Thanks to the surge and diverse nature of businesses in Panama, coupled with its appealing economic steadiness, a significant number of entrepreneurs have turned their attention to the real estate sector in recent years. The wide range of available properties and the lucrative potential of their transactions present some of the most enticing reasons for an entrepreneur in United Kingdom to dive into real estate.
Yet, for those aspiring to become a property agent and achieve success in this field, staying updated with the latest developments in the property market in Panama is highly recommended.
What is a real estate agent?
A real estate agent is a professional specializing in the real estate sector who is in charge of intermediating in the purchase, sale, and rental of properties. Its main function is to connect buyers and sellers, providing personalized advice and managing all the legal and bureaucratic procedures involved in a real estate transaction.
Essential Criteria for United Kingdom Citizens to Become a Real Estate Agent in Panama
As with any position in the financial and real estate industries, becoming a real estate agent in Panama requires submitting a variety of documents and adhering to the legal steps. The necessary qualifications include:
- Complete required 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 potential negligence claims and governmental penalties.
- Submit a power of attorney and legal request via a lawyer, duly notarized, along with a legal form.
- Provide proof of Panamanian citizenship, or if foreign, evidence of at least 5 years of residency.
- Make an annual payment of twenty-five (USD 25) U.S. dollars for Stamp Taxes.
- Submit documentation certifying no criminal record.
Being a real estate agent in Panama: discover some of its benefits
Being a real estate agent and working in the wide real estate market in Panama means being in constant movement and informing yourself about all possible property transactions and deals with buyers. Likewise, there are some benefits that you can take into account in your preparation as a real estate agent in Panamanian territory. These are:
- Strategic location: Positioned in Central America, Panama enjoys a favorable location, drawing international investors and buyers. As a real estate agent here, you’ll have access to a global client base, aiding in cross-border transactions.
- Tax reduction: This is often a preferred advantage for agents due to the financial relief it provides. For instance, purchasing property with a cadastral value under $120,000 exempts you from paying property taxes, as per Law 66 of 2017. Moreover, properties appraised up to $120,000 are not subject to real estate taxes, those valued between $120,001 and $700,000 incur a tax rate of 0.5%, and properties surpassing $700,000 are taxed at a rate of 0.7% of their cadastral value.
- Expanding real estate market: The real estate market has experienced significant growth in recent years, providing agents with opportunities to advance rapidly within the industry.
- Residency permit opportunity as an investor: Real estate investors can benefit from the real estate investment visa program. By making a qualifying real estate investment that adheres to national legal standards, investors may apply for and secure residency.
Legal Solutions Panama: Specialists in Legal Guidance for Establishing Your Business as a Real Estate Agent
To make a remarkable entry into the real estate market, it’s crucial to have a company set up specifically for this purpose. If you have a budding project and wish to thrive in the real estate field, seeking the assistance of experts can be a strategic move in establishing your business. In this regard, Legal Solutions Panama is a renowned firm that specializes in launching businesses in Panama.
Thanks to its extensive experience, the Legal Solutions team can advise you on the incorporation of your company. Their experience will help you to carry out all the procedures correctly, without unforeseen events, and with the certainty of a successful opening.
For more information on their services, feel free to visit their webpage and take advantage of a complimentary thirty-minute consultation with one of their experts.