Luxury estate agency brand Fine & Country has expanded into South America for the first time after signing a master licence agreement to launch in Uruguay.
The agreement has been signed with Ignacio Sorhuet, who will lead the development of the Fine & Country network across Uruguay alongside Ana Sapelli.
Sorhuet’s firm, Sorhuet & Sapelli, currently operates offices in Punta del Este and Carrasco, which will form the base for Fine & Country’s national rollout and act as a potential hub for further expansion across Latin America.
The move marks another step in the brand’s international growth strategy as it seeks to strengthen its presence in global prime property markets.
FAVOURABLE TAX FRAMEWORK
Sorhuet, who has spent more than a decade advising clients across residential, development, land banking, and investment-focused real estate, sees the brand’s arrival as perfectly timed.
He says: “Uruguay is entering a new phase of international visibility. Foreign demand has grown significantly, especially in the luxury segment, and global mobility has increased. Introducing a brand with the prestige, reach, and refinement of Fine & Country is the right step at the right moment.”
Uruguay has increasingly attracted international attention from high-net-worth buyers thanks to its political stability, favourable tax framework and reputation as a safe lifestyle destination.
Demand for premium property is currently being driven by both domestic purchasers and overseas investors from countries including Argentina, Brazil, the United States and parts of Europe.
URBAN AND COASTAL
The country’s luxury property market spans both urban and coastal locations. The capital Montevideo remains popular with international families seeking stability and lifestyle benefits, particularly in districts such as Carrasco, Punta Carretas and Pocitos Nuevo.
Meanwhile, Punta del Este continues to draw global interest, with strong demand in areas including La Barra, José Ignacio and the Mansa and Brava waterfronts.
Beyond the cities, high-end rural estates – known locally as chacras – in regions such as Maldonado and Rocha have also gained popularity with buyers looking for privacy and space combined with contemporary architecture and high-quality infrastructure.
Sorhuet said the arrival of Fine & Country comes at a time when Uruguay is gaining greater visibility among international investors and lifestyle buyers.
PIVOTAL MOMENT
Nicky Stevenson, Managing Director of Fine & Country, says: “Expanding into South America marks a pivotal moment in Fine & Country’s global journey, and we are thrilled to take this step into Uruguay.
“Ignacio and Ana’s deep market expertise and commitment to excellence make them ideal partners to represent Fine & Country as we establish a strong and influential presence across the region.
“We look forward to supporting their growth as Uruguay continues to gain momentum on the world stage.”
MAIN PICTURE: (Left to right) Ana Sapelli; Sofia Sorhuet Sapelli and Ignacio Sorhuet.
