BuySellBA
Administrator
The double life in Argentina: the rise of second homes as escapes and safe havens - Ámbito Financiero
Source:
https://www.ambito.com/real-estate/...nda-casa-como-escape-y-refugio-valor-n6162000
July 03, 2025
New priorities guide the search for homes in rural and coastal areas. An analysis of locations, prices, and sought-after areas.
By: José Luis Cieri
The search for a second home: a decision that redefines the future
The Argentine real estate market is undergoing a period of transformation , and the improvement that emerged from the crisis years between late 2018 and 2023 is consolidating. The concept of a second home, previously associated exclusively with seasonal leisure , is now emerging as a strategic decision driven by a mix of new work dynamics, the revaluation of contact with nature, and the search for a safeguard of heritage value.
The segment confirmed that demand is expanding toward rural and coastal environments, and these preferences outlined a new map of preferences in the country.
This change isn't a sporadic trend; it's become a well-established reality. Gonzalo Sánchez Zinny , general manager of Ayres Desarrollos Inmobiliarios, explained the essence of this phenomenon: "Today, young families, couples in the process of raising children, independent professionals, as well as older adults seeking quality of life and a place to gather with family, are choosing rural and country settings as second homes, with the real possibility of making it their primary residence in the medium term."
The appeal lies not only in the possibility of a weekend getaway, but also in the prospect of a more permanent lifestyle, far from the frenetic pace of big cities. These second homes can even often become first homes in the future.
The awakening of the near countryside: towards the south and north
Proximity to Buenos Aires City (CABA) stands out as a key factor for those seeking this type of property. Locations such as the Brandsen district or the northern area near La Plata, Capilla del Señor, or Los Cardales (both in the Exaltación de la Cruz district), located within a reasonable distance, emerge as options with a highly competitive price-performance ratio. They offer vast green spaces, a relaxed pace of life, and an infrastructure that, while still developing, already provides essential services for everyday life.
Ayres Cardales, 70 km from Buenos Aires
The Ayres Cardales project, promoted by Ayres Desarrollos Inmobiliarios, exemplifies this trend. It offers lots starting at 2,500 m2, with prices starting at US$90,000, depending on location and surface area. With an average price per square meter of between US$45 and US$48, it presents an opportunity for an "early entry" in an expanding area.
Sánchez Zinny emphasized that 50% of its spaces are green and communal, creating "a unique, low-density environment." Direct financing, with a 30% to 40% down payment and the balance in 24 or even 30 installments in dollars or pesos (adjustable by the CAC index), facilitates access to this type of investment.
Uriel Broitman , commercial manager at Sygsa, delved into the profile of these buyers: "Today we see sustained demand from individuals and families looking for a second home in rural settings, residing in large cities, and who value contact with nature, silence, and the outdoors." According to his analysis, these people are looking for a change of pace in their daily lives, a balance between modern comfort and a more natural and conscious lifestyle.
La Amelia, also close to the Exaltation of the Cross district
La Amelia, with lots starting at 1,500 m2, is well-connected and within easy reach of Buenos Aires City. Its natural surroundings, rural atmosphere, and proximity to established towns such as Capilla del Señor, Campana, Zárate, and Pilar make it an attractive destination. Lots are currently being sold starting at US$25,000 (in a limited-time pre-sale phase), a very attractive option for investors seeking short- and medium-term results, according to Broitman. The combination of quality of life, accessibility, and projected appreciation positions the area with great potential.
Interest in homes in areas near La Plata, such as City Bell, Gorina, Gonnet, and the Route 2 corridor between the provincial capital and Brandsen, is experiencing significant growth. Dolores Otero Rossi , director of Inmobiliaria Otero Rossi CB, stated that prices for homes with more than two rooms start at US$400,000, in gated communities (with premium amenities), and street-facing homes in well-located areas with all amenities start at US$180,000.
Buyers primarily seek security, privacy, and amenities such as green spaces or swimming pools. They also prioritize modern, functional homes with spacious interiors, fully equipped kitchens and bathrooms, efficient heating and cooling systems, and private pools. There is growing interest in spaces suitable for teleworking, reflecting emerging residential needs.
"We've also noticed sustained demand for apartment complexes in the ABC 1 segment, particularly in the City Bell and Gonnet areas. These developments are characterized by their quality construction, amenities, and the fact that they're safer than homes. They have security systems: cameras in the buildings, 24-hour monitoring, and constant circulation among neighbors," Otero Rossi added.
A kitchen with an island in a project located in City Bell, in the La Plata district
On the other hand, City Bell is targeting the construction of commercial and office space in new expansion areas. The town's growth is notable, and we see it consolidating and growing steadily.
The appeal of the Atlantic Coast
For second homes, the Atlantic Coast maintains its undisputed leadership. Towns like Mar del Plata remain a preferred destination. The "Happy City" offers a combination of beach and established urban living, with a vast real estate offering ranging from small apartments to spacious villas, adapting to diverse budgets and needs. There, used two-bedroom apartments start at US$48,000 and up (ideal for renovating), and those less than 15 years old exceed US$75,000.
As for homes, the best ones are located in the south of the city, and to the north (Santa Clara del Mar), the Constitución and Chauvín neighborhoods, which have been renovated and transformed into the "SoHo of Mar del Plata" thanks to its new developments and its culinary and cultural offerings. These homes cost over $150,000.
The Constitución neighborhood, expanding in Mar del Plata
The diversity of its market, which includes properties for both short-term and long-term rentals, gives it a competitive advantage, according to experts in the segment.
However, the focus is expanding to new coastal models. Juan Bilotto , CEO of Corredor Los Lagos, highlighted the success of developments like Costa Esmeralda and its commitment to comprehensive experiences. "This development in the Partido de la Costa region has become the ideal meeting point for families and groups who value a lifestyle that combines nature, beach, sports, and comfort," explained Bilotto. These complexes not only offer a place to live, but also an active community and a full range of services.
Priority is placed on nature, sports (with golf courses and golf), the beach, gastronomy, and the community. In addition to the traditional infrastructure—security, green spaces, and access—there are also sports clubs and exclusive beachfront resorts. Prices for inland lots start at US$45,000 and can exceed US$350,000 for premium beachfront lots, with prices varying depending on location, orientation, and proximity to amenities or the beach.
Costa Esmeralda attracts attention for those who want to have their second home
The success of this model is driving new proposals. Costa Dunas, a new project developed by Eidico, also within the Los Lagos Corridor, offers lots starting at US$50,000, with an attractive financing option: a 30% down payment and the balance in installments in pesos, adjusted by the CAC index, over almost three years. This financing scheme opens the door to a broader segment of buyers looking to invest on the coast.
The rural and coastal second home phenomenon transcends the mere purchase of a property. As Sánchez Zinny concluded: "It's no longer a luxury or a weekend fantasy. Today it's a lifestyle choice, a way to reconnect with what's essential, without isolating oneself from the modern world. It's the next great destination for those looking for more than a home: they're looking for a way of life."
www.buysellba.com
