Getting an Apartment in Panama

Posted By: Panama Expertos on 09.04.2007
Views: 753, Published in sections: Life in Panama ::

With a greater influx of tourists and migrants to Panama, more apartment buildings are being established to accommodate the foreigners. There is a great variety of apartments there and many of them offer very complete facilities that will more than meet your basic needs, not to mention the scenic views they afford.

Looking for apartments in Panama can be fun because there are so many different locations to choose from and even with an average income in US Dollars, you can afford almost all of them. It is better to know the market rate for apartments before you decide to rent anything. The local housing agents have the impression that all foreigners are rich and it is natural that they will rent you an apartment at a higher price. In Panama, the average cost of housing for the locals is $150 per month. If you are willing to pay up to a few hundred dollars, you can even get yourself a rather neat joint in the downtown area.

The range of apartment types in Panama City is quite varied. Depending on the location, you can be paying anything between $200 a month for an efficiency apartment to $1500 for an upper end three bedroom apartment. With a budget of $300 to $700 a month, you are looking at a two-bedroom apartment in a middle class residential area. Many of these apartments come with amenities such as 24-hour security, swimming pools, gyms and recreational areas. And the more expensive apartments usually have better views.

There are many ways you can look for apartments in Panama. If you are migrating, it is better to make a trip there first to do some scouting for yourself. The biggest problem you will probably have is the language, but you can employ an interpreter to help you out and most locals do not mind offering their services for tens of dollars a day. A good place to start is the ads in the newspaper. Try to look out for those ads that are direct postings from owners so that you don’t have to go through agents and pay extra. Besides, owners are usually more honest. Pick a few apartments that interest you and arrange to view them. Never confirm a deal on the spot unless you are absolutely sure that the price is right. After viewing a few apartments, you will have a rough idea about the price patterns there. If you have a favorite, bargain for it. If not, you can take your time looking for more alternatives.

Most foreigners jump into decisions too early because they cannot believe their luck that they found such great housing deals. Well, almost everything is a great deal there. But before long, those who were hasty will come to realize there is a better place with the same price. There is no rush in Panama. Whether you enjoy the hustle and bustle of downtown living or the peace and quiet of tranquil neighborhoods, there is an apartment that will satisfy you.