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La mejor música en vivo en 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.

Las mejores cervezas y cervecerías de 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

Los mejores bares y restaurantes en azoteas de San Juan

Puerto Rico tiene un clima y unas vistas increíbles, ¿qué mejor manera de disfrutarlas que socializando con los amigos en una glamurosa azotea? Tanto si desea tomar una bebida mientras ve ponerse el sol como disfrutar de una cena romántica con su pareja, hay una gran variedad de lugares entre los que elegir. Cada lugar tiene su propio ambiente. ‍The Cannon Club - Restaurant & Steinway Piano BarMenú: https://app.oklulo.com/restaurant/c888ad37-1bee-4835-9266-bd82d9ba69e7/?scanned=trueRestaurant Reservas: https://getseat.net/?channel=google#/public/online/reservation/reserveOr Llame al (347) 474-7833Abierto domingos y lunes, de 17:00 a 23:00, de martes a jueves de 17:00 a 23:30. Viernes y sábados, de 17:00 a 24:00. Cócteles de autor, menú de tapas y menú de cena. El chef ofrece deliciosa comida centrada en los sabores españoles. El romántico restaurante ofrece cenas rodeadas de jardines y follaje. Todos los días hay actuaciones de jazz clásico y música instrumental en directo. 20 $ para sentarse en la sala de piano con la música en directo. No se paga entrada. ‍Eter Rooftop & Loungehttps://eterlounge.com/Reservations: https://eterlounge.com/pages/make-a-reservationMenu: https://www.facebook.com/eterrooftop/menu/Open todos los días, de 11 a 23 h de domingo a jueves y de 11 a 12 h los viernes y sábados. Eter ofrece puestas de sol y vistas de 360 grados de San Juan. Ofrecen tapas, cócteles, menú de brunch y un menú de cena en el que predomina el marisco. No sólo tienen una amplia carta de cócteles, cervezas y vinos, sino que también tienen una carta de mocktails. ‍Sunset Rooftophttps://www.facebook.com/sunsetrooftop.pr/Open De martes a jueves de 17:00 a 00:00. Viernes y sábados, de 12 a 2 de la madrugada. Domingos, de 12.00 a 24.00. Sunset está en la azotea del hotel The Wave, cerca de la laguna del Condado. Como su nombre indica, es un lugar estupendo para disfrutar de la puesta de sol y de las vistas del Condado. Ofrecen happy hour, karaoke y música en directo. Consulta su página de Facebook para ver los próximos eventos. ‍Bar Catedral Rooftop | Viejo San Juanhttps://www.facebook.com/barcatedralvsj/Open De jueves a sábado de 17:00 a 23:00 y los domingos de 16:00 a 22:00. Se recomienda reservar, pero no es obligatorio: 939-588-4694En el corazón del Viejo San Juan, en lo alto del Hotel Decanter. Tienen unas estupendas vistas panorámicas de la puesta de sol y es un lugar relajante para disfrutar de una bebida con los amigos. Ofrece un bar completo, así como un restaurante. Sirven cócteles especiales, tapas y un menú que incluye opciones libanesas, veganas y vegetarianas. El ingenioso menú de tapas está elaborado por Maria Grubb, nominada a los premios James Beard.‍ARYA RooftopMenu: https://mhme.nu/qr/95480180-b528-4cbd-9549-6e51a0a440f2Open Lunes de 8h a 21h, de martes a viernes de 8h a 23h, sábados de 8h a 23h. Domingo de 8am a 9pm. Para reservas llame al (787) 705-9409En Condado, en lo alto de las torres OLV, el bar y restaurante ofrece unas vistas excepcionales de la Laguna del Condado y del horizonte. Aunque la piscina y el jacuzzi de la azotea son sólo para huéspedes, cualquiera puede disfrutar del bar y restaurante que sirve desayunos, brunch y almuerzos. Se puede comer tanto en el interior como en el exterior previa reserva. Cuenta con un Rolls Royce del 77 de época convertido en cabina de DJ. ‍Casita Miramarhttps://www.facebook.com/casitamiramarpr/?paipv=0&eav=AfYgg1OlD24O6hHJzKv0o2xD6WZotV9A0No509iY6l-9Vdes83IitKCum9FCZ3zlVDY&_rdrOpen Lunes, miércoles y jueves de 16:00 a 22:00. Viernes y sábado de 11:30am a 11pm. Para reservas llame al: (787) 200-8227 Para una experiencia excepcional en la terraza del jardín de la azotea Cuarto 16 encaja a la perfección. Es necesario reservar. El chef cocina platos puertorriqueños con productos locales en su mayoría, algunos de los cuales se cultivan in situ. El menú evoluciona constantemente porque cocinan según lo que esté disponible ese día en función de lo que se pesque o se cultive. ‍

Fincas de cacao en Puerto Rico

Antes de que hubiera café y caña de azúcar en Puerto Rico, ¡había cacao! El chocolate puertorriqueño está considerado uno de los mejores del mundo. Hace siglos había grandes plantaciones de árboles de cacao. La industria del cacao desapareció en el siglo XVII, probablemente debido a una serie de huracanes que tuvieron lugar en el siglo XVIII. Aunque la isla se recuperó, el resurgimiento del cacao no lo hizo, debido a las prácticas laborales más baratas de África, donde se cultiva gran parte del cacao comercial del mundo. El clima de Puerto Rico es perfecto para la planta del cacao. Aún se puede encontrar en estado silvestre en las montañas, vestigios de antiguas plantaciones. La industria del cacao ha experimentado una revitalización por parte de los pequeños agricultores en los últimos 10 años. El mayor productor de cacao y chocolate de la isla es Cortés, conocido por sus famosas tabletas de chocolate. Se pueden degustar sus productos en los locales de Chocobar Cortés en el Viejo San Juan o Condado. Para vivir una experiencia práctica y aprender más sobre el proceso de cultivo del cacao y lo que se necesita para producir chocolate, hay que visitar una de las granjas de cacao de la isla. Es fascinante, porque son muchos los pasos que hay que dar para obtener una buena cosecha. Las flores del cacao deben ser polinizadas por insectos y menos del 10% de las flores se convierten en vainas de cacao. Existen diversas variedades de cacao procedentes de otras regiones del Caribe, con distintos niveles de amargor y dulzor. Las características vainas de cacao rojas, amarillas o doradas crecen directamente del tronco o las ramas de los pequeños árboles. Una vez maduras, se abren y se extraen las semillas pulposas. Las semillas se secan y fermentan. La fermentación dura entre 36 y 72 horas. Junto con la fermentación, el tostado es necesario para desarrollar el sabor del cacao. Las semillas deben secarse para reducir el contenido de humedad del 55% al 7,5% aproximadamente. El "descascarillado" es la separación de la cáscara del grano de cacao. La semilla de cacao es amarga por sí sola. Para obtener chocolate, hay que molerlo y convertirlo en polvo o en licor con azúcar. Los distintos fabricantes desarrollan su propio arte en el sabor del cacao y la fabricación de su producto. Finca de Cacao La PruVite en LuquilloEsta es una pequeña pero dulce operación familiar con increíbles vistas desde la ladera. Es necesario reservar para un tour y/o desayuno en el que ofrecen una hermosa variedad. Hay pasteles, chocolate caliente y licor de cacao disponibles para comprar. Se explica la historia de las variedades de cacao procedentes de otras islas del Caribe. Puedes probar su licor de cacao, llevarte a casa cacao para añadir al café o preparar tu propio cacao en casa añadiéndole edulcorante. También puedes ver el proceso de transformación del cacao en chocolate. Si ha llovido, lleva calzado que no te importe manchar de barro. De jueves a sábado, de 9:00 a 20:00. Se necesita reserva. 17877105619Carr 988 km 12.3 Barrio Pitahaya sector Cuesta del gato, PR 00773Hacienda Chocolat PR en FajardoLos tours a pie están disponibles en inglés o español por $34. Experimentarás vistas asombrosas en el tour mientras aprendes sobre la finca de cacao. También ofrecen eventos y recorridos especiales, como catas de vino, whisky y chocolate. Consulte su sitio web o su página de Facebook para conocer los eventos actuales.Sábados y domingos de 10:00 AM a 2:00 PM787-637-5666Carretera 984, Cam. Los Polacos, Fajardo, PR 00738Hacienda Jeanmarie Chocolat en AguadaEsta finca orgánica es la única del oeste de la isla que ofrece tours. Utilizan prácticas de conservación sostenibles. Podrás ver otras plantas que cultivan en su finca además del cacao. Empezaron a hacer chocolate en 2010 tras encontrar plantas de cacao que crecían silvestres en la propiedad de sus padres. Fueron uno de los primeros en iniciar el resurgimiento del cacao en Puerto Rico. Ofrecen clases sobre cómo injertar las plantas de cacao. Se pueden programar visitas a la granja poniéndose en contacto con ellos, pero normalmente sólo se ofrecen los fines de semana. Al final de la visita se pueden adquirir productos. Sábados y domingos solamente, llame para el horario o para hacer arreglos especiales. info@jeanmariechocolat.com787-464-1100Carretera 416 Km 8.1, Ramal los MendezBo Laguna, Aguada, PR 00602

Compañías hipotecarias en Puerto Rico y cómo elegir una

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.