The Expat Files - 06/01/12

-One new spot has opened up in my Latin Insider’s seminar (in late June). If you want to attend please email me ASAP at theexpatfiles@gmail.com put the word “Seminar” in the subject line and reserve that place.

-Be sure to sign up for my Saturday am, June 2nd teleconference call. Do this by going to www.expatwisdom.com and signing up for my free report- “17 Undiscovered Latin American Paradises”. By signing up you will automatically get an email with the details on how to participate in the teleconference.

-Money and grief saving tips on buying, building and renting in Latin America.

-Water, water, everywhere. And unfortunately, during the rainy, season it’s not always in your shower or your sink, but more likely percolating down your windows and seeping through the walls.

-The state of homeowner’s insurance in Latin America; less than 2% of homes are covered, and as for now- I don’t recommended it. There are way too many exclusions and loopholes and very high deductibles. It’s an all round bad deal.

-The truth about those horrible sewer smells that pervade about one in four private Latin bathrooms (and about 100% of the public ones)

-Silicone caulk is used by the trainload down here. It’s a contractor’s best friend and the Latin version of duck tape (Though duck tape is immensely popular down here too)

-Tips on outfitting your Latin American digs using good quality plumbing and appliances. If left to their own devices, 95% of the local contractors will install cheap second rate stuff that will come back to haunt you some day.

-How to avoid a very preventable (and frequent) type of house flood

-Do not plan on having carpets or rugs, unless you want a new ecosystem in your living room