Keith
@SawMan
American looking for information about Ecuador
Forum posts
577
Contacts
18
About me
American
Lives in Fort Worth, Texas
Speaks English
Registration: 19 March 2012
LAS OLAS close to Bahia by berenicehutton
Looking on reviews for this new development close to Bahia LAS OLAS?
http://lasolasecuador.com/instagram-posts-may-august-2019/ Some construction underway in August 2019, but still doing site grading and construction of retaining walls, which is amazing after ten years. No evidence from the pictures of any ... Read More
Uncle Buck = TV Star by Mark and Al
My wife and I watched the new episode of Caribbean Life last night starring Uncle Buck and his wife. VERY interesting to watch, Congratulations!
Just read this about the car accident. https://nypost.com/2019/04/09/bodies-resembling-ny-couple-recovered-from-car-crash-in-dominican-republic-report-says/ Read More
Uncle Buck = TV Star by Mark and Al
My wife and I watched the new episode of Caribbean Life last night starring Uncle Buck and his wife. VERY interesting to watch, Congratulations!
What's your take on this news item today? https://nypost.com/2019/04/09/missing-ny-tourist-couple-was-warned-about-being-mugged/ It's getting a bit of attention here. Obviously, not in Punta Cana. Read More
Oceanside Farms - Another Las Olas?
I was surprised to see this real fluff piece today on a new coastal development touted as a "luxury agrihood community" in Puerto Cayo offering "luxury farm ... 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 ...
Rankings can vary for certain, but the attached might give you a useful comparison. Locate one or more hospitals in your area and then examine Puerto Rico. Here's United States (presumably excluding ... Read More
To Pay Tax in Colombia or Not by PhilCo58
If we are good law abiding Expats, we will do our legal bit to help Colombia, but that doesn't mean we are going to empty our pockets for them. When you decide to live in Colombia, one of your obligations is to visit DIAN and register your ...
Saw reference to this app that helps track residency in an article regarding how New York state tax officials are increasingly conducting "residency" audits of their high income residents fleeing to Florida and other low-tax states. No ... Read More
Are you a U.S. citizen who have income earned in foreign countries? by Savvy Link
Are you a U.S. citizen or resident alien who work abroad or who have income earned in foreign countries? Keep reading... You're a US citizen or a green card holder and you live somewhere outside the USA (i.e. in a "foreign" ...
I'm not finding the news here. U.S. citizens have filing and reporting requirements regardless of their residency - U.S. citizens must report their worldwide income. The "trap" and sometimes surprising outcomes we hear horror stories ... Read More
LAS OLAS close to Bahia by berenicehutton
Looking on reviews for this new development close to Bahia LAS OLAS?
Thank you all for the updates and analysis. Yes, another set of victims. Lawsuits will outlast them. Sad. Read More
LAS OLAS close to Bahia by berenicehutton
Looking on reviews for this new development close to Bahia LAS OLAS?
This project has garnered a lot of discussion over the past five years yet it seems quite silent - even the website seems stale without updates or "exciting" news. Is it progressing? Anyone know? Anyone care? 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 ...
Somewhere on this forum there are some good threads discussing the PR concept of "forced heirship" or you can Google it. It means that with or without a Will heirs of the decedent need to be provided for, although dying without a PR Will ... Read More
Caribbean vs. Pacific coasts by margocatts
Hello all, first post here. Just dabbling with some pre-retirement thoughts of living outside US when the time comes. It seems that most of the coast towns I see referenced are on the Pacific side. I do see Bocas del Toro occasionally but ...
Definitely the Pacific side, IMO, if these are your two choices. Despite my own expectation years ago that the new highway to Colon from Panama City (think interstate quality) would open up the Caribbean due to proximity and beauty, it has not done ... Read More
Humidity by the sea by Kevin43
Hello, We are a couple who live in northern Vermont and are researching areas to retire to for part of the year (at least Nov/Dec through May )in Central/South America - something by the ocean where we don't have to deal with snow! However, ...
Hi Susan. I know from this and other forums you were a long-time resident and inn keeper in Salinas. Can you give us your current view of Salinas or Santa Elena province in general, including Chipipe and maybe even San Lorenzo? Has the ... Read More
Safety around Area Bancaria by dcracken1
Hello, I was planning a trip to Panama City and was going to stay at the Marriot in the financial district. Is that area safe to explore on foot during the day? How about at night? I am a white male in my late 30s, never been mugged in my life, and ...
I was a fairly regular traveler to Panama City in the past and would always defer to others, including Lapapuja, but IMO Panamanians generally are neither impressed with nor biased against North Americans. You get back what you give. I like that. ... Read More
PR to Close 283 Schools by SawMan
PR to close over 25% of its public schools, yet no layoffs expected! http://www.foxnews.com/world/2018/04/05/puerto-rico-to-close-283-schools-amid-sharp-enrollment-drop.html
For now, but once they start putting in the Charter schools, the teachers will need to interview with the new administrators and may or may not get the job as more schools close, the teachers will either be layoff, or they will quit as they may need ... Read More
PR to Close 283 Schools by SawMan
PR to close over 25% of its public schools, yet no layoffs expected! http://www.foxnews.com/world/2018/04/05/puerto-rico-to-close-283-schools-amid-sharp-enrollment-drop.html
Goes on everywhere too. https://nypost.com/2018/04/06/a-lunatic-decision-on-teacher-tenure/ Read More
PR to Close 283 Schools
PR to close over 25% of its public schools, yet no layoffs expected! http://www.foxnews.com/world/2018/04/05/puerto-rico-to-close-283-schools-amid-sharp-enrollment-drop.html Read More
Group from States coming in June to help victims of Hurricane Maria. by Journeyandbeyond
I am looking to assist a group of women coming in June to help victims of Maria. They want to paint, clean or whatever else a person or family need close to the Metro Area... They are only here for 5 days. Please contact me to let me know if ...
Here is a list of volunteer opportunities from VolunteerMatch (an organization matching volunteers with organizations needing help) in Puerto Rico: https://www.volunteermatch.org/search/?l=Puerto%20Rico 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 ...
If you go to Zillow, if you deselect "for sale" and "for rent" and other categories and select only "recently sold" you will get what is supposed to see only what has sold and the sales price. The right panel gives a ... Read More
Six Months Post Maria by mrtibbs
Would you all please share your location and how recovery has been post hurricane Maria in the area you live? I think it would be very helpful for those of us stateside looking to move with knowing the level of towns affected from a personal ...
I thought these comparison pictures (September 2017 and March 2018) were interesting: https://nypost.com/2018/03/22/puerto-rico-slow-road-to-recovery-after-hurricane-maria/slide-1/ Read More
Taxation in Colombia by m07801
Hello All, Im considering to retire in Medellin next year. I visited the city this past February and enjoyed the city. i was very impressed. Im 61 years old from the USA. I would be living on my pension from my job, ...
Based on someone's observation that it would seem very doubtful that any tax law change would have the objective of lowering taxes, it seems to me the concept of placing income into different "buckets" and then reducing the bucket ... Read More
Taxation in Colombia by m07801
Hello All, Im considering to retire in Medellin next year. I visited the city this past February and enjoyed the city. i was very impressed. Im 61 years old from the USA. I would be living on my pension from my job, ...
Intrigued by the search challenge and having no familiarity with this, I did find this reference to new tax treatment beginning in 2018 in which income still remains taxed but will be placed in "buckets" for tax treatment: Types of ... Read More
Overall safety concerns by Whaussler
As someone who is in the very early stages of researching the country and trying to map out a plan of attack, one of my biggest worries is the safety of my family if we move. I have read the reports from the state department on the safety of the ...
Comparisons are always sought but are never easy to do, but here's one list complied by Mexican anti-violence think-tank Seguridad, Justicia Y Paz (Security, Justice and Peace) and ranks each city according to homicide rate per 100,000 ... Read More
Immigrants from Venezuela by mugtech
Just read that the national oil company, PDVSA, did not make an interest payment of over $400,000,000 on 11/22/16,. They do have a 30 day window, and supposedly some debt restructuring will free up more cash for interest payments. Since 95% of ...
Years ago when hanging around Panama more I saw the well-dressed Venezuelan lawyers (?) opening bank accounts in Panama City. (Good planning, BTW) They were a bit "abrupt" and pushy (my impressions confirmed by my Panamanian friends). ... Read More
LAS OLAS close to Bahia by berenicehutton
Looking on reviews for this new development close to Bahia LAS OLAS?
How can these people continue taking deposits and ruining hard working North Americans' retirement dreams? This sounds more and more like a future episode of CNBC's "American Greed." Read More
LAS OLAS close to Bahia by berenicehutton
Looking on reviews for this new development close to Bahia LAS OLAS?
No homes completed and delivered to buyers yet! Unbelievable. Will the cheerleaders return to this site and try and re-inflate hopes for this turd? Read More
Taxes in puerto rico retirement income by Drew64
Is anyone a puerto rican resident retired from the us mainland? How is retirement income taxed if you have your roth, 401k, ira, social security income derived from accounts still on the mainland? I followed a few threads but didnt really see a ...
Agreed, but since this is a U.S. tax filing and U.S. source income not subject to PR taxes or filings, I'd might go with the professional from back home in the states to handle. There's nothing about PR residency that affects the filing or ... Read More
Taxes in puerto rico retirement income by Drew64
Is anyone a puerto rican resident retired from the us mainland? How is retirement income taxed if you have your roth, 401k, ira, social security income derived from accounts still on the mainland? I followed a few threads but didnt really see a ...
I'm betting you're 100% correct in filing in the U.S. because social security is U.S. source income. The fact that it appears you have other income from the U.S. would also require a U.S. return. Read More
Taxes in puerto rico retirement income by Drew64
Is anyone a puerto rican resident retired from the us mainland? How is retirement income taxed if you have your roth, 401k, ira, social security income derived from accounts still on the mainland? I followed a few threads but didnt really see a ...
There are two questions: Does a PR resident receiving social security have to file a U.S. income tax return and if a return is filed how is it taxed? The answer to each is "it depends." WHO MUST FILE In general, section 933 of the U.S. ... 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 ...
These days with the federal estate tax at over $10 million and MANY states having no estate tax at all or very high exemptions, this is only a concern for folks that frankly have long ago seen the need for estate tax avoidance. The problem here is ... 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 ...
Not that my agreement matters or carries any weight, but everyone seems to agree that this advice is undoubtedly correct. But, I am wondering as I have in the past why the advice stops there. Did they not recommend or propose establishing a PR ... Read More
Buying a condo, should a "foundation" own it? Tax question. by KBOS
Hi, I am buying a condo in PC and my Panamanian lawyer says I have to decide whether to purchase it in my name or to have him set up a foundation, which apparently is very common. My specific question is about tax implications in the US where I am a ...
I had multiple Panama corporations and a Panama foundation for no good reason. (I was planning on multiple investments at the time.) My goal was not tax evasion - privacy of ownership to protect against spurious lawsuits and ease of transfer with ... 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 ...
Great contribution from a qualified person. Can you expand on a couple of points: - The testamentary intent of most married couples of ordinary means would be that their property pass exclusively to their surviving spouse (e.g., the homestead). ... Read More
Will I pay PR tax on my NJ pension in addition to the federal payment? by theclavekid79
Hello all, I am new to the forum and am planning a full move to the southwest side of the island by 2020. Though I was born in NJ and lived here my entire life, I have family and many connections to that part of the island. I've traveled ...
It seems that way, more or less. I wish NomadLawyer would chime in - he's a former PR resident, now EU resident/lawyer. I was really interested in knowing what these caps are: As a general rule, only residents are in a position to claim the ... Read More
Will I pay PR tax on my NJ pension in addition to the federal payment? by theclavekid79
Hello all, I am new to the forum and am planning a full move to the southwest side of the island by 2020. Though I was born in NJ and lived here my entire life, I have family and many connections to that part of the island. I've traveled ...
Interested in the answer myself, I did some non-expert research and believe this advice is correct. You will be taxed on the U.S. sourced pension in the U.S. and in PR, subject to credit in PR for the U.S. tax paid. According to the accounting ... Read More
PC VA hospital by Jlopez9111
I’m planning about relocating to panama. Anyone know the status of the VA hospital. .?
EdwinH is 100% correct. - The only VA facility outside the U.S. or a U.S. territory (such as Guam, Puerto Rico, etc.) is in the Philippines. - The Foreign Medical Program (FMP) is a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care benefits ... Read More
Buying/Selling Gold and Silver in Colombia (Barranquilla and Medellin) by JRC410
OK, I know this might seem like a wierd post to many, but bear with me. I am looking to find out if there are places in Colombia, particularly in Barranquilla and Medellin, that someone could buy and sell gold and silver. Now, I am not talking ...
Non-bank private vaults: http://www.offshoreprivatevaults.com/list-of-offshore-private-vaults.html Read More
Buying/Selling Gold and Silver in Colombia (Barranquilla and Medellin) by JRC410
OK, I know this might seem like a wierd post to many, but bear with me. I am looking to find out if there are places in Colombia, particularly in Barranquilla and Medellin, that someone could buy and sell gold and silver. Now, I am not talking ...
I would echo ccmedia's advice - don't buy and intend to store a material quantity of physical precious metals in Colombia (and many other places). ETFs in gold include GLD, but also IAU (much lower management fee). Silver can be obtained ... Read More
looking for a great beach town with excellent surfing by MyrnaMinkoff
Hello Everyone, We are a couple moving from Redondo Beach, CA. Previously we lived in Bend, Oregon and Seattle, Washington. We are close to semi-retirement and looking for a great beach town with excellent surfing. My husband has been surfing all ...
I always thought this was an interesting overview of Ecuador beaches. Nevertheless, it is the author's opinion in many instances. Therefore, reasonable minds may differ! The first beach shown is in Playas and as you navigate the site by ... Read More
New Expat Visa Rules: Colombia & Ecuador Head in Opposite Directions by cccmedia
Just two months after Ecuador's more restrictive visa rules were published in English, an English-language article about [b]less restrictive visa rules for Colombia[/b] has been published online, at www.medellinliving.com .... Colombia will now ...
You really need to check Honolulu prices. You're way off. But, comparisons are difficult beyond cost of living. A nice, modern El Congrejo or even a Balboa Avenue condo is less than a third the cost of a comparable Honolulu condo. Read More
New Expat Visa Rules: Colombia & Ecuador Head in Opposite Directions by cccmedia
Just two months after Ecuador's more restrictive visa rules were published in English, an English-language article about [b]less restrictive visa rules for Colombia[/b] has been published online, at www.medellinliving.com .... Colombia will now ...
As I am sure you know, the Friendly Nation visa is not the Pensionado or investor visa types I was referring to. Nothing implied by me about the suitability of Panama or any other country for expats. This is a personal decision based on each ... Read More
New Expat Visa Rules: Colombia & Ecuador Head in Opposite Directions by cccmedia
Just two months after Ecuador's more restrictive visa rules were published in English, an English-language article about [b]less restrictive visa rules for Colombia[/b] has been published online, at www.medellinliving.com .... Colombia will now ...
An interesting divergence developing indeed! Meanwhile, nearby Panama still maintains the Pensionado visa (and similar investment visa programs) for life (or until they decide to legislate otherwise) with no renewals. Read More
Getting access to PayPal money in Colombia - in cash by Kiwiprofesor
Hey, Guys, get ready, this is complicated. I'm a kiwi from NZ, living in Colombia. I've recently started earning dollars abroad and getting paid into my Paypal account. I'm finding it impossible to access this money as cash, however, ...
Using a credit card to pay yourself through Paypal violates Paypal's terms of service. (Some view it as basically a form of money laundering.) The way around it is to pay a "friend." Let me know if you're interested and I'll ... Read More
Doing business in Ecuador? by dacosta
what business i can doing in ecuador? thanks.... helder
I realize this is a very old, inactive thread but it's the most relevant one I could find. Anyway, for what it's worth, I find these rankings interesting - this one being the latest "Ease of Doing Business" ranking done annually ... Read More
food stamps / SNAP / NAP by knight4444
I don't want to appear being a mooch but I'm on disability SSD, and I get SNAP in the mainland usa, moving to puerto rico, is it possible for me to receive food assistance NAP in PR? I ask because I receive less than 850.00 dollars a month ...
To qualify for the PR Nutrition Assistance program (SNAP not available) your household income PER YEAR must not exceed $2,851 (household of 1) or $3,845 (household of 2)? Whoa. Read More
Doing Business in Puerto Rico by Severinguiton
Hi everyone, I'm currently writing an article about the main paradise islands where to start a tech business. I was thinking of Puerto Rico, as it ranks high at the Global Entrepreneurship and Development Index : http://thegedi.org/tool/ But ...
In post #85 of this thread I posted information on the Rule of Law ranking of countries: https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=664426&p=3 Related to the topic of this thread for those that find these rankings interesting is the ... 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 ...
Agreed. According to the World Justice Project: Effective rule of law reduces corruption, combats poverty and disease, and protects people from injustices large and small. It is the foundation for communities of peace, opportunity, and equity ... Read More
LAS OLAS close to Bahia by berenicehutton
Looking on reviews for this new development close to Bahia LAS OLAS?
Hey mugtech. Las Olas ceased monthly updates last year and has only posted two so far this year, the latest being around April would be my guess. Here's an excerpt on the "progress": The first three homes at Las Olas are nearing ... Read More
Dorado, Condado, Palmas or Isla Verde by keets3560
Hello everyone, my wife and I will be moving to Puerto Rico in 3 weeks. We will stay in hotel for a week or 2 till we find a rental. We have been to Puerto Rico many times as my wife has been working there a couple weeks a year for 10 years now. ...
I defer to others with far greater knowledge, but Condado and east to Ocean Park to Carolina/Isla Verde are exactly where I'd want to live, especially if I had a job in San Juan and was willing and able to pay the rents commanded in these areas. Read More
Doing Business in Puerto Rico by Severinguiton
Hi everyone, I'm currently writing an article about the main paradise islands where to start a tech business. I was thinking of Puerto Rico, as it ranks high at the Global Entrepreneurship and Development Index : http://thegedi.org/tool/ But ...
"Tech companies" need highly skilled, English speaking app developers and software engineers. PR lacks this pool of talent. Start-ups also need to be close to venture capital firms and the markets. PR is in another world relative to ... Read More
Worried about the tax system by atreyes5
Hi to everyone! My husband and I run a successful advertising agency, serving to local and international clients based in Puerto Rico. Due to the critical political climate in the US (PR is a dollar based colony of the US), it's mounting debt ...
The KPMG site presented a fairly thorough overview. Thanks for the post. It made me wonder - because a "resident's" worldwide income is taxed and that income includes not only wages and salary, but dividends, interest income and ... Read More
volunteering
This organization seeks volunteers to help Seniors at three locations in Puerto Rico: http://www.nationalchurchresidences.org/ Read More
Real estate market in Colombia by unleashedsoul99
Hello I am planning to move to Colombia and maybe later buy a flat/house/land there. I know that the Colombian economy is doing good and the prices of real estate have been going up a lot in the last 5 or 10 years or something and that Colombia ...
Interesting point. Made me look it up! The Colombia Peso (COP) has lost about 43% of its value relative to the USD over the past five years. Stated differently, 1 USD bought 1,791 COP five years ago. Now, 1 USD buys 3,050 COP. (Got as high as ... Read More
News about the economy by ReyP
I will be posting news that affect the economy of Puerto Rico. You are welcome to comment but keep it civil.
This article presents the a view on the Jones Act and the effect it would have on Puerto Rico investment, etc. and why (according to the author) repeal would do more harm than good. Presented with no opinion other than long-term problems never have ... Read More
Quality Hospitals / Specialists that Accept American Insurance by ThinkingItOver
Good Day I require neck and back surgery which will require that the doctor replace/stabilise the damaged disks and bone. I am aware that I can get these surgeries done in the states, but would like to look at options outside of the U.S. ...
There is a glimmer of hope underlying your question. ;) Namely, you might redirect your thinking to the growing practice of persons traveling elsewhere for expensive surgeries. Sometimes called "medical tourism" I think it's more ... Read More
Something to think about- When buying property by ReyP
The following is my opinion. The economy is PR has driven many people to loose their homes or move to the states, this means that there are good properties for less than in 2006 at the hight of the economy. While you can find a good deal, neither ...
Nine months ago there were 5700 properties listed for sale in PR on Zillow. There are now over 6200 listings. Sales in the entire country are running around 40 to 50 homes a month over the past few months. So, far, only 20 sales in June! (Again, ... Read More
Is there a Problem with Pollution in PR by holisticdoc
I have traveled throughout South and Central America. Trash, water and air pollution problems varied from country to country. Some towns, such as Quito, Ecuador and San Jose, Costa Rica were worse than some countries. What are some of the ...
Thanks for the unvarnished truth. Changing the attitude of people takes education, increased awareness and many many years. Related to the disregard of the environment is how wildlife is treated. Many countries do not have or do not enforce laws ... Read More
PR: economic outlook over the next ten years by seoulguy
Rey P has done yeoman service to all on the day-to-day, up-and-down of PR economics. What is the opinion of those who have longtime experience over the last ten years about what the next ten years will bring -- more clueless politicians, extended ...
Victims aren't "mean ol' millionaires" but ordinary Puerto Ricans. Excerpt: The battle to recoup pennies on the dollar of Puerto Rican bonds has been epitomized by Wall Street's most prominent hedge-fund managers. But siding ... Read More
PR: economic outlook over the next ten years by seoulguy
Rey P has done yeoman service to all on the day-to-day, up-and-down of PR economics. What is the opinion of those who have longtime experience over the last ten years about what the next ten years will bring -- more clueless politicians, extended ...
I agree and can tell you first-hand that access to a fair judiciary for, say, fraud and contract claims, that we enjoy and take for granted at times does not exist in many places, especially for expats (e.g., Panama). Read More
PR: economic outlook over the next ten years by seoulguy
Rey P has done yeoman service to all on the day-to-day, up-and-down of PR economics. What is the opinion of those who have longtime experience over the last ten years about what the next ten years will bring -- more clueless politicians, extended ...
All true. The bottom could come sooner, but the decline will be faster. Frankly, that might be better than a slower decline over a much longer period of time. If the bottom in values is within five years, then I see average annual declines on the ... Read More
PR: economic outlook over the next ten years by seoulguy
Rey P has done yeoman service to all on the day-to-day, up-and-down of PR economics. What is the opinion of those who have longtime experience over the last ten years about what the next ten years will bring -- more clueless politicians, extended ...
My two cents: - Comparisons between PR and other countries even a few years ago need to be re-evaluated IMO to take into account current data. - PR is secure from invasion because it is part of the U.S. Try and mess with PR and the wrath of the ... Read More
why so many half built homes? by krazyklyde
hello everyone, just returned from my first trip to belize. spent a week in the hopkins area, but had a rental car and drove over the the middle of belize. one thing i kept seeing, from altun ha to hopkins, was the number of half built and obviously ...
Belize (like Spain, France, Mexico and Puerto Rico) has a probate and inheritance law that includes a form of "forced heirship." This doctrine essentially prevents the decedent from disinheriting their descendants and sometimes other ... Read More
News about the economy by ReyP
I will be posting news that affect the economy of Puerto Rico. You are welcome to comment but keep it civil.
You're way off. Very few people have any interest in seeing the U.S. bail out PR and few people see a compelling reason to admit PR as a state. It's not political - it's lack of interest in fixing someone else's financial problem, ... Read More
News about the economy by ReyP
I will be posting news that affect the economy of Puerto Rico. You are welcome to comment but keep it civil.
Typically in a bankruptcy the debtor seeks and receives authorization from the bankruptcy court to continue payment of administrative expenses necessary to operate essential functions of the government in this case. I would have trouble ... Read More
Exploring a Move by SteuernAnwalt
I am a tax attorney/accountant in the US. My wife is from South America and I am of Latin background. She of course speaks native Spanish, I speak it quite fluently, near native. We are considering a move to PR if we qualify for Law 20 circa ...
People seek out facts that support their own views and don't like to hear facts that don't support their own views. Some people claim the beaches are beautiful and the very next post is how trash, including glass bottles, is strewn ... Read More
Power outage by Gary
Since 3:30 PM or so. Now, that's nothing new you'd say. Well, it depends. "Normally" this happens when there's rain and/or wind but today nothing of that, the power went just out of the blue. Nice weather, some clouds, no ...
What's the latest? Still no power? Read More
Ask the expert whether he prefers Ecuador or Colombia by Nards Barley
Ok, CCmedia, I have been reading some of your stuff on the Colombian forum today while sick with the flu and thought the peeps needed a thread to ask questions and to compare and contrast these two countries.
I wish I could agree because I've wanted to and followed your same logic, but PR's worse days are ahead of it. The infrastructure is crumbling and $70 billion of borrowed funds vanished and cannot be repaid. (Oh yeah, some of that debt is ... Read More
News about the economy by ReyP
I will be posting news that affect the economy of Puerto Rico. You are welcome to comment but keep it civil.
They expect to take less than 100%; but not too much of one. PR has already offered 77% to the GO bondholders. Interestingly, the holders of senior sales-tax debt get first priority on sales tax revenue collected. So, as a secured creditor they ... Read More
Strike on May 1st?? by Dawndoro
Just wondering what everyone has heard regarding a possible strike that could start on May 1st and possibly effect everything from utilities to travel ...??
Does this conjure up in anyone's mind the image of Army helicopters evacuating U.S. personnel and South Vietnamese officials from the roof of the U.S. Embassy in Saigon? Figuratively, if not literally, getting the heck out of town before the ... Read More
Strike on May 1st?? by Dawndoro
Just wondering what everyone has heard regarding a possible strike that could start on May 1st and possibly effect everything from utilities to travel ...??
Seems to me it will all be out of the governor's hands pretty soon. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-05-01/puerto-rico-bondholders-reject-island-s-restructuring-offer Read More
News about the economy by ReyP
I will be posting news that affect the economy of Puerto Rico. You are welcome to comment but keep it civil.
I'm personally familiar with Illinois having grown up there and returning regularly - I think you're over-estimating the difference in attitude and efficiency. Not to get too far afield, Illinois state and local governments (namely, Cook ... Read More
News about the economy by ReyP
I will be posting news that affect the economy of Puerto Rico. You are welcome to comment but keep it civil.
For those who like data, this is from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor and illustrates that PR faces repaying debt with a shrinking economic and taxpayer base: Jan. 2007 ... Read More
Strike on May 1st?? by Dawndoro
Just wondering what everyone has heard regarding a possible strike that could start on May 1st and possibly effect everything from utilities to travel ...??
There are a number of contradicting forces at play, aren't there? As the PR economy worsens and infrastructure and government services deteriorate, the more and more taxpaying workers and businesses leave or close. As workers leave and ... Read More
Strike on May 1st?? by Dawndoro
Just wondering what everyone has heard regarding a possible strike that could start on May 1st and possibly effect everything from utilities to travel ...??
This is true, but almost seems part of the accepted process. When the indigenous people are upset at a new hydro dam or something else, they block the Pan-American Highway and when construction workers have a beef they flood downtown Panama City. ... Read More
Mobile card reader by Spencerazac
I live in Puerto Rico, and make my own jewelry and sell it in various locations, I'm looking to expand my business to allow for credit cards instead of cash only, does anybody know how I can get A mobile card reader here in Puerto Rico. In the ...
Card readers are card readers - the pumps don't have them so you go into the store, which in 80% of the cases involves an additional purchase. Nothing more. Read More
Exploring a Move by SteuernAnwalt
I am a tax attorney/accountant in the US. My wife is from South America and I am of Latin background. She of course speaks native Spanish, I speak it quite fluently, near native. We are considering a move to PR if we qualify for Law 20 circa ...
It's amazing how a program designed to encourage business immigration could be made so stupid complicated by politicians. Read More
News about the economy by ReyP
I will be posting news that affect the economy of Puerto Rico. You are welcome to comment but keep it civil.
The government does not have the political will to make the severe spending cuts and tax increases necessary to fix its problems or the time and ability to do so with so many of the legacy issues you've identified - inefficient national and ... Read More
News about the economy by ReyP
I will be posting news that affect the economy of Puerto Rico. You are welcome to comment but keep it civil.
It seems to me the most immediate and significant event on the horizon occurs May 1, 2017 when the deadline to restructure $70 billion in debt expires. When U.S. Congress last year passed PROMESA, it froze creditor lawsuits so the oversight board ... Read More
Will Carfax reports work consistently here? by Karenqc
I really want to avoid dealers for a couple of reasons. Mark ups, taxes and hassle for starters. But I need a reliable way to check on the cars since I've been burned before. Anyone have any direct experience? Also, if you know of any other FB ...
Seems possible to reset modern digital odometers more easily than I would have thought based on my own searching. Read More
Warning-real estate in Panama is not what it seems by WarningToAll
We purchased a condo, pre construction, from what we were told to be a reputable and a premium developer [Moderated] of Panama City, Republic of Panama in October of 2006. The project was named Oceanaire, and was supposedly the best amongst the ...
So, taking what we're being told at face value, the developers may have hired (or intend to hire) a well regarded architectural firm to design the project and oversee construction. So what? I can name a number of beautiful developments and ... Read More
Warning-real estate in Panama is not what it seems by WarningToAll
We purchased a condo, pre construction, from what we were told to be a reputable and a premium developer [Moderated] of Panama City, Republic of Panama in October of 2006. The project was named Oceanaire, and was supposedly the best amongst the ...
There is no currency risk if you're an American or otherwise hold your investment assets in USD as Panama's official currency (Balboa) is pegged to the USD but as everyone knows the USD is for all practical purposes the currency of Panama. ... Read More
mortgages by frogrock
Has anyone acquired a mortgage here in Puerto Rico lately? Which bank and what is your experience?
Re-pulling electrical wire through the conduit would be easier than in most stick-built homes and with wireless routers being the norm, it seems less and less is needed cabling wise. But, even then the video showed the inner-duct in which the ... Read More
Puerto Armuelles Info by Jeannette from Canada
Hello! my husband and I are looking at purchasing a vacation beachfront house that in the near future we intend to live in for longer periods of time and possibly permanently. One of the areas we are coming to visit in late April is Puerto ...
This thread from post #33 includes a discussion on Puerto Armuelles you should read. https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=264381 Read More
Ask the expert whether he prefers Ecuador or Colombia by Nards Barley
Ok, CCmedia, I have been reading some of your stuff on the Colombian forum today while sick with the flu and thought the peeps needed a thread to ask questions and to compare and contrast these two countries.
That's my speculation - stab bags and see if white stuff comes out with the blade. I saw it on TV! When things go sideways, that’s a great time to use your Spanish, if you’ve learned it. If you haven’t, paranoia is a ... Read More
Ask the expert whether he prefers Ecuador or Colombia by Nards Barley
Ok, CCmedia, I have been reading some of your stuff on the Colombian forum today while sick with the flu and thought the peeps needed a thread to ask questions and to compare and contrast these two countries.
A friend of mine - longtime expat in El Cangrejo district in Panama City - has been traveling and taking extended stays in Medellin, Colombia - maybe four over the past couple of years - and was very impressed with the climate, the people and the ... Read More
Legal Will by PattiAnn
PR Follows Euro Law, that automatically divides estate to children. I'm told I need a will to ensure surviving spouse has a majority share. I have a small condo here... not a complicated deal. A Lawyer quoted me $2,000. To draw up Will! That ...
Best idea yet! More money, more problems! Read More
Legal Will by PattiAnn
PR Follows Euro Law, that automatically divides estate to children. I'm told I need a will to ensure surviving spouse has a majority share. I have a small condo here... not a complicated deal. A Lawyer quoted me $2,000. To draw up Will! That ...
If no children, grandchildren or other descendants, then, as you note, you go up to "ascendants" - first to the parents of the deceased and then to the deceased's brothers and sisters and their children (the deceased's nieces and ... Read More
Starting to Reconsider Ecuador- Need Advice Bad! by virtualgrace
My mother and I are considering selling our homes in America and moving to Ecuador. All our initial research seemed to suggest that we could purchase a good home on, or around, the beach for around $50-$75,000. Now we are seeing houses far central ...
Good to hear from you! Seems you got "too busy to write" after moving to Ecuador. Just like you hoped it would be! :) Read More
Legal Will by PattiAnn
PR Follows Euro Law, that automatically divides estate to children. I'm told I need a will to ensure surviving spouse has a majority share. I have a small condo here... not a complicated deal. A Lawyer quoted me $2,000. To draw up Will! That ...
Researched more and found plenty of verification on some points: - A Will drafted, either outside or in Puerto Rico, must be declared valid and must go through a court process to be validated in Puerto Rico. One article stated: People usually ... Read More
Legal Will by PattiAnn
PR Follows Euro Law, that automatically divides estate to children. I'm told I need a will to ensure surviving spouse has a majority share. I have a small condo here... not a complicated deal. A Lawyer quoted me $2,000. To draw up Will! That ...
The larger point here is for people with Wills in the mainland who move to PR thinking that their Wills providing that each spouse leaves all their property to the surviving spouse are still effective might need to re-think that because the Wills ... Read More
Legal Will by PattiAnn
PR Follows Euro Law, that automatically divides estate to children. I'm told I need a will to ensure surviving spouse has a majority share. I have a small condo here... not a complicated deal. A Lawyer quoted me $2,000. To draw up Will! That ...
I found this subject very interesting and believe the LegalZoom type forms and easy-to-draft Wills in the mainland just won't work in PR. So, costs will be higher I am sure. But, definitely check around. There is some helpful news for you. ... Read More
Accessibility by Billstefansic
Hi everyone. I'm curious to find out how accessible the larger cities on Panama are. I've been in a wheelchair since 2015...my cord was severed in an accident so accessibility is very important and I've been reading about some ...
I cannot contribute anything on medical care in Panama City other than the fact that there is a Johns Hopkins affiliated hospital in the Punta Pacifica district of Panama City. I have to believe that Johns Hopkins would not lend its name and ... Read More
Pensionado Visa - worth it? by bwadetx
My husband and I will be moving to Panama this fall. Is spending the $3200 for our Pensionado Visas worth it? Do you really save that much money with discounts offered? I'd love to hear from those who have the visa and from those who chose not ...
Buying property is easy. Only you spending time living in Panama many months will tell you what is most important and what you need to know: Is Panama suitable for you? Stated differently, are you a fit for Panama? Read More
Pensionado Visa - worth it? by bwadetx
My husband and I will be moving to Panama this fall. Is spending the $3200 for our Pensionado Visas worth it? Do you really save that much money with discounts offered? I'd love to hear from those who have the visa and from those who chose not ...
It's not worth $50, unless you like smoke being blown up your $%#& by a bunch of people trying to sell and mislead you. Read More
Buying in Panama by Ginger5
New to the site :) Considering buying beach front properties. Any words of wisdom ?? Had anyone heard of Recap investments ? Trying to do my due diligence and have been unable to find any dirt on them -- is that possible ??
My advice: Don't do it. As far as due diligence, Panama is the land of shell corporations and hidden ownership and control. Go to this link and click on any of the names below and you'll see them associated with hundreds of corporations ... Read More
Warning-real estate in Panama is not what it seems by WarningToAll
We purchased a condo, pre construction, from what we were told to be a reputable and a premium developer [Moderated] of Panama City, Republic of Panama in October of 2006. The project was named Oceanaire, and was supposedly the best amongst the ...
This is a link to Panama Equity website listing lots and land for sale (not all, just the ones this firm cares to ... Read More
Warning-real estate in Panama is not what it seems by WarningToAll
We purchased a condo, pre construction, from what we were told to be a reputable and a premium developer [Moderated] of Panama City, Republic of Panama in October of 2006. The project was named Oceanaire, and was supposedly the best amongst the ...
There is a Panama entity called "Panama Portfolio.com S.A." The owners / subscribers are listed as: **** The website does not show any completed projects or actual construction in progress. Looks more like real estate investors, not ... Read More
Warning-real estate in Panama is not what it seems by WarningToAll
We purchased a condo, pre construction, from what we were told to be a reputable and a premium developer [Moderated] of Panama City, Republic of Panama in October of 2006. The project was named Oceanaire, and was supposedly the best amongst the ...
There's an endless stream of newbies for developers to prey upon. Don't buy pre-construction, unless the funds are insignificant to you financially and you like playing "Panama Hold 'em." Your second clue is that the ... Read More
Warning-real estate in Panama is not what it seems by WarningToAll
We purchased a condo, pre construction, from what we were told to be a reputable and a premium developer [Moderated] of Panama City, Republic of Panama in October of 2006. The project was named Oceanaire, and was supposedly the best amongst the ...
Be careful with Coco Beach....has the signs of hyping the dream more than reality. Panama has quite a few "developments" where lots are sold with beautiful artist renderings of completed houses and amenities that never come to fruition. ... Read More
Article - Expat in Salinas by SawMan
Maybe it's a puff piece, but here's a recent article that may be of interest on the author's experience living in Salinas: http://www.marketwatch.com/story/if-youre-thinking-of-retiring-in-ecuador-2016-12-29 Reprint of November ...
The article had an IL tone to it - idyllic living for 25% of the cost - but I didn't associate it with IL. I would not post their crap, or at least now knowingly. :| Read More