Moving to Boquete, Panama

"HIRE a local attorney before getting or signing anything. We did so and VERY happy that we did . Do not believe or trust anyone. There are many "reject" Gringos there trying to make a buck and Panamanian law works SLOWLY," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"Most good rentals are found through people you know. Ours was never advertised, only word of mouth. Good rentals are difficult to find," replied a member in Boquete.

"We lived in Panama City for a short time while we were waiting for our goods to arrive. The heat is almost unbearable. We had visited Boquete on previous visits and decided that its mild weather is a good choice. Never too hot or too cold. We purchase a dehumidifier for the rainy season, but you don't need an air conditioner or space heater. A lighted ceiling fan is all you need," commented one expat who made the move to Alto Boquete.

"I lived in Leon, Nicaragua and was tired of heat, The temperatures here suit me well. I found an apartment in Alto Boquete on the Internet, and took a 6 month lease. I will be moving closer to town as I don't own a car," remarked one expat in Boquete, Panama.

"We are renting a home. It is typical housing; concrete outside. This home has a lot of wood including ceilings. We just paid for an exterminator to gas the house. It is large. It has 4 bedrooms, one barely larger than a closet. The kitchens in older homes have no drawers. Think table service settings. Small countertop, limited storage in overhead cabinets. My eating area has steel shelving that I brought from the US. It provides storage for the mixer, baking equipment extra dishes and bowls. It's has a very Restoration Hardware look about it. I think that new construction has limited storage space as well. If you have books or dvds, buy shelving. Linen closets often don't exist. I store my linens and fabric in antique suitcases. Even if you buy kitchenware in Panama, you have to store it somewhere," remarked one expat who made the move to Alto Boquete.

"Homes in Boquete range from quite rustic Panamanian style homes to large luxury homes. It all depends on your desires and budget! Most homes in Panama are concrete block construction. I will disagree with the previous poster, most homes in Boquete do not have either AC or heat, as it is not needed due to the stable and comfortable air temperature. As you drive from Boquete to David it get significantly hotter and AC would be highly desirable in those areas. See homes at https://casasolution.com," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"3 bedroom 2 bath homes. In Boquete it is typical to have a home but there are some apartments available. When you make any change to your house you will be overcharged and you will receive poor quality work. Your electricity will be high, and undependable, and you will never have the bill delivered to your house. It is your responsible to know when the bill is due and your responsibility to go to them and pay it. (the Post Office does not deliver mail. you may not even have a street name and house number.)," said one expat in Boquete.

"Monthly rental is $905.00 per month cheaper. Housing here is between $600 $700 for two bedrooms. There are real estate people here who will find a house or apartment for you. Be prepared, every local has his hand out. Everyone from the cab drivers to our exterminator will offer to find a house for you. They have contacts and get commissions. But make no mistake, the Panamanians are all good-hearted and mean well. Sometimes strike gold," remarked one expat who made the move to Alto Boquete.

"The cost of housing in Boquete varies depending on the size and location of the property. Generally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Boquete is around $500 per month, while a three-bedroom house can cost up to $1,500 per month. Prices can also vary depending on the amenities offered, such as a pool or a view," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"We are certain it is less to live there than in the US although....prices are creeping up at least in the grocery stores," said one expat in Boquete.

"Our rent (including electric, gas and high-speed internet) is less than half of just our mortgage in S. Florida. Tip: if internet is important to you, don't ask, "do you have internet" since everyone can get it. Ask, "what speed internet can I get and how much does it cost?" We pay about $50 for 5G megs mo. Five minutes away it is $150 for 1meg," said one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"Buying a home in Boquete can be a great investment, as the area is known for its beautiful scenery and pleasant climate. Renting a home in Boquete can also be a great option, as it allows you to experience the area without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Boquete should be based on your individual needs and preferences," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"Rent. Not difficult, but a bit seasonal. Purchasing is easy, but selling a home takes a very, very long time, so it's advisable to rent first, always," said one expat in Boquete.

"Things I wished or do not regret bringing: Towels in colors I like, Bed linens and Shoes. Things I wish I left at home: nothing," said one expat in Boquete.

"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Boquete. It is considered rude to point with your finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to dress modestly, as shorts and tank tops are generally not considered appropriate attire. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly or using offensive language. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local environment and to avoid littering or damaging the natural environment," commented one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"Boquete is a popular destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, temperate climate, and low cost of living. The area is known for its lush green mountains, stunning waterfalls, and picturesque coffee plantations. Boquete also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and bird watching. Additionally, the town is home to a vibrant expat community, with many expats choosing to retire in Boquete due to its low cost of living and relaxed lifestyle. With its stunning scenery, temperate climate, and low cost of living, Boquete is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home," commented one expat who moved to Boquete.

"Boquete offers a variety of healthcare services to its residents and visitors. The town has a modern hospital, Hospital Chiriquí, which provides a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and internal medicine. Additionally, there are several private clinics in Boquete that offer specialized medical services, such as cardiology, orthopedics, and dermatology. Boquete also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. For those seeking alternative treatments, there are several spas and wellness centers in the area that offer massage, acupuncture, and other holistic therapies," stated one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"Many doctors live in our town and the facilities are quite adequate for expat healthcare," replied one expat when asked about moving to Boquete.

"Boquete offers a wide range of medical services. The town has several private clinics and hospitals that provide quality medical care. Many of these facilities are staffed by experienced and qualified doctors and nurses. Additionally, Boquete has a number of pharmacies that offer a variety of medications and medical supplies. The town also has a number of medical specialists, such as dentists, optometrists, and physical therapists, who are available to provide specialized care. Boquete also has a number of medical laboratories that offer diagnostic testing and other services. In addition, the town has a number of medical centers that provide emergency care and other medical services," stated one expat who made the move to Boquete.