Literature

You are correct about il. But it is a good source to get you started as long as you take things with a grain of salt (sometimes a large grain). Then Expat forums like this one to clarify things.
Good luck in your search.

Thank you, it sounds like I am on the right track. It is a good thing I am starting this research a few years ahead of time.

They don't move anyone, they're simply a point of reference for ex pats who are mostly where they are becasue IL writes a number of reports on different locations, However they also have services they sell or have close affiliations with other people selling services. It's up to you to do the proper research and I suggest being very thorough. You'll find ample information if you use your computer or are literate in using one.

I just noticed your few years comments! In a few years Ecuador will be priced like Costa Rica and others just like Belize.

my personal opinion after living here 15 odd months...Ecuador is certainly over-rated as a dream retirement destination...prices are way above what websites like IL would have you believe...they often tell you rates that refer to areas where one used to western urban life could not possibly live in! Situation in cities is very different and if you do not research this aspect well, you could be in for a very rude shock!

Unless you're only referring to websites, you might check out the books How To Retire Overseas by Kathleen Peddicord and Retirement Without Borders by Barry Golson. Both are available for Kindle. If your library doesn't have the books, you can get them through Interlibrary Loan.

Thank you dreams, I will check out those books.

Opinions vary on IL. From own point of view, and general observations people with very little travel experience use IL as a major reference point, and people with much more travel experience tend to not rely on IL very heavily.

Bear in mind many of the writers for not only IL, but other publications don't live in the area, and if they do have only lived there for a short time. So they have limited experience, and not really the depth and knowledge that is required to really give an unbiased objective report.

As always buyer beware, and as have stated before, and will again. There are economic realities where ever you go. Certainly can live in Ecuador, and other Latin American countries pretty well for much cheaper, but still need to be realistic. Only going to be so much you can do or get on a limited budget. Not going to live like a King or Queen for cheap.

Yes, I totally agree with the post above and also like to add one more point: Most sites like IL earn a living from broker commissions and higher the sale value, more they earn...so they often try to manipulate real estate prices...so you really need to be on your guard and cross-check, and double, triple check everything you read.

Also, some of my friends that have lived both in Ecuador, and Argentina have been of the opinion that Argentina is cheaper than Ecuador for a middle class life style...well, second hand information, but none the less information on which you could research some...

Thanks everyone, I am so happy that I found this site. I kind of knew that IL was in it for the profits. They are always trying to sell me on something. I don't plan on doing any buying. I want to rent for a long long time while I make informed decisions, and the only way to do that is through experience and the experiences shared by others.

Relax Greginky, you'll be just fine.

You are taking the time to get various opinions, both good and bad, and are now going to see things for yourself. Great idea to rent for a good while, and see if it's really a good fit or not for you. Things don't work out then have only lost a little money and time, and if things do work out, then that much the better for you. Is about finding the right fit for you personally.