Why some expats could be destroying Ecuador

Why some expats could be destroying Ecuador 

This is an interesting topic that has recently been brought to my attention. Is it really true? Is it possible that some expats could be destroying Ecuador? At first, I thought it could be the overcrowding in certain hotspots. I do realise that more and more expats seem to reside in the same area and the community is growing largely, so I have listened to some views from a mixed group of Ecuadorians and here are some key points which I totally agree with after speaking about, 

To begin, yes, expats are trying to change areas to suit their needs and not fit into society; however, is this intentional? Maybe bars,cafes, restaurants, that sort of thing, in my eyes, is normal. People who are not retired need to make a living,which also gives people a choice on what food they eat, but if it is affecting an Ecuadorian business because of cheaper prices, then yes, they may have a point here, which brings me onto the main issue that has been highlighted here.

Real Estate 

This really is ugly at the moment, and I hadn't realised until it was pointed out to me, but expats that are looking to make money big time over here are the ones who buy up land in cash, build department complexes etc and charge a ridiculous price for them both for sale and for rent,which no Ecuadorian can afford.

A doctor's salary isn't bad depending on the level, but I briefly commented on a 3 bedroom property on the first floor that was going for $70,000; nice area, etc. He said it was doable, but he felt it was quite expensive and he could get better for the same price or for less. So he nearly had a heart attack when I showed him a new listing that I found on the internet, a 2 bedroom apartment on the beach, which isn't really developed yet, as it still doesn't have basic amenities, but this was going for $205,000, so quite a few swear words there. Who the hell puts a tag on a property like that? No intention of selling to locals, but rather to another foreign MUG! Yes, a MUG, because only a complete idiot would go there and say that is reasonable. 

So, yes, I am beginning to understand what some people are thinking now. Too many properties are being built at exorbitant prices, which may eventually drive some locals out. What is good for the goose is good for the gander. If a foreigner can command that price and high rent, why can't an Ecuadorian? Simply, no one has that kind of money.

So coming into this country and throwing your weight around because you have money is so wrong. By all means, set yourself up in a nice house. If you need to earn a small income, there are many ways, but day light robbery to hit the big time is pretty bad. Maybe you should have done this in your own country before you came here. 

This is the main conversation I have with people here now Why could some expats be destroying Ecuador,

I myself live like an Ecuadorian, being married to one. I respect the culture. I do not try to change things here. I am still here as a guest in a foreign country. Nothing more than that. It is me that has to adjust, which isn´t easy. We all have our daily struggles and don't agree with certain things over here. 

Is this posting something to worry about if you are an Ecuadorian? Yes, if foreigners continue to buy into these houses, but honestly, the way the country is now, I think it will be very hard for these expats to sell. Maybe a schoolboy's error that they may see in time. But if you are thinking of becoming an expat here, think out of the box, don't follow the sheep. I hope this post explains why some expats could be destroying Ecuador. Some input on this would be great, as there are always two sides to a story. Maybe this is good for the country in other ways as well. Leave a comment below and let's voice some opinions.