Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Argentina Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Buenos Aires' property market is included in our pack
Buying property in Buenos Aires as a foreigner is straightforward and legal.
Argentina offers one of the most open property markets in Latin America, with foreign buyers enjoying nearly identical rights to locals. You don't need residency status to purchase real estate, but you'll need to obtain a CDI tax ID and navigate specific legal requirements.
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.
Foreigners can buy property in Buenos Aires with minimal restrictions, requiring only a CDI tax ID and no residency status.
The complete purchase process involves significant transaction costs of 10-11% and typically takes 30-60 days from offer to completion.
| Aspect | Requirement | Cost/Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Nationality Restrictions | None for urban property | Full ownership rights |
| Residency Status | Not required | CDI tax ID mandatory |
| Physical Presence | Not mandatory | Power of attorney option |
| Transaction Costs | Buyer + seller fees | 10-11% total roundtrip |
| Mortgage Access | Very limited for foreigners | 25-35% annual rates |
| Average Prices | Varies by neighborhood | $2,460/sqm citywide |
| Legal Assistance | Highly recommended | 2% + 21% VAT |
Can foreigners buy property in Buenos Aires with the same rights as locals?
Yes, foreigners can buy property in Buenos Aires with rights nearly identical to Argentine citizens.
The Argentine Constitution grants equal civil rights to non-citizens, including full property ownership rights. This means you can purchase, own, sell, and inherit real estate just like any local resident.
The only restrictions apply to certain rural land areas, particularly those near borders or of strategic importance. Standard residential and commercial real estate in urban Buenos Aires is fully accessible to all nationalities.
Argentina operates under a "reciprocity principle," meaning your property rights may occasionally depend on what your home country permits Argentine buyers. However, in practice, almost all nationalities can buy urban property freely.
As of September 2025, there are no pending legislative changes that would restrict foreign property ownership in Buenos Aires.
What residency status or visa do I need to buy property in Argentina?
You don't need any specific residency status or visa to buy property in Buenos Aires.
You can purchase real estate on a simple tourist visa, and residency is not required for property ownership. However, owning property does not provide a path to Argentine residence or citizenshipâyou must apply through separate immigration channels if you plan to live long-term.
The only mandatory requirement is obtaining a CDI (Clave de IdentificaciĂłn), which is Argentina's tax identification number. Every real estate transaction requires this tax ID, regardless of your residency status.
To get your CDI, you need your passport and proof of a local address, which can be a hotel booking, rental contract, or "certificado de domicilio" from the police. The process takes 1-2 business days at an AFIP office and costs approximately $20 USD.
Do I need to be physically present in Buenos Aires to complete the purchase?
Physical presence is not mandatory for completing a property purchase in Buenos Aires.
The entire process can be handled remotely if you grant power of attorney to an Argentine lawyer or trusted representative. Many international buyers have successfully concluded deals from abroad, especially since the pandemic when remote procedures became more common.
All legal documentation, contract signing, and final notary procedures can be completed through proper legal representation. Your lawyer can handle everything from property searches to final deed registration on your behalf.
However, we strongly recommend an inspection trip before making your final purchase decision. Seeing the property, neighborhood, and meeting your legal team in person provides valuable insights that photos and virtual tours cannot convey.
It's something we develop in our Argentina property pack.
What is the complete step-by-step process for buying property in Buenos Aires?
The property buying process in Buenos Aires follows six main steps that typically take 30-60 days to complete.
| Step | Action Required | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Property Search & Reservation | Make initial offer with 30% deposit ("Reserva") | 1-7 days |
| 2. Obtain CDI | Get tax ID from AFIP office | 1-2 business days |
| 3. Purchase Agreement | Sign "Boleto de Compraventa" with lawyer | 7-14 days |
| 4. Due Diligence | Title search, debt check, property valuation | 14-21 days |
| 5. Final Sale | Sign "Escritura PĂșblica" before notary | 1 day |
| 6. Registration | Register deed with Land Registry | 7-14 days |
Is hiring a lawyer mandatory, and how do I choose the right one?
Hiring a lawyer is not legally mandatory but is highly recommended for any property purchase in Buenos Aires.
A qualified Argentine lawyer (abogado) or notary public (escribano) will handle due diligence, contract drafting, and legal representation throughout the process. They ensure the property has a clear title, no outstanding debts, and proper permits.
When choosing a lawyer, look for solid real estate experience, transparent fee structures (fixed rates rather than percentages), positive client reviews, and English proficiency if needed. They should also be able to handle remote representation if you're buying from abroad.
Use referrals from expat communities, real estate agents, or curated professional lists. Confirm they can conduct thorough property history reviews and manage all paperwork from start to finish.
Legal fees typically range from 2% of the property value plus 21% VAT, but this investment protects you from costly mistakes and legal complications.
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What are all the taxes, fees, and costs when buying and selling property?
Property transactions in Buenos Aires involve significant costs totaling 10-11% for a complete buy-and-sell cycle.
| Cost Type | Who Pays | Typical Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | Buyer | 1-1.5% of property value |
| Real Estate Agent Commission | Both parties | 2% + 21% VAT each |
| Legal Fees | Buyer | 2% + 21% VAT |
| Transfer Tax | Both parties | 1.8% each |
| Stamp Duty | Buyer | 3% of property value |
| Registration Fee | Buyer | Approximately 0.5% |
| Property Tax (Annual) | Owner | 0.25-1.5% depending on value |
Can foreigners get mortgages in Argentina, and what are the conditions?
Mortgage access for foreigners in Argentina is extremely limited and generally not practical.
Most Argentine banks require local residency, employment history, and extensive financial documentation. Even for qualifying applicants, interest rates range from 25-35% annually, making mortgages prohibitively expensive.
Banks typically require 30-50% down payments, and loan terms are restrictive with high monthly payments. The peso's volatility adds additional currency risk for foreign borrowers.
The best financing strategy is arranging funds in your home country and purchasing in cash. Alternative options include seller financing (direct installments with the property owner) or USD-denominated loans from international banks, though these are complex and expensive.
As of September 2025, cash purchases remain the most practical approach for foreign buyers in the Buenos Aires property market.
What are current property prices by neighborhood in Buenos Aires?
Buenos Aires property prices vary significantly by neighborhood, with the citywide average at $2,460 per square meter as of September 2025.
Premium neighborhoods command the highest prices, led by Puerto Madero at $6,500 per square meter. Palermo Soho and Hollywood areas average over $4,000 per square meter, while traditional areas like Belgrano average $2,916 per square meter.
Mid-range neighborhoods include Caballito at $2,268 per square meter and NĂșñez at $2,808 per square meter. These areas offer good value for both living and investment purposes.
Compared to other major Argentine cities, Buenos Aires commands premium pricing. Mendoza and CĂłrdoba generally offer 30-40% lower prices per square meter than the capital.
Property prices in Buenos Aires have shown resilience despite economic challenges, with premium areas maintaining value better than peripheral neighborhoods.
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.
Which neighborhoods are best for foreigners, living, and investment?
Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood top the list for foreign buyers seeking rental income and capital appreciation.
- Palermo Soho: Trendy area with excellent restaurants, nightlife, and consistently high rental demand from young professionals and tourists
- Recoleta: Traditional upscale neighborhood with cultural attractions, museums, and stable long-term rental market
- Puerto Madero: Modern waterfront district popular with corporate executives, offering luxury amenities but lower rental yields
- San Telmo: Historic neighborhood experiencing gentrification, popular with tourists and artists seeking authentic Buenos Aires experience
- Villa Crespo: Emerging area with strong growth potential and more affordable entry prices for investors
- Belgrano: Residential family-friendly area with good schools, parks, and steady rental demand
- Caballito: Central location offering excellent value and strong rental returns for budget-conscious investors
What are the latest market data for rental yields and growth forecasts?
Buenos Aires consistently ranks among the top South American cities for expat quality of life and investment potential.
Rental yields in prime neighborhoods range from 6-8% net annually, with Palermo Soho and Caballito leading returns. Short-term rental properties in tourist areas can achieve higher yields, particularly during peak season months.
Growth forecasts for 2025 show premium areas like Palermo Soho expecting 8-12% price appreciation, while emerging neighborhoods like Villa Crespo project around 5.5% growth. These projections reflect ongoing urbanization and foreign investment interest.
Buenos Aires attracts over 3 million tourists annually, supporting strong demand for short-term rentals. The city's excellent public transportation, healthcare system, and cultural offerings make it attractive for both tourists and long-term expat residents.
It's something we develop in our Argentina property pack.
What are the main mistakes foreigners make when buying property?
The most common mistake is skipping proper due diligence on title history, outstanding debts, and potential legal issues.
- Inadequate due diligence: Not thoroughly checking property title, debt status, and litigation history before purchase
- Currency exchange losses: Overpaying due to poor exchange rate timing or not understanding payment currency requirements
- Non-refundable deposits: Making significant deposits without legal review, as the "boleto" contract is legally binding
- Poor legal representation: Choosing inexperienced lawyers or notaries who don't specialize in real estate transactions
- Tax compliance failures: Ignoring CDI registration requirements and ongoing tax obligations
- Underestimating total costs: Not budgeting for the full 10-11% transaction costs involved in buying and eventually selling
What are the tax implications in Argentina and my home country?
Property ownership in Buenos Aires creates tax obligations both locally and potentially in your home country.
In Argentina, you'll pay annual property taxes (IBP) ranging from 0.25-1.5% for residential properties, plus municipal service charges averaging 0.55% for lighting, street cleaning, and maintenance. Non-residents also pay personal assets tax on Argentine property holdings.
Rental income from Buenos Aires property is subject to Argentine income tax, even for non-residents. Tax rates vary based on income levels and property type, with deductions available for maintenance and management expenses.
For international tax implications, consult specialists in your home country regarding double taxation treaties with Argentina. Most countries require declaration of worldwide income and assets, making proper record-keeping essential.
It's something we develop in our Argentina 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.
Argentina offers one of the most accessible property markets in Latin America for foreign investors, with minimal restrictions and full ownership rights.
Success depends on proper legal guidance, understanding total transaction costs, and choosing the right neighborhood for your investment goals.
Sources
- Argentina Real Estate for Foreigners - The LatinVestor
- Buenos Aires Legal Requirements - The LatinVestor
- Argentina Property Buying Guide - Expat Focus
- Buy House in Argentina - Lawyers Argentina
- Argentina Investment Guide - Armenian Lawyer
- Can Americans Buy Property in Argentina - The LatinVestor
- Moving to Argentina Property Guide - The LatinVestor
- Property Buying Process Argentina - The LatinVestor
- Argentina Property Taxes and Costs - Global Property Guide
- Argentina Price Forecasts - The LatinVestor