$0
Buyer commission. The seller pays our fee
1–1.5%
Typical attorney fee for buyers
2%
Transfer tax, customarily paid by the seller
EN · ES
Bilingual service in English and Spanish
Why Buyers Work With Us
In short: Buyers looking for property in Panama can work with a buyer’s agent offering bilingual service in English and Spanish, guidance on the purchase process and help choosing an area before a home. Buyer commission is $0 because the seller pays the agent; typical buyer attorney fees are 1–1.5%, while the 2% transfer tax is customarily paid by the seller.
Relocating to a new country is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming. When it comes to moving to Panama, finding the right real estate agent can make the difference between a smooth transition and a frustrating experience. That’s why I approach my role as a Realtor with one guiding principle:
“I treat every client the way I wish I had been treated when I came to Panama.”
I often say, "I wish I had a Ken when I came to Panama."
The first question everyone asks is what it costs to buy real estate in Panama. You will find the answer further down this page.
My mission is simple: to be the knowledgeable, honest, and reliable guide I never had. Here's what sets me apart and why working with me is the right choice when moving to Panama:
01
Client-First Approach: I Listen, I Care, I Deliver
When I first arrived in Panama, I encountered agents who were more interested in selling me what they wanted, not what I needed. The moment I said I wasn’t interested in their offering, they switched off—even though I was a serious buyer with cash in hand.
That experience shaped how I treat my clients. I take the time to understand your goals, needs, and budget. Whether you're looking for an investment, a family home, or a retirement retreat, I focus on helping you find the right property—not just any property.
02
Education Comes First
Buying real estate in Panama involves different laws, processes, and risks than many people are used to. That’s why I prioritize education. I’ll walk you through the buying process step-by-step, explain market trends, outline local customs, and make sure you’re making informed decisions every step of the way. Visit our Panama info guide for many resources
03
Find the Right Area First—Then the Right Home
One of the biggest mistakes people make is falling in love with a property before understanding the community it's in. I believe it's more important to love where you live than just what you live in.
Panama has diverse regions with very different vibes—from beach towns to mountain retreats to vibrant cities. I help you explore and get a real feel for an area before committing to a purchase. I’d rather work with you longer to make sure you’re happy than sell you something you’ll regret. Check out our Panama area guide to start your search for the right place
04
Planning Your Exit Before You Enter
Emotions run high when buying a home abroad—but emotional decisions can lead to overpaying and poor resale potential. I talk to clients early about exit strategies. Whether you plan to stay for 3 years or 30, buying smart (at or below market value) gives you flexibility and peace of mind if your plans ever change.
05
Access to a Trusted Professional Network
I’ve built a strong, reliable network of professionals that I trust completely. This includes:
Real estate attorneys, Builders and architects, Pet relocation specialists, Inspectors and contractors, Movers and logistics professionals
I’ll connect you with the right experts to make your transition as seamless as possible and help you avoid common pitfalls.
06
Family-Centered Guidance
More families are moving to Panama, and each has unique needs—especially regarding schools, safety, and community. Whether you're bringing toddlers or teenagers, I’ll guide you toward the best areas for family life, considering education, healthcare, and support systems.
> Canadians moving to Panama
> Americans moving to Panama
> UK citizens moving to Panama
07
Visa & Residency Navigation
Panama offers many visa options—but navigating them can be confusing. I listen carefully to each client’s background and connect you with the right immigration lawyer to match your situation. From Pensionado Visas to Friendly Nations Visas, I’ll help you understand the pros, cons, and requirements before you begin. Visit our Panama visa guide for more info on this
08
Understanding Legal Structures to Protect Your Assets
Many buyers in Panama aren’t familiar with legal structures like foundations, trusts, or corporations—but these can be critical tools for protecting your property, minimizing taxes, and simplifying estate planning. I help my clients understand these options and connect them to reputable legal professionals for tailored guidance.
09
Planning for Life’s “What Ifs”
Nobody likes to think about death, especially when embarking on a new adventure. But estate planning is crucial—especially when owning property in a foreign country. I make sure we have open, honest conversations about how to structure your purchase and your estate in case something unexpected happens.
10
Local Product & Brand Guidance
From appliances to furniture, buying the right brands and finding the right stores in Panama can be a learning curve. I help my clients avoid costly trial-and-error by offering insights into reliable local and international brands, where to buy them, and what to expect in terms of quality and pricing.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Panama should be a thrilling, rewarding chapter in your life—not a stressful one. As your Realtor, I’m here to guide you with honesty, patience, and real experience. My goal is not just to help you buy a home—but to make sure you’re happy living in it.
If you’re thinking about relocating to Panama, let’s talk. I’ll help you make the transition with confidence, clarity, and the care you deserve.
What It Costs You to Work With Us
Nothing. In Panama, buyers do not pay a commission to their real estate agent. Our fee is paid by the seller from the sale, so our help finding, negotiating and closing on your property costs you nothing.
The Costs You Do Pay as a Buyer
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Your attorney's fees, typically about 1% to 1.5% of the purchase price, for due diligence, contracts and closing.
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Small notary fees for signing the deed.
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Public Registry fees to register the property in your name.
The 2% transfer tax is customarily paid by the seller. We'll give you an estimate of your closing costs before you make an offer, so there are no surprises. Read our step-by-step guide to buying in Panama for the full process.
Where We Work
Our team covers Panama's most popular areas for international buyers. Explore each area's listings and guide:
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Pedasí and Playa Venao on the Azuero Peninsula
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Boquete in the Chiriquí highlands, where our agents live and work
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Coronado, San Carlos and Chame on the Pacific coast
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Panamá Pacífico, just outside the capital
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Panama City and historic Casco Viejo
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Bocas del Toro on the Caribbean
We work in English and Spanish. Meet our team.
Your Panama adventure starts here
Finding your dream property in Panama starts here
At Panama Properties, we tailor every real estate experience to meet your unique goals.
Our team takes the time to understand exactly what you’re looking for — your preferred location, lifestyle, and budget — so we can find the property that’s right for you.
To get started, we just need a few details from you. Let’s begin your property journey in Panama together.
Next Steps - The Home Buying Process
Buying a home in Panama can be a complex process, but our team of experienced professionals is here to guide, support, and advise you at every step. Below is a concise overview of the home-buying process in Panama to help you understand what to expect.
Fall in love with an area 1st
1. Find the right area - then find the right home
One of the biggest mistakes new buyers make is falling in love with a property before understanding the community and climate.
Panama offers everything from tropical beaches to cool mountain retreats, and each region has its own rhythm, weather, and culture.
Ask yourself:
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Do you prefer the ocean breeze or the mountain mist?
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Is year-round heat comfortable for you?
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Are you close enough to schools, hospitals, and grocery stores
If you have figured out where you want to be in Panama then we step in and help you find the ideal home or land
Most of the properties in Panama are purchased with Cash
2. Research and Plan Your Budget
Most property purchases in Panama are completed with readily available funds, so understanding your budget and available resources is an essential first step.
For international buyers who want extra support, we can connect you with trusted local specialists to help make the process clear, smooth, and reassuring — with guidance that feels familiar from home.
The more we know the more we can help
3. Fill out our client question form
Please complete our client questionnaire with as much detail as possible. This information allows us to identify properties that best match your needs, budget, and other preferences. By understanding your goals, we can work together as a team to develop a personalized plan and guide you toward the ideal property in Panama.
Check out our quality listings in the most popular expat areas of Panama
4. Start searching to find your dream property
Explore our diverse property listings, featuring everything from affordable homes and luxury beachfront estates to building lots and farms, all located in Panama’s most popular expat destinations. By letting us know the types of properties that interest you, we can narrow the search to match your preferences. And if we don’t currently have what you’re looking for, don’t worry — our extensive network of partner agents across Panama can help us find exactly the property you want.
Reviews From Our Clients
Christopher Scott
Ken’s a straight shooting Expert on Pedasi Real Estate! Got our property listed & under contract within 2 months. Always available even with us here in the US, and connected us with key folks in Panama to ensure the process flowed smoothly.
Susan Pressley
I highly recommend Ken Norton with Panama Properties to anyone thinking about moving to Panama. Ken goes above and beyond to accommodate your needs, concerns, questions, etc.
I'm so happy I found Ken to help me with the purchase of my new home in Pedasi!
Robin White
I had found property in Pedasi that I wished to purchase so I searched for a real estate agent. I had already returned to the US and consider myself extremely lucky to have found Ken Norton! He is a very professional, trustworthy, reliable, knowledgeable agent who pretty much held my hand through the entire process. With his guidance and advice I was confident and comfortable making the transaction from the US. Any questions I had he made sure to answer promptly and with excellent communication. I now own my dream lot with plans of building my dream home! Would not have accomplished this without Ken!!!! He was a god send!
Philip Webb
Ken Norton of Panama-Properties has helped us and several of our neighbors with our real estate needs. He is very up to date on the current market and area. We are extremely pleased with his service and expertise. Philip and Rose
Ryan Tucker
I have worked with Ken @ Panama Properties for several months about different properties. His service is remarkable. All my questions were answered in a timely manner and with exceptional professionalism. I highly recommend him and this company for your realty needs.
Ileana Ravasio
Ken went above and beyond to help us find our future home in Pedasi. Thanks to him we fell in love with Panama before visiting the country!
Ken is professional, kind and extremely knowledgable. He has an amazing and hard to find balanced approach of professional real estate agent skills combined with honesty, care and real interest in customer satisfaction.
I would strongly recommend hiring Ken to anyone looking to buy a home. Not only will they help you buy your dream home, they will treat you like a close friend or a family member that truly cares.
Ileana
Stephanie Carpenter
Had a wonderful experience with this company and it's agent Ken. He is knowledgeable, helpful, patient and he is there to find you the property that is perfect for you.
Jean Bouvier
A team of professionals with great customer service. They answered all our questions and expectations. Great knowledge of the region.