How to Find A Home in Panama
Finding the right home in Panama is one of the most exciting and sometimes overwhelming parts of relocating. With so many neighborhoods, price points, and lifestyle options, it’s easy to fall in love with a place that looks great online but doesn’t quite fit your real-life needs.
Whether you’re planning to rent first or buy long-term, this guide will walk you through how to find your perfect home in Panama, step by step, so you can make a confident and informed decision.
1. Start With Your Lifestyle (Not the Listing)
Before browsing listings or joining Facebook groups, get clear on how you actually want to live in Panama.
Ask yourself:
- Do you want city life, beach living, or the mountains?
- Are you looking for walkability or are you comfortable driving?
- Do you need fast, reliable internet for remote work?
- Will you rely on public transport or have a car?
Your lifestyle will determine whether Panama City, the beaches, or interior towns make the most sense for you.
2. Choose the Right Area in Panama
Location is everything and Panama offers very different experiences depending on where you settle.
Popular Areas to Consider
- Panama City – Modern condos, healthcare access, shopping, nightlife, and business hubs
- Panama Oeste – Suburb outside of Panama City with lower cost of living
- Boquete – Cooler climate, mountain views, popular with retirees
- Coronado & Beach Communities – Relaxed coastal living with city access
- El Valle de Antón – Small-town mountain lifestyle inside a volcanic crater
Tip: Visit multiple areas before committing. What works for one person may not work for you. This is one of the things I do in my Relocation Tours.
3. Decide: Rent First or Buy?
For most newcomers, renting first is strongly recommended.
Why Renting First Makes Sense
- Learn the neighborhoods
- Understand true living costs
- Avoid costly buying mistakes
- Flexibility if plans change
Buying property in Panama can be a great long-term move but it’s best done after you understand the market and your lifestyle preferences.
4. Set a Realistic Housing Budget
Panama offers housing at many price points, but your budget should include more than just rent or mortgage.
Factor in:
- Rent or purchase price
- HOA or building maintenance fees
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas)
- Internet and cable
- Furnished vs unfurnished costs
Pro tip: Electricity can be a surprise expense, especially with heavy A/C use.
5. Work With the Right Professionals
Not all real estate agents in Panama work the same way and not all listings are reliable.
Look for:
- Agents familiar with expats and relocations
- Clear communication in English
- Transparent pricing
- Knowledge of contracts and local norms
Avoid sending deposits or signing contracts without proper guidance.
6. Don’t Rely on Photos Alone
Online listings can be misleading. Photos often:
- Make spaces look larger
- Hide noise issues
- Skip surrounding areas
If possible:
- Visit the property in person
- Check internet speed
- Visit at different times of day
- Ask about water pressure and power outages
7. Understand Lease Terms & Contracts
Panama rental contracts are usually 6–12 months, and terms can vary widely.
Always confirm:
- Length of lease
- Deposit amount
- Early termination clauses
- Maintenance responsibilities
- Utilities included (or not)
If Spanish isn’t your first language, have contracts reviewed before signing.
8. Avoid These Common Mistakes
Renting long-term before visiting
Choosing location based on price alone
Ignoring noise, traffic, or construction
Underestimating commute times
Not budgeting for utilities
A little patience upfront can save you money, stress, and frustration later.
9. Get Local, On-the-Ground Help
Every relocation is different. Some people want city convenience, others want peace and nature. That’s why personalized guidance matters.
If you want help:
- Exploring neighborhoods
- Viewing properties
- Understanding rental prices
- Avoiding costly mistakes
Having someone on the ground in Panama makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Your perfect home in Panama isn’t just about square footage or views, it’s about how you want to live day to day. Take your time, explore your options, and don’t rush the process.
Panama has something for everyone, you just need the right approach to find it.