Why Renting First in Panama is the Smartest Move

Rick and Lakisha’s Journey Toward Finding Their Sweet Spot in Panama

One of the most common questions people have when moving to Panama is whether they should rent or buy a home right away. Rick and Lakisha’s story is the perfect example of why renting first gives you the freedom to explore, adjust, and find the place that truly feels like home.

After making the big move from the U.S. to Panama, Rick and Lakisha initially settled in Panama City. It’s a popular choice—modern conveniences, an international airport, excellent healthcare, and plenty of things to do. But after a year, they realized that while Panama City offered many perks, it didn’t quite match the lifestyle they were hoping to create.

So they packed up and moved to a community near the Coronado beach area to try something different.

And now? They’re already planning their next move in Panama—this time with a focus on finding a more authentic Panamanian experience, away from the expat-heavy towns.

Why Renting First is the Best Choice in Panama

Rick and Lakisha are living proof of the value of flexibility. When you first move to Panama, everything is new—culture, climate, community, and pace of life. It’s impossible to know exactly what will feel right until you experience it for yourself.

Here’s why renting first is the smart approach:

1. Freedom to Explore

Renting allows you to try out different areas—beaches, highlands, cities, and rural towns—without being tied down by property ownership. Rick and Lakisha quickly realized that what looks great online or during a short vacation isn’t always the right fit long-term.

2. Time to Understand Local Life

Each area of Panama offers a unique vibe. Some places are very North Americanized, while others provide a deeply local experience. Renting lets you explore at your own pace until you find that “sweet spot”—the community that feels just right.

3. No Pressure to Make a Permanent Decision

Buying a home in Panama involves legal, cultural, and logistical challenges. Renting gives you time to learn about the real estate market and the best neighborhoods without rushing into a commitment.

4. Lower Upfront Costs

Renting is far more affordable in the short term. Many rentals are fully furnished, which means you don’t have to worry about buying furniture or appliances right away.

Their Take on Panama City vs. Coronado

During our interview, Rick and Lakisha shared honest insights about living in both Panama City and the Coronado beach area.

Panama City Pros: Excellent healthcare access, restaurants, entertainment, and cosmopolitan energy. You can walk or Uber to everything – no car is needed.

Panama City Cons: Traffic, noise, higher cost of living, and a fast-paced lifestyle that didn’t match their long-term vision.

Coronado Pros: Beach proximity, expat community support, more relaxed pace, and better weather. They live in a “house with a pool” vs a condo in the City.

Coronado Cons: More expensive than living in the City. You need a car. No hospital. Still too “expat-centric” for their taste, they’re now seeking a more immersive Panamanian experience.

Their journey shows that even after months or years in one location, your preferences may shift—and renting gives you the freedom to pivot.

Healthcare in Panama: A Positive Experience

Rick and Lakisha were also impressed by Panama’s healthcare system. Whether in Panama City or the Coronado area, they had easy access to quality doctors, short wait times, and low out-of-pocket costs. They were especially grateful for the affordability of medications and the personalized care they received—something that can be hard to find back in the U.S.

Their experience reinforces what many expats discover: Panama offers excellent healthcare options at a fraction of the cost, which brings peace of mind as you settle into your new life.

Final Thoughts: Stay Flexible, Stay Open

Moving to Panama is an adventure—and like any great adventure, it’s best enjoyed with an open mind and a flexible plan. Rick and Lakisha are embracing the journey one step at a time, and their story is a valuable reminder that you don’t have to get it perfect on day one.

Rent first. Explore widely. And eventually, you’ll find your perfect place in paradise. Many foreigners choose not to buy in Panama because it offers them the flexibility to relocate anywhere on short notice.

🎥 Watch the full interview with Rick and Lakisha to hear their candid experiences and tips for anyone considering the move to Panama. (Embed video here)

Come See How You Can
LIVE BETTER for LESS in Panama!

Whether you’re just starting to explore Panama or already planning your move, we can help you discover the lifestyle that’s right for you:

🚍 Join an all-inclusive 6-Day, 7-night Panama Relocation Tour for a boots-on-the-ground experience in the most popular (and a few hidden gem) locations.

🧭 Book a Private Tour to focus on one specific area you’re interested in.

💻 Get instant access to the Online Panama Relocation Guide, packed with step-by-step instructions and trusted contacts to make your move easy and stress-free.

Let us help you discover how amazing life can be in Panama.

Since 2010, Panama Relocation Tours has helped thousands of people move to Panama the right way.

Panama Relocation Tours is the original relocation tour company in Panama, founded in 2010 by Jackie Lange. With a mission to simplify the process of moving to Panama, the company has helped thousands of people relocate the right way. Through its all-inclusive 6-day, 7-night tours and private, fully customized tours, Panama Relocation Tours gives future expats an in-depth look at what life is really like in Panama—without the pressure of a real estate sales pitch.

Panama Relocation Tours goes far beyond a vacation-style tour. Participants visit popular expat communities, meet with immigration lawyers, explore healthcare options, see rental properties, and connect with expats who have already made the move. Every tour is a “rolling seminar” designed to provide essential information about visas, cost of living, banking, buying a car, moving pets, and more.

For those who prefer to explore Panama on their own, the company also offers the Online Panama Relocation Guide, which includes step-by-step instructions and vetted contacts for every aspect of the move—from immigration and healthcare to real estate and insurance.

With over 300 successful all-inclusive tours completed and the prestigious TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award under its belt, Panama Relocation Tours is known for its unmatched after-tour support and trusted guidance that continues well after the tour ends.