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Panama is listed by Modern Maturity magazine as the number one place in the Americas to retire.  That is because of the safety of the culture, the low cost of living, the good infrastructure, and a host of other factors.  Panama is easy to reach from nearly any location.  With all of these advantages, it is no wonder so many people are considering retiring in Panama.

Panama uses the US Dollar as its currency and has a strong, American-style infrastructure because of Panama’s long relationship with the United States.  The country has excellent roads, water, sewer and electrical systems, and telecommunications networks.  Shopping centres are available in and around all cities and most towns, and the country has a fine selection of banks and other financial service companies.

More and more retirement communities are being built.  These may be groups of small houses or a gated apartment or independent-living community that sells individual units.  Purchasers may wish to locate an agent or broker with experience not only in Panama properties, but also in dealing with retirement issues.  Knowledge of the amenities in current and future properties can help you decide which ones will suit you best in your retirement years.

Another factor that should be considered is your real estate agent’s ability to manage other aspects of your transaction.  Is he or she familiar with currency exchange?  Can your visits to view property for sale in Panama be arranged efficiently?  Can the agent handle necessary paperwork on your behalf, freeing you from multiple trips or phone calls?  Retiree visas are available to anyone with a proven monthly income of $500 or more, a health certificate, and a police report.  Your real estate agent should be able to advise or assist you with the arrangements necessary for obtaining these items after purchasing your property in Panama.

Lastly, remember that Panama encourages retirees to relocate to their country with a wide variety of incentives.  Discounts on entertainment, dining out, and hotels are available to people with a retiree visa.  The retiree visa also provides discounts on transportation, prescription medications, and dental and eye exams.  Most important for ex-pats, it also provides discounts on closing costs for home loans. 

Finding a real estate agent to guide you in purchasing retirement property in Panama is a great first step.  Let the agent show you properties that will make you happy for years to come and provide the low-cost, secure retirement you have been searching for.