The COVID pandemic continued to plague the global economy in early 2021, providing challenges and opportunities in Panama real estate. As markets began to reopen, sales and rents in Panama increased as buyers saw the country’s established market as a safe haven in turbulent times.
As the year draws to a close, let’s take a step back and highlight the big news of 2021.
The American Alternative.
With home prices rising in the U.S., investors were looking for property investments that could provide real growth in the coming years. Panama was once again seen as a great alternative, providing stability, a dollar economy and high-quality properties below their market value and replacement cost.
The Rise of Crypt.
Cryptocurrencies have begun to play a role in sales as more owners have expressed a willingness to accept bitcoin and other forms of crypto. It is no longer a theoretical concept, it is clear that crypto will play a more important role in the future. The government is also investigating legislation that would make cryptocurrency an accepted currency and create a regulatory framework for transactions.
Ocean Reef thrives.
This was the year when the man-made islands in the Gulf of Panama took their place among the most successful in the world. Sales were on fire, with Beach Club Residences, Seascape, Almar, Waterfront 21, and Casa del Mar joining the list of sold-out developments. Construction has also advanced on the key infrastructure, with Panama City’s marina and the largest water sports club opening for business.
Rental Bounce.
Vacancy rates jumped and rates slipped at the height of the pandemic. That all changed in 2021. PPR’s property management department has seen occupancy rates rise to more than 95% and rental rates have steadily increased. There was a clear flight to quality, as apartments in upper buildings attracted competition. During the year, PPR’s property management department added 75 units under management as more investors turned to our trusted professional team to take care of their investment property.
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Declining Stock.
The pandemic has promoted the cancellation or postponement of an unprecedented number of developments. In 2021, there were almost no new projects launched and banks were reluctant to finance new construction loans. As a result, there was an increase in sales and absorption of unsold developer inventory, plus resale apartments that were long on the market ultimately sold. The decline in supply will have a profound impact on the market – and prices – going forward.
Wholesale Sales Soar.
Investors have increasingly focused on already rented condominium portfolios in the buildings with the highest rental demand, such as Ocean Club in Punta Pacifica, Yoo Panama on Avenida Balboa, and the Regent in Costa del Este. Investors usually bought packages of 5 to 15 units of rented apartments in these popular buildings, generating cash flow from day one. These wholesale buyers focused on buildings with unique amenities and high demand from multinational executives.
Main Developments Near End.
Construction has continued on some of the most widely anticipated developments in Panama City. The list includes the Wanders & Yoo downtown, the La Maison de Fendi Casa in Santa Maria, and the Beach Club Residences on Ocean Reef. In many cases, buyers who have purchased units at pre-construction prices are about to realize significant increases when the buildings are finished and relocations begin.
New Visa Rules.
Panama has established a new “Golden Visa” rule providing a way to housing for property buyers, a huge advantage in the international market. The visa was a big step forward and was one of the most discussed topics among PPR clients. The government has also implemented a new “digital nomadic” visa making it easier for remote workers to set up operations in Panama. Both policies have strengthened Panama’s image as one of the most welcoming countries in the world for international real estate buyers.
All these trends of 2021 should cross into the new year. If anything, they are likely to grow as the pandemic continues to fade and markets return to normal. With all these factors in place – and the economy expected to grow significantly – next year is set to be one of the best in the history of the Panama market.
Watch this space for more information on that. Stay tuned to Feeta Blog for the latest updates about Pakistan Real estate.
