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La Brava Beach in Punta del Este, Uruguay

Real Estate in Punta del Este, Uruguay

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 05, 2023

Summary: The most desirable neighborhoods in Punta del Este, Uruguay are La Barra, Punta Ballena, and La Mansa. The average cost to buy a nice 2 bedroom home in Punta del Este is around $400,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $500,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, a swimming pool, and a terrace. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Punta del Este, however, they must obtain a visa and register with the local government. The best way for an expat to search for a home to buy in Punta del Este is to use a real estate agent or search online. There are many websites that list properties for sale in the area, and it is also possible to find properties through word of mouth.

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How do I find a place to live in Punta del Este?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Looked for an area with natural beauty, reasonable taxes, and slightly off the beaten path....," said one person in Punta Del Este.

"We searched Punta del Este from one side to the other. We decided that we wanted to live in Punta for 6 months a year or longer and that meant a house versus an apartment since many of the apartment buildings are unoccupied 8 months of the year. We also decided that we would build a house as opposed to finding one. We wanted bigger rooms, more bathrooms and fewer bedrooms than is conventional. The difference being that we were not looking to rent the house," said one expat who made the move to Punta del Este.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Punta del Este?

"Expat homes and apartments in Punta del Este are typically modern and luxurious, with many featuring stunning views of the ocean. Most homes and apartments come with amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and modern appliances. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer additional security and privacy. Expat homes and apartments in Punta del Este are typically spacious and well-maintained, making them ideal for those looking for a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Punta del Este.

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What is the average cost of housing in Punta del Este?

If you are thinking about moving to Punta del Este, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of all utilities is higher than in the United States. Real estate taxes are much less. Buying a car is much much more expensive because of the import tax but the import tax seems to stay with the car so the retained value is high. Gasoline is the same as in Europe which is high compared to the U.S. And Punta in general is not cheap. The reason to live in Punta del Este is because it is a good way to live, that is, the food is fresh, the air and water are clean, it is beautiful, the beaches are wonderful, the people are welcoming, and you can live as you cannot in Europe or the U.S. any longer. What I mean is that the cost of help is affordable. People services are available and affordable, whether that is having your clothes tailored, going to the doctor/dentist, finding a gardener, a chef, cleaning services . . . You can afford to live well and the people providing the services are ahppy to do it. There is no class struggle in Uruguay," said one person in Punta del Este.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Punta del Este?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Punta del Este, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Punta del Este can be a great investment. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxury real estate. Renting a home in Punta del Este can also be a great option, as it allows you to enjoy the city without the commitment of buying a home. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Punta del Este should be based on your individual needs and preferences," said one expat in Punta del Este.

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What do I need to know when buying property in Punta del Este?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Punta del Este, they said:

"1. It is important to research the local market and understand the current trends in the area before making a purchase. 2. It is important to understand the legal requirements for purchasing property in Uruguay, including the need for a local lawyer to assist with the process. 3. It is important to understand the local tax laws and regulations, as well as any restrictions on foreign ownership of property. 4. It is important to understand the local infrastructure and amenities, such as access to public transportation, schools, and healthcare. 5. It is important to understand the local climate and weather patterns, as well as any potential natural disasters that could affect the property. 6. It is important to understand the local culture and customs, as well as any potential language barriers. 7. It is important to understand the local banking system and any restrictions on foreign currency transactions. 8. It is important to understand the local rental market and any potential rental income that could be generated from the property," said one in Punta del Este.

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Are foreigners allowed to own property in Punta del Este?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Punta del Este, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Punta del Este. The Uruguayan government has made it relatively easy for foreigners to purchase property in the country. Foreigners are able to purchase property in their own name, without the need for a local partner or representative. The process is relatively straightforward and involves obtaining a visa, registering with the local tax office, and obtaining a title deed. Additionally, foreign investors are able to purchase property through a Uruguayan company, which can provide additional tax benefits," said one in Punta del Este.

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What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Punta del Este what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Punta del Este typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Some properties may also include a dishwasher, microwave, and other small kitchen appliances. Additionally, air conditioning and heating are often included in rental properties," explained one person living in Punta del Este, Uruguay.

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Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Punta del Este:

We asked foreigners in Punta del Este what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats can search for homes in Punta del Este by looking online for real estate listings, contacting local real estate agents, and searching for rental listings on websites such as Airbnb. Additionally, expats can look for housing options by networking with other expats in the area, asking for recommendations from friends and family, and attending local expat events," explained one expat in Punta del Este.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

La Brava Beach in Punta del Este, Uruguay

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