is slated to see the opening of Pueblo La Dehesa, a project spearheaded by Grupo Altas Cumbres, a Chilean holding company with over 50 years of operation in the country. The group has interests in the financial sector, real estate, and retail, and is linked to Chilean businessman Santiago Cummins.
The development is located in Santa Blanca, within the Lo Barnechea commune, on a two-hectare (ha) plot of land. It will comprise 38 furnished single-family homes.
The complex is designed around an internal park with pedestrian circulation via walkways, reflecting the “village” concept inspiring the initiative. As of now, the project is in its final stages of operational preparation and launch.
However, the underlying idea behind Pueblo La Dehesa diverges from traditional real estate models. Grupo Altas Cumbres has indicated the project will operate under a flexible rental and managed rental scheme, with no plans for unit sales. Beyond the rental income, the model incorporates “organized services and experiences” that complement the accommodation. These activities, coordinated by the administration, include outdoor excursions and even helicopter tours.
The complex also features communal spaces, including a gourmet lounge – named La Casita – exclusively for guests.
This initiative represents Grupo Altas Cumbres’ second real estate development in Chile. Previously, the group participated, alongside other shareholders, in the development of Costa Cachagua in the Zapallar commune. The holding also has a presence in Peru, having been involved in real estate and commercial projects, including Jockey Plaza, one of the country’s largest shopping centers.
Pueblo La Dehesa will function as a pilot project and “is part of a larger strategy that contemplates new developments under the same model,” according to the company. It is described as the first project in Chile utilizing a boutique logic of flexible, fully-operated rentals, and forms part of a broader strategy for future developments mirroring this approach.
A New Model for Chilean Real Estate
The concept of flexible, fully-managed rentals with curated experiences is relatively novel in the Chilean real estate market. Traditionally, the market has focused on outright sales or standard long-term leases. Pueblo La Dehesa aims to cater to a segment seeking a hassle-free lifestyle with built-in amenities and activities. This model appears to be targeting both domestic and international residents who value convenience and community.
The absence of sales, and the focus on rental income, suggests Grupo Altas Cumbres is prioritizing long-term revenue streams over immediate capital gains. This strategy could be particularly attractive in a fluctuating real estate market. The managed rental aspect also allows the company to maintain control over the quality of the experience and ensure consistent standards across the development.
La Dehesa: A Location Primed for Upscale Development
The location in Lo Barnechea, specifically Santa Blanca, is strategically chosen. Lo Barnechea is an affluent suburb of Santiago, known for its high quality of life, proximity to the mountains, and relatively low population density. Airbnb data confirms La Dehesa as a desirable location for monthly rentals, with listings offering furnished accommodations and amenities like kitchens and Wi-Fi. The area is attracting digital nomads and traveling professionals, as evidenced by the availability of work-friendly spaces in nearby rentals.
The development of Pueblo La Dehesa aligns with a broader trend of upscale residential projects in the area. The presence of amenities like an infinity pool, as highlighted in Airbnb listings, suggests a focus on attracting discerning renters. The emphasis on integrating the homes into the landscape, with natural light and mountain views, further reinforces this positioning.
Prefabricated Construction and Sustainable Design
The project incorporates a sustainable, modular housing approach, as demonstrated by the “Tiny House” initiative within Pueblo La Dehesa, designed by Cazú Zegers Arquitectura in . This initiative utilizes prefabricated wooden homes, prioritizing community, warmth, and a connection to nature. The use of prefabricated construction can potentially reduce construction time and costs, while also minimizing environmental impact. The emphasis on natural light and views of the mountain range further underscores the commitment to sustainable design principles.
The Tiny House project, covering 18.45 square meters, represents a forward-thinking approach to neighborhood design, comprising three prefabricated housing types. This suggests a willingness to experiment with innovative building techniques and layouts.
Looking Ahead: Expansion and Potential Challenges
Grupo Altas Cumbres’ intention to use Pueblo La Dehesa as a pilot project indicates ambitions for further expansion of this rental model. The success of the initial phase will be crucial in attracting investment and securing land for future developments. However, the company may face challenges related to managing a large portfolio of furnished rentals, maintaining consistent service quality, and adapting to changing market conditions.
The curated experiences, such as outdoor excursions and helicopter tours, will require careful planning and execution to ensure they meet the expectations of discerning renters. Competition from existing hotels and serviced apartments in the area will also need to be considered. The long-term viability of the model will depend on the company’s ability to effectively manage costs, attract and retain tenants, and maintain a competitive edge in the Chilean real estate market.
