WarnerW
American expat in Puerto Rico
Forum posts
314
Contacts
5
About me
American
Lives in Cabo Rojo
Registration: 02 August 2016
4 Months Living in Puerto Rico...This is what I have learned so far by hct408
I wrote a post a couple months ago detailing my thoughts on Puerto Rico after having lived here for three weeks. We are now four months into our stay here and I have more to add. I guess, I want to point out that I think of expats who live here as ...
@Maz Josh What area of the island? What municipality? Read More
PR Act 20/22; Roth Conversion Ladder, FIRE Tactics? by BoricuaWannabe
Please be patient with my lengthy consideration here. I'm trying to import some of the strategies used by the FI/RE folks, which are largely stymied by US/PR differences. First, I understand that IRA/401k [i]distributions [/i] are considered ...
Singularitynear is correct that you should consult a good CPA, one with experience in this matter. Better odds of finding one on the island than the mainland. I disagree that Act 20/22 was made for those who are "loaded", but that's ... Read More
What website shows the recent Puerto Rico local election results? by bothas
What website shows the recent Puerto Rico local election results, such as the # of votes received for each PR candidate running for mayor, senate, representative?
Under the US Constitution, all elections are managed within the states, so in Puerto Rico's case, island elections are managed by the State Commission on Elections. Their website is http://ceepur.org/ Read More
Relocating to Puerto Rico for Tax Act 20 & 22? by KWRealEstate_Act2022
Now is easier for those Relocating to Puerto Rico, for Act 20 & 22. Check the new changes! https://goo.gl/YC6uhS
Welcome to the forum. I'm not certain I understand your business model, but I don't know that is especially relevant. Two points: First, Act 20/22 have been combined into Act 60, and in that process some provisions of each were dropped. ... 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 ...
Ah, if only Sancho Panza were governor of Puerto Rico! Read More
Importing a shipping container house from mainland US to PR by JakeWhiskey
Hello All, newbie here. I'm Jake, and I am considering moving to PR. I was thinking about building out a shipping container as a house here in Colorado and then shipping it down there. Does anyone have any experience with importing a prefab ...
Shipping containers are readily available on the island. My guess is that the costs of pre-fabing and shipping from Colorado are prohibitive. My advice is to search "articulos" in Clasificados for "contenedor". 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 ...
My advice would be to talk to a licensed contractor on the island, but I grew up in the building trades, and it seems to me that you'd be in pretty good shape. Slab foundations are quite common, as are concrete walls, either block, tilt-up, or ... 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 ...
Seedlings? Are you trying to grow citrus from seed? If so, you will be disappointed with the results. Yes, you can get the seeds to sprout, and yes, they will grow into citrus trees. However, they will not be true to the parent plant, and so you ... 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 ...
That seems high to me as well Larry, although a 6KW system is pretty big. Coach, have you measured your electricity usage? Sure you need that much? Anyway, I'm confident you can find a better price. Here's an easy and convenient source ... Read More
Setting up new house in Vieques by solgirl
HI everyone, We finally are building the new house. We are -wondering where to buy appliances and furniture ? Walmart Puerto Rico ? maybe its cheaper to buy everything at once in miami and ship door to door. We have two small kids so really ...
You might also consider Rooms To Go. Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2020 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 on ...
Welcome to the forum. I'll let others give advice on best towns; my advice is spend some time on the island to get to know the areas. For such a relatively small island, it is quite diverse. Regarding income taxes, I'd refer you to IRS ... 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.
Official reports on earthquakes, from the US Geological Survey: https://www.usgs.gov/products/data-and-tools/real-time-data/earthquakes 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.
My wife and I just returned this afternoon. I went for a conference in San Juan, but we left early for a bit of a vacation. Spent Sunday night in Ponce, and got dumped out of bed at 6:30 am (Monday) by a significant quake, 5-point something. No ... 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 ...
I presume this is a reference to the Citrus Greening (CG) virus. This affects commercial citrus farms as the virus is spread by the grafting process. If the budwood is infected, then when it is grafted onto rootstock the tree that develops will be ... Read More
Expat interest in politics in Puerto Rico by Bhavna
Hello everyone, As an expat, your day-to-day life in Puerto Rico is impacted by decision-making at the political level in your host country as well as in your country of origin. We would like to know how involved you think expats should be in the ...
I hope that by a "political stance" you mean partisan or ideological, but the term (and the policy) remains unclear. I concur that the forum is better off without political partisanship, but my experience has been quite different. I had ... Read More
Expat interest in politics in Puerto Rico by Bhavna
Hello everyone, As an expat, your day-to-day life in Puerto Rico is impacted by decision-making at the political level in your host country as well as in your country of origin. We would like to know how involved you think expats should be in the ...
Bhavna, Please clarify Expat.com's policy on political discussions. I'm a professor of politics at a small liberal arts college, and agree that " day-to-day life in Puerto Rico is impacted by decision-making at the political level in ... 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!
Thanks Sitka. For me, the decision not to go with solar is based on two factors, both of which were mentioned in my previous post. In the first place, I'm an empty nester, so it's just me and the missus. Not a lot of demand for hot water. ... 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!
Spot, I too have thought about a solar water heater, but I suspect I will go with a tankless electric instead. Primary reason is low usage of hot water will make the cost of the solar prohibitive. In addition, I've got the same concern that ... Read More
Cost of importing a Jeep by Sanfordsix
We’re considering moving to PR in the next couple of months but I have a major concern: my beloved Jeep! I finally purchased my dream car a little over a year ago and am currently upside-down in my loan. I used the tax estimator and found that ...
Sorry about that. In this case I can either tell you what you'd like to hear, or what is true, at least as I understand it. Your husband will be pleased to hear that my advice to you is the same as his. Not only is that in all likelihood ... Read More
Cost of importing a Jeep by Sanfordsix
We’re considering moving to PR in the next couple of months but I have a major concern: my beloved Jeep! I finally purchased my dream car a little over a year ago and am currently upside-down in my loan. I used the tax estimator and found that ...
$7500 for tax on a Jeep seems about right. Expect to spend at least $1500 for the shipping. Miscellaneous expenses will probably bring the total cost to bring your vehicle to the island to $10,000. Sticker shock is common, especially if the ... Read More
Moving to Puerto Rico on a limited income by Paige 487
This is my first post in the forums and I am looking for advice on moving to Puerto Rico on, at least for the short term, limited funds. I’m a psychologist in private practice in the mainland US, but am recently divorced with no savings to ...
Welcome to the forum. Let's see..... The short answer is that most Puerto Rican families live on less than $2000/month. The question is whether you can live like most Puerto Rican families. A quick look at clasificados for rentals in the ... 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, ...
Collection of rainwater in cisterns is common in Puerto Rico. Should be an easy matter, especially for non-potable uses. Regarding the legality of it, that strikes me as a political question, and therefore strictly forbidden on this site. 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 ...
Homework, I'm afraid. Still on the mainland, looks like 4 more years until retirement. Been trying to find undeveloped property in the right location for the right price. I can afford to be patient, which is a necessary virtue when trying to ... Read More
home building in puerto rico by mike hoch
I am planning to build a home in santa Isabel,pr.i own the land out right and will be paying cash for the house to be built.((no bank loans)it is my understanding that after you have permission to build any one can erect the house. my question is do ...
I lived in what was essentially a conex (the Army calls it a CHU, "Containerized Housing Unit") from July 2007 to July 2008. No thanks, too many memories, few of them pleasant. To Coach's question, I too would like to see some recent ... 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 ...
Selling electricity is known as "net metering" and Puerto Rico does allow that. In short, your solar array is connected to the grid (it's an on-grid system) and when the sun shines and you produce more power than you consume, your ... 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
Looks like good news for you. Plug-in hybrids seem to be exempt as well. 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
Puerto Rico is waiving the excise tax on electric vehicles -- don't know about hybrids. Let me see if I can find the article on this..... Read More
Tenants rights after hurricane maria by JoyceMeghan
My spouse and I rented a house in Añasco beginning in March 2016. Our lease ended in March 2017. At that time, we made a verbal agreement to continue renting the home through December 2017. The lease stipulated that home repairs were our ...
First, a disclaimer. I'm not a lawyer, but I've got more than a layman's knowledge of the law. I'm also a landlord, so I've got some experience here as well. Let me get the two basic pieces of advice out of the way. To ... Read More
Help returning to roots-first step inquiries by NrsCyn5
Hello all, My husband and I are both born in Puerto Rico but raised in the states. We have both always wanted to move back and would only do so with the right opportunities. We are both successful by American standards (professional, house, etc) and ...
My suspicion is that you will wind up settling on the latter, "finding property and just visiting." Sorry to tell you that. My wife is a RN, a floor nurse with Med/Surg certification. We looked at nursing jobs a couple of years ago 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 ...
I certainly hope you are correct. For the record, I'm not a lawyer. Even worse, I'm a political scientist with an expertise in constitutional law and comparative legal systems, so I look at the law very differently than a lawyer will. ... 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 ...
Puerto Rico is under a civil code system, not common law like most of the mainland. Estate law is very different on the island. Do a search in the forum for "forced heirship" to get you started. 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 too am sad to hear that Ponce is falling on hard times. My wife and I made it our base of operations when we were scouting property a few years ago. We stayed at Hotel Belgica, a lovely old place. Really charming town. We spoke with the locals ... 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 ...
Tomatoes and peppers are both hot season vegetables, but the tropical sun can be relentless, so shade in the mid-day is a great idea. Lettuce and other greens are cold season crops. That's gonna be a real tough order. Common advice I've ... 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?
That's the figure I was given by a real estate agent in San Juan. I've never really done the math on it. Out of curiousity, i "Googled" cuerda, and according to Wikipedia, a cuerda is equal to .971 acre. I've always read a ... 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?
Yep. Cuerdas, which are .98 acre, is often translated as "strings". Edit: Oh, and an acre is 43,000 square feet. Read More
Mistakes expats make in Puerto Rico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Did you make any mistakes when you first moved to Puerto Rico? What were they? How did you address your mistakes? Did you learn anything from them? With hindsight, what would you do differently? Are there any tips you ...
While I wouldn't suggest that emigres to Puerto Rico should only aspire to the lifestyle of the average Puerto Rican, I do think it is a mistake to believe that one will enjoy in Puerto Rico precisely the same commodities as they once enjoyed on ... Read More
Loiza or Cabo Rojo to buy by edibxgrl
Hola, Looking to buy an apartment (condo) for vacation and possible retirement -- l live in NY and traveling to P.R. soon to look at properties in Loiza and in Cabo Rojo. Any opinion as to prices, area? Thanks.
My understanding is that the short-term rental market in Cabo Rojo is predominately locals. Rentals in Loiza/Luquillo/Fajardo are more likely to be for "los afuertos". Of course, if the idea is to buy in the area that you find most ... Read More
Advice on tax implications by ChristianEKR
Hi Everyone, My name is Christian and my wife and son and I are looking to move to Rincon/Aguada area in the next upcoming year. We are a young, active, and hopefully growing family and want to set up Puerto Rican roots. We grew up going to Rincon ...
Welcome to the forum Christian. You are correct regarding payment of income tax. Here's a link to IRS information on the topic of federal taxes for Puerto Rican residents. Read More
Town you call home by ReyP
What town in PR are you living in or planing to move to?
Trying to buy in El Combate, Cabo Rojo. Read More
Can anyone explain options on island property? by DocRob
I know on the mainland if you want to option a property, it usually involves placing an amount of money on the table and contracting that you will buy it in such and such time and amount. If you don't exercise the option, you forfeit the ...
I had hoped that Larry would chime in. Always good to hear from someone with a professional's knowledge and experience. From what I've been told, deeds are recorded in two offices, one for registration purposes and the other for taxation. ... Read More
Can anyone explain options on island property? by DocRob
I know on the mainland if you want to option a property, it usually involves placing an amount of money on the table and contracting that you will buy it in such and such time and amount. If you don't exercise the option, you forfeit the ...
There are a few folks in the profession that are members of the forum. Perhaps they can help. My experience is that Sitka is correct, that the deal struck can be idiosyncratic. If you can imagine it, it can be included in the contract. However, ... Read More
Puerto Rico vs. Expat Havens in the Americas by seoulguy
I have read the posts, and I can see that many are a reflection of (let's face it) the increasing bad to shockingly bad behavior worldwide. This puts would-be expats in an awkward position, perhaps having to make the best choice among the many ...
Thanks for the kind words Seoulguy. I said that the problems could be mitigated against, that is, advance steps could be taken to reduce their likelihood or severity. Take property crime for instance. Keeping the property well-lit, doors locked ... Read More
Puerto Rico vs. Expat Havens in the Americas by seoulguy
I have read the posts, and I can see that many are a reflection of (let's face it) the increasing bad to shockingly bad behavior worldwide. This puts would-be expats in an awkward position, perhaps having to make the best choice among the many ...
Seems to me that you can have at most only two of the following: Low cost of living Security/rule of law Quality public services As a rule, less-developed countries offer the first, but not the second or third. The mature economies of the ... Read More
Retired Military Moving to PR...hopefully! by gbillman
Interested if any blog members are retired US military who have moved to PR. My wife and I are contemplating moving within the year and are very interested in how military retired pay is taxed in PR...not sure how Article 22 applies to that, as ...
Since I'm neither a veteran nor even on the island yet, I stayed out of the thread. As I read your original post however, let me suggest a few responses. In terms of military retirement benefits exclusive of pension, expect no change from the ... Read More
Vehicular jungle by seoulguy
I couldn't find current statistics on pedestrian mortality, but I did find the following article with stunning statistics: ...
Didn't work for me either Rey, so I "Googled" enough to find it. Made it a tiny URL. Let's see if this works for you. Read More
Home Inspector in Rincon by rambla
Would anyone be able to recommend a home inspector in Rincon? On socia media I’ve read many comments from gringos stating that it’s a waste of time and money to have one done in PR. Their reasons were basically that the reports ...
I'm delighted. As I said, my interest is in their construction methods, but I have no experience working with them. Please let us know how it goes. Read More
Home Inspector in Rincon by rambla
Would anyone be able to recommend a home inspector in Rincon? On socia media I’ve read many comments from gringos stating that it’s a waste of time and money to have one done in PR. Their reasons were basically that the reports ...
Just noticed that there's a contractor in the area that also does home inspections. They are NACHI certified. Costa Brava. Might be worth a call. I should say that I'm interested in their construction methods, but have no experience with ... Read More
Recommendations for Fruit Tree Nurseries in Puerto Rico by Jcherry
Because of the damage to a lot of the trees in puerto rico, I am wondering if folks have any recommendation for operational fruit tree nurseries to use for relandscaping one's property.
Worth the drive down to Cabo Rojo. Jardines Eneida Read More
Home Inspector in Rincon by rambla
Would anyone be able to recommend a home inspector in Rincon? On socia media I’ve read many comments from gringos stating that it’s a waste of time and money to have one done in PR. Their reasons were basically that the reports ...
There are a number of professional associations for home inspectors. Here's a pretty good association -- I can't vouch for any particular inspector, but this is usually an indication of some level of professionalism. Read More
hot water heater and water backup by rambla
Hola everyone, I am in the process of purchasing a house with a solar hot water heater and water backup. We are a city family with 0 knowledge of things like this. Except knowing that they in addition to a generator are good to have. Google has not ...
A 5-gallon tank is the same as a 20-lb tank. Basic tank for a gas grill. Read More
hot water heater and water backup by rambla
Hola everyone, I am in the process of purchasing a house with a solar hot water heater and water backup. We are a city family with 0 knowledge of things like this. Except knowing that they in addition to a generator are good to have. Google has not ...
Welcome to the forum Rambla! Solar water heaters are a sensible addition to your home's water system. Most often they are passive, meaning that cold water flows through narrow black pipes exposed to sunlight, heating the water as it flows. ... Read More
Repair in PR by Sundaiirose
[url]IMG_3738.JPG[/url] Hello in PR the condo I’m staying in has rotating window panels kinda like blinds? One fell as I was opening the balcony door? Anyone know where I should go to replace it?
I can't see the picture either, but I suspect that what you have is vertical blinds Don't know where you would find them on the island, but they are easy to find online. Lowes/Home Depot will either have them in stock or order them for ... Read More
Successes in your career in Puerto Rico by Priscilla
Hello, Becoming an expat means starting over in a new country, and a lot of times that also means starting over in your career as well. How have your skills and experiences evolved since moving to Puerto Rico? What does being successful ...
Looks like many frequently-purchased items are as expensive or more expensive than the mainland. The price of a gallon of milk always seems to make eyes pop. So I suspect that it is individual, common items like that which make people believe the ... Read More
Successes in your career in Puerto Rico by Priscilla
Hello, Becoming an expat means starting over in a new country, and a lot of times that also means starting over in your career as well. How have your skills and experiences evolved since moving to Puerto Rico? What does being successful ...
Not so. Cost of living in PR is roughly 80% of the US average. It's difficult to find the figures, but a dollar goes further in PR. This seems principally to be a function of low rents and low property taxes. Here's an interesting site ... Read More
Moving to Puerto Rico by adamcamp
I am looking to move to Puerto Rico for a gap year in between highschool and college. I currently live in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I will be staying in Puerto Rico from the Summer of 2019 to the Summer 2020. My plan is to find a place to stay ...
https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=745289 Read More
Moving to PR next year by Mandywave
*ive posted a similar article in the FB page as well. Hi guys! I’m hopefully doing this post right. If not my apologies. I’m new here and my name is Amanda. I live in Japan and have been for eight years. I have a partner who is ...
El Yunque is a US National Park, so employment there is federal, not local. Here's the USDA National Parks site for more information, including employment at El Yunque. Read More
Time Is Here To Buy by mrtibbs
Hello all, So the time is upon us to buy and we will be in Puerto Rico (our home away from home) in a couple of weeks to start looking at properties. Initially, we were going to make a cash purchase but have decided it'd be wiser for our ...
Not sure if I understand your post correctly. Looks like you are interested in buying one property as a second or vacation home for you, and you hope to rent it when you do not occupy it. And the question is whether you buy in Aguadilla or spend ... Read More
Speeding ticket and the points system by cram1
So I just received a speeding ticket traveling on PR-66 from Fajardo to SJ. The officer said he clocked me going 79 mph in a 65. I am trying to figure out how to pay it. Doing to little research it seems I have to go to a "Colecture" or ...
Yes, that's "Trial Court" in English. Read More
New Financial Plan for PR by ReyP
The PROMESA board (http://www.promesacodex.com/oversight-board.html) has decided they had enough with the government delays and financial plans, so they have drafted and are about to implement a new financial plan for the island, the university, ...
Please note that my objection was that pot wouldn't pay the bills. The moral question of whether it should be legalized is a separate issue. Raising taxes doesn't necessarily generate more revenue. Growing the economy generates more ... Read More
New Financial Plan for PR by ReyP
The PROMESA board (http://www.promesacodex.com/oversight-board.html) has decided they had enough with the government delays and financial plans, so they have drafted and are about to implement a new financial plan for the island, the university, ...
This claim comes up often, as does the "blame the Jones Act" claim, but both miss the mark. While the Jones Act certainly adds some cost to goods in PR, it is not responsible for the economic problems on the island. Further, legalizing ... Read More
How much PR Income tax? by guitar333
Can anyone tell me how much exactly a person would pay in puerto rico income taxes considering the below? I tried a few calculators online but my results have varied. $96,252 salary paid biweekly , single/not married, 1 withholding allowance I ...
What the heck. Just came across this blog postfrom an "expat" who moved to PR and set up an online business. Quick summary, higher taxes. Read More
How much PR Income tax? by guitar333
Can anyone tell me how much exactly a person would pay in puerto rico income taxes considering the below? I tried a few calculators online but my results have varied. $96,252 salary paid biweekly , single/not married, 1 withholding allowance I ...
As Rey suggested, this is no easy calculation. I'm glad you've asked it though, as I imagine that it's an important consideration when deciding whether to relocate to Puerto Rico. Perhaps a useful table can be found here. The table ... Read More
New Financial Plan for PR by ReyP
The PROMESA board (http://www.promesacodex.com/oversight-board.html) has decided they had enough with the government delays and financial plans, so they have drafted and are about to implement a new financial plan for the island, the university, ...
Here's a link to the plans, in English. You will be prompted to subscribe to the mailing list, but you can simply cancel. The plan itself is 147 pages. The picture it paints of the current condition of Puerto Rico is bleak, but I think ... Read More
New Financial Plan for PR by ReyP
The PROMESA board (http://www.promesacodex.com/oversight-board.html) has decided they had enough with the government delays and financial plans, so they have drafted and are about to implement a new financial plan for the island, the university, ...
For the sake of comparison, my college charges $300 per credit hour for summer courses. UPR has been very heavily subsidized. This is an interesting matter of federalism (the relationship between the national government and the states) and should ... Read More
Crime in Ponce by annabfalter
I regret to post that we had a chilling experience two weeks ago. My husband was tired, so we stopped to change drivers along a highway exit ramp on 52/506 east of Ponce. This was about 2 pm, broad daylight, very busy road with many other ...
I too don't wish to hazard a guess about this particular case. However, I will share my story, though it is not nearly so chilling. Wife and I, first trip. Stayed in Ponce as our base of operations and were interested in a property in ... Read More
roofing in puerto rico by Mark&LindaHorta
metal roofing in puerto rico
It gets hot in the summer. Read More
Just returned from Puerto Rico, need rental help. Also observations - by gardener1
We just spent 2 weeks in PR on a retirement scouting expedition to see if we would and could want to live there. The answer is yes, we would. But housing looks like a serious difficulty. Help? There seems to be a shortage of affordable reliable ...
You may want to check the classificados Facebook page for west PR. Lots there that doesn't appear in clasificados. Also a good place to post inquiries. EDIT: Ooops! Rey is right and I have conflated two threads. My apologies. Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 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 ...
Welcome! Which part of the island? Read More
How to deal on property by annabfalter
We are again looking at properties in the southwest. Many of them seem to be way overpriced based on location and condition. Is there any way to look up sales information on comparable properties that have recently sold? I don’t want to ...
Ann, market price is nothing more than what a buyer is willing to pay. As Rey pointed out, many sellers seem to have inflated ideas of the market price, which is not necessarily what they happen to think the "house is worth". I really ... Read More
PREPA / AEE Draft Financial plan by ReyP
Looks like PREPA will be raising the KWH to 30 cents with in the next 5 years if the PROMESA board approves their financial plan. ...
That's the plan Gary. The rate hike is to make payments on PREPA debt. Don't expect any improvement in services. From page 28 of the plan to which Rey linked: "Funding debt service at any level will require a rate increase over ... Read More
Amazon - IVU by Gary
According to what we read in the newspapers, Amazon will start to add IVU to all purchases from Puerto Rico, starting 4-1. (I hope it's a april's fool joke but I'm afraid it is true).
Oh, taxes and regulatory burden (both economic "costs") seem to be the twin driving forces in a shadow economy. Hmmmm. High taxes and arcane regulations. Sound familiar? Read More
Amazon - IVU by Gary
According to what we read in the newspapers, Amazon will start to add IVU to all purchases from Puerto Rico, starting 4-1. (I hope it's a april's fool joke but I'm afraid it is true).
Dr. Friedrich Schneider seems to be "the guy" on shadow economies. Two ways to measure. First, a simple random sample and questionnaire. This method is subject to the same sorts of problems that accompany such instruments and ... Read More
Amazon - IVU by Gary
According to what we read in the newspapers, Amazon will start to add IVU to all purchases from Puerto Rico, starting 4-1. (I hope it's a april's fool joke but I'm afraid it is true).
Yeah, and to Gary's observation that those leaving the island are looking for work, not lower taxes, it seems to me to be a collection of odd policies that produce conflicting and undesirable outcomes. I think Gary is right that most leave ... Read More
Amazon - IVU by Gary
According to what we read in the newspapers, Amazon will start to add IVU to all purchases from Puerto Rico, starting 4-1. (I hope it's a april's fool joke but I'm afraid it is true).
Can't say that I'm surprised. Comes when the economically illiterate make tax policy. There's an idea in economics frequently called the "Laffer Curve" (Laffer didn't invent it), which basically says that public revenues ... Read More
New to Puerto Rico - How to meet people? by mealemany
Hello! I'm from Texas and I just moved to Puerto Rico (Condado area), and I'm looking to meet new people. Are there groups/organizations/volunteering/etc that are available here in San Juan area to meet new people? I searched on meetup.com ...
Como se dice "Do-si-do"? :) Read More
How to deal on property by annabfalter
We are again looking at properties in the southwest. Many of them seem to be way overpriced based on location and condition. Is there any way to look up sales information on comparable properties that have recently sold? I don’t want to ...
A great question Rey, and one I can't answer. As I'm sure you know, on the mainland, it's only living space. Read More
How to deal on property by annabfalter
We are again looking at properties in the southwest. Many of them seem to be way overpriced based on location and condition. Is there any way to look up sales information on comparable properties that have recently sold? I don’t want to ...
Yeah, the real estate market is just the Wild West. I guess that, along with almost everything else in Puerto Rico, you just try and roll with it, I honestly don't know that there's a single, simple answer to your question Ann. Here's ... Read More
Wifi and Internet connections for working. by jclifton309
Really interested in relocating to PR for a while to see if it could possibly be our future home. We both work 100% online with a need for a constant internet connection. Has the infrastructure of the island got to the point where there is at ...
Here's a link to a recent blog on this very topic from one of the forum members. Read More
Question about selling in mainland by ReyP
I have most of my logistics all lined up for a move to Puerto Rico with the exception that I still need to sell my place. In a couple of months we plan to put my place in the market and once it sells, head to PR. My fear is that scenario could ...
Yeah, not a lot of guarantees Rey. Most offers will include contingency clauses such as satisfactory home inspection, securing the loan, etc. Lots of ways that a buyer can back away from the deal. My advice is to pack your household items and put ... Read More
Rethinking our relocation to Puerto Rico because of forced heirship by mrwetzel
My husband and I are in Puerto Rico now (our third trip this year) on a house hunting trip. We thought we would be moving to Puerto Rico within the next year. That was until we learned about the forced heirship laws. We both have children from ...
Puerto Rico is a "civil law" jurisdiction, as opposed to a "common law" jurisdiction, which you would find in almost all of the states. Or to think of it another way, Puerto Rico's law is more like Europe, as opposed to ... Read More
Four months after Maria by Gary
Yesterday we 'celebrated' four months after Maria. Still no electricity here, a faith we share with 36% of the island. We have water, 7% of the households do not and the quality of the water is such that a boiling advice is still ...
While it's tempting to point fingers (and PREPA certainly succumbed to that temptation in it's statement), I'd rather focus on the conditions as they are, and the conditions in the likely future. So, regardless of how the public ... 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 ...
If you don't own it, you probably won't be able to ship it. If you fail to make the payments, the bank will repossess the car. If you ship it to Puerto Rico, the bank can't repossess. You might be able to get the bank to agree to let ... Read More
Tips on Buying a Home Cash Down by mrtibbs
Hello all, We are looking to buy a turn key modest home in Isabela or Aguadilla. There is a lot of useful information on this Forum. However, I know that the rules are different in terms of house hunting in Puerto Rico as opposed to the states. Our ...
Hmm. Vacant houses are tempting targets. This isn't such an issue if you are buying a condo, but if your plan is for a detached house with some property, security while the home is unoccupied is a real concern. Is there someone you trust who ... Read More
Four months after Maria by Gary
Yesterday we 'celebrated' four months after Maria. Still no electricity here, a faith we share with 36% of the island. We have water, 7% of the households do not and the quality of the water is such that a boiling advice is still ...
Gary, no disrespect taken. No, I'm not on the island, and I'm certainly sympathetic to your struggles. My point wasn't that things aren't difficult, rather that FEMA operates under statutory and constitutional restraints, as well ... Read More
Four months after Maria by Gary
Yesterday we 'celebrated' four months after Maria. Still no electricity here, a faith we share with 36% of the island. We have water, 7% of the households do not and the quality of the water is such that a boiling advice is still ...
Rey: Absolutely right on FEMA. They get a lot of criticism, little of which is deserved. Regarding the sale of PREPA, I understand it as you do -- on the block is power generation, not transmission. I also think that the buyer buys the capital ... Read More
Four months after Maria by Gary
Yesterday we 'celebrated' four months after Maria. Still no electricity here, a faith we share with 36% of the island. We have water, 7% of the households do not and the quality of the water is such that a boiling advice is still ...
Hard to blame this on the federal government: https://www.npr.org/2018/01/11/577439244/puerto-rico-governor-asks-doj-to-investigate-island-s-public-power-utility Read More
real estate shopping in puerto rico by davidtx
(links on our [url=http://www.blackandgoldcoast.com/real-estate-shopping-in-puerto-rico/]website[/url]) Unless you've been living under a rock, you are probably at least vaguely aware that the Puerto Rican government is currently embroiled in a ...
And the peace of mind. I'm interested in a REO, a bank-foreclosed property. The negotiations with the bank have been interminable, and since Dec. 2016 the property has been tied up in court to resolve title issues. My advice to would-be ... Read More
Investigating to move to Puerto Rico by Franklyone
Hi, I'm Frank. My wife and I are researching PR to move to. Here's what we like and or need: 1. Walkability to shops, eateries, pubs, etc. 2. Stand alone home with decent yard for dog and gardening. 3. Do not want to live in a big city, ...
To Sitka's point, my suspicion is that there are few specialists on the island, and those that are local are at the end of their careers. Many young health professionals (and other professionals) are leaving the island for better opportunities ... Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Puerto Rico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, 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, I knew that it was an annual thread. My suggestion was that, since this is likely a topic of broad interest among those considering a move to Puerto Rico, the data might be collected and updated in a single post, prominently displayed and ... Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Puerto Rico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, 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 ...
Priscilla this is a wonderful post, and I applaud you and the expat team for wanting to collect this data. Let me recommend that you create a post and pin it (and close it) so that it is readily available to those looking for cost of living ... Read More
P.R. A.M. - P.M. by londonpride
Wasn't sure where to post this since there are several different active threads about issues ante-maria & post-maria. A.M. and P.M. have taken on an additional meaning since 9/20. So I started this thread. The moderator from Expat can ...
Don't particularly care to get into a debate about the wisdom of recent tax reform, but regardless of whether the policy is wise or not, I don't see how Rey's statement is accurate. The tax reform reduced U.S. corporate taxes to just ... Read More
Taxes information on PR by sontek
My wife and I have been looking into moving to Puerto Rico and finally found the perfect school for our two sons and are ready to move to the island. We have some questions related to taxes though and I was told to ask you! 1. My wife works for a ...
Not gonna happen. Here's an IRS query about Puerto Rico residents and their tax exposure. Regarding incorporation, it sounds like your company (and the tax man) will simply treat you as a remote employee, earning an income from a U.S. source ... Read More
Taxes information on PR by sontek
My wife and I have been looking into moving to Puerto Rico and finally found the perfect school for our two sons and are ready to move to the island. We have some questions related to taxes though and I was told to ask you! 1. My wife works for a ...
Yes to federal, no to PR. 2. I run my own company. It is a Delaware C-corp but we have subsidiaries in Florida and California since we have employees in both states (I'm the only one in Florida, so we can shut that down once I move). How do ... Read More
Amazon;s second headquarters in Puerto Rico by Mrkpytn
The most recent good news, if the source is correct, stated that Amazon accepted Puerto Rico's offer to set up its second headquarters in Puerto Rico. I was told this by my friend who's brother is in the justice department. I hope it is ...
Unlikely Rey. Were it a distribution hub it would need access to transport nodes. Since this is Amazon and shipping is expected to be fast (except, apparently TO Puerto Rico), it would need access to mainland trucking and rail. Can't do that ... Read More
Where do you recommend I start? by TriciaOhio
Hi everyone! I am new here and can see that this is the place to get started on the Forum. I am just beginning to explore the possibility of a permanent home in PR. I was born, raised, and currently living in North Central Ohio -- and at ...
It's been a buyer's market, and Maria will only depress prices further as people abandon homes and banks foreclose. There are consumer advocacy groups lobbying on behalf of homeowners who have lost their jobs, and I suspect that the banks ... Read More
P.R. A.M. - P.M. by londonpride
Wasn't sure where to post this since there are several different active threads about issues ante-maria & post-maria. A.M. and P.M. have taken on an additional meaning since 9/20. So I started this thread. The moderator from Expat can ...
It's really just the money -- no politics at all. Burying the lines is more costly than repairing them over the life of the lines. Yes, customers complain when power goes out, but you have little alternative, and the power company knows that. ... Read More
P.R. A.M. - P.M. by londonpride
Wasn't sure where to post this since there are several different active threads about issues ante-maria & post-maria. A.M. and P.M. have taken on an additional meaning since 9/20. So I started this thread. The moderator from Expat can ...
Absolutely. I understand PREPA's desire to get repairs underway as quickly as possible, but to do so in a non-transparent manner threatens to bring the process to a halt. While Gov. Rossello has much on his plate at this time, had PREPA chief ... Read More
P.R. A.M. - P.M. by londonpride
Wasn't sure where to post this since there are several different active threads about issues ante-maria & post-maria. A.M. and P.M. have taken on an additional meaning since 9/20. So I started this thread. The moderator from Expat can ...
I find it a rather curious deal myself! My post begins by wondering why contract with Whitefish (or any other private contractor for that matter) instead of executing the standing mutual aid agreements. I must confess that I also find the ... Read More
P.R. A.M. - P.M. by londonpride
Wasn't sure where to post this since there are several different active threads about issues ante-maria & post-maria. A.M. and P.M. have taken on an additional meaning since 9/20. So I started this thread. The moderator from Expat can ...
As I note above, I am curious why PREPA went with Whitefish rather than the mutual aid agreements already in place. Dgdlaw suggested that the decision was financial. I am willing to believe that, but I'd like to see the cost comparison. I ... Read More
P.R. A.M. - P.M. by londonpride
Wasn't sure where to post this since there are several different active threads about issues ante-maria & post-maria. A.M. and P.M. have taken on an additional meaning since 9/20. So I started this thread. The moderator from Expat can ...
Curious award of the contract. I've seen the conspiracy theories masquerading as news suggesting nefarious dealings here, but I doubt that. What is odd to me is that PREPA chose to go with a private business rather than the mutual aid ... Read More