Buying real estate in Argentina: An overview for foreign investors

Argentina is experiencing a dynamic upswing in the real estate sector—particularly due to the return of mortgage-backed financing (UVA loans) and a noticeable market revival in urban centers such as Buenos Aires. This opens up promising access for German investors to a lucrative real estate market with attractive entry prices, solid rental yields, and high potential for value appreciation.

But how exactly does buying real estate in Argentina work—and what do foreign buyers need to be aware of? The most important steps and pitfalls are explained below.

Table of content

1. Market analysis and location selection

2. Document review and legal due diligence

3. Argentine Tax Number (CDI)

4. Purchase offer (Reserva)

5. Preliminary contract (Boleto de Compraventa)

6. Notary appointment

7. Entry in the land registry

1. Market analysis and location selection

Before purchasing real estate, it is advisable to compare different neighborhoods and property segments. Popular locations in Buenos Aires include Recoleta, Palermo, Belgrano, and Caballito, which offer a good mix of appreciation potential, demand, and infrastructure.

Tip: The market in Argentina is heterogeneous. Micro-location analyses are crucial in order to exploit long-term development potential.

2. Document review and legal due diligence

Before making a purchase decision, the property must be thoroughly examined. Important points:

• Clear proof of ownership (Escritura / Título de propiedad)

• No encumbrances: no mortgages, debts, or restrictions on use

• Permitted use according to the municipal development plan

• Building and use permits for new buildings or rezoning

Pitfall: Some properties in Argentina were built in the informal sector or do not have all the necessary permits. A professional review is therefore essential.

3. Argentine Tax Number (CDI)

As a foreign buyer, you need an Argentine tax number (CDI – Clave de Identificación) to purchase a property. This can be applied for at the tax office (ARCA).

4. Purchase offer (Reserva)

Once you have found your dream property and completed the inspection, you sign a purchase offer and make a down payment. In Argentina, it is customary to pay 1–2% of the purchase price as a reservation fee (“Reserva”), which is deposited with the real estate agent.

5. Preliminary contract (Boleto de Compraventa)

Once an agreement has been reached, a binding preliminary purchase agreement is concluded. A larger portion of the purchase price (usually 30%) is paid at this stage. The final notary appointment is arranged

Pitfall: If the preliminary contract is signed without thorough review, it is very difficult to withdraw from the agreement. Furthermore, the repayment of amounts already paid is not guaranteed.

Note: For reasons to be discussed, we advise against this step, especially for inexperienced buyers, and recommend taking this into account when selecting a property.

6. Notary appointment

The final purchase is completed at an Argentine notary (Escribano Público). The notary draws up the notarized purchase agreement (Escritura Pública), certifies the transfer of ownership, and registers it with the land registry office.

7. Entry in the land registry

After notarization, the new owner is officially entered in the Registro de la Propiedad Inmueble.

What is particularly important for European buyers?

• Payment in USD: The purchase of an existing property in Argentina is almost always made in US dollars. Investors from the euro zone benefit from the current weakness of the dollar.

  
  

• Payment method: “Cash is king” is the motto. However, for various reasons, we advise against entering Argentina with large amounts of cash! The use of financial intermediaries who provide you with cash on site should also only be recommended with great caution and care.

We advise all non-local buyers to use bank transfers exclusively! Contact us to learn more about secure and transparent payment methods, which you should already consider when selecting properties.

• No mortgages for foreigners: Real estate purchases are usually made without external financing, unless the buyer is a resident of Argentina.

• Additional purchase costs: These vary depending on the negotiation and are around 6–9%, including notary fees, taxes, brokerage fees, etc.

• No purchase restrictions for foreigners: Even without residency, any foreigner can purchase real estate in Argentina.

Conclusion: Anyone who buys without in-depth market knowledge or legal support is taking considerable risks. With a trustworthy local partner at your side, however, the purchase will not only be secure, but also efficient and lucrative.

What Argentis Invest can do for you:

A competent broker in Argentina is essential for a smooth and secure transaction. Argentis Invest supports you with the following services, among others:

• Preselection of suitable properties according to your individual investor profile

• Application for a tax number

• Conducting viewings with you on site or via video and immersive interactive 360-degree tours

• Legal and technical review of all documents

• Sales negotiations

• Coordination with brokers, notaries, and authorities

• Accompaniment or representation before the notary

Would you like to invest in Argentina?

We would be happy to accompany you personally through the entire purchase process—with security, transparency, and local market knowledge. Contact us without obligation!