What if I told you the Panama real estate market is booming… but not in the way you'd expect?
Most people think it's just retirees looking for sunshine and low costs—but the real story is way more exciting.

Want to know where North American buyers are actually putting their money right now? That answer might surprise you.

But before we get to that, let me ask you something even more important… What trend is quietly reshaping the most popular expat communities in Panama?

And no—it’s not just about saving a few bucks.

Let’s count down the seven biggest trends you need to know before you buy real estate in Panama.

Trend #7 – Panama Is the “Plan B” Playground
Let’s start with the most misunderstood trend: the Plan B buyers. A wave of people from around the world are buying property in Panama not because they’re ready to move today… but because they want options for tomorrow.

They're not applying for second passports. They’re simply hedging their bets. In today’s uncertain world, the idea of owning a second home in a stable, affordable, tropical country? That’s peace of mind you can’t put a price on.

If you don’t have a Plan B yet, it’s time to seriously consider Panama.  Because the people who sleep best at night are the ones who already have a plan in place.

That’s why buyers are acting now—not for a big move tomorrow, but to secure their Plan B today. But here’s the twist--why are so many of these buyers choosing pre-construction over ready-to-move-in homes?


Trend #6 – Pre-Construction Is on Fire
In Panama City, Playa Bonita, and even Boquete, pre-construction units are flying off the shelves.
Why?

Because it’s the sweet spot between affordability and flexibility. Buyers can lock in pricing now, make payments over time, and move in when they’re ready—or rent it out for passive income until they ARE ready.
Some of my clients don’t plan to move for another three to five years—but they’ve already secured the perfect ocean-view condo or mountain retreat.

For anyone thinking long-term, pre-construction just makes sense. But what happens when demand starts to outpace supply?

Trend #5 – Inventory Is Shrinking in Hot Areas
This is especially true in Panama City—good resale units are disappearing fast. Ocean-view condos, luxury apartments, anything turnkey? You better act quickly or someone else will.

Now in Boquete, the inventory hasn’t tightened as much…yet… but that’s changing. New developments are popping up to meet growing interest, and smart buyers are getting in early. Developers are rushing to meet demand—and that’s a good sign for future value.

So what kinds of properties are disappearing first? It’s not what most people expect.

Trend #4 – Smaller, Smarter Homes Are In (and Built for Aging in Place)
Forget the McMansion. Today’s expats are thinking practical, modern, and low maintenance.
Smaller condos, smart-home features, lock-and-leave options—they’re all hot.
But here’s what’s really interesting…People are choosing homes they can age into.
That means no stairs. Buildings with elevators. Walk-in showers. Minimal upkeep.
They’re planning for today AND tomorrow, and it’s changing how developers design spaces.
You see, it's not just about size—it's about sustainability and longevity.
But how much do these properties actually cost? Let’s break down the numbers.

TREND #3 – Prices Are Rising… But Are Still Affordable
Compared to the U.S. and Canada, Panama’s prices still feel like a bargain. In top Panama City neighborhoods, you’re looking at around $2,000 to $3,000 per square meter, depending on location and amenities.

Want a beachfront condo? You can still find options in Coronado starting around $200,000 or in Playa Bonita starting at about $300,000.

And in Boquete, you can get a pre-construction apartment starting at about $250,000. Yes, prices are rising—but the window of opportunity is still open. That’s why savvy buyers are jumping in now before the next price wave hits.
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So where are the hidden gems—the places people aren’t paying attention to yet?

TREND #2 – Secondary Markets Are Heating Up
While Panama City and Boquete get most of the headlines, other areas are quietly gaining traction.

Think Playa Bonita, Punta Chame, and mountain communities such as Altos del Maria. Why? Because they offer better views, more privacy, and in many cases—better value. And once a few smart buyers move in… the demand follows.

If you want to get in early and ride the appreciation wave, don’t sleep on these emerging areas. But what’s the #1 trend that’s shaping Panama’s real estate market for the next decade?

Trend #1 – Buyers Are Thinking Long-Term
We’ve officially entered the era of the long game. Gone are the days of quick flips or short-term speculation.
Today’s buyers are looking for retirement homes, legacy properties, rental income opportunities, and second homes they can pass on to their kids. They’re choosing lifestyle over short-term ROI.

And they’re investing in something that gives them both peace of mind and freedom of choice. This is no longer just a trend—it’s a transformation.

CLOSING
whether you're investigating Panama for lifestyle, investment, or your own personal Plan B… the Panama real estate market has never been more dynamic.

It’s affordable, it’s accessible, and most importantly—it’s evolving.

If you’re ready to explore the best properties in Panama’s most popular expat areas, reach out to me directly at ChoosePanama.com/contact. Remember, experience matters, and at Choose Panama, we can help you avoid costly mistakes.

Thanks for tuning in,
See you in Panama!

HOOK
Everyone dreams of moving to paradise…
But what if I told you that some expats come to Panama--
fall in love with the beaches, the prices, the weather--
and still regret it?
Why?
Because they didn’t know this one thing before they moved.
But before we get into that—let me ask you this:
What’s the #1 habit that turns first-year expats into lifelong success stories in Panama?
(And no—it’s not learning Spanish.)
 
EXPECTATIONS VS. REALITY
What’s the one thing you need to know to avoid regret? You have to come with realistic expectations. This isn’t a slower-paced version of the U.S. This is Latin America—and it dances to a different rhythm. Things move slower. Communication is indirect. And “mañana” doesn’t always mean tomorrow.

If you come expecting everything to work like it does back home… you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. But what about the success stories? What’s the one mindset shift they ALL seem to have in common?

THE FLEXIBILITY FACTOR
Here’s the truth: Flexibility is your superpower in Panama. The expats who thrive here are the ones who roll with the unexpected—Like when the Wi-Fi drops during a Zoom call… or your new piece of furniture shows up three days late.

They don’t sweat the small stuff. Instead, they laugh, adjust, and pour a glass of wine. Because here’s the thing: The more you let go, the better life gets. And that #1 habit?

It’s not about schedules or language or budgeting. It’s the habit of staying curious. Asking “What can I learn from this?” instead of “Why doesn’t this work like it should?” But there’s one mistake that even flexible expats make--and it’s the fastest way to ruin your dream life in Panama. Can you guess what it is?

COMMUNITY IS EVERYTHING
It’s isolation. You can’t build a life here alone. Panama’s not just about palm trees and low taxes—it’s about connection. Whether it’s joining a local hiking group, volunteering at a rescue shelter, or just chatting with your Uber driver…

Finding community is the single best way to make this country feel like home. Because here, relationships open doors. To learn more about why community is so important, watch this video next. 

But even the most connected expats can feel lost if they miss this final piece of the puzzle. What’s the ONE decision you need to make early… or risk regretting it forever?

You need to decide what kind of life you want to live.
Not what kind of house. Not what kind of neighborhood. But what kind of life. Do you want adventure or comfort? Quiet mornings or vibrant nightlife? Ocean breeze or mountain mist?
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Panama offers it all—but it can’t read your mind. (And as your real estate broker, neither can I.)

If you don’t choose your lifestyle with intention, you’ll drift. And drifting is what leads to regret. So think about what kind of life you want… and then be sure to let me know before you go house hunting.

CLOSING
So here’s the bottom line: Come curious. Stay flexible. Plug in. And above all—be intentional with your new life in Panama.

That’s how you live in Panama without regrets.

If you found this helpful, hit that Subscribe button and join me for more expat insights every week.

What kind of life are YOU hoping to build in Panama? I can’t wait to hear.

Until next time, Cheers!