Renting a Home in Buenos Aires: What You Need to Know in 2025

Whether you're moving to Buenos Aires for work, study, or a long stay, understanding how the rental system works is essential. With recent legal changes and varying contract types, it’s important to know what kind of rental fits your needs—and what rules apply. Here’s a complete, up-to-date guide to renting a home in Argentina’s vibrant capital.

Rental Laws: What Rules Apply and When?

Rental Laws: What Rules Apply and When?
Rental contracts in Buenos Aires are governed by different legal frameworks depending on when the contract was signed. Here's a breakdown:

⚖️Contracts Signed Between July 1, 2020 and October 17, 2023

• Law: 27.551 (2020)

• Minimum Term: 3 years

• Rent Adjustments: Once a year

• Adjustment Index: ICL (combines inflation + wage variation)

• Currency: Argentine pesos

• Early Termination: Allowed after 6 months with a penalty

⚖️Contracts Signed Between October 18, 2023 and December 28, 2023

• Law: Amended by Law 27.737

• Minimum Term: 3 years

• Rent Adjustments: Every 6 months

• Adjustment Index: “Casa Propia” index (based on inflation or wages, whichever is lower)

• Currency: Argentine pesos

• Early Termination: Allowed after 6 months with a penalty

⚖️Contracts Signed From December 29, 2023 Onward

• Law: Decree DNU 70/2023

• Minimum Term: No legal minimum; freely agreed between parties

• Rent Adjustments: Freely agreed; typically every 3–4 months

• Adjustment Index: Freely chosen; often based on official inflation (IPC)

• Currency: Pesos or U.S. dollars (as negotiated)

• Early Termination: As per contract agreement

Important: Existing contracts continue to follow the rules in place at the time of signing.

Types of Rentals in Buenos Aires

1. Traditional Rentals (Alquiler Permanente)

These are long-term leases intended for residents.

• Furnishing: Usually unfurnished

• Ideal For: Locals, long-term expats, or families

• Availability: Through real estate agents and property platforms

• Contract Duration: Varies based on the signing date (see above)

2. Temporary Rentals (Alquiler Temporario)

Short- or medium-term rentals, usually furnished and ready to move in.

• Duration: 1 to 6 months (sometimes longer)

• Furnishing: Fully furnished with internet, utilities included

• Ideal For: Tourists, digital nomads, business travelers

• Availability: Airbnb, Booking, specialized agencies

3. Short-Term Private Agreements

Sometimes landlords and tenants agree on 3–12 month informal leases, especially for students or foreigners.

• Not always covered by official regulations

• Highly negotiable but lower legal protection

Common Rental Requirements

Regardless of the rental type, most landlords will ask for:

• Valid ID or passport

• Proof of income (job contract, bank statements)

• Security deposit (usually 1 month’s rent)

• First month’s rent in advance

• Guarantor (Garante) – a local property owner. If unavailable, you can use:

  • A rental guarantee insurance (seguro de caución)

  • Higher deposit or prepayment (negotiable)

Practical Tips for Renters

• Check the contract signing date to understand what legal framework applies.

• Negotiate freely under the current law (for contracts signed after Dec 29, 2023).

• Confirm who pays the commission—this can vary depending on location and type of contract.

• Avoid scams by using trusted real estate agencies or verified listings.

• Visit in person or ask for a virtual tour before committing, especially for longer contracts.

Where to Find Rentals

• Temporary Rentals: Airbnb, Booking.com, AlquilerArgentina, real estate agencies

• Long-Term Rentals: Zonaprop, Argenprop, MercadoLibre Inmuebles, local inmobiliarias

• Student Housing: UBA housing resources, Facebook groups, or student residences

Final Thoughts

The Buenos Aires rental market is flexible and dynamic, but also subject to legal shifts that affect contract terms. Whether you’re staying for a few months or settling down for years, understanding the current legal landscape will help you make better, safer decisions when finding your next home in the city.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Users are responsible for verifying the accuracy and applicability of the information to their specific situation.

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