Best LATAM country to buy a small house in?
Posted by idiskfla@reddit | expats | View on Reddit | 173 comments
I’m interested in knowing what you’d recommend to be the safest / easiest country in LATAM to buy a small house in?
Less focuses on beauty and attractions for the purposes of this discussion, but more interested in knowing where it’s not significantly more of a hassle to buy property than in one’s own home country.
I feel priced out of the US (or at least I’m not buying at current prices in the cities that interest me), and could see myself living in LATAM for at least 10 years starting next year.
Main issues are safety, property rights, legality (don’t want to have to setup a corporation with other people just to own property), and relative value (can be more expensive, just not insane for what it is).
MexicanPete@reddit
I live in Nicaragua and own my house and other properties here. It's fantastic
eatitnerds@reddit
Hey Pete, i would love to pick your brain about this, are you open to chat?
eatitnerds@reddit
Okay sending now!
MexicanPete@reddit
Sure. Send a message
zerosdontcount@reddit
what part?
MexicanPete@reddit
Managua (capital) and popoyo area (emerald coast)
Benjamino77@reddit
Try renting in a gated community while you figure out what to buy. Make sure security is top-notch then you’ll be able to better asses.
Alexander_Starr@reddit
How would living in a gated community help this person "asses" (it's assess)? They just explained that they were feeling priced out of the US. Sorry not everyone has as much money as you do.
Benjamino77@reddit
Yes but a gated community is the only way to go for safety. Share a house or apartment if needed but never live in a place without a security guard if you don't want to be robbed at night or even kidnapped and have no recourse.
Alexander_Starr@reddit
You think that anyone living outside of a gated community anywhere in Latin America is at constant risk of being kidnapped or robbed?? Watching a bit too many vice "documentaries" I can see.
Benjamino77@reddit
This is for a beginner with little to no experience in Latin America. Of course a gated community is best when you're having an introduction into things and don't know any neighbors, have any friends etc. A gated community provides not only security but also a network if you will of neighbors who are likely not trying to rob you or your house when you leave it empty.
Routine-External-220@reddit
to better what
Benjamino77@reddit
Understand the local market and stores Contractors builders and suppliers
Nicadreaming@reddit
Nicaragua… you wont believe how good it is. Safer than all the other countries mentioned… and cheaper. And often more beautiful. People are incredibly friendly. Easily could buy a house for $20k. Even if you rent, can easily survive on $700 a month.
yaboyog@reddit
What would be a nice town/city near the beach to buy a property? Interested in good food, nice beaces. Safety. Enough resources etc
Pika-the-bird@reddit
Until the next coup. Once they get Ortega out, god knows what comes next.
Nicadreaming@reddit
Sounds like you better stay away. Far away. Way too dangerous for you.
Pika-the-bird@reddit
I know people who died on the barricades in 2019, gringo. What, are you trying to sell timeshares or sex tours to Grenada and I’m messing up your pitch?
Nicadreaming@reddit
What are you talking about? What happened in 2019?
Pika-the-bird@reddit
https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2020/mar/11/over-100000-have-fled-nicaragua-since-brutal-2018-crackdown-says-un
Nicadreaming@reddit
Duh everyone knows what happened in 2018
Pika-the-bird@reddit
Well maybe almost everyone knows, but you obviously don’t know this isn’t contained to 2018. https://gjia.georgetown.edu/2023/03/17/nicaragua-on-the-brink-protests-elections-and-mass-atrocity/
Nicadreaming@reddit
I had a friend killed in NYC. Nobody should travel to the USA 🙄
worldisbraindead@reddit
We owned an apartment in Santiago, Chile from 2004 to 2012 or 2013 and also lived in Buenos Aries for a year or so. Here are my thoughts...
Chile is safe...although with a new socialist President, things there are occasional civil problems. A couple of years ago when they raised the cost of a Metro ticket by the equivalent of .05 cents, the capital erupted and young people vandalized many parts of the city. That said, Chile is normally one of the most stable countries in SA. The country is the economic engine of South America, although one could argue that Uruguay is right up there with them. The climate is awesome. The country is beautiful. The people are...a little stand-offish and the food is a bit boring, but the wine is excellent. Overall, we enjoyed living there and our property value more than doubled when we sold it. All-in-all, Chile is a great place to live.
Buenos Aries, Argentina is one of my favorite cities in the world. The food & wines are spectacular. The people are super friendly. The city is very European and metropolitan. There are tons of museums and art galleries and tons of awesome street cafés and an endless amount of cultural events. Unfortunately, the economy really sucks and and has for almost 30 years. There are constantly rumblings that the government may nationalize properties and seize properties owned by foreigners. That hasn't happened and likely won't. However, it's important to remember that in 2003, every bank in the country closed their doors and absconded with everyone's money and the government refused (or were unable) to do anything about it. In fact, the World Bank and International Monetary Fund refused to loan Argentina any money because of the banking scandal and the fact that the country's credit rating were in the toilet. Inflation in Argentina is 113%, but many financial analysts report it to be closer to 124%. So, as much as I love Argentina...and I do LOVE it...the financial stability of the country is sketchy...at best.
I've been to Uruguay a couple of times and really enjoyed it. The economy is excellent and, like Argentina, it has great food. I don't think I would want to live there as the pace is S-L-O-W.
I see someone listed Paraguay as being "very safe" and having "the most stable economy in Latin America"...Sorry, but NO on both accounts.
Brazil is amazing and it's an awesome place to visit, but it has questionable safety. There is a fair amount of crime throughout the country and the country is currently going though an unstable political period.
a_in_planes@reddit
Chile's social problems are the result of years of neoliberal economic policies. And if you refer to the social outburst, it happened in 2019 in a right-wing government. Be careful with spreading lies. Source: I am Chilean
worldisbraindead@reddit
I said "a couple of years ago"... I think most people who speak English understand that to be in the recent past.
In terms of it happening under a "right-wing" government, Piñera was center-right and by most standards was hardly a hard right President. The social uprising was a result of the same old story...young Socialists wanting free shit.
Your comment is EXACTLY why I did not give the people of Chile a good review and didn't say anything like, "the people are warm and welcoming"...because they're NOT.
Source: I am a dual citizen of the United States and Chile and I am married to a Chilean and have an extensive family in there. I have lived in Chile for a combined total of about 10 years, have business interests there and know exactly what I'm talking about, so don't give me the "Be careful with spreading lies" bullshit. The vandalism and riots were perpetrated by leftists...plain and simple.
Whenever people ask about certain countries that they are considering moving to, I always warn them of going anywhere run by Socialists. It's mostly a guarantee of misery and shit conditions.
a_in_planes@reddit
Hello, thank you for your detailed reply. Here is mine:
1. when you mention that the president of Chile is a socialist and then talk about the outburst, it can lend to misinterpretation. That is why I pointed out the year. If you tell me that Piñera was center-right, I accept that his political campaign was presented that way but the parties that accompanied him in the coalition are also right-wing. Center economic policies carried out by Piñera? not many. Improvements in health, education or pensions for the elderly? We still expect them to come from this 'socialist president' who has basically maintained the status quo.
- If you had bad experiences with Chileans, I am sorry. From my experience and - having friends from the USA and Europe who are happy living here - I can tell you that when a foreigner approaches a Chilean in a kindly and friendly manner, we tend to be very open to forming new bonds. If we are not approached in this way, it is difficult to make Chilean friends.
- In the social outburst people of all ages took to the streets, not just 'young socialists'. There was a demonstration in October 2019 in Santiago, where almost 2 million people attended... of course according to you they were 'young socialists who wanted everything for free'.
-That you have lived 10 years in Chile makes you an expert, clearly, more than someone who has lived in this country for 40 years... nice that you have dual nationality and all, but clearly you don't know the reality of the average Chilean.
Greetings!
(PS. English is not my first language, I apologize for any errors in wording.)
MorningDangerous744@reddit
Never say sorry to a gringo for not speaking their language well. They most likely do not speak yours well either and yet they feel confident enough to think they can gringosplain your own country's politics...
worldisbraindead@reddit
I speak, read and write perfect Spanish. I lived in the country for 10 years. I have been married to a Chilean for more than 40+ years. Half my family lives in Chile. I wasn't a tourist who just got off a cruise ship demanding to be accommodated...but thanks for your incorrect presumptions.
MorningDangerous744@reddit
Still a gringo
worldisbraindead@reddit
As I pointed out to another person, I have been married into a Chilean family for 40+ years. I speak, read, and write Spanish at a very high level. Half my family lives in Chile and we discuss politics and current affairs in the country often. I've spent a lot of time there and have not only owned property there, but am currently a partner in a business there. Yes...I have a different point of view from most Chileans...I get that.
Here's a quick story that sums up a lot. Since you are a Chileano, you can probably relate to it and have probably experienced similar exchanges:
I needed to get some keys copied, so I went to a street in Santiago that has several hardware stores lined up one right next to another. I walk into the first hardware store that I came to and ask if I can get some keys copied. The shop owner barely looked up at me as though I was disturbing his quiet day and grunts a 'no' type response. Okay, I understand we all have bad days, but why treat a potential customer who may want to buy other things with a scowl on your face and an unfriendly grunt? I politely asked him if he knew a place where they copied keys. In a not-so-pleasant voice he barked that he didn't know and then turned and walked away.
When I walked out of his shop, I noticed the shop next door did keys. And, once I got my keys finished, I walked down the street and saw that there were several stores who have key service.
Now, maybe that one guy is an asshole or just had his wife scream at him or maybe I've just had bad luck. Those are certainly possibilities, but many people on my Chilean side of the family tell me that's not unusual. Chile is one of the few countries where this type of thing seems to be relatively commonplace. Having spent ten years living in Santiago, it's not like I was a tourist making selfish demands. I know the country well. I know many Chilean people well. And, because you are a Chilean and have lived in Chile for many years...deep down, you know my story is truthful.
blu3tu3sday@reddit
In the English speaking world, a “couple” = 2 so the person you’re replying to was wrong. Don’t apologize to them.
Noppo_and_Gonta@reddit
100%. People from a US focal point will hear "socialism" and think something completely different from reality (completely ignoring US helped install Pinochet...). Chileans know what works for them, that's why they vote the way they vote and also on the way they openly express disagreement. It's a stunning place, literally been scheming how to buy something there to stay or retire hah.
I also found Chileans to be super friendly with us as visitors, but like everything your experience will vary based on your own cultural perceptions and what happens during your trip.
Antuche@reddit
You are totally biased, and if you think that the social uprising was because the young socialists wanted everything for free, you know nothing about what it means to be Chilean or to live in Chile.
worldisbraindead@reddit
What don't I understand?
deepuw@reddit
As someone with dual citizenship and experience living both in South America and the USA, the issues you mention appear to be a YOU problem. Americans in general do not know how to open up and relate in a warmer culture like those you find south of the border.
I'm not sure what you mean by "not welcoming". I have been to Chile many times and our Chilean brothers and sisters are cool people. Funny accent in their Spanish, but we love them regardless.
And be careful with the mindset that the gringo recipe is the only way to run an economy. Remember that the USA needs cheaper labor abroad for the benefit of their own society. Don't go down to South America spreading your propaganda. Take the cheaper prices, the saner society, and don't try to impose your ways.. and no one will bug you.
worldisbraindead@reddit
Oh...you've got it all figured out.
I've spent almost ten years in Chile. I speak, read, and understand Spanish at a very high level. I have been married into a Chilean family for 40+ years. I've owned property in Chile and have ownership in an ongoing company there.
...but you're an expert. Got it. Glad you cleared that up.
blu3tu3sday@reddit
Spoken like a true Boomer
Ok_Ambassador9091@reddit
Nope. Spoken like a right wing shill.
That's an all ages thing.
smorkoid@reddit
They can ask their 24 hour news channel watching grandpa and get the same response
Noppo_and_Gonta@reddit
Paraguay is really safe depending where you go, some areas like Ciudad del Este can be sketchy for a foreigner. Same with Chile and other areas. If you are in Los Condes/Vitacura area in Santiago you'll be pretty okay following common sense precautions.
BobsyBoo@reddit
Thank you for your commentary on Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. I did not know that Uruguay had a good economy.
ApprehensiveStudy671@reddit
Mexico city is amazing. Also, Costa Rica for those who love outdoors.
rad_town_mayor@reddit
I lived in Paraguay 2004-2007 and had no safety issues. Like any country it depends on where you are. There are nice parts of Asunción. The food grew on me but no beaches or mountains.
worldisbraindead@reddit
Very true!
rad_town_mayor@reddit
Right, I’m in the US
Happy-Cantaloupe1120@reddit
I understand what you mean but you didn’t word it correctly
Chile is definitely not the economic engine of SA. It has a small economy compared to other countries, though it is per capita rich compared to other countries. Same goes for Uruguay.
And it did sound from your comment that you are blaming the “socialist government” for the riots that happened there. Which is not the case.
SisterActTori@reddit
I own a home in a beautiful, gated community on the coast of EC. We bought in 2018 before the current narco issues. I have never felt unsafe in EC and have traveled all over the country. Our daughter lives in a nice area of Guayaquil. Yes, there is petty crime that can affect all people, but certainly no worse than in any US big city. I know there is currently violent crime in EC that mainly affects targeted people. One good thing about EC is that it is on the US dollar which I think helps stabilize the monetary system. We did buy our home cash and the value is over the threshold for residency, so we are eligible for that. Plus we have a EC born grandchild that helps us as well. I am retired and by husband is of retirement age too. We will likely split our time between there and the US as we have another adult child still in the US.
rgdonaire@reddit
What’s EC sorry? Ecuador?
SisterActTori@reddit
Yes
Quagmire6969696969@reddit
You got Amy other parameters? Climate, food, culture, or something else? I hear Puerto Varas in Chile is nice, but maybe you prefer somewhere warmer or near the ocean.
No-Enthusiasm-3091@reddit
The big problem with Chile is that even if you speak Spanish, you will not be able to understand them. Chile is the hardest latam country to break into for that reason and by a mile. Colombia and Argentina are vastly more foreigner friendly and cheaper.
But let's be honest. Mexico is where tf it's at. Viva Mexico cabrones! ahuevo!!!!!!
Quagmire6969696969@reddit
I already know shushetumare, weon, and culiao (aside from actually speaking Spanish), I'm sure I'd be fine 😂👍🏼
Mexico is dope, I just ignored it bc OP said she doesn't like hot weather.
SeveralConcert@reddit
As a Chilean, I loved this
No-Enthusiasm-3091@reddit
Wat? Mexico has loads of cooler climates. A massive portion of Mexico sits above 7000 ft. It obviously has a massive coastal area so of course, a lot of warmer areas but it's a huge country with many climates.
Quagmire6969696969@reddit
Idk, the one time I went to CDMX (in December, btw) it was over 30C every day. Not sure if that's normal, but the fact that it gets above that in December suggests to me it's at least that hot in the summer, so possibly warmer than OP would like. The other cities I've been to, Guadalajara, Tijuana, and Monterrey, have all been even hotter.
To put this into perspective when comparing it to Bogota, the highest temperature ever in Bogota is 28.6C, and the daily average is 14.4C. When I was considering moving to Mexico a few years ago, I looked up the climates, and I don't recall anywhere that was that cool, especially year round (understandable given Bogota is close to the equator).
No-Enthusiasm-3091@reddit
Puebla stayed around 23c all summer. Medellin during my visit was much hotter.
Quagmire6969696969@reddit
Fair enough, I've never been to Puebla. Heard nice things, though.
Medellín is also notoriously hot and humid, Bogota isn't. Being up in the mountains keeps it cool year round.
kds1988@reddit
Lol Argentinian Spanish is nearly unrecognizable for the accent and slang for most Spanish speakers.
Happy-Cantaloupe1120@reddit
I learned Spanish in Chile
It’s not impossible
No-Enthusiasm-3091@reddit
You learned a variation of Spanish that is not nearly as applicable as other dialects in Chile.
geovs1986@reddit
Anywhere you go in Latin America, you'd learn a variation of Spanish. Argentinian Spanish has so many special expressions, at times even worse than Chilean. Same goes with Colombia. If you are referring to Bogota speaking is alright, but go to the coast and you'll see it's a totally different beast
No-Enthusiasm-3091@reddit
Same with Mexico! You're absolutely right. In Mexico we say "refresco" whereas in Colombia they say "gaseosa". In Mexico we say "aguacate" whereas in Argentina it's a bad word.
The difference with Chile is they use words that aren't in the Spanish language, what they use is a mixture of Spanish and like 3 different tribal languages, making it next to impossible to understand to outsiders. Most Spanish speakers have an easier time understanding Brasilieros than Chilis
geovs1986@reddit
Hmmm just FYI, in Paraguay (guaraní), Ecuador (Kichwa, Huaorani ) , Bolivia(Kichwa , Aymara) , Peru (Kichwa), they all use words that are not in Spanish language but are taken from native languages.
Although, as Spanish speakers, we love to say Chilean Spanish is not understandable, I think saying we'd understand Brazilian Portuguese better than Chilean Spanish is a bit of a stretch.
In any case, each experience is different, so it is not easy to generalize.
GeronimoDK@reddit
For me the hardest was by far Argentinian and Spanish-Spanish (and they have a ton of very different dialects in mainland Spain which just makes it even harder)!
I learned Spanish from a Bolivian from Santa Cruz, sounds a lot like Mexican but with different slang.
No-Enthusiasm-3091@reddit
Bro Castillian spanish and all those other iberian languages are nonsense. Overcomplicated their own stuff, much like the British and the English language. Chile is different though, google it, you'll see.
JYanezez@reddit
Puerto Varas is amazing. Prob. Cheaper than the USA/Canda but expensive compared to Chilean standards. You can live close by though.
idiskfla@reddit (OP)
Easy access to outdoors would be nice. Whether that’s beach, forest, or mountains.
Quagmire6969696969@reddit
Look up Puerto Varas on Google maps, then, might be a place you'd like.
idiskfla@reddit (OP)
Wow, that place looks beautiful.
tatertotski@reddit
Puerto Varas is incredible. Wonderful little town in an absolutely gorgeous part of Chile.
offficerdown@reddit
i second this! i’m moving to chile to be with my husband in january and we’ve chose puerto varas as well. i’ve become obsessed with it. access to lake llanquihue, three parks/national reserves in close distance for hiking, and if you wander around on google maps you’ll see how much there is to offer. lots of cool restaurants and cafes, adorable architecture, and you can enjoy how close the other cities are as well (frutillar, llanquihue, puerto montt for a bigger city)
i’d look into it :) it’s too cute
Sure-Fee1400@reddit
I've lived in Chile for the past 18 years, despite that I'd recommend Argentina if you have an income in dollars you can live very well. Another wonderful city is Punta Arenas in the south. Land and home prices have increased a lot on the past 10 years but it is still affordable. Many people, especially foreigners live in condominios a.k.a. gated communities. Chile has a great social health care system and great private care as well. My health insurance for a family of 4 is around $500 a month out of pocket. That includes everything but medicines. But meds are very cheap compared to the US. My 6 meds after a heart operation are about $60 a month but only one med is about 80% of that. Doctor's visits a $6 dollar copay or $60 if you go to the German Clinic, one of the best hospitals in all of Latam. I built the house for $60,000 US in 2006, it's now worth $400,000. I think it's really overvalued but that's the market. If you live outside of Santiago life is very good.
innovatekit@reddit
Wait so you living the good life but recommend Argentina? You painted Chile pretty well.
Sure-Fee1400@reddit
Yes, but I love Argentina. It's cheap and Argentinians are a lot more relaxed. Only that the politics and economy are both unstable. But with dollars you're golden.
idiskfla@reddit (OP)
Thank you
Representative_Bend3@reddit
Lots of great places in central Mexico. Easy to buy a house (you can’t by the beach but can in the mountains)
spicy_pierogi@reddit
There are mountains that run up to the beach. Foreigners cannot buy within a certain radius from the coast (whether it's a beach, cliffs, mountains, etc) and a different certain radius from the border.
Lexapro2000@reddit
Yes they can it just can’t be in their name. You can buy by establishing a company or something like that.
spicy_pierogi@reddit
You can "buy" but you will never fully outright own it. So no, you can't truly buy it.
Lexapro2000@reddit
You can truly buy it and you can own it by being the owner of a company/entity that owns it. Many people in the US also successfully own property in the names of companies.
spicy_pierogi@reddit
Not really. That's in the name of the company, not the individual. I know of people who do this and it's not under the same protections as Mexicans owning properties there.
We'll just have to agree to disagree at this point as we clearly have very different definitions of "direct ownership".
NYCfabwoman@reddit
It’s called a Fideicomiso. It’s one extra step you have to take to own property. It is a trust with the property owner as a beneficiary. However, if you buy a condo, you don’t need it.
spicy_pierogi@reddit
I know.
DJMoShekkels@reddit
Or just don’t do this. They passed that law for a reason
Lexapro2000@reddit
Mexico is nowhere on my radar for places in LATAM I would like to live
DJMoShekkels@reddit
Good then!
idiskfla@reddit (OP)
Oh interesting. Didn’t realize they only restricted foreigners from buying land in beach areas.
NYCfabwoman@reddit
You are not “restricted” per say. You just have to do one extra step and get a trust or fideicomiso. Of course you can buy ocean front land in mexico. Who do you think lives in all the horses by the coast????? Mexico is expat central.
Representative_Bend3@reddit
Yup. Kind of makes sense I guess. Lots of Americans have moved to Guanajuato and San Miguel etc. with all the car plants around makes going to and from the USA easy. Housing quite reasonable
Twarenotw@reddit
Regarding Mexico and property buying, it might be relevant to mention that there's a law restricting the purchase of property (by foreigners) within 50km of the coast and within 100km of national borders, although some foreigners do so through a trustee (fideicomiso).
NYCfabwoman@reddit
This is so common and not even cared about. It’s just part of the closing process. People on this sub seem to think owning property in mexico is rare. It’s all foreigners in mexico along the coast. Yucatán, cabo, Vallarta. And if you by a condo, you don’t need it.
inpapercooking@reddit
Mexico, owning a home gets you a visa if you are a US or Canadian citizen
idiskfla@reddit (OP)
Oh wow didn’t realize that
NYCfabwoman@reddit
I don’t know what that statement is implying. Everyone gets a 6 month visa on arrival. You can get temporary or permanent residency if you pass the income requirements. Owning a home has nothing to do with anything.
JYanezez@reddit
I can speak about Chile. I bought 5.000m2 for 12k EUR. Then you make a home. But it's not the big city.
atiaa11@reddit
Do you mean you bought land for €12k euros?
JYanezez@reddit
Yes, exactly that. Then my plan is to build a cabin or something
Noppo_and_Gonta@reddit
We're you in person when you bought? Or long distance? How did you feel about the process? Is it more difficult/expensive for a foreigner? Id love to buy there.
JYanezez@reddit
I didn't visit but my family is living close by. Also had two other friends buy in the same 'project'. But wherever you buy, make sure to take precautions or have a trusty person there.
Ok_Ambassador9091@reddit
What general area is it?
JYanezez@reddit
From Puerto Montt all the way to the very south end you can find ar that price. Mine is in Chiloé.
Mountain_Discount_94@reddit
Mexico.
Most of the rest of the big countries in LATAM have had too much political instability lately to risk it long term, you wouldn't want to have your place appropriated when the next coup happens.
Happy-Cantaloupe1120@reddit
You could say the same about the states
Mountain_Discount_94@reddit
he didn't ask about the states smart guy
Happy-Cantaloupe1120@reddit
Well he is leaving the states 🤷♂️
Mountain_Discount_94@reddit
The more you type, the more anyone that actually has followed LATAM can see you have no idea what you're talking about.
You should have stuck with your red herring arguments about the states rather than expose your true lack of knowledge.
Happy-Cantaloupe1120@reddit
Lol you’re laughable
iridescent-shimmer@reddit
Since you're from the US, I'd probably say Chile or Peru, since both are usually on very good terms with the US. Also, Ecuador uses the US dollar, so tons of retired Americans live in Cuenca with no exchange rates to deal with. Can't speak too much to their economy/government policies though when it comes to foreigners.
idiskfla@reddit (OP)
Yeah, Chile is really interesting to me based on what I’ve been reading.
iridescent-shimmer@reddit
I'd definitely read up on the history, but it is a geographically stunning country. I was so impressed by the subway system in Santiago. Much easier to navigate and felt cleaner than NYC even.
innovatekit@reddit
Can people comment on the WiFi speeds and infrastructure?
Jcmedia58@reddit
Peru!!!! tingo maria for cheap living , party life everyday and being in the jungle everyday. Imagine walking ten minuites out of a city and you have tucans, mini monkeys, waterfalls and caves with swimming. Check out tingo maria. People use motorcycles and moto taxis because its so hot. Its safe because its where the narcos sell/process coke and they’re very respectful of their community. So since theyre loaded they have no reason to rob you. 300 dollars monthly is livable wage there. The women are beautiful just dont marry them. Theres a german colony close by if you want to learn about history from ww2 and also meet german peruvian descent people. Theres many foreigners that purchase homes there. Check it out!
1ksassa@reddit
Well that's reassuring!
zerosdontcount@reddit
plus they have mini monkeys
Jcmedia58@reddit
well why do people rob and kill for pocketbooks in poor countries? because they’re broke and need to eat. Since theres that kind of money circulating. You’re okay.
Peelie5@reddit
I heard is the more costly country
Jcmedia58@reddit
depends where , its not too bad, peru is definitely very interesting. Number 1 culinary food in the world. People are business minded hard workers. I would live there. But where i stated earlier in my post is a very far remote hidden gem.
jtan80813999@reddit
Why don’t marry them?
SaladBarMonitor@reddit
After marriage they tend to let their bodies go
Jcmedia58@reddit
too promiscuous. The main liquor there is an aphrodisiac. The party life is insane. Its hard to have a relationship when the food and liquor is cheap and makes your horny and theres club and bars full everyday.
josetalking@reddit
Have you lived in Latin America? If you have not, I would recommend you to rent and try it out (don't just go 1 week and decide you love it, go for a year).
There are many subtle things that people from developed countries take for granted that Latin America just doesn't have.
Depending on your personality you might not even notice it or you might hate it. I will not come back to Latin America if it is under my control... ever.
Vegetable_Junior@reddit
Why? What were the things that put you off?
Recent-Start-7456@reddit
Got some examples?
josetalking@reddit
Personal security. No matter who says what, with very few exceptions when people say X place is very safe, they mean very say for latin america. Another way people say it is: "you have to know where you go to".
Social stability, all these countries go through cyclical crisis every few years.
Corruption, you don't only see it in the news, you also experience it when you want to do very basic things (it might be that you want to buy something, that you need to get some paperwork done, etc).
Basic services stability... have you experienced not having water service for a few days?
If you are going to work: very bad working conditions and income.
If you are a consumer: lack of choices.
I am writing this while playing fortnite, I am sure I can think of many more.
Before the messages about X, Y and Z places that are like Vienna. Sure... if you feel it is and it makes you happy :).
Happy-Cantaloupe1120@reddit
Chile has better crime stats than the states…
josetalking@reddit
Great... hope they maintain those stats.
SisterActTori@reddit
IDK, my GD attends an International (American) school in Latin America and my daughter is an administrator at that school (Pre-K through HS campus) and in the last 10 years there has not been a school shooting on that campus. The same can not be said for many schools in the US. Yes, petty theft is bad in many LA countries, and yes, there’s no affordable Amazon deliveries, so choices are limited. IDK about random violent crime though. TBT, RANDOM violent crime is pretty rare just about everywhere. The vast majority of violent crime victims are targeted for 1 reason or another-
josetalking@reddit
Glad you are happy with your experience.
Some points:
The same can be said about the vast majority of schools in the us. Though I get your point.
Violent crime is not rare everywhere. You just provided another sample of stuff people take for granted. There are many places in Latin America where random violent crime happens. Like getting shot to steal your phone.
SisterActTori@reddit
Is that common? Shooting for an IPhone? If so, a source (S), please. In most of these countries gun ownership is illegal. I’d venture there are far more guns and higher gun violence in the US.
josetalking@reddit
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_firearm-related_death_rate#%3A%7E%3Atext%3DBased_upon_various_metrics_alongside%2Cand_Venezuela_has_the_highest.?wprov=sfla1
I owe you the specific statistics about iPhone killing... but also statistics are not that broadly available (or trustable) in that region. Worth to also say that police can and is even worse than criminals.
I do not know about the laws in every single country or the guns ownership numbers. I can imagine the statistics are not good, a lot of people have them illegally, etc.
Btw I am not an US apologist. I don't live there, nor I am a citizen. I believe the US has a big problem with that. My original comment to OP is that if they are not familiar with life in Latin America they should give a try before doing something so big as buying a house.
I know people that are happy with that choice.
Side note: do you know what an "express kidnap" is? They take you randomly for a ride during 12-36 hours trying to squeeze as much money as possible quickly. That method has made the tour by several countries during the last 3 decades. Not fun. Not always ends 'well'.
josetalking@reddit
Btw hopefully you also realize that your family experienced a very privileged life in that place (just attending to those schools is usually out of reach for the vast majority of the population).
SisterActTori@reddit
Yes, for a local, this would be a privileged choice, but in reality for an American (it’s a consulate school) this is a garden variety, US, public school. Most of the students are from wealthy families, staff kids or US consulate employee kids.
josetalking@reddit
Sure, US diplomatic staff live in a bubble, but I bet the reality of the environment manage to permeate the bubble every now and then.
Still, honestly happy your family is doing well.
idiskfla@reddit (OP)
Not LATAM, but lived in Cambodia, Spain, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Originally from cambodia, so used to not having the developing country perks.
I’m used to corruption at this point, but biggest concern for me is safety, since walking alone late at night isn’t really a concern in the places I’ve lived in in Asia.
But this gives me a starting point, in terms of places to look at. Big challenge in some countries is it’s just really difficult for for foreign owners to own a small home with land (would like to get a dog so I’d like a yard) in many countries.
But would def spend a lot of time before actually buying anything. Appreciate your insight.
Judo_y_Milanesa@reddit
South argentina is absolutely beautiful. Look it up
feto_ingeniero@reddit
If you feel priced out in your country, remember that when you buy your house, you will be doing the same to the locals in the country where you want to benefit from.
Glittering_Split5079@reddit
It’s survival of the fittest these days ahah
UL_Paper@reddit
Paraguay is very safe and has the most stable economy in LatAm. But can be boring. Argentina is great and it's safe, but unpredictable future with a crazy economy.
Colombia is fantastic, but can be unsafe and unpredictable future.
Southern Brazil is fantastic and safe.
Happy-Cantaloupe1120@reddit
Paraguay has the most stable economy in latam? Stably poor?
UL_Paper@reddit
It's poor yes but low debt-to-GDP ratio, very low inflation and it's currency has remained strongly tied to the USD. The government is competent and conservative, so you'll experience less surprises there.
I love Colombia but if you purchase a home there, even if it goes up a lot in value - if you sell and take the USD out of Colombia you might experience a loss due to currency devaluation. Also moving funds into Colombia is huge hassle. Paraguay is much more simple to work with.
All things to consider when investing in a foreign country
DryDependent6854@reddit
Depends on where in Paraguay. When I visited Iguazu Falls in Argentina and Brazil, I was told by multiple locals that visiting Paraguay near the border was dangerous. Apparently it’s known locally for narco-traffickers.
Noppo_and_Gonta@reddit
Punta del Este is sketchy for foreigners, hella cheap electronics though! That's the Paraguay area at the tri-frontier where you visited Iguazu Falls. However, Asuncion has great safe places. I'd just avoid the tri-frontier area from the Paraguay side.
rad_town_mayor@reddit
I can add that there aren’t a lot of tourists in Paraguay. Not sure if you could pass as Latin American but I can’t and it was refreshing to be treated like person more than a tourist.
BLolo99@reddit
I’d argue Uruguay is the most stable economy in South America, and perhaps the safest also.
Argentina, specifically Buenos Aires, is getting a bit more dangerous due to their current economic crisis. But in years past, it was amazing.
Argentina4Ever@reddit
Uruguay is far more stable than Paraguay, indeed. More expensive too though.
Derman0524@reddit
As a Uruguayan, can confirm. Also, we have nice beaches and punta del este which a tourist destination for the celebs
MainEnAcier@reddit
I've read that Paraguay isn't that safe for buying home ( due to corruption with cadastre ) and their are hight level of robbery even in Hohenau or some remote cities.
What do you think about that ?
UL_Paper@reddit
I was in Paraguay last month and I don't own property and never have. But I spoke with other RE investors, spoke plenty with my local lawyer there.
Not sure about the robbery. Police are corrupt and generally useless so could be. But Asuncion felt super safe.
I think it's safe to buy property there. But you absolutely need to be on the ground and you should spend time to find a great attorney. Then hire a 2nd attorney to oversee the 1st guy's work. They are not expensive. Cheap reduction of risk.
Think Paraguay has great potential
args10@reddit
Not Chile?
UL_Paper@reddit
Never been so can't comment!
Qasim57@reddit
I’d be interested in Chile too.
From what I can tell, it’s going through a bitova economic downturn and migrant influx.
cardyet@reddit
Why not just rent somewhere, without family or being local, seems like a big risk to take on
blu3tu3sday@reddit
Why not just live 5 miles from everything and everyone you’ve ever met, while you’re at it?
Greedy_Leg_1208@reddit
Yes
Happy-Cantaloupe1120@reddit
People are typically interested in Panama / Costa Rica. Close to US, relatively cheap, good quality of life.
Uruguay and Chile are the most developed countries in LATAM. They are also more expensive than most LATAM countries.
Argentina should be very cheap right now and is very beautiful. You will live like a king there making money in US dollar.
lushlife_@reddit
Costa Rica is a top choice and should be much higher on this list. Strong community of US retirees.
BobsyBoo@reddit
I know El Salvador has gotten a lot more safe in recent years with their President Bukele. I think the country would be a great place to invest in with real estate. I visited there a few months ago and never felt endangered. They use the US Dollar, and to my knowledge, there are no restrictions on US citizens buying property there.
Like other Latin American countries, though, they do have a more authoritarian government that can be more restrictive on personal freedoms than what you may be used to in the US; I don’t think most people have to worry about having issues with this, though, unless you’re someone who likes to act afool. Also, I don’t think you’ll have to worry about anything crazy like the government taking your property away because you’re foreign, but I suppose it’s a possibility. Again, these issues aren’t really too applicable to worry about, but I wanted to mention them nonetheless.
anotherboringdj@reddit
Costa Rica
anotherboringdj@reddit
Costa Rica
eTransporter@reddit
There are so many incredible areas and regions in LATAM. Spend some more time in a rental each season in your preferred locations and get an idea what it’s like to live there and prosper.
Adanvangogh@reddit
I’m in the same boat as you! (Minus the divorce haha, sorry about that!) I’m trying to move to Mexico, Mexico City or Tulum. I think both are great options for foreigners. I’m getting to the point of desperation and almost wanted to start asking total strangers online to see if anyone wants or needs a roommate? Or maybe someone to look over their place ? Idk I def need to find a remote job asap and find a nice place to stay at for minimal rent. Trying to save as much as possible before I decide to actually buy a condo or house. Don’t want to come across as desperate but I lost my architectural job here in the states and finding a remote job within UX/UI has been a lot more difficult than expected. I found this real estate website very helpful , they have a guide on the process of buying property in Mexico , specifically in Tulum. https://www.tulumlandandproperty.com/landing/how-to-buy-real-estate-in-tulum-mexico
StriderKeni@reddit
If you enjoy outdoor activities. Definitely take a look at the south of Chile. Places like Puerto Varas, Frutillar, Osorno, Ensenada, Pucon, Punta Arenas, etc.
BigJack2023@reddit
Mexico because it's close and relatively stable.
taqtotheback@reddit
Use these recommendations from the chat and then visit to make sure you really do like it. I have seen people visit a place after hearing good things and then not enjoy it. In this way, you know exactly what you're getting from your potential future home.
cohenaj1941@reddit
Any info on panama? Similar climate to Columbia, Panama City is niceand safe, with lots of opportunities to airbnb for tourists if its a part time home. Also the house will be worth USD so its could be more stable vs currency changes.
I have also heard that if you are Panamanian you can buy with 10% down (which im considering, my spouse is Panamanian).
MainEnAcier@reddit
In Panama as far as I read, if you buy real estate for 300k USD you can get something like a life permit for living there.
I've made some research on Panama. It seems that insecurity lvl are "okay" and buying home isn't too risky. But the main problem I've found are those points:
-The panameans have scammers mentality. You can see in every Facebook group they are trying to scam all the time. -Areas that are livable are always close to the panamerica. -There are shortcut of water and sometimes electricity.
But to me, those aren't the reel main problems.
-There is no "middle real estate" it's Trump tower and place like that that cost 300k$, or it's shitty neighborhood like San Miguelito ( and the insecurity grow up there ) -Same for other good place like Boquete or el valle del Antón -Jobs are for panameans first ( that I think it's normal, Panama for panamean is smtg logic that Europe should apply too I think )
So, if you can't get a job remote, or can't buy a 300k$ real estate, what will you do ?
Maximum_Band_7492@reddit
I would say Columbia believes it or not. I know several Americans living there without complaints.
Mountain_Discount_94@reddit
[ ] ability to spell country name correctly
[ ] ability to give good advice on said country
igorpalych@reddit
Colombia*
Old-Razzmatazz1553@reddit
No
FloridaMan69ingurmom@reddit
I’m looking at property in the country side of Argentina. It’s so cheap out here and beautiful country.
Glittering_Split5079@reddit
My roasrito Mexico or Oaxaca mexico