Secondary Real Estate in Argentina: Affordable Urban Living and Investment Potential

Why Argentina’s Resale Property Market Attracts Global Buyers

Argentina’s secondary real estate market presents a compelling combination of affordability, urban lifestyle, and long-term value. With a rich architectural heritage and strong rental demand in major cities, resale properties in Argentina are increasingly appealing to both domestic buyers and international investors. From renovated apartments in Buenos Aires to family homes in Mendoza and Córdoba, the market offers a wide range of housing at significantly lower prices than comparable Latin American or European cities.

While Argentina has experienced economic volatility in recent decades, real estate has remained a stable store of value for locals and a practical entry point for foreigners. The ability to purchase property in U.S. dollars, combined with high rental yields in peso terms, adds to the appeal of secondary real estate. Whether you're looking for a personal residence, a buy-to-let investment, or a base for relocation, the resale property market in Argentina offers strong fundamentals and lifestyle benefits.

Who Buys Secondary Property in Argentina?

• Argentine citizens: Moving from suburban areas into city centers or upgrading from inherited homes.
• Expats and digital nomads: Relocating to Buenos Aires or coastal towns for lifestyle and cost advantages.
• Investors: Targeting long-term capital appreciation or peso-denominated rental income.
• Returning Argentine diaspora: Purchasing homes in family neighborhoods or cultural hubs.
• Students and professionals: Seeking housing close to universities, hospitals, or business districts.

Top Cities and Districts for Resale Property

Buenos Aires

Argentina’s capital offers a wide range of secondary properties—from Art Deco apartments in San Telmo and Recoleta to modernized units in Palermo and Belgrano. Prices vary significantly by neighborhood, but many resale apartments offer high ceilings, original parquet floors, and balconies. Yields in Buenos Aires range from 5% to 9%, particularly in areas with strong Airbnb or student rental demand.

Córdoba

Argentina’s second-largest city and a major university hub, Córdoba offers affordable resale housing in Nueva Córdoba, Güemes, and Alta Córdoba. These areas attract students, professionals, and tourists, making them ideal for both living and investment.

Rosario

Located along the Paraná River, Rosario has a strong local economy and vibrant cultural life. Resale apartments in Centro and Pichincha attract young professionals and small families. The city’s planned infrastructure improvements make it an emerging hotspot.

Mendoza

As the center of Argentina’s wine country, Mendoza is popular with retirees, remote workers, and vacation-home buyers. Secondary homes in Chacras de Coria or Godoy Cruz offer charm, gardens, and mountain views at affordable prices.

Mar del Plata and Coastal Cities

In cities like Mar del Plata, resale beachfront condos are priced attractively, especially outside peak season. These are ideal for seasonal living or short-term rental investment.

Benefits of Buying Secondary Real Estate in Argentina

1. Immediate Ownership and Use

Unlike new developments, resale properties are ready for occupancy or rental. This makes them ideal for buyers with urgent housing needs or investors seeking immediate cash flow.

2. Established Neighborhoods

Resale homes are located in areas with existing infrastructure—public transport, schools, hospitals, and parks. These established zones tend to hold long-term value and offer strong tenant appeal.

3. Lower Entry Prices

Secondary properties are often 10%–30% cheaper than new builds. This allows buyers to enter the market with smaller budgets or to purchase multiple units for portfolio diversification.

4. Historical Architecture

In cities like Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Rosario, many resale units feature early 20th-century architectural elements, including French-style façades, mosaic floors, and antique woodwork.

5. Currency Advantage for Foreign Buyers

Most transactions are completed in U.S. dollars, offering currency protection. Given Argentina’s peso devaluation, foreigners can acquire real estate at favorable exchange rates, while generating high returns in local currency.

Property Types and Price Ranges

One-Bedroom Apartments

In Buenos Aires, resale prices for 1-bedroom units range from $40,000 to $90,000, depending on location and condition. These units are in high demand among students and singles.

Family Homes

In suburban areas of Córdoba or Mendoza, detached homes with gardens can be found for $80,000–$150,000. Many include garages and outdoor spaces, ideal for long-term occupancy or family rentals.

Colonial or Vintage Apartments

Recoleta, San Telmo, and Palermo feature historic buildings with large windows, patios, and intricate details. Prices range from $100,000 to $250,000 depending on renovation level.

Fixer-Uppers

Many older units require modernization but offer purchase discounts of 20%–40%. Investors can add value through upgrades, increasing both rental yield and resale potential.

Rural Homes and Fincas

In provinces like Salta or San Juan, resale rural homes on small plots are available from $30,000, often including water rights and storage facilities. These appeal to those seeking self-sufficiency or agrotourism.

Legal Framework and Buyer Protections

Foreign Ownership

There are no restrictions on foreigners owning real estate in Argentina. Buyers can acquire residential or commercial property with the same rights as citizens, though some rural or border zones require additional clearance.

Due Diligence Process

Buyers should obtain a professional title report (“informe de dominio”) and debt certificate (“certificado de inhibiciones”) before purchase. Legal support ensures the seller has clear ownership and the property is free of liens or back taxes.

Transaction Process

• Reservation agreement (reserva) and 1%–2% deposit
• Preliminary agreement (boleto de compraventa) with 30% down
• Deed signing before a public notary (escribano) and full payment

Costs and Taxes

• Notary fees: 2%–4% of purchase price
• Stamp tax: 3.6% (often split between buyer and seller)
• Annual property tax: varies by province, typically low
• No capital controls for purchasing real estate in USD

Rental Regulations

Argentina introduced a rental law in 2020 requiring minimum 3-year leases and government-adjusted annual rent increases. However, many landlords prefer informal agreements or seasonal contracts. VelesClub Int. provides full compliance support for foreign owners.

Rental Income and Market Trends

Strong Urban Demand

University districts and business hubs in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Rosario have constant demand for mid-size rentals. Expats, students, and professionals seek furnished apartments close to amenities.

Short-Term Rental Opportunities

Despite some regulatory debate, short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb remain popular in Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and coastal cities. Renovated 1- and 2-bedroom units earn strong seasonal yields.

High Yields in Peso Terms

While local rent is paid in pesos, buyers who purchase in dollars benefit from favorable conversion and high return percentages—especially in informal or short-term rental segments.

Market Recovery and Appreciation

After a pandemic-related dip, property prices in Argentina are stabilizing. Political shifts and improved access to mortgages are expected to support demand and moderate appreciation in key areas.

How VelesClub Int. Helps Buyers of Resale Property in Argentina

• Curated listings in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mendoza, and Rosario
• Legal assistance for title search, contract drafting, and tax registration
• Support with bank transfers, fund structuring, and remote purchases
• Property management and rental strategy for income-focused buyers
• Renovation consulting and resale planning for value-add properties

Conclusion: Cultural Richness and Financial Advantage

Secondary real estate in Argentina offers an accessible path to homeownership or investment in one of South America’s most vibrant countries. From cosmopolitan Buenos Aires to wine valleys and coastal cities, resale properties combine lifestyle appeal with financial opportunity.

With no restrictions on foreign ownership, favorable USD pricing, and support from VelesClub Int., buyers can enter the Argentine market with confidence and strategy. For those seeking charm, culture, and high-yield potential, Argentina’s secondary market remains a standout destination.