Accommodation in Santiago
Like most large cities, the range of accommodation available in Santiago will suit most pockets. Finding a property to rent in Santiago may be the biggest hurdle in the whole renting process. However, the dollar holds formidable acquisition power in the city, so if that is what you’re earning it makes it easier to find a suitable place to rent.Most of the accommodation in Santiago comes in the form of 'piezas' or apartments. It is also possible to find houses up for rent, especially in the areas of La Barnechea. Expats should note that this area can get quite cold, which makes your amenities bill quite pricey when if heating is needed.
Some other popular areas are Nunua and the tree-lined Providencia. Las Condes has a significant number of expats in the area as is obvious from its nickname 'gringolandia'. El Golf is a little more expensive, La Reina is on the cheaper side and La Dehesa is situated near to La Baranechea.
Rental agreements in Santiago are generally for a 12-month period although shorter terms are easily negotiated - though usually at a higher price. Landlords generally require a deposit amount of at least one month’s rent. Unfurnished apartments will come with no furniture or appliances so it is best to negotiate to try and include a refrigerator and oven in the apartment. Furnished apartments are available, but they will obviously cost more.
Renting is quite standard in Chile and there aren't any foreign costs or unfamiliar rental agreements. There are also a number of rental agencies that specifically cater to the expat community. These service providers make finding accommodation much simpler but far more costly. Santiago’s daily newspaper El Mercurio has an extensive properties listing section.
Average prices for unfurnished properties in a few of the more popular areas:
- La Barnechea is around US $1700 for a house
- Providencia and Nunua are about US $600 for a two bedroom apartment
- Las Condes (Gringolandia) costs $700 upwards for two or three bedroom apartments
- El Golf is around $950 - $1000 for two or three bedroom apartments
- La Reina has options that are below $600 for smaller apartments
- La Dehesa is close to La Baranechea and offers similar housing and prices above $1000
