WRITTEN by JOHN MORRIS
Should I or shouldn’t I?
Should I stay or should I go now?
Should I stay or should I go now?
If I go, there will be trouble
And if I stay it will be double
So come on and let me know
The Clash. Combat Rock. CBS Records, 1982
Anyone considering the expat life has faced these feelings.
If I leave, my family may never forgive me. If I stay, I might be miserable in my home country.
This is the first and hardest part of the grand, life-changing decision.
But there are more tough decisions ahead.
I follow the Roatan Travel Q & A Facebook group where posters ask all sorts of questions. And expat residents gladly chime in to welcome newcomers and ease the uncertainty.
But beware. Many wannabe comedians are out there just waiting to throw you off – a part of the charm of island life that will hopefully leave you smiling.
A typical question is…
My wife and I plan on retiring to Roatan. Where is the best place to buy our new home?
A typical answer is…
Rent first, then buy once you know the island is for you.
Good advice? Maybe, maybe not.
Of course, I always recommend a visit to the island first to get a feel of the culture, geography, weather and community.
After checking it out, if you’re still sold on making paradise your home, you can dive in with a real estate agent… or try to find a long term rental.
Normally though, here on Roatan, long term rentals are rare. Owners prefer to utilize their properties as vacation rentals… for the obvious reasons: more money, less hassle.
Plus, it offers the opportunity to enjoy a vacation in their own house. Property management services are available to make the process a worry-free experience.
Also it’s important to note, many long term rentals are properties that are actively for sale. You’ll have to sign a contract with a clause that if the property is sold, you agree to vacate within 30-60 days.
And, unlike the USA, Roatan does not have rental-only communities.
Let’s face it – no one likes moving.
Making the initial move to relocate here is challenging enough and personally, the thought of having to move several more times is downright daunting.
You can’t call Allied Van Lines to pack and haul your stuff. Most often it is the friend of a friend who has a truck and some inexperienced young men to move your belongings from one place to another. Watching the process might make you cringe.
Don’t get me wrong, sometimes renting makes perfect sense.
But if you’re really ready to pull up that anchor from your hometown and place it firmly on Roatan, then buying is a sure and safe bet… provided you use the services of reputable realtor and attorney.
The real estate market here is a growing one so chances are you will not be saddled with a property should your life plans change. And remember, you can always rent out your property too!
So to answer The Clash’s question, I say… “Anchors aweigh my friends, move on and seriously consider buying.”
Many have done it here with no regrets. It’s easier than you think!
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