by Thanks to the surge and diverse nature of businesses in Panama, coupled with its appealing economic steadiness, a significant number of entrepreneurs have turned their attention to the real estate sector in recent years. The wide range of available properties and the lucrative potential of their transactions present some of the most enticing reasons for an entrepreneur in United States to dive into real estate.
However, the most advisable thing to do is to be informed about the latest news in Panama properties, if you are interested in becoming a real estate agent and consolidating your success along the way.
What is a real estate agent?
A real estate agent is a professional specializing in the real estate sector who is in charge of intermediating in the purchase, sale, and rental of properties. Its main function is to connect buyers and sellers, providing personalized advice and managing all the legal and bureaucratic procedures involved in a real estate transaction.
Essential Criteria for United States Citizens to Become a Real Estate Agent in Panama
As with any profession in the financial and real estate industries, working as a real estate agent in Panama entails submitting various documents and adhering to the legal procedures. The necessary requirements include:
- Complete required courses and successfully pass a written exam conducted by the Real Estate Technical Board.
- Secure a bond worth ten thousand (USD 10,000) US dollars to address potential negligence claims and governmental penalties.
- Submit a power of attorney and legal request via a lawyer, duly notarized, along with a legal form.
- Provide proof of Panamanian citizenship, or if foreign, evidence of at least 5 years of residency.
- Make an annual payment of twenty-five (USD 25) U.S. dollars for Stamp Taxes.
- Submit documentation certifying no criminal record.
Becoming a real estate agent in Panama: uncover some of its advantages
Working as a real estate agent within the expansive real estate market in Panama requires staying dynamic and continuously informed about various property transactions and buyer interactions. Additionally, there are several advantages you can consider while preparing to be a real estate agent in Panamanian territory. These benefits include:
- Strategic location: Nestled in Central America, Panama boasts a prime spot to attract global investors and buyers. As a real estate agent, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with an international clientele and assist in facilitating cross-border deals.
- Tax reduction: This advantage is highly favored due to the financial ease it offers agents. For instance, purchasing a property with a cadastral value under $120,000 means you won’t have to pay taxes on it, as stipulated by Law 66 of 2017. Furthermore, properties valued up to $120,000 are exempt from real estate taxes, while those with values between $120,001 and $700,000 incur a tax rate of 0.5% on the cadastral value. If the value exceeds $700,000, the applicable tax rate is 0.7% of the cadastral value.
- Growing real estate market: The real estate sector has seen significant growth in recent years, providing a rapid path for advancement for agents in this vibrant field.
- Chance for residency permit as an investor: Real estate investors can leverage the real estate investment visa program, allowing them to apply for and permanent residency by making property investments that meet the country’s legal criteria.
Legal Solutions Panama: Specialists in Guiding Your Company’s Incorporation as a Real Estate Agent
To start in the real estate market outstandingly, it is important that you have a company established for that purpose. Therefore, if you have a project in its foundations, you want to take off in the real estate market. The smartest thing to do is to opt for the help of experts who will help you in the establishment of your business. Likewise, Legal Solutions Panama is a firm specialized in opening companies in Panama.
Thanks to its extensive experience, the Legal Solutions team can advise you on the incorporation of your company. Their experience will help you to carry out all the procedures correctly, without unforeseen events, and with the certainty of a successful opening.
For more information about their services, you can explore their site and take advantage of a complimentary thirty-minute consultation with one of their experts.
