An Expat Talks about Moving to Palmas Del Mar Humacao , Puerto Rico

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Palmas Del Mar Humacao

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

Brought: Good knife set and favorite coffee mug. Left: Anything long sleeved or pretty rather than comfortable and sweater and windbreaker.

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Traveling Mailbox serves thousands of travelers, expats, digital nomads, businesses, individuals and others in over 47 Countries by scanning their postal mail so they can view it online anywhere in the world. They provide customer service 7 days a week so if you need assistance, it is just a phone call away. Traveling Mailbox works with Evernote, Bill.com and Dropbox. And, there are Traveling Mailbox apps available for iOS and Android devices.
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What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

Really need to come and stay awhile to see if you like the climate and area. We ended up buying in a place that has many rentals. If we decide in 3-5-10 years we like another area better we can always flip this to a rental. Three bedroom on beach was $213,000. Doing loan on line through Puerto Rican bank and speaking muy piquito Spanish was an adventure. Add Covid-19 and you increase the chocolate and wine factor!

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

Condo on beach. [Palmas del Mar is a] large resort area but still 3000 permanent residents equally distributed across age range from 1-87 years. Large % condo but houses available. Most expats live in condo villages.

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

Came and stayed for a month touring island. Last 3 days found the part we liked, so came back down and rented a condo there for 2 weeks. Arranged finances online and came down 3rd time to sign and move in.

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

Housing costs much lower but we moved from Seattle, WA. Any other locations in WA would be slightly lower for regular condo location and much lower for on water.