Introduction

Understanding real estate and renting in Colombia is one of the most important — and misunderstood — parts of relocating. Many foreigners assume the process works like the U.S., Canada, or Europe. It doesn’t.

The good news: renting in Colombia is often simpler, more flexible, and more affordable. The challenge is knowing what to expect, what to avoid, and when to slow down.

This hub focuses on renting first, with ownership covered realistically for foreigners who plan to stay long-term.

Renting vs Buying in Colombia: What Makes Sense?

For most newcomers, renting is the smart starting point.

Renting allows you to:

Learn neighborhoods

Understand pricing

Avoid legal and cultural mistakes

Stay flexible

Buying property makes sense only after:

Living in Colombia for a year or more

Understanding residency and visa options

Building trusted local relationships

How Renting Works in Colombia

Short-Term Rentals

Popular with newcomers and digital nomads.

Airbnb

Furnished apartments

Monthly rates available

Pros:

No contracts

Utilities often included

Easy entry

Cons:

Higher cost

Less negotiating power

Long-Term Rentals

Typically 6–12 month contracts.

Usually unfurnished

Utilities separate

Much lower monthly cost

Foreigners often face challenges due to fiador (co-signer) requirements, but alternatives exist.

The Fiador Requirement (And Workarounds)

Many long-term rentals require a fiador — a Colombian citizen who guarantees the lease.

Common Alternatives

Paying several months upfront

Using insurance-backed lease companies

Renting through expat-friendly agencies

Negotiating directly with owners

This is normal — not discrimination.

Furnished vs Unfurnished Apartments

Unfurnished apartments often include:

Kitchen cabinets

Stove

Water heater

They usually do not include:

Refrigerator

Washer

Furniture

Furnished rentals cost more but simplify the transition.

Typical Rental Costs (High-Level)

Costs vary widely by city and neighborhood.

Factors that affect price:

Location

Building amenities

Furnished vs unfurnished

Length of lease

(You already have a Cost of Living hub — link to it here.)

Real Estate for Foreigners: Buying Property

Foreigners can legally buy property in Colombia with the same rights as locals.

Important Considerations

No automatic residency

Legal due diligence is critical

Use an independent attorney

Avoid pressure tactics

Buying should be a decision, not a reaction to low prices.

Common Mistakes Foreigners Make

Renting without seeing the area

Paying deposits without contracts

Buying too early

Trusting verbal agreements

Assuming English will be enough

Colombia rewards patience.

Working With Agents and Agencies

Some agents specialize in foreign clients. Others don’t.

Tips:

Use agents as facilitators, not decision-makers

Always verify ownership and contracts

Don’t rely on Facebook groups alone

Trust is built over time.

Cities and Neighborhoods Matter More Than Property

The same apartment can feel completely different depending on:

Noise

Walkability

Transportation

Community vibe

Spend time in a city before committing long-term.

Who This Guide Is For (And Who It’s Not)

This Guide Is For You If:

You plan to live in Colombia 6+ months

You want realistic expectations

You value flexibility

You prefer renting before buying

This Guide Is Not For You If:

You want instant property ownership

You expect U.S.-style processes

You’re chasing “cheap deals” without context

Next Steps

Explore cost of living in Colombia

Learn Spanish for rental negotiations

Compare cities and neighborhoods

Understand residency before buying

Real estate decisions are easier once you understand how Colombia actually works.