Real Estate Sales Questions before buying a property: what to consider and the details you shouldn't overlook to avoid problems - Infobae

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Questions before buying a property: what to consider and the details you shouldn't overlook to avoid problems - Infobae




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Dudas antes de comprar una propiedad: qué se debe valorar y los detalles que no hay que dejar pasar para evitar problemas

En un contexto de valores de oportunidad y con una amplia oferta de viviendas en venta en CABA, sobre todo departamentos, los compradores deben analizan todo antes de decidir. Los aspectos que pueden aumentar o reducir el valor de una vivienda

www.infobae.com

March 21, 2025



In a context of affordable prices and with a wide range of homes for sale in Buenos Aires, especially apartments, buyers should analyze everything before deciding. The factors that can increase or decrease the value of a home



By Jose Luis Cieri

A couple argues and tries to reach an agreement. Uncertainties when choosing a property are common: location, condition, and cost can determine the final decision (Illustrative Image: Infobae)





In a market with more than 100,000 properties listed in Buenos Aires ( a number that has dropped from its peak three years ago ), buyers analyze multiple factors before making a decision. Brightness, location, and spaciousness are among the most valued, while humidity, nearby construction, and high utility bills generate caution and hesitation.



What factors influence appraisal and selection based on the buyer's profile? Buying a property involves evaluating multiple variables, from location to construction details.

Sebastián Sacca , CEO and auctioneer of Sacca Real Estate, noted that preferences vary depending on the buyer's profile. "Younger buyers without children prioritize low noise levels, proximity to transportation, and affordable expenses. Families, on the other hand, seek security, proximity to schools, and spaciousness," he explained.



As Infobae reported, repairing or renovating a home before selling it is advisable . A renovation in the kitchen, bathroom, or living room can increase its listed value by up to 15%.

Most valued items​

• Good lighting. Natural light is key. Apartments in towers are highly sought after due to their greater light penetration, while units on the ground or first floors may take longer to sell. "The orientation influences the decision even before a viewing is scheduled," Sacca said.
• Location and connectivity. Proximity to transportation is a determining factor, especially for families with teenage children. Furthermore, living in neighborhoods with good service infrastructure adds value to a property.
• Construction quality. In mid- and high-priced properties, materials and finishes take on special importance. Buyers look for solid buildings that guarantee durability.

Safety and proximity to transportation are key factors when choosing a home when buying (Illustrative Image Infobae)

• Open view and orientation. A clear view, especially of green spaces or the river, influences the purchasing decision. Northeast, east, and north orientations are the most sought after, as they guarantee light throughout the day.
• Security. For families with children or older adults, living in safe areas is a priority. In premium properties, buyers are even willing to pay higher fees in exchange for 24-hour security.
• Spacious living spaces: The trend toward larger families sharing bedrooms has made generous living spaces a key consideration when evaluating a home. In many cases, buyers opt for homes with the ability to expand or reconfigure spaces to accommodate future changes in the household composition.

Items that generate rejection​

• Dampness, leaks, and cracks. These are buyers' main concerns. If there are widespread dampness problems, it's advisable to repair them before selling. If there's a specific stain, leaving it visible conveys transparency.
• Top floor. Apartments on the top floor can present problems with leaks, especially if they have a pool or multipurpose room above them. Fear of noise and future complications impacts demand.
• Nearby construction projects. Construction on the same block has raised concerns about noise, dust, and disruptions for years. However, Sacca clarified that "in the future, a completed project could enhance the area's value."
• Neighboring schools. While these may be a plus for some families, the noise and traffic during arrival and departure times put many buyers off.

Moisture damage or structural problems can scare away potential buyers.

• Shared parking space: The lack of a permanent garage and the obligation to leave keys with other residents can discourage purchases in buildings without organized parking.

How prices are determined​

Every appraisal starts with location, but more than 40 factors influence the final value. “Safety is key in the premium segment, while in low-priced properties, expenses are decisive,” explains Sacca.



Values in the premium segment:

• 1 bedroom: between USD 180,000 and USD 250,000.
• 2 bedrooms: between USD 250,000 and USD 500,000.
• 3 bedrooms: from USD 500,000 onwards.

Values in the middle and low segment:

• 1 bedroom: between USD 90,000 and USD 140,000.
• 2 bedrooms: between USD 140,000 and USD 220,000.
• 3 bedrooms: from USD 220,000 onwards.

These prices may vary depending on the neighborhood and the condition of the property. In high-demand neighborhoods, competition among buyers may result in slight increases over the reference prices, while in areas with greater supply, prices can be negotiated with larger discount margins.

Key recommendations before purchasing​

Some tips for a safe real estate transaction:

• Avoid surprises with moisture: Freshly painted properties can hide leaks. It's a good idea to check walls and ceilings for signs of moisture.
• Control expenses: Requesting the last three months of settlements helps verify the consortium's expenses and potential debts.

A couple tours a home with the intention of buying it (Illustrative Image Infobae)

• Visit at different times: Observing the surroundings at different times of the day allows you to evaluate noise and traffic.
• Review key details: Opening closets, checking water pressure, and inspecting HVAC equipment are essential steps before making a decision.
• Consult with management: Before closing a deal, some buyers prefer to speak with the building's management to understand the financial status of the consortium and the existence of potential litigation or structural issues.

Market Outlook​

The Buenos Aires real estate market maintains ample supply and competitive prices. Demand is concentrated on well-located properties with specific features, while properties with structural issues or less prime locations may take longer to sell.

For Sacca, the key is knowing the buyer's profile and understanding what factors influence their decision. "Each buyer prioritizes different aspects depending on their situation. There are no unsaleable properties , but rather prices and conditions that must be adjusted to the market," he concluded.




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