Real Estate & Investment News in Panama from Propertyshowrooms.com

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".

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.

'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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.