These barrios offer elegant tree lined streets, peace and quiet, but residences are walled and have many guards. Few foreigners live outside San Salvador or on of its surrounding districts, such as Santa Ana, San Miguel, or Sonsonante. Most of the foreign population own or rent homes or apartments in Colonia Escalon, Colonia San Benito, Colonia San Francisco, or Colonia Altamira. These homes are located on half acre lots and have at least four bedrooms, swimming pool and maids quarters. Most of these moderate priced neighborhoods are located on the outskirts of the older, wealthier areas.
Foreigners can own private land in El Salvador, including beach front, without restrictions.
All property is registered in the Instituto Libertad y Progreso, a state owned registry that clearly identifies the owner of the property. The accuracy of this registry, which is currently being computerized, makes the need for property insurance obsolete. This type of registry system is common in Central America and is considered a safe way to guarantee ownership.