Matt, your panama real estate report was very useful. We bought because we're going to look at panama real estate it and read it on the plane, very much perparing ourselves for what we were about to encounter You do a better job that the other reports I have purchased and read. Congrats.
David

No nonsense style in your panama real estate report is great. You cut straight to the chase which is hard with panama real estate today. One comment: maybe make the chapter on 'where the next best panama real estate investment spot is' a bit longer. We would love to hear more predictions!

is is true that fat people use more soap? i k,now some large people that do not use more soap.

As an Expat once living in Panama City for 2 years, I feel I can offer a somewhat accurate critique of the people, real estate market, etc.

In 2005 my husband and I purchased a condo in Punta Pacifica. Since then, the prices have practically doubled but the infrastructure has not. More and more buildings appear on every corner with no regard to the amount of traffic.

Then there is getting things done. Like painting the interior of your new residence, or purchasing air conditioners, or remodeling a kitchen. All I can say is do your homework. And even then there is no guarantee of satisfaction. Long waits, no-shows, poor workmanship, etc., etc.

The people in general are very nice, very warm. But remember, it is a very different culture than what many Expat's are use to. Manana is very real. "Don't worry" is their national slogan, and behind the wheel they become crazed and impatient, using their horns as if it where part of the everyday driving experience.

And if you are looking for good customer service, forget it! It doesn't exist in most of their businesses.

But I think the most valuable piece of information I can provide is beware of the legal system, or should I say the lack of. Talk about dishonest attorney's. Panama has no shortage of them. They will smile in your face and stab you in the back.

For married couples moving to Panama and starting a Foundation....BE CAREFUL!

If your Spanish is weak, make sure all documents are in English, or get yourself a trustworthy translator.

This Foundation-thing can definitely protect your assets...BUT! if it isn't done jointly, like most North Americans are use to, it will not protect YOUR ASS in the event of a divorce.

This is a macho country, ladies...Make sure you understand that before entering into anything legal with your husband, or significant other.

So if you are looking for Nirvana....forget it. Though the cost of living is much less than what the typical Expat is use to, there is a higher price you must pay.

Matt is a true authority on all things Panamanian and has done potential expats a HUGE favor by putting together this report. I've lived here for 2 years and am heavily involved online in many aspects of the things mentioned in this report. Firsthand, I'll tell you that you DO NOT want to consider buying before buying and reading this report!

If you're moving down, do yourself and enormous favor and get Matt as a consultant for your move. Panama is 110% about WHO you know and Matt is one of the people to know.

Salve a tutti Voi, con la presente sono a richiederVi, gentili e cortesi informazioni per poter acquistare due casette fronte mare, sulla spiaggia. Io e la mia famiglia formata da tre persone ed un'altra famiglia di amici sempre formata da tre persone, siamo interessati a trasferirci dall'Italia nel Vostro splendido Paese.Siamo intenzionati a venire da Voi nei primi giorni di luglio.Saremmo lieti , se ci aiutaste a trovare un volo aereo conveniente che parti da Napoli o Roma...Se ci aiutaste a trovare una sistemazione provvisoria, per i primi giorni, in attesa della nostra casa futura...Se ci aiutaste anche a trovare una scuola idonea per i nostri figli. Io,Anna, con mio marito Massimiliano, abbiamo un figlio di 13 anni che dovrà frequentare, l'anno prossimo scolastico, il liceo (in Italia sta frequentando l'ultimo anno delle medie, ottavo anno scolastico).L'altra famiglia formata da Gilda e Peppe, hanno un figlio di 6 anni che frequenta in Italia la prima elementare, dovrà frequentare il secondo anno scolastico. Saremmo lieti se ci aiutaste in tutto, consigliandoci, cosa e come fare per poterci muovere agevolmente, in tutto e per tutto ,nel Vostro meraviglioso Paese.Permessi di soggiorno,scuole, eventuali lavori da poter svolgere, eventuali piccoli investimenti, se è possibile aprire una pizzeria e friggitoria all'Italiana(siamo del settore), scuole, cultura, regole da rispettare, obblighi o quant'altro anche per impararare la lingua... Resto in attesa di Vostre graditissime notizie. Grazie mille ed a presto di rileggerVi. Ciao a tutti.
Anna