By Oliver Bazely, Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO – In the third article in our recent series on renting apartments in Rio, we take a look at five different apartments for rent in various neighborhoods for R$3,500, focusing on Ipanema, Copacabana, Leblon, Flamengo and Botafogo. Prices here do not include IPTU or condominium charges (normally R$500 – R$1,000), which can vary wildly and should certainly be considered.
Ipanema
Ipanema is one of the most upmarket and expensive neighborhoods in Rio. Residents enjoy easy access to the long Atlantic Ocean beach, and are spoiled for choice with some of the best restaurants in the city. Rental costs are high relative to other parts of the city, and for R$3,500 expect to find an 75-100m² apartment with two bedrooms, varying on proximity to the beach and quality of interior.
Example: This 75m² apartment is unfurnished and smaller than you would find elsewhere for the price. There are some nice details in the decoration, but the view is not particularly inspiring. You will also need to pay R$523 in IPTU and condominium charges.
Average apartment area: 70-80m²
Average rent per m²: R$50
Leblon
Leblon is home to the cream of Rio real estate, and has the prices to match. R$3,500 is sufficient to rent a well-appointed two bedroom apartment, and may also feature a partial sea view or a terrace a few blocks off the beach. If furniture is supplied, then its quality will usually be good.
Example: This decent-sized apartment has two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a small outdoor terrace. There are also some nice touches such as parquet flooring and wooden window frames. The IPTU and condominium charges add a further R$500.
Average apartment area: 70m²
Average rent per m²: R$45
Copacabana
Copacabana is a bustling neighborhood and ever popular with visitors to the city. It benefits from great transport links and a long beach. Many rental apartments are targeted at tourists, but it is also possible to find longer-term rents, at far more reasonable prices than in Ipanema or Leblon. R$3,500 is sufficient to rent a 110m² apartment in a centrally located building. If you are willing to sacrifice space, a sea view is also a possibility.
Example: This three bedroom, 110m² apartment is partially furnished, and features a modern fitted kitchen and a spacious walk in shower. The apartment also comes with two parking spaces. The condominium charge is R$581.
Average apartment area: 110m²
Average rent per m²: R$35
Botafogo
Between Copacabana and Flamengo, Botafogo has a slightly edgier reputation than some Zona Sul districts, due to its proximity to the Dona Marta favela. However, in recent years, the relatively underdeveloped Botafogo housing market has benefited from the city-wide housing boom. Amenities are plentiful and Rio Sul and Botafogo Praia Shopping are close by. The ‘Aterro’ express-way makes for easy commuting to Centro.
Example: This apartment in a high-rise building near Rio Sul mall has two bedrooms, fitted furniture and one parking space. The apartment is just over the budget but is on a high floor and has fantastic views over Rio. Residents also share a swimming pool and function room, which can increase condominium charges considerably.
Average apartment area: 110m²
Average rent per m²: R$30
Flamengo
Flamengo is a high-rise neighborhood located between Zona Sul and Centro. Without an Atlantic beach of its own, the bairro is less popular with tourists than Copacabana or Ipanema but does have some interesting architecture and good transport links, and is home to the city’s biggest park. Apartments available in the R$3,500 price range are usually in excess of 120m² and can feature three or more bedrooms.
Example: This semi-furnished 138m². apartment features two bedrooms, a large living area and a parking space. The building is located in a quiet square near the beach. The IPTU plus condominium charge will add a further R$670 to your expenditure.
Average apartment area: 130m²
Average rent per m²: R$30