Chile se ha consolidado como un destino atractivo para la inversión inmobiliaria, no solo por su estabilidad económica y paisajes diversos, sino también por una calidad de vida que atrae a personas de todo el mundo. Si estás considerando comprar un departamento en Chile desde el extranjero, ¡has llegado al lugar correcto! Este artículo te explicará el proceso paso a paso, los requisitos clave y consideraciones esenciales para una inversión exitosa.
Why buy an apartment in Chile as a foreigner?
Investing in the Chilean real estate market offers several advantages:
- Economic and Legal Stability: Chile is recognized for its institutional strength and a legal framework that protects foreign investment.
- Quality of Life: It offers high standards of living, safety, and access to quality services.
- Dynamic Real Estate Market: Especially in cities such as Santiago, Viña del Mar, or Concepción, the market shows constant demand and potential for appreciation.
- Transparent Process for Foreigners: Although it requires certain specific steps, the purchase process for non-residents is clear and well defined.
Fundamental steps to buy your apartment in Chile from abroad
Acquiring a property in Chile as a foreigner involves a series of procedures that, while they may seem complex, are manageable with the right information and advice.
1. Obtaining the RUT for Foreign Investors
El Rol Único Tributario (RUT) es el número de identificación fiscal en Chile, indispensable para cualquier transacción económica, incluida la compra de un inmueble. Los extranjeros que deseen invertir, pero no residir en Chile, pueden obtain a Foreign investor RUT.
For this you will need to designate a legal representative in Chile, es cual es una persona natural chilena o extranjera con residencia definitiva. Este representante es quien realizará el trámite ante el Servicio de Impuestos Internos (SII) para la obtención del RUT.
Vas a necesitar como documentación tu pasaporte vigente, un poder que puede ser apostillado o firmado ante un Ministro de Fe Chileno en el exterior (consulado) que designa al representante legal, y otros documentos que el SII pueda solicitar.
2. Opening a bank account in Chile (optional but recommended)
Si bien no es estrictamente obligatorio para la compra inicial, ya que se pueden usar transferencias internacionales. El tener una cuenta bancaria chilena facilita enormemente los pagos asociados (gastos comunes, contribuciones, etc.) y la administración de la propiedad a largo plazo.
Generally, opening an account without residency can be complex, therefore the easiest way to open a bank account in Chile as a Foreigner, is through a Investment Company, At Iberocapital we can be the legal representatives of the investment company.
3. Specialized legal advice: Your best ally
At Iberocapital we are experts in real estate law with experience in transactions with foreigners. We can guide you in:
- Document review: Title study of the property to ensure it is free of liens or litigation.
- Drafting and review of contracts: Promise of purchase and sale and final deed.
- Representation: We can act as your attorney-in-fact or representative in Chile to sign documents if you cannot be present.
4. Search and selection of the apartment
Gracias a la tecnología, buscar propiedades en Chile desde el extranjero es más fácil que nunca, lo más común es visitar portales inmobiliarios online: Sitios como PortalInmobiliario, TOCTOC.com, Goplaceit, y las páginas de las principales corredoras ofrecen amplios catálogos.
Otra opción si deseas comprar un departamento en Chile desde el extranjero es contratar un corredor de propiedades, el cual termina ofreciendo un conocimiento local, filtrando opciones según tus criterios y coordinando visitas (virtuales o presenciales si viajas).
5. The Promise of Purchase and Sale
Once the apartment is chosen, a «Promise of Purchase and Sale» is signed before a notary. This binding document establishes:
- Identification of the parties (buyer and seller).
- Detailed description of the property.
- Agreed price and payment method.
- Term for signing the final deed.
- Fines in case of non-compliance by any of the parties.
- Conditions for the execution of the sale (e.g., mortgage loan approval, if applicable).
Generally, when signing the promissory agreement, a down payment or advance is paid (usually between 10% and 20% of the value).
6. Title study
Antes de la firma definitiva, en Iberocapital ofrecemos el servicio de Estudio de Títulos para comprar un departamento en chile desde el extranjero. Este es un análisis exhaustivo de la historia legal de la propiedad durante los últimos 10 años (o más) para verificar que no existan problemas legales, deudas, embargos, o limitaciones al dominio que puedan afectar tu derecho de propiedad.
7. Financing (considerations for foreigners)
Obtaining a mortgage loan in Chile as a non-resident can be complicated, since banks usually require permanent residency and proof of local income. The most common options are:
- Cash purchase: Using savings or own funds.
- Financing in your country of origin: Obtaining a loan in your country using other assets as collateral.
- Crédito con algunos bancos chilenos: Algunos bancos podrían ofrecer financiamiento bajo condiciones especiales a no residentes, pero suele ser más restrictivo y con tasas más altas. Es fundamental investigar a fondo.
8. Final Purchase and Sale Deed and registration
If everything is in order after the title study, the Purchase and Sale Deed is signed before a Chilean public notary. In this step the final payment is made.
Subsequently, the deed must be registered in the Conservador de Bienes Raíces (CBR) corresponding to the comuna where the property is located. This registration legally accredits you as the new owner.
9. Associated Taxes and Expenses to buy an apartment in chile from abroad
Consider the following additional costs:
- Stamp and Seals Tax: If you buy with a mortgage loan.
- Notarial and CBR registration expenses: They vary according to the value of the property.
- Our fees or those of the corresponding attorney and the Real Estate Broker.
- Contributions (Property Tax): They are paid quarterly.
Key Additional Considerations when buying an apartment in chile from abroad
- Exchange Rate: Fluctuations in the exchange rate can impact the final cost in your local currency.
- Property Management: If you will not live in Chile, consider hiring a property management company for leasing, maintenance, and bill payment.
- Patience and Diligence: The process can take several months. It is vital to be patient and carry out thorough due diligence.
A Smart Investment with proper planning
Buying an apartment in Chile from abroad is a fully feasible project and can be an excellent investment. The key to success lies in careful planning, the obtaining the investor RUT, solid legal and financial advice, and a clear understanding of the process.
En Iberocapital contamos con la experiencia y el conocimiento legal para acompañarte en cada etapa. Nuestro equipo de expertos se encargará de los trámites y todos los detalles para que tú solo te preocupes por disfrutar la emoción de tu nueva adquisición.
Do not let bureaucracy or uncertainty hold back your dream. Trust the professionals who will make buying your apartment in Chile a simple and secure reality.
