Autor: ajimenez

How to buy property in Costa Rica

Purchasing or selling property in Costa Rica can seem like an uncertain endeavor, especially if you believe everything you read on the internet. However, the process should be enjoyable and educational. In this explanation, the goal is to guide you step-by-step on what is the modern and standard process of purchasing and selling a property in Costa Rica (2018).

The process normally begins with an offer on the property. This process usually consists of the realtor(s) presenting an offer on your behalf, based on the asking price. This can be countered between Buyer and Seller. An accepted offer is one signed by both Buyer and Seller, that contains the basic conditions and terms. The offer is not to be confused by the binding “Sales and Purchase Agreement”, but is a letter of intent to show interest and the basic items of acceptance. 

After the Offer to Purchase has been accepted by the Parties, then the Seller and Buyer proceed to a “Promissory Sales and Purchase Agreement.” This is a binding agreement between the parties and normally drawn up by the Buyer’s attorney and reviewed by Seller’s attorney. This contract normally requires that the Buyer place 10% of the purchase price into Escrow, as earnest money, during the due diligence term of the contract. Sometimes this amount is more and sometimes it is less, depending on how it was negotiated in the “Offer to Purchase”. The “Promissory Sales and Purchase Agreement”, commonly referred to as the “S.P.A.”, uses all the terms of the “Offer to Purchase” – “O.T.P.” and adds more information and other legal clauses. The S.P.A. also includes the purchase price, terms of the due diligence, a broader description of the property, what it includes as well as Buyer’s specific requests and Seller warranties. Do you want to know more about a S.P.A? Read our previous blog. 

What is due diligence? 

The due diligence term is the time for the Buyer to review the property while under contract (S.P.A.). This study is normally done between the Buyer’s attorney and the realtors. The due diligence itself varies depending on the budget of the Buyer and the type of property. There is standard due diligence that is required by law for attorney/Notary Public to do upon the offer and to check again at Closing. The required ones are mainly the review of the registered Title and survey to ensure that no liens or annotations are on the property. 

Those as well as other Due Diligence studies may include (at Buyer’s discretion):

Soil studies

This study involves engineers testing the soil to verify that the soil will support building or the type of project you have planned. The price varies depending on the company, the property location and how many parts of the property you need tested. This is coordinated normally with the realtors and Buyer’s attorney. It is important to request in advance, that the study be in English, if you don’t speak fluent Spanish. Also, this should be scheduled right after the contract (SPA) is signed, because it can take 3 weeks to get the final report.

Zoning Use study (Uso de Suelo)

This is one of the standard documents when there is no existing construction or when there is construction, but the buyer would like to build more. This is a document issued by the local Municipality stating that the property location, per the zoning plan, is suitable for the type of building you plan to do. This document also states the percentage of construction allowed per the type of use granted. This document is required upon building, but is not a building permit. It expires after one year, therefore if you build within the year of closing, you can use it. If not, you will need another one when you apply for building permits. This document usually takes one business week to obtain from the local Municipality.

Title Study and Study of registration of Survey

These two items are standard and required to be done by the closing attorney/Notary Public upon creation of the SPA and also on the day of closing, in case something has changed between the contract date and closing date. The National Registry database provides key information for the title, including: Property registration number, registered boundaries, natural description, basic location, size, survey number and any registered easements, (right-of-ways), historical references, restrictions, annotations, mortgages, liens and any other registered item that affects the title. The survey registration review is to confirm that the registered survey is the one that is listed on the title and that there is no ‘advisory” on the survey that would tell you that there is an issue with the survey. The Buyer’s attorney will order any of the documents that are listed in the national registry; they are available for review and confirm the location of the right-of-ways and investigate regarding any annotations, liens and mortgages that may be on the property- all of which should be disclosed to Buyer in the beginning, if shown on title.

What is an easement (right-of-way)? 

An easement, called “Servidumbre” in Spanish, refers to the right of access from one property to the other. There are many varieties of easements, including right of passage with vehicles, water easements, electric easements, view easements, ecological easements, and more. Each property owner designates a portion of their land which should be defined by a specific length, route and width, so that water pipes can run over another’s property or so that electrical lines can run through a property. These easements can also be done on a mother property and then when the subdivisions of lots are done, the reference to the mother property is included on the newly subdivided lots, but do not actually touch them physically. Therefore, the easements need to be reviewed carefully during the due diligence process.

Access

During the due diligence process, access to the property needs to be confirmed. The survey will show the access that was used to make the survey- which may be a public road or an easement.

What is a survey? 

The survey is the actual drawing of the property, which is registered with the technical criteria including GPS points, measurement and reference to property registration, by a licensed Topographer in Costa Rica. If the property is to be subdivided from a Mother Property, then the survey may need something called a Visado, which is an additional Municipal seal for subdivision. This needs to be checked right away, upon doing the S.P.A. as well.

Taxes 

The attorney will check to make sure the property is free of taxes as well as the Seller Corporation, if the property is held by Seller in a corporation. It is common for the property taxes to be prorated at closing, if paid in advance by Seller, or for unpaid taxes to be paid at closing, from proceeds. If paid at closing, normally the Escrow agent will make the payment for the parties.

How are property taxes calculated in Costa Rica? 

Property taxes (for land) are calculated at 0.25% of the registered value. The registered value will be changed to the most recent purchase price, after the purchase is completed.  Therefore; it will be 0.25% of the purchase price. To apply for investor status for Residency, the registered property value must be $200,000 USD or more.  Therefore, at $200,000, your yearly property taxes would be approx. $500.00 USD. Keep in mind that when you go to build on the property, the building permit amount will be added to the value as a construction value and will also be taxed yearly. You can pay your property taxes yearly or quarterly. They can be paid at the local Municipality, online with most of the national banks, or if you have a payment service set up with a local Escrow company or Lawyer, they can also assist with the payment.

What is corporate tax? 

Corporate taxes were put in place in 2012 and then declared unconstitutional by a due process error when creating the tax law. However, the tax has been implemented again; and the amount depends on the income and commercial activity of the corporation. A corporation that is only holding an asset and has no income (Non Active), will pay about $120.00 per year, due during the first month of each year.

Utilities and services 

The attorney, with information supplied by the Seller’s attorney and the realtor(s), will verify what utilities and services are installed on the property and verify if they are current up to closing. It is also common to prorate the electric, internet, cable TV, etc. bills at closing. Furthermore, when possible, the services are transferred over from Seller to Buyer at Closing.

What is the water service like in Costa Rica? 

This is always an important item of due diligence. Per Costa Rican law, only the government can issue the right of use of water. Water is a public asset and cannot be privately owned. However, there are ways to have authorization of use of the water or obtain water service from the government.

Existing homes are grandfathered into this authorization.  Lots and obtaining new building permits are covered by the following:

1)   Obtaining a service from AyA (Acueductos y Acantantarillados (Similar to Water and Sewage), in this case from the Aqueduct (water) department. This means that the property is located in an area where AyA has infrastructure and can offer a service with a meter. Normally this is available in the more developed regions of the country, including cities, towns, villages and along major highways.

2) to obtain a service from an ASADA. An ASADA is a water association that is regulated by the government, allowing AyA to de-centralize their direct involvement over the sources and administration. An ASADA is formed by members of the community who then follow the guidelines of AyA to create a water system including local sources of water. ASADAS will sometimes take already existing systems that have been created in the rural areas, require improvements by the owner/developer and then take them over as part of the ASADA system and offer services to the original developer as well as any others that are close to the system.

The government does limit the amount of ASADAS being formed, as AyA can only direct and assist so many at a time. Therefore, if you are close to an ASADA (within two kilometers), then you would not create a new one, but rather join an existing one. With ASADA water, you also have a meter and pay the ASADA for the service.

3)  to acquire a “concession” for water for a well (Artisan well), perforated well, stream, river or spring. The source should be on your property and normally the concession will be granted for 10 years. The water department of the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) is the entity that grants the concession. It involves presenting the proper permits, (if it is a well, for example, perforation permits), documents pertaining to property ownership, environmental and water studies and application forms. There are several types of water concessions, residential, industrial, those designated for Condominium use, among others. In other cases, which is common in residential developments that are in rural areas and not under a Condominium regime, but rather developed and evolved on easements or agricultural parcels and right-of-way, you can find a general concession (one approved concession on the remainder of the original property) that services the rest of the subdivision, therefore all of the other lots.

This is not the ideal way to provide water service, however, in areas, where AyA is not present, or where there are ASADAS within the 2 kilometer radius; but they are not accepting new projects or the investment is too much for both parties for the acceptance to happen, the community of that development runs and manages the water source for all of the lots.  However, water cannot be charged for by individuals and therefore, only the maintenance of the system, pumps and electricity can be requested to the lot owners that receive water from the general concession.

These last types of developments will eventually have to join an ASADA or directly with AyA when the infrastructure is available. In the meantime, the concession over the source should remain valid and the dues (canon) paid for accordingly by the Developer or owner where the source is found.  

Declaration of Property in the local Municipality 

Per Costa Rican Municipal Code and law, properties need to be declared before the local Municipality every five years. The declaration is basically a form that is filled out, including areas that have been built, size of the property, owner information and declared value. During the due diligence, Buyer’s attorney checks to see if the property has been declared and if it has not been declared, normally will request that Seller do so, prior to Closing. The Municipalities are, as of recently, charging a penalty for properties that are not declared every five years.

Environmental and Municipal permits

A property that has moved earth or removed trees should have an earth movement permit, at minimum, from the Municipality and possibly permits authorizing the movement of earth in areas that are considered to have jungle, forest, steep slopes or close to bodies of water. 

Setback Certifications (INVU)

Costa Rican water laws state that building is restricted from a creek, stream or river. The restricted area depends on the slope of the property, density of forest and location of the property. The restriction area ranges 15 meters to 50 meters from the bank of the stream, creek or river. Therefore; in the due diligence procedure, Buyer’s attorney, if the survey shows a body of water on the property or the new survey to be done shows one, may request a seal from the Institution of Residence and Urbanism, (INVU) stating where the setback ends. This stamp usually takes about 3 weeks to obtain. Most surveyors can give you an estimate of the setback status, but the official confirmation is from INVU.

Other types of setbacks  

There are other types of setbacks such as springs and wells. The setback for a spring is significant. It is 100 meters radius, meaning nothing can be built, altered or even cleared within that radius. If the spring is used for a community use (tapped into and registered as a source of use), then the setback is 200 meters radius. When dealing with a well, the setback can be up to 40 meters.

Forestry Report

When purchasing property where there is primary jungle or forested areas, it may be important to get a forestry report. This is a report where a qualified Forestry Engineer and possibly a Civil Engineer walk the property and mark possible protected areas as well as located any springs and important bodies of water. Normally the report will contain information that will show the areas that are feasible for development and those that would require special permits to develop. Reference: Law 7575.

RIA

A Ria is an area composed of land considered to be delicate to the ecosystem because it is within 200 meters of an estuary, or basically where the river meets the ocean. These areas are protected by the Maritime Zone law and Public Water laws in Costa Rica. However, unlike maritime zone (200 meters from the beach), many of the properties that are affected by RIA are titled lands. Due to government mistakes and years of possession, titles were granted to properties that are in RIA. However, the government published the exact coordinates in the Official Gazette for several parts of the country, pointing out the exact location of the protected areas and some Municipalities are now denying permits or the renewal of permits based on the law and restrictions. Therefore, if you are looking into purchasing property that is close to a river, but also to a beach, it is important to rule out the RIA factor with your attorney. There are some exceptions, as there are with Maritime zone property, such as if the title was granted before the law was in effect. All of this can be verified by your attorney during the due diligence process.

HOA Fees, Condo Fees and Road Fees

If the Property is registered in a Condo regime, then there will be Condo dues. These need to be reviewed, along with the Condo regulations. Many times, especially in the beach areas and more rural areas, the communities, although not Condo, organize themselves in Residential communities and create informal CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions and restrictions) for the use of the property. Although not enforceable easily, most communities and land owners realize that they are in place for good reason and decide to abide. Normally the CC&Rs include monthly or yearly dues, same as the Condo regime. Furthermore, in some of the developments and in rural areas, the neighbors come together to fix (usually about twice a year) the public roads and internal project roads or easements of the community. Therefore, these items are verified and the Buyer’s attorney usually would request a letter of good standing from the Developer or Administrator as well as confirmation of the amount of yearly dues, copies of the Condo Association regulations or community CC&Rs as well as proof that the seller is current with all dues, formal or informal.

Employee presence and liquidation 

Although employment is specific to the Employer, it can be a hassle to a new Buyer if the employee who was the full-time gardener for the property or caretaker, finds himself or herself out of work with no notice. Therefore, even if you are planning to hire the caretaker, gardener, housekeeper, etc., they need to be terminated first by the Seller, either at Closing or prior to closing and then can be hired by you with a new contract. By terminated, this means that they are entitled to a few benefits that the law requires an employer to provide when terminating an employee. The amount and type of liquidation varies on what has been paid and how the employee has been notified but normally consist of: Notice, Unemployment, Proportional Christmas Bonus and Proportional Vacation pay as well as any unpaid salaries, overtime and holidays that were worked. Our recommendation is that if there are full time employees, that your attorney review the liquidation and termination documentation, even if it is drawn up and paid directly by Seller’s attorney.

Insurance for property

It is a good idea to confirm with a local insurance agent that the property you are purchasing is in an area where you can get the insurances that you desire for your future building. There are some limitations to insurances depending on location, slopes and other factors. Keep in mind that Costa Rica does not insure property itself, but does insure buildings, vehicles and objects.

National Commission of Emergencies, CNE 

There are properties that are located within areas that could be affected by slides, floods or that already have been and therefore are marked as danger zones and uninsurable areas. Normally these areas would be somewhat close to bodies of water, however, if in doubt, consult with an attorney who can request a study with the National Commission of Emergencies. 

Each property has its own special characteristics that merit specific research, therefore the land you are looking for may not need all of these studies or you may choose to waive some of them.  Your Real Estate agent and legal team will walk you through the entire process!

At Century 21 Ballena Properties and Ballena Legal Team, we are experienced in the real estate industry and have a broad range of professionals that can assist with the technical studies needed for the purchase process and of course to assist after purchasing.

Our goal is to make the process as smooth and secure for our clients as possible.

Do you have questions about this article, or buying property in Costa Rica? Contact us!  

You are planning to visit Costa Rica, to find your perfect piece of our beautiful little country… but do not know how to keep yourself safe and healthy…

Some basic planning and precautions can help keep you healthy and happy while traveling in this awesome little country.

Where to Get Care

Emergencies – you can dial 911 toll free from any cell phone, and no coin is required at any pay phone for emergency assistance.  911 works in all areas of the country!

In extreme emergency, The Red Cross Rescue unit may be reached directly at 128 throughout the country (2221-5818 in San José).

Tourism Care Medical Services has road and air paramedic and ambulance service throughout Costa Rica (2286-1818).

For non-emergency care your first line of defense should be your own first aid kit. Second, you can turn to the local farmacia (pharmacy). Most Farmacia’s have someone who speaks English and there usually is a DR on site, or they know one! 

Drinking the Water

Note: overbuilding, lack of planning and drought conditions have lowered many aquifers (especially in Guanacaste and the Nicoya peninsula) to the point that water quality in these areas is suffering.  Arsenic and other natural contaminants are being concentrated, and tap water is no longer drinkable in some lowland and coastal areas

Outside isolated problem areas municipal water supplies in most of Costa Rica are excellent.  Especially in the mountains, the water is often of a higher quality than what comes out of the tap at home. Ojochal water all comes from springs and is very safe to drink.  It is tested every 2 weeks to ensure it’s purity!

One of the reasons so much land is protected in parks and reserves is that Ticos recognize the importance of their watersheds. Water quality standards monitored and enforced by the AYA and local ASADA’s are similar to those followed in North America and Europe.

Water from rivers and streams is generally not safe to drink without purification.  As nearly anywhere in the world, free running water contains parasites and bacterial pathogens (including giardia).  Downstream from San José and in the waters around Puntarenas pollution and contamination can be severe enough to make swimming unsafe in the rivers.

Oceans

The ministry of health does occasionally shut down beaches due to high coliform bacteria counts (basically sewage in the water) even in supposedly pristine areas like Manuel Antonio National Park.  Only about 20% of Costa Rica’s sewage passes through a treatment plant and that only came on line in 2015.  Most sewage goes into septic systems many of which are inadequate or prone to leaking into the groundwater during rainy season.  A surprising amount of wastewater still simply gets dumped into the nearest river.

Red tides (algal blooms) are becoming more frequent in the Guanacaste area, as the ocean temperature rises and more fertilizer is carried out to sea in runoff.  It’s generally not considered very dangerous but can cause rash, irritation and should not be ingested.

Look for a “Blue Flag” beach… you can trust that these beaches are tested regularly to ensure their safety. There are 3 “Blue Flag” beaches on the south end of the Ballena Coast – Playa Ventanas, a very popular beach!  Playa Tortuga at Ojochal and Playa Ballena – entrance is at Villas Leonor, south of Uvita and north of Ojochal.

Washing

Washing your hands is one of the most effective ways of preventing disease transmission whether you are traveling or not.

Eating

Common sense is your best defense against digestive ailments. Wash any fruits and vegetables (especially ones you don’t peel), don’t eat food from stands or restaurants unless it’s as hot or cold as it should be, and don’t change your diet dramatically overnight.  That being said… we eat everywhere and very rarely have an issue!

Insurance

A separate travel insurance policy might be a good idea. Your normal health insurance, Medicare or Medicaid will not be accepted and will not pay for any care you need.

Many multinational companies offer policies that cover trip cancellation, lost baggage, medical costs, and emergency evacuation. For what you get this insurance is relatively expensive so shop around, get details from the providers, and read the policy carefully before purchasing.

Inoculations

Your ultimate medical resource must be your physician. Here is some general information, and there are daily updates by qualified medical professionals available on the CDC and WHO web sites.

No inoculations are currently required for travelers from North America to Costa Rica. However, you may want to consider a gamma globulin injection to boost your general immunity and defenses against hepatitis.

If you are from or have recently traveled to some regions of South America or Africa proof of inoculation against Yellow Fever will be required.  It is not present in Costa Rica and they want to keep it that way.

Mosquitoes

Use repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk.  There are a couple of mosquito borne diseases in the tropics world-wide and in Costa Rica, which are very unpleasant – chikungunya, zika, and dengue fever.  On the Ballena Coast there have been few cases of these diseases, and Ojochal had no reported cases in 2017!  Our personal favorite repellant is “Repel Lemon Eucalyptus”.  No Deet and works! 

If you get a fast, high fever and muscle pain, or are concerned you may have dengue.. make a papaya leaf tea and drink 1 cup every 4 hours or so. If you have dengue, you will be amazed how fast you get well!  Personal experience on this one!

First Aid

Everyone should carry a basic first aid kit when traveling. Hikers, backpackers, campers, surfers and others who are likely to find themselves away from medical care should carry more extensive supplies.

A minimum kit includes pain relievers/fever reducers (Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, or Aspirin) Imodium, little packages of electrolytes to replace mineral salts lost in sweating, band aids, blister treatment, tweezers, neosporin, tape, eye drops, insect repellent, sun screen. The benefits of having each of these items convenient should be apparent.

That said, by using the same common-sense practises and taking good advice from locals, Costa Rica is a very safe place to travel and live!  Exercise normal precautions, just like you would at home! 

Do you have questions about this article, or buying property in Costa Rica? Contact us!

It is interesting to talk to expats in the area and hear what motivated them to make the move to Costa Rica. They come from all over the world. Some of the countries represented in Ojochal, Costa Rica are; United States, Canada, Poland, Czech Republic, England, Germany, France and the Netherlands. No two people have the same story; but there are some recurring themes woven into most conversations. This article will highlight a few of them.

Are you wondering what, or where Ojochal is? Read our blog for more information on the upcoming “Ballena Coast” in Costa Rica.

Warm Climate

People from cold climates like the fact they no longer have to endure cold and snowy winters. Costa Rica is 8 to 12 degrees north of the Equator, in the Tropic of Cancer; so, the climate is tropical year around.  Making life a whole lot easier!  The fact that you can put shorts on, every day of the year is a treat for us northerners!

Lower Cost Of Living

The overall cost of living makes it possible to stretch your retirement dollars further. Studies report that it can be at least 50% less expensive than living in North America (depending on where you come from and your lifestyle choices). 

However, just like anywhere your budget will depend upon personal choices. A delicious way to reap the benefits of the lower cost of living is to buy local fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and meat. You can enjoy local cuisine at many sodas where a full meal will cost between $4 and $6.  Services such as gardeners and housekeepers are inexpensive – costing about $4.00 per hour in our area.  Learn to shop where the “locals” shop, grow your own bananas, pineapples, herbs, etc.

Good Health Care

Reputable health care is available at a reasonable cost.  Private healthcare insurance is an option that works well for some expats.  Rates vary based on age and general health status. While it is best to do your own research to determine your specific rate, a rule of thumb would be that a healthy retiree could expect to pay around $100 per month for private insurance. Expats who become Costa Rica residents are covered under the public healthcare system (CAJA) which has a reasonable rate that is calculated on a sliding scale. And there is always the option of simply paying for services when needed – you may be surprised at how inexpensive basic care can be. A visit to a Dr. is $50, a complete blood analysis is $150.00 

While we are on the subject of health care it is interesting to note that Costa Rica is often in the top of the World Health Organization’s list of countries in the world with long life expectancies. The tropical climate, slower paced lifestyle and access to healthy foods are cited as factors. Maybe just living in Costa Rica is a form of health care!  Many of us have reduced health issues after living here a while!

What a good advertisement that is for people considering moving to Costa Rica.

Do you have questions about this article, or buying property in Costa Rica? Contact us!

Do you want to know more about the real estate market in the South Pacific Zone of Costa Rica? Read our 2019 Report for the South Pacific Region.

You just know it — that this amazing new country you’ve got all picked out for your new expat life is going to be THE ONE. Heck, you’ve probably done so much research that you’re already visualizing yourself here; walking through the streets, chatting with the locals, trying out your new language skills. You have visited already, to scope out just where you want to land. Ah, you’re in love, and want to share the news with everyone. Now it’s just a matter of time before you get to experience all that wonder firsthand.

But still, you’re no fool. You know that no place is paradise. There have got to be downsides, and you wouldn’t mind getting a sneak-peak in advance. You’ve prepared yourself for the best, so what could be the worst? Well, let’s check a few of those things out.

Con: You really are starting all over

Wrapping up one life and preparing for another one is not an easy task, especially when you’re heading to an entirely different country. The planning stage before you arrive in your new country can be overwhelming at times. Fortunately, there are many things you can do in advance like finding housing, furniture / appliances if you need them, setting up bank and utility accounts, etc. How will it all fall into place?

The pro to know

Despite all the anxiety-producing decisions to make, one of the best parts about making the move to a new country, is that it reaffirms just how capable you are. “At home” these things are just ho-hum, but when you’re getting them done in a foreign environment (and sometimes in a foreign language) you wind up feeling pretty darned proud of yourself!

Con: You’ll feel like a lost child at times

Remember how frustrating as a child that it was to have to depend on others to guide you all the time? Well, that’s often going to be the case, at least for a while, in your new country. It isn’t easy to feel like you know close to nothing about where to go and how to get things done. It’s not at always fun negotiating your way through things you think should be easy and aren’t. It’s definitely a humbling experience.

The pro to know

The awesome part about being a kid is that every day is new, and filled with fresh and exciting wonders. You get to have adventures, learn new things, and grow bigger and better. That’s how expats get to feel, too. Being a kid isn’t all so bad after all!

Con: You’ll be hit upside the head with things you really won’t like

Every country has its beauty, and also its pure ugliness. Things like poverty, shanty housing, etc. can stare you down, making you feel downright uncomfortable. I can still recall crying endlessly at my first sight of the true poverty in Guatemala: at a loss as to why it still existed, and simultaneously feeling guilty for being so fortunate in my own life. There will be far more minor tribulations, too, but tribulations all the same. How can basic electrical and plumbing systems still be so shoddy, or even nonexistent, in this day and age, you may come to ask. In some countries, they truly are. It’s just the way it is.

The pro to know

The expat life is filled with renewed appreciation. It’s not long before you come to realize just how much more opportunity and choice we’ve been given — far beyond what too many in the world will never experience. Even the simple liberty of getting to move away, or travel as we please, can make one grateful for just how significant that freedom is!

Con: Get ready to do a lot of compromising

The truth is, daily life will be different. We’re so used to having access and variety to things like quality tools, kitchen wares, and foods, that we’re often stunned to find how much more limited those things can be in other countries. Unless we learn the arts of compromise and self-denial, we’re definitely apt to get frustrated and downright cranky sometimes. 

The pro to know

The more you find yourself letting go of, you’ll be amazed at how much shorter your list of “must-haves” will become. In fact, it can be very freeing to leave much of that material world behind.

Heck, you just may even learn to cook or create things from scratch or with alternative tools!  Or, you may go back to making your own broth and soup stock or the “borrowing of a cup of sugar” from your neighbour,!  Creating neighborhood and sense of community.

Con: The challenge of clashing values

No matter where we come from, it’s a natural tendency to think that ‘our way’ is the best. Unfortunately, that attitude can get in our way when trying to embrace our new homes. Little by little the less appealing things come out, and some can end up really getting under our skin. Are there things about Costa Rica that I don’t like? Yep. But there are also certainly things I don’t like about my home country, either. I live here now, and despite it not being perfect, I, like many other expats, learn to accept things as they are, and focus on the positive. 

The pro to know

By learning to adapt to cultural differences, we learn a lot about ourselves and what matters most to us. While at first, I grew impatient when encountering slow service, I later learned to appreciate the beauty of slowing down and feeling life. Where at the beginning I saw only poverty, I looked closer to see the incredibly rich cohesiveness of family lives. Even when I balked at the loud music, I needed only to stop to see all the fun those around me were having.

So, as you can see, once you land, you’re destined to experience some not-so-wonderful things in your in everyday life as an expat. More than that, though, notice how you’ll likely come to fall right back in love with your new home for those very same reasons.

How great is that?

I am sure you still have many questions… and there are no “wrong” questions!!  Getting all the information that you need is very important to making the best decision for YOU.

Do you have questions about this article, or buying property in Costa Rica? Contact us!

A lot has been said about the cost of living in Costa Rica, and for the most part we can safely say that you can save money on services such as medical and dental care, cost of communications, fresh food; but your costs for other commodities such as cars and electronics will be higher. In Costa Rica your lifestyle choices have a huge influence on how much you need to spend on a month to month basis

Numbeo is one of the largest databases in the world about cities and countries worldwide gathering data contributed by the users themselves. It provides current information on world living conditions including the cost of living.

 When it comes to the cost of living it takes into consideration parameters such as the cost of renting a house, purchasing real estate, restaurant prices, transportation, utilities, etc.

According to this database the average “Cost of living in Costa Rica is 23.08% lower than in United States.” It should be noted that Rent in Costa Rica is 55.24% lower than in United States (average data for all cities.

In comparison to other Central American countries living in Costa Rica will cost you more. For example, the cost of living in El Salvador is 13.72% lower than in Costa Rica, Nicaragua is 17.99% cheaper than Costa Rica, Guatemala 17.45% cheaper and Honduras factors in at 22.27% lower than in Costa Rica. It should be noted that Panama, which is a popular expat destination, is only 5.89% lower than that of Costa Rica.

 When you compare the cost of living in New York City versus the cost of living in San Jose Costa Rica, Numbeo shows: “You would need around $7,575.00 in New York, NY to maintain the same standard of life that you can have in San Jose for $3,100.00 (assuming you rent in both cities).

Other examples taken from the Numbeo are;

Los Angels compared to Costa Rica is 34.63% higher.

Houston, Texas compared to Costa Rica is 9.8% higher

Calgary, Alberta, Canada compared to Costa Rica is 20.46% higher 

(If you want to run more comparisons or get more details just go to: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-ofliving/)

Do you have questions about this article, or buying a home in Costa Rica? Contact us!

There is however one factor that cannot be put in a database and collected, and that is regarding “Quality of life”. One of the most noted reasons that individuals leave their home country, is to find a lifestyle that is less chaotic and demanding. They strive to have and enjoy peaceful surroundings, where everyday life is more in tune with how people should be able to live. 

Life in Costa Rica offers a unique opportunity for those that seek an alternative existence, where lifestyle choices mean healthier eating and participation in activities that nourish the soul.

The point we are making is that you can have all of this, and depending on your lifestyle choices, for much less that where you are now.

Come visit and discover your destiny. Our team of professionals have years of experience here in Costa Rica and have already made those choices. They Know!!!

Over the past years we have experienced the greatest number of visitors to our Ballena Coast in the traditional “High Season” or “Dry Season”, as its referred to. Included in this group were a number of people seeking out a lifestyle change and wanting to invest in real estate.

This cycle has changed, and we are now seeing more visitors and people in the “Green Season” searching for their own piece of paradise than ever before. So “What’s Green season” you may wonder.

In Costa Rica, it’s the time of the year when many areas of the country receive the rains that define the term “Rainforest”. Those of us who live here full time tend to prefer the Green Season. The pace is slower due to less tourists. It is a cooler time of year, and of course, it’s Greener! From late April to September you can expect to experience the rains that define the term “Green Season” What you can expect is hot, bright and sunny mornings up until early afternoon and then the rains will start and continue through the evening,

October is usually when you can expect the heaviest rainfalls here on the Pacific side – and it will rain! Often a few inches in a few hours! Sometimes the showers dump buckets of rain for up to a half an hour and then stop as suddenly as they started; and sometimes the heavier rain will last for a couple hours.

During the “Green Season” the countryside is lush and green and looks like you would expect a tropical country to look like. Because everything is so green, there is more fruit on the trees, more flowers blooming and an awakening of life in the rainforest. This ultimately means the animals, of which Costa Rica is so famous for, are more active and abundant. You are much more likely to have a “close encounter” with a monkey, or a sloth, listen to and watch the toucans, experience the magnificent flight of the scarlet macaw and enjoy many more of our rainforest neighbors.

Because this is such a beautiful time of year, and the fact that prices for travel are less; it is becoming a favored time for people to visit us, here in the southern zone of Costa Rica! Flights, rental cars, hotel rooms all cost a bit less in the Green Season, making travel more affordable for many!  It is not as busy, as in “high season”; traffic is better, getting reservations for rooms on a whim or an activity is possible and easier!

But here is the best part about the “Green Season”; taking advantage of the real estate investment opportunities available. The professional team here at Century 21 Ballena Properties refer to these as “Green Season” deals. Reduced pricing by some of our sellers provide scenarios that can save you money. We are proud to offer you an easily searchable web-site where you can browse in the price range of your choice and discover some reduced pricing and some of those great “Green Season” deals! Or give us a call and we will personally assist you in your search for a property that is right for you.

Come visit us and experience the “Green Season” for yourself.

Do you have questions about this article, or buying a home in Costa Rica? Contact us! 

Are you wondering why people move to Costa Rica? Read our blog to find out!

Costa Rica has an appeal that attracts people of all ages, from all walks of life and from all over the world.  These adventurous types are seeking to move to a tropical setting that provides a sense of newness for their lives. Costa Rica provides opportunities for the energetic entrepreneur, the burned-out baby boomer, the young couple with a family, or anyone looking for change and seeking an alternative, simpler way of life.

Costa Rica offers the perfect scenario for people who are willing and open to pursue something better in this world and in their lives. This country proudly offers health care for all its people, while at the same time providing free education for every child. Because of this Costa Rica has become a nation populated by healthy people, living in meaningful peace, with a shared prosperity. The people feel secure, have a sense of purpose, and enjoy lives that minimize stress and maximize joy. It is no wonder that Costa Rica has topped the “Happy Planet Index” for three years in a row. In addition, the “World Happiness Report” ranks the country as number 1 in America, and number 12 in the global ranking. In summary, Costa Rica’s happiness recipe is a combination of enjoying the moment, family bonding, universal health, education, peace, faith, equality and generosity.

Here is another Gem; you can even live longer by moving to Costa Rica.  Recently, “NBC Prime Time World News” did a special about a group of centenarians living on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula. In fact, the country boasts over 900 centenarians. Costa Ricans who reach the age of eighty have the longest longevity rate in the world beyond that age. This is mostly due to the lifestyle here. Many a foreigner, including those of us that have moved here claim that “they have added years to their lives and life to their years.” Perhaps the country can do the same for you.

Individuals continue to flock to the Costa Rica because of its high quality of life, peaceful atmosphere, political stability, fantastic climate, friendly people who like foreigners, excellent business environment and natural beauty.

Our team at CENTURY 21 Ballena Properties have all lived in Costa Rica for over 5 years and some as many as 20 years. They can answer and help you to make some of those lifestyle choices that will guide you in joining the expat community in Costa Rica. E-mail us your questions or concerns and we will do our best to answer them! We are here for you.

Do you have a question about this blogpost or costa rica real estate for sale? Contact us for more information. 

This is the book that you need if you are planning to live, and lots of good information if you already do live in Costa Rica.

It tells you things no one else has….about actually living in Costa Rica, particularly the southern zone as that is where the author lives.

She tells you about how to get around, where to buy things, how to get a cell phone…lots of other things that you need to know to make life a bit easier in this wonderful country! How to deal with bugs, snakes and other issues that can make life ‘not so pleasant’!

 It was originally written by two women who moved here, took notes; and then were encouraged to write a book from the notes.  Rita has done the updates and keep the Facebook page and the book updated.  

It is jam packed with the most current valuable information for everyone who is planning to spend any length of time in Costa Rica.

 The 2021 UPDATED E-BOOK IS AVAILABLE as a download for only $9.99

https://www.e-junkie.com/marketplace/FromGringoToTico_517242

For your latest and most current information go to and “like”  our Facebook page – “GringoToTico”.

https://www.facebook.com/GringoToTicocom/

Ask your questions here… they will be answered as best as Rita can, coming from her own personal experience and research.

Costa Rica has an appeal that attracts people of all ages, from all walks of life and from all over the world. These adventurous types are seeking to move to a tropical setting that provides a sense of newness for their lives. Costa Rica provides opportunities for the energetic entrepreneur, the burned-out baby boomer, the young couple with a family, or anyone looking for change and seeking an alternative, simpler way of life.

Costa Rica offers the perfect scenario for people who are willing and open to pursue something better in this world and in their lives. This country proudly offers health care for all its people, while at the same time providing free education for every child. Because of this Costa Rica has become a nation populated by healthy people, living in meaningful peace, with a shared prosperity. The people feel secure, have a sense of purpose, and enjoy lives that minimize stress and maximize joy. It is no wonder that Costa Rica has topped the “Happy Planet Index” for three years in a row. In addition, the “World Happiness Report” ranks the country as number 1 in America, and number 12 in the global ranking. In summary, Costa Rica’s happiness recipe is a combination of enjoying the moment, family bonding, universal health, education, peace, faith, equality and generosity.

Here is another Gem; you can even live longer by moving to Costa Rica.  Recently, “NBC Prime Time World News” did a special about a group of centenarians living on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula. In fact, the country boasts over 900 centenarians. Costa Ricans who reach the age of eighty have the longest longevity rate in the world beyond that age. This is mostly due to the lifestyle here. Many a foreigner, including those of us that have moved here claim that “they have added years to their lives and life to their years.” Perhaps the country can do the same for you.

Individuals continue to flock to the Costa Rica because of its high quality of life, peaceful atmosphere, political stability, fantastic climate, friendly people who like foreigners, excellent business environment and natural beauty.

Do you have a question about this article or Costa Rica real estate? Our team at Century 21 Ballena Properties have all lived in Costa Rica for over 5 years and some as many as 20 years. They can answer and help you to make some of those lifestyle choices that will guide you in joining the expat community in Costa Rica. E-mail us your questions or concerns and we will do our best to answer them! We are here for you.

This one… Uncleared and hard to visualize

Or this one?

Both are the same property… but the difference is that the owner has spent a few $$ to make it attractive and easy to access…. amazing what a building site and a driveway can do to show the lot. Now, potential buyers can drive on to the building site!  They can visualize the home and see the potential of the lot.

The challenge that we as professional real estate agents have, is showing property to potential buyers that cannot visualize the potential of the land. Their first thoughts are what would the view be like and where could they build their new home with a pool…

With this extra investment, the lot shown above Can and Will be sold!!

Let’s take another example…..

This one??

Or this one?

Again… same lot!  The difference being ease of access, as now clients can walk it, begin to see what the view would be like, what the breezes feel like and where they could build. Most people have challenges visualizing where a building site may be, and when the lot is covered in jungle, it makes it even harder! 

But as you can see from the above sample, this property Can and Will be sold!!

To all those that want to sell their land, please make note of this!  With a small investment in creating a building site and ensuring good access; you can make your land far more marketable!  The Realtor can now show your property and demonstrate features, benefits and advantages!

Remember this, the buyer can’t walk a lot or see the potential; they simply say “NEXT”!  And move on to the next lot that they can walk and can see the potential. The inventory of available properties on the Ballena Coast is huge!  What will make your property stand out and attract the attention of a buyer. What will make them want to spend time on it, see the potential and then purchase it?

Simple things like having a driveable entrance and the plantels graded makes all the difference!!

If you are a seller and would like to make your property more marketable, please contact our office; we can assist by advising you of what will allow your property to sell faster and at the right price point.

Do you have a question about this blogpost or costa rica real estate for sale? Contact us for more information.