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Best Live Music in San Juan

Music is at the heart of Puerto Rican culture and can be heard across the island. The formation of plenty of notable Latin America genres are intertwined with the island’s history such as salsa, plena, bomba, reggaeton, danza and música jíbara. For instance, bomba is a specific dance genre with political lyrics due to its roots in the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Reggaeton, an enticing blend of hip hop and Latin American music, has now gained recognition throughout the globe but was originally popularized on the streets of Puerto Rico. Jazz and indie rock are also immensely popular but always with a signature Puerto Rican flavor. One of the best places to find an impromptu dance party in Puerto Rico is at one of the island’s many chinchorros; small snack stalls that blast music. Additionally, it’s worth tuning into Zeta 93, a show on WZNT radio station, which hosts Día Nacional de la Zalsa (the national day of salsa). If you’re a true dance fanatic, you can head to Loíza Aldea to celebrate in Las Fiestas de Santiago Apóstol which is a bomba festival every July. For all the best venues to visit when seeking Puerto Rico’s vibrant live music culture, check out the following list.Bars and ClubsEl BoricuaLocation = 5 C. Saldaña, San Juan, 00925, Puerto RicoHours = Open 3pm-5am Monday to SaturdayPrices = Free entryWebsite = https://www.facebook.com/elboricuarp/ El Boricua is a popular bar nestled in Rio Piedras. As a popular spot with students, expect energetic dancing to salsa, bomba, plena as well as rumba. You can also catch live jazz and indie rock but don’t worry because there is an outdoor space to cool down from all that dancing.La FactoríaLocation = 148 C. de San Sebastián, San Juan, 00901, Puerto RicoHours = Open 11am-12am every dayPrices = Free entryWebsite = https://www.lafactoriapr.com There’s a reason why La Factoría has made The World’s 50 Best Bars list numerous times. The establishment hosts six bars each with their own unique drinks menu to match the aesthetic. Head to the Shing A’ling bar for Salsa Sundays to dance with both locals and tourists.La RespuestaLocation = 1600 Av. Manuel Fernández Juncos, San Juan, 00909, Puerto RicoHours = 9pm-12am Thursday, 10pm-4am Friday and Saturday, 9pm-4am MondayPrices = Usually $10Website = https://www.larespuestasanturce.com Covering all genres from pop to R&B to Latin jazz, La Respuesta is a nightclub that never fails to host alluring live music. Every Monday is a dance hall whilst the weekends tend to host performances from local bands.Piso Viejo Bar & RestaurantLocation = 1917 C. Loíza, San Juan, 00911, Puerto RicoHours = 6pm-2am Tuesday to Wednesday, 6am-3am Thursday, 3pm-3am Friday to Saturday, 11am-2am SundayPrices = Free entry Website = https://pisoviejo.com Most days this is a classic restaurant and bar, but every Thursday evening the venue erupts with salsa played by a full live band. If you’re looking to brush up on your dancing steps, they also offer free salsa dancing lessons.Club 77Location = 1102 Av. Juan Ponce de León, San Juan, 00925, Puerto RicoHours = 12pm-2am Tuesday to Friday, 8pm-4am Saturday Prices = Free entryWebsite = https://www.facebook.com/club77pr/ Specializing in rock, Club 77 is the go-to spot for live performances from local bands. However, you can also enjoy a DJ set or drag performance on different occasions. Triana Tapas & FlamencoLocation = Bank of Nova Scotia Building, 251 C. del Recinto Sur, San Juan, 00901, Puerto RicoHours = 12pm-8:30pm Monday to Wednesday, 12pm-9pm Friday to SundayPrices = Free entryWebsite = https://www.facebook.com/trianatapasyflamenco/ As suggested by the name, this tapas restaurant doubles up as a hub for authentic Spanish Flamenco dancing six evenings of the week. If you’re enticed by the chance to experience live music from Puerto Rico’s diverse history, this is the place for you.El Balcón del ZumbadorLocation = CXJ3+7QC, Av. Barbosa, San Juan, 00915, Puerto RicoHours = Open 3pm-12am Wednesday to SaturdayPrices = Free entryWebsite = N/ALocated in Piñones, this beach bar is more modest than some of the others on the list but is worth a visit to hear traditional salsa bands in a more intimate setting.Outdoor Venues La Placita de SanturceLocation = 205 Calle José M. Raffucci Morales, San Juan, 00907, Puerto RicoHours = Open 24 hoursPrices = Free entry Website = https://www.laplacita.io Also in San Juan’s vibrant district of Santurce, La Placita is a two-tiered market. If you visit after 6pm, you’ll be treated to a melody of live music from a range of restaurants and stalls. One of the highlights is Taberna Los Vázques which blasts salsa from Friday to Sunday. Another must-try spot is Aguardiente, a nightclub with booming reggaeton beats.La Terraza de BonanzaLocation = CWVP+QX5, Av. Eduardo Conde, San Juan, 00912, Puerto RicoHours = Open 11am-11pm every dayPrices = Free entry Website = https://www.facebook.com/Amigos-de-La-Terraza-De-Bonanza-1011454158971631/ For a taste of a chinchorro head to La Terraza de Bonanza, grab some beers and enjoy the outdoor dancing. If you’re seeking bomba and plena music, then Monday nights are the best for you.La Vergüenza Viejo San JuanLocation = 280 C. Norzagaray, San Juan, 00901, Puerto RicoHours = Open 11am-12am every dayPrices = Free entry Website = https://www.facebook.com/laverguenzapuertorricanchinchorro/ Amidst the spectacular architecture of Old San Juan, La Vergüenza is a rooftop chinchorro with a view of the Atlantic Ocean. An affordable and authentic cuisine is not the only enticing aspect of this venue; it also has bomba parties every Sunday.El Paseo de La PrincesaLocation = 54 C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto RicoHours = Open 24 hours Prices = Free entryWebsite = N/AAmble through Paseo de la Princesa, a promenade flocked with food and market stalls, and your ears will be met with the rhythmic and melodious music of local buskers as you shop.Upmarket VenuesThe Lobby at Fairmont San Juan HotelLocation = 6063 Av. Isla Verde, Carolina, 00979, Puerto RicoHours = Varies depending on event Prices = Varies depending on event Website = https://www.elsanjuanhotel.com/entertainment/the-lobby?fbclid=IwAR1BwbY_B3TWzQ-a9Tr_rBIsF29947ka-OCU6eDVdqSo7cDY1YcZ3gNRLwk For decades, The Lobby at Fairmont San Juan Hotel has held an important place in the city’s nightlife. Dawn your formal dress and marvel at the 1960s decor whilst enjoying an evening of live music and high quality beverages and food. From sushi making to mixology, The Lobby hosts an abundance of events worth partaking in when in San Juan.Carli’s Fine Bistro & PianoLocation = 206 Calle de Tetuan Corner Of Recinto Sur And San Justo Street, San Juan, 00901, Puerto RicoHours = 5pm-11:30pm Monday to SaturdayPrices = Varies depending on food and drinkWebsite = https://www.carlisworld.com Created by pianist and composer Carli Muñoz, this bistro has the added experience of live jazz music which creates a dynamic culinary experience.The Red Coral Lounge at San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris CasinoLocation = 1309 Ashford Ave, San Juan, 00907, Puerto RicoHours = 11am-1am Monday to Thursday, 11am-3am Friday to SaturdayPrices = Varies depending on event Website = https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sjupr-san-juan-marriott-resort-and-stellaris-casino/dining/?scid=bb1a189a-fec3-4d19-a255-54ba596febe2 Along with the delicious array of cocktails, this hotel lounge offers live music on select nights. Keep an eye on their social media to see what upcoming events are in store.Concert VenuesCoca-Cola Music HallLocation = 250 Convention Blvd, San Juan, 00907, Puerto RicoHours = 10am-5pm Monday to FridayPrices = Varies depending on event Website = https://www.cocacolamusichall.com/eventsIf you’re wanting to catch a concert when in San Juan, this music venue is the best place to check out. The main music hall has a capacity of up to 5000 people, so you can enjoy Puerto Rico’s brightest stars amongst a lively audience.Teatro La PerlaLocation = 296Q+R7W, Calle Mayor, Ponce, 00730, Puerto RicoHours = 8am-4pm Monday, 8am-3pm Tuesday, 8am-12pm Thursday, 8am-1pm Friday, 1pm-2pm Saturday, 1pm-8pm SundayPrices = Varies depending on eventWebsite = https://teatrolaperlaponce.com As one of the oldest theaters in the Caribbean, Teatro La Perla is a go-to spot for classical concerts and operas. Nestled in Ponce, the theater boasts a unique history that can be discovered in its museum situated in the library.Teatro TapiaLocation = FV8Q+65P, Calle Fortaleza, C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto RicoHours = 8am-12pm and 1pm-4pm Monday Friday, weekend hours vary Prices = Varies depending on event, usually $10-30Website = https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=133437300029934 Since it opened in 1832, Teatro Tapia has a rich cultural history. To this day, the theater still hosts concerts, comedy and plays. Alongside the performances, you can also spectate the charming pale yellow, columned exterior and glimmering horseshoe seats.Centro de Bellas Artes Luis A. FerréLocation = Ave. Ponce De León Pda. 22 1/2, San Juan, 00907, Puerto RicoHours = 10am-6pm Monday to Saturday, 10am-4pm SundayPrices = Varies depending on eventWebsite = https://www.cba.pr.gov Established by philanthropist Luis A. Ferré, this center is at the heart of Puerto Rican culture and even hosted the tours of Puerto Rican descendant Lin Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton and In the Heights. Due to its four theater rooms, this venue hosts a range of rich cultural music whether you’re craving an opera or classical concert.

Best Beers and Breweries in Puerto Rico

Whether you’re an avid beer enthusiast or just want to taste an aspect of the island’s culture, Puerto Rico has a range of delicious and unique beers worth exploring. In recent years, Puerto Rico has experienced a boom in craft breweries. We’ve compiled a list of the island’s best breweries with suggestions of the ideal beers to try at each one. From fruity flavors to beers made to combat food waste, Puerto Rico has it all.Medalla Light, Compañía Cervecera de Puerto Rico, MayagüezWhen considering Puerto Rican beers, Medalla Light is the obvious choice. Dating back to 1980, this lager is the island’s first light beer. Brewed by Compañía Cervecera de Puerto Rico, this light lager deserves its popularity due to its refreshing, aromatic flavor. “Medalla” translates to medal in Spanish, which is reflected in the beer’s golden color. No trip to Puerto Rico is complete without trying one of these iconic beers.Ocean Lab Brewing Co., Isla VerdeSome of the highlights of Ocean Lab are the brewery’s cask/real ales which means that the beer has been re-fermented. Many of Ocean Lab’s beers are infused with tropical fruits, from grapefruit to blood orange, which add a unique Caribbean flair. Every beer has been planned with the island in mind such as Sunset Amber, which uses roasted and caramel malts to honor the breathtaking coastal views at Isla Verde. Old Harbor Brewery, CarolinaOriginating from Old San Juan, Old Harbor was the first craft microbrewery in Puerto Rico. Old Harbor produces a range of drinks including lagers, IPAs, pale and golden ales. Like Ocean Lab, Old Harbor honors its place of origin with beers named after Puerto Rico’s sites such as El Yunque National Forest. One of Old Harbor’s most highly-regarded brews is the Coqui, a light German lager that is the perfect refreshing antidote for the humid climate.Santurce Brewery, San JuanNew to the scene in San Juan, this nano-brewery is worth adding to your list. The Santurce Brewery offers two specialized drinks: a Santurce Pilsner and West Coast IPA. The latter is inspired by the Czech Pilsner and offers a fresh taste perfect for the beach. Check out their website to hear the creators Adrián and Juan explain their thought processes when creating their delicious recipes. Boxlab Brewing Company, AguadillaBoxlab is a craft brewery located in Aguadilla. Like others, Boxlab boasts a range of fruity beers such as the pineapple-infused Piñaza. If you’re looking to try unique beers, then the Cocotero is for you which is a stout made with toasted coconut milk - referred to as a “Stout for the Tropics”. Boxlab is always experimenting with new flavors such as introducing El Farolito IPA and The New Wave mango lager to celebrate National IPA Day.Del Oeste Brewery, MayagüezAlthough it is younger than some other microbreweries, Del Oeste deserves its place in Puerto Rico’s craft beer scene. Del Oeste primarily specializes in American, Belgian and German beers. The brewery has even collaborated with Puerto Rican rapper Residente (René Pérez) to create the Residente Maibock and Residente Tripel.R.E.B.L Brewery, UtuadoThis radical nanobrewery offers a range of unique flavors such as the REBLución which uses locally-sourced coffee grains and cocoa nibs. An even more unique beer is the Hogaza which is made with leftover bread to combat food waste. The leftover bread is toasted and combined with barley grains to create this delicious beer. Also, they love to collaborate with other breweries such as the Fusion pale ale which was made with Cerveza Cerros de Chena from San Bernardo in Santiago, Chile.Señorial Brewing Co., PonceEstablished in 2013, this nanobrewery produces an abundance of delicious beers such as the El Polvorín which is made from grains smoked with beech wood. Alternatively, the León Mayor is a Belgian Tripel with an alluringly sweet taste due to the addition of local honey.Zurc Bräuhaus, CoamoThis nanobrewery was founded by Juan Carlos Rivera Cruz, a Chemical Engineering Graduate which is reflected in the techniques used by the brewery itself. Specializing in German-style beers, one of their most highly-rated is the Zurcator which is a German Strong Dark Lager known as “liquid bread”.Dragon Stone Abbey Brewery, Río GrandeAlthough it is situated in Puerto Rico, this microbrewery is inspired by Belgian beer. One of their intriguing beers is the Hop Drifter which is an Indian Pale Lager that combines three different hops in every batch - no batch is exactly the same so it is worth a try to delve into its unique flavor. Another highlight is their 7 Monks Belgian Dubbel which combines seven different malts to create an amalgamation of caramel, toffee, prune, stone fruit and smoky flavors.Boquerón Brewing Co., Cabo RojoAs a family-run small batch brewery, Boquerón Brewing Co. names many of its beers after local sites such as Montones West Side IPA and El Morro Imperial Porte. Likewise, the company’s logo honors Los Morrillos Lighthouse, a historic element of the island. The brewery recommends specific beers for local cuisine such as treating yourself to a Boquerón Blonde Ale when tucking into Puerto Rican seafood. One of their most highly-rated beers is El Tinglar Porter which combines coffee, chocolate, nuts and a hint of cinnamon for a flavourful punch.The Aviator’s Brewery, San LorenzoThis aeronautical-themed brewery owes its theme to its founder Charles Peterson who was a pilot. Try the Vejigante stout which is made with coconut, organic cocoa and organic cocoa sugar or if you are craving red ale then Gallo Pinto is for you.Get the full experience at some of the best local barsIf you want bottles or cans of these beers to go, head to Puerto Rican supermarket chains such as Econo, Amigo or Supermax. However, these beers can also be experienced in the island’s plethora of bars. Here are some of the best bars to check out to experience Puerto Rican beer:La Taberna Lúpulo La Taberna Boricua, Hato ReyEl Tap, SanturceDylan’s Biergarden, HatilloAl Lado, AreciboRincon Beer Co., RinconRock & Go, Cabo RojoEl Grifo, CaguasBirriola, PoncePalmas Station Texaco, Cataño Caribbean Trading Company, El Yunque Rainforest FOK Brewing Co, CaguasCold Blood Brewery, QuebradillasBeer Box, Aguadilla

Best Rooftop Bars and Restaurants in San Juan

Puerto Rico has some amazing weather and views, what better way to enjoy them than socializing with friends at a glamorous rooftop location? Whether you want to sip a beverage while watching the sun go down or enjoy a romantic dinner spot with your significant other, there are a variety of places to choose from. Every location has its own unique vibe. ‍The Cannon Club - Restaurant & Steinway Piano BarMenu: https://app.oklulo.com/restaurant/c888ad37-1bee-4835-9266-bd82d9ba69e7/?scanned=trueRestaurant reservations: https://getseat.net/?channel=google#/public/online/reservation/reserveOr call (347) 474-7833Open Sundays and Mondays, 5pm to 11pm, Tuesday through Thursday from 5pm until 11:30pm. Friday and Saturdays, 5pm until 12am. Signature cocktails, tapas menu and a dinner menu are available. The chef offers delicious food focused on Spanish flavors. The romantic restaurant offers dining surrounded by gardens and foliage. Live classical jazz and instrumental music is performed daily. $20 to sit in the piano room with the live music. No cover to enter the club. ‍Eter Rooftop & Loungehttps://eterlounge.com/Reservations: https://eterlounge.com/pages/make-a-reservationMenu: https://www.facebook.com/eterrooftop/menu/Open every day, 11am to 11pm on Sunday through Thursday and 11am to 12am on Friday and Saturday. Eter offers sunset and 360 degree views of San Juan. They offer tapas, cocktails, brunch menu and a dinner menu that is seafood forward. Not only do they have an extensive cocktail, beer and wine menu but they have a mocktail menu as well. ‍Sunset Rooftophttps://www.facebook.com/sunsetrooftop.pr/Open Tuesday through Thursday 5pm to 12am. Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 2am. Sundays 12pm to 12am. Sunset is on the rooftop of The Wave hotel near the Condado lagoon. It’s a great place to catch a sunset, as its name implies, and take in the ocean views of Condado. They offer happy hour specials, karaoke and live music. See their Facebook page for upcoming events. ‍Bar Catedral Rooftop | Old San Juanhttps://www.facebook.com/barcatedralvsj/Open Thursday to Saturday from 5pm to 11pm and Sunday from 4pm to 10pm.Reservations recommended but not required: 939-588-4694In the heart of Old San Juan, on top of the Decanter Hotel. They have great panoramic sunset views and it is a relaxing place to enjoy a beverage with friends. It offers a full bar as well as a restaurant. They serve specialty cocktails, tapas and a menu that includes Lebanese, vegan and vegetarian options. The ingenious tapas menu is crafted by James Beard Award-nominee Maria Grubb.‍ARYA RooftopMenu: https://mhme.nu/qr/95480180-b528-4cbd-9549-6e51a0a440f2Open Monday 8am to 9pm, Tuesday through Friday 8am until 11pm, Saturday 8am to 11pm. Sunday 8am to 9pm. For reservations call (787) 705-9409In Condado at the top of OLV towers, the bar and restaurant offers exceptional Condado Lagoon and skyline views. While the rooftop pool and jacuzzi are for guests only, anyone can enjoy the bar and restaurant which serves breakfast, brunch and lunch. Indoor and outdoor seating available with reservation only. It features a vintage ‘77 Rolls Royce that has been converted to a DJ booth. ‍Casita Miramarhttps://www.facebook.com/casitamiramarpr/?paipv=0&eav=AfYgg1OlD24O6hHJzKv0o2xD6WZotV9A0No509iY6l-9Vdes83IitKCum9FCZ3zlVDY&_rdrOpen Monday, Wednesday, Thursday from 4pm to 10pm. Friday and Saturday 11:30am to 11pm. For reservations call: (787) 200-8227For an exceptional rooftop garden terrace dining experience Cuarto 16 fits the bill. Reservations are required. The chef cooks Puerto Rican dishes with mostly local products, some of which are grown on site. The menu is constantly evolving because they cook according to what is available that day based on what is caught or grown. ‍

Cacao Farms in Puerto Rico

Before there was coffee and sugarcane in Puerto Rico, there was cacao! Puerto Rican chocolate is now considered some of the best in the world. Centuries ago there were large plantations of cacao trees. The Cacao industry died off in the 17th century most likely due to a series of hurricanes that took place in the 1700’s. Even as the island recovered, the resurgence of cacao did not, due to the cheaper labor practices in Africa where much of the commercial cacao in the world is grown. The climate in Puerto Rico is perfectly suited for the cacao plant. You can still find it growing wild in the mountains, remnants of old plantations. The cacao industry has seen a revitalization by small farmers in the last 10 years. The largest producer of cacao and chocolate on the island is Cortés which is known for their famous chocolate bars. You can sample their goods at Chocobar Cortés locations in Viejo San Juan or Condado.For a hands-on experience and to learn more about the process of growing cacao and what it takes to produce chocolate, you’ll want to visit one of the cacao farms on the island. It is fascinating as there are many steps that go into producing a successful crop. The cacao flowers must be pollinated by insects and less than 10% of the flowers develop into cacao pods. There are several varieties of cacao that come from other regions in the Caribbean, with varying levels of bitterness and sweetness. The distinctive red, yellow or gold cacao pods grow directly from the trunk or branch of the small trees. Once the football-like pod is ripe, it must be opened and the pulpy seeds removed. The seeds are dried and fermented. Fermentation takes about 36-72 hours. Along with fermentation, roasting is necessary to develop the cacao flavor. The seeds must be dried to bring the moisture content from 55% to about 7.5%. “Winnowing” is the separation of the shell or hull from the bean or cacao nib. The cacao nib is bitter on its own. To develop chocolate it must be ground into a powder or made into a liquor with sugar.There’s definitely a science and art to the development of cacao from plant to production. Different manufacturers develop their own art into the flavor of the cacao and manufacturing of their product. Below are some great places to check out around the island.Finca de Cacao La PruVite in LuquilloThis is a small but sweet family owned operation with amazing views from the hillside. Reservations are necessary for a tour and/or breakfast in which they offer a beautiful spread. There are pastries, hot chocolate and cacao liquor available to purchase. They give some great history on the cacao varieties that come from other islands in the Caribbean. You can taste their cacao liquor, take home some cacao to add to coffee or make your own cocoa at home by adding sweetener. You can also see the process of how the cacao is turned into chocolate. If it’s been raining wear shoes you don’t mind getting muddy!Thursday through Saturdays 9:00 AM- 8:00 PMReservations needed. 17877105619Carr 988 km 12.3 Barrio Pitahaya sector Cuesta del gato, PR 00773Hacienda Chocolat PR in FajardoWalking tours are available in English or Spanish for $34. You will experience amazing views on the tour while you learn about the cacao farm. Tours conclude with light snacks, hot chocolate and samplings of different grades of chocolates.They also offer events and specialty tours such as wine or whiskey and chocolate tastings. Refer to their website or Facebook page for current events.Saturday and Sunday 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM787-637-5666Carretera 984, Cam. Los Polacos, Fajardo, PR 00738Hacienda Jeanmarie Chocolat in AguadaThis organic farm is the only one one the west side of the island offering tours. They use sustainable conservation practices. You’ll get to see other plants they grow on their farm in addition to the cacao. They started making chocolate in 2010 after finding cacao plants growing wild on their parents property. They were one of the first to start the resurgence of cacao in Puerto Rico. They offer classes on how to graft the cacao plants. Farm tours can be scheduled by contacting them but are typically only offered on weekends. They have products available for purchase at the end of your tour. Saturday and Sunday only, call for schedule or to make special arrangements. info@jeanmariechocolat.com787-464-1100Carretera 416 Km 8.1, Ramal los MendezBo Laguna, Aguada, PR 00602

Mortgage Companies in Puerto Rico and How to Choose One

Getting a mortgage in Puerto Rico can be challenging, particularly if you are working against the clock. Numerous factors impact the length of time it takes for your loan to be funded. Inheritance laws are not the same as they are stateside, which can greatly contribute to the sale of the home you are looking to purchase. Many parties can be involved in the sale of a property, meaning they all need to sign off for a deal to go through. The many holidays, different banking systems, and the type of property can also impact the time frame. Do your due diligence before selecting a lender to partner with for your loan. Mortgage BasicsDepending on the lender and other factors, it can take from one to several months to close a mortgage in Puerto Rico, though typically it can be done in 30-45 days. Holidays (especially around the long Christmas holiday), title companies, realtors, and the parties involved all contribute to the timeline.“The actual application and closing packages are in English only, which really is the result of local, state, and county registrar and recording offices not being bilingual in most cases,” according to Iris Sánchez, MoneyHouse MLO. Most banking entities have bilingual lenders on staff to ease acquiring a loan regardless of language preference. According to realtor.com, the “Current national rates are 6.41% for a 30-year fixed loan, 5.70% for a 15-year fixed loan and 5.86% for a 5-year ARM.” Rates, of course are affected by many factors such as credit rating, down payment, and type of loan. The minimum credit score needed to secure a conventional mortgage is 620; however some loan types, such as FHA loans, have a minimum 580 credit score. VA loans have no minimum credit score requirement, however lenders can set their own qualifications. Most banks require similar documentation for qualifying for a loan, with slight variations between lenders. Typical Mortgage Types Available in Puerto RicoUSDA/RuralThe government-backed loan allows for purchasing a primary residence up to 101% at a low fixed interest rate and low or zero money down. Subject to location and family income.FHA MortgageEach municipality has a maximum loan amount, allowed for primary residence only. They are attractive because they allow for debt consolidation and funds to be used for improvements or other uses. They generally have a low-interest rate and down payment. It does require mortgage insurance, which can be paid upfront or added to your mortgage.FHA 203K MortgageSimilar loan requirements as the FHA loan. 203K refers to the ability to borrow funds to convert a property into liveable conditions. The municipality establishes maximum limits. The loan amount includes estimates from DACO-approved contractors to perform the work. VA MortgageWith your Certificate of Eligibility, the US Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees the loan. Allowed for the purchase or refinancing of your primary residence up to 100% of its value. FNMA ConventionalRefinance or purchase your property for the lowest rate with this loan. If you qualify, you can also refinance your current mortgage to reduce terms and interest. Conventional Non-ConformingA flexible option for the purchase or refinance of a primary residence that combines terms and repayment plans with options such as “balloon” mortgages. Closing Costs Typically IncludeOrigination fee, mortgage discount, mortgage insurance premium (if applicable), homeowners insurance, withholding for property tax payment, credit report, appraisal, title search, plot plan, flood zone determination certificate, notary fees, document stamp tax on mortgage and/or legal costs. Closing costs are typically 2-6% of the loan amount. Most lenders require the following to qualify for a loan:Copy of purchase-sale deed, seller's contract, or evidence of payment delivered to the seller as a purchase-sell option. Proof of income (Salaried: Paystubs for the last 30 days, copy of W2 for the previous two years. Self-employed: Copy of the last two years of income tax returns) Cadastre number or property registration number.The last two months of your bank statements.A state-issued photo ID.A copy of the social security card for each applicant.How do you choose between a bank, loan officer, mortgage lender, and mortgage broker? A bank may only have one or very few lending sources. The loan officer represents the bank vs. the consumer and are often “entry-level” in terms of their education, as it’s not required. They take deposits and provide other banking services.A mortgage lender offers mortgage-only services and cannot take deposits. Rates and fees may be higher due to operating costs not covered by supplemental banking services. Loan officers are required to have entry-level and continuing education. As they focus solely on mortgages, they may have a quicker turnaround time on finalizing your loan.Mortgage brokers offer mortgage-only services and cannot receive deposits. They work with multiple wholesale lenders and programs, meaning they can provide you with competitive rates. They work for the consumer without any priority to a specific lender, making it the most competitive option for consumers to find the best rates and fees. Mortgage Brokers need a high level of experience and training as the platform they use to find the best loan for you can be quite complex. Mortgage Brokers and LendersCoLab Lending - Mortgage BrokerCoLab Lending is based in Pennsylvania but also serves Florida, Illinois, and Puerto Rico.Conventional Home Loans:Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM)Fixed-rate Condominium loansLow down payment loansJumbo loansGovernment Loans: FHA and 203k loans VHA loans USDA Rural loansReverse mortgagesSpecialty home loans for investment properties Money House PR - Mortgage LenderThey are a mortgage specialist in Puerto Rico, with several locations on the island and in Florida. All loan documents are offered in both Spanish and English. According to Iris Sánchez, a loan officer at Money House PR, “Loans are generally completed in 21 business days or less; however the process is highly driven by the borrowers as to their efforts in working with the mortgage loan originator as a team.”FHA loan FHA 203k VA loansRural loans Conventional loansNon-conforming loansJumbo loanSpecialty loans Refinance existing mortgageReverse mortgage VIG Mortgage- Mortgage Lender15-year established lender in Puerto Rico with one office location in San Juan.Rural loansConventional and conforming loans.VA loanFHA loan FHA 203k loanSolar LoansVIG 98Banks Offering Home LoansPopular MortgageAs one of the island's largest and most popular banks, they may be a good place to start if you have an existing account with them. FHAConventional ConformingRural DevelopmentVA Home LoanStreamline - lower interest rate on an existing loanConventional Non-ConformingFHA 203kMortgage Online | FirstBankFirst Bank is another large bank on the island that is very popular. They offer the ability to manage your mortgage online or through their app. You can get started by uploading most of your required documents online. Conventional ConformingNon-Conforming ConventionalFHA LoanStreamlineVA LoanStreamline 203k LoanRural LoanOriental BankWith numerous locations on the island, they offer various home loan options. Rural LoansFHA mortgage, 203KVA mortgageConforming and non-conformingLoans for repossessed homes and programs to prevent foreclosure on a home.PenFed Credit UnionTypically credit unions offer lower rates and fees as they are considered non-profit entities.New Loans:VA LoansConventionalJumbo LoansAdjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM)FHA LoanRefinance:Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL), otherwise known as a VA streamline loan.Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)Caribe Federal Credit UnionAnother competitive credit union option. FHA Loans VA LoansRural Land and Home LoansConventional LoansSecond Mortgages‍Be sure to reach out to several lenders before deciding which one is best for you. Ask neighbors and friends to find out who they funded their loan with and if they were happy with the process. Everyone has different experiences, circumstances, and finances that can impact their loan process. Most of all, practice patience. Even in the best scenarios, applying for and funding a mortgage can be trying. Ultimately, homeownership will make it all worthwhile.