Find your agent
Assisting our clients is extremely important to CENTURY 21 Ballena Properties and to enhance this experience we also represent “Ballena Homes“, a construction management company that offers a complete range of professional services and innovative construction technologies to assist our clients in building the home of their dreams.
The sales team, composed of Marcel, Becca, Bill, Karen, Dan, Estefanny, Kimberly, Axel, Diego, Alvaro, Charisse, Sasha and Daniel are able to offer service in seven languages and all of them are invested in Costa Rica with years of business experience and knowledge of the Real Estate marketplace.
CENTURY 21 Ballena Properties Real Estate Team
MARCEL VAN WILLIGEN
Marcel Van Willigen is the Broker/Co-Owner of CENTURY 21 Ballena Properties and has been residing in the Ojochal area since 1999. Originally from the Netherlands, Marcel holds a degree in Business and Commerce. After serving his country in the Royal Dutch Army for 6 years, he joined Lombard International Assurance in Luxembourg as an account executive.
During a vacation to Costa Rica, away from the monotony of business meetings and formal attires, Marcel was captivated by the country’s energy and decided to make the southern coast his home. Over the years, he has managed the Hotel Posada in Playa Tortuga and worked in sales and marketing with the Ventana Del Pacífico development company, where he gained extensive experience in the real estate sales and land development business. He also managed their guest house and hosted guided property tours, introducing numerous clients to the beauty of the Ballena Coast.
With years of experience under his belt, Marcel is now using his expertise to manage Century 21 Ballena Properties. His knowledge of the area, developments, and available properties is invaluable to the success of the business. Marcel is fluent in five languages, making communication with a diverse client base of both sellers and buyers seamless. Contact Marcel to experience the Costa Rican “Pura Vida” lifestyle firsthand.
Achievements
Becca Kennedy
Broker/Co-Owner is..
Becca is a passionate real estate agent based in Houston, Texas, where she spearheads the sales and marketing initiatives for CENTURY 21 Ballena Properties. With a background in psychology, Becca brings a unique understanding of the needs and desires of her clients.
As a mother of two and a contributing member in the management of 18 diverse companies within MDK Enterprises, ranging from oil technology and drilling to software and real estate, Becca has exceptional multitasking and time management skills. Her experience across various sectors provides her with invaluable insights and a broad network, making her a strategic ally for her clients in the competitive Texas real estate market.
KAREN RATH
Karen is an enthusiastic member of the community and enjoys everything the southern zone has to offer. She moved to Ojochal in 2013 with her husband and son and brings with her 25 years of experience in tourism, marketing and real estate. She has an impressive degree of creative energy, integrity and dedication to client service combined with an inherent ability to relate warmly to people she meets.
In Karen’s words ‘Growing up surrounded by the natural beauty of Canada’s west coast and then traveling extensively around the world has given me the love and appreciation for natural beauty. This is why I am here and explains my zeal to help others discover this paradise I have found’.
Please call Karen anytime without obligation, she is ready to go to work for you today!
Achievements
DAN LANCINGER
As a 20 year resident of the South Pacific zone, Dan has the most intimate knowledge and experience of this region.
Coming from various backgrounds and living in different countries, Dan has the ability to communicate in many languages. After business and marketing graduation he launched his career on the outskirts of Toronto where he began in home remodeling. This has eventually led into home design and construction that was further expanded into Costa Rica. His knowledge of the field and excellent negotiation skills have taken him across all the fields in the construction department. From simple renos to delicate government jobs to managing multi million dollar projects, he treats all levels of his customers with the same respect.
It is thanks to his exceptionally loyal clientele, personal referrals and repeat business that formed the foundation of his career. After the sale of his hotel he found himself in the right time and place to expand further. It is this, along with his passion for the housing industry that led Dan into real estate and joining the C21 team.
AXEL MORALES
Axel is a Costa Rican who is passionate about the development and protection of his country in areas such as biodiversity, tourism and real state.
Tourism was one of the first gates that provided him with experience in hospitality management in different countries. After 4 years, he came back to Costa Rica to seek for opportunities in the Southern Pacific Region because that is where most of the prestigious and sustainable hospitality projects are located. Axel has been involved in the hospitality industry for 5 years since his return. This journey made him gain experience in customer service and address the real estate field.
The desire of supporting others to build their dreams as he did himself is one of the most important goals in his live. For this reason, being part of Century 21 Ballena Properties and help opening their New Office in Perez Zeledon is one of the first steps to materialize that goal, as well as to learn how to promote sustainable development whilst protecting the biodiversity in this beautiful country.
CHARISSE MILLER
After working in the real estate industry for 8 years, Charisse and her husband decided to sell their businesses, numerous properties, and move to Costa Rica! They have two adopted children from Haiti, and wanted to give them a better life than they could in the US.
Charisse is efficient, responsive, and has over 15 successful years in the customer service industry. She is ready to bring you her contagiously bright and likable energy, and will do whatever it takes to help you find your dream property and life!
Having traveled to over 40 countries, Charisse is cultured, understanding, and accepting of all beliefs and lifestyles.
As an active member of the community, volunteering at both the Family Support Center and Alturas Sanctuary, Charisse is all about serving others and will do the same for you!
DIEGO CHEVEZ
I am Diego Chevez, born and raised in Uvita when it was still wild and undeveloped; at that time there was no Asada water, no electricity and no roads just horse trails. I grew up close to nature and learned a lot about environmental practices. In 2014 I was the National SUP Champion and represented Costa Rica in the Central American Surfing Games. This allowed me to travel extensively and meet many people.
I studied tourism and hospitality at INA, Cenecoop and ICETur. I have been active in the tourism industry and rental management for the last 15 years. During these years I acquired great people and communication skills in Spanish and English, I really enjoy helping and sharing my knowledge with other people. I am excited to venture into the Real Estate industry and continue to help others in realizing their dreams.
Sasha Jiménez Lapierre
I’ve had the privilege of being born and raised in this magnificent nation. My roots trace back to the picturesque southern coast of Costa Rica, but I’ve had the opportunity to reside in various regions throughout the country. With dual nationality as a French Canadian and Costa Rican, I am proficient in Spanish, French, and English.
During my five-year stay in Montreal, I immersed myself in a distinctly different way of life, providing me with a broader perspective. It was this experience that fueled my decision to embark on a new venture in the real estate industry, driven by my desire to assist individuals in creating their ideal homes in my beloved homeland. Whether they seek to embrace the Pura Vida Lifestyle or wish to capitalize on the abundant opportunities along the Ballena Coast, I aim to guide and support them.
If you are seeking expert advice and assistance, please reach out to me, and together we will discover your dream property or investment in the splendid Costa Ballena. Don’t just rely on others’ stories—come and experience it for yourself!
Daniel Hernández
With a robust 20-year residence in Costa Rica’s southern region, I’m Daniel Hernández—your trustworthy real estate partner, specializing in Pérez Zeledón and the Osa canton. My knowledge spans a spectrum of properties, from farms and residences to commercial spaces and land.
Fueled by a genuine passion for nature and architecture, I offer a straightforward and practical approach to real estate. In addition to my real estate work, I’m a practicing physician with a focus on natural medicine, bringing a grounded perspective to well-being.
In early 2023, I founded Oomfocus—an innovative digital marketing enterprise specializing in real estate photography and captivating Drone imagery. This venture not only enhances my marketing strategies but ensures a visually compelling portrayal of properties, setting them apart in the competitive market.
Beyond real estate, my commitment to holistic well-being adds a down-to-earth layer to our collaboration. Whether you’re searching for a property or seeking practical insights, I’m here to guide you through the process with clarity and sincerity.
I’m committed to providing you with dependable service and a grounded perspective, turning your aspirations into reality.
Rita Lucas
Originally from Alberta, Canada, I first discovered Costa Rica in 2000—and it quickly captured my heart. After many years of dividing my time between the two countries, my late husband and I made the full move in 2012, driving from Calgary to settle on our acreage in the hills above Ojochal. From that moment, Costa Rica truly became “home.”
With a background as a teacher, business owner, and entrepreneur, I bring a unique blend of professionalism, resourcefulness, and personal insight to my work. Today, I specialize in helping others navigate life in Costa Rica with ease—whether that means finding the right property, completing residency processes, opening bank accounts, or managing the practical details of everyday living. My clients appreciate my hands-on support, local knowledge, and reputation for reliability.
Deeply rooted in the Ojochal community, I am a founding member of the Family Support Center and have served on several local boards and committees. These experiences not only connect me to the heart of the community but also give me valuable insight into what makes this region such a special place to live.
I am committed to helping others establish themselves in Costa Rica with confidence and peace of mind. Whether you’re searching for the perfect property or settling into your new life here, I provide personalized guidance and trusted support every step of the way.
If you’re looking for expert advice and a grounded perspective on life on the Ballena Coast, I’d be delighted to help turn your vision into reality.
