Guatemala Expat Forum

jfpnes
Joined 2018
Posts: 2

5 years ago

Have housing. What else should I know?

5 years ago

My partner and I are legally married here in the United States. He is a native of Guatemala. I am not. I doubt our marriage is recognized in Guatemala. But info I have is that residency for retirees with verifiable pensions is not a problem. Is that accurate?

Also, we already have a home there so no housing expenses. It's a large five bedroom house. What might approximate utilities be? We wish to make plumbing and bathroom renovations. What is it like to get a reasonable and reliable contractor.

My husband's nephew is a surgeon and part owner of a private hospital so we should receive excellent care. However, what insurance option is the best choice? I have medicare here but understand that means nothing in Guatemala.

What about prescription medications? In particular HIV related medications?

I understand hiring household help is inexpensive. Any tips to make that easier?

What about our retirement income? Can we have it deposited here in. US bank and withdraw local currency there as needed or does it work better to have a local bank? Any suggestions as to which banks are more friendly to those with incomes in US $?

We have investments that produce income but would prefer to leave them untouched. Is it reasonable to expect that we can live on our combined SS income which is about $3100 US$?

We want our own vehicle, though we may regularly hire a driver. We have always owned our vehicles outright free and clear of lenders.
Is it better to transport our vehicle there or buy one there? How does car insurance work in Guatemala?

Also, we don't want to be targeted as "rich" Should we consider hiring security? Our existing home is in a gated community with armed patrols. Is that enough or should we plan on more?

Sorry for this lengthy list. Please comment as you are able.

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Contribute
Help others in Guatemala by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Guatemala.