John
@Sitka
American looking for information about Puerto Rico
Forum posts
953
Contacts
25
About me
American
Registration: 07 October 2015
Replacing cement roof by Traveler607080
Has anyone replaced a cement roof?Roofs with a long period of neglect will have rusting of the rebar, so repair not possible.Has anyone undertaken the removal and replacing of a roof? Cost? How long to do it? Thanks.
Been there, done that. After multiple repairs/ attempts we finally got it repaired inside and out. Took lots ok removal of bad concrete and rebar replacement. The cost was steep!In retrospect, a whole new roof may have been a better choice, but ... Read More
should I sell by laalinda
My husband and I bought a nice lot in Isabela above Jobos beach about 3 yrs ago. We hired and architect, engineer and construction crew and then COVID hit and all came to a stop. We are living in Aguadilla and are considering selling the lot. Does ...
Hi laalinda, I live in the area, and have looked at property in your location and it is a nice area. please PM me for further discussion. tks Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2022 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Puerto Rico forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...
@deniseparkson hi Denise, I see you are in Arecibo, we are close to you in Hatillo. Contact me if you wish to meet some gringos in the area. sitka. Read More
Curfew / lockdown by Sitka
Well, it’s been only a day since the Governor announcement of an island wide curfew and lockdown. The impact has been dramatic, most businesses are closed, no public gatherings, only gas stations, banks, grocery stores, medical facilities ...
Currently 2589 cases, 122 deaths. Getting anecdotal reports of many people not observing social distancing & wearing masks. Read More
Curfew in Puerto Rico by Chris1304
Now that we have a Curfew and general shutdown, can someone explain the details? What stores remain open? When is it o.k. to leave the house? Do they really hand out %5000 fines? Are banks open? What if your car breaks down? Is there a website ...
I drove past pep boys & advanced auto parts today on the way to the grocery store, both were closed. While on lockdown, with time on my hands, started a project to clean and repaint the patio area, but need some painting supplies. Guess ... Read More
Curfew in Puerto Rico by Chris1304
Now that we have a Curfew and general shutdown, can someone explain the details? What stores remain open? When is it o.k. to leave the house? Do they really hand out %5000 fines? Are banks open? What if your car breaks down? Is there a website ...
I am (generally) in agreement with the lockdown approach. Only essential services are open. But I have a concern, if your car breaks down and needs a part or repair, what do you do? Without transportation, you can’t go the grocery store, ... Read More
Curfew in Puerto Rico by Chris1304
Now that we have a Curfew and general shutdown, can someone explain the details? What stores remain open? When is it o.k. to leave the house? Do they really hand out %5000 fines? Are banks open? What if your car breaks down? Is there a website ...
I understand that the governor may extend the curfew for two additional weeks. ( I’m in favor). And was proposing to test everyone on the island. Life under lockdown is kinda boring, gonna read my copy of Don Quixote to pass the time. ... Read More
Curfew in Puerto Rico by Chris1304
Now that we have a Curfew and general shutdown, can someone explain the details? What stores remain open? When is it o.k. to leave the house? Do they really hand out %5000 fines? Are banks open? What if your car breaks down? Is there a website ...
Guess I better put some caned goods in my car as insurance. 😁. Seriously, everyone we know is practicing social distancing - parties, dinner groups, gathering of any type is canceled. Our beach is deserted, no surfers in spite of ... Read More
Curfew in Puerto Rico by Chris1304
Now that we have a Curfew and general shutdown, can someone explain the details? What stores remain open? When is it o.k. to leave the house? Do they really hand out %5000 fines? Are banks open? What if your car breaks down? Is there a website ...
We have a guest from the states, scheduled to fly back this weekend at 2AM. I have been told to have a copy of the ticket in the car. If stoped by police, (during curfew hours) show the copy of the ticket to the police, they should accept it and ... Read More
Auto salvage yards? by Hayseed
Anyone know where an old fashioned auto junkyard is on the island?
I think they do exist here. My friend got a transmission from one In Arecibo. Read More
Auto salvage yards? by Hayseed
Anyone know where an old fashioned auto junkyard is on the island?
I think they do exist here. My friend got a transmission from one In Arecibo. Read More
Worth Moving to PR now? by Jannyboy63
After the recent hurricanes PR has had to endure and the recent mass amounts of earthquakes, most people would think I was crazy to consider moving there. I only have my father living there alone. I will be retiring in 4 years and therefore was ...
Well, what you say is partly correct. My wife told me not to wear the Rolex. But we have seen relatively little crime in our area (knock on wood) as we live away from SJ. My opinion is be aware of your surroundings, don’t flash a lot of ... Read More
Curfew in Puerto Rico by Chris1304
Now that we have a Curfew and general shutdown, can someone explain the details? What stores remain open? When is it o.k. to leave the house? Do they really hand out %5000 fines? Are banks open? What if your car breaks down? Is there a website ...
See my post from today. The police are enforcing the curfew, writing tickets $5000 fine & possible 6 months in jail. Banks, grocery stores, gas stations, medical services open, most every thing else closed. This will have a very negative ... Read More
Curfew / lockdown
Well, it’s been only a day since the Governor announcement of an island wide curfew and lockdown. The impact has been dramatic, most businesses are closed, no public gatherings, only gas stations, banks, grocery stores, medical facilities ... Read More
Looking for feedback on the Aguada area by kaford
Greetings! Hope you are all safe and sound after the recent "shake up" ;) I am a professional woman in my forties looking to relocate to PR very soon. I am interested in purchasing a property in Barrio-Guaniquilla, Aguada. I am ...
Aguada is nice area. Aguadilla is larger and has more stores and restaurants. The main drawback to these town (IMO) is transportation. Highway 2 is the main route, slow and heavy traffic. So any trip to major shopping or trip to SJ is more ... Read More
Questions about home construction in PR by Dylanriverdale
My wife and I are headed to PR at the end of Jan to purchase a vacation home. We have scheduled a few appointments to view properties already but I am having a little difficulty finding information on common types of home construction in PR. Being ...
Hi Dylan, My house is cement. Some components are poured, like support beams, floors, roof, some parts are block, like walls. The conduit is layed out with the rebar and tied prior to pouring cement. Sometimes a chipper is used to run a line ... Read More
Earthquake in PR this AM by Sitka
Just getting reports of damage from a 5.8 earthquake on the south side of the island. Saw photos of some cement houses that were heavily damaged. We felt the shake early AM.
Another earthquake today before dawn. It felt fairly strong. Electric power is down due to damage at power plant on the south coast. Reports of damage and fatalities on the news. No tsunami warning at this time. Read More
Earthquake in PR this AM
Just getting reports of damage from a 5.8 earthquake on the south side of the island. Saw photos of some cement houses that were heavily damaged. We felt the shake early AM. Read More
Gardening in Hatillo by aca358
I am very interested in growing a lemon tree. We currently have a sour orange tree and avocado trees. I am here for 3-5 months from November to April. I have someone to care for the plants while I am gone. I am not a gardener at all, but love ...
My lemon tree died. But my potted orange tree has a baseball size orange on it! 😁 My growing patio on the south side used to get so hot, most plants got cooked. Since putting up shade cloth, most plants grow very well. Read More
Home decoration ideas for expats in Puerto Rico by Bhavna
Hello, After moving to Puerto Rico, setting up home and turning your accommodation into your personal abode can be a great way to start off your new life and feel at home. We would like to know whether expats are keen on decorating and furnishing ...
We made some tropical theme light shades from the large gourds from a calabash tree. The gourds are cut and cleaned out & dried. I used a drill to creat marine images like fish, lobsters & shells etc. The gourds are about 18”x ... Read More
Solar Hot Water Heater by spot0023
Anyone had a good experience with a solar hot water installation? I'm on the East side of the island in Luquillo. Feel free to drop me a message. Thanks!
Well, I should explain...before we installed the cistern tank, the water from the street was warm enough to shower without any heater, it was just heated by the warm ground. But after installing the storage tank and pressure tank, the water temp ... Read More
Electricity/Internet in Rincon by Austin-Rincon
Hi expat community. My husband, kids and I are planning a move to Rincón in Jan/early February. My husband and I can work remotely from anywhere, but I just want to check on the electrical/internet reliability in Rincon. I’ve read ...
Don't over stress about the issue. We settled in Hatillo on the NW coast. We soon made new friends with neighbors and locals. - the Puerto Rican people are very friendly and love to have a good time. We also met many retired gringos like ... Read More
Solar Hot Water Heater by spot0023
Anyone had a good experience with a solar hot water installation? I'm on the East side of the island in Luquillo. Feel free to drop me a message. Thanks!
We bought the solar hot water system from Home Depot (Universal), the heating unit is part of a 600 gallon tank pressure system. The hot water is very hot - 145 degrees. You have to be careful to mix at the faucet to avoid scalding! :cool: Read More
Payment methods in Puerto Rico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Once youre settled in Puerto Rico, you will need to make some basic purchases, like groceries or pay bills. Hence, it is essential to know the payment methods available in your host country. Which are the most common payment ...
My CC seems to work fine. Cash can sometimes get a little better deal. Read More
window and door contractor by laalinda
we are finally getting quotes for our new house to be built in Isabela, our first quote has come in priced without door and windows- is this common? they state "..because it is taking more time than normal because of the demand with the industy ...
Hi, yes. That is correct. We are remodeling and installing new doors and windows. About a year ago I got quotes from four different vendors. They all had the same story. Due to the hurricane, demand was very high and materials in short supply. ... Read More
About rincon schools and living. by Prettyana928
I'm relocating in a year to Puerto Rico with my family and need to know about the private English schools in rincon or mayaguez, not to far from one another. If anyone can tell me the best ones and the cost monthly per child. I have a child in ...
What part of Alaska are you from? We lived in Sitka for may years ( hence my handle here). We now have to place in Hatillo and love it. 😎 Read More
Electricity/Internet in Rincon by Austin-Rincon
Hi expat community. My husband, kids and I are planning a move to Rincón in Jan/early February. My husband and I can work remotely from anywhere, but I just want to check on the electrical/internet reliability in Rincon. I’ve read ...
AT&T internet and Directv works very well for us. Better than Liberty that we had prior to Maria The suggestion about battery and car charger is good. 😎 Read More
Bugs? by Sundaiirose
Hello I tried goggling with no avail. Please anyone in PR what are the tiny little brown flying bugs almost like a Nat but it flys like a lady bug, and what are the tan brownish gray bugs I find them on the walls and they seem to just be dead. How ...
Yes, that's what we did. Turned off the outside lights, sprayed insecticide outside around the doors and vacuumed up the ones that got inside with the shop vac. It worked pretty well. They shed millions of wings, nasty! I had never been ... Read More
Bugs? by Sundaiirose
Hello I tried goggling with no avail. Please anyone in PR what are the tiny little brown flying bugs almost like a Nat but it flys like a lady bug, and what are the tan brownish gray bugs I find them on the walls and they seem to just be dead. How ...
I put yellow LED bulbs in my outdoor deck lights, and they still attract insects 😤 Not sure what the solution to that problem could be. We had a swarm of termites last winter - it was the swarm from hell. Some got in the house and I used ... Read More
Possibly moving to Aguadilla, what’s it like there? by CloudyMentos
Greetings! Way new to Expat.com and this forum, but have a number of questions about life in Aguadilla. I might move there for work, won’t know if I can for a few weeks, and we were hoping for San Juan because they have a major airport, ...
I have been to Aguadilla many time, it has several nice restaurants, and the only ice skating rink in the Caribbean. 😎 Read More
Recommendations for West Coast Exterminators by CDuke
Hello there!! I’ve recently moved to the Mayaguez/Anasco area and appear to have a Polilla issue. I got one quote for fumigation, but it was pretty high, I think, and I’d love to have other options. Any recommendations for West ...
PR has a lot of termites - they will destroy/ eat wood. If your house is cement, no worries, but anything wood is at risk. Sometimes they swarm and it is a swarm from hell. The swarm is looking for a place to start a new nest. 😡 Read More
Recommendations for West Coast Exterminators by CDuke
Hello there!! I’ve recently moved to the Mayaguez/Anasco area and appear to have a Polilla issue. I got one quote for fumigation, but it was pretty high, I think, and I’d love to have other options. Any recommendations for West ...
Polilla issue.? Is that some type of moth? Read More
Building Homes in PR by Live2sparkle
I have seen a few posts from people who have built a house or will build a house on the island. Rey, I know you have a beautiful lot that you posted a photo of. And a few others, whose names escape me at the moment, have mentioned building. I am ...
I considered buying a container for transporting house hold stuff, then using the container for storage and a work shop. Gunner at the smoke house in Isabela put one on the restaurant , you can talk to him about getting a container. I think ... Read More
Possibly moving to Aguadilla, what’s it like there? by CloudyMentos
Greetings! Way new to Expat.com and this forum, but have a number of questions about life in Aguadilla. I might move there for work, won’t know if I can for a few weeks, and we were hoping for San Juan because they have a major airport, ...
Oh yea, Amazon delivers, post Maria is improving a lot. Beach front is high, if you can find any. Travel to SJ is about 85 miles?? Traffic varies from moderate to bad travel time depends I try to avoid rush hour. 😎 Read More
Possibly moving to Aguadilla, what’s it like there? by CloudyMentos
Greetings! Way new to Expat.com and this forum, but have a number of questions about life in Aguadilla. I might move there for work, won’t know if I can for a few weeks, and we were hoping for San Juan because they have a major airport, ...
Hi & welcome I live in the NW part of the island. Hatillo. Aguadilla is a nice area, several nice restaurants, crash boat beach, it has an airport too with connection to the us ( lots of flights from there are late night connections). We ... Read More
Banking by NotSoObscure
Hola! Is it possible to open Banco popular here in Georgia or do i have to wait to come to PR to open it there? I dont have an address there yet and wont have a permanent one when i get there right away?
Hmmm, I don’t know. We opened our Banko Popular account in PR I like their app, makes bill paying ez. Read More
Sense of humour in Puerto Rico by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Should we set out to explore Puerto Ricans culture through its sense of humour? Indeed, if one is planning to settle in the country, it is best to understand the cultural codes governing humour in order to avoid any ...
All of my PR friends have a great sense of humor. 🤣 I’d like to post a few jokes, but doubt they would pass the purity test here. 😎 Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2019 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Puerto Rico forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...
Welcome. Check out the north west section. Many nice rural homes in the inland areas of Hatillo, Isabella & Quebradillas. Some with ocean views and fenced acreage. 😎 Read More
Building a home by bmccarney72
WE have bought a plot in Sandy Beach and are in process of gathering info. I have been told to install a solar system (which I agree with!) Anyone have any info, experiences, recommendations, warnings, etc?? Thanks!
I know on PR cement company in Hatillo that may be able to make them on the island. Tropical cement - give them a call Read More
Advice on finding rental in San Juan by duckfan
Hello all, my name is Kim and I am planning to move to Puerto Rico in August or September. I currently live in Portland, Oregon, and work in hospitality. I have planned a trip mid-August to look for a place to live and apply for any open jobs on the ...
Hi Kim, Welcome to our group. If you are looking for a job in PR you must be fluent in Spanish as spoken on the island. Good luck 😎 Read More
Expat blog gatherings in Puerto Rico by Julien
Hi all! What about meeting the other Puerto Rico Expat.com members in real life? Organizing an Expat.com meet up would be an excellent way to know them! :) An Expat.com meet up can be a diner gathering, having coffee, a bring and share in a ...
In our circle of friends, a mixture of retirees from the states and local Puerto Rican’s, we are called Gringo Rican’s. It is not considered a derogatory term. 😎 Read More
Antenna
Well we have directv w internet, but they sell tv antennas at many road side vendors. Typically made with pvc pipe and co ax cable for local channels. I’m sure they are cheap. You also can get HD tv antennas at Home Depot Read More
Opportunity Zone / Construction Tax / Etc by nikandjen
Hi I purchased a house in PR last year and planning on major renovations to start end of the summer. I've been reading on the Opportunity Zone Laws recently implemented and the additional local laws PR has been trying to pass or already passed ...
I don’t have information on this, but it is a good question. I’ll be following this thread. Read More
Apostille Service
No experience with this - I would start with asking your lawyer about it. Read More
Having a baby in Puerto Rico by ashbates1
HELLO! My husband was offered a finance job with Honeywell in Aguadilla, PR. We are both fluent in Spanish, and have visited Puerto Rico and are excited about the opportunity. However. I would be just shy of 8 months pregnant when we arrive, and our ...
All the medical professions in PR are paid much lower salaries than in the states. This includes physicians, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, and related technicians. Before retirement, I was the HR director at several different health care systems. ... Read More
Real estate agents in Rincon by idgykapow
My wife and myself (along with a couple of dogs) are in the process of moving to Puerto Rico and have been trying to decide between the nice gated communities of Dorado and the beach community of Rincon. The problem is that we are struggling to find ...
We recently drove around Dorado. Seems like a nice area. Some very upscale property located there. The big fancy hotel/gated compounds won’t let you in to look around, the guard told me you must have an appointment with a agent to get in. ... Read More
Our experience in purchasing a home in beautiful Puerto Rico. by BrianTX
Here's the story: My wife and I put our home in Texas on the market in February of 2016. After lots of discussion, we (which means my beautiful wife) decided that it was just too far from everything. We live out in the country and even to go ...
Yes, that is why the payment transaction should occur at the DMV after the seller proves a title clear of violations. Used cars have no sales tax. 😎 Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2019 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Puerto Rico forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...
We had Liberty before Maria. It was frequently down in my area (NW part) We are now using Directv with internet, works well for us. 😎 Read More
Cost of living 2019 in Puerto Rico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As we usually do each year, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
My water bill was very high, as the water company had the account listed as commercial. Once we got it reclassified as residential the rate went down significantly. I have no idea what rate the dairy farmers pay, or even if they get public water ... Read More
Cost of living 2019 in Puerto Rico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As we usually do each year, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
Yup, my two pet peeves about PR. It’s almost impossible to buy a good tomato here (once in a blue moon I get a good one at Kash & Karry) and the cost of milk $4.50 gal. Which is particularly galling since we are in the heart of the ... Read More
Africans in Puerto Rico by Saneliswam
Are there any Africans living in Puerto Rico? I’m in San Juan and would love to get acquainted. Also if anybody knows a hair salon where I can get braids or cornrows done please share.
My friends here who are native PR, say that Puerto Rican’s are “mixo” which I take to mean a blending of Spanish, native Tanio Indians (the ones that escaped slaughter by the Spanish) and black runaway slaves. A town in north ... Read More
Rain water collection systems by Sitka
I am interested in learning about rain water collection systems in PR. Our house has a flat roof with drain down spouts, that would be easy to plumb into a tank. A tank of large size could provide free water for gray water use , garden, car wash, ...
Yes, some parts of the US west may have restrictions on rain collection. But not in PR. They have an expression in Montana where water rights are frequently litigated ( lived there for many years). “In the west, whiskey’s for ... Read More
Rain water collection systems by Sitka
I am interested in learning about rain water collection systems in PR. Our house has a flat roof with drain down spouts, that would be easy to plumb into a tank. A tank of large size could provide free water for gray water use , garden, car wash, ...
Let’s not get too carried away by labeling everything a political topic here. Rain water collection is legal in PR. They sell the rain harvesting system ( tank, pump, connections etc) at the local Home Depot. Having a large storage tank ... Read More
Fajardo by Ash408
Anyone has suggestions about living in Fajardo? Thanks!
We spent two weeks driving all around the island shopping for a place. Frankly, we got lucky finding our house as quickly as we did. The best strategy is to rent for several months and take your time exploring the island. Don’t be in a ... Read More
Rain water collection systems
I am interested in learning about rain water collection systems in PR. Our house has a flat roof with drain down spouts, that would be easy to plumb into a tank. A tank of large size could provide free water for gray water use , garden, car wash, ... Read More
the % tax imposed on Hybrid by sesily
Hi everyone, I have one question: Specific model-Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid - it is a “Plug-in Hybrid” (different from typical hybrid). What would be the % tax imposed on it? Whom should I contact for more details? Thank you ! Sesily
I know that I have seen a charging station at the Dennys restaurant on #2. Just east of Hatillo. How long will the waiver on taxes last? Hopefully, an autonomous electric self driving car will be available soon. I believe that when they hit the ... Read More
Building Homes in PR by Live2sparkle
I have seen a few posts from people who have built a house or will build a house on the island. Rey, I know you have a beautiful lot that you posted a photo of. And a few others, whose names escape me at the moment, have mentioned building. I am ...
Yes, Maria has left a wake of destruction after her that has inflated costs and demand for construction materials. For example, we are replacing a glass wall on one side of the house. Several doors and windows, when getting quotes from several ... Read More
Green Energy by Michaelz1952
The last reply on the solar panel thread was way back in 2015. If "side241" is still on this forum, I'd like to know if there has been any further development of affordable solar panel installation in Puerto Rico. With the high cost of ...
PR could do much more to encourage solar energy for household use. As far as I know, we have no financial or tax incentives from the government here. Considering the recent experience with Maria, I don’t understand why we don’t have ... Read More
Green Energy by Michaelz1952
The last reply on the solar panel thread was way back in 2015. If "side241" is still on this forum, I'd like to know if there has been any further development of affordable solar panel installation in Puerto Rico. With the high cost of ...
I am interested in the latest update on lithium battery costs as they are a big part of the cost. Alternative battery systems are possible, a friend of mine built his solar system using lead/acid batteries and claims it works fine. They do take a ... Read More
Green Energy by Michaelz1952
The last reply on the solar panel thread was way back in 2015. If "side241" is still on this forum, I'd like to know if there has been any further development of affordable solar panel installation in Puerto Rico. With the high cost of ...
I don’t know about the latest developments in battery technology/costs. However, we have a solar engineer in the family and he designed a solar system for us in PR last year. He estimated my cost for an off grid system using the best ... Read More
The pet culture in Puerto Rico by Priscilla
Hey everyone, Pets are an integral part of a lot of families. So much so that they would never consider moving abroad without them. Before doing so, it would be important to know the pet culture in Puerto Rico just to make sure that their little ...
PR has a huge problem with feral dogs and cats. Many roam the streets and beaches unattended, looking for food. It’s really a shame to see so many animals with out homes. Read More
Our experience in purchasing a home in beautiful Puerto Rico. by BrianTX
Here's the story: My wife and I put our home in Texas on the market in February of 2016. After lots of discussion, we (which means my beautiful wife) decided that it was just too far from everything. We live out in the country and even to go ...
Real estate agents have a tough job at times. My agent, who specializes in beach property, told me about a couple that he showed property to for several days all around the island . Only to have the buyer go with a different agent in the end. He ... Read More
Having a baby in Puerto Rico by ashbates1
HELLO! My husband was offered a finance job with Honeywell in Aguadilla, PR. We are both fluent in Spanish, and have visited Puerto Rico and are excited about the opportunity. However. I would be just shy of 8 months pregnant when we arrive, and our ...
Err on the side of caution. Stick with your doctor and home hospital. After you and the baby are recovered and well, then travel to PR. Best wishes 😎 Read More
AirBnb in Ricon/Aguada by Michaelz1952
My wife and I are thinking about a larger home and offering rooms on AirBnb. We could pay cash for a smaller home, but it seems we could purchase a 5 bedroom and let rental income pay the mortgage. Additional benefit would be room for our friends ...
We are remodeling our house into two separate units. Upper and lower units. If we decide to rent, the guests will have a private unit and we will have our privacy on the lower level. I have rented a room in B&B a few times. (Not in PR) ... Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2019 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Puerto Rico forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...
Dannyboy, IMO A good electrical contractor should not have too much difficulty getting work. However, the wage scales here will be much lower that NYC. Why don't you check with some of the electrical contractors here about work. Also, ... Read More
the % tax imposed on Hybrid by sesily
Hi everyone, I have one question: Specific model-Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid - it is a “Plug-in Hybrid” (different from typical hybrid). What would be the % tax imposed on it? Whom should I contact for more details? Thank you ! Sesily
Please post a link to the article. Read More
Looking for FDIC protected bank in PR
Ok. Just checked, banko popular is insured. My guess is that all banks are covered. CU maybe not. Read More
Looking for FDIC protected bank in PR
Hmmm... I use Banko Popular, but now realize that I didn’t ckeck to see if it is FDIC. I believe that the credit unions are not insured. Think I’ll check on this. 🧐 Read More
Isabella Home Inspector by laalinda
we are looking to purchase in Isabela area and i'm not sure how it works to hire a home inspector. would the inspector spend the day with us checking out houses? and if so, how much does that cost?
Good to know. Are the inspectors licensed or regulated by law? How do you know that they are qualified? Or can anyone declare themselves an inspector without any qualifications? 🤨 Read More
Isabella Home Inspector by laalinda
we are looking to purchase in Isabela area and i'm not sure how it works to hire a home inspector. would the inspector spend the day with us checking out houses? and if so, how much does that cost?
Personally, I think having a house inspection is a good idea. I have used inspection services previously in the states (Alaska) and considered the money well spent. However I am not sure that in PR inspection services are available. If you do ... Read More
We are looking into buying in the Isabela area by laalinda
Hi! I just signed up myself today. My husband and I are looking into buying in the Isabela area and are finding out the ups and downs of hunting down an agent. We have been pre-approved and now trying to get agents to return our calls, ugh!! good ...
we are currently under construction with a major remodel of our house. Working on the upper level now, then lower level next. The contractor bids the labor for the projects, I pay for materials, lighting, cabinets etc. We have the materials ... Read More
We are looking into buying in the Isabela area by laalinda
Hi! I just signed up myself today. My husband and I are looking into buying in the Isabela area and are finding out the ups and downs of hunting down an agent. We have been pre-approved and now trying to get agents to return our calls, ugh!! good ...
We looked pretty hard at property in Isabela. There is a nice small gated community that is on the high ground with nice views of the water to the north. A few nice houses and an open lot were on the market then. (this was a few years ago) Prices ... Read More
Any Integrative~Holistic Dentistry Referrals? by DeborahMarchant
Hola Friends ~ Over here on Avenue Isla Verde in Carolina, it's time I head in for a thorough dental exam and cleaning. :D 'Smile and Open Wide' Are there dentists similar to this one anywhere on this interesting island? So far, ...
Guess I’m kinda conservative on medical issues. I worked in the healthcare industry for many years, and come from a medical family. I trust evidence based medicine - the other stuff, not so much. Have a good day. It’s a ... Read More
pre-designed home kit
After Maria, it is clear that concrete is the only way to go. 😎 Read More
Rincon? San Juan? Opinions? by Dizzyelf
Hello, We are planning on moving to PR in September. I’m having a hard time narrowing down possible cities to move. We are in love with the whole island. I thought maybe you guys could help. Spanish isn’t a problem as I’m fluent. ...
All good advice. The north west coast is where we live. If surfing is important to you check out the shore from Hatillo going west, Isabella and points west. I think corona beer sponsors an annual surf contest in Rincon. Read More
Any Integrative~Holistic Dentistry Referrals? by DeborahMarchant
Hola Friends ~ Over here on Avenue Isla Verde in Carolina, it's time I head in for a thorough dental exam and cleaning. :D 'Smile and Open Wide' Are there dentists similar to this one anywhere on this interesting island? So far, ...
This type of dentistry is apparently controversial. Think I’ll stay with my regular dentist. I googled this. https://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/holisticdent Read More
Any Integrative~Holistic Dentistry Referrals? by DeborahMarchant
Hola Friends ~ Over here on Avenue Isla Verde in Carolina, it's time I head in for a thorough dental exam and cleaning. :D 'Smile and Open Wide' Are there dentists similar to this one anywhere on this interesting island? So far, ...
Hmmm...strikes me a bit odd. I need to get educated on the topic. What does the ADA have to say about the topic? Read More
I need a real estate agent, cabo rojo area by GuestPoster263
I'm looking for a real estate agent local to the cabo rojo area. good references required.
You gotta go there and drive/ walk around and talk to the local folks. Read More
Cost of living 2019 in Puerto Rico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As we usually do each year, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
Sandra, I was not aware that a dairy operation required a lot of water for processing? ? I have been to a couple of dairy farms but guess I don’t know what they do with the milk for processing. Read More
Cost of living 2019 in Puerto Rico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As we usually do each year, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
Yes. The cost of milk really gets my goat!! We live in the dairy district and a gallon of milk is about 6 dollars. Back in CT, milk is around 2 or 3. 😤😤 Meat and other grocery items about the same as US. We have a Sam’s ... Read More
GaNaZoZa by GaNaZoZa
Hello all! My lady and I have planned to relocate to a warmer climate for years. We are just waiting for all the kiddos to be out on their own. Two down, two to go. We have a list of places that we have been considering and in our travels have ...
Yes, location, location, location - that’s what they taught me in real estate school. But generally speaking, I think property sells 20-50% lower here. Since there is no MLS, you gotta spend serious time shopping and networking with ... Read More
GaNaZoZa by GaNaZoZa
Hello all! My lady and I have planned to relocate to a warmer climate for years. We are just waiting for all the kiddos to be out on their own. Two down, two to go. We have a list of places that we have been considering and in our travels have ...
We decided on PR for a few reasons. 1. Relatively inexpensive travel to the east coast. 2. It’s part of the USA - so we are citizens with rights and access to our judicial system. 3. Warm weather - hurricane risk is part of the package. ... Read More
Newbie. Tell me everything you know. by CoffeeCrew
Hi all! I'm new here but I'm also a sponge. Fill me with info and let me soak it up. Just returned from a trip to PR and I'm ready to make the leap into an investment property. Any general, get-your-ducks-in-a-row type of advice is ...
Well, my best guess for short time renters would be near the airports. That of course is San Juan and Aguadilla. Not my preference (San Juan) as traffic is horrible. 😤 Read More
Buying property in PR , closing February 1 - Need advice please by solgirl
HI, I'm buying a piece of land and finally everything is checked and done. Now i go to the closing but I am not sure how to get the money to the seller since there is no escrow and I am nervous to give it to the attorney, who I never met. And ...
Honestly I don’t recall. If he requested it I’m sure we would have given it to him. You have to be able to trust your lawyer - or get a different one. 😎 Read More
Buying a car in Puerto Rico by Rapidr28
I am thinking about buying a used car in Puerto Rico. I dont want to buy a stolen car. What types of proofs do I need to get from the seller to make sure its not stolen? Is it safe to buy from a private seller? I dont want to show up with cash in ...
Personally, I find that a van like a Odyssey is a very practical choice. It can haul six adults and luggage to the airport or beach. Take out the seats and haul building materials and stuff. Very versatile for me. I like pickups too, had several ... Read More
Shipping a car by pspsurf
Does anyone know the phone number to Departmento de Hacienda..? Im trying to get a quote for shipping a Honda Civic. The brand Honda is not an option to get a quote......do they call it something else down here ?
No, I didn’t have the cars checked by a mechanic. But that is always a good thing to do if you can. I did of course look them over carefully and test drive the car first. My current car was purchased from the original owner and had a ... Read More
Buying a car in Puerto Rico by Rapidr28
I am thinking about buying a used car in Puerto Rico. I dont want to buy a stolen car. What types of proofs do I need to get from the seller to make sure its not stolen? Is it safe to buy from a private seller? I dont want to show up with cash in ...
Best check out the tax you will need to pay to the Hacienda to import a car. I wanted to ship my Jeep, but the tax is over 6K. 😡 Read More
Shipping a car by pspsurf
Does anyone know the phone number to Departmento de Hacienda..? Im trying to get a quote for shipping a Honda Civic. The brand Honda is not an option to get a quote......do they call it something else down here ?
I have bought a couple of cars here on the island. From private parties, classified on line is a good starting place. Bought an Odyssey that was for sale on the side of the road. No sales tax on used cars here. 😊 Read More
Buying property in PR , closing February 1 - Need advice please by solgirl
HI, I'm buying a piece of land and finally everything is checked and done. Now i go to the closing but I am not sure how to get the money to the seller since there is no escrow and I am nervous to give it to the attorney, who I never met. And ...
When we bought a house here, we were in the states. On the buying trip, made a verbal offer that was accepted through the real estate broker, hired a PR real estate attorney to handle closing. It was a little complicated in that the title had a ... Read More
First time moving to PR, family of 5 by claybonz
Hello everyone. I am moving to Puerto Rico this summer 2019 for work. I am employed for the government and will work at Fort Buchanan. We are a family of five with three younger children. I am looking for recommendations on locales to live based ...
While we have not transitioned from a single family home to a condo, we do have friends who have. They have indicated a few issues with the transition. Living in a condo is impacted by the type of neighbors you have - quiet and courteous ... Read More
Vegetable garden in PR by Sitka
Anyone with experience growing vegetables in containers in PR? What varieties of tomatoes & peppers do well on the island? I recently put shade cloth over the patio, southern exposure, to try and reduce the heat to a point that my tomatoes ...
Hmmm, I have not tried to grow garlic here. But we did grow some elephant garlic in CT. It really spread out in the garden and kinda took over the area it was in so I got rid of it the next year. Garlic is cheap and readily available so I ... Read More
Vegetable garden in PR by Sitka
Anyone with experience growing vegetables in containers in PR? What varieties of tomatoes & peppers do well on the island? I recently put shade cloth over the patio, southern exposure, to try and reduce the heat to a point that my tomatoes ...
Victoria, We are on the north west side, Hatillo. I see you are on the southwest tip of the island. Here we have frequent showers and high humidity. I recall that your area seemed semi arid almost desert like in one area we drove through, so ... Read More
Vegetable garden in PR by Sitka
Anyone with experience growing vegetables in containers in PR? What varieties of tomatoes & peppers do well on the island? I recently put shade cloth over the patio, southern exposure, to try and reduce the heat to a point that my tomatoes ...
Update on my garden under shade cloth. With the garden environment now under 50% shade cloth, things are looking much better. The shade cloth covers the top, south and west exposures. The tomatoes are thriving, getting blossoms. Peppers from ... Read More
Back to researching land in PR by olddawgsrule
What I'm noticing on the local sites is this statement of 'strings'... What the heck is 16 strings equal to in acreage? For that matter square feet?
I would like to explore the south shore for possible purchase, the south and west coasts seem to have calmer seas. On the north side we sometimes get high surf and rough seas. Also, the climate on the south side seems dryer with less rain/ and ... Read More
Our experience in purchasing a home in beautiful Puerto Rico. by BrianTX
Here's the story: My wife and I put our home in Texas on the market in February of 2016. After lots of discussion, we (which means my beautiful wife) decided that it was just too far from everything. We live out in the country and even to go ...
When we purchased our house in PR, I had our lawyer record the deed in the name of our revocable family trust. When the trust was established (several years ago), all of our real property was changed and recorded in the name of the trust. It ... Read More
Back to researching land in PR by olddawgsrule
What I'm noticing on the local sites is this statement of 'strings'... What the heck is 16 strings equal to in acreage? For that matter square feet?
Really sorry to hear that Ponce is falling on hard times. We have visited the town a couple of times, I was impressed with the art museum and some of the local artists who make masks. When we have visitors from the States, we like the drive ... Read More
Pawpaw seeds. by Karenqc
Long shot, but does anyone have any interest in growing a Pawpaw plant? After a year of signing up with Kentucky State University's pawpaw program, (they're trying to revive the plant in Northern America) my seeds showed up in the mail ...
I am growing a papaya on my patio in a large container. Don’t know if it is male or female. It is now about 5 ft tall. How can you determine sex? Hoping for fruit. 🧐 Read More
Registering a car 7 months after registration tag expired, how to? by potholes
I was off the island, now returned, and the car registration has expired months ago, when I was gone. Since I was not here, obviously I was unable to renew the registration. If you miss the registration grace period, whatever that is, and go ...
The minimum required insurance to obtain the marbet sticker is ( as I recall) $4000 liability coverage, the Hacienda charges you about $100 for the policy. I went to the local insurance company (Seguros multiples) and got a policy 100/300K policy ... Read More
Vegetable garden in PR
Anyone with experience growing vegetables in containers in PR? What varieties of tomatoes & peppers do well on the island? I recently put shade cloth over the patio, southern exposure, to try and reduce the heat to a point that my tomatoes ... Read More
Back to researching land in PR by olddawgsrule
What I'm noticing on the local sites is this statement of 'strings'... What the heck is 16 strings equal to in acreage? For that matter square feet?
I had no luck trying to get assistance from a real estate agents on the phone. You must shop for property in person, boots on the ground. Read More