Punta del Este, Uruguay
Can an Airbnb property in Uruguay really return 15 percent? This guide breaks down the numbers behind short term rental ROI, using tourism data, real costs and property examples to help foreign buyers invest with more clarity.
By Liza – Founder & Real Estate Advisor at Punta HousesJune 10, 202615 min readIf you are considering buying property in Uruguay and want to know whether a specific home could work as a rental investment, send us the property link, your budget and your investment goal.
For selected properties, we can prepare a free business plan before you make a decision. This includes estimated purchase costs, setup budget, conservative and optimistic income scenarios, expected operating costs, and a realistic ROI range.
That way, you are not only asking whether you like the property. Instead youu are asking: does this property make sense as a business?
Yes, but only in specific cases. It should be seen as a high performing scenario, not a normal market average. A property has a better chance of reaching that level when it is bought at the right price, designed for guest demand, professionally photographed, priced dynamically and managed with discipline. The market data shows a wide gap between typical listings and best performing properties, which is exactly why property selection matters so much.
Foreigners can buy property in Uruguay, and Deloitte notes that both residents and non residents can purchase real estate under the country’s foreign ownership framework. For short term rentals, owners should also check current registration duties, tax rules, building rules and local requirements before listing a property online.
The best property is not always the most expensive one. A strong Airbnb property usually has a clear guest profile, good access, parking, outdoor space, air conditioning, reliable WiFi, comfortable sleeping arrangements and simple maintenance. A smaller, well located house can sometimes outperform a larger home if it is easier to manage and better suited to what guests actually book.
The biggest risk is buying emotionally and trying to force the numbers afterward. Airbnb will not fix a bad purchase price, weak location, poor layout, high maintenance, bad photos or careless management. The safer approach is to calculate first, buy second and treat the property as both real estate and a hospitality business.
Liza is the founder of Punta Houses, with a background in real estate, construction, and tourism. After traveling across all continents and living as an expat in South America for over 12 years, she has developed a strong understanding of what international buyers are truly looking for. It is rarely just about a property — it is about lifestyle, location, and the right feeling. With a refined perspective on real estate and in-depth knowledge of the local market, Liza guides clients through every step of the buying process. Her approach is discreet, personal, and focused on finding the right match, with attention to detail and long-term value. She works with clients from around the world and communicates fluently in Dutch, English, Spanish, French, and German, ensuring a smooth and professional experience on an international level. For Liza, real estate is about more than transactions. It is about trust, insight, and creating opportunities that truly align with each client’s lifestyle and ambitions.
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Foreign buyers often fall for views, architecture and turnkey comfort, while Uruguayans tend to notice winter sun, maintenance and practical spaces. Discover what both can learn before buying a home in Uruguay.
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