International Forum... Paul McBride

International Forum…Paul McBride

Paul McBride is with Prima Panama. He has a very unique business model which we will discuss in a later blog. This blog will only deal with his presentation at the forum.

Paul’s company wanted to know who there clients were so they sent out a survey by email with 85 questions. They got 600 responses. This is some of what they learned.

Most of the buyers came from referrals either from a friend or someone who had responded to an advertisement.

Most buyers do 3 to 5 years research before they buy. They want lots of information.

The types of purchases they make are: A primary residence or a 2nd home. Many buy for rental now with the idea of a personal use property later. Buyer’s need to know the selling process.

The reasons for purchase are:
Costs of living
Weather (typically warmer)
Proximity to their home market
Taxes
Be around friend & other foreigners

Broker & Attorney very important for foreign buyers, they need to have relationships with others in the transaction.

Transfer Tax vs. Capital Gains
2% transfer tax paid by seller
Corporate transfer no transfer tax
Capital Gain in US less any tax paid in Panama.


David Segrest is a REALTOR in Charlotte NC. His website is http:www.segrestrealty.com .