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Welcome to episode #14 of RealtyCast Global – a global connection to all things real estate, hosted by Hugh Gilliam, president of Global Property Pros.

Can you really leverage perception to maximize your property investments in Central America? Join us as Michael Cobb unravels the secrets of investing in this dynamic region. We kick things off with a deep dive into the critical concept of "buyer beware," emphasizing the necessity of being well-informed before making any property purchases. Listen as we dissect the stark contrasts between property values in Costa Rica and Nicaragua, uncovering how perception often dictates price more than actual safety or quality. We share insights from the Overseas Investment Guide, demonstrating how knowledge gaps can create lucrative opportunities and why staying ahead of changing perceptions is essential for savvy investors.

Moving forward, we explore the nuanced landscape of investing in popular versus less popular Central American locations. Compare the immediate costs and long-term returns of investing in high-demand areas like Costa Rica with those of under-the-radar spots like Nicaragua. Discover why Belize, specifically Ambergris Caye, emerges as a balanced investment option with promising growth potential. We delve into the robust healthcare and educational systems that make Central America an attractive destination for families and remote workers. Whether you're contemplating a move or seeking to diversify your investment portfolio, this episode equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

Visit blog.realtyhive.com for more details on this episode.

About the guest - Michael Cobb:
Mr. Cobb transitioned from a successful tech career into Central American real estate. and co-founded Exotic Caye International (1996), offering loans to North Americans buying property across Belize and Honduras. The company transformed into an international bank in Belize, expanding services beyond mortgages. Recognizing a need for quality real estate catering to Baby Boomers, Cobb led into development, including an Ambergris Caye resort. They also bought beachfront property in Nicaragua (2000) and on the coastline in Costa Rica (2006). Mr. Cobb has spoken at global conferences, consulted for The Oxford Club, a

About the host - Hugh Gilliam:

Hugh Gilliam co-owned a national transportation company, created a land development business, and worked as a general contractor in residential and commercial construction for over two decades. Hugh also co-founded an international distribution company and successfully negotiated and contracted with 135 sales representatives in the United States, Canada, France, Brazil, Japan, and the Netherlands.

Today, Mr. Gilliam is affiliated with RealtyHive, LLC where he serves as Director of International Real Estate and President of Global Property Pros. His duties include involvement in commercial and residential transactions, plus promoting marketing systems and lead generation platforms.

For real estate professionals looking to take their business to the next level, check out Global Property Pros!

He is also co-founder of the luxury digital magazine, DOORWAYS INTERNATIONAL, powered by RealtyHive, which serves as a platform for Brokers and Buyers throughout 70 countries.

Hugh's Designations Include:

• Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist
• Certified Distressed Property Export
• Certified International Property Specialist
• Certified International Investment & Immigration Specialist
• Transnational Referral Certification

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Welcome to episode #13 of RealtyCast Global – a global connection to all things real estate, hosted by Hugh Gilliam, president of Global Property Pros.

Discover the evolving real estate landscape of Panama through an insightful conversation with Eric Van Hoorde, the past president of FIABCI Panama and owner of Van Hoorde Realty. Learn about how government incentives are attracting multinational companies to the region. We shed light on prime neighborhoods like Costa del Este and Santa Maria, ideal for high-return residential investments, and examine the growing appeal of beach and mountain regions for expats and retirees, influenced by remote work trends.

Considering a move to Panama? We delve into the nuances of purchasing property as a foreigner, including the benefits of the Permanent Residence for Qualified Investors visa. Eric explains how foreigners can buy property without needing a visa and the educational options for families, ranging from American and Panamanian to international schools, ensuring a seamless transition for expatriate children. Eric discusses diverse industries represented by over 140 multinational companies now operating in Panama, boosting its economic landscape.

The luxury real estate market takes center stage in our discussion of the Bioma project in Costa del Este; high-demand, amenity-packed apartments including terraces, high ceilings, and facilities like a two-star Michelin restaurant and a heliport. With 70% of units sold within ten months, Bioma represents a promising investment opportunity. We also address practical considerations such as maintenance fees and the absence of selling restrictions for non-residents.

About the Guest - Eric Van Hoorde:
With more than 24 years in the Real Estate sector of Panama, Eric has extensive experience both nationally, in unions, and in the private sector, and internationally representing Panama. He has a Master's Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance, as well as a Bachelor's degree in Economics and Finance from the University of South Florida. He also has various certifications from the NAR (National Association of Realtors, USA), such as CIPS, ABR, CRS, SRS, and was International Realtor of Year 2018, being the only Panamanian to have received this distinction.

About the host - Hugh Gilliam:

Hugh Gilliam co-owned a national transportation company, created a land development business, and worked as a general contractor in residential and commercial construction for over two decades. Hugh also co-founded an international distribution company and successfully negotiated and contracted with 135 sales representatives in the United States, Canada, France, Brazil, Japan, and the Netherlands.

Today, Mr. Gilliam is affiliated with RealtyHive, LLC where he serves as Director of International Real Estate and President of Global Property Pros. His duties include involvement in commercial and residential transactions, plus promoting marketing systems and lead generation platforms.

For real estate professionals looking to take their business to the next level, check out Global Property Pros!

He is also co-founder of the luxury digital magazine, DOORWAYS INTERNATIONAL, powered by RealtyHive, which serves as a platform for Brokers and Buyers throughout 70 countries.

Hugh's Designations Include:

• Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist
• Certified Distressed Property Export
• Certified International Property Specialist
• Certified International Investment & Immigration Specialist
• Transnational Referral Certification

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Welcome to episode #12 of RealtyCast Global – a global connection to all things real estate, hosted by Hugh Gilliam, president of Global Property Pros.

Unlock the secrets of Panamanian real estate with our distinguished guest, Arnulfo Arias of Navarro Guardia, who comes from a prominent political background and offers a wealth of knowledge from his post-dictatorship governmental role. Imagine navigating the burgeoning market of a country where the monumental Panama Canal shapes its global standing, and where legal and investment climates intertwine to create a unique landscape for property ownership. With Arnulfo's guidance, we explore the nuances of buying and owning property in Panama, from the security of the public registry system to the importance of working with licensed professionals. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's an educational journey tailored for potential investors and anyone fascinated by the allure of this strategic nation's real estate opportunities.

Embark on a masterclass of the Panamanian property transaction process, where we dissect each step with precision, illuminating the path from earnest money agreements to the sacred public deed of sale. If the thought of losing deposits or doubling down on earnest money sends shivers down your spine, fear not; Arnulfo's expertise highlights the safeguards and legal considerations that protect all parties involved. We then follow the journey of a property purchase through to the recording of the deed, underscoring the gravity of legal ownership and the financial wisdom of securing transactions. This is not just a podcast episode – it's a roadmap to confidently claiming your stake in Panama's vibrant real estate scene.

Visit blog.realtyhive.com for more details on this episode.

About the guest - Arnulfo Arias:
Mr. Arias’s legal practice focuses mainly on commercial and civil matters, plus taxation and government administrative issues. Corporate practice includes advising corporation structure, corporate governance issues, living wills, estate planning structures, and civil and commercial contracts in general.

Arnulfo is an activist in social and humanitarian programs, a writer and weekly columnist, and is heavily involved in politics by family tradition. His grandfather, Arnulfo Arias Madrid, was president of Panama on th

About the host - Hugh Gilliam:

Hugh Gilliam co-owned a national transportation company, created a land development business, and worked as a general contractor in residential and commercial construction for over two decades. Hugh also co-founded an international distribution company and successfully negotiated and contracted with 135 sales representatives in the United States, Canada, France, Brazil, Japan, and the Netherlands.

Today, Mr. Gilliam is affiliated with RealtyHive, LLC where he serves as Director of International Real Estate and President of Global Property Pros. His duties include involvement in commercial and residential transactions, plus promoting marketing systems and lead generation platforms.

For real estate professionals looking to take their business to the next level, check out Global Property Pros!

He is also co-founder of the luxury digital magazine, DOORWAYS INTERNATIONAL, powered by RealtyHive, which serves as a platform for Brokers and Buyers throughout 70 countries.

Hugh's Designations Include:

• Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist
• Certified Distressed Property Export
• Certified International Property Specialist
• Certified International Investment & Immigration Specialist
• Transnational Referral Certification