What to check before buying a home in Puerto Rico
A practical checklist covering the property, the paperwork and the risks specific to the island.
Updated 16 de agosto de 2026
The paperwork
- Title study confirming who legally owns the property and what encumbers it.
- CRIM property tax status — is anything owed?
- Construction permits for the structure as it currently stands.
- If it is a condo or gated community, HOA fees and whether the seller is current on them.
- Confirm the property description in the Registry matches what you are actually buying. Discrepancies in lot size are common.
The building
- Roof — the single most expensive thing to be wrong in this climate.
- Signs of humidity and mold, especially in an empty property.
- Termites and wood damage.
- Electrical panel and wiring age.
- Plumbing and water pressure; ask about the cistern and water tank.
- Whether the structure is concrete or wood, which affects both insurance cost and hurricane resilience.
The location
- Flood zone — check it before you get an insurance quote, because it drives the quote.
- Road access, including whether the access road is public or private.
- Power and water reliability in that specific area.
- Distance to hospital, schools and grocery.
- Visit at different times of day if you can.
The money
- A real insurance quote for that address, not an estimate.
- A written closing cost estimate.
- A repair budget based on the inspection, with contingency.
- Your total monthly cost including insurance and CRIM — not just the mortgage payment.
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. Confirm requirements and program availability with the relevant agencies and lenders.
Browse available properties