About Us
Meet The Team Behind Ecovillages
Patrick Hiebert
FOUNDER & CEO
Patrick Hiebert is one of the founders and the CEO of EcoVillages and Vida Verde Agroforestry.
Patrick is a Canadian, now living in Latin America, who has been creating communities for several decades. After founding several high tech software companies and selling them, Patrick and his son Spencer, lived on a boat and sailed the ocean. It was here that they honed their craft of sustainable living, generating their own power and fresh water, and focusing on freedom and sustainability.
Always breaking new ground in freedom, eco-sensible and sustainable community design and Agroforestry areas, Patrick uses his deep understanding of technology to not only guide the design and development of highly desirable homes and intentional communities but also to find ways to provide freedom oriented lives for his clients.
EcoVillages is creating “Veritas Village” communities throughout Latin America. They are communities based on the “F.I.R.S.T.” philosophy (Freedom, Independence, Resilience, Sustainability and Transparency) and incorporating these philosophical pillars into every aspect of living.
Spencer Hiebert
FOUNDER & PRESIDENT
Spencer Hiebert is a Partner and Co-Founder of EcoVillages.Life, a tiny/eco home and sustainable community design and marketing company.
After growing up sailing with his father and even living on boats together, Spencer developed a passion for sailing, and the sustainable lifestyles that come with it. Spencer would go on to living on a 30’ sailboat while working in the Marine Industry in Canada, and between that and assisting his father on his off grid projects in Nicaragua, Spencer gained a lot of hands on experience working with off grid systems. The combination of this experience and actually living the lifestyle created a very effective knowledge base for what was to come.
In 2019 when the COVID pandemic hit, Spencer found himself in Belize while the initial lockdowns were happening. Having the extra time while in lockdown the idea was born to create a full community of off-grid tiny homes. The team was put together and work started on designing the community that would eventually be known as the EVA community (Eco-Village Asuchillo). Asuchillo being the world class surf beach that resides in front of the EVA community.
Since that time, Spencer and the EcoVillages team have designed many eco-communities with homes that support a large variety of lifestyles. From true off-grid eco, tiny homes, to full sized homes and condos that still put an emphasis on eco-friendly and green living, these homes are not only designed to be good for the planet, but will save you money as well.
Management Team
Andrea Martinez
SALES DIRECTOR
Andrea, a native of Ecuador and fluent in Spanish and English, is a Pediatrician who is also a Community and Home Specialist because of her love for our communities. Andrea’s understanding of what people are looking for makes her the perfect person to help new residents find their comfort zone.
Herman Gallegos
CHIEF ARCHITECT
Herman, a Nicaraguan, has 15+ years of experience in residential and commercial design as well as in designing hospitality and cultural spaces. Herman has worked with the company founders for many years, understands the market and leads our team of architects.
Mikkel Thorup
PARTNER & BOARD MEMBER
Mikkel Thorup is the world’s most sought-after expat consultant. He focuses on helping high-net-worth private clients to legally mitigate tax liabilities, obtain a second residency and citizenship, and assemble a portfolio of foreign investments, including international real estate, timber plantations, agricultural land and other hard-money tangible assets.
A world traveller since his teens, Mikkel Thorup has learned his craft in three unique and unconventional ways; first, by living it himself, continuously pushing the boundaries and testing new ideas around the globe; next, from diligent and intense study consuming over 2000 books and courses on the subject; and finally, by apprenticing and learning directly from the world's top legal experts in his field. Mikkel has dedicated himself for over two decades to building this mountain of knowledge, one that is not constrained by languages, cultures, or borders. He now works one-on-one with private clients utilizing this combination of hard-won experience and in-depth knowledge and has helped hundreds of people to secure their new lives abroad.
What kind of community are we creating:
The Community Philosophy
F.I.R.S.T certified community and what does that really mean?
Freedom • Independence • Resiliency
• Sustainability • Transparency
But also, Enjoyment!
Community centers with various activities, including amphitheaters for live music and shows, markets, shops and workshops with local experts so you can learn things and enjoy life.
Convenience
Location is the most important decision and is why we were not quick to jump on the first land options we found.
The Basics
Food, water, and energy independent community.
Why are we creating it and who is it for
Why create Veritas Village?
- A place for Freedom-oriented people to live amongst like-minded individuals.
- Get away from political divisiveness
- Remain anonymous in today’s ever increasing authoritarian governments and social credit score concepts.
- Create an environment to live without reliance on government or corporations.
A place to grow our own food
Sustainability and independence while living in harmony with the local people.Bitcoin as currency
A place where all transactions can be done in Bitcoin for financial independence.
HOA decisions via a DAO
Using a Decentralized Autonomous Organization to vote for all decisions regarding the community. Full transparency and fairness. No HOA Board or President!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
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Why invest in a property in Panama?Panama is a growing country with a stable and expanding economy. Additionally, it is a popular tourist destination, which means there is a constant demand for rental properties.
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How can I buy a property in Panama?You can buy a property in Panama as a foreigner. However, it is important to have a local lawyer to help you navigate the legal process.
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What is the process for buying a property in Panama?The process for buying a property in Panama starts with the signing of a purchase and sale contract between the buyer and the seller. After that, it is necessary to register the property in the Public Registry. The buyer must also pay transfer taxes and register the property in their own name.
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How can I finance the purchase of a property in Panama?Banks in Panama usually require foreign buyers to provide a significant down payment, usually around 30% of the property value. However, it is important to talk to your bank and find out what the specific requirements are for financing a property in Panama.
Questions & Answers
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How can I purchase a property in Veritas Panama?
To purchase a property, you can contact the Veritas Panama sales team directly, who will guide you through the process, including selecting a plot and customizing your home.
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What is the starting price for homes in Veritas Panama?
The starting price for homes in Veritas Panama varies depending on the size and customization, but all options offer a blend of luxury and self-sufficiency. Lots are starting at $70,000 USD and homes as low as $129,000 USD.
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Are there financing options available to purchase a home in Veritas Panama?
Yes, Veritas Panama offers vendor financing options for the land to suit the needs of different buyers, including expats looking to invest in a luxury property. For the homes, the Veritas team can assist with finding a financing option that will work for you.
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What is the process for customizing my home at Veritas Panama?
After selecting your plot, the Veritas Panama team will work with you to design and customize your home, ensuring it meets your needs and preferences for luxurious off-grid living.
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How soon can construction start on new homes?
Construction can start once the title transfer process and building permits are completed, which typically takes a few months.
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How is the solar energy system structured?
Each home will have its own solar system, with panels on the roof or carport, designed for high efficiency in the tropical climate.
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Are there EV chargers for electric vehicles?
Solar-powered charging is possible directly from the home’s system. Additionally, a carport can be built with a solar roof to expand the charging capabilities of the home and car.
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How does Veritas Panama handle property transactions?
Property transactions at Veritas Panama are streamlined and secure, with the option to use Bitcoin or traditional currencies, depending on your preference.
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What are the annual HOA fees at Veritas Panama?
Annual HOA fees vary based on property size and amenities but are managed transparently through the community’s Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO).
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What kind of customer support is available during and after the purchase?
Veritas Panama offers dedicated customer support throughout the buying process and continues to assist residents with any needs post-purchase.
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Can I purchase a property remotely if I am not currently in Panama?
Yes, remote purchases are possible, with the Veritas Panama team facilitating virtual tours, digital contracts, and secure online transactions.
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How quickly can I move into my new home after purchase?
Move-in times depend on the level of customization and construction, but the Veritas Panama team strives to ensure a smooth and timely transition. Once construction begins, build times are estimated to take 10-14 months, depending on the home model.