what to know about buying real estate and living in guatemala
Lago de Atitlan. Guatemala.
1. Life in a Developing Country
Guatemala remains a developing nation, and this is especially noticeable in rural areas. Infrastructure can be basic, with unpaved roads, occasional power outages, and limited access to public transport. While life around Lake Atitlán is peaceful and picturesque, t’s important to be prepared for a slower pace and a different level of service reliability compared to high-income countries. This may include limited availability of certain services, slower administrative processes, and the need for patience and flexibility in everyday life.
2. Political Climate and Stability
Although daily life in villages like Jaibalito is often calm, political unrest does occur at the national level. Demonstrations and road blockades are not uncommon, particularly around election periods or in urban centers. While these rarely affect life at the lake directly, it's wise to stay informed and avoid travel during times of national protest. Roadblocks can paralyze the entire country and its economy for days or even weeks, so having supplies and a certain level of self-sufficiency is advisable.
3. Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, Landslides, Floods, and Fires
Located where three tectonic plates meet, Guatemala is home to over 30 volcanoes, several of which are active and mild to moderate earthquakes are a regular occurrence. The country has also experienced major earthquakes in the past, some of which have caused significant damage. During the rainy season, heavy downpours can lead to flooding and landslides, especially in mountainous areas, but as well in the whole country. In contrast, the dry season brings the occasional risk of bushfires in more forested or exposed areas.
4. Healthcare Access
Healthcare in Guatemala is a mix of public and private systems. Public clinics are free but often lack supplies and staff, especially in remote areas. Private hospitals in larger cities offer higher standards of care and shorter wait times, but require out-of-pocket payment or insurance coverage. English-speaking doctors are available in some private facilities.
Medical insurance is not legally required but recommended.
5. Safety and Security
While many foreign residents experience Guatemala as warm and welcoming, especially in regions like Lake Atitlán - crime does exist, and it’s important to stay aware. Armed robberies involving foreigners have occasionally been reported, particularly on remote hiking trails or isolated rural roads. In bigger towns and public spaces, petty theft such as pickpocketing is more common.
In Jaibalito and the neighboring lakeside villages, violent incidents are rare, and the atmosphere remains generally peaceful. However, taking basic precautions is strongly advised. With mindfulness and sensible habits, most expats find life here to be safe, serene, and deeply enriching.
6. Property Ownership
On the property side, legal ownership in Guatemala can be complex, and title verification is essential. At Lake Atitlán, the most common form of title is the Escritura Pública, which -while not fully registered in the national land registry, is highly respected locally and widely used in practice.
Properties near lakes, rivers, or coastlines often fall under leases or require special OCRET permits. While an OCRET leasehold does not grant full ownership, it provides legal security, clearly defined property boundaries, and a right of renewal (renewable 30-year contracts). Engaging a trusted local attorney and verifying all legal documentation is crucial to avoid future complications.