What does it take to build a house in Panama?
This is what I was able to get done in the last 12 months:
- Paint on the exterior walls.
- Interior walls erected on the second floor.
- The building permit, occupational permit, the power lined dropped and hooked up.
- Purchased a car!
It was a productive year, apparently. Although I didn't realize that until I took a look back and made a list of the year’s...
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I am normally a positive person who likes to focus on the good and positive in life and living. However, as we all know, nothing and no one is perfect. There is no Shangri-La place to live in the world. When choosing a place to live, whether it is to work or retire, it is best to do some research first. That is why I am writing this article for those of you looking to move to Panama. I have lived here in the Boquete area, in the Chiriquí Highlands for over 13...
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So, you want to build a house in Panama?
Be patient, be real patient. Everything will take longer than you are accustomed to. You will have to make many phone calls. You will need a Spanish speaking intermediary. You will be frustrated at times. There will be many times when you need to get a beer and go for a walk, and breathe. But, then all of a sudden, action!
I've been working on my house for 3 years now...
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In Panama healthcare is much more affordable, over- all, than in the USA. Of this, I am fairly certain. On the other hand, there is a serious need for health care reform in the insurance industry serving Panama. Not all expats are wealthy, not all can afford the high deductibles, and up to $2,000 plus monthly premiums many insurance companies require here. Medicare would be great if it were allowed, but alas, not available, even with the more affordable costs...
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Get ready for the delays, the costs, fees and cumbersome legal system of Panama. Here you find it wise to use an attorney for all kinds of transactions. However it isn't just the attorney you deal with, it is bureaucracy mumbo-jumbo and administrators! Many are like the angry, underpaid, middle managers of other places. They have a little power, so they love to abuse it!
I interviewed a young attorney that is just starting out. The government sets the...
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The decision to move abroad and join the thousands of expats who are living in Bocas del Toro is an exciting adventure. It can also be a bit overwhelming.There are a million questions and many decisions to make before you actually find yourself living in your own tropical paradise. One of the biggest questions is housing. Where will we live?
Renting can be a good first option for those wanting to take their time finding a permanent place. It is also great if you...
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Things I now know about driving in Panama! Finale! 
I recently got my car towed by the police! What I found out on that fateful day has been a real eye opener that I have decided to share, as many people, including me, will not be aware of these facts… 
walk the streets in Panama City when I first arrived. However, for me the experience reminded me of some Caribbean countries. The truth is, after one month in Panama City, I felt as if I was risking my life...
This story will cover the basics on buying or selling real estate in Panama, including the costs of buying or selling property and the conveyance process.