Ecuador Expat Journeys Newsletter: Renting vs. Buying
- Ecuador Expat Journeys
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 19
October 2025 Edition | Your monthly guide to expat life in Ecuador
Home Sweet Home in Ecuador: Renting vs. Buying?
Finding the right place to call home is one of the biggest decisions you'll make as an expat in Ecuador. This month, we're diving into the rental and property market to help you navigate your options with confidence.
Renting vs. Buying: What's Right for You?
As expats and digital nomads settle into life in Ecuador, the question inevitably arises: should you rent or buy? Each option has distinct advantages depending on your situation. Renting offers flexibility and lower initial investment, making it ideal for newcomers still exploring different cities or those planning to stay less than two years. You'll avoid property taxes, maintenance costs, and can easily relocate if needed.
On the flip side, buying property provides long-term stability, potential appreciation, and the freedom to customize your space. Ecuador's relatively affordable real estate market makes homeownership accessible for many foreigners, with straightforward property laws compared to some neighboring countries. The right choice ultimately depends on your timeline, financial situation, and how certain you are about your chosen location.
Understanding the Ecuadorian Property Market
When exploring housing options, you'll encounter significant differences between furnished and unfurnished properties. Furnished rentals typically include basic furniture, appliances, and sometimes kitchenware – perfect for short-term residents or those wanting to avoid shipping belongings. Unfurnished properties (often significantly cheaper) may lack not just furniture but also appliances like refrigerators and stoves, requiring a larger upfront investment but offering greater customization.
Furnished rentals: Expect to pay 20-40% more for a furnished rental, but enjoy immediate move-in convenience
Unfurnished rentals: Lower monthly costs but you will need to budget for appliances and furniture
Long-term leases (1+ year): Can often negotiate significant discounts, especially paying quarterly
Property management: Generally 8-10% of rental income if you plan to buy and rent out your property
Average Rental Costs by City (Monthly)
Housing costs vary significantly across Ecuador's most popular expat destinations. Here's what you can expect for a standard 2-bedroom apartment in good condition:
Cuenca: $400-600 unfurnished, $500-900 furnished
Quito: $450-800 unfurnished, $650-1,000 furnished
Salinas: $400-700 unfurnished, $800-1500 furnished (higher during peak season)
Manta: $500-850 unfurnished, $900-1750 furnished
Cotacachi: $350-700 unfurnished, $550-900 furnished
Vilcabamba: $500-800 unfurnished, $650-1000 furnished
Purchase Price Overview by City
If buying is your preference, here's what you might expect to pay for properties in good locations:
Cuenca: $80,000-150,000 for condos, $120,000-250,000 for houses
Quito: $90,000-180,000 for condos, $150,000-300,000 for houses
Salinas: $70,000-140,000 for condos, $120,000-220,000 for houses
Manta: $75,000-175,000 for condos, $110,000-200,000 for houses
Cotacachi: $75,000-145,000 for apartments/condos, $115,000-230,000 for houses
Vilcabamba: $85,000-155,000 for apartments/condos, $125,000-260,000 for houses
What to Expect from Ecuadorian Homes
Tile floors and concrete walls built for cool Andean climates.
Outdoor terraces and courtyards perfect for year-round living.
Compact kitchens (but with fresh produce markets nearby, you may not mind). North American style kitchens are becoming more common in new construction, but older homes will have a more traditional style kitchen.
Appliances often not included—always double-check before signing.
Essential Tips
Legal Protection First: Whether renting or buying, always consult with a reputable Ecuadorian real estate lawyer before signing any agreements. Even fluent Spanish speakers can miss legal nuances that could cause problems later. For approximately $200-400, a good lawyer will review contracts, verify property titles are clean, and ensure you avoid common pitfalls that affect foreigners. This small investment can save you thousands and countless headaches down the road.
Try Before You Buy: Consider renting for a period of 6 months to 1 year before committing to a property purchase. This allows you to fully experience the city and neighborhood you're considering, ensuring it truly feels like home.
Want to see homes, neighborhoods, and meet expats already living in Ecuador?
Join one of our Ecuador Expat Journeys relocation tours. We’ll guide you through the country, introduce you to locals and expats, and give you a firsthand look at what life—and housing—is really like here.
Thank you for exploring the possibilities with us! Imagine waking up every day in the stunning landscapes of Ecuador, living your best life surrounded by vibrant culture and welcoming communities. Until next month!
Warmest Regards,
The Ecuador Expat Journeys Team
