Housing options in Sao Paulo worth a look
Before you relocate to this wonderful city, make sure you prepare for it. Finding accommodation in Sao Paulo is one of the most important items on your to-do list. Every newcomer looking for a place to live should familiarize him/herself with the housing options in Sao Paulo before they start looking for residential movers in Brazil. Although the choice is wide, not everything is worth considering.
If you plan on becoming a Paulistano, do your homework and gather some information on:
- Brazilian culture and etiquette
- The best neighborhoods for expats
- Housing options in Sao Paulo
- Traffic options and challenges
- Job opportunities in Sao Paulo
- Free time an entertainment
Residential areas popular among expats
There is a good supply of housing options in Sao Paulo. We’re sure you will find something that fits your lifestyle and your budget.
Morumbi
Morumbi is a wealthy suburban neighborhood located in southwestern Sao Paulo. In comparison to the downtown area, Morumbi is less polluted and has more green spaces. On the downside, there is a favela (slum neighborhood) in this residential area.
Santo Amaro
The upper-class district of Santo Amaro is also known as the “Brazilian Manhattan”. This district has some of the best neighborhoods in the city. Chácara Flora and Vila Olimpia are among the most exclusive areas with the most expensive housing options in Sao Paulo. A lot of homes in these neighborhoods are fenced off.
Alphaville
Alphaville was originally built in the 1970s as a gated community outside Sao Paulo. Today, this is a small town with around 30,000 residents. It has a medical center, a shopping center, and 11 schools. Its biggest flaw is the heavy traffic you will have to get accustomed to if you commute to and from the city center.
Pinheiros
Pinheiros is an upper-middle-class, bohemian neighborhood, also popular among expats. It has a mixed population and numerous shopping options.
Vila Madalena
Vila Madalena is popular among artists and musicians, younger expats and international students. Full of botecas (pubs) and cafes, Vila Madalena is famous for its vibrant nightlife.
Itaim Bibi
Expats moving to Sao Paulo who wish to avoid expat-only areas can choose Itaim Bibi or Jardins. Itaim Bibi is generally safe and popular among expats living in Brazil. It is a southern, new money neighborhood with high-rise apartments and plenty of fancy restaurants.
Jardins
Jardins (the garden districts) have several safe, high-end neighborhoods located near an important business district called Avenida Paulista. They are also close to Rua Oscar Freire – an exclusive shopping avenue. In addition, this area offers many entertainment venues and cultural attractions.
What are your housing options in Sao Paulo?
Overall, the quality of accommodation in the city is high. The majority of expats opt for renting rather than buying a home. Most apartments for rent in Sao Paulo are not furnished. Nevertheless, real estate agencies that work with expats now offer a variety of furnished apartments you can rent since the demand for fully furnished accommodation has increased over the past years.
If you decide to rent a home in Sao Paulo you will need several documents. Among them are the copies of your passport and work permit. Moreover, you’ll need to provide a proof of income. In case of insufficient or informal income, you will need a grantor (fiador).
Serviced apartments
Finding a regular apartment is not always easy if you plan to live there for less than a year. But do not worry – serviced apartments (aka flats) are available as short-term rentals. These apartments are usually available on short notice. Vacation and short-term rental properties are normally furnished. And they could be an ideal temporary solution while you search for something more permanent.
If you are not renting a fully serviced and furnished apartment, you will probably have to contact utility suppliers yourself to start using their services.
Other options
In urban Sao Paulo, single-family houses are pretty uncommon but if you do find one, you’ll probably have your own barbeque area and a swimming pool. Then, there are prédios – fully furnished 10-30 story buildings located in the center of the city. Upper and middle-classes often live in condomínios – fenced off housing blocks. They have shared facilities such as swimming pools and gyms. Also, they normally have their own security staff. Security and other extras usually cost extra.
Expats, especially young professionals, who like to live close to the city center choose predios.
How to find accommodation in Sao Paulo?
Newcomers should work with a real estate agent if they are unfamiliar with the city. Realtors have enough knowledge and experience to assist you in finding the best housing option in Sao Paulo that fits your needs. Sometimes, they know about properties for rent/sale even before they are on the market.
Alternatively, searching through dedicated websites or the classified sections of Brazilian newspapers should help you find accommodation too. If that does not work for you, ask your acquaintances and co-workers for recommendations. Many companies provide their employees with accommodation. If your company is willing to help, moving to Sao Paulo will be much easier.
How much do housing options in Sao Paulo cost?
Let’s be honest, Brazil is expensive, especially the major cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. Unfortunately, rent and property prices are incredibly high. Compared to Rio, Sao Paulo is a little more affordable but still pricey. Rent prices in Sao Paulo depend mainly on the condition of the buildings and apartments as well as the location.
Finding a good moving company to take care of your international relocation is as important as finding a good real estate agent. Whichever Sao Paulo housing option or neighborhood you choose, reputable long distance moving companies Brazil will help make your house move quick and smooth.
