Housing
Renting and buying a home in Panama
Rent for six to twelve months before you buy. When you do buy, foreigners can generally own property in Panama with the same rights as Panamanians, with some restrictions near borders and on certain coastal and island land. Always use your own independent lawyer to check the title, and know whether a property is titled land or rights-of-possession land.
Finding a long-term rental
Many of the best long-term rentals are never advertised online. Expat community groups, local property managers and word of mouth find more than websites do, especially outside Panama City. When you rent:
- Expect a security deposit, often one or two months' rent.
- Get a written lease that states who pays for electricity, water, internet and maintenance.
- Visit in the rainy season to check for leaks, mould and road access.
- Check mobile signal and internet options at the actual address.
Buying property as a foreigner
The basics every buyer should know:
- Titled vs rights-of-possession. Titled property is registered in Panama's Public Registry. Rights-of-possession (ROP) land isn't, which carries more risk and limits financing and resale. Know which one you're buying.
- Your own lawyer. Hire an independent lawyer who works only for you to search the title, check for liens and debts, and review the contract.
- Closing costs. Buyers typically pay their lawyer plus notary and Public Registry fees. In Panama the seller normally pays any real estate commission.
- Restricted areas. Foreign ownership is limited within a set distance of the borders and on some islands and beachfront land. Your lawyer will check.
- Residency link. Some residency routes count property towards the requirement, so plan your purchase and your visa together.
Want help buying?
If you're ready to look at property in Pedasí and the Azuero coast, Boquete, Panama City and Casco Viejo, Coronado or Bocas del Toro, our affiliated brokerage Panama Properties represents buyers. As is usual in Panama, buyers pay no agent fee; the seller pays the commission. Start the buying process with Panama Properties.
Panama Properties is affiliated with Panama Expat Life. See our disclosure.
Common questions
Can foreigners buy property in Panama?
Yes. Foreigners generally have the same property rights as Panamanians, with restrictions close to the borders and on some islands and coastal land.
What is rights-of-possession land in Panama?
Land that isn't registered in Panama's Public Registry. It can be bought and sold, but it carries more risk than titled property and is harder to finance and resell.
Who pays the real estate commission in Panama?
The seller normally pays the agent's commission. Buyers typically pay their own lawyer plus notary and Public Registry fees.
Should I rent before buying in Panama?
Yes. Renting for six to twelve months lets you experience both seasons, the roads, the neighbours and the services before you commit.
Planning a move? Start with the checklist.
A free, month-by-month timeline from twelve months out to your first week in Panama.