Due to the boom and multiplicity of businesses in Panama, in addition to its attractive economic stability, numerous entrepreneurs have become interested in the real estate market in recent years. The variety of properties and the benefits of their transactions in terms of profits are some of the most attractive points for an entrepreneur in United States to specialize in real estate.
Nevertheless, it is highly recommended to stay updated on the latest developments in Panama’s property market if you’re looking to become a real estate agent and successfully build your career in the field.
What is a real estate agent?
A real estate agent is an expert in the property market responsible for facilitating transactions involving buying, selling, and leasing properties. The primary role is to connect buyers with sellers, offering tailored guidance and handling all the legal and administrative processes essential for a real estate deal.
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 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 negligence claims and government penalties.
- Submit a power of attorney and a legal request through an attorney, duly authenticated by a notary public, and include a legal form.
- Provide evidence of Panamanian citizenship or, if you are a foreign national, demonstrate a minimum of 5 years of residency.
- Pay an annual fee of twenty-five (USD 25) U.S. dollars for Stamp Taxes.
- Show evidence of a clean criminal record.
Exploring the Advantages of Being a Real Estate Agent in Panama
Working as a real estate agent within the expansive real estate market in Panama involves staying active and well-informed about the array of potential property transactions and negotiations with clients. Additionally, there are several advantages to consider when preparing for a career as a real estate agent in Panamanian territory. These include:
- Strategic location: Panama is a country located in Central America, which gives it an advantageous position to attract international investors and buyers. As a real estate agent, you can have access to an international client base and help facilitate cross-border transactions.
- Tax reduction: this benefit is one of the favorites due to the financial relief it means for the agent. For example, if you buy a property with a cadastral value below $120,000, you will not have to pay taxes on that property under Law 66 of 2017. In turn, properties with a cadastral value up to $120,000 are exempt from real estate taxes, while properties with a cadastral value between $120,001 and $700,000 are taxed at 0.5% of the cadastral value. And if the cadastral value is higher than $700,000, then the corresponding tax is 0.7% of the cadastral value.
- Developing real estate market: it is a fact that the real estate market has continued to grow like foam over the last few years, allowing you to move up as an agent in this field very quickly.
- Possibility of residency permit as an investor: another benefit that is being taken advantage of by real estate investors is the real estate investment visa program. This is based on the fact that by making a real estate investment that complies with the legal requirements established in the country, investors can apply for and obtain residency.
Legal Solutions Panama: Specialists in Legal Guidance for Establishing Your Business as a Real Estate Agent
To make a remarkable entrance into the real estate market, it’s crucial to have a company set up for this specific purpose. Therefore, if you’re in the initial stages of a project and are eager to launch in the real estate arena, the wisest choice is to seek expert assistance for establishing your business. Similarly, Legal Solutions Panama specializes in setting up companies in Panama.
With their vast experience, the Legal Solutions team is well-equipped to guide you through the process of incorporating your company. Their expertise ensures that all procedures are executed accurately, minimizing unexpected issues and guaranteeing a successful launch.
To find out more about their offerings, feel free to visit their site, where you can enjoy a complimentary thirty-minute consultation with one of their experts.