Complaints Against Real Estate Companies Surge in Panama

In Panama, real estate complaints have risen to over $379 million. Consumers are advised to carefully examine contracts and properties. Acodeco resolved numerous issues, including over 7,000 claims from 2006 to 2024.


Complaints Against Real Estate Companies Surge in Panama

In the real estate sector, numerous complaints have been filed against real estate companies for an amount exceeding 379 million dollars, according to the Consumer Protection and Competition Defense Authority (Acodeco). The reasons for these complaints include abusive clauses, breach of contract, lack of information, warranty violations, refunds, and hidden defects.

From 2006 to 2024, Acodeco has resolved a total of 7,143 claims in favor of affected consumers, amounting to 379,622,877.87 dollars. Through agreements between parties, 3,414 complaints have been satisfactorily resolved for a total of 211,962,972.96 dollars. Furthermore, 3,093 cases were concluded by withdrawal, reaching an amount of 155,226,102.01 dollars, and 149 claims have been resolved thanks to favorable judicial rulings.

It is important for consumers to conduct thorough research before purchasing a new home. They cannot rely solely on the condition of a property because it is new, as hidden defects may arise. It is advisable to keep the advertising of the property to be acquired and to carefully review the contract, including the delivery date of the home. Comparing prices and conducting periodic inspections before delivery are preventive measures that can avoid inconveniences.

During the same period, a total of 11,375 claims were filed for an accumulated amount of 707,059,624.56 dollars. It is essential for consumers to be informed and take precautions when making real estate transactions to avoid potential problems in the future.