BrianTX
American expat in Puerto Rico
Forum posts
44
Contacts
7
About me
American
Lives in Quebradillas
Registration: 04 April 2016
Considering leaving Indonesia for PR by YearoftheRat
Hello Group! I'm a US citizen living on Bali, Indonesia and after nearly 5 years, I'm selling my house and making a move to a US Territory. Looking at PR, specifically Rincon. Reason for the move is ever increasing health insurance costs in SEA ...
I lived in Quebradillas,PR for 5 years (2016-2021). I’d still be there if my daughter hadn’t decided to have 2 kiddos. FB can have a lot of haters that can hate on anything. I can tell you that I didn’t experience any racism, ... Read More
Living in Puerto Rico by b344
I have some questions about moving to and living in Puerto Rico. Ideally, I'd like to live in Europe, but it's so difficult to immigrate there as an American. So if moving to Europe doesn't work out, I'd like to move to Puerto Rico since I won't ...
I can also recommend Duolingo (an app) and Collins Learn Spanish with Paul Noble on Audible. Both were helpful to me 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 ...
Hi Evelyn, thank you so much! Really means a lot that you enjoyed the read and it may be of some help. 3 weeks, wow that's great! If you could send me a PM with specific work that needs to be done on your home, I can recommend people that we ... 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
This link will show you charging stations here in PR https://chargehub.com/en/countries/puerto-rico.html 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
We have an electric car that we keep in Texas to use while we are there. You can plug it right into any electrical outlet. Ours has a little converter that we purchased in Home Depot. You can also have an electrician on the island install big one ... 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 ...
Hi SandyBeachBum! It is with pleasure that I can share our experience in hopes that it might help someone along the way. I am not too familiar living on that part of the island. I know ReyP is in Fajardo and might be able to shed some light for ... 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 ...
Cheers Michael. Really glad you enjoyed the read. Those are great areas to live & pretty close to where we live so we are familiar with them. Let me know when you are ready and I'm happy to help wherever I can Brian 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 ...
It sure is...over 2 hours but we typically just spend a night or 2 on the boat to break up the drive. I joined the FB group yesterday so I will let you know when we will be in Fajardo next 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 ...
Update: Marina & I have been in Puerto Rico for almost 3 years. We still love PR and all it has to offer. We have learned so much since our arrival & feel that we know our way around PR life much better now. We were here during hurricane ... Read More
Looking for FDIC protected bank in PR
Found this on Reuters: The 5 FDIC insured PR banks are: Banco Popular de Puerto Rico Banco Santander Puerto Rico First Bank Puerto Rico Oriental Bank Scotiabank de Puerto Rico Brian Read More
what to bring by laalinda
What are some things that you moved to PR that maybe you really didn't need? Should I bring my furniture or just buy when I get there? Small appliances- toaster, blender, crockpot? dishes? linens? As well, what are things you wish you took with ...
As someone else also pointed out, if it is expensive, I would bring it. Mainly because if you try to sell it before you move, you won't get much. As we all know, used furniture doesn't have a good ROI There are also certain styles & ... 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 ...
I am by far no expert as I have only lived in PR for almost 3 years but I would definitely suggest going with short term only as you mentioned. From my understanding, it is very difficult to get non paying, long term renters out of a property here ... 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. ...
Rincon & Palmas are really nice but tend to be more expensive so if you need to more stringent on how much you pay, that might be a challenge. Based on your comments, I would recommend seeing if you like any of these cities: Aguadilla, ... 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 ...
Welcome! We purchased right next door to Isabela in Quebradillas almost 3 years ago. We did a lot of renovations over the first 2 years. If you have the time & patience, building is always better because you are able to personalize your home. ... 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 ...
Hi Leslie. Thank you, it was a pleasure. Hopefully our experiences can help someone at some point. Yes, Rincon will typically be more expensive than other cities on the West side of the island. I would recommend making a trip to PR at some point ... 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 ...
You are very welcome. My goal was to hopefully help in some way by sharing our experiences 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 ...
I guess it goes back to location, location, location. The way I look at it is someone can build a $100-150k house and have a brand new home on quiet cul-de-sac street with a breathtaking ocean view for $250-300k. Actually a friend of Marina's ... 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 ...
If anyone is looking to build, a 1000 meter lot on my street just came up for sale. It has an amazing ocean view sitting on about 250 foot cliff overlooking the sea. I believe they are asking $150k. Let me know if you'd like the phone number ... 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 ...
Hi Gtlkritz, I have sent an email to you with the contact info. Those are great places to look! You may also consider looking in Anasco, Isabela & Quebradillas. Good luck to you & hope your transition goes well! Brian 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 ...
Hi Nikhil, We absolutely love living here. There are some amenities that we do miss since moving from Texas but that's just part of the experience. We could easily move back to Texas if we wanted to but the thought hasn't even crossed our ... 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 ...
After getting quotes from both La Rosa Del Monte & U-pack, U-pack was cheaper by about $1,000 for our shipment. U-pack doesn't ship cars though. I'd suggest getting quotes from both as a quote costs you nothing then choose from there. ... 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 ...
Hey all. Sorry I have been terrible about updating our move to PR. We have been super busy doing things to the house both inside & out. We also have to squeeze in some beach time as well. We have been living full time in PR for about 5 months ... 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 ...
You are quite welcome TravelingJ. I read a lot of posts here to get some insight & guidance as well. It's with pleasure that I can try to return the favor. Hopefully some of our experiences will help someone on their journey to live on this ... 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 ...
Rey It wasn't for an attorney here in Texas, we were doing the POA for our attorney in PR. Not all POAs have to come to Texas for verification. Ours had to go to Austin because that is our capital. I can only assume that they don't trust ... 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 ...
You're welcome Mike. Hope some of the info helps! Good luck on the move/retirement in PR. 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 ...
Another thing that I forgot to mention regarding POAs. Marina and I had initially planned on doing a Power of Attorney to have our attorney sign all of the closing documents for us so we wouldn't have to fly to PR just to close then fly back. ... 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 ...
Thank you Rey! They told us their water bill was around $75 and electric was $150 but they use the bedroom A/Cs every night during the summer. Water where we live in Texas is about $50-60 a month and electric around $200 per month. He did say ... 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 ...
Update: Marina and I flew to PR on Thursday May 19th to close on the house. We made our closing time for the afternoon to allow us time to get from the airport to the attorney's office by 3:30pm. I had read many stories of closing taking ... 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 ...
Thank you Schuttzie, I am glad you enjoyed the read! We are very excited indeed! Read More
Shipping car to PR? by TravelingJ
I have read that it is a nightmare to ship your car to PR, but my car is relatively new and I would take a huge hit on it if I were to sell and would have to buy a lesser car. My question is how much is the excise tax? When I went to the Haceinda ...
TravelingJ that's a bad spot to be in but it sounds like you may be better off shipping it. You may already have this covered but just in case, I will mention it. If you have a lienholder on your vehicle, you'll need to get permission to ... Read More
Shipping car to PR? by TravelingJ
I have read that it is a nightmare to ship your car to PR, but my car is relatively new and I would take a huge hit on it if I were to sell and would have to buy a lesser car. My question is how much is the excise tax? When I went to the Haceinda ...
Just looked and you can purchase a brand new 2016 at GMC dealer for $43,057 with an MSRP of $50,655. Read More
Drinking Water? by TravelingJ
I assume the water out of the tap is drinkable? Do people use a filter? Let me know what you do on the island for drinking water without contaminates (chlorine, minerals, fluoride, etc). I currently have a reverse osmosis system in my house on the ...
Quebradillas has recycling pick up once per week at your home as well Read More
Relator/Broker needed San Juan by luis.grace
Hello, after looking around we want to explore the option of buying a home rather than renting. Can anyone recommend a good relator and/or broker in the San Juan area? Can I use a broker from FL, USA? If anyone knows! Thanks! :)
I also worked with Carlos at 247realestatepr here on the forums and my wife and I were very happy with the results. He was professional, informative and efficient. He speaks fluent English and Spanish as well. Good luck to you! Read More
Shipping car to PR? by TravelingJ
I have read that it is a nightmare to ship your car to PR, but my car is relatively new and I would take a huge hit on it if I were to sell and would have to buy a lesser car. My question is how much is the excise tax? When I went to the Haceinda ...
Although I decided not to ship my 2015 GMC 1500 Crew Cab truck because of the total cost, I can tell you that I was quoted $2,800 from La Rosa Del Monte. They pick it up from your residence and transport it to PR. My quote was from Dallas, TX area ... 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 ...
Thank you Thomas! Congrats on the move & hope all goes well! 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 ...
Thank you Carlos! You are the man. We look forward to seeing you very soon :) 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 ...
Cheers rich! I am glad you enjoyed it 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 you did Sandra. I appreciate it very much and will give him a call once we know when our container will be dropped Read More
Our experience in purchasing a home in beautiful Puerto Rico.
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 ... Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourself here 1st quarter of 2016 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Puerto Rico forum? Dont 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 ...
Yep. Maryna and I will be staying in Cabo Rojo the 16th through the 23rd Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourself here 1st quarter of 2016 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Puerto Rico forum? Dont 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 ...
I am 100% Texan although I lived in California for several years and in Panama for 6 months on a deployment while I was in the Army. My wife is originally from Ukraine. Nothing wrong with enjoying good food that's terrible for us too. We do ... Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourself here 1st quarter of 2016 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Puerto Rico forum? Dont 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 ...
Thank you everyone for the warm welcome! We are very excited and look forward to our first PMV on April 16th. We hope to meet you all in person at some point. Everyone here seems so nice, warm and helpful. @Rey - Thank you for the information ... Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourself here 1st quarter of 2016 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Puerto Rico forum? Dont 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 ...
Hi everyone! My name is Brian and my wife, Maryna, and I currently live in Texas but we want to move to PR in the very near future. Our kids are grown so it is just the 2 of us + Buddy (our Italian Greyhound). We are looking primarily on the ... Read More