ny metropolis is a amazing journey vacation spot for families with youngsters. there are many points of interest and sports for kids. but, like maximum families travelling with youngsters, a lodge with a pool is a primary precedence. As every discern is aware of, a pleasing swimming pool is not most effective extraordinary fun for the kids however it additionally serves an crucial gain for parents as properly… like stealing some moments of peace. Of course, with regards to ny city, finding ny inns with swimming pools is a bit extra challenging, due to the fact there are relatively few motels with swimming pools. this could seem bizarre given the big variety of accommodations in the large Apple, but the big apple actual estate is so high-priced few do and in a few instances they may be actually small lap pools. though, there are some precise selections. under, we’ve listed a few top circle of relatives friendly the big apple city lodges with swimming pools which might be worth thinking about.the big apple resorts with swimming pools: Sheraton new york motel – high-quality family friendly big apple resort- 790 7th Ave & 51st St, big apple, N.Y. This ny lodge is the satisfactory choice for households by using far based on standard value, location and its pool. The Sheraton ny resort offers a four lane, 50 foot pool that’s the largest genuine lodge owned pool in the big apple metropolis, even if it’s miles diminutive by regular requirements. For mother and father trying to loosen up, there is a superb pool deck lounging are to scouse borrow some moments of relaxation. The Sheraton long island also claims the gain of being notably close to Broadway and instances square.
Crown Plaza Time square resort – 1605 Broadway & forty ninth road, the big apple, N.Y. – positioned within the heart of instances square, the Crown Plaza hotel in times rectangular gives four lane, 55 foot pool in affiliation with the ny sports membership. The seating and living room deck vicinity is confined however usable. generally, 2 lanes are reserved for lap swimming and the others for amusement swimming, which reduces the usable length of the pool. however, this ny motel is a good alternative preference for households which might be vacationing in new york metropolis and need to be right inside the Broadway/times square vicinity. additionally, the Crown Plaza is a superb desire for the ones on tighter budgets.
Le Parker Meridien resort- 119 W. 56th road, ny, N.Y. – This midtown manhattan inn offers a 45 foot, 3 lane pool with a totally appealing and enjoyable pool seating area. The views from the pool look out on to valuable Park. This big apple lodge pool is small and on occasion it is able to get crowded, however it’s going to do the trick. It is a great desire for families searching out an upscale own family pleasant the big apple motel.
Mandarin Oriental ny- 80 Columbus Circle at sixtieth avenue, big apple, N.Y. – The Mandarin Oriental is a luxurious ny inn and its pool facilities are equally luxurious. The Mandarin Oriental likely gives the first-class big apple metropolis resort pools in terms of pricey atmosphere. Expansive floor-to-ceiling home windows offer excellent views of new York town. The pool front room place is on the Mandarin is impeccable and fashionable with plush front room chairs. regardless of being the best on the town, it can not be the first-class for a circle of relatives with very “lively” youngsters.
The Peninsula lodge ny- 700 fifth avenue at 55th road, big apple, N.Y. The Peninsula the big apple is some other luxury big apple inn with pool centers that rival the Mandarin Oriental’s. placed on the 23rd ground of the resort, there may be a pitcher enclosed pool region with a elegant décor that is calming and pretty enjoyable. At night time, incredible views of the town provide a captivating atmosphere. The pool with serve the children properly, but the dad and mom will simply appreciate the high-quality lounging area.
Millennium UN Plaza motel- One United nations Plaza, new york, N.Y. – positioned inside the United nations Plaza location, this the big apple resort has a 3 lane, 44 foot pool. The Millennium Plaza resort is a deluxe level new york motel located right near the United international locations constructing at the east aspect of Midtown new york. The resort’s pool is placed on the twenty seventh floor and gives spectacular perspectives of latest York. The pool’s front room region is a chunk a touch at the tight aspect, and isn’t one the greater enjoyable pool lounges regions to be had.For the ones seeking extra statistics on ny inns with pools, along with images, locations, fees and real as much as the minute lodge availability, a link to a web information page specific to the big apple inns with pools is listed within the aid segment following this text.own family friendly new york city sights: beyond finding a family friendly the big apple motel with a pool, there are some amazing sports for kids in new york town. in preference to struggling through countless pages of listings in journey publications with questionable price and accuracy, we advise these sure to delight recommended friendly big apple city sights. america female shop -For little ladies who love dolls, the american lady save is a pure fable land. equivalent to a high-end boutique with the ultra-modern American woman clothes models, it is a buying paradise. the american girl store sports activities a splendor Salon for American female dolls with real hair stylists, salon chairs and beauty stations with the works. Upstairs, there’s a Doll clinic wherein you can take your Doll for any repairs or other “approaches” which might be important. in the end, the american Doll store gives its personal tea and eating room which may be very popular for young ladies celebrating their birthday in fashion with friends and own family. the american lady save extensively utilized to have live theater productions themed around the American woman tales. unfortunately, this closed thanks to a few corporate weenie with inexperienced eye-coloration. but, all in all, we think this is one of the excellent experience primarily based youngster stores in new york town (sorry boys, despite the fact that the NBA shop is probably a close 2d.
The Bronx Zoo – Bronx River throughway and Boston street, Bronx, N.Y. 10460 – {looking for one of the world’s exceptional zoos? appearance no similarly than the Bronz Zoo. This new york zoo has an tremendous series of uncommon animals from around the arena, along with elephants, gorillas, giraffes, bears, rhinos and leopards. getting to the Bronx Zoo from downtown ny) is simple. Trains from Grand primary Station at the Metro North Line forestall at the Zoo. There are also explicit buses that make stops alongside Madison avenue which cross right to the Bronx Zoo. search for the BXM11 Buses on Madison.
The critical Park Carousel – valuable Park, new york, N.Y. – The carousel in valuable Park is a beautiful vintage style carousel. persevering with a way of life that stays ongoing given that 1871, located in central Park is a lovely fifty seven horse antique carousel. Ornate carved wooden horses look ahead to rides from kids within an old style carousel building that warmly greets you for your technique. It gives a easy satisfaction from times long since passed, and is a pleasant respite from the hustle and bustle of the day. at the same time as you are there, take advantage of the trails, garden areas and sculpted ponds within the park. it’s far a wonderfully relaxing and expansive setting and leaves one wondering how such a serene tempo can exist in a single the most important towns inside the world.
Dylan’s candy keep – 1011 third street, new york, ny – What Willy Wonka did for the imagination; Dylan’s candy shop does in truth. it is a veritable wonderland of candy for you to have the kid’s extensive-eyed and mouths extensive open with awe. new york metropolis candy keep is an absolute must go to, and mother and father we apologize for the post sweet sugar rush that follows.
Ellen’s Stardust Dinner – 1650 Broadway, new york, N.Y. – positioned in the Broadway Theater District, the Stardust Diner is a amusing enjoy for kids and adults alike. The dinner is a retro 50′s pressure-in theater topic, but the real deal with is the singing wait staff. constructed from aspiring Broadway actors, the team of workers will break out into a completely fledged Broadway fashion singing overall performance. The wait personnel is exceptionally a laugh and really pleasant and willing to kibitz. The kids will devour it up.
Empire state building – 350 5th road, thirty third & thirty fourth avenue, ny, N.Y. – go to the Empire country building and go to the observatory degree for a breathtaking view of latest York town. A Gorilla, ala King Kong, will greet you at the doorway line to the observatory. even though the perspectives and sheer top are certain to be an exciting experience, it also really worth looking to take a photo of the entire building from road level…keep on backing up. For a simply fun time, the night time earlier than your visit deliver alongside a DVD of the unique King Kong movie for a own family movie night time and then convey the youngsters tomorrow. It provides to the a laugh and mystique.
FAO Schwartz – 767 fifth street at 58th avenue, new york, N.Y. – FAO Schwartz is the mom of all toy shops in ny’s city. positioned throughout from valuable Park, FAO Schwartz is a infant’s dream come proper. providing the cutting-edge and greatest in toys, this save has some thing for every body. but, possibly the part we like the fine is the good sized stuffed animal collection. A virtual Noah’s ark of stuffed animals of each kind sprawls throughout the primary ground, which includes amazingly massive crammed animals (even though one wonders how you can ever delivery them home). if you do venture into FAO Schwartz maintain in mind you have zero likelihood of escaping with out buying something and costs aren’t at a discount.
Grand Slam – times rectangular, Broadway among forty sixth and forty seventh avenue, new york, new york. – Grand Slam is a cornucopia of new York souvenirs ranging from the famous FDNY tee shirts and caps to all things you could possibly believe which can bear a new york Yankees brand. This shop is aimed a tourists but continues to be hundreds of fun for sports minded children.
NBA keep – 666 fifth street at 52nd avenue, big apple, the big apple. – For the kid who loves basketball, that is your three-tale hops heaven. proper NBA products is served up, together with wonderful NBA jerseys and basketball shorts. NBA gamers often make appearances at the NBA shop and could signal autographs.
big apple kid’s Theater – fifty two White avenue (380 Broadway), the big apple, ny. – The new york children’s playhouse is a children’s theater that places on baby suitable productions based on famous fairytales and kid’s testimonies along with Rapunzel, Little red riding Hood, and the Brothers Grimm tales. those are high high-quality productions for youngsters, and they will captivate them.
Metropolitan Museum of art – 1000 fifth avenue, new york, N.Y. – The Metropolitan artwork Museum is one the sector’s greatest art museums. With an intensive collection containing among the most famous artwork and artistic endeavors ever produced, the Museum will captivate many children, specifically people with an interest in painting and art. The Egyptian, arms and Armor, Medieval and eu portray collections might be enjoyed by the youngsters.
Museum of herbal records – primary Park West at 79th road, the big apple, N.Y. -The Museum of herbal history is loaded with amusing collections and exciting reveals so one can truly capture the flamboyant of any infant, as well as the mother and father. From Egyptian mummies and sarcophagi, massive stuffed Elephants and wild beasts, dinosaur skeletons (together with the now well-known “Rexy” from the movie night at the Museum which greets you at the front door), American Indian relics, totem poles and greater. The Museum of natural history is an high-quality attraction for families.
SONY wonder technology Lab – 550 Madison Ave. & 56th avenue, new york, N.Y. – The Sony surprise era Lab is a top notch interactive laptop exploration surroundings for children. The well-knownshows encompass innovative interactive programs with slicing aspect technology, such as digital surgery stations, animation workstations, and nanotechnology and robots stations.
Theaterworks – 121 Christopher St, the big apple, N.Y. – positioned in Greenwich Village, Theaterworks is a notably acclaimed own family oriented theater production employer. shows are available best on weekends, but the performances are notable and noticeably acclaimed. Performances cowl children’s classics including Charlotte’s net, the Lion, the Witch and the wardrobe, and Seussical.
the new Victory Theater – 209 West 42nd road, new york, big apple. – positioned in the Broadway district, the brand new Victory Theater is a youth theater with a touch greater part to it, and probably higher suited to young adults and greater mature children. Performances run from the macabre to the more juvenile avant garde fashion. The indoors of the theater is stunningly ornate and with just 500 seats viewing is awesome.
big apple lodges With swimming pools and family pleasant the big apple metropolis sights
Product creation and the peculiar Couple
I heard a story recently about two animals which might be very different from each other. the primary is the american buffalo. the head of the buffalo is build pointing towards the earth. The buffalo eats grass and is in particular ready to do so. the second one animal is a giraffe. This animal has an extended neck and has a difficult time seeing something proper in front of them. The buffalo has a difficult time searching up and the giraffe has a tough time searching down. Face it those animals are very one-of-a-kind from every other.in terms of on line business and product creation those two animals are exquisite examples of a few key variations inside the primary style of entrepreneurs.like the buffalo there are some entrepreneurs which can be extremely detail oriented. these marketers might also have a hard time taking inside the ordinary scope of wherein they are going as a commercial enterprise in an effort to give attention to details.just like the giraffe there are other entrepreneurs that are more ‘big photograph’ commercial enterprise owner. They see wherein they want to head and run as speedy as they are able to most effective to stumble over matters that can had been right in the front of them, but they had been not able to look.The truth is product introduction calls for a person just like the giraffe which could look ahead and notice what the buffalo can’t. it could additionally require a buffalo that may see all the information that need to be addressed with a purpose to get to where the giraffe wants to go.in many places of work you will find an proprietor or supervisor that may be a giraffe who sees wherein the enterprise need to pass and is willing to run at a breakneck tempo to get there. If these people are sensible they may lease a ‘buffalo’ as an workplace or assistant supervisor. this would be someone who can manipulate the numerous information that permit the ‘giraffe’ to run.on occasion in product introduction this means commercial enterprise partners with differing temperaments. it can be a home-based commercial enterprise that finds a husband and wife who are complimentary in their approach to creating something new.Is it feasible we strive to make a buffalo right into a giraffe or visa versa? the point of interest of the giraffe is often within the bushes where they find leaves to consume. They can also see off in the distance and plan where to move subsequent. meanwhile, the buffalo is ingesting grass and might best see a small patch of actual estate in the front of them. The perspectives are absolutely extraordinary.Too often we assume greater from an man or woman than they recognise the way to supply. If they are geared up at being a visionary they will no longer be particularly good at office work. knowing this can help trade your strategy in product introduction, development, on line enterprise and genuinely each location of enterprise lifestyles.the good information is simply due to the fact you will be one of a kind from others in the way you method your business goals does not make you less capable, but all of us want others to help us attain our goals. in case you are a giraffe search for a buffalo. in case you are a buffalo search for a giraffe. it can look like an unusual couple, but whilst you both need each other to get where you’re going you have the first-rate of partnerships. in case you’re precisely the equal then certainly one of you isn’t virtually wanted.
Top 7 Mistakes Rookie Real Estate Agents Make
Every time I talk to someone about my business and career, it always comes up that “they’ve thought about getting into real estate” or know someone who has. With so many people thinking about getting into real estate, and getting into real estate – why aren’t there more successful Realtors in the world? Well, there’s only so much business to go around, so there can only be so many Real Estate Agents in the world. I feel, however, that the inherent nature of the business, and how different it is from traditional careers, makes it difficult for the average person to successfully make the transition into the Real Estate Business. As a Broker, I see many new agents make their way into my office – for an interview, and sometimes to begin their careers. New Real Estate Agents bring a lot of great qualities to the table – lots of energy and ambition – but they also make a lot of common mistakes. Here are the 7 top mistakes rookie Real Estate Agents Make.
1) No Business Plan or Business Strategy
So many new agents put all their emphasis on which Real Estate Brokerage they will join when their shiny new license comes in the mail. Why? Because most new Real Estate Agents have never been in business for themselves – they’ve only worked as employees. They, mistakenly, believe that getting into the Real Estate business is “getting a new job.” What they’re missing is that they’re about to go into business for themselves. If you’ve ever opened the doors to ANY business, you know that one of the key ingredients is your business plan. Your business plan helps you define where you’re going, how you’re getting there, and what it’s going to take for you to make your real estate business a success. Here are the essentials of any good business plan:
A) Goals – What do you want? Make them clear, concise, measurable, and achievable.
B) Services You Provide – you don’t want to be the “jack of all trades & master of none” – choose residential or commercial, buyers/sellers/renters, and what area(s) you want to specialize in. New residential real estate agents tend to have the most success with buyers/renters and then move on to listing homes after they’ve completed a few transactions.
C) Market – who are you marketing yourself to?
D) Budget – consider yourself “new real estate agent, inc.” and write down EVERY expense that you have – gas, groceries, cell phone, etc… Then write down the new expenses you’re taking on – board dues, increased gas, increased cell usage, marketing (very important), etc…
E) Funding – how are you going to pay for your budget w/ no income for the first (at least) 60 days? With the goals you’ve set for yourself, when will you break even?
F) Marketing Plan – how are you going to get the word out about your services? The MOST effective way to market yourself is to your own sphere of influence (people you know). Make sure you do so effectively and systematically.
2) Not Using the Best Possible Closing Team
They say the greatest businesspeople surround themselves with people that are smarter than themselves. It takes a pretty big team to close a transaction – Buyer’s Agent, Listing Agent, Lender, Insurance Agent, Title Officer, Inspector, Appraiser, and sometimes more! As a Real Estate Agent, you are in the position to refer your client to whoever you choose, and you should make sure that anyone you refer in will be an asset to the transaction, not someone who will bring you more headache. And the closing team you refer in, or “put your name to,” are there to make you shine! When they perform well, you get to take part of the credit because you referred them into the transaction.
The deadliest duo out there is the New Real Estate Agent & New Mortgage Broker. They get together and decide that, through their combined marketing efforts, they can take over the world! They’re both focusing on the right part of their business – marketing – but they’re doing each other no favors by choosing to give each other business. If you refer in a bad insurance agent, it might cause a minor hiccup in the transaction – you make a simple phone call and a new agent can bind the property in less than an hour. However, because it typically takes at least two weeks to close a loan, if you use an inexperienced lender, the result can be disastrous! You may find yourself in a position of “begging for a contract extension,” or worse, being denied a contract extension.
A good closing team will typically know more than their role in the transaction. Due to this, you can turn to them with questions, and they will step in (quietly) when they see a potential mistake – because they want to help you, and in return receive more of your business. Using good, experienced players for your closing team will help you infinitely in conducting business worthy of MORE business…and best of all, it’s free!
3) Not Arming Themselves with the Necessary Tools
Getting started as a Real Estate Agent is expensive. In Texas, the license alone is an investment that will cost between $700 and $900 (not taking into account the amount of time you’ll invest.) However, you’ll run into even more expenses when you go to arm yourself with the necessary tools of the trade. And don’t fool yourself – they are necessary – because your competitors are definitely using every tool to help THEM.
A) MLS Access is probably the most expensive necessity you’re going to run into. Joining your local (and state & national, by default) Board of Realtors will allow you to pay for MLS access, and in Austin, Texas, will run around $1000. However, don’t skimp in this area. Getting MLS access is one of the most important things you can do. It’s what differentiates us from your average salesman – we don’t sell homes, we present any of the homes that we have available. With MLS Access, you will have 99% of the homes for sale in your area available to present to your clients.
B) Mobile Phone w/ a Beefy Plan – These days, everyone has a cell phone. But not everyone has a plan that will facilitate the level of use that Real Estate Agents need. Plan on getting at least 2000 minutes per month. You want, and need, to be available to your clients 24/7 – not just nights and weekends.
C) Computer (Preferably a Laptop) – There’s no way around it, you have to have a computer & be savvy enough to use email. You would be wise to invest in some business management software, as well. If you’d like to save some money (and who wouldn’t) then you can get the client & email management software Thunderbird from http://www.mozilla.com and you can get a free office suite from http://www.openoffice.org The only downside to these programs is that they do not sync with your PDA or Smart Phone. A Laptop is a BIG plus because you’ll be able to work from home or on the go. New Real Estate Agents are often surprised by just how much time they spend AWAY from the office, and a laptop helps you stay on top of your work while on the go.
D) Real Estate Friendly Car – You don’t have to have a Lexus, but your Miata won’t do the trick. Make sure that you have a 4 door car or SUV that is comfortable and presentable. Keep it clean, and for God’s sake, don’t smoke in it! You’re going to spend a LOT of time in your car, and put a lot of miles on it, so if it’s fuel efficient, it’s a BIG plus. If you’re driving a sporty convertible, or still have your KILLER Jeep from college, it’s time to trade it in.
4) Lack of Proper Funding
If you’ve taken the time to create your business plan, than you should definitely have your budget, but I can’t stress enough the importance of having and following your budget. However, the budget alone doesn’t address the important aspect of funding. 90% of all small businesses fail due to lack of funding. Typically, new agents will want to have 3 months of reserves in savings before taking the leap into full time agency. However, money in the bank isn’t the only way to answer the question of funding. Maybe your partner can support you for a certain period of time. You can keep a part-time job that won’t interfere with your business as a Real Estate Agent. Many successful waiters make the transition to successful real estate agents with no money in the bank. When you start your new business, don’t expect to earn any income for, at the least, 60 days.
5) Refusing to Spend Money on Marketing
Most new Real Estate Agents don’t realize that the hardest part of the business is finding the business. Furthermore, they’ve just shelled out around $2000 for their license and board dues, so the LAST thing they want to do is to spend more money! Again, the problem lies in the lack of understanding that you’ve just jumped into the Real Estate Business, you haven’t taken a new job. And any good businessperson will tell you that how much business you GET is directly correlative to how much you SPEND on marketing. If you choose the right brokerage, then you will get some good inbound leads. However, don’t neglect a good, personal marketing campaign from the beginning to get your own name out as the Real Estate Agent to go to.
6) Not Focusing Their Marketing Efforts in the Most Effective Areas
One reason why many new Real Estate Agents who do begin spending money on personal marketing stop is because they spend it in the wrong place. The easiest place, and where conventional Real Estate tells you to spend your money, is in conventional print marketing – the newspaper, real estate magazines, etc… This is the most visible place to see real estate advertising, it’s where large offices spend a good part of their money, and so many new agents mistakenly spend their money here. This becomes very frustrating to new agents because of its low return. Large brokerages can afford to spend their money here because they’re filling two needs – they’re marketing their own properties for sale while creating new buyer traffic for their buyer’s agents. New Real Estate Agents should look to their own sphere of influence and referral marketing to see the most effective return on their investment. An agent can spend as little as $100/month marketing to their family, friends, and colleagues and see an incredible return. There are many great referral systems around that all focus on the same premise – that if you consistently market yourself to your sphere of influence as the Real Estate Agent to go to – then you will get more business. The key is to pick a system and to follow that system. You will see results.
7) Choosing the Wrong Brokerage for the Wrong Reasons
New Real Estate Agents choose their new broker for a variety of reasons – they have a good reputation, they offer the most competitive split, the office is close to their house, etc… While these alone aren’t bad reasons to choose a broker, they aren’t going to do a lot to help you in your success. The #1 reason to choose a broker, and the question to ask is, “What do you offer your new agents.” If the answer is, “The most competitive split in town” you should definitely keep looking. Remember, 100% of $0 is still $0. If you’re leaning towards the largest broker in town, who has a great reputation, remember this: You’re starting a BUSINESS not a JOB. While it might be fantastic to brag to your friends about landing a job at a prestigious company, it’s no accomplishment to hang your license on the same wall in the same office as other successful agents.
Your #1 concern when interviewing new Brokers is what they offer you as a new agent. Do they have incoming leads? What does their training program consist of? What’s their retention level? What’s their average sales price? Do they encourage their agents to promote themselves? A Broker’s purpose is to help new agents start successful careers and to help established Agents progress their careers to the next level. As a new agent, concern yourself less with commission split or agency name and more with specific programs and agency standards.
A new career in Real Estate is very exciting. Starting a Real Estate business provides the new Agent with opportunities for limitless potential and freedom. New Agents have a notoriously high failure rate, however, so a new Real Estate career can also be a very scary prospect. However, if you avoid the 7 Top Mistakes Rookie Real Estate Agents Make, then you’ll
Report: The Real Estate Market In Panama
Most likely, you have heard of the recent real estate BOOM currently occurring in Panama. Perhaps, there are several internet sites you have read or visited searching for further information on the topic. Or maybe you are one of those persons that have taken the decision already of buying an apartment or a beach house, but you don’t know where to start or wish to start your own real estate project in Panama, yet still need more information. Well, I have prepared this article in a practical and simple way in order to guide you in our real estate market. You will find this paper helpful, whether it’ll be for the direct buying of a property or to start your own real estate project in Panama or simply to have a more complete notion of this rising real estate BOOM.
What is happening in the Panamanian Real Estate market?
What is going on in Panama is without any sort of precedent. The market is growing rapidly and such real estate development has never been experienced before in our country. Monthly, we are visited for hundreds of foreigners interested in buying real estates in Panama, in the City, the coasts and the mountains. The constant rising of the value per square meter is almost in a monthly rate. For example: in January, 2006 it was possible to find apartments in Panama City for around US$ 1,000.00 per square meter, which is nearly impossible nowadays (US$ 1,200 – US$1,400 and rising). This has generated the value per square meter to triplicate in the city and even to quadruplicate in the rest of the country. The main real estate broker associations have foreseen that the general value of the land in Panama could rise up to 30% to 40% in the next three years, due to this price increasing flow.
Extreme luxury towers of over 100 stories, residential houses of over a million dollars, yachts and marine clubs, huge luxury hotels, golf camps designed by well-known international specialists, as well as top of the line malls, are currently under construction or in process of delivering in the next couple of years; renovating the face of the city into an international and cosmopolitan metropolis. Promoters, private investors and international real estate companies, from United States, South America and even Europe, have started the construction of real estate projects of great impact. Also, a great number of international real estate broker companies are currently setting up businesses in our country per month. Specifically we could say that seven of the highest towers under construction in Latin America are being built in Panama City, within the areas known as “Avenida Balboa” (this area is projected as the skyscraper in front of the sea in the city). We could mention, among others: Aqualina, Aquamare, Vitri, Ocean Two and One, Los Faros de Panama and Ice Tower, ready to be delivered for the year 2009; besides the hundreds of apartment towers bring developed around the city. Great beach lot projects, island resorts, as much as in the Caribbean Sea (Bocas del Toro) as in the Pacific Ocean (Pearl Islands); as well as delightful retirement mountains (Boquete, Altos del Maria) are part of the avalanche of real estate projects that seems just to be starting.
Which are the real factors that caused this real estate boost?
We all know that after the hostilities occurred in Panama in 1989, the Panamanian real estate market remained hesitant and the small amount of inversions in this sector were led in its majority into commercial projects. Eleven years had to run by after this event (year 2000) for the leaders in the tourist sector of the Panamanian government (led by the well-known Panamanian singer Ruben Blades) to take action initiating a serious campaign for the enhancement of the country’s image. Panama was shown as “the path less traveled”, stressing not only in the advantages of being and international banking services and offshore center, but also in the social, tourist, ecological and geographic elements that until then were unknown to the rest of the world. This successful campaign was promoted worldwide in the main international television chains, in Europe as well as in the United States. Added to this, something that has to be acknowledged, for the year 2003 Panama comes back to the international field with the announcement that a young Panamanian lady (Justin Pasek) won the Miss Universe contest, situation that allowed by extension the range of advantages of our country as a tourist and commercial destiny. Between the years 2003 and 2005, little by little the number of visitors increased as a consequence of these two important catalysts.
Meanwhile, small groups of professionals (lawyers, brokers, and independent professionals) were offering seminars about the Panama’s advantages or organized small real estate tours to foreigners. Several articles published in international retirement magazines (generation known as “Baby Boomers”) and second residences abroad, started to acknowledged Panama as one of the best countries in the world to live at high standard levels, but with low costs; all of this caused due to excellent projects addressed to this market, as “El Valle Escondido” in Boquete – Chiriqui or “Altos del Maria” in Panama. One of the main triggering factors of this real estate boost in Panama occurred last April 24th, 2006, when Donald Trump announced in New York City the construction in “Punta Pacifica” area in Panama City of a 65-story tower branded as “Trump Ocean Club International Hotel”, with a cost of 220 million dollars. Further more, on October of the same year, the national acceptance for the enlargement of the Panama Canal was given, initiating construction works in the year 2009. Starting from this point, there is no doubt that Panama would become the centre and role model of real estate investments in the area, situation that has been increasing exponentially.
Which are then Panama’s advantages as a real estate destiny?
Well, let’s get into the subject. Let’s study those advantages that Panama offers and that will allow you, effectively, to take the decision to buy a property in our country, as many foreigners have done. From the real estate point of view, we could mention:
-*- Panama offers the best banking center in the region, with the use of the American dollar as legal currency and with top of the line banks (HSBC, CITIBANK, BBVA, etc.) which will facilitate the process of obtaining mortgages for foreigners, offering a fast international bank transaction process for deposits and reservation of properties.
-*- Panamanian immigration law has one of the best retirement programs in the world, which will allow you to become a “resident” in less than two months. This program offers several incentives as the possibility to import goods and personal values into your new properties free of import duties, as well as motor vehicles also free of import duties.
-*- An outstanding service, utilities and infrastructure system for properties, such as: high speed Internet (there are five of the main Internet interconnection Networks crossing through Panama), Cable and Satellite TV, public potable water, wide range of telephony offer, fixed and cellular.
-*- The opportunity to buy extreme luxury apartments with ample spaces to a price amazingly low compare with apartments of the same quality in USA and Europe.
-*- The opportunity to acquire properties exempt to the 0% of property taxes for a period of 5, 10, 15 and even 20 years (depending on the date of construction’s commencement).
-*- A vast variety of companies and bilingual professionals involved in the real estate market.
-*- If you are a businessman, Panamanian law has fiscal benefits to constructors and promoters that start real estate projects in the country.
Additionally, there are other advantages to take into consideration that even when you are not directly involved in the real estate business, they can become helpful at the moment of taking the decision of buying a property:
-*- Panama has been acknowledge for companies as Pinkerton Intelligence Agency as a high standard security country in contrast with the current situation in neighboring countries.
-*- You can hire house keeping services for a low cost (around US$ 150.00 per month)
-*- Up-to-date high standard technology available.
-*- The opportunity to acquire products from all over the world in the Colon Free Zone, due to the noticeable position of the Panama Canal and the transit of over 14,000 ships per year.
-*- The conditions of Panamanian taxation law allow the tax payer not to pay taxes on bank interests or even income taxes when the service and/or business are performed abroad.
-*- An exceptional geographic position to perform international commercial transactions, with fast access to the Pacific Ocean as well as to the Atlantic.
-*- Panama has a low-risk profile in regards to natural disasters, such as earthquakes and hurricanes.
These are some of the many advantages that Panama can offer if you decide to acquire a property in our country, whether it is to invest or simply to relocate and enjoy life.
Which are the most attractive places to buy properties?
To better answer this question, we have to divide our answer in four groups: Panama City, the mountains, the Pacific shore and the Atlantic shore.
Panama City
The main seaside view luxury condos are found in Panama City, distributed as follows: Balboa Avenue, Punta Pacifica and Costa del Este. The region known as “Avenida Balboa” has become the icon of real estate development in Panama. The reason for this is due to the current construction of luxury residential apartment towers with an outstanding architecture with a height of over 100 stories, to be concluded in the year 2009. Balboa Avenue offers quick access to the whole city, the banking area, as well as to the main avenues, given that it is the coast boulevard. One hundred meters away from this area you will find restaurants, bars, hotels and several facilities. European promoters, American and South Americans have foreseen the real estate potential in this area, equivalent to condos phenomenon occurred in Miami during the eighties. “Punta Pacifica” area was developed over the old City airport (for the reason that it was next to the pacific coast and inside the city). This region was designed specially to provide an answer to the upcoming real estate demand. The area offers beautiful projects and high standard apartment towers. You will also find in “Punta Pacifica” malls (Multiplaza Pacific), Hospitals (John Hopkins Hospital), corporate buildings and access to highways (Corredor Sur) which will grant you fast access to the international airport in 15 minutes. Is also in this sector where the Trump Organization and K Group will raise their promoted real estate project. Another of the desired areas for foreigners is Costa del Este.
The “other city” as is referred to was also conceived and designed for the development of apartment buildings and closed residential communities. It is the perfect place for a foreigner to completely relocate in Panama. This region has it all schools, malls, wide avenues; this sector offers several real estates with a gorgeous view to the sea or to the city, located five minutes away from the city and only ten from the international airport. It also important to stress out that this luxury tower’s development is not circumscribed to these few areas. There are also urban projects in the region of Punta Paitilla, Coco del Mar and San Francisco (all of them in front of the sea), as well as beautiful developed residential areas in the surroundings of the Panama Canal, such as Albrook, Clayton and Quarry Heights.
The Mountains
Gorgeous mountain projects with cool, fresh weather from 18Cº to 20Cº (64ºF to 68ºF) have been developed in the provinces of Panama, Cocle and Chiriqui. In the province of Panama, the most representative mountain project is found in the region of Sora, 75 minutes away from the City and known as “Altos del Maria”. This project consists of a well-organized foreigner’s community with utilities and spectacular landscapes. Another region of urban development can be found in what is known as “Tierras Altas” (High Lands) located in the province of Chiriqui (Volcan, Boquete and Cerro Punta). Among these places, Boquete has become one of the most relevant real estate centres in the whole country, given that it counts with a wide supply of real estate projects, residential houses in the mountains with amazing landscapes. Boquete has been recognized by specialist in the subject as one of the best places for retirement in the world, fact that has generated in this region the highest concentration of retired foreigners in the country. Finally, in the province of Cocle, you will find the region known as “El Valle”. Located in an extinguished volcano, El Valle offers the perfect weather, rivers, waterfalls and tourist attractions. El Valle is at present taking measures to become one of the most wanted regions in the field of mountain real estate properties, owing to its facilities and infrastructure, as well as to its proximity to Panama City (1hr. 45 mins.)
The Pacific Shore
The supply of lots in front of the sea starts in the pacific coast line of the Province of Panama, and it goes all the way until the mid-country provinces. Most Panamanian high-class families have their beach houses on this sector; due to its proximity to the City (45 minutes). This coast line offers residential areas such as Came, Coronado, Punta Barco, San Carlos, Gorgona, among others. Within these beach residential areas we have to remark the region known as “Coronado”, region which counts with one of the best professional Golf camps in Latin America, pools, beach clubs, equestrian clubs, several restaurants and great supply of houses and apartment buildings in front of the sea. Additionally, further on in the pacific coast line, we can find the region of Playa Blanca. Since the development of the macro hotel project known as “Royal Decameron” in the area, the infrastructure and general surroundings have grow significantly. In Playa Blanca, you will be able to find casinos, swimming pools, restaurants, bars and discotheques, beach clubs and a great variety of real estate projects just right next to the beach. Finally, we should also mention the recent development experienced in the seaside areas the provinces of Los Santos (Pedasi) and Veraguas, such as Playa Arenal, Punta Mala and Playa Venao, among others; which have become the new destiny for many foreigners (mostly Europeans) that are searching for great extensions of lands in front of the sea.
The Caribbean Shore
In this area, we can find a similar supply of real estate properties to the one found in the pacific coastline of the mid-country provinces. There are several properties in front of the sea, as well as vast extensions of hectares next to the beach. This region is located two hours away from Panama City and it offers the option to buy in the well-known Colon Free Zone. On the west side of the country, you will find in the Caribbean coastline, the spectacular region of Bocas del Toro, where properties next of the sea or in the middle of an island are simply astounding. A great variety of international real estate companies have started projects in the crystal clear waters of Bocas del Toro. Bocas is one of the most known tourist destinies in Panama, located only 1hr and 45 minutes away by plane. It offers an amazing night life, restaurant, hotels and tours around the different islands of the area. Bocas del Toro coastline has become the most wanted real estate choice for retired or pensioned foreigners in the Caribbean. Among the best areas of Bocas del Toro you can find Isla Colon, Boca del Drago, Red Frog Beach and Playa Larga. The residential project known as Red Frog is of renowned reputation in the international spheres, given that it offers an incredible exclusively designed development for foreigners in one of the most beautiful islands in Bocas del Toro, Bastimento’s Island. The project has marine clubs, restaurants, houses and a dazzling infrastructure.
Islands
The most notorious group of islands is found in Bocas del Toro, given that, as we already mentioned it offers a wide variety of real estate projects in the Caribbean, scenario of several TV series broadcasted around the world. The most important islands of the archipelago are: Isla Colon, Isla Bastimentos, Isla Solarte, Isla Cristobal, Isla Popa and Isla Zapatilla. Likewise, we can found several small independent islands for private projects. Bocas’ islands counts with an astonishing ecosystem for scuba diving, marine activities and bird watching. Another group of islands that is raising popularity is the real estate market found in the archipelago of Mosquito’s Gulf, in front of the pacific coastline of the province of Chiriqui. This Gulf has been granted by the Panamanian government the title of Ecological Reserve, as a consequence of the great diversity of marine fauna found in the area. Most of the islands have registered real estate titles, which allow its prompt buying. The surroundings of these islands are famous for being one of the best places in the world for Black Marlin fishing. The Pearl Islands are located within the Gulf of Panama, three hours away from the city in the open sea, offering a group of more than 35 beautiful islands with spectacular landscapes, surrounded by coral reefs and vast vegetation. The beauty of this area attracted the production team of the popular reality show “Survivor”, who has filmed several times in this region. Finally, you will find the island of “Coiba” in the Pacific Ocean, formerly a prison already abolished and currently a National Park. The main island and its small islands such as Isla Iguana have become in top destinies for scuba diving and water sports.