market | Rural Areas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 m² | $50,000-$100,000 | $100,000-$200,000 | $50,000-$150,000 | $25,000-$80,000 |
| 150 m² | $75,000-$150,000 | $150,000-$300,000 | $75,000-$225,000 | $40,000-$120,000 |
| 200 m² | $100,000-$200,000 | $200,000-$400,000 | $100,000-$300,000 | $50,000-$160,000 |
What's the yearly property tax rate and how much would that be for a $100,000 and $200,000 home?
Guatemala maintains one of the lowest property tax rates in Latin America, making ongoing ownership costs very manageable for investors and residents.
The annual property tax (IUSI) rate is 0.2% of the declared cadastral value for most residential properties valued up to approximately $2,614,400. This rate applies to the vast majority of single-family homes and condominiums throughout the country.
For a $100,000 home, annual property tax equals $200 per year, or approximately $17 per month. For a $200,000 home, the annual tax is $400, or about $33 per month. These low rates make Guatemala attractive for international investors seeking minimal ongoing tax obligations.
Properties exceeding the threshold face higher rates of 0.6-0.9% for luxury and high-value properties. However, this mainly affects mansions and commercial properties rather than typical residential homes.
Property tax payments can be made annually or in quarterly installments, with small discounts available for early payment in some municipalities.
How much do closing costs, legal fees, and registration fees typically add to the purchase price in Guatemala?
Closing costs in Guatemala are relatively straightforward but represent a significant expense that buyers must budget beyond the purchase price.
- Registration Fee: 0.15% of property value paid by the buyer
- Legal Fees: 1% of property value for attorney representation
- Stamp Duty: 3% for pre-owned properties; 12% VAT on new construction
- Notary Fees: Variable but typically $500-$2,000 depending on transaction complexity
- Title Search and Insurance: $300-$800 for due diligence services
For existing homes, total closing costs typically equal 4-5% of the purchase price when combining all fees and taxes. On a $200,000 property, buyers should budget $8,000-$10,000 for closing expenses.
New construction carries significantly higher costs due to the 12% VAT requirement, bringing total closing costs to 15-16% of the purchase price. This makes pre-owned properties more attractive from a cost perspective.
It's something we develop in our Guatemala property pack.
What are the average monthly maintenance or HOA fees for houses in gated communities?
Gated communities in Guatemala provide security and amenities that many international buyers consider essential, but these benefits come with monthly fees.
Monthly HOA fees in Guatemalan gated communities range Q650-Q1,000 ($80-$130) as of September 2025. These fees typically cover 24-hour security, communal area maintenance, landscaping, water supply, and garbage collection services.
Premium communities with additional amenities like pools, tennis courts, clubhouses, or golf course access charge $150-$300 monthly. These higher-end developments often include concierge services, maintenance staff, and recreational facility management.
Rural gated communities generally charge lower fees of $50-$100 monthly due to reduced security costs and simpler amenities. However, these communities may have fewer services and require residents to handle some maintenance independently.
Some developments include utilities like water and basic cable in HOA fees, while others charge separately. Buyers should clarify exactly what services are included before committing to a purchase.
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.
How much would utilities (electricity, water, internet) cost per month for an average family home?
Monthly utility costs in Guatemala remain affordable compared to North American and European standards, making it attractive for international residents and retirees.
Electricity, gas, and water for an average-sized home (approximately 85 square meters) typically cost $60-$80 per month. Air conditioning use during hot months can increase electricity bills to $100-$120, particularly in coastal and lowland areas.
High-speed internet service costs $40-$50 monthly for reliable connections suitable for remote work or streaming. Major providers offer fiber optic service in urban areas, while rural locations may rely on satellite or cellular internet at similar prices.
Total monthly utility expenses including electricity, water, gas, and internet range $100-$160 for most families. Larger homes or those with pools, extensive air conditioning, or luxury features may see bills reach $200-$250 monthly.
Rural properties often have lower electricity costs but may face higher internet expenses due to limited provider options and infrastructure challenges.
What's the average mortgage interest rate in Guatemala and how much would monthly payments be for a $150,000 loan over 20 years?
Mortgage financing in Guatemala is available to both residents and non-residents, though terms and rates vary significantly between local and international banks.
Current mortgage interest rates range 6-10% annually, with most loans averaging 6-8.9% for 20-year fixed-rate mortgages as of September 2025. Local banks typically offer better rates to residents with established banking relationships and stable income documentation.
For a $150,000 mortgage over 20 years at 7% interest, monthly payments would be approximately $1,161. At the lower 6% rate, payments drop to about $1,075 monthly. At the higher 8.9% rate offered by some Guatemala City banks, payments increase to roughly $1,280 monthly.
Foreign buyers often face stricter requirements including larger down payments (30-50%), proof of international income, and higher interest rates. Some international banks offer specialized programs for expatriate borrowers with more favorable terms.
Most Guatemalan mortgages require 20-30% down payments, with loan-to-value ratios rarely exceeding 80% for residential properties.
How much has the average house price increased or decreased in the last 5 years in Guatemala?
Guatemala's residential real estate market has experienced substantial growth over the past five years, driven by economic stability, foreign investment, and urban development projects.
National average house prices have increased 59.8% from 2020 to 2025, representing one of the strongest growth rates in Central America. This dramatic appreciation reflects increased demand from both domestic buyers and international investors seeking affordable Latin American real estate.
Guatemala City has seen more moderate but steady growth of 15-25% over five years, with luxury neighborhoods experiencing the strongest appreciation due to limited supply and high-end international demand.
Antigua shows the most dramatic price increases, with historic center properties rising from $300-$500 per square meter in 2020 to $500-$800 per square meter in 2025, representing approximately 60% growth. This reflects Antigua's growing popularity as a tourist destination and expat retirement location.
Rural and smaller town markets have grown 20-30% over five years, though from much lower baseline prices, making them increasingly attractive for budget-conscious international buyers seeking affordable property options.
It's something we develop in our Guatemala 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.
Guatemala's housing market offers compelling opportunities for both investors and residents seeking affordable property in a stable Central American market.
With low property taxes, reasonable construction costs, and strong price appreciation over recent years, Guatemala presents an attractive alternative to more expensive regional markets while maintaining good infrastructure and accessibility.
Sources
- The LatinVestor - Average House Prices in Guatemala
- The LatinVestor - Guatemala Price Forecasts
- The LatinVestor - Guatemala City Price Forecasts
- Numbeo - Property Investment Comparison
- Global Property Guide - Guatemala Taxes and Costs
- The LatinVestor - Moving to Guatemala to Buy Property
- Biz Latin Hub - Buying Property in Guatemala
- Global Property Guide - Guatemala Buying Guide