Real Estate in Villa de Leyva, Colombia
Last updated on Sep 07, 2024
Summary: People living in Villa de Leyva, Colombia offer advice about real estate. How do you find a home in Villa de Leyva? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?
How do I find a place to live in Villa de Leyva?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"To find a place to live in Villa de Leyva, you can start by researching online on websites such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and local real estate websites like fincaraiz.com.co and metrocuadrado.com. These websites will provide you with various options, including apartments, houses, and shared accommodations. Another option is to join local Facebook groups or expat forums where people often post about available rentals or roommates. Examples of such groups are "Villa de Leyva Expats" and "Villa de Leyva Rentals." You can also visit local real estate agencies in Villa de Leyva, where agents can help you find a suitable place based on your preferences and budget. They can also provide you with information about the local rental market and guide you through the process. Additionally, consider asking friends, family, or colleagues who live in the area for recommendations. They may know of available rentals or have connections with local landlords. Lastly, if you are in Villa de Leyva, you can explore the town and look for "For Rent" or "Se Alquila" signs posted on properties. This can be a great way to find local rentals that may not be advertised online," explained one expat living in Villa de Leyva, Colombia.
Connect
We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Villa de Leyva?
"A typical expat home or apartment in Villa de Leyva, is likely to be a charming, colonial-style house or apartment with whitewashed walls, wooden beams, and terracotta roof tiles. These homes often feature cozy living spaces, well-equipped kitchens, and comfortable bedrooms. Many expat homes in Villa de Leyva have outdoor spaces such as courtyards or gardens, where residents can enjoy the pleasant climate and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Some homes may also have modern amenities like Wi-Fi, cable TV, and laundry facilities. Due to the town's popularity as a tourist destination, expat homes in Villa de Leyva can be found in various locations, from quiet residential neighborhoods to more lively areas close to the main square, restaurants, and shops," said one expat who made the move to Villa de Leyva.
What is the average cost of housing in Villa de Leyva?
If you are thinking about moving to Villa de Leyva, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Villa de Leyva can vary depending on the type of accommodation and location. For instance, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost around $300 to $400 per month, while a similar apartment outside the city center may cost around $200 to $300 per month. If you are looking to buy a property, the average price per square meter in the city center can be around $1,000 to $1,500, while outside the city center, it may be around $800 to $1,200. However, these prices can fluctuate depending on the current market conditions and other factors," explained one expat living in Villa de Leyva, Colombia.
Should I buy or rent a home in Villa de Leyva?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Villa de Leyva, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"The decision to buy or rent a home in Villa de Leyva depends on several factors. If you plan to stay in the area for an extended period and want to invest in property, buying a home may be a good option. Owning a home in Villa de Leyva can provide you with a sense of stability and the opportunity to build equity over time. Additionally, the town's growing popularity as a tourist destination could potentially increase the value of your property in the future. On the other hand, if you are unsure about your long-term plans or prefer flexibility, renting a home may be a better choice. Renting allows you to explore different neighborhoods and housing options without the commitment of a mortgage. It also eliminates the responsibility of property maintenance and repairs, which can be particularly beneficial if you are not familiar with local construction practices and materials. Another factor to consider is your financial situation. Buying a home typically requires a significant upfront investment, including a down payment, closing costs, and potential renovation expenses. Renting, however, generally requires a smaller initial outlay, such as a security deposit and first month's rent. If you have limited funds or prefer to allocate your resources elsewhere, renting may be more financially feasible. In conclusion, the decision to buy or rent a home in Villa de Leyva depends on your personal preferences, financial situation, and long-term plans. Weighing the pros and cons of each option can help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs and lifestyle," explained one person living in Villa de Leyva, Colombia.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.