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Real Estate in San Salvador, El Salvador | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Real Estate in San Salvador, El Salvador

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By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 03, 2024

Summary: The most desirable neighborhoods in San Salvador, El Salvador are Escalon, Santa Tecla, and Santa Elena. The average cost to buy a nice 2 bedroom home in these neighborhoods is around $150,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $200,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, stainless steel appliances, and updated bathrooms. Foreigners are allowed to own property in San Salvador, but there are certain restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to own land within 50 kilometers of the coast or within 10 kilometers of the border. The best way for an expat to search for a home to buy in San Salvador is to use a real estate agent. A real estate agent can help you find the right property for your needs and budget, and can also provide you with information about the local market and the legal requirements for purchasing a property.

How do I find a place to live in San Salvador?

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 San Salvador is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Encuentra24.com, Vivanuncios.com, and Encuentra24.sv are great resources for finding apartments, houses, and other rental properties in the area. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Additionally, you can also ask friends and family who live in the area for recommendations. Finally, you can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in San Salvador," remarked one member in San Salvador.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in San Salvador?

"Expat homes and apartments in San Salvador are typically modern and comfortable. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer a greater sense of security and privacy. These homes and apartments often feature spacious living areas, modern kitchens, and balconies with views of the city. Expats can also find furnished apartments with all the necessary amenities, such as air conditioning, cable TV, and internet access," said one person in San Salvador.

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What is the average cost of housing in San Salvador?

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

"The average cost of housing in San Salvador is relatively high compared to other cities in the country. Renting an apartment in the city center can cost anywhere from $400 to $1,000 per month, while a house in the suburbs can cost up to $2,000 per month. Prices vary depending on the size and location of the property," said one expat in San Salvador.

Should I buy or rent a home in San Salvador?

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

"Buying a home in San Salvador 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 the city, as well as the safety and security of the area. Renting a home in San Salvador can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to buying a home, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more affordable in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in San Salvador should be based on individual needs and preferences," explained one person living in San Salvador, El Salvador.

What do I need to know when buying property in San Salvador?

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

"When buying property in San Salvador, it is important to research the local laws and regulations regarding real estate transactions. It is also important to understand the local market and the current trends in the area. It is advisable to hire a local lawyer to help with the legal aspects of the purchase. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local taxes and fees associated with the purchase. Finally, it is important to ensure that the property is in good condition and that all necessary documents are in order before signing any contracts," explained one person living in San Salvador, El Salvador.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in San Salvador?

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

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in San Salvador. There are no specific restrictions on foreign property ownership in the country. However, foreigners may face some challenges when purchasing property, such as navigating the local legal system and ensuring proper documentation. It is recommended that foreigners seeking to purchase property in El Salvador consult with a local attorney or real estate agent to ensure a smooth transaction," said one person in San Salvador.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in San Salvador 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:

"In San Salvador, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Additionally, some properties may include a microwave, dishwasher, and air conditioning unit," explained one person living in San Salvador, El Salvador.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in San Salvador:

We asked foreigners in San Salvador 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 San Salvador often begin 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 may choose to work with a local real estate agent who is familiar with the area and can help them find a suitable home. Visiting neighborhoods in person and attending open houses can also be helpful in finding the perfect home. Networking with locals and other expats can lead to discovering rental opportunities that may not be advertised online," wrote one expat who made the move to San Salvador.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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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