Furnished vs Unfurnished Rentals in Antigua Guatemala

If you are planning a move to Antigua Guatemala, one of the first decisions you will face is whether to rent a furnished or unfurnished place. Both options have real advantages, and the right choice depends on your timeline, budget, and lifestyle.

Furnished Rentals: Convenience at a Premium

Furnished rentals in Antigua Guatemala typically include beds, sofas, tables, kitchenware, and sometimes linens and small appliances. They are popular with digital nomads, short-term visitors, and expats who want a hassle-free move.

Typical costs: A furnished one-bedroom in a good area runs between Q5,000 and Q10,000 per month. Two-bedroom furnished units range from Q8,000 to Q15,000 or more depending on location and quality.

Pros:

Move in with just a suitcase. No shopping for furniture or dealing with deliveries.
Flexible lease terms, often available for three to six months.
Great for testing a neighborhood before committing long-term.

Cons:

Higher monthly rent compared to unfurnished equivalents.
You have less control over the style and quality of furnishings.
Wear and tear on someone else’s belongings can cause disputes at lease end.

Furnished rentals work best for people staying six months or less, those new to the area who want time to explore, or anyone who values simplicity over savings.

Unfurnished Rentals: More Savings, More Control

Unfurnished rentals in Antigua Guatemala are empty shells, sometimes with basic appliances like a stove and refrigerator. You bring your own furniture, dishes, and everything else.

Typical costs: An unfurnished one-bedroom can start as low as Q3,000 to Q5,000 per month. Two-bedroom units often range from Q5,000 to Q9,000.

Pros:

Significantly lower rent, which adds up over a year or more.
You choose exactly how your home looks and feels.
Long-term leases (one year or more) give stability and often lower rates.

Cons:

Upfront cost of buying furniture, which can be Q10,000 to Q30,000 depending on your taste.
Takes time and effort to set up, especially in a new country.
If you leave after a short time, you will need to sell or store furniture.

Unfurnished rentals make the most sense if you plan to stay at least a year in Antigua Guatemala, want to create a personalized home, or are moving with a family and have specific needs.

Lease Terms to Expect

Most landlords in Antigua Guatemala prefer a one-year lease, especially for unfurnished units. Furnished rentals are more flexible, with some landlords offering month-to-month or three-month agreements. Deposits are usually one or two months of rent, returned at the end of the lease minus any damages.

Always get the lease in writing, even if the landlord suggests a verbal agreement. Have it reviewed by someone who reads Spanish, as most contracts will be in Spanish.

Which Should You Choose?

Ask yourself a few questions:

How long will you stay? Under six months, furnished. Over a year, unfurnished usually wins.
Do you want to settle in quickly? Furnished lets you start living from day one.
Is budget your main concern? Unfurnished saves money over time, even after the initial furniture investment.

Many people start with a furnished rental for their first few months in Antigua Guatemala, then transition to an unfurnished place once they know the area better. That is a perfectly reasonable approach.

Need Help Finding the Right Rental?

At Antigua Real Estate Development, we help people find both furnished and unfurnished rentals that match their needs and budget. Whether you are relocating for a few months or settling in for years, Luna and the team can guide you through the options.