Real Estate in Panama City, Panama
Last updated on Mar 03, 2023
Summary: The most desirable neighborhoods in Panama City, Panama are Punta Pacifica, Costa del Este, San Francisco, and El Cangrejo. The average cost to buy a nice 2 bedroom home in Panama City is around $200,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $300,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Panama City, however, there are certain restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to purchase property within a certain distance of the Panama Canal or within a certain distance of the border. When searching for a home to buy in Panama City, it is important to research the area and the neighborhood. It is also important to work with a reputable real estate agent who is familiar with the area and the local market. Additionally, it is important to get a home inspection to ensure that the property is in good condition.
How do I find a place to live in Panama City?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Panama City is to use online resources such as websites like Encuentra24.com, PanamaRealEstate.com, and PanamaLiving.com. These websites offer a variety of listings for apartments, houses, and condos in Panama City. Additionally, you can also search for rental properties on popular real estate websites such as Zillow and Trulia. Additionally, you can also contact a local real estate agent or property management company to help you find a place to live in Panama City," remarked one member 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," explained one expat living in Panama City, Panama.
"You will find that Albrook is much nicer than Panama City, but close enough to the City for recreation and business. After almost 30 years in Panama, I chose Albrook for my place to live about 14 years ago. It is not included in any of the relocation tours, although it should be in my opinion. If you are interested in finding out about Albrook, please send me a private message. I also have a very nice room for rent in my house and can send you info on that also if you are interested," said one person in Panama City.
"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 who made the move to Panama City.
"We live in Costa del Este because we wanted to be very close to services without being in a noisy city and we also like to walk and Costa del Este is a beautiful place with wide sidewalks and beautiful landscaping," explained one foreigner living in Panama City, Panama.
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The Business Panama Group is a well-established group of companies, professionals and alliance partners with 20 years of experience promoting and facilitating business, investments, real estate, immigration and tourism in Panama by providing information, business development and support services to individual and corporate investors.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
The Business Panama Group is a well-established group of companies, professionals and alliance partners with 20 years of experience promoting and facilitating business, investments, real estate, immigration and tourism in Panama by providing information, business development and support services to individual and corporate investors.
Connect
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 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," said one person in Panama City.
The Business Panama Group is a well-established group of companies, professionals and alliance partners with 20 years of experience promoting and facilitating business, investments, real estate, immigration and tourism in Panama by providing information, business development and support services to individual and corporate investors.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
The Business Panama Group is a well-established group of companies, professionals and alliance partners with 20 years of experience promoting and facilitating business, investments, real estate, immigration and tourism in Panama by providing information, business development and support services to individual and corporate investors.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What is the average cost of housing in Panama City?
If you are thinking about moving to Panama City, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"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," said one person in Panama City.
"The cost of housing in Panama City can vary greatly depending on the area and type of property. Generally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $800 to $1,000 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment in the suburbs can cost around $1,200 to $1,500 per month. Prices for larger homes and luxury properties can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per month," said one expat who made the move to Panama City.
"Panama prices are still low but not like advertised by different websites. The retirement (jubilado) discount is interesting but not fully discounted as advertised, it's not 25% on the total electric bill, it's 25% of the of a portion of the electricity used so far away from 25% of total bill. Hotels are discounted by 25% but from their highest price so if a hotel is showing a special price of $100/night, you won't get 25% off $100, you will get 25% of their regular price that maybe around $150 so you better use their special rare and not applying your jubilado discount. For restaurants, the 25% discount worth it but it's not 25% off the total bill, it's 15 to 25% on portion of the bill but still worth it. Condo/house purchase or rental are cheaper. Food is not cheaper then the USA and even higher so if you buy locally food, you will save but limited on your choice. If you buy some food products from the USA, you will pay full price....higher then the USA. Panama is hot and Humid besides if you live in the mountains but there are negative aspects to it. My wife and I live in Panama and we like it so this message is not to sugar coat Panama but to be realistic. We like Panama, people are very friendly with no crazy politic discussions. You don't hear about shooting here and there on daily basis, it is safe and quiet place. They use the US currency, it's not to far away from the USA so it's interesting," explained one foreigner living in Panama City, Panama.
Should I buy or rent a home in Panama City?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Panama City, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Panama City can be a great investment. The city is growing rapidly and real estate prices are on the rise. Renting a home in Panama City can also be a great option, as it allows you to experience the city without the commitment of buying. It is important to consider your budget and lifestyle when deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Panama City," said one person in Panama City.
"Yes. a condo. Process is kind of sloppy. A bit tricky. Need a good attorney. a lot of patience," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Panama City.
What do I need to know when buying property in Panama City?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Panama City, they said:
"1. It is important to research the area you are interested in buying property in, as different neighborhoods have different characteristics and amenities. 2. It is also important to understand the local laws and regulations regarding property ownership, as well as any taxes or fees associated with purchasing property. 3. It is recommended to hire a local lawyer to help you navigate the legal process of buying property in Panama City. 4. It is also important to consider the cost of living in Panama City, as well as the availability of public transportation, healthcare, and other services. 5. Lastly, it is important to understand the local currency and how it affects the cost of living and purchasing property in Panama City," said one person in Panama City.
Are foreigners allowed to own property in Panama City?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Panama City, they said...
"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Panama City. The Panamanian government has established a legal framework that allows foreign individuals and companies to purchase and own real estate in Panama. Foreigners can purchase property in their own name or through a Panamanian corporation. The process of purchasing property in Panama is relatively straightforward and can be completed in a few weeks," said one expat in Panama City.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Panama City what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"In Panama City, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Additionally, some properties may include air conditioning units, dishwashers, and microwaves," said one foreigner living in Panama City, Panama.
Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Panama City:
We asked foreigners in Panama City what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...
"Expats can search for homes in Panama City by looking online for real estate listings, contacting local real estate agents, and searching for rental listings on websites such as Airbnb and VRBO. Additionally, expats can look for housing options in local newspapers and magazines, or ask friends and family who have lived in Panama City for recommendations," said one person in Panama City.
About the Author
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.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Panama City?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Panama City?
- What is the average cost of housing in Panama City?
- How do I meet people in Panama City?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Panama City?
- What should I pack when moving to Panama City?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Panama City?
- Will I be able to find a job in Panama City?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Panama City?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Panama City?
- What is the social scene like in Panama City?
- What advice to expats in Panama City have about housing?
- What are medical services in Panama City like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Panama City?
- Is the cost of living in Panama City high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Panama City?
- Why do people move to Panama City?