The best value in washing machines is a semi-automatic SINGLE tub model, something like a US washing machine but somewhat smaller, and a whole lot lighter.
Its single tub is still a lot bigger than that of the 2 tub models, and has the added convenience of not having to put the clothes into the 2nd, smaller tub for spinning.
Two years ago, with the exchange rate at 16:1, the model to which I refer had a best price of about 4200 pesos. A 2-tub model cost about 2500, but did not compare to the other one. I ABSOLUTELY would not give a 2-tub model to anyone - if the recipient is worth the gift of a washing machine she is worth the extra money for a good one.
Its vertical profile is roughly square (slightly rounded corners), about 20 inches on a side. It just fits into one end of a shower, good for saving space and letting any overflow drain harmlessly into the shower rather than onto the floor. It's light enough that even a woman can lift it over the "lip" (is that the right word) of the shower.
There is still plenty of room in a standard shower to take a shower. The unused washing machine is the perfect height for a shelf that would be needed anyway - as a holder for soap, razor, shower cap, and panties (Dominicana wash cloth).
This style/size washing machine is a nobrainer. One manufacturer is LG, I think (green buttons). Plaza Lama is an excellent place to buy it. In Santiago, there is a store at the corner of Calle del Sol and Espana (I think, if not, then it's the next corner south, toward the monument). Elektra also has good deals sometimes.
Getting it home is no problem. For a few pesos more than for yourself, a pick-up taxi will take the both of you.
Edited to add:
On 2nd thought, I think it was a Samsung; anyway works great.
