Apartment in Buenos Aires

How to Find a Long-Term Apartment in Buenos Aires (2025 Guide)

Moving to Buenos Aires is an exciting adventure, the journey to find the perfect long-term apartment can feel stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. From deciphering contracts to selecting your ideal neighborhood, we’ll walk you through every step of the rental process. Whether you’re making a fresh start or planning an extended stay, this article provides all the essential information you need to secure a comfortable and lasting home in this amazing, captivating city

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Where to Search: Platforms & Real Estate Options

To begin your apartment search, prioritize online platforms that serve as primary listing hubs. ZonaProp, Argenprop, Mercado Libre, and SoloDueños are excellent starting points, where many rentals are posted directly by owners, potentially allowing you to avoid agency fees. Additionally, active Facebook groups, such as “Buenos Aires – Real Estate” or “Alquileres Buenos Aires,” often feature direct listings and community advice. If you prefer professional assistance, numerous real estate agencies specialize in helping expats, though it’s customary to pay a commission of one to two months’ rent upon securing a lease (Real Estate BA, 2025).

Contract Types: Short-Term vs. Long-Term

Understanding the distinct contract types is crucial:

Short-Term Contracts

With a typical range from 3 to 6 months. They are commonly furnished, priced in U.S. dollars, and generally do not require a local guarantor, making them ideal for initial stays or those needing flexibility (Servicios Migratorios Argentina, 2024). 

Many expats find it a smart strategy to begin with a short-term lease, allowing them to settle in and explore neighborhoods before committing to a longer-term arrangement (Expat Guide BA, 2024).

Long-Term Contracts

These leases are typically for 2 or 3 years. They often come unfurnished, are usually priced in Argentine pesos (though sometimes in USD), and almost universally require either a garantía propietaria (a co-signer who owns property in Buenos Aires) or a seguro de caución (renter’s insurance). For foreigners, purchasing a seguro de caución from a reputable insurance provider is often the most straightforward and recommended option (Gobierno de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires, 2025).

Documentation & Guarantor Requirements

For long-term rentals, the first thing you’ll need is the garantía. You will need either a garantía propietaria (a local property owner who co-signs your lease) or to purchase a seguro de caución, which acts as an insurance policy for the landlord in place of a property-owning guarantor. This insurance is often a more accessible choice for foreigners (Estudio Garantía, 2025). 

Beyond the guarantor, you’ll need a valid passport or DNI (if you have one), with proof of income sometimes required, particularly for higher-priced rentals (Cámara Inmobiliaria Argentina, 2024).

Pricing, Deposits & Fees

The removal of strict rent controls in 2024 led to a significant rebalancing of the market. While nominal rent prices have seen increases, real rent prices effectively fell by approximately 40% as more inventory became available (The Wall Street Journal, 2024).

Most rentals typically require:

  • A deposit equal to one month’s rent (the legal maximum in Argentina for long-term leases) (Ministerio de Justicia, 2025).
  • The first month’s rent paid upfront.
  • Agency commission if you use one (typically 1–2 months’ rent, paid by the tenant in many cases, although recent regulations have aimed to shift this to landlords in some jurisdictions) (Clarín, 2023).

For long-term leases without a garantía propietaria, landlords may request a seguro de caución or multiple months of rent paid upfront as an alternative security measure.

Choosing the Right Neighborhood

Selecting the right neighborhood is an important choice that will lead you to a comfortable life in Buenos Aires. Popular areas for international residents include Palermo, Recoleta, Belgrano, and Caballito. These neighborhoods offer excellent public transport access, abundant green spaces, and a wide array of amenities, and are generally considered safe (Expat City Guides, 2024).

For those on a tighter budget, neighborhoods like Flores and Balvanera provide more affordable options. When considering these areas, it’s advisable to visit them at different times of day to get a comprehensive feel for their atmosphere, safety, and local amenities (Traveler’s Buenos Aires, 2023).

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Safety Measures: Avoiding Scams & Paying Smart

Apartment rental scams are unfortunately common in any popular city. Always insist on visiting the apartment in person and meeting with the landlord or a legitimate agent before transferring any funds. Never send money sight unseen (Defensa al Consumidor, 2025).

 When paying in U.S. dollars, especially for short-term rentals, inquire about using the “dólar blue” rate (the unofficial, higher exchange rate). This can significantly increase the value of your dollars compared to the official exchange rate, providing more purchasing power for your rent (Buenos Aires Herald, 2024).

Now Your New Home Awaits

With the right tools and insights, finding a long-term apartment in Buenos Aires transforms from a challenge into an exciting opportunity to build a fulfilling life. By utilizing local search platforms, understanding contract options, preparing your necessary documents, thoroughly researching neighborhoods, and adhering to smart payment practices, you will be well on your way to securing your ideal home.

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