We are considering a move to PR in the fall as a company sponsored move. Empty nesters that always loved the Caribbean and thinking about retiring there. Frankly, PR wouldn't be a our first choice since we don't speak Spanish and on our brief visits there we have felt like outsiders. However, the business tax breaks for my employer are huge, such that they make me an offer I can't refuse. Not sure where my office will be, but assume it will be in the San Juan financial district or area where the major banks are located. Would want at least 2 bedrooms because we hope to have frequent visitors. Not sure if we should consider a 2 bedroom condo close in or a 3/2 house further out of town. Might convert the a bedroom to a video room.
I have been researching online about PR earned income tax and the breaks on interest, dividends and capital gains for US citizens that become bona fide residents of PR. Obviously, I need some professional tax help.
Are there areas that are known for having a high concentration of Ex-Pats / English speaking people? We would like to live close to a decent beach in a safe environment. I don't mind commuting 20-40 mintes to work to find the right place. How helpful are realtors / leasing agents? Could I find a place to lease for 6 months with just a 3-4 day trip? Probably not interested in buying a place as my commitment will be for 2 years.
I love my car. I know bringing it in to PR will create a big excise tax in addition to shipping costs, but I may be able to get my company to pay for at least one car. It looks like prices of car are horribly inflated at well due to taxation. Do any of you have an electric car? Is the infrastructure there to use one? Is electricity to inexpensive relative to gasoline to make it economically feasible?
Lots of other things to consider - bringing our dogs is a must, insurance for cars, fast internet connection, got to have DirecTV to get the NFL Sunday Ticket. Big decisions about what furniture to bring and what to store (driven by place we lease)
Thanks for all your posts on the forum. I have really enjoyed reading them and gathering information.