Real Estate in Panama

"One of the most popular ways to go about finding a place to live in Panama is to contact a real estate agent. Real estate agents have up-to-date databases on listings and can help you find something that fits your needs. Additionally, you can use online property listing services such as Pana Network and Encuentra24 to browse through property listings offered in Panama. You can narrow down your search by location, price, size, or amenities. You may also be able to find available rentals through online expat forums, social media, and other expatriate websites. You may want to consider visiting the location if possible to get a feel for the area and evaluate whether it meets your criteria," said one expat in Panama.

"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 member in Boquete.

"Expat homes and apartments in Panama tend to vary greatly depending on the location and the particular preferences of expats. They often feature high-end amenities, such as pools, terraces, and modern appliances. Most expat homes feature multiple bedrooms, large bathrooms and spacious kitchens. Expat apartments may be equipped with security measures and a concierge service as well. Some expats opt for homes or apartments that are located close to beaches or other tourist attractions, while others choose to live in more secluded locations. No matter the type of property chosen, expat homes and apartments in Panama tend to have comfortable, luxury appeal," said one person in Panama.

"Right now, my room is comparable in size to a prison cell, but it's clean, there is WiFi, a TV,a desk, a small fridge, and my own bathroom. (Only window is in the bathroom!) Oh, and a bed! A communal kitchen/lounge is available when wanted. Last night was as noisy as all get-out. Hope it won't be a regular thing-earplugs, perhaps. This area is VERY popular with expats; fortunately I know a few of them, so I have someone to advise and direct me, if I need help," said one expat who made the move to Panama City.

"In a highrise, and that was after living in a home, on the ground, in California. Never dreamed I'd be going vertical again. But it has safety advantages, especially in a building that has a good, stable reputation," explained one foreigner living in Panama City, Panama.

"I own/rent apartments in both Nueva Gorgona (Royal Palm -RP) and near Panama City/Panama Pacifico at Casa Bonita -CB. Given the two I like the Beach in Gorgona best - its really unique as it is in part a black volcanic rock beach that shimmers in the moonlight - amazing and fantastic- also I do like to cool off in the different pools there. People bash Gorgona because of proximity to shopping - I thinks its better proximity to shopping than Casa Bonita above. The last couple of times I stayed at CB there was oddly police men checking for a pass - to go the quicker "back way" to shop at Panama Pacifico (that you can buy for $5 but oddly again they can't process them fast enough for you to get one). CB is much closer and right across the americas bridge from Panama City. But going to Panama City (for me) is an all day event in traffic from CB. But that depends on planning around traffic. CB would be the place I would stay if I constantly needed advanced healthcare. Also there are pools at CB - you have to have a Pearl Club membership to swim and use the nice facilities there. Also I like CB to watch marine traffic and ships pass by going into the Canal. Also kind of funny story - Gorgona has dogs barking and cocks crowing all the time - but at CB I wake up to hear a howler monkey in the jungle - that the locals say is "just a dog" ? who's pulling who's leg. But anyway as far as square meter, beds bathrooms both places are very comparable," said one in Nueva Gorgona.

"We are renting a home. It is typical housing; concrete outside. This home has a lot of wood including ceilings. We just paid for an exterminator to gas the house. It is large. It has 4 bedrooms, one barely larger than a closet. The kitchens in older homes have no drawers. Think table service settings. Small countertop, limited storage in overhead cabinets. My eating area has steel shelving that I brought from the US. It provides storage for the mixer, baking equipment extra dishes and bowls. It's has a very Restoration Hardware look about it. I think that new construction has limited storage space as well. If you have books or dvds, buy shelving. Linen closets often don't exist. I store my linens and fabric in antique suitcases. Even if you buy kitchenware in Panama, you have to store it somewhere," explained one expat in Alto Boquete.

"Our rent (including electric, gas and high-speed internet) is less than half of just our mortgage in S. Florida. Tip: if internet is important to you, don't ask, "do you have internet" since everyone can get it. Ask, "what speed internet can I get and how much does it cost?" We pay about $50 for 5G megs mo. Five minutes away it is $150 for 1meg," said one person in Boquete.

"Electricity more, especially when fuel prices soar. Cable is same. No ppty taxes, but now have $400 a month maintenance in the bldg, which includes water, garbage, common area items. When I look at check registers from California, I'm reminded that we paid a monthly (smaller) fee, but paid for garbage removal, gardener for back yard, all utilities, cable, phone. Here I can live with a cell phone only," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Panama City.

"The cost of housing in Panama tends to vary depending on the location and type of property. Generally speaking, prices for apartments or condos range from moderate to expensive, with smaller units costing significantly less than luxury homes. On average, rental fees in urban locations can start as low as $500 while more upscale dwellings can range up to over $2,000 per month," explained one person living in Panama.

"We decided to rent. We sold everything we had in the US and want the freedom to move if we are ever inclined to do that. We rent furnished and love not worrying about maintenance or replacement of anything. Buying abroad can be tricky and I would encourage anyone buying to do due diligence. As for us, we are happy renting," said one expat in Nueva Gorgona.

"We bought our home and turned half of it into a vacation rental (Tres Terrazas). We used an attorney for this as we were conducting the purchase from the states with emails, faxes, federal express and bank deposits. Not really that difficult but we had a great attorney," remarked one member in Taboga Island.

"Yes. a condo. Process is kind of sloppy. A bit tricky. Need a good attorney. a lot of patience," explained one expat living in Panama City, Panama.

"When considering whether to buy or rent a home in Panama, it is important to consider a few factors such as budget, timeline, and lifestyle. Purchasing a home of your own can be a great investment and can provide much stability if you are planning on settling in Panama for a long period of time. However, if you are looking for short-term housing or don't have the budget for a purchase, renting can be a more cost-effective and flexible option. Ultimately, what is best for you will depend on your situation and goals," said one person in Panama.

"I rented a house. At first I made the mistake of letting a local person insert himself between the owner of the house and me. Money got diverted. Now I'm looking to rent a bedroom only, trying for 80 to 100 dollars per month. Shouldn't be difficult. But mind you, I don't mind living in abject poverty," said one expat who made the move to Las Tablas.

"DO your due diligence, engage a realtor who A - speaks English, B-is responsive and pro-active, where EVER you are calling them from. KNOW what you are looking for (we made a LIST of 'must haves' and 'must NOT haves'! We found our DREAM here," said one person in San Carlos.

"Some years ago the government passed laws limiting "visitor" stays to maximum of 3 months. Property owners apply for and can be granted residency status which may take some time and $$$$, but is a must if the property here will be your primary home," explained one person living in San Carlos, Panama.

"Foreigners have the same property rights as Panamanians, with one exception. Foreigners are not allowed to own property in their own name within 10 kilometers of the border of Costa Rica. Of course, there are still legal ways to have your dream beach house! ROP properties are not included in this rule, since they are not technically "owned" and Titled properties can be held in a Panamanian Corporation or Foundation that is set up properly for this. Another reason to hire a competent attorney," explained one person living in Puerto Armuelles, Panama.

"We live in Panama City, and rent a furnished 1 bedroom condo, in a nice 35 story high-rise in Bella Vista. Washer/dryer stackable, fridge/freezer combo, gas burner stove top, and stove. Small microwave. This is typical most places we looked at. What we don't have: dishwasher. Most places do not have. We are adding one to our new condo waiting to be built. We also bought an airfryer on Amazon. Very handy. I would pick up a dehumidifier for your unit, if it does not come with one. Will help cut down on mildew. ," explained one expat in Panama.

"Rental properties in Panama commonly include kitchen appliances such as refrigerator, oven and stove, common laundry appliances such as washer and dryer, air conditioning units, fans and window screens to keep out insects, and occasionally furnishings, depending on the agreement between the tenant and the landlord. Additionally, it is common practice for landlords to provide households with basic, essential utilities such as water, electricity and internet," explained one person living in Panama.

"Keller Williams Realty Panama is one of the best countrywide real estate companies in Panama and they are aactive listing on the MLS, called ACOBIR in Panama. Debbie Fishell is an active Keller Williams associate who works primarily in the Chiriqui province [email protected]. There is a good site on the up and coming area of Puerto Armuelles called visitPuertoArmuelles.com, which has a classified section with some for sale by owner properties," said one expat in Puerto Armuelles.

"There is a website used by many real estate people and individuals that put their house/condo etc. up for sale and rent. The site is https://www.encuentra24.com/panama-es/clasificados . It covers all of Panama so it is best to know where it is you are interested in buying. It took us 3 years of traveling throughout Panama to find where we wanted to settle. Good luck with your search," said one foreigner living in Panama.