Property buyers 'should look beyond Panama City'

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

People looking for a property to buy in Panama should be willing to consider homes in locations outside Panama City.

This is the advice of International Living Magazine, which noted there is a "world of choice" for those who explore beyond the country's main metropolis.

According to the publication, destinations such as Boquete are a good choice, with this town in the highlands singled out because it boasts a favourable, year-round climate, as well as being within easy reach of Panama City.

Meanwhile, those looking for a bargain Panama property may want to consider Volcan, another highland settlement where homes are available for as little as $50,000 (£31,900). Coronado, situated on Panama's coast, is another option for buyers and is recommended for people seeking a beachside house.

Last month, Kent Davis, of Panama Equity Real Estate, told the Panama Report that 2012 will be a "buyer's market", predicting price falls in Panama City over the next 12 months. However, he anticipated real estate values will start to climb again in 2013.

Is now a good time to buy Panama property?

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The latter part of 2012 could be the right time to invest in real estate in Panama, with one expert in the country expecting property prices to begin to rise from 2013.

In an article for The Panama Report, Kent Davis, from Panama Equity Real Estate, explained that values are likely to fall by between 10 and 20 per cent in Panama City this year, largely as a result of the number of construction projects coming to an end.

However, he went on to predict that prices will pick up again in 2013, and this will happen "in a manner never seen before due in part to a completely modernised transport system and increased revenue from an expanded Panama Canal".

Mr Davis added it will "most definitely be a buyer's market" in the country over the next 12 months, highlighting areas such as Amador Causeway and the beach district near San Carlos as places where price appreciation is most likely.

Earlier this month, features editor of Caribbean World Magazine Sarah Woods suggested Bocas del Toro in Panama could be a good place to look for a real estate investment.

She stated: "Pretty much the entire Caribbean is good value right now", adding many buyers are turning to the southern and central regions along the Caribbean Sea with the aim of finding "dirt-cheap deals".
 

Panama 'a top destination for retirees'

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Panama has been named among the most desirable destinations for people to retire to by a new study.

Reuters reported on the Retirement Index 2012 released by International Living magazine, which cited the South American nation among the top three places in the world to live after retirement.

One of the reasons why buying a property in Panama may be an attractive prospect is the low cost of living in the country, one expert claimed.

Speaking to the news provider, special projects editor for International Living magazine Dan Prescher commented: "The proposition is that you can live better for less, and not sacrifice anything, if at all, in quality of life and still live on half or less of what your cost of living would be in the US or Canada."

Panama is not only a good place for retirees, with a recent International Living survey describing the nation as "the most business-friendly country for expatriates anywhere in the Americas".

Factors such as market opportunities, access to finance and the ease of start-up were all taken into account, along with the cost of leasing or buying commercial property.
 

Bocas del Toro 'a Panama real estate investment opportunity'

Fri, 6 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Investors looking at real estate in Panama may want to consider the province of Bocas del Toro.

This is according to Caribbean World Magazine features editor Sarah Woods, who says while the whole of the Caribbean is offering "good value" at the moment due to the global economic downturn, particularly favourable deals can be found in the southern and central parts of the region.

"Anywhere where the middle class has purchased - as opposed to the filthy rich - is ripe for investment, as the secondary market is keenly priced due to people being over-stretched and ready to exit the market," she explains.

Bocas del Toro includes part of mainland Panama - which is situated in the far south of the Caribbean on the South American continent - and numerous islands. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

While there are few official statistics relating to house prices in the country, figures from Global Property Guide suggest 120 sq m inland apartments in Panama City cost around $2,128 (£1,364) per square metre to purchase, dropping to $1,705 and $1,689 per square metre for 200 and 300 sq m flats respectively.

Rental yields for these properties generally stand between 8.9 and 9.2 per cent.

Panama City 'a top location' for property investment

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Panama City has been named as one of the best locations in the world for investors seeking a buy-to-let (BTL) property.

According to research conducted by Global Property Guide, residential real estate in Panama offers good returns and "excellent" long-term investment prospects.

The organisation pointed out that annual rental yields from housing in Panama City currently stand at 9.08 per cent, which makes it an attractive prospect for BTL investors.

Retirees are often attracted to Panama due to the raft of benefits offered to pensioners in the nation.

Among them are a 30 per cent discount on bus, boat and train journeys, a 15 per cent reduction on the cost of dental and eye exams and half-price access to a range of entertainment, including cinemas, theatres and sporting events.

US citizens in particular are drawn to Panama as a retirement destination due to its proximity to their home country and the cheaper cost of living.
 

'Good potential' for investment in Panama property

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The strength of the economy in Panama, coupled with its expansion plans for the canal, mean that the country could prove to be a good place for real estate investments.

Matt Landau, founder of ThePanamaReport.com, asserted that "investing in Panama real estate represents high potential, with comparatively puny risks".

He stressed that one of the most important things for those buying a property in Panama to look out for is the property title. Mr Landau advised using a good lawyer, as well as a translator, when carrying out any transactions in the country.

Among the reasons highlighted for investors to consider entering the real estate sector was Panama's economic growth - with Mr Landau noting that it is expanding faster than any other nation in Latin America - in addition to its low unemployment and government initiatives to improve infrastructure.

Retirees hoping to escape to the sunshine may also want to consider the merits of buying a property in Panama, with International Living recently naming the country one of the top three places in the world for those no longer working due to the benefits package offered to pensioners.
 

'Many reasons' to consider investing in Panama property

Tue, 6 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

There are numerous advantages to buying a property in Panama as an investment, one local expert has noted.

Founder of ThePanamaReport.com Matt Landau commented that the country "offers an attractive blend of developing world opportunity and first world security".

Legally, foreigners are afforded the same rights as locals when it comes to owning property, while the government has also introduced a number of schemes to encourage people to invest in real estate here.

Among them are providing a special visa for small investors, as well as exemption from tax for 20 years, Mr Landau explained.

He also pointed out that the infrastructure in Panama is strong, while the country uses the US dollar as its currency, which is seen as an advantage by most who invest in the nation.

Last month, International Living named Panama as the third best place in the world to spend your later years in its Annual Retirement Index.

The pensioner's benefit package - available to both locals and foreigners - is one of the main things that sets the country apart, the organisation claimed.
 

Panama 'a top location for retirement abroad'

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Panama has a lot to offer older people looking for somewhere to retire overseas, the latest edition of the International Living Annual Retirement Index has revealed.

According to the publication, the Central American nation is the third best place in the world to move to once you have finished work.

The news provider noted that one of the reasons buying a property in Panama is popular among the older generation is its pensioners' programme, which offers a host of benefits to those over retirement age.

Under the scheme, senior citizens are eligible for discounts on a range of expenses, including cinema tickets, public transport and medical care.

However, the country has slipped in the global rankings from last year, when it secured the second spot.

International Living takes a variety of factors into consideration when compiling its index, including healthcare, climate, real estate prices, culture, the cost of living, safety and stability.
 

Panama property could be popular with Brits

Tue, 31 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Individuals looking for property in Panama have been told that beach homes in Coronado are particularly popular.

Alternatively, Gorgona is another place that savvy buyers are finding opportunities within.

"There's a growing expat community here and even a new international school. Best of all, the real estate is much less expensive … as much as 50 per cent less than in Coronado," International Living reports.

The news provider explains that a plot of land about 6,000 square feet in size can be purchased for just $25,000.

"Considering it's just five minutes from the beach and boasts municipal water and power lines, this property is a steal."

Meanwhile, a growing number of older Britons are planning to relocate abroad by 2012, new research from the Centre for Future Studies has revealed.

The organisation notes that as well as the traditional overseas destinations favoured by emigrating Brits, a number of more leftfield locations are now cropping up, such as Panama.

Panama proving popular with emigrating Brits

Mon, 23 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A growing number of older Britons are planning to relocate abroad by 2012, new research from the Centre for Future Studies has revealed.

The organisation notes that as well as the traditional overseas destinations favoured by emigrating Brits, a number of more leftfield locations are now cropping up.

Indeed, the Daily Telegraph also recently highlighted the increase in the number of Brits buying property in Panama.

The Central American country's relaxed banking laws, excellent climate and picturesque coastline have proved irresistible for a number of Brits, the news provider explained.

It added: "The majority settle along the Pacific Coast near the capital, Panama City, in Coronado, Punta Chame, Gorgona and Rio Mar, where new-build apartments with sea views are as little as £80,000.

"The exclusive Punta Pacifica district has architect-designed condos with concierge services. Two-bed new-build units sell for £225,000."

In addition, property buyers will benefit from the fact that the country has generous tax legislation, no capital gains tax and no inheritance tax. 

Panama named as top destination for investment in 2011

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Panama has been named as one of the top ten worldwide destinations to invest in property this year, it has been revealed.

According to experts at Write About Property, the Central American country is likely to benefit from rapid improvements being made by the US economy.

In recent years the country's real estate market has benefited from its popularity with retirees from the US, with many looking to buy property in Panama.

Added to this, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has made some positive forecasts about its economic growth over the coming year, the news provider reports.

Panama's economy is predicted to continue expansion, as it has done throughout the global crisis, with the IMF stating that it will show 6.2 per cent growth this year, and 6.7 per cent next year.

"With the Panama Canal - which along with the Colon Free Trade Zone accounts for three-quarters of Panama GDP - still proceeding towards 2014 completion, global investment in Panama will soar as the world economy recovers," the news provider stated.

Panama set to lead economic growth in Latin America

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Panama is leading the way in terms of economic growth in Central America.

Indeed, the IMF claims that the nation will be at the forefront of Latin American growth through until 2015.

The strengthening of its economy comes as a result of ambitious investment in the country's infrastructure and development as well as plans to expand the Panama Canal.

Panama's economic activity rose 6.24 per cent in July, well above the expected five per cent and has posted growth for the past 11 months.

This strong growth has meant that the emerging country is fast becoming a haven for multinational corporations, real estate developers and travellers, IMF added.

And the Panama Guide backed this up with reports that, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, direct foreign investment grew 26 per cent in the first part of this year.

"Between the expansion of the Canal and the continuing double-digit increases in tourism, it's hard to see how Panama won't become Latin America's greatest success story," says Benjamin Loomis, developer of a new Panama real estate project.

Cheap and competitive property prices in Panama

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The fact that land is available at competitive prices and that there are large outdoor spaces to be enjoyed makes Panama an attractive destination for those considering purchasing a property overseas.

An article on PR-USA.net highlights that there are many benefits to purchasing real estate for sale in Panama, including the ocean views on offer, the chance to see exotic animals and the security offered by a stable government and low crime rate.

However, it is the low costs of the property available that may swing the decision for a person close to making a purchase.

The article explained: "Not only is this real estate in Panama for sale beautiful and relaxing, but it is also cheap which makes this real estate in Panama for sale up for grabs by just about anyone.

"Panama is also one of the best investment destinations with land priced at competitive rates, so looking into Panama real estate for sale will prove worthwhile."

Meanwhile, it is additionally noted that the cost of living in the country is especially low and that outdoor activities such as scuba diving and exploring rain forests can be completed.

International Living suggested earlier this year that property prices were being driven down in Panama as a result of the economic crisis.

Economic crisis driving prices down in Panama

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Foreign investors who want to get their hands on a property in a sun-drenched tropical paradise may want to consider looking at the coast of Panama.

The province of Boca del Toro is located on the western coast of the Central American country and has the fasted growing economy per consumer in the region.

According to a report by International Living, the economic crisis has meant that real estate prices in the country have begun to fall, making the dream of owning property more of a reality.

The article draws attention to the forthcoming Panama Canal expansion project, stating that it is expected to help bolster the country's growing economy.

And one reason that it was recently named as the "growth champion" in the region by Latin Business Chronicle in its five-year growth forecast.

Individuals looking to invest in the country may be interested to note that the Panamanian government offers potential tourists a host of tax and price discounts to encourage them to visit the country.

Property in England sees price increases

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Property prices in England and Wales have shot up by 5.2 per cent in the space of a year, according to new Land Registry figures.

In news that points towards the continued resurgence of the housing market in the country, the cost of property in January this year posted gains in comparison to 2009.

It represents one of the largest monthly increases that the registry has reported since growth began again midway through last year and is the second consecutive month that the figure has been positive.

Some of the biggest rises were seen in the south-west region of the country.

A spokesperson for the Land Registry told Reuters: "While not all regions are recovering at the same rate, it is clear that overall prices are increasing."

According to a recent report conducted by property developer Knight Frank, sales of newly-completed projects in London rose by a staggering 214 per cent during the final quarter of 2009, compared with the previous year.

Panama tipped as long-term prospect

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Panama has been tipped to be one of the best property investment destinations in 2010.

Expert Liam Bailey stated in a list of the top places to buy for Write about Property that the country should see the resumption of annual economic growth of ten per cent in 2011.

He added that the main driver of this will be the expansion of the Panama Canal, trebling the amount of shipping it can deal with.

Another factor Mr Bailey noted was the fact that the country is the most popular overseas retirement destination for Americans.

Both residential apartments on long-term lets or holiday residences rented out for shorter periods of time will do well, he stated.

A poll of Latin American property professionals earlier this year found that the majority thought Panama had weathered the economic downturn well.

The Encuentra24.com Real Estate and Classifieds survey revealed that 66 per cent believed the credit crunch had "barely" impacted on the property market there, with another 12 per cent saying it had no affect at all.

Economic slump 'having little effect on Panama'

Wed, 2 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Panama's property market is largely unaffected by the world economic downturn, according to a poll of Latin American property professionals.

The Encuentra24.com Real Estate and Classifieds listings portal survey of experts found that 66 per cent said the crisis is "barely" impacting on the country, with a further 12 per cent suggesting it is having no consequences at all.

Only a minority (39 per cent) said there was more rental property than demand required, something that could be good news for those investing with this aim in mind.

However, at the moment only six per cent of overseas property buyers are European, the experts said.

This could mean that UK buyers of overseas property are missing out on prospects in the Central American country.

Last year it was stated that British interest in the country as a property destination rose after the story of John Darwin, the man who fled to the country with his wife Anne using life insurance payouts after faking his own death.

Property editor of Buy Association Paul Collins said the event put the country "on the radar" for ordinary UK investors, although more serious buyers had known about it for some time.

Now is best time to buy in Panama, says expert

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Now is a good time to buy property in Latin American countries such as Panama, an expert in Canada has said.

Writing in the Vancouver Sun, Tom Kelly, a US-based author of two books on buying real estate in the region, stated that Panama "is a bargain right now," although he added that "it costs money to get there".

Mr Kelly was aiming his remarks at Canadian buyers on the basis that the country has been hit less hard by the recession than the US.

However, in comments that may be relevant to UK buyers as well, he suggested that the best time to get bargains is while the US is in the doldrums, as prices in Latin America will rise when it recovers and more people from the country are able to buy overseas.

Earlier this month, founder of US developer Amble Resorts Ben Loomis remarked that the "growth and stability" of Panama makes it attractive for investors.

He commented that the expansion of the Panama Canal is one major factor in the country's economic strength.
 

Panama tipped for further growth

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The

market has been tipped to grow strongly, with a US developer describing it as one of the best prospects in the Latin American region.

Ben Loomis, the founder and president of Amble Resorts, said the country offers a well-run economy and is on course for strong economic and property market growth, due to a favourable trade agreement with the US and an expansion of the Panama Canal.

Explaining the decision of the firm to build a new development that includes a number of holiday homes, Mr Loomis remarked: "Although the economic climate is not the only reason we chose to build our property in Panama, we were definitely attracted to the growth and stability there."

The company is creating it as an eco resort, noting that this is aimed at tapping into the growth of green tourism in the country.

Earlier this month Nuwire Investor predicted that due to the country's growth, Panamanian property will increase to between two and five times its present value in the next five to 15 years.

Growing Panamanian property investment destination highlighted

Thu, 9 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Chiriqui in Panama is a growing location for property investment, it has been claimed.

It has been selected as one of the best emerging coastal regions in the world for purchasing homes in a list published on Write-about-property.com, with properties available for just over GBP50,000.

The article noted that Panama is expected to experience growth of three per cent this year in spite of the global economic downturn, followed by an expansion rate of four per cent in 2010.

Additionally, the source explained, the Panama Canal is being expanded "to become one of the most important transport waterways in the southern hemisphere", making the country a centre for investment.

A popular destination for US holidaymakers and retirees because of its dollarised economy, the website forecasts that property price will double by 2014 and may treble over the coming five to seven years.

Located in the west of Panama, the province of Chiriqui has a Pacific Ocean coastline and its economy is based on agricultural and cattle production, with the tourism industry taking off in recent years.

Panama 'provides incentives to foreign investors'

Tue, 7 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Panama offers overseas property investors a range of benefits and provides easy access to South America, it has been claimed.

According to the Daily Telegraph, the country is "booming" and is attracting a growing number of buyers, with the government offering incentives for those purchasing offshore homes.

Highlighting the "favourable climate" and the "abundance of flora and fauna", Richard McColl explained that Panama has been a "model of stability" since military dictator Manuel Noriega was overthrown in 1989.

He noted that a growing number of people are choosing to retire there and quoted estate agent Jaime Figueroa, who praised Panama's infrastructure, including Tocumen International airport.

Celebrities such as Mel Gibson and Sean Connery have bought properties in Panama and other stars are expected to do so, with a government recently elected that is "ambitious and overtly friendly and open to foreign investors".

Panama was settled by the Spanish in the 16th century, breaking away to join the Republic of Gran Colombia in 1821 and seceding from Colombia in 1903 with support from the US.

Panama property development 'hit by credit crunch'

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Development of property in Panama is decreasing as a result of the credit crunch limiting the spending power of construction firms in the country, it has been claimed.

According to the Panama Star, many projects have been either scaled down or stopped completely due to a lack of buyers, with the high-end real estate market being particularly badly affected.

And as a result, many buyers who invested in apartments in the country in order to make a profit may find themselves with a shortage of buyers.

Housing minister Gabriel Diez told the news source that "luxurious condominiums" were mainly targeted by foreign buyers, who are no longer seeking to purchase homes in Panama in the current economic climate.

However, he expressed optimism for the market in the future, stating that the impact may be reduced if developers switch to constructing low-cost homes.

The news signals a shift from the positive outlook the Panama market experienced in late 2008, when a Daily Telegraph report noted that "straightforward" acquisition of property in the country was making it popular with investors.

In Panama, Donald Trump's Ocean Club is taking shape

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

No downsizing here: The Trump Ocean Club in Panama City's Punta Pacifica area is taking shape.  Recent pictures posted over at the Panama Investor Blog show the project well underway.  You can't see the sail-like structure yet but the project is out of the ground. The celebrity factor Easily the highest profile project in Panama...

Panama 'growing in interest'

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Panama has seen a notable growth in interest from potential buyers, it has been stated.

Gareth Milton from Propertyshowrooms.com told the Daily Telegraph: "The country is attracting 150 per cent more inquiries on our portal than this time last year," adding that the country is cheaper to buy in than the US and the process of acquiring property is "very straightforward".

The paper stated that the country offers not just affordability, but good healthcare, a stable economy, low crime and highly attractive scenery.

It is also set for new economic development as the Panama Canal - which links the Atlantic and Pacific oceans - is set to be widened.

Paul Collins, the property editor of overseas investor magazine BuyAssociation.co.uk, said in August that there had been a major increase in interest from potential UK buyers once Britons started to consider the country.

He said a catalyst was the case of John Darwin, the man who faked his own death and set up home with his wife in Panama using money from the insurance payout.
 

Construction progressing on Trump project in Panama City

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Pictures posted on Panama Investor Blog show construction progressing rapidly on the Trump Ocean Club, one of the bellwether residential towers in Panama City. “Looks like much of the parking garage is completed and soon they will start on the hotel, casino and apartments,” Sam Taliaferro reports. With skepticism mounting about the Panama City tower market...

Panama investment 'could be lucrative'

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Overseas property buyers could find Panama a highly lucrative investment market, industry analysts have said.

According to FC Exchange, the Central American country is a less mature market than many European nations, such as Switzerland and France.

This, it stated, means that it is experiencing a much higher rate of house price inflation.

As a result, foreign property buyers who do not want a long-term investment could find Panama a suitable location to consider.

Nick Fullerton, managing director of FC Exchange, commented: "If you're looking for a quick return, there's no point looking in mature markets where any growth is now very slow."

He added that while emerging markets can offer a higher degree of risk to property buyers, the rewards can potentially be much greater.

This comes after analysts at Amberlamb stated that the "world and his wife" have become aware of the investment potential in the Central American country.

 

Panama set to become more popular

Fri, 8 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Panama has been tipped to become a hotspot of activity among overseas property buyers over the next few months.

According to the BuyAssociation website, the Central American country has attracted high levels of media coverage in recent months as a result of the John Darwin case.

Mr Darwin faked his own death in a canoeing accident four years ago in order to enjoy a new life overseas with his wife.

However, the attempted fraud was recently exposed, prompting many media outlets to highlight what lifestyle attractions made Panama an attractive destination for the couple.

BuyAssociation believes its recent high profile could trigger additional interest in the country among foreign property buyers and expats.

Paul Collins, property editor at the website, commented: "Before this whole thing started, a lot of people didn't really consider Panama as a viable destination for moving overseas."

He stated that consumers are now more aware of the fact that Panama City in particular is a modern location which offers favourable exchange rates.

 

Panama 'gaining more attention'

Thu, 7 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The potential advantages of investing in property in Panama have been growing thanks to the recent case of a couple who moved there after an insurance scam, it has been stated...

Panama 'offers cheap property'

Thu, 7 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Overseas property buyers may be able to snap up a relative bargain in Panama, a media outlet has stated.

According to the Guardian, a typical apartment in the South American country can cost as little as £30,000.

Meanwhile, a two-bedroom flat in Panama City, complete with gym and swimming pool, can sell for about £75,000.

Commenting on the market, the Guardian observed: "Even in the current downward spiral of the UK housing market, Panama's property remains a bargain by a long way."

The newspaper said the country also offers a number of lifestyle attractions, such as good beaches and sunny weather all year round.

Furthermore, it stated that Panama has a favourable tax regime and good healthcare provision, attributes which have made it a popular spot for retirees.

This comes after analysts at Amberlamb stated that the "world and his wife" have become aware of the investment potential in the Central American country.
 

Panama attracts more British investors

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Interest in emerging markets such as Panama among overseas property buyers in on the increase, experts have revealed.

According to research by HiFX, fewer British investors are seeking opportunities in established European markets, including Italy and Spain.

The currency specialist has attributed this trend to a number of factors, such as the strong euro forcing up the cost of living in these countries.

HiFX added that emerging markets across the world are also becoming more popular with investors, as they widely seen to offer better growth potential.

Mark Bodega, director of the organisation, commented: "Investors are always looking for the 'next big thing' to try and tap into undeveloped markets."

Panama was highlighted as one hotspot of actiivity, as the number of enquiries relating to the country has gone up slightly in recent months.

This comes after analysts at Amberlamb stated that the "world and his wife" have become aware of the investment potential in the Central American country.

 

Panama property investment not for the light-hearted

Fri, 4 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Panama has the fastest growing economy in Central America but new investors are still worried about the political climate, infrastructure and possibly being ripped off, according to a new report...

Buying Property in Panama Safely and Securely

Tue, 1 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ho him, the highly respected Homes Overseas magazine recently published a piece all about Panama and quoted Amberlamb.  Which was nice.  The only trouble is, the world and his wife will now be looking at the investment prospects in this country and presenting themselves as prey to some of the less than scrupulous sales agents that exist in Panama.  Not exclusively you understand, they exist everywhere, but in Panama there are a number of scams and tricks that are fairly unique to the country’s property market.  So we thought we’d better add a bit of a addendum to the ‘Where to Lay Your Hat’ piece in Homes Overseas...namely, buying property in Panama safely and securely.

Where to and Not to Invest in Property in Panama

Tue, 1 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Well, the world and his wife have discovered the property potential in Panama and they are believing the reports that mortgages are easy to come by, they are making the classic mistakes of believing everything that the very first real estate agent they meet says and they are buying condos in high-rises in Panama city because they’ve heard, been told and now believe that they can’t lose. Marvellous.  Meanwhile back on planet reality, if you’re an investor keenly aware that there is potential in Panamanian real estate but you’re just not sure where, here are the Amberlamb ideas about where to and where not to invest in property in Panama – bearing in mind that we may be wrong of course!!

Panama investors to benefit from tax breaks

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Owners of real estate in Panama have been boosted by the news that they will still be able to benefit from a 20-year property tax exemption.

According to the Foreign Property Buyer website, the policy expired last year, prompting fears that some investors would start to shun the country and look elsewhere.

However, the online portal has stated that the government has renewed the tax break in order to keep encouraging growth in its housing market.

Commenting on this development, the website said it means that overseas investors will continue to pursue opportunities in Panama.

Foreign Property Buyer remarked: "The news has been welcomed by investors as it is expected to keep Panama's property market on the up."

This comes after analysts at Amberlamb stated that the "world and his wife" have become aware of the investment potential in the Central American country.
 

Twenty year tax exemption for property investors renewed in Panama

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The 20 year tax exemption for buyers in Panama which expired last year has been restored to keep the country's booming real estate market on the rise...

Panama attracts more foreign property buyers

Fri, 16 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Panama is becoming more and more popular with foreign property buyers, according to industry experts.

Analysts at Amberlamb stated that the "world and his wife" have become aware of the investment potential in the Central American country.

However, the organisation recommended that investors avoid Panama City and consider places such as Penonome instead.

Amberlamb said it is a highly accessible place which offers a number of lifestyle and financial attractions.

The group commented: "It's already emerging as a tourism hotspot for city dwellers seeking the laidback vibe that Penonome really embodies."

Furthermore, the region was said to offer attractive architecture, good scenery and relatively cheap real estate prices.

Amberlamb added that property values are likely to "creep up" in response to growing demand, which means buyers could get a relative bargain if they enter the market early.

This comes after the Foreign Property Buyer website revealed that Panama's government has extended its 20-year property tax exemption for overseas investors.