Top Six Lifestyle Buys in Panama Right Now
Date: 12/30/2005
Dear International Living Reader,
Lee Harrison has been on a mission.
Lee, IL's expert on all things Latin American, is searching for the perfect second home...and his quest has led him to Panama.
You've no doubt read some of Lee's reports in these Postcards, as he traveled throughout Panama, from the Pacific Coast to mountainous Boquete. He found something to suit you, whether you’re a golfer, a sailor, a nature lover, or simply enjoy lazing on the beach. To bring you up to speed on the best of what he's discovered, here's the story so far:
For golfers
A new golf development on the Pacific Coast of Panama, this par-72 championship golf course is under construction and scheduled for play for spring 2006. Villas start at $195,000; condo packages (including a two-bedroom unit with air conditioning, appliances, and membership of the golf club) start at $247,000. Plus, the first 50 buyers get a free golf cart.
This is Panama City's only golf development, and every property for sale here has a golf course view. Condos start at $198,000 (including a lifetime family golf membership).
For beach lovers
With an incredible mile-long stretch of fine, white-sand beach, this fashionable beachfront resort is on an area along Panama’s Pacific Coast where it rains significantly less than it does in the rest of the country. The average price of an apartment is $99,800, and includes your appliances.
Playa Serena Beachfront Apartments
Just 50 minutes from Panama City, this is a peaceful, green property with large trees and a tranquil stretch of tree-lined, white-sand beach. Ocean view apartments start at $132,000.
For sailors
This property is huge--more than 1,500 acres. The heliport is under construction, and a dry dock is available. From the boat ramp you can launch a craft of up to 30 feet. Coiba Island and Hannibal Bank are nearby, and claim to have the Pacific's best sport fishing. Lots start at $49,900; beachfront starts at $45 per square meter.
For non-beachgoers
This development is in Boquete, a lush, green valley that’s situated at an altitude of around 3,200 feet. The area is noted for its dramatic hills, rushing mountain streams, lush green forests, and cooler weather. The houses here attracted me as much as the environment, and there are several models to choose from in contemporary, tasteful designs. Lots start at $43,000; condos start at $122,000.
All good insights on this eve of the new year. If you like the idea of a second home in the sun…but have yet to get started on a plan to make it happen…make it your new year’s resolution in 2006. Lee’s research above is an excellent place to start.
Happy New Year,
Lief Simon
Real Estate Editor, International Living
P.S. Lee's not finished his search for the perfect home yet. Next on his agenda: Honduras’ mountains and mainland coast, and then on to coastal Chile. He'll be in touch soon.
P.P.S. You still have time (until midnight tonight) to get the 25% to 35% Holiday discounts off Panama Insider and Panama: The Owner’s Manual. Take a look: http://www.ilbookstore.com.
Important Note: In the interest of full disclosure, we want you to know that International Living receives commissions from sales at the developments Lee Harrison reviews above.
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