Monday, March 23, 2009

NY Times Profiles Affordable Properties For Sale in Panama

The New York Times recently reported about the advantageous pricing in Panama…

A One-bedroom, deluxe apartment in Casco Viejo – the Old Town section that is also a UNESCO World Heritage site – offers fully renovated condos with historic features as low as $450,000. Beachfront houses can go for less than $1 million, and “comfortable” apartments range from $175,000 to $400,000.

Panamanian prices have softened somewhat, but have not crumbled like in other international cities. Panamanian banks will typically lend to foreign buyers putting at least 30% down. The area has become popular with retirees and foreign buyers from Europe, Canada, Colombia, Venezuela and Latin America.

Buying real estate is easy in Panama, as costs are only legal fees from $1,500 to $2,000, a transfer tax of 2% of the purchase price and real estate commissions of about 5%. Sellers pay capital gains taxes of 10% of profits on the property.
Many set up corporations to buy property, as it only costs about $1,000 and corporations have better tax advantages for the selling of property. There are generally about $115 a month in fees for condo fees, and no property taxes until 2035 because of government encouragement for growth and development.

Interested in property in Panama? Visit Panama-Land-for-Sale.com to see properties and businesses for sale in Panama City and outlying areas. Click here for more information about moving or retiring to Panama….

No comments: