LarryJohnsonPR
American expat in Puerto Rico
Forum posts
63
Contacts
20
About me
American
Lives in Camuy
Speaks English, Spanish
Registration: 08 August 2017
Searching for Real Estate Title Insurance For Home Purchase in PR by garciahanner
I am from California and looking to buy a home in Southeast Puerto Rico. I am researching title insurance companies but do not find any of the title companies I am familiar with, physically located on the island. Otherwise I have to use a Fidelity ...
Hi Arlene,I'm a mortgage professional here on the island and we utilize Title Security Group for all of our title needs. You can reach out to them at ***hit ext262 .Hope this helps. Read More
Looking for a bank account that can be set up from the states by jillmedina
I am trying to establish a bank account in PR that would allow us to have visa and most importantly ATH access. Has anyone been able to set up an account while being physically in the states? We will not be on the island for apx 2 more months.
If you are trying to set up the account from the states, I reccomend Pentagon Federal Credit Union ( PenFed). Very fast and easy. Once you are on the island they have a few branches if you need cashier's checks (free of charge) etc and one ... Read More
Where to look for English-Only Employment in PR by Capoise32
Hola! I'm Suzanna from the mainland USA. I've traveled to over 30 countries and PR is by far one of my favorite places to visit. PR literally feels like home to me. So much so that I'm interested in moving there next month. I'll be ...
With the skills and background you have I don't think you'll have to much of a problem landing some form of employment. The question will probably be more about what type of income structure you can live comfortably with. Be sure to ... Read More
Where to look for English-Only Employment in PR by Capoise32
Hola! I'm Suzanna from the mainland USA. I've traveled to over 30 countries and PR is by far one of my favorite places to visit. PR literally feels like home to me. So much so that I'm interested in moving there next month. I'll be ...
Hi there, Ultimately I think it depends on the type of job you are looking for and what your background is. When I moved her 6 years ago ( also from Denver) I was in a similar boat as I knew very little Spanish. I think USA jobs would be a good ... Read More
Building Homes in PR by Live2sparkle
I have seen a few posts from people who have built a house or will build a house on the island. Rey, I know you have a beautiful lot that you posted a photo of. And a few others, whose names escape me at the moment, have mentioned building. I am ...
Out of curiosity which company quoted you. That seems a bit high but depends on the products included with the quote. Does that include a servicing of the equipment, extended warranties etc. Was this a full off grid solution or grid tied with ... Read More
mortgage on average to get approved in Puerto Rico by Claudid
Hi I鈥檝e been waiting on getting approval of a bank mortgage for a condo from a major bank in Puerto Rico since mid-November. My question is, how long on average does it take to get approval in Puerto Rico? I over heard one person in Luquiilo ...
In an ideal situation on avg it shouldn't take more than 45-60 days for condo financing but there are a number of factors that come into play. I'll list a few of them here. 1. Communication between the bank and the condo administration ... Read More
considering building a casita (small home) as an investment property by rambla
I am seriously considering having a casita (small home) built to use as an investment property. Although I live on the island, having a home built is all new to me. I am curious what is the ballpark cost for building a small 600-700 sq. ft. 2 ...
Hi there.. I hope all is well!! I haven't personally contacted this company yet but you may want to check these guys out: http://ecoprecastpr.com I saw a small unit on their website that closely fits what you are looking for at 41K. Their ... Read More
Opportunity Zone / Construction Tax / Etc by nikandjen
Hi I purchased a house in PR last year and planning on major renovations to start end of the summer. I've been reading on the Opportunity Zone Laws recently implemented and the additional local laws PR has been trying to pass or already passed ...
You can also get in contact with a representative at Invest Puerto Rico ( www.businessinpuertorico.com). This organization has been assigned by the current administration to essentially promote all of the various incentives available to potential ... Read More
surveyor needed in vieques by solgirl
HI Everyone, I need a surveyor for my vieques property to measure metes and bounds. It seems very difficult to find someone to do the surveying so I can build a fence around our lot. Any ideas anyone please ? Thank you :)
Just pm'd you a contact that should be able to help. Read More
Isabella Home Inspector by laalinda
we are looking to purchase in Isabela area and i'm not sure how it works to hire a home inspector. would the inspector spend the day with us checking out houses? and if so, how much does that cost?
There are inspectors available but it's best to select a house that you are interested in first and have a passing inspection be a contingency on the purchase contract. Note most properties are sold as is so don't expect a seller to fix ... Read More
Can anyone explain options on island property? by DocRob
I know on the mainland if you want to option a property, it usually involves placing an amount of money on the table and contracting that you will buy it in such and such time and amount. If you don't exercise the option, you forfeit the ...
there really is not a minimum amount of time required to be on island to qualify. The credit qualifying process here is basically identical to what you would see in the states with the exception being if you are married both would need to be on the ... Read More
Can anyone explain options on island property? by DocRob
I know on the mainland if you want to option a property, it usually involves placing an amount of money on the table and contracting that you will buy it in such and such time and amount. If you don't exercise the option, you forfeit the ...
Yes crim can go back up to 5 years for back taxes or assess a new value after a closing (for repairs improvements etc) that potentially could create a new lien if left unpaid. The "when" just really depends. If obtaining a mortgage ... Read More
Furniture stores that deliver? by annabfalter
Hi, Has anyone had experience with furniture stores that deliver to the Guanica area on the main island? I am looking for a futon and a couple of beds, but we don't currently have a vehicle capable of hauling these items. I know there are ...
We have gone through IKEA. They deliver islandwide but it does take time to receive your orders from them...id expect a min of 2 weeks. Read More
Can anyone explain options on island property? by DocRob
I know on the mainland if you want to option a property, it usually involves placing an amount of money on the table and contracting that you will buy it in such and such time and amount. If you don't exercise the option, you forfeit the ...
When you say "appraisals" Im assuming you mean for property tax assessment correct? If so the answer is a bit complex. There is only one dept, CRIM, that handles it, however each municipality has its own factor (or multiplier) used to ... Read More
Can anyone explain options on island property? by DocRob
I know on the mainland if you want to option a property, it usually involves placing an amount of money on the table and contracting that you will buy it in such and such time and amount. If you don't exercise the option, you forfeit the ...
Im a local mtg lender here on the island and can address a few of your questions. Title companies here do typically have their own in house attorneys however do note that title companies operate a bit differently in PR than in the states. Its ... Read More
Working in PR as a non Spanish speaker by chelsigo
I want to move to PR this winter (probably Rincon?), but am worried about finding work. I currently live in the US and make a living in illustration and design. I do have some Spanish skills, but my speaking abilities aren't there. I have years ...
Chelsigo, im a firm believer of the old saying " where there is a will there is a way" when we decided to move to PR just over 4 years ago i had the same concerns that you do now about employment. I had very limited Spanish language ... Read More
Can I realistically make my dream a reality? by Ajgreene
Hello all... New member here... I'll get straight to it. I really want to be in Puerto Rico. I love everything about it. I actually just got back from a long weekend trip there yesterday (this is not a hangover post though). I speak no Spanish ...
Hi There, I just wanted to give you some perspective as our real life journey to living here in PR has taken a path almost identical to what you are dreaming and hoping for. We also relocated here from Denver and prior to coming, i could not speak ... Read More
Driver's License & Shipping 1989 Car by ColoradoMermaid
Hello -- My husband and I recently purchased a lot in Rincon. We will be moving permanently over to the island in the next month or two to be there while home construction is going on -- 1) Driver's licenses - we both have valid licenses from ...
Hi There.. We moved here to PR from Colorado as well. I would reccomend retaining your CO drivers license and then getting a PR ID once you are settled. We shipped our car here as well with an independent company to get it to San Juan. Are you ... Read More
Dating options in PR? by Oxmarqt
First off...Hello. At some point in the next few years I would like to purchase a 2nd home/Condo/whatever in Puerto Rico that will eventually become a main home. I prefer the West half of the Island but not locked into anything. I am currently ...
I will speak from personal experience with this..it may not hurt for you to venture online.. I met my now wife (and soul mate ) while living in Denver and she was here in Puerto Rico.. I'm glad you brought this topic up, because many people ... Read More
Just Brought a House in Boqueron by dejahre
GET A GOOD BANK AND LAWYER FIRST!! My wife and I just purchased a house in Boquer贸n, Cabo Rojo. PR. We currently live in the Washington DC area but have also lived in Venezuela and Mexico. We are both retiring again and picked PR at the advice ...
I think the costs overall are similar with the exception of the recording fees here in PR and (depending on the state one resides in ) the attorney's fees). In the states recording fees for the most part are based on the # of pages of the ... Read More
Just Brought a House in Boqueron by dejahre
GET A GOOD BANK AND LAWYER FIRST!! My wife and I just purchased a house in Boquer贸n, Cabo Rojo. PR. We currently live in the Washington DC area but have also lived in Venezuela and Mexico. We are both retiring again and picked PR at the advice ...
Its standard in most cases for the seller to pay but its not mandatory. For example when buying a bank owned property it is very common for the bank (ie seller) not to cover any attorney's fees. I've also seen cases where buyer and seller ... Read More
Can anyone recommend a realtor?
You can also reach out to Raul Villanueva of REMax 787 309 5233 via text or email at <raulv33[at]yahoo.com> Read More
Need for AWD? by jellojello
Hello everyone. My wife and I just moved to PR this past week, and are in the process of getting settled. We are looking to purchase a Honda CRV, and surprisingly to us, the dealerships don't have any AWD in stock. We were told by the ...
If you are looking to explore, i would for sure seek something that at least has an option to switch to 4x4. You never know when a heavy rain may come and if you are in a place w/o a paved road it could muddy up quickly. Read More
Housing in Rincon Area by ashyfay02
Hello all! My names Ashley and I currently live in Loveland, Colorado but will be moving to Rincon area in late September/early October of 2018! I am very excited and cannot wait to meet new people and experience all the beauty Puerto Rico has to ...
Hi Ashley, I moved here to PR 4 years ago from Denver and would always stop in Loveland on the way to Ft. Collins I'm sure you will love it here!!....one good contact you can reach out to for rentals in Rincon is Jennifer Lopez at tropical ... Read More
Is it rude to refuse to speak english? by sontek
Hey! The primary reason for us wanting to move to Puerto Rico is for our kids to grow up bilingual. We are currently on the island and are going out of our way to eat at restaurants and practice our spanish as much as possible. Our issue is ...
Give it a little time. You will start to become a regular in your area and locals will know you aren't a tourist just passing by. I spend most of my time in a smaller neighborhood in Camuy where many don't speak English so it was a must to ... Read More
How to deal on property by annabfalter
We are again looking at properties in the southwest. Many of them seem to be way overpriced based on location and condition. Is there any way to look up sales information on comparable properties that have recently sold? I don鈥檛 want to ...
I would say it depends on who you ask. By the book it should be living space here as well but it depends on who's book you go by. There really is no rhyme or reason on how to accurately assess value here and until the MLS is accurately used ... Read More
How to deal on property by annabfalter
We are again looking at properties in the southwest. Many of them seem to be way overpriced based on location and condition. Is there any way to look up sales information on comparable properties that have recently sold? I don鈥檛 want to ...
You can try setting up an account on the following site: www.tasamax.com It's in Spanish however your browser should allow you to translate. This site takes into account financed transactions and in some cases even includes a copy of the ... Read More
Closing a home purchase by tymrtn
Hey there, My wife and I are trying to close on a property in Condado. Unfortunately we're not act20/22 investors with millions of $, so we also have to get financing. So far we've had some promising progress. Our lawyer indicates that we ...
Yes, that is correct. The bank will always handle the appraisal piece of the process. I have had cases where a seller has had an outside appraisal done to help in determining the list price, but since you are financing the purchase I would not ... Read More
A Different Perspective of Living In PR by chrishamrick103
Hey everyone, it's been a long time! I spent about 22K moving my family of 5 to the island in December 2016. We had an awful experience overall and one morning, something just told me to leave the island and I did.... then the hurricanes hit. ...
Interesting topic here.... chrishamrick103, i'm sorry for some of the experiences you had while here on the island and more important how they made you feel.. I think any time one is in a transitional period in a place that is foreign to them ... Read More
Closing a home purchase by tymrtn
Hey there, My wife and I are trying to close on a property in Condado. Unfortunately we're not act20/22 investors with millions of $, so we also have to get financing. So far we've had some promising progress. Our lawyer indicates that we ...
Thanks for your kind words..I'm always glad to help on topics I have a bit of knowledge on. Sometimes for people new to the island it can be difficult to find answers beyond the familiar phrase of "that's just the way it is here in ... Read More
Closing a home purchase by tymrtn
Hey there, My wife and I are trying to close on a property in Condado. Unfortunately we're not act20/22 investors with millions of $, so we also have to get financing. So far we've had some promising progress. Our lawyer indicates that we ...
In my experience most properties sold here in PR are "as is". It's always good to have an inspection for your own personal peace of mind but very seldom are they used as a means for termination of the contract. As for appliances, ... Read More
Closing a home purchase by tymrtn
Hey there, My wife and I are trying to close on a property in Condado. Unfortunately we're not act20/22 investors with millions of $, so we also have to get financing. So far we've had some promising progress. Our lawyer indicates that we ...
This is where a good real estate attorney comes in very handy as ultimately it is their responsibility to do this for you. The exemption comes into play every January. So if you close on a property prior to January, primary home or not, you are ... Read More
Closing a home purchase by tymrtn
Hey there, My wife and I are trying to close on a property in Condado. Unfortunately we're not act20/22 investors with millions of $, so we also have to get financing. So far we've had some promising progress. Our lawyer indicates that we ...
I simply meant they are low cost. Plus if the buyer will be occupying the property as a primary home they are provided an exemption from CRIM up to a certain amount. The exemption generally ends up covering the tax amount in its entirety. Do note ... Read More
Closing a home purchase by tymrtn
Hey there, My wife and I are trying to close on a property in Condado. Unfortunately we're not act20/22 investors with millions of $, so we also have to get financing. So far we've had some promising progress. Our lawyer indicates that we ...
It depends. If you are doing direct owner financing then yes typically the attorney is the one that will order the title search. If you are trying to obtain financing through a bank or independent mortgage company ( I work with an independent mtg ... Read More
Closing a home purchase by tymrtn
Hey there, My wife and I are trying to close on a property in Condado. Unfortunately we're not act20/22 investors with millions of $, so we also have to get financing. So far we've had some promising progress. Our lawyer indicates that we ...
The notary fee for your mortgage is based on your loan amount. You can always ask for a seller concession towards closing and yes if the appraisal comes back above the list price the seller's net shouldn't be impacted much (depends on a ... Read More
Closing a home purchase by tymrtn
Hey there, My wife and I are trying to close on a property in Condado. Unfortunately we're not act20/22 investors with millions of $, so we also have to get financing. So far we've had some promising progress. Our lawyer indicates that we ...
Hi Tyler, I'm a local pr mortgage banker and that is very accurate. on (mortgaged) financed transactions the buyer is responsible for the mortgage deed notary fees. The standard is either 1% or .5%. The seller will typically handle the notary ... Read More
Tips on Buying a Home Cash Down by mrtibbs
Hello all, We are looking to buy a turn key modest home in Isabela or Aguadilla. There is a lot of useful information on this Forum. However, I know that the rules are different in terms of house hunting in Puerto Rico as opposed to the states. Our ...
If you intend to work with Mr. Lopez ( or any agent for that matter... but specifically with him) that you retain your own separate attorney to thoroughly review any contract you enter with him. He is also an attorney so he may offer the service ... Read More
Discount furniture places? Amazon prime can't deliver by BeckyPotterbaum
Ok, so I guess I'm so used to going on Amazon, Overstock, Wayfair or even Walmart for those amazing deals on shippable furniture and larger household items. Amazon prime is amazing with their free shipping! But alas, I'm at a loss - I'm ...
There is a large store in Guaynabo called Aliss not far off of highway 20 that has an entire 2nd floor dedicated to patio furniture at very reasonable prices. Read More
Home Inspectors
My company works with Mary Ayuso and have had great results. Her cell is ***, but I haven't talked to her since the storm. I shot her a text when you posted your question but haven't heard back from her yet, I'll post here once I do. Read More
P.R. A.M. - P.M. by londonpride
Wasn't sure where to post this since there are several different active threads about issues ante-maria & post-maria. A.M. and P.M. have taken on an additional meaning since 9/20. So I started this thread. The moderator from Expat can ...
I remain optimistic about the short term and long term effects the storm has had. My wife works for a major airline and is at the San Juan airport almost every day. Yes after the storm, many left as we all know but many are now coming back as ... Read More
How have you all fared through the storm and the rebuilding process by Texas Jeff
we have a great opportunity to move to PR soon. due to the commute distance, Ponce looks like a better choice than San Juan. Thoughts about Ponce ? Hoping all of you fare well during the recent and ongoing challenges.
Curious where would you be commuting to if you lived in Ponce? When we first moved here my wife worked at the Ponce airport, and I got to participate on her employer 's basketball team and have spent a fair amount of time there. Very nice city, ... Read More
Looking at the options by Retire1
Was able to get to PR last year and was pretty impressed with San Juan and Vieques. Need some info on rent vs. buy for a possible change of scenery. Retired military with SSDI. Thought I could get within a reasonable distance of Buchanan to take ...
Hi Retire 1, I'm a local mortgage banker here on the island and I mainly work with people from the states that are looking to relocate and/or invest or buy second home/vacation property here. I agree, with Ray and others that I have seen post ... Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourselves here 聳 June to December 2017 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Puerto Rico forum? Don聮t know how to start? This thread is for you聽;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...
HI Kristycoqui, So sorry to hear about the place you were previously staying in, but happy to see that you are still sticking around PR. We ( I have a wife and 4yr old son) live about 15 mins from the observatory and love this part of the ... Read More
P.R. A.M. - P.M. by londonpride
Wasn't sure where to post this since there are several different active threads about issues ante-maria & post-maria. A.M. and P.M. have taken on an additional meaning since 9/20. So I started this thread. The moderator from Expat can ...
The trash situation has been a tough one. I live in a small community in Camuy close to the caves and i am happy to report that yesterday we had trash collected for the first time since the storm. Before yesterday it was an exercise of creativity. ... Read More
Airport parking @SJU by Frankie1adrian
Does SJU airport have long term parking?
There is a service about 5-10mins from the airport for. 9.99/ day that has a free shuttle back and forth. I don't have the phone# available right now, but if you have an interest shoot me a PM and i can give you details and exact location ... Read More
Tracking Irma by Sitka
This new storm track is making me concerned. PR may be in the path - currently a cat 2, but predicted to grow. Best keep a close eye on this one for the next week or so. :o http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/refresh/graphics_at1+shtml/145426.shtml?cone
I have solar panels on my house, here they are anchored in pretty well, let's how it goes:) Read More
Internet by PeasantDaughter
Forgive me if this is a redundant question, but the forum search function isn't working for me right now. In order to move to PR, it is critical we have reliable internet. Since we are also starting a farm, it won't be in a metro area. ...
I live in the mountains close to Lares, here and use a company called Dish4Net, I've been with them now for almost 3 years and they have been gradually improving,i pay for 2MBS (but they can go up to 10), and don't have many issues with ... Read More
Flood zone at house
Yes, banks do lend on them, however you will have to typically purchase an elevation certificate ($150) and have a flood insurance policy. The premiums can end up being high on occasion. There has been rezoning done of late so be sure to ask the ... Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourselves here 聳 June to December 2017 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Puerto Rico forum? Don聮t know how to start? This thread is for you聽;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...
If you do end up wanting to seriously consider Vieques as an option I can put you in contact with an excellent realtor there as well an attorney that is extremely familiar with Vieques as well that can help you navigate how the process works. Read More
What to expect when moving to Puerto Rico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Is there anything you wish you had known before moving to Puerto Rico? For example, transportation, internet speeds, types of housing, aspects of the culture or social life. In your opinion, what's the most important thing to ...
HI Priscilla, I've lived here full time now for the past 3 years and prior to the move visited at least a few times a year over an 8 year span... I came here with a very open mind and was set and prepared for "island time" way of ... Read More
New members of the Puerto Rico forum, introduce yourselves here 聳 June to December 2017 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Puerto Rico forum? Don聮t know how to start? This thread is for you聽;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...
Hello Everyone, I'm a newbie to this site but have just completed my 3rd year of living full time on the island. I'm most recently from Denver, CO and my wife and I decided to move to PR after the birth of our first child so we could be ... Read More