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Panama City, Panama

Real Estate in Panama

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 09, 2024

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Panama should begin by researching the different areas of the country and deciding which one best suits their needs. They should also research the local real estate market to get an idea of prices and availability. Foreigners are allowed to own property in Panama, but there are some restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to own land within 10 kilometers of the border or within 5 kilometers of the coast. Homes in Panama typically include amenities such as air conditioning, hot water, and a kitchen. Many homes also have a pool, terrace, and/or garden. Some homes may also include a garage, security system, and/or a generator.

Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)
Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)
Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)
Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)

How do I find a place to live in Panama?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Most good rentals are found through people you know. Ours was never advertised, only word of mouth. Good rentals are difficult to find," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Boquete.

"We wanted to live in a safe local neighborhood near the ocean. I listened to my friends who were already here and looked in those areas," explained one person living in Bocas del Toro, Panama.

"I made a visit here in August,stayed in a pretty basic place in el Cangrejo, and felt quite at home. It reminds me of Greenwich Village in NYC. I'll be staying in the same place for a month, plan to begin the Pensionado process with a recommended-by-expats att'y., and then move about 1 1/2 hrs.outside the city, coming back in as needed to complete the paperwork," said one expat in Panama City.

"Originally the view was unobstructed. But immediately around our apt. are schools, Atlapa, a large supermarket, a police station, community pool...things that will not get bought out and have a highrise pop up," remarked one member in Panama City.

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Kovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in PanamaKovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in Panama
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Kovalenko & Vera is a Panamanian law firm that specializes in immigration law, corporate law, real estate law, banking, contract negotiation, taxes and flag registry. With more than 20 years of professional practice, Kovalenko & Vera builds lasting relationships with our clients to ensure your interests are safeguarded.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Kovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in PanamaKovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in Panama

Kovalenko & Vera is a Panamanian law firm that specializes in immigration law, corporate law, real estate law, banking, contract negotiation, taxes and flag registry. With more than 20 years of professional practice, Kovalenko & Vera builds lasting relationships with our clients to ensure your interests are safeguarded.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Panama?

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Panama City, Panama

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