What advice to expats in Santa Marta have about housing?

When we asked people living in Santa Marta about the social scene there, they described it saying...

"Do not buy in Colombia: it will be your worst nightmare. Rent so you can walk away and so the local owner will (and does) take care of everything from internet to gas to utilities," remarked another expat in Santa Marta, Colombia.

Other Questions:

What do I need to know before moving to Santa Marta?
How do I find a place to live in Santa Marta?
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Santa Marta?
What is the average cost of housing in Santa Marta?
Should I buy or rent a home in Santa Marta?
What should I pack when moving to Santa Marta?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Santa Marta?
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Santa Marta?
What are healthcare services like in Santa Marta?
Is the cost of living in Santa Marta high?
Will I save money living in Santa Marta?
Why do people move to Santa Marta?
What are healthcare services like in Santa Marta?
What are medical services in Santa Marta like?

What advice to expats in Santa Marta have about housing?

If you live in Santa Marta, newcomers to Santa Marta would love to hear your answer to this question: