Ecuador is truly unique. There are many places around the world where you can find cheap land, Ecuador included. But in many of those places, you’d lead an uncomfortable life, far from friends and family and disconnected from the rest of the world. Not so in Ecuador.
The tropical coast of Ecuador is one of International Living's hotspots. It's diverse, it's beautiful, it's largely undeveloped, and, best of all, it's overlooked. You can still buy a beachfront home here for $50,000.
Learn more about Ecuador and other countries in our daily postcard e-letter. We'll also send you a free report- Ecuador: Live Like Royalty on Half Your Social Security.
This special guide covers covers real estate, retirement and more in Ecuador and is yours free when you sign up for our postcards.
Ecuador Articles
An Insider’s Guide to the Best Neighborhoods in CuencaPosted on April 22, 2013 by Edd Staton
For many reasons, Cuenca, Ecuador earns top billing as one of the world’s top expat destinations. The cost of living is low—three-course lunches start at $2.50—the weather is great, usually around 65 to 70 F during the day, and it’s never too cold or hot. When we want to travel back to the U.S., it takes us as little as six-and-a-half hours’ flight time to New York (plus you’ll get a major discount on your fare if you are a resident retiree).
Cliff-Top Homes and Staggering ViewsPosted on April 22, 2013 by International Living
There’s no other view in the world like it. In a cliff-top home, there’s nothing between you and the beautiful vista but empty space. You never have to worry about a house going up in front of you or that your neighbor’s new satellite dish will block your line of sight. Badminton in the back yard may be out. But morning coffee and sunset drinks on the terrace are in. If you’re on the seaside, the rumbling waves pounding the rocks below will be your lullaby.
Coastal Ecuador is a Buy Today—Prices Are Already RisingPosted on December 20, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Right now it feels like civilization has forgotten about this place. It’s the coast of Ecuador, running from north of Canoa to Pedernales. One of the last stunning and undiscovered stretches of Pacific coast in the Americas, it is now set to be developed. And if you are interested in buying best-in-class real estate at deep, early-in values, this is a stretch of coast that should be on your radar.
13 Great-Value Buys in the World’s Top HavensPosted on December 20, 2012 by International Living
Whether you dream of a pastel-painted, old colonial home surrounded by lush gardens or a super-modern condo just yards from the beach, in locations all over the planet you’ll find incredible value. Affordable, good-value real estate is a “stand-out” factor of the world’s best retirement havens.
Buy in Quito, Ecuador from $46,000; or Rent for $400Posted on December 2, 2012 by Suzan Haskins
Every time you turn around, another travel piece appears about Ecuador’s capital city, Quito. Mainstream travel writers, it seems, are just now discovering what we’ve known for years… that the city is a worthy destination that blends new and old in alluring ways. It doesn’t hurt that Quito is one of the world’s most affordable cities.
An Insider’s Guide to Quito’s Best NeighborhoodsPosted on November 26, 2012 by Suzan Haskins
Every time you turn around, another travel piece appears about Ecuador’s capital city, Quito. Mainstream travel writers, it seems, are just now discovering what we’ve known for years…that the city is a worthy destination that blends new and old in alluring ways. It doesn’t hurt that Quito is one of the world’s most affordable cities, where you can still take a taxi anywhere in town for $1 to $5 and find a menú del día…usually a four-course meal of soup, salad, meat/rice/vegetables, dessert, and beverage…for $1.50 to $2.50.
Run Your Own B&B OverseasPosted on November 26, 2012 by International Living
Own your own four-bedroom B&B in the middle of one of the most beautiful spots in Ecuador. At 8,000 feet, you’re surrounded by mountains. And the climate is ideal year-round—no need for heat or air conditioning—and there’s a large open patio and summer kitchen. The colonial town of Cotacachi, known for its leatherwork, is just 10 minutes away. Otavalo (pictured), a larger town famous for its Saturday open-air market filled with indigenous handicrafts, is just five minutes down the road. The country’s capital, Quito, is just a two-hour drive.
Homes for Less Than $150,000Posted on October 22, 2012 by International Living
Famous for its artisanal leather goods, the colonial town of Cotacachi (pictured) features open-air markets and small mom-and-pop stores. For other amenities Ecuador’s capital, Quito, is only two hours away by car or bus. Here you’ll find a three-bedroom, three-bathroom condo, one of six in a secure building. There are great mountain views and at 8,000 feet, there is no heat or humidity. It’s cool in the evenings.
Best Beach Deal on Ecuador’s Pacific CoastPosted on October 18, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
On Ecuador’s best stretch of coast sandy coves and verdant hills showcase jaw-dropping views. Prices have stayed low here because it was difficult to get to. But a new highway means that this has changed. Members of Real Estate Trend Alert can buy a lot in the best-in-class project in this area, with a manageable down payment and monthly payments of $470.
Buy Here, on the Best Beach for Hundreds of Miles…Posted on October 12, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Not only is it the finest section of Pacific coast in Ecuador…it’s the finest anywhere. This is a place of explosive colors and contrasts, forests and coves, exotic butterflies and monkeys. Fishing villages and little surf towns dot the coast. Fishermen bring their fresh bounty ashore and sell it from their boats. Pioneer surfers catch waves and enjoy a cold beer at sundown.
Beach Home Bargains in EcuadorPosted on September 3, 2012 by Margaret Summerfield
If you’re looking for a beach home and you’re on a tight budget, one country should top your shortlist: Ecuador. Ecuador’s coast is a sleeping giant. For years foreign buyers ignored it as a second-home destination. When it came to buying a place in the sun, they focused on better-known (and more expensive) beach destinations. That lack of foreign buyers is why beach homes in Ecuador remain affordable.
Best Beach Condos on Ecuador’s Pacific CoastPosted on August 20, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
On Friday I told you about the opportunity to buy a lot at the Jama Campay project on Ecuador’s North Coast. Members of our little group can buy a lot with a starting price of $32,256. With the special member-only finance terms, we can buy this lot with a down payment of $16,128 and monthly payments of $448. But maybe you are looking for something more turnkey?
Best Beach Deal on Ecuador’s Pacific CoastPosted on August 17, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Ecuador’s nicest 60-mile stretch of coast is now accessible. It’s here, on the best part of this stretch of Pacific Coast, in a “best in class” project, that we can buy a lot from $32,256. This is an “off market” deal—14 lots in this project are only available to members of Real Estate Trend Alert. With the special member-only finance terms, we can buy this lot with a down payment of $16,128 and monthly payments of $448.
Long Life and Low Costs in Vilcabamba, EcuadorPosted on July 19, 2012 by Suzan Haskins
In Vilcabamba, Ecuador, you feel like you could live forever. It’s no wonder that this boasts of being the “Valley of Longevity,” where long, healthy lives are common and many of the locals claim to be centenarians—living well into their 100s. Perhaps it’s the climate. Just shy of the equator in southern Ecuador and at an elevation of 5,000 feet, temperatures in Vilcabamba average between 65 F and 81 F.
Long Life, Low Costs in Ecuador’s Sacred ValleyPosted on June 28, 2012 by Suzan Haskins
The morning mist burns away to reveal an expanse of velvety mountains and the green-carpeted valley in all its glory. Fresh air and blazing blue skies are to be expected here in the Andes. Here, you feel like you could live forever. It’s no wonder that this boasts of being the “Valley of Longevity,” where long, healthy lives are common and many of the locals claim to be centenarians—living well into their 100s.
Properties that Earn their KeepPosted on June 28, 2012 by anon
Every month we take a look at some of the properties available around the world. This time out, we’re highlighting properties that not only provide you with a roof over your head, but an income to boot. Escape to Ecuador’s Yunguilla Valley and surround yourself with blossoming fruit trees and fresh fish on your own tropical property.
How Much to Live in Vilcabamba, Ecuador?Posted on June 4, 2012 by Suzan Haskins
Vilcabamba, Ecuador is a place that’s pristine and natural. It just makes you want to slow down and enjoy life as long as you can. Some scientists believe the clean, mineral-rich water that flows from mountain streams and springs is akin to the fountain of youth.
The Ultimate Real Estate Deal in EcuadorPosted on April 23, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Ecuador’s north coast is one of the finest stretches of Pacific coast you will find. Steep, bright green jungle-clad hills rise from the flat blue ocean. In places, rocky coves sculpt sandy beaches. Here would be a great place to have a beach home.
The World’s Best Real Estate MarketsPosted on March 27, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
In pockets all across the planet, you’ll find amazing opportunities to make money from real estate. I’m talking about beautiful places tucked into lush jungle-clad hills, on white sandy coves, in bustling cities, and in small colonial towns. These are markets on the upswing. The mainstream hasn’t heard of them yet. And in them today you’ll get excellent bang for your buck as well as great profit potential.
Highlights from the Global Real Estate Index 2012Posted on March 27, 2012 by International Living
Some of the best properties up for grabs in the countries that topped IL’s Global Real Estate Index 2012.
The World’s Best Real Estate Markets in 2012Posted on March 27, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
In this Global Real Estate Index, you’ll find listed the 27 places in the world today that boast the most attractive, and potentially lucrative, real estate opportunities. Each of these places has something special to recommend it…some attribute you won’t find elsewhere. Those that top the list hold the most profit potential right now. Those at mid-table and below are ones to watch.
Ecuador’s Coastal SecretPosted on March 16, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
If I owned a beach house here, I don’t think I’d rent it to anyone. I’m not sure I’d want to share this place, here on the finest stretch of Ecuador’s coast. I’d want to be here…feet dangling in the lap pool, face in the bright sun and warm breezes…all the time. Well, maybe at sunset I’d amble down the steps to the beach for a dip in the mighty Pacific…
The Best Project on This Stretch of Pacific CoastPosted on March 13, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
You’ll find Ecuador’s nicest stretch of coast in the north. It runs for 100 miles of sandy beaches, rocky coves and steep forested hills around the town of Jama. RETA members have bought beach homes here—at the Jama Campay project.
When I was in Cancun recently for International Living’s Ultimate Event, Francisco, the developer at Jama Campay, burst into the exhibit hall waving pieces of paper. “I have it…I have it…I got it yesterday…just before I got on the plane…” He was talking about permits—his condos are now permitted.
Mansions and Luxury LivingPosted on February 21, 2012 by anon
It’s the world’s most affordable retirement haven, but that doesn’t mean you can’t splash the cash on top-end luxury in Ecuador.
For 30 Members Only: Trip to the Most Affordable Beach on the Pacific CoastPosted on December 23, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
Ecuador’s nicest 100-mile stretch of coast used to be difficult to get to. That’s changed with the new highway. One strong opportunity I’ve told you about on this coast is Jama Campay.
This is where you can buy a 1,800-square-foot home perched above…yet only steps from…a white-sand beach. From your lap pool you have views past the beach and breaking waves to the Pacific Ocean.
Properties from our Winning HavenPosted on December 20, 2011 by International Living
This home is in a chic beach community called Punta Blanca around 15 minutes north of Salinas on Ecuador’s Pacific Coast. Sitting right next to a long white-sand beach, the community feels private, with spacious architect-designed houses and an exclusive beach club.
Protected: Only 8 Lots Left with a Pacific Coast Beach View for $500/monthPosted on December 9, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Salinas, Ecuador: Rent From $450 a MonthPosted on December 9, 2011 by Suzan Haskins
A couple of years ago a friend came to visit us in Ecuador. Once here, he realized that the biggest expense of his trip was his airfare. With nice hotel rooms priced at $30 a night (including breakfast); full meals, including beverage, for $2.50; and beers for $1 or a glass of wine for $2, he was hardly spending anything to kick around the country.
15 Lots Left in the Most Affordable Deal on the Pacific Coast Right NowPosted on December 6, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
As a member of our little group you will know that we have a strong opportunity to profit on Ecuador’s north coast. A new highway has reduced drive time from the capital, Quito, to the coast. What once took eight hours now takes three and a half hours.
We can buy a lot in Jama Campay, a “best in class” project, with a manageable down payment and monthly payments of $416.
Beach Property Bargains in EcuadorPosted on December 1, 2011 by Suzan Haskins
There may be no better place in the world right now to buy beachfront real estate than Ecuador. But don’t just take it from me. In its annual International Home Price Comparison Index, global real estate giant Coldwell Banker has named Ecuador as the lowest-priced real estate market in the world for the past several years.
Great Lifestyle Options in the World’s Best Retirement HavenPosted on November 30, 2011 by Suzan Haskins
As far as I’m concerned, Ecuador rocks. It may be a small country, but it has more to offer than you can imagine…great cities and quiet villages….the majestic snowcapped Andes mountains…impossibly beautiful beaches…and the glorious Amazon rainforest. Importantly, Ecuador has a low cost of living and some of the world’s lowest real estate prices.
- Recommended: Ecuador Road Trip
Posted on November 26, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
I am bullish on Ecuador’s north coast—and have been since 2009. It’s Ecuador’s nicest stretch of coast. And now a new highway joins the new coastal highway at Pedernales, opening up the seaside area around Jama—classic Path of Progress. It’s stunning here but real estate prices stayed low because it was difficult to get to. This coast is hotting up. An owner who got in two-and-a-half years ago has been able to resell his lot in a project I recommended. He sold for close to double what he paid. Not a bad return. Don’t worry. You haven’t missed out. This opportunity is only getting started.
Where to Look in the Year Ahead for the Best Property DealsPosted on November 9, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
Greetings from Quito, Ecuador. In a few moments, I leave for the north coast. This is Ecuador’s nicest stretch of coast. We have the opportunity to buy lots here with monthly payments of $500 or less. Because of the new highway we’ll reach the coast by 9.30 a.m. or so. In time for morning ceviche on the beach.
I’m looking forward to seeing the improvements in the coastal highway that runs south to Canoa since I last visited. I’ll send you my full report soon on the infrastructure developments and improvements at the Jama Campay project.
In fact, while the year is winding down…my travel schedule and deal pipeline is filling up. These are exciting times.
Protected: Pacific Coast Beach View for $500/monthPosted on November 2, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Come See the Most Affordable Deal on the Pacific Coast Right NowPosted on October 28, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
Last week I told you about a strong opportunity we have at the Jama Campay project on Ecuador’s dramatic north Pacific Coast.
This is an “off market” deal—30 handpicked lots are only available to members of Real Estate Trend Alert. With the special member-only finance terms, we can buy one of these lots with a down payment of $15,000 and monthly payments of $416.
On Nov. 1st, 2014 you could make your last payment of $416.
The Most Affordable Deal on the Pacific Coast Right NowPosted on October 21, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
Ecuador’s nicest stretch of coast is now accessible. Buying here can position you ahead of the Path of Progress. It’s here, in the nicest part of this 100-kilometer stretch of Pacific Coast, in a “best in class” project, that we can buy a lot from $30,000.
This is an “off market” deal—30 lots at Jama Campay are only available to members of Real Estate Trend Alert.
Oceanfront Condo in Ecuador: $47,500Posted on October 11, 2011 by Suzan Haskins
Crucita is a sleepy little beach town – a place to enjoy lazy days in the sun, swimming in the warm ocean waters or relaxing in the sand with a cold beer to hand. This beautiful little beach town is growing in popularity with expat retirees and it’s easy to see why.
Where to Buy a Pacific Beachfront Condo for $50,000Posted on September 27, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
Along Ecuador’s Pacific coast, $50,000 buys you a beachfront condo. Expect to pay no more than $100 per month to cover your property tax, condo fees and other holding costs.
Colonial Bargains in Latin America — from $115,000Posted on September 16, 2011 by Margaret Summerfield
Whenever I travel to any of Latin America’s colonial cities, I can’t help but compare them to my home, the historic Casco Viejo district of Panama City. I’ve lived here for almost five years and I love this neighborhood’s friendly, bohemian vibe and beautiful buildings.
- Property Picks: Where No Car is Required
Posted on September 16, 2011 by International Living
A sample of properties where you can live without needing a car to get around.
More about Real Estate
Free Report & E-letter
Retire Overseas Now
Sign up for our free daily Postcard e-letter and we'll immediately send you a FREE research report on the most desirable -- and cheapest -- retirement havens available to you today. Each day you'll learn about the best places to retire, travel, buy real estate and enjoy life overseas.
Testimonials
-
“We have been IL members for about two years, we get the daily post cards, and like many folks we dreamed of and talked about living overseas. We have bought several of the owners manuals, all very informative and full of advice that is priceless when you do take the leap……which we just did. Our …
