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Real Estate in Lima, Peru | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Lima, Peru

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 04, 2023

Summary: The most desirable neighborhoods in Lima, Peru are Miraflores, San Isidro, Barranco, and La Molina. The average cost to buy a nice 2 bedroom home in Lima is around $200,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $300,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and security systems. Foreigners are allowed to own property in Lima, but there are certain restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to own land within 50 kilometers of the coast or 100 kilometers of the border. When searching for a home to buy in Lima, it is important to research the area and the local market. It is also important to work with a reputable real estate agent who can help you find the right property for your needs. Additionally, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area and the availability of amenities.

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How do I find a place to live in Lima?

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

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Lima is to use online resources such as websites and social media. Websites such as Craigslist, Expat.com, and EasyRoommate are great for finding rental listings in Lima. Additionally, social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter can be used to search for rental listings in Lima. Additionally, there are many real estate agents in Lima who can help you find a place to live. Finally, it is also possible to find a place to live by asking around in the local community," said one expat who made the move to Lima.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Lima?

"Expat homes and apartments in Lima are typically modern and comfortable, with amenities such as air conditioning, cable television, and internet access. Many expat homes and apartments are located in the upscale neighborhoods of San Isidro and Miraflores, which offer a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Expat homes and apartments in Lima often have access to private pools, gyms, and other recreational facilities. Additionally, many expat homes and apartments come with a full-time housekeeper and security guard," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Lima.

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What is the average cost of housing in Lima?

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

"The cost of housing in Lima varies depending on the area and type of accommodation. Generally, renting an apartment in the city center can cost between $400 and $1,000 per month, while renting a house in the suburbs can cost between $200 and $600 per month. Prices for furnished apartments tend to be higher than for unfurnished apartments," said one person in Lima.

Should I buy or rent a home in Lima?

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

"Buying a home in Lima can be a great investment, as the city is growing rapidly and property values are increasing. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Lima, as well as the cost of purchasing a home. Renting a home in Lima can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to live in the city without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility if you are unsure of how long you will be living in Lima. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Lima should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," remarked one member in Lima.

"I rented a house (Miraflores) for the first year from a gringo who actually took a USA check for the years rent. I also bought his car and sold it 6 years later for the same price. I bought a Penthouse apartment overlooking the Pacific (for a song)on my tourist visa with only $500.00 deposit and a photocopy of my passport," explained one expat living in Lima, Peru.

What do I need to know when buying property in Lima?

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

"When buying property in Lima, it is important to research the local market and familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations governing real estate transactions. It is also important to hire a reputable lawyer to help you navigate the legal process and ensure that all documents are in order. Additionally, it is important to consider the location of the property and the surrounding area, as well as the condition of the property and any potential renovations that may be necessary. Finally, it is important to understand the taxes and fees associated with the purchase of the property," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Lima.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Lima?

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

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Lima. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of real estate in the country, which means that non-Peruvian citizens can purchase and hold property in their name. However, it is essential for foreigners to obtain a tax identification number, known as a "Carnet de Extranjería," to complete the property purchase process. Additionally, it is recommended to work with a local attorney and real estate agent to navigate the legal and bureaucratic procedures involved in buying property in Lima," explained one foreigner living in Lima, Peru.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Lima 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 Lima typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and dryer. Additionally, some properties may include a microwave, dishwasher, and air conditioning unit," explained one expat in Lima.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Lima:

We asked foreigners in Lima 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 searching for homes in Lima often start by browsing online real estate websites and local classifieds to get an idea of the housing market. They may also join expat forums and social media groups to seek advice and recommendations from fellow expats who have already gone through the process. Additionally, expats can reach out to local real estate agents who are familiar with the area and can help them find a suitable home. Word of mouth is another useful way to find housing, as friends, colleagues, or acquaintances may know of available properties. Finally, some expats may choose to visit neighborhoods in person to explore the area and look for rental signs or contact property management companies directly," said one expat in Lima.

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.

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