Medellín’s Adoption Surge: A Thousand Homes, Years of Waiting

Medellín Animal Shelter Faces Dilemma: Thousands Adopted, But Many Seniors Still Waiting

Medellín, Colombia – While teh Mayor’s office of Medellín celebrates a triumphant year with approximately 1,000 animals finding forever homes through its adoption program, a poignant reality persists within the city’s animal welfare efforts. The La Perla Animal Welfare Center, the largest of its kind in the country, is home to 2,672 animals, yet a important portion faces an extended wait for a family. Notably, 87 dogs and cats have been in the center for over a decade, with an additional 680 having spent between five and ten years without a loving home.

In the first part of 2025, the program has facilitated 942 adoptions, underscoring the management’s dedication to the welfare of rescued animals. Complementing these adoptions, the center has also conducted 2,512 rescues of animals in vulnerable situations, providing them with essential technical and veterinary care. The current resident population comprises 2,111 dogs and 561 cats, many of whom are still young. However, a substantial number have spent their entire lives within the shelter’s walls.

Elizabeth Coral, Undersecretary of Animal Protection and Welfare for Medellín, highlights the plight of the long-term residents. “87 animals, between canines and felines, have been waiting for a family for more than 10 years,” she stated. “Another 680 have lived between five and ten years in La Perla. all are in good health,have been sterilized,vaccinated,fed and cared for with love by the human team of the center. They have routines, bonds, and the ability to quickly adapt to new environments. They only lack a second chance.”

The Mayor’s Office is issuing an appeal to the public, urging citizens to consider adopting not only the younger animals but also the older ones who, despite the passage of time and their long wait, still possess immense capacity for love and companionship. “Adopting an adult animal is an act of deep love,” Coral emphasized, “which transforms its last stage of life into a dignified, loving, and serene experience.” This initiative serves as a reminder that age is merely a number when it comes to offering a lifeline and unconditional affection to an animal in need.

What factors contribute to the extended wait times for properties in Medellín, beyond simply a lack of construction?

The Growing Demand for Property in medellín

Medellín, Colombia, affectionately known as the “City of Eternal spring” and the “Capital de la Montaña” (Capital of the Mountain) due to its location in the Aburrá Valley of the Andes mountains (at 1538m altitude), has experienced a dramatic surge in international property adoption in recent years. This isn’t simply a real estate boom; it’s a shift in lifestyle, driven by factors ranging from remote work opportunities to a substantially improved quality of life. Though, this increased demand has created a bottleneck – a waiting list for desirable properties stretching back years. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for anyone considering investing in Medellín real estate or relocating to Medellín.

Understanding the Waitlist: Why Years?

The lengthy wait times aren’t due to a lack of construction. Medellín has seen substantial development, notably in neighborhoods popular with expats like El Poblado, Laureles, and Envigado. The core issue is the concentration of demand for specific types of properties:

Turnkey Apartments: Fully furnished, modern apartments in secure buildings are the most sought-after, and therefore have the longest wait times.

Properties with Views: the stunning mountain views are a major draw, and properties offering these vistas command a premium and face intense competition.

Specific Building Amenities: Gyms, rooftop terraces, co-working spaces, and 24/7 security are highly desirable features, further limiting availability.

Pre-construction Purchases: Many buyers opt to purchase off-plan properties in Medellín, securing a unit before completion. This requires patience,as construction can take 2-3 years.

The Key Neighborhoods Driving Demand

Several neighborhoods are at the epicenter of this property adoption surge:

El Poblado: Traditionally the most popular expat hub, known for its upscale restaurants, nightlife, and modern apartments. El Poblado real estate remains highly competitive.

Laureles – Estadio: A more residential and family-pleasant area, offering a blend of traditional Colombian charm and modern amenities. Laureles apartments are increasingly in demand.

Envigado: Situated just south of El Poblado, Envigado provides a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere with a growing number of modern developments.Envigado property offers good value for money.

Belén: Emerging as a popular choice, offering stunning views and a more authentic Colombian experience. Belén real estate is still relatively affordable.

Navigating the Medellín Property Market: Strategies for Success

Given the lengthy wait times, prospective buyers need a strategic approach:

1. Engage a Reputable Real Estate Agent: A local agent with experience working with international buyers is invaluable. They can provide access to listings not publicly available and navigate the complexities of the Medellín property buying process.
2. Be Flexible with Your Criteria: Consider expanding your search to include slightly different neighborhoods or property types.
3. Explore Pre-Construction Opportunities: While requiring patience, pre-sale properties in Medellín can offer significant discounts and the chance to customize your unit.
4. Secure Financing in Advance: Having pre-approved financing can give you a competitive edge. Mortgages for foreigners in Colombia are becoming increasingly accessible.
5. Consider Property Management: If you plan to rent out your property, a reliable Medellín property management company is essential.

The Impact of Remote Work & Digital Nomadism

The rise of remote work has been a significant catalyst for the property adoption surge.Medellín’s affordable cost of living, excellent internet infrastructure, and vibrant culture make it an attractive destination for digital nomads and remote workers. This influx of new residents has further fueled demand for housing.

Legal Considerations for Foreign Buyers

Visa Requirements: Understand the visa options available for long-term stays in Colombia.

Property Taxes: Be aware of annual property taxes (Impuesto Predial).

Legal Due Diligence: Always conduct thorough legal due diligence before purchasing any property. A qualified Medellín real estate lawyer can assist with this process.

Currency Exchange: Factor in currency exchange rates when budgeting for your purchase.

Benefits of Investing in Medellín Real Estate

Despite the challenges, investing in Medellín real estate offers numerous benefits:

High Rental Yields: Medellín boasts attractive rental yields, making it a perhaps lucrative investment.

Gratitude Potential: The city’s continued growth and development suggest strong potential for property value appreciation.

affordable Cost of Living: Compared to many other international cities, Medellín offers a significantly lower cost of living.

Excellent Quality of Life: The city’s pleasant climate, vibrant culture, and friendly locals contribute to a high quality of life.

Real-World Example: The case of Parque del Poblado Development

The Parque del Poblado development, a luxury apartment complex in El Poblado, experienced a waitlist exceeding 18 months even before construction began. Demand was so high that units were often sold within days of being released. This illustrates the