My job as a real estate broker puts me in contact with incredibly interesting people.
Individuals who are looking to live in another country tend to have fascinating backstories. Panama, in particular, attracts people from all walks of life– from retirees lured by affordable beachfront properties to entrepreneurs and investors impressed by Panama’s thriving economy and real estate market.
Whatever brings people to Panama, I love that I get to meet so many interesting characters. I’ve also learned not to judge a book by its cover– you wouldn’t believe the unlikely expats, entrepreneurs, and elite investors I’ve met over the last fifteen years.
Opera Singers Come in All Shapes and Sizes
“I’m an opera singer,” replied a woman recently when I asked about her interests and profession. “I’ve been given incredible opportunities,” she began as we sat down to lunch after a long morning of looking at properties. “Europe, North America, Asia. I can’t imagine what I did to deserve this life,” she laughed.
As soon as we parted ways, I looked her up online and listened to one of her more famous recordings. With her petite frame, her appearance differed from my stereotypical idea of an opera singer– but there was no denying her talent as she belted out Mozart’sVorrei Spiegarvi.
I smiled when I thought about our earlier conversation, as we walked around a residential unit in Casa Bonita. I recalled her telling me her husband was going to love the view out of one of the bedroom windows. I felt as though I had been given a backstage pass to an opera queen!
Athletes Taking Care of Mom
Last week, I showed properties to a couple of young brothers who were both professional athletes in Europe. They wanted to purchase a home for their mother and were incredibly detailed about what would be the best option.
Money didn’t seem to be a major consideration, but having a grocery within walking distance was. “She has a domestic helper,” said the younger brother, “but she wants to be able to purchase her own groceries and walk her dog in a nice area. We looked at a few properties in Costa del Este, a well-planned residential community Panama City where everything is within walking distance. The two brothers traveled often for work and wanted to be able to visit easily. They loved that the Tocumen International Airport offers direct and convenient flights from around the world– and is just a short drive from the Costa del Este community.
A Marine Researcher
I once met a Harvard researcher working at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. His team was in Panama studying whale migration patterns and he was looking to invest in property for himself and his family when they come to visit. I remember he had just published an article in a scientific journal that was way over my head. I kept our discussions to square meters and amenities!
1,400 Researchers Every Year
The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama is the only Smithsonian based outside of the U.S. Annually, some 1,400 researchers and students come to Panama to do work and study everything from tiny insects to photosynthetic algae. There are more species of birds and plants in Panama than there are in all of Canada and the United States combined.
The scientists associated with these programs are incredibly interesting! And, they all need places to stay– whether they decide to rent or buy.
Convincing You To Want Turkey
“We just moved $40,000 worth of flavored water in Philadelphia,” the gentleman I was meeting explained. “Now, we’re looking at the data for low-selling cold cuts. Someone bought way too much deli turkey for the Wawa stores in Philadelphia. By next week, everyone will be eating turkey sandwiches!”
Later, I learned my new client was in charge of grocery store data for general sales and inventory. When there is too much turkey or water at an individual store, promotions are launched to increase sales and move inventory. Apparently, having this intelligence has increased profits dramatically. I had no idea, but it reminded me that people really do have interesting and unusual careers.
International Ties Playing Locally
International business ties will almost always produce a variety of new clients. Panama and China established diplomatic ties in 2017, and both countries have opened embassies in the other’s territory. More than 28 new trade agreements have been signed between Panama and China covering everything from tourism and agriculture to aviation. There is even a current impact study looking at the feasibility of China building a modern railway from Panama City to Costa Rica.
I enjoyed watching a group of Chinese visitors to Panama line up for a photo at the Playa Bonita Westin complete with Panama Hats and a local “devil”. The devil was just there to aid the struggle between good and evil.
More Living Space in Panama
As Panama continues to strengthen international business ties, more executives are relocating to Panama with their families. Whether they’re hailing from Hong Kong or a major U.S. city, they’re often thrilled with the living space.
In describing the Matisse residential tower in Costa del Este, one family did not blink when I said the building had 52 stories, but they were stunned each unit was around 4,000 square feet. They tell me living space in Beijing is tiny and expensive. I hear similar things from Americans coming from places like NYC and Washington, DC– or Canadians in Toronto or Montreal.
People from expensive cities are accustomed to paying top dollar for minimal space. Imagine the look on their faces when they realize the square footage they can get in Panama– usually for less than what they’re paying back home.
People coming to Panama tend to be so interesting. I love that I get to meet so many different characters and learn a little about their worlds. It’s super fun and exciting to help them navigate their options in Panama and find the place that’s right for them.
Panama has become an international hub for business in Central and South America. More multinational companies arrive to Panama every year, bringing executives and employees who need housing. Others are attracted to Panama for its real estate market, cost of living and doing business, and high-quality way of life.
Panama will continue to grow and attract all kinds of people. I can’t wait!
