Welcome to Latin America, the region that includes South America, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean islands where romance languages are spoken.

The region includes over 20 countries, each with a unique lifestyle, cuisine, and climate. Here’s a list of top Latin American countries for digital nomads

Moving to Latin America can be an exciting journey. However, settling into a new country comes with challenges, especially when finding a home that meets your needs and budget. Below is a checklist to guide you in your Latin American house-hunting journey so you can focus on making the most of your adventure.

Checklist for finding the right apartment

Budget

Your budget is the foundation of your house-hunting process. In Latin America, rental prices vary greatly between countries and cities. For instance, rent in Mexico City might be higher than in smaller cities like Medellín, Colombia.

• Set a realistic budget: Factor in rent, utilities (water, petrol, electricity), maintenance fees, and other living costs.
• Currency fluctuations: Exchange rates fluctuate, which can impact your overall monthly expenses.

Also read: Seven proven hacks to slash accommodation costs while travelling

Location

Choosing the right location is crucial for a safe and comfortable stay. Here are key things to consider:

• Safety: Research crime rates and read neighbourhood reviews. Stick to areas known for safety, especially if you’re new to the country.
• Proximity to essentials: Look for housing near essentials like grocery stores, hospitals, and public transportation.
• Latin America offers a range of property types, from houses to apartments, each with unique benefits:
• Commute: Consider the proximity to public transportation like buses and trains. If you’ll be driving, familiarise yourself with the traffic rules in the area.

Property type

• Apartments: Ideal for city dwellers who prefer compact, easy-to-maintain spaces.
• Houses: Perfect for those seeking more space
• Studios: Great for single occupants or minimalists who prefer smaller, more affordable spaces.

Lease terms

Understanding your lease terms is crucial for avoiding misunderstandings and ensuring a smooth rental experience:

• Length of stay: Leases in Latin America vary from short-term (monthly) to long-term (yearly) agreements. Make sure your lease aligns with your plans.
• Deposit and fees: Most landlords require a security deposit, which can range from one to three months’ rent. Check if utilities are included in the lease.
• Legal considerations: Review the contract carefully and, if possible, have it translated or reviewed by a local attorney to ensure compliance with local rental laws.

Utilities and services

Utilities and services may not always be included in the rent, and costs vary by location:

• Water and electricity: Some areas  especially in rural regions, experience sporadic power outages,. Ask if the apartment has a backup generator or water tank.
• Internet: Reliable internet is essential, especially for remote workers. Check with the landlord about connection options and providers.
• Gas: In some parts of Latin America, gas is supplied via external tanks, which need to be refilled periodically. Ask if this will be your responsibility.

Furniture and appliances

Consider whether you’d prefer a furnished or unfurnished property:

• Furnished: Many expats prefer furnished apartments for convenience, as they come with basic furniture and appliances like a bed, couch, and kitchenware.
• Unfurnished: Often cheaper than furnished options, but factor in the cost of buying essentials like a bed, refrigerator, and stove.

Finding an apartment in Latin America

Online marketplaces

Online platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com are are good starting points to browse rental options, compare prices, and gather information.

Social media groups

Joining expat and local social media communities can provide helpful insights and recommendations from people who’ve gone through similar experiences.

Word of mouth

Networking is a powerful tool in Latin America, where community and personal connections are highly valued.

• Ask locals or fellow digital nomads: Recommendations from people you trust can help you find hidden gems not advertised online.
• Network through work or community events: Social events can open doors to trusted local connections, and you might even find someone who’s moving and looking to sublet.

Real estate agents

A local real estate agent can help you navigate the rental market, understand legal requirements, and negotiate with landlords.

• Choose an agent who speaks English: If you’re not fluent in the local language, find an agent who speaks your language to avoid communication barriers.
• Negotiate fees: Agent fees can range from half to a full month’s rent, so confirm fees before signing a contract.

Additional tips

Language barriers

While some locals in major cities speak English, having a basic knowledge of Spanish (or Portuguese in Brazil) can make your search smoother.

• Learn key phrases: Knowing terms like “alquiler” (rent) or “costo adicional” (additional cost) can help you in negotiations.
• Translation apps: Use apps like Google Translate for quick help during conversations or when reading contracts.

Cultural differences

Respecting cultural norms is essential for a positive experience in any Latin American country.

• Punctuality: In many Latin American countries, schedules are more relaxed, so expect some flexibility around meeting times.
• Politeness: Greetings are important, so start every conversation with a friendly “Hola” (Hello) or “Buenas” (Good morning/afternoon).

Security

Safety should always be a priority when choosing your new home:

• Research neighbourhoods: Online forums, groups, and locals can provide insights into safe areas.
• Secure property features: Look for properties with good locks, secure windows, and, if possible, a gated entry.

Emergency contacts

It’s always wise to have a list of emergency contacts on hand:

• Local emergency numbers: Every country has its own numbers for police, fire, and medical emergencies.
• Embassy contact: Register with your country’s embassy and keep their contact details handy.

Finding a home in Latin America is a unique and rewarding experience, but having a checklist can make the process smoother.

And remember, Grey makes it easy to handle cross-border payments and conversions. Open your account today and enjoy a seamless financial experience regardless of the Latin American country you choose to settle in.

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