Buenos Aires Real Estate

A seeming contradiction, what goes on beneath the streets may be more valuable than that which occurs above. While it sounds strange at first, it isn´t difficult to realize that the neighborhoods which are blessed with the presence of the subway usually see higher traffic, thus making them more profitable.

While this is obviously the case with businesses, properties also reap the benefits of the increased traffic, among other things. In fact, the property values in well connected neighborhoods are often 10 – 15% higher than if they weren´t so well connected. This is becoming especially apparent as MetroVias continues to expand its network, connecting neighborhoods that were once overlooked to the masses.

With the comfort of traveling to and from the city center also comes a higher demand for properties; meanwhile, the prices that saw some flux and adjustment at the end of last year are also expected to stablize and maintain their value, according to specialists.

Subway Line A, for example, brings much value to the neighborhood of Flores. Subway presence is always a key factor when deciding on a neighborhood in which to purchase a property, and this western neighborhood is no different. In fact, many businesses even positioned themselves around Plaza Flores in anticipation of the new station. And business was booming for realtors, as well, as there was a high level of growth for units from studios to three-bedrooms.

The interested buyers tend to be young couples and families, as well as professionals who are looking to set up their offices or studios. With the subway, it´s not necessary to be smack-dab in the center of town; that accessibility is still there.

While Rivadavia is the main artery of the area, most people look to buy on parallel or cross-streets, so they can be close to the activity without being immersed in it all the time. Yes, it may be convenient to be located on such a busy street, but that convenience also brings higher levels of noise and pollution.

Another line that has proven its importance is Line H, which brings growth opportunities to neighborhoods such as Boedo and San Cristóbal. And if you are located around Jujuy Avenue, traveling to the city center is a simple matter of taking Line A and Line E.

While many of these nighborhoods may have much in common in terms of recent growth, the prices of properties still varies depending on the neighborhood. The Buenos Aires real estate market in Caballito, for example, can run between USD 1650 and USD 1700 per m2. Flores, meanwhile, tends to be around USD 1500 per m2, even though it is right next door to Caballito. Even lower prices can be found in Boedo and San Cristóbal. And many brokers offer payment plans to buyers, which can make the purchase of a new home much more attainable.

Used apartments must also adjust their prices in relation to the brand new units. There must be a balance of the two, so that neither gets pushed out of the market.

And while public transportation is a huge asset when renting (or buying), there are many other factors to keep in mind, as usual: amenities, location, gym, pool, security, etc.

Commercially speaking, there are not an abundance of lots waiting for new buildings to be built. And there is a healthy level of demand, with most rentals being occupied about 90% of the time.

So while all amenities and normal key factors are important when looking for a place to buy or rent, transportation and accessibility proves itself to be a major consideration, time and time again.