Thread: building in Bocas

Anyone have any suggestions on builders to use, or not to use around Bocas?

Are there any builders or building companies that you are considering specifically? There's a few people in these forums who had homes built in Bocas; hopefully they can recommend builders to you.

Yea, I was considering Casa Depot

Is there anything like the Better Business Bureau in Panama? I always check with them before ordering a big job from a company in the US. I've never had to order a big job in Panama.

All I can add is to inspect the work they do very closely . Have a lawyer draw up a contract . And talk to as many people as you can on weather they were happy with the work this outfit did . You get what you pay for in Panama ,so be real careful . I have never heard of Casa Depot and I been in Bocas since 2001. Do you plan on being on site while the work is done ? You better be . Good luck cause your going to need it . Keep signed reciepts on everything . You may need them later . Where you building ??
It took me 3 years to get my place up but i built it myself . Its built right .There are a lot of scams going on so be super careful .
Tarzan

Scammers often target non-residents, because they know they are not savvy. Also, many see "gringos" as walking wallets.

Thanks Tarzan, Since I posted this my plans have changed. I got a little too excited and was wanting to buy some land move down, build, and buy a business at the same time. I think the smart move is to come down continue to research the business I'm looking into and rent a place for at least 6 months before I look at building or buying property. I may end up in the loony bin if I don't sell my properties here soon.

Originally Posted by coolandhot

I've never had to order a big job in Panama.

So who do you use when you need a small job done? A company that does a lot of building, or more free-lancers? What did you have built?

Cheers.

Originally Posted by usrookie

Thanks Tarzan, Since I posted this my plans have changed. I got a little too excited and was wanting to buy some land move down, build, and buy a business at the same time. I think the smart move is to come down continue to research the business I'm looking into and rent a place for at least 6 months before I look at building or buying property. I may end up in the loony bin if I don't sell my properties here soon.

Good luck with your business. I hope you get to build a place like you wanted to eventually.

Originally Posted by usrookie

Thanks Tarzan, Since I posted this my plans have changed. I got a little too excited and was wanting to buy some land move down, build, and buy a business at the same time. I think the smart move is to come down continue to research the business I'm looking into and rent a place for at least 6 months before I look at building or buying property. I may end up in the loony bin if I don't sell my properties here soon.

That is the smart way to do it ! A lot of people come here after selling everything in the states ,stay a few months and realize that they made a big mistake . Rent first !!!

"Rent first," is a good suggestion. Of course, if you decide to stay then you can buy when the money is worked out. When you're ready, owning is better than renting because your not losing money to the landlord.

I am looking for a few acres in Bocas. With a set of plans and some work, a bamboo house can be built fairly inexpensive. I am not sure of the building codes yet. Anyone??
Bamboo Island Homes : Why Bamboo