Announcing adding 3 new members to our C21 team

We, the team at Century 21 Ballena Properties are excited to share and to announce that we have added 3 new members to our team!  We are very proud to welcome these very talented people to our team:

 Aarón Ugalde

Aarón is a bilingual Costa Rican native, who expresses gratitude every day for being fortunate enough to have been born and raised in a country that so many dream to one day call their home.

Becoming a part of the CENTURY 21 Ballena Properties Team has truly been a dream come true for Aarón, and it is his pleasure to assist others in achieving their goals and dreams of one day buying a home or investing in property here in this amazing and unique country of his. 

Dan Lancinger

As a 20 year resident of the South Pacific zone, Dan has very intimate knowledge and experience of this region.

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 Cordero

Axel is a Costa Rican native who is passionate about the development and protection of his country, in areas such as biodiversity, tourism and real estate.

 The desire to help others to build their dreams is one of the most important goals in his life. For this reason, being part of Century 21 Ballena Properties, is one of the first steps to materialize that goal, as well as to learn how to promote sustainable development, and taking care of the biodiversity in this beautiful country.  Axel lives in and serves the San Isidro / Perez Zeledon area.     

See more about these new agents and the rest of our team here: https://www.c21ballenaproperties.com/about-us/our-real-estate-team/

As our team grows, our office continues to be known for its integrity, diligence and innovation.  You can expect no less from us in the days ahead. 

The C21 Ballena Properties Team continues to pride ourselves on our ability to truly listen to clients’ needs and connect them with right opportunities that best match those needs.

Questions about Costa Rica real estate? We invite you to call our office and stop by to visit with us.  Come on in, have a coffee and meet the new agents!

We have moved….now at the Plaza Ventanas, where the dinosaurs are!

We have moved! Our new offices give us more space, more exposure, is an upgrade!

Our new office is in the “Plaza Ventanas” and it has a newly renovated gas station with fully stocked convenience store, restaurants, pharmacy, legal team, tool rentals, and much more!

The owner is making it a ‘Jurassic Park” of sorts, with dinosaurs placed through the plaza. 

Our team is very happy to be a part of this new plaza and all that it brings!

Come and see us, take your picture by the dinosaurs!

We wait for you….

Some Reasons Why People Who Move to Costa Rica Become Healthier

Can moving to Costa Rica really make you healthier?

In the years that we have lived in Costa Rica, we experienced and have noticed that a large number of Expats say the same things:

  • I’ve lost 30 lbs. since moving here six months ago and haven’t done anything different!
  • I don’t have any arthritis down here!
  • My blood pressure was skyrocketing and now it’s better!
  • I just feel better!

These aren’t just a few lucky stories; for the “Golden Generation,” who have migrated from the world’s northern climates, this is very common. It really does feel as if we have added an extra 10 years onto our lives!

Why???

1. YOU GET MORE healthy SUNLIGHT.

I personally was taking a daily dose of Vitamin D before moving to Costa Rica. We left frigid, dark, Alberta in the beginning of winter. As you can imagine, my mood significantly improved upon arrival. Access to warmer weather also loosens up the joints. I’ve heard many retirees tell me that their arthritis doesn’t bother them at all down here. A few minutes a day of sun, keeps us healthier!  As long as you don’t leave yourself too long in the strong mid-day sun, that we get being so close to the equator, you can enjoy the benefits of sunlight with less risk accompanied by prolonged exposure. Remember… “only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the mid-day sun!”

2. LESS STRESS.

I was surprised at how much I slowed down after leaving North America. Everything goes at a slower pace here as well. One friend laughed as he stated, “People live like 20 years ago here.” It really is like that, though. Even though the country does have malls and movie theaters, high speed internet, etc. the average citizen takes their time.

3. ACCESS TO fresh LOCAL PRODUCE.

There is an outdoor market, called the feria, held weekly in almost every town. At most of these ferias, the vendors are the actual farmers. If you can’t catch the local feria, no worries, there are fruit and vegetable stands along the neighborhood roads every day. The produce is cheaper here than in North America, and more importantly, it’s not shipped and stored in refrigerated warehouses; meaning it is fresh! It goes from the tree, to the farmer’s truck, right to your fridge!

4. THERE IS LESS POLLUTION.

Living in a less industrialized country means that you are exposed to a much lower amount of toxins. It goes hand-in-hand that the less people there are, the healthier the ecosystem. Costa Rica enjoys a lush and diverse environment, only burdened by humans in the bigger cities. Where we are, on the Ballena Coast, have little air traffic, fewer cars, no heating of homes/ office with furnaces spewing exhaust into the air!

Believe it or not, the water is overall cleaner here than in North America.  They don’t put many additives in the water here.  It is mostly all mountain spring-fed sources; and slightly chlorinated to keep the lines clean and bacteria free. I can taste the difference in the water here. It tastes purely fresh and hydrating. When I visit North America, I can’t help but notice the metallic taste from even a filtered water source. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather drink pure water!

BOTTOM LINE

We love living in the warmer climate and having an all-around better life! Every once in a while, I go to one of the local “gringo” cafes or restaurants; and it’s like an expat, retired club in there! They don’t miss North America, and they don’t mind being away from grandkids — because everyone wants to come and visit them here in paradise! And now, with so many virtual methods of keeping in touch with friends and family back home; it is so easy to keep in touch with loved ones.

Most people have made a new life, with a like-minded group of friends, and aren’t going anywhere. I personally enjoy delving into society, mingling with the locals and creating community, and it is possible for you to create your own piece of community in Costa Rica! You can get to know your neighbours; learn how to live a simpler life than you had back home, in much prettier, more healthy surroundings! 

Sunrises with the birds singing, amazing sunsets, morning beach walks, breathing cleaner air, drinking cleaner water, fresh produce!  What more could you ask for??

Talk to our team and we will help you find the “Perfect” place for YOU!

Do you have any questions? Contact us for more information about costa rica real estate!

6 Reasons You Should use a Realtor® to purchase a Home in Costa Rica

It’s a slow Sunday morning. You’ve just brewed your Nespresso and popped open your laptop to check out the latest home listings and properties available in Costa Rica.

You’re DIYing this real estate thing, and you think you’re doing pretty well—after all, any info you might need is at your fingertips online, right? That and your own sterling judgment.

Oh, dear home buyer (or seller!)—we know you can do it on your own. But, you really, really shouldn’t. This is likely one of the biggest financial decisions of your entire life, and you need a Realtor® if you want to do it right. Here’s why. 

  1. They have loads of expertise

Buying or selling a home, especially in a foreign country, requires knowledge of the country’s legalities, disclosures, and other technical documents. Realtors® have the expertise to help you prepare a the best deal—while avoiding delays or costly mistakes that can seriously mess you up.

The agent can help to guide you to areas and properties that will serve you best, because of their knowledge of Costa Rica, and all the areas.

  1. They have turbocharged searching power

The Internet is awesome. You can find almost anything—anything! And with online real estate listing sites, such as www.C21BallenaProperties.com, you can find up-to-date home listings on your own, any time you want. But guess what? Realtors® have access to even more listings. Sometimes properties are available, but not actively advertised. A Realtor® can help you find those hidden gems.

Plus, a good local Realtor® is going to know the search area far better than you ever could. Have your eye on a particular area, but can’t seem to find what you are looking for, in your price range? Your Realtor® is equipped to know the ins and outs of every neighborhood, in the area, you are interested in, so he/she can direct you towards property in your price range, that you may have overlooked or just cannot find on the internet.

  1. They have bullish negotiating skills

Any time you buy or sell a home, you’re going to encounter negotiations!

Don’t you want a savvy and professional negotiator on your side to seal the best deal for you?

And it’s not just about how much money you end up spending or netting. A Realtor® will help draw up a purchase agreement that allows sufficient time for inspections, contingencies, due-diligence, and anything else that’s crucial to your particular needs.

  1. They’re connected to everyone

Realtors® might not know everything, but they make it their mission to know just about everyone who can possibly help in the process of buying or selling a home. Real estate attorneys, home inspectors, exterminators, renovation people —the list goes on—and they’re all in your Realtor’s network. Use them.

  1. They adhere to a strict code of ethics

Not every real estate agent is a Realtor®, who is a licensed real estate salesperson; who belongs to the National Association of Realtors® ,the largest trade group in the world; or in Costa Rica – CRGAR – which is the training in Costa Rica that allows an agent to use ® and be registered with NAR®.

What difference does it make? Realtors® and offices that are SUGEF compliant, are held to a higher ethical standard and must adhere to a strong Code of Ethics.

  1. They’re your “go to” person for all things all rolled into one

The thing about Realtors®: They wear a lot of different hats. Sure, they’re salespeople, but they actually do a whole heck of a lot to earn their commission.  They’re constantly driving around, checking out listings for you. They spend their own money on marketing your home (if you’re selling). They’re researching previous sales, to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

They will advise you on where to get things for your new home, how to do many things, such as how to set up bank accounts, how to change your electricity bills, and many, many other things!

They’re working hard for you —whether you need more info on a home or just someone to talk to in order to feel at ease with the offer you just put in. This is one of the biggest financial (and possibly emotional) decisions of your life, and guiding you through it, is a responsibility the Realtors® at our office, on our team, take very seriously.

If you are wondering what properties are available for you… check out our Homes for Sale in Costa Rica.

Our agents can prequalify any property for you – with video conversations, etc; to ensure it suits your desires and needs!

We are here to help you with the entire process!

The team at Ballena Properties

Taxes for property owners in Costa Rica – What You Need to Know

As a “real property” owner in Costa Rica, you should be aware of the various taxes that need to be paid annually.  Failure to pay them will generate penalties and lead to a collection process.

To own property as an expat, you are generally required to set up a corporation of some type, to facilitate ownership; although it is possible to personally own property in Costa Rica. In any case, obtaining appropriate legal advice is essential, to ensure that all the required filings are done correctly.  The good news is that you can obtain solid legal advice at very reasonable rates.

Costa Rica’s amazing beaches are one its top attractions.

Once you have navigated the process of the property purchase, and have successfully obtained title to your own residence in Costa Rica; you then need to be aware of the myriad taxes you may owe on an annual basis.  Costa Rican taxes are numerous and varied, and are generally comparable to what you are probably used to, in your home country.  There are a couple of unique exceptions of course… the good news though is that the actual dollar amounts levied as property tax, in this beautiful land are not that expensive at all. 

Some of the types of taxes you may encounter while living in Costa Rica:

If you are already living here or thinking about moving to Costa Rica, we hope you will find the following collection of information useful, as you explore the rules and subtleties of each of the taxes you might encounter:

Luxury Tax in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has made many recent changes in its complicated tax laws. One of these is a “luxury” tax on higher value homes, established in 2009.

Whether you must pay this tax depends on the value of your constructed home, along with other improvements such as ranchos, swimming pools, walls, internal streets, sports fields, etc. The threshold at which the tax kicks in applies only to these types of construction and improvements, not to the land itself.

However, if you meet the threshold, you must then add the value of the land to the value of the construction, and pay the tax based on the entire amount.

Thresholds for luxury taxes in Costa Rica

The threshold at which the tax kicks in rises every year. For 2020, that threshold is 133,148,400 colones (about $233,900). So if your constructed home (not the land underneath it) is worth less than this, you don’t have to pay the tax. But if the home is worth more than this, you then have to add the value of the land to the value of the home and other improvements, and then pay the tax based on the total value of the property.

The tax ranges between 0.25% and 0.55%, again depending on the value of the home. Payment must be made by Jan. 15 each year, or penalties will be imposed. The Costa Rican government expects homeowners to have their homes assessed, determine the amount of tax due and pay it on their own; although they may check to verify that the correct amount has been paid.

Every three years, those affected must fill out a form called “Formulario Único de Inscripción, Declaración y Pago Impuesto Solidario para el Fortalecimiento de Programas de Vivienda, Ley 8683.” But the tax must be paid annually.  Your attorney can assist you with this. 

Costa Rica Property Taxes & Garbage Fees

When it comes to Costa Rica property taxes, for once the news is good: They are much lower than in the United States or Canada.

And for once, the rules are simple: the property tax (“impuesto sobre bienes inmuebles”) is 0.25% of the purchase price of your property or the value assigned by the National Registry, whichever is higher.  So if your property is worth $200,000, your property tax would be $500 a year.

It’s your responsibility, by the way, to have your property value assessed every five years. If you don’t, you may face penalties, and the municipality may choose to assess the value of your property itself. Most of the time, your legal counsel can do this on your behalf.

Garbage collection fees

Fees for garbage collection (“recolección de basura”) are due at the same time as property taxes, and both are paid to your local municipality. The garbage fee is a fixed amount, that is adjusted annually. The fee varies depending on the location of your property and whether it’s used for residential or commercial purposes.

Property taxes and garbage fees can be paid quarterly — at the end of March, June, September and December — or they can all be paid at once for the entire year.

Costa Rica Corporation Taxes

It’s common in Costa Rica for foreigners to have corporations for various reasons — to buy property, for example; or to be able to work legally.

That means that most expats have to pay Costa Rica corporation taxes, and the payment is due every year by Jan. 31, or interest and penalties will be applied.

Inactive companies, meaning those that are not generating any revenue, (most of us, who have only our homes/ real property in the Corporation) have to pay corporate taxes of about $120 a year. For active companies (corporations that do business)  tax liability is based on their revenue.

Costa Rica Shareholder Declaration

Costa Rica has been on a tear lately passing new tax laws, and though they won’t make your life any easier, ignoring them can make your life much more difficult.

Case in point: the “Law to Combat Tax Fraud,” which requires virtually every corporation in Costa Rica to file a complicated declaration, stating how many shareholders it has, what their stake in the company is, what types of stock are held, and many other details.

The ostensible reason for this requirement, is to comply with international requirements for tax transparency — in part, to satisfy conditions to become a member of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. The requirement is also intended to reduce tax evasion and combat money laundering.

The requirement applies to the smallest mom-and-pop company — S.A. companies (“Sociedad Anónima”), LLCs (“Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada”), general and limited partnerships, branches of foreign corporations in Costa Rica, trusts and others.

Costa Rica shareholder declaration requirements

The list of information required is long and complex, including company identification, type of stock, total number of shares, names of shareholders and beneficiaries, details of share ownership and more. Unless you know off the top of your head what terms like “usufruct” mean, you may need some help to fill out the form correctly.

An additional complication is that to complete the online-only shareholder registry form yourself, you must obtain a “digital signature” (“firma digital”) from an authorized Costa Rican bank. This is a USB device inserted into a computer with a digital card identifying the holder. And of course there’s a catch: Only Costa Rican nationals or foreigners with legal residency / DIMEX card can obtain the digital signature.

The work-around? You can assign power of attorney to another party, usually a lawyer or notary, to use their digital signature to fill out the shareholder declaration for you.

Failure to make this declaration is punishable by pricey penalties — starting around $2,000 and in some cases, believe it or not, reaching nearly $79,000. So ignoring this requirement is really not an option.

If you have a Costa Rican company and have not fulfilled this requirement, contact Ballena Legal Team to have them do this on your behalf.

We hope that this information helps you to understand your tax responsibilities and make life easier for you!

To answer more questions, etc… contact one of our team!

If you are wondering what properties are available for you… check out our Costa Rica Real Estate. 

Our agents can prequalify any property for you – with video conversations, etc; to ensure it suits your desires and needs!

We are here to help you with the entire process!

The team at Ballena Properties

Welcoming you to Costa Rica!! Come visit us!

The team at Century 21 Ballena Properties in Costa Ballena , Southern Pacific Coast, are waiting to see you! Our team is excited to be able to assist you, answer questions; and help you find the perfect property for you!  We welcome you back, with open arms! 

Costa Rica has relaxed some of the requirements for arriving visitors, and expanded the list of U.S. states, from which it will welcome tourists in September, Tourism Minister Gustavo Segura announced Thursday, Aug 27, 2020!

Starting September 1, Costa Rica will allow tourists from Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. These two states and the capital are added to the following, previously announced states: New York, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont and Connecticut.

As of September 15, the list will be further expanded with Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Colorado.

More leeway for arriving tourists

Tourists visiting Costa Rica will still need to present the results of a negative PCR coronavirus test. However, starting immediately, the sample for the test can be taken up to 72 hours before the flight — 24 hours longer than earlier allowed.

To prove their state of residency, U.S. tourists will be allowed to use a State ID card or their driver’s license. This requirement is waived for minors traveling with a parent.

 Finally, starting September, visitors can arrive via a flight with a layover in a non-authorized location. For instance, a Colorado resident could fly from Denver to Houston to Costa Rica, as long as the traveller does not leave the airport in Texas.

 Costa Rica will continue to enforce its other previously-announced entry requirements, including the necessity for tourists to obtain travel insurance that covers COVID-19 medical expenses and extended lodging in case of quarantine.  The National Insurance Institute is among the companies offering pre-approved policies, but tourists can also choose a qualifying foreign plan.

Other requirements include:

  1. Tourists must show proof of a negative PCR test for the coronavirus. The sample for the test must have been taken no more than 72 hours before the flight to Costa Rica.
  2. Anyone entering Costa Rica must complete the online “Health Pass” epidemiological form, available here: https://salud.go.cr.
  3. Residents and citizens entering Costa Rica do not need a negative PCR test, but they will be required to self-isolate for 14 days regardless of their country of origin.

If you are wondering what properties are going to be available for you, when you arrive, check out our Costa Rica Real Estate. 

Our agents can prequalify any property for you – with video conversations, etc; to ensure it suits your desires and needs!

We are here to help you with the entire process!

The team at Ballena Properties

Effects of the new “SUGEF” regulations on real estate businesses

As of 2019, the government of Costa Rica has extended the authority of SUGEF to include oversight of real estate agencies. 

What is SUGEF?

“SUGEF” stands for “Superintendencia General de Entidades Financieras” (Financial Institution Superintendency). This organization audits financial institutions such as banks, savings and loans, and employee credit unions, to ensure they are complying with federal and international financial regulations. SUGEF is like the Office of the Comptroller of Currency (OCC) in the United States. 

According to the SUGEF website, their mission is to “Dictate the general norms and guidelines that it deems necessary to promote the stability, solvency, and transparency of the operations of the audited entities.” There is no doubt the actual reason behind these new requirements is to prevent money laundering and protect buyers from fraud.

This fresh arrangement has resulted in several changes in how real estate companies operate and report transactions to the Costa Rican government.

Effects of the new SUGEF regulations on real estate businesses

There is no doubt these new regulations will increase overheads for all real estate agencies. More paperwork means more time, more time means more money and/or higher legal or accounting expenses.

Without a doubt, the new regulations will cause a sifting within the real estate industry. Most foreigners who have been selling real estate “on the side” will probably disappear altogether. Most full-time agents I have spoken to see this as a good thing since these “pseudo” agents rarely provide post-purchase support to the buyer, nor are they as well-versed in the current laws, or the potential pitfalls associated with purchasing a property in Costa Rica. Some full-time, independent agents may have to close shop or join larger agencies. Small real estate agencies may merge with other small agencies to share overheads. Hard to tell at this point – the shakeup is still in process. 

Effects of the new SUGEF regulations on the buyer

 First, transparency is the law. SUGEF requires real property ownership details and confirmation on sources of funds to approve any transaction. They will also require details about the owners of any corporation used in the purchase of a property. 

Second, buyers can have a higher level of confidence in their agents. Before SUGEF oversight took effect, anyone with a laptop and a website could promote and sell properties from any place with Wi-Fi. This made Costa Rica a breeding ground for shady real estate dealers. Now, only real estate agencies registered with SUGEF are authorized to handle property transactions in Costa Rica. This is a big step forward in security for buyers and sellers.

 Step one in your due diligence process should be to confirm that your agent is registered with SUGEF. If you are not sure how to do this, ask your local attorney to help you.

Based on discussions with several well-established real estate agents within the country, and in our own opinion, the new SUGEF oversight is an excellent thing for the industry. Yes, it increases costs slightly, and it was a laborious process to get registered, but it also legitimizes genuine agents and eliminates most of the “fly-by-night” shysters who have taken advantage of naïve new homebuyers in the past. The customer is well served by these new requirements, and that is the important thing.

Century 21 Ballena Properties office has been SUJEF compliant since shortly after this protocol was put in place.  You can trust that our agents are licensed with CRGAR and NAR; and will serve you as best they can!

Do you have a question about this article or Costa Rica real estate? Feel free to reach out to us. 

Covid 19 update – Digital Client Services

As we are waiting for the world and travel to open up again, we are getting many inquiries for people looking to make a change in lifestyle, to a safer and more peaceful environment.  Our team looks forward to giving a warm welcome to old friends and new visitors alike.

As it becomes safe to do so, come visit us, discover or re-discover this natural adventure wonderland and to find your “paradise in the sun” in the beautiful surroundings of this friendly country. Let us serve you with our experience and the professionalism you deserve. 

WHY COSTA RICA?

 Costa Rica is working hard to be ready to thrive as a post – COVID-19 destination!

In this environment, tourism destinations like Costa Rica stand out from competition, as factors, such as “authentic” experiences and “unique nature” destinations, now have become secondary to the current health and social distancing concerns. 

These shifts in thinking about travel allow Costa Rica to succeed as a destination as the COVID-19 issue winds down.  

Costa Rica thrives as a nature-oriented destination, that prioritizes both health and tourism infrastructure, and … most notably with one of the best medical systems in Latin America. 

And, the team at C21 Ballena Properties now offers a fully “virtual” experience of choosing your perfect property and completing the purchase process.

 Have a look at the website and know that we are here to serve you “virtually,” with our “Digital Client Services”!    

Our agents will tour you through a property with live video, recorded video, and perform all the processes, virtually! 

You can click on the listing for more information, and check out our website at: www.C21BallenaProperties.com for more great properties.   WhatsApp the agent directly, to ask more questions and to arrange virtual tours!

Our agents are set up to work “virtually” to show you properties, and are available to answer your questions! 

We are looking forward to serving you.

The team at C21 Ballena Properties

Do you have a question about this article, or real estate in Costa Rica? Feel free to contact us. 

Life Goes On In Costa Rica…

There are many reasons people fall in love with Costa Rica, and none of those have gone away with the current world situation.  The world has taken notice of how Costa Rica has been handling the Covid-19 situation, with full preparedness.

Now, we are all getting ready for the world to open up again, and Costa Rica is doing this in an efficient and safe manner. We hope that flights will begin again soon, giving foreigners a chance to come back to their homes, their vacation homes, come to discover this natural, adventure wonderland for the first time; or come back to research their paradise in the sun and the lush surroundings of this friendly country.

Our team has had many people reaching out to us, who are feeling the pull to move, and are asking our advice. Some are looking for relocation, and others are looking for a “getaway home” that also generates passive revenue and is a wise investment.

Although nothing is perfect, I cannot emphasize enough how incredible Costa Rica is; it is our favorite place on earth!

Costa Rica is very peaceful, stable, and safe. Many do not know this, but it actually has one of the lowest homicide rates in the world. It is frequently voted the “happiest country in the world” also.

The economy is very stable, and the area that we are in is amazing!   It’s like living in the garden of Eden. The air is very oxygen rich and clean; less traffic, all most no planes flying overhead. 

Costa Ricans (they refer to themselves as “ticos”) are very relaxed and welcoming. Their motto is “pura vida”, the pure life. It is a way of being that allows you to slow down and be present. It’s incredible.

There is a level of safety and security that Costa Rican’s have, because most people own their own homes, they grow food, have clean water sources, and very clean air.

They are not in “debt slavery”. This is important, because it helps to create a more stable economy.

At Century 21 Ballena Properties, we have been continuing our efforts to keep you updated to the opportunities here in the Costa Rica real estate market, and are preparing for your safe visit to explore and enjoy.  Click here, please, to find some of our top listings.

You can click on the listing for more information, and check out our website at: www.C21BallenaProperties.com for more great properties.   WhatsApp the agent directly, to ask more questions and to arrange virtual tours!

Our agents are set up to work “virtually” to show you properties, and are available to answer your questions! 

We are looking forward to serving you.

The team at C21 Ballena Properties

Do you have a question about this blog, or real estate in Costa Rica? Feel free to contact us. 

Uncharted Waters / Covid 19

It is true that the world is in unfamiliar territory, and that no one can say for sure what the immediate or long term future holds. We, here at C21 Ballena Properties, are listening closely to our buyers and our clients.  We are closely tracking our website visits, inquiries, and campaign participation; and there are clear upward trends in the Costa Rica real estate market.  2018 and 2019 were record years for sales for all of us along the Costa Ballena (South Pacific Coast) as a result of a strong USA and European economy, and strong consumer confidence. 

Now, those same markets are looking at Costa Rica as a safe alternative to living in more densely populated countries.  Other factors, such as our public health care system, easy access to advanced medical treatments, and a relatively easy process for residency, have increased the number of people who are considering Costa Rica as their new permanent residence.

The outstanding efforts of the Costa Rica government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted other incredible accomplishments of the government of Costa Rica, such as the protection of so many beautiful, uncrowded beaches and rainforests, the abundant wildlife, and the strong environmental protectionism of this tiny, tropical country.  In fact, the country was able to run more than 95% of 2019 on renewable energy sources.

Each of these facts, coupled with declining real estate inventory, may result upward pressure on prices in the real estate markets, as the effects of the pandemic ease, airports re-open and people feel safe to travel.

Our team has been very busy dealing with potential buyers; conducting safe, virtual tours; answering inquiries; and YES,  selling properties, over the past several weeks. A lot of savvy investors are looking to act now, during the crisis, in order to get as much value for their money as they can. 

Without a doubt, Costa Rica is a small country that offers big experiences to all. Although we do not know when the social confinement will end, we can assure you that once the pandemic passes, this beautiful country will welcome you with open arms! 

Do you have a question about this article, or real estate in Costa Rica? Feel free to contact us.