Salinas, Ecuador

"Get to know the place before you commit, as everywhere else, you have to like the place with its pros and cons. In getting a place for rent or purchase, stick to licensed real estate brokers as there are many "unofficial" brokers who will get you in trouble... guaranteed. I was a victim of one of them until I contacted the Coldwell Banker people. As far as I go, they are the only professionals I trust," wrote a member in Salinas.

"Do not listen to anyone initially, feel the place out first and make sure you enjoy the area. When buying or renting a place such as apartments be careful of all Brokers, even the Licensed, who both I and our friends have seen on many occasions add 20% or more to the costs and who also try to get paid both sides, by in effect charging innocent foreigners much more, where as if you deal with owners directly you will pay less! Brokers means that they are more broke than you so be CAREFUL. I recommend either Tucasaecuador.com on line or their magazine you can buy in the main Shopping center or in Petrol stations. Personally we bought from the Best Tower in Town the PHOENIX LUXURY TOWER who were in this magazine in front of the Banco Pacifico on the second street in Salinas which has over 9 nationalities based there and found that in dealing with the OWNER we got the best and fairest deal and no broker crap trap! They have suites, medium and large apartments but are over 80% sold now," commented one expat who made the move to Salinas.