How to Choose a Great Listing Agent in Costa Rica

May 11, 2023 in Real Estate in Costa Rica, Tips for Sellers, Selling Process

Choosing the right listing agent just got easier with this great guide based on one from HGTV and applied to our practice in Costa Rica.

The world is full of people who sell real estate. Some of them are smart, efficient, focused, versatile and willing to go the extra mile. And some of them aren’t.  This doesn’t change, no matter if it’s Costa Rica or Canada. And in a small but fast-growing community like ours in the Costa Ballena, everyone is friends with at least one realtor in Costa Rica.

Finding an agent who will sell your home using a range of marketing tools; who will get you the best deal possible in a reasonable amount of time, all while charging a fair rate, takes some effort. As a seller, it is your goal to interview at least three candidates before you sign a contract. Your best friend may not be your best choice for representing your most valuable asset in Costa Rica.

Here are 10 questions you really want to ask so you can identify the best real estate agent to sell your property:

How much is my property worth? 

Ask potential agents how much they think they can sell your home for. If two agents say $600,000 and the third says $700,000, think hard: it’s likely the high bid is an exaggeration to attract your business. In the trade it’s known as buying a listing. In the end, it’s you, the seller, who pays because the high price will scare away potential buyers before you inevitably drop the price.

We often see this happen to unsuspecting sellers as we are touring new listings. Consider how the agents arrived at the suggested list price. Did they present a current market assessment, showing you recent sales of comparable properties? Did they show you the current properties on the market that will be your homes' competition that prospective buyers will be comparing your home against?

If you are a serious seller, the best policy is to price your property reasonably competitively in the current market. You want to attract serious offers instead of having buyers perceive your property overpriced and present low-ball offers.

It is our job as realtors to lead you through the negotiation and we at Osa Tropical Properties consider it an art form. We may love your home and want to show it to our buyers. But if it has been over-priced by another agency, it will be obvious to our buyers, who we educate in the local market. Over-priced properties stand out to our buyers and make them question the integrity of the local market, which is not helpful for anyone. The best policy is for agents to price properties correctly, using the available market data. In this case, both sellers and buyers win….and that is the desired outcome in the art of the deal.

How will you market my property?

Listing your property on the Internet shouldn’t be the only answer that your realtor has for this question. A realtor should be able to talk about what kinds of people are likely to buy your property and how he/she will reach out to these specific people.

Our agents show potential sellers a tailored listing presentation that includes the quality of our marketing in comparison to our competition. Our Osa Tropical Properties office offers in house professional photography, videos, virtual tours, 360 videos, and so much more to market our listings. We have a dedicated team that works to advertise our clients’ properties, and Costa Rica in general, to the right channels all over the world.

We show our potential listing clients recent comparable properties that have sold in the region and the final sales prices. We also share the comparable properties currently for sale that will be the listing's direct competition.

How has your business changed in the last five years?

If an agent doesn’t talk about website tours, smartphones and SEO, chances are this is not a highly wired agent. Tech-savvy realtors sell more properties because they are more connected! Our team uses every tool, new and old, to capture new leads from all over the world. And we use a variety of methods to keep our leads engaged and interested. Our team goals are client retention and staying in close contact with our client buyers.

As a seller with Osa Tropical Properties, you will benefit from receiving numerous touches or “nudges” about your property and its’ various appealing features. Costa Rica is predominantly a vacation destination and we know that buyers are quick to come and go. Our marketing strategy is all about grabbing opportunities as they arise.

Tell me how your last two deals surprised you?

Every agent has a success story, but this question will give you a much better feel for what this realtor is like as a salesperson. In a land where buyers and sellers may be in or out of the country at various points throughout the deals, there are a lot of surprises that can and do happen regularly in our transactions. What counts is how an agent deals with obstacles. Are they timely? Organized? Patient? Willing to help?

What’s your specialty as a realtor in Costa Rica? 

If you’re selling a starter home in a community full of young families, hiring an agent who specializes in seniors is probably a bad idea. The same goes for real estate in Costa Ballena. Each of our local communities have niche areas that sing to some clients and repulse others. Our strategy is to understand our buyers and those we meet in collaborative transactions with other brokerages.

We make notes at our showings and keep track of different buyers' responses to the listings we view together. No matter the feedback, we keep track so that we can learn and grow alongside the clients we represent. Every market is changing and growing and ours is no exception. What we can do is to keep our finger on the pulse of what is going on around us at all times.

How many people are you selling homes for right now and what are you doing for them? 

It may not be a bad thing that a highly-successful agent is juggling 15 homes. Ask yourself: do you feel like you can trust them to give you dedicated, personal service with their current listing roster? How many comparable properties do they have that have been on the market for a long time?

On the other hand, be wary of an agent with few other clients because they may lack experience and contacts. Our agents take on the listings that we know that we can sell. Our client testimonials are our best advertisements for getting new listings because our clients are confident that we represented them to the fullest potential.

What do you expect of me as a client? 

A good salesperson will have expectations of their clients, as strange as this may sound at first. They may want their sellers to leave and take the dog when the house is shown, or to paint the bodega, move some furniture around and scrub the tile in the bathroom. It shows that your agent can think like a buyer and that’s a good thing. We have so many showings every week that our finger is on the pulse of what buyers are looking for today. We are able to give advice that has afforded sellers the ability to list at a higher value. It may be as simple change like spending a few hundred dollars on landscaping or fresh paint and selling for something like $10,000 more.

What advice would you have for me if I get an offer from a buyer who wants financing? 

It wasn’t very long ago when our answer might have sounded like "turn around and run the other way." These days, buyers are asking more often about financing. Although it is difficult for buyers to get a loan in Costa Rica (banks and private lenders both have extremely high interest rates and restrictions). As a result, sellers are offering personal financing to sweeten their deal when buyers are struggling to respond to their listing.

Good real estate agents should be able to help you understand the seller-financing process and offer advice about if it is right for your situation. A realtor should engage with the closing attorney to ensure the documentation is correct, protecting all parties in accordance with Costa Rican laws.

What fees do you charge for your service?

Our office and most brokerages in the Costa Ballena generally operate by the industry standards set and agreed upon by the Cámara de Corredores de Bienes Raices (Chamber of Real Estate Brokers) in Costa Rica. This means that sellers are expected to pay an 8% commission to realtors for a home and 10% for a vacant lot, plus 13% service tax. For this fee, we guarantee our full attention to your listing, to deliver on the various marketing and sales initiatives as promised in our listing presentation. Ultimately, we aim to bring our clients the successful closure of the sale of their property.

Can I talk to one of your previous clients? 

It’s often best to hear about us directly from those who have worked with us in the past. You are most welcome to contact our team with any questions you may have for our previous clients. We will strive to put you in touch with someone relevant in the community with whom we've worked in the past.

In the meantime, please visit our website to read dozens of testimonials from our past clients and present neighbors. When you work and live in such a small, tight-knit Costa Rica community, the best business card is word-of-mouth: http://osatropicalproperties.com/client-testimonials/

Four Ways to Feel Successful in Costa Rica (Even if You Feel Like You’re Failing)

May 11, 2023 in Discover Costa Rica, Life in Costa Rica

As you carve your own path toward success and move to Costa Rica, you may be imagining what legacy you'll leave behind, and what trails you have blazed for other people.  Hearing your calling, pursuing your passion, and changing lives to follow your dreams is what makes people who move to Costa Rica great to begin with. And while working your butt off is the usual path to greatness, there are times where, in the midst of such a big move, it can feel like you are trading your family life, health, and well-being to pursue a dream you’re not even sure why you had.

Successful people are the ones who are able to manage their emotions, achieving a perfect balance of grit and serenity. If you've taken your share of licks lately, don't give up.  Instead, take some advice from Marcel Schwantes, principal and founder of Leadership From the Core, and put into practice the techniques of some of the best and most successful people on the planet to make sure that the legacy you leave in your journey here is one of which to be proud.

#1. Successful people start the day with silence and meditation

With so much stress coming their way and so many people demanding their attention, successful people seek quiet time in the morning to reflect and process.  They may journal about the previous day's events and express gratitude for the doors that have opened up. They'll watch the sun rise and empty their minds to experience the moment, be still, and breathe with intent.

Oprah says, "I wake up to the sound of birds now (what I've taken to calling real twitter). Before getting out of bed, I pause for a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the sound." She adds that this is a "heightened state of being that lets whatever you're doing be your best life, from moment to astonishing moment."  

Meditation is scientifically proven to improve sleep, and increase productivity and creativity, so take the advice of the woman worth $2.9 billion.  We are blessed to live in a place where natural silence is abundant and we can escape our thoughts when we tune into life around us. Let us never forget this great power that we have at our behest.

#2. Successful people fail forward

If you're the type of person who gives up too soon after failing and just can't bounce back from a setback (thus tossing in the towel on your dreams), you're missing one of the greatest lessons of every successful person: Failing is part of the journey that will lead to success.  Accept this fact early on so that when failure comes knocking and tries to scare you away, you stare it down with confidence and embrace it, learn from your mistakes, and try again a different way.

Costa Rica will present foreigners with all kinds of challenges, most of which there is no way to escape.  We need to face our failure and find better ways to deal with that which we cannot change.

#3. Successful people overcome their fears

Darren Hardy, best-selling author of The Entrepreneur Roller Coaster, says that the real reason 66 percent of all entrepreneurs fail is due to mental and emotional roadblocks that get in the way of success. And the biggest roadblock holding entrepreneurs back, according to Hardy? F-E-A-R.

Hardy suggests a simple hack -- 20 seconds of courage. He explains the idea: "Think of everything you could accomplish if you forced 20 seconds of bravery on your primitive mind just three times a day. Imagine how doing so would multiply your success, lifestyle, and prominence in the marketplace. Think of the breakthroughs you could create."  

Talk to the people around you; pick up your neighbor who you see walking down the street with heavy groceries; accept the invite to a new acquaintances home for dinner.  Putting ourselves into new scenarios is what we came here to do, but it’s easy to want to fall into our old routines. Practice small but intentional moments of bravery every day and you will integrate into your new life with ease.

#4. Successful people surrender to the process

It takes copious amounts of trust to surrender the outcome of your dreams to the universe, or those forces greater than you. Leadership thinker and author Mike Myatt talks about surrender in this article in Forbes, where he states:

“You'll rarely encounter the words leadership and surrender used together in complementary fashion. Society has labeled surrender as a sign of leadership weakness, when in fact, it can be among the greatest of leadership strengths. Let me be clear, I'm not encouraging giving in or giving up--I am suggesting you learn the ever so subtle art of letting go.”

So, surrender to the outcome, to your faith or higher power, and believe that things will work out according to the plan. As you let go, surround yourself with trusted advisers, friends, and family who will support you and love you throughout your journey.  Find the people who will remind you of what’s right about your decisions and give you the strength to get through whatever difficulties may come.

At Osa Tropical Properties, we’re here to help you on your path to achieving your dreams.  We know how special the dream is, of moving to Costa Rica, and we also know the challenges that we and many others have faced.  We will walk you through the process of buying, selling, moving, and settling down. We aim to set you on the path to success, supporting you along the way to living your dreams.

Digital Real Estate in Analog Costa Rica - Leveraging Tech to Better Serve International Buyers

May 11, 2023 in Real Estate in Costa Rica, Tips for Buyers, Buying Process

If there’s one thing to be said about life in the tropics, it is that the pace of progress lags well behind the “modern world.” Costa Rica is no exception to this informal rule of the tropics.  It may be one of the fastest growing developing economies in Latin America with a highly-literate, high percentage English-speaking population, but the infrastructure of Costa Rica has still been slow to develop.  In the last 10 years, South Pacific Costa Rica has benefited immensely from the extension of a paved coastal highway from San Jose, and the expansion of telephone and internet service from only in small, local internet cafes to high-speed service in nearly every community.  Most recently, fiber optic cable internet is making its way down the Pacific Coast and into our small communities, too. In fact, there is hardly a technology that you cannot find in Costa Rica if you look hard enough. And so, in the deep end of the digital age, do you really need an agent when buying property in Costa Rica?

Searching for properties in Costa Rica used to involve flying down and traveling around, listening to stories from fellow travelers, and seeking the council of the established expats and locals.  This may still a big part of the process for some, but today's Costa Rica property hunter has moved on to the digital age and is choosing to begin their search online, reading a litany of blog posts and watching numerous hand held videos of varying quality about life in the different parts of Costa Rica and what anyone can expect to experience.

Aly Yale of Forbes Magazine suggests that although it’s no secret that buyers are doing most of the home search process on their own using apps, websites and digital platforms, when they find that potential dream home, their power ends there. Even in the most developed parts of the world, buyers need to call in an agent to open the door and show them the home—as well as craft and submit their offer.  

This cannot be truer in Costa Rica, where agencies each have our own platforms for listings and marketing.  You will find very little to do with Costa Rica on the usual MLS platforms like Zillow or Trulia, and nearly every agency is relying on their own marketing powers to attract buyers and sell them on the quality of their region.  This means that although you may find your dream property on your own by scanning the various websites, you will need to trust someone to tell you if your property choice is a good one.

What do Costa Rica real estate agencies offer their clients?

Typical housing data that first world citizens have come to take for granted, like instant access to price trends, comparables and estimates, are not available on any listing service in South Pacific Costa Rica.  Because there is no central MLS platform, data is not shared between real estate brokerages and so common data is not aggregated and presented in the way Zillow or Trulia do in other parts of the world. What’s important in Costa Rica real estate is that you find an agent who can still provide you with the salient sales information for any home or neighborhood.  Even if it’s not their listing, a good Costa Rica real estate agent will go out of their way to get the data about any listing in their region and put it together for their clients in a manner that shows that the agent knows the property, knows the history of the area, and knows the comparable properties currently on market, or about to emerge.

Buyers today are doing the research to learn about the areas and the school systems they want their kids to go to, but someone has to go out and create that information.  A good Costa Rica real estate agent will be able and willing to share information about any aspect of their communities of service that may interest their clients. Skilled agents know how to negotiate a fair price for their clients based on all market variables, and they also know about the school systems and what the different schools have on offer; the healthcare system and roughly how much it will cost you per month; and  where to go and what to do in any common situation that may come up. Ideally, your agent is like you and cares about where they live. Not only do they enjoy being there every day, but they earn their commission by supplying valuable information to buyers and sellers of real estate.

Choosing properties that fit your wishlist is only a small portion of the overall home buying process.  Consumers already have access to mountains of data on the internet. What they need is access to see properties and then help analyzing the data and negotiating through a potentially complex process, with inspections, co-op boards, and so on.  A good Costa Rica agent will have good working relationships with their local real estate colleagues, tradespeople, builders, architects, lawyers, government personnel, community leaders, and they should generally be confident to contend with any person or situation that’s common in their field.

"It's clear that while homebuyers are embracing technology, most still require the guidance of an agent to help save them time, keep them organized, and successfully take them through the closing process to get the best deal," said Daniel Maloney, head of sales at Owners.com. "Technology will continue to revolutionize the real estate market, but consumers still value and rely on their real estate agent."

Having knowledgeable buyers can make the process easier because buyer opinions and preferences are more sophisticated and true to the market.  They are realistic about what their budget will allow and sellers are more attuned to what their properties are worth. But Costa Rica real estate can be a dearth of information unless you find a good agency in your area of interest that caters to providing their market with accurate and helpful information.

Justin Fox of Forbes Real Estate Council insists that as you seek out your real estate professional, consider the following:

• Do ask a trusted friend or family member for a referral.

• Do online research: Review the agent's website for information about their experience and qualifications, review online testimonials, Google their name and explore the results page.

• Do ask them questions about some of the topics in this article, brokerage support, and any tech tools that might be helpful to you.

• Don't search by price alone. The cheapest option isn't always the best.

• Don't hire an agent out of a sense of obligation. Choose your agent based on their qualifications.

Osa Tropical Properties Real Estate Services is located in South Pacific Costa Rica.  We are a team of agents who are well-integrated in our Costa Ballena communities, serving the region that includes Dominical, Uvita, Ojochal, and Tres Rios de Coronado.  Check out our digital platforms for marketing property in Costa Rica:

www.osatropicalproperties.com

www.luxurypropertycostarica.com

www.costa-rica-immobilier.com

www.stunningcostarica.com

www.youtube.com/osatropicalproperties

f/osatropicalproperties

ig/costaricaproperties

We love to sell real estate in our adopted home country of Costa Rica, where each of us has lived for many years.  We know the ins and outs of the local real estate process and we have helped hundreds of clients buy and sell many homes.  We know the neighborhoods, the prices, and the real estate trends for our region. We invite you to check out our website to learn more about us, and about the part of the world that we love the most--South Pacific Costa Rica. 

Investing In South Pacific Costa Rica Real Estate – Top Tips For The Beginner

May 11, 2023 in Selling Process, Tips for Sellers, Buying Process, Tips for Buyers, Real Estate in Costa Rica, Discover Costa Rica

Investors have always found real estate to be a safe bet.  Investing in housing markets in places like Canada, the US, and Western Europe have traditionally been one of the best ways to build a fortune.  But some of today’s investors are looking for something extra and those who are willing to take on a bit more risk can look to markets further afield that hold a promise of a greater return on investment.

As a team of agents who have helped hundreds of clients find and manage property in South Pacific Costa Rica, here are our top tips for those investors who are searching to go a bit further into the potentially lucrative world of foreign real estate investment.

Location

Consider a number of factors when deciding on the best location for your investment.  Think of proximity and ease of access if you are looking to flip your investment in the near future, or if you are wanting to rent it to vacationers.  You can always find renters who don’t mind being a bit further and more private, but they are a smaller market when it comes to short-term vacation rentals.

Costa Rica also has the added benefit of being somewhere that is an absolute pleasure to property owners to visit time and again.  This is not the same experience as having a timeshare in Palm Beach, Florida. Enjoy peace, natural beauty, and fresh rejuvenation every time you visit.

Inspection

Check on what needs to be maintained regularly, renovated (now or in the near future), as well as what the management and administrative tasks are.  Be sure to visit the property before buying. While some buyers actively seek out fixer-upper properties, most home buyers prefer a house that is move-in ready – and they are willing to pay a reasonable premium for that comfort.  A new roof, for example, generally recoups more than 80% of its value when the home is sold. According to the National Association of Realtors, upgraded kitchens and bathrooms are among the most important upgrades cited by homebuyers because they represent a major expense (and headache) if the buyer has to upgrade them.  Whatever your preference, make yourself aware of what the costs for maintenance and repair will be before you budget.

History

The trends of the long-term real estate market in South Pacific Costa Rica have been mainly tied to the economic climate in the United States.  Because the vastly largest group of investors into Costa Rica “luxury” real estate have traditionally been from the United States, when the US housing market went up, so did Costa Rica’s.  The most recent booms in real estate were from 2004 until about 2007, which ended with the US housing market bubble bursting, and then again in 2013, after the 2012 US election year.

2018 has been an exceptional year in real estate in South Pacific Costa Rica.  Many high-end US housing markets are weakening at the moment due to high property taxes, and American real estate investors are looking outside of the country for new real estate opportunities.  Additionally, investment is increasing out of strong housing markets in Canada (like Toronto and Vancouver), and from the bigger European markets, like Germany and Switzerland, and especially in the case of France and the UK, which have been the targets of a multi-million dollar government advertising campaign aimed at promoting Costa Rica tourism to markets that also include Canada and Mexico.

Costa Rica’s popularity as an investment destination is undoubtedly linked to its reputation as a peace-loving country that abolished its national army in 1948, having no major political disturbances in the country since then.  It is safe and open to foreign investment, with investors having the same rights to buying and selling property as Costa Rican nationals. Costa Rica is also leading the world in sustainable tourism initiatives, renewable energy production per capita, and lowering the carbon footprint of the nation.

Exchange Rates

Superior purchasing power is one of the most attractive elements in purchasing real estate abroad.  In the case of Costa Rica’s local currency, the colon is tied to the American dollar, which has been trading fairly consistently over the last few years.  Euro purchasing power continues to increase in Costa Rica, although the Canadian dollar has seen a decline recently. Whatever it is, always check before sending money or making any big purchases as a few days can make a difference when it comes to large sums.  If you are savvy, take some time to calculate upper and lower exchange rates and your budget will be flexible enough to cover all of your expenses.

Taxes

Although not a tax haven, Costa Rica has very low property taxes (0.25%) and no capital gains tax in Costa Rica for foreign investors who are non-residents.  There are no special taxes for foreigners and no laws banning investment from abroad.

Neighborhood Comparisons

Comparable properties, referred to as “comps” in the real estate world, are properties that have sold in the area, which impact a home’s market value.  Real estate agents look at recent sales of homes with similar features to use as a benchmark against a new listing’s potential price. Short sales often complicate things because they tend to sell at lower prices, decreasing the neighborhood’s overall average sales price.

Due to the nature of our emerging market, many current sellers are short selling their older homes as they are ready to return “home” after 5-10 years of living or owning abroad.  This cycle is coming to a close as these old homes are selling quickly at a reduced price, and soon we will only be left with new homes of modern construction for sale at a premium price.

Return on Investment

To make this a true to form investment, Rich Dad Robert Kiyosaki will tell you that you need to use other people's money!  OTP agent, Marcia Oro, also a seasoned international real estate investor, says that she helps her clients manage their money when it comes to a long-term investment plan into Costa Rica.

"Bring your low equity loan from your home country," says Marcia.  "Rent your Costa Rica home while you are waiting to move here and use the rental income to pay for your 3% loan back home and use your investment to pay for itself."  Marcia says that if you try to get a loan in Costa Rica, you will be paying anywhere between 10-15%, sometimes more.

There is also the rare but real opportunity to find a gem in the market place - a property that is priced well below market value and is waiting to be discovered by the right buyer.  These properties typically exist in the $500k+ price range, where the average buyer is not looking for 'fixer upper' opportunity, but a luxury turnkey home.  The savvy investor can find such an opportunity right now in our Hot Listing of the Week.

Get Help

Even though Costa Rica is a great place to invest, don’t be fooled into thinking that the process for purchasing real estate is the same as in your home country.  You will absolutely find a different set of rules, regulations and bureaucratic red tape, but navigating this system can be easy with the right set of professionals.  Our team’s experience in the local real estate market is extensive and we are here to help.

The Importance of Luck in the Journey to Costa Rica

May 11, 2023 in Buying Process, Discover Costa Rica, Life in Costa Rica

I recently read an article about the importance of acknowledging the role of luck in our lives, and how this acknowledgment serves to build a more egalitarian society.  The reason why I bring up the topic of luck today is because I want to acknowledge the role that luck played in my coming to Costa Rica. There are many people who work hard all of their lives and still struggle, feeling like there are forces acting against them.  And there are those who are handed things down, or across tables, and who don’t show any signs of effort on their faces.

Then there are also those like me who grab at the chances that life hands us and follow these chances down the rabbit hole.  I don’t grab every single chance that comes my way, but when some feeling is stirring inside me, longing for adventure and excitement, I take the chances that present themselves in these moments, seemingly at random.  Who knows why these chances appear? What’s important is to take them when the moment feels right because we have no excuses to say yes or no when we don’t know how things will actually turn out and the outcome is largely up to “luck.”

For about two years now, I have been writing about real estate, news, and life in general in Costa Rica.  I have given the readers of my blogs a wide assortment of reasons for coming to Costa Rica and investing their money into property here.  I know why I did it and I know why many other people here do it, too. I’ll keep writing about these reasons for a while yet; but today, I want to acknowledge the roles of luck, chance, and acceptance in my journey and to say thank you to Costa Rica for welcoming me to live in her blessings.

My friend jokes that she and her walking group are witnessing an invasion of morphos this rainy season, seeing 10-12 electric blue butterflies every morning in the recent weeks.  I still feel like it’s a miracle every time I get to see one. I know that back in my city life in Canada, I wouldn’t have a daily cacophony of birds to wake me up, or the occasional monkey troupe to add a bit of baritone to the symphony.  There would be more cars and more concrete; less bees and less flowers.

I guess that I prefer life to be a bit softer and more natural.  And I think that I’m lucky to have this preference; otherwise I’d be elsewhere, never having taken the chance to live a little differently, and to learn to thrive in the wilderness.  I guess that we’re all lucky to live in a world where there is something for everyone, and we’re lucky to become the ones who find our something and grab hold of it when the time comes.

If you are feeling so lucky to hear the call of Costa Rica in your life, I recommend that you grab that chance and give it a good go.  It can be tough and it can be different, but difference is often what makes for that lucky feeling in our lives.

 

Stories from the Coast: Patiently Living The Pure Life in Ojochal

May 11, 2023 in Discover Costa Ballena, Discover Costa Rica, Life in Costa Rica

A new series brought to you by Osa Tropical Properties that features excerpts from our clients' stories - as written by them. Today's story is based in Ojochal, by a young Canadian expat who is passionate about gardening.

I don’t know many people here who stay out past 7pm, even on a weekend.  That’s not to say that it doesn’t happen for the pre-middle-agers like me, especially the ones without kids.  And it's not to say it doesn’t happen with any-agers here. But it’s funny how lifestyles change when you live the garden life.

More and more everyday, I get sleepy with the moon rising and I wake up with the sun.  I see the dawn and the sunset everyday, living most of my life outside. This isn’t that unusual, especially here in the South Pacific Costa Rican village of Ojochal.

We don’t yet have our own farm animals (just a couple of crazy dogs), but it’s not uncommon for expats to jump straight into animal husbandry.  Friends of mine who have been here since the start of the year already have around twenty chickens and 6 ducks on a small resort property in Ojochal that they are renovating from the ground up on a tight budget, using a lot of sweat equity.

I myself moved here temporarily to help my widowed mother sell our “family home” that she and my dad lived in permanently for the last ten years.  My family has been coming here annually for twenty. Even when I was living in New Zealand, I still came to see mum and dad every two years to catch up where we felt most comfortable.

In the last three years, I helped my mum relocate to a long abandoned two-story home not far from where she used to live, in the phases of Ojochal.  We bought it for a good price late last year and renovated it, piece by piece, working on it every day, before and after my day job as an online marketer.  We’ve loved the downsize from the 4-bedroom home and 2-bedroom guest house that we were living in before and we are completely making this old home our own, taking pieces of our former lives, building new furniture, hiring tradespeople to help with things like wiring and plumbing, and putting to work our knowledge about problem solving in Costa Rica.  And gardening.

Gardening has been my favourite aspect of living here so far.  I dream of creating a small permaculture ecosystem on our 2-acre property that borders a year-round river.  I want this to be a place from which the three of us can subsist, catching rainwater for the garden, collecting eggs, keeping tilapia ponds and a small number of animals on the property to help cycle the earth and water sustainably, replenishing nutrients naturally.  For now, we are planting fruit trees, herbs, medicinal plants, and ornamental plants that keep mosquitos away, or attract different species of butterflies and hummingbirds.

My terrace is filled with pots containing cuttings, seedlings, and small herbs for scents and protection from critters.  Of course, not everything works out around here, but this is a way of life. It is with a slow pace that we do loving battle with nature, work hard, till her earth, learn her secrets, work with her ways, and reap the rewards that she gifts us.  Already, we have weekly harvests of bananas, plantains, and coconuts. We had mangoes recently and avocados and cashews just before that. Periodically, we have a burst of fruit from the pitanga (brazilian cherry tree). All this from a property that had cows roaming on it only a year ago.

I have personally planted at least 200 small plants around our garden, of dozens of varieties.  We could splash out and pay for any one of the amazing local landscaping companies to do it for us, but we don’t see the fun in that.  For me, my mum and my boyfriend, the fun is the doing. We love seeing all of the incredibly beautiful tropical gardens of our friends and neighbors when we visit them, serving as inspiration for us to ask for a cutting or a seed and to patiently wait for our garden to bloom.

If you ask me, patiently awaiting a bloom that you know is going to come, with a bit of love and time, is la pura vida.

Steve Jobs’ 7 Unbreakable Laws of Success For Expats in Costa Rica

May 11, 2023 in Tips for Buyers, Discover Costa Rica, Life in Costa Rica, Real Estate in Costa Rica

In life, Apple CEO Steve Jobs told us to “think different” in the infamous campaign that shot MacIntosh computers to the forefront of the tech revolution in 1984.  And in his time spent writing three books about Steve Jobs, author Carmine Gallow shared the seven rules for success that he learned from following the mogul.  Here they are, reapplied for those considering making the move to start to “live different” in Costa Rica.

1. Follow your passions.

"Do what you love" is more than a line Steve Jobs delivered in his now famous Stanford commencement speech.  "People say you need to have a lot of passion for what you're doing and it's totally true," Jobs said. "The reason is because it's so hard that if you don't have it, any rational person would give up."

Out of those who have already visited Costa Rica, it is likely that many have experienced the passion evoked by the natural surroundings and pura vida lifestyle.  It is this passion that propels prospective buyers to navigate the foreign real estate market and all of the challenges that this presents. But if you can just make it to our office, we can help alleviate a lot of the stresses that people find about the home buying process in Costa Rica.

2. Find your noble cause.

When trying to woo a PepsiCo CEO to join Apple in 1983, Jobs asked "Do you want to sell sugar water for the rest of your life or do you want to come with me and change the world?" They took the job.

Once upon a time, people used to move to first world countries like the USA and Canada to seek out new opportunities.  Today, many people are turning to places like Costa Rica where living is less expensive, the climate is idyllic, the people are friendly, welcoming and non-judgmental, and the politics are geared towards sustainability and social equality.  Costa Rica is a destination for people who don't just look for business models; they look for noble causes and ways to give back to their local community.  It's easy to be inspired by those around you in a place as diverse in caring causes as the Costa Ballena.

3. Simplify everything.

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication," Jobs once said. He strived to build simplicity into everything, from design to strategy, focusing on only the “gem” products.

You have only so much energy and attention to give, and Costa Rica provides a back-to-nature-and-community platform from which to simplify everything and focus on the gems.  And the gems that are clear here are nature, family, friends, taking in the moment, clean food, clean energy, clean air, clean water, peace and tranquility.

4. Unleash your creativity.

Jobs once said the secret to creativity "comes down to trying to expose yourself to the best things that humans have done and then try to bring those things in to what you're doing."

Creativity happens when we expose ourselves to ideas outside of our field.  Those who come to Costa Rica learn quickly that this is not a country like the one they came from.  People here take their time. They are often late; they decide on if they will do something based on the weather that morning, or if they have nothing more important to do that day.  And rather than get frustrated, the expats who are successful in their Costa Rica endeavors learn from this culture that stress is unnecessary and often counter-productive; that family and safety take precedence over money or deadlines; and that “mañana” truly is another day.

5. Create "insanely great" customer experiences.

The key to the Apple Store success is its people. Apple hires for personality because they can teach anyone to sell an iPad; they can't teach friendliness.

The lesson here is to hire people who are passionate for the brand, and who have pleasant personalities and good culture.  So how does this apply to Costa Rica? Well, I’ll tell you that it applies in our office, and in a lot of what we see in our Costa Ballena communities.  Costa Rica wants only the best people here. We want our neighbors to be kind and caring and to look after their piece of Costa Rica with the same intentions as the rest of the nation, which are to conserve the environment and to welcome guests with warmth and respect.

6. Become the storyteller-in-chief.

Through the expert use of storytelling, Steve Jobs painted a picture of a villain, a struggle and a hero.

Costa Rica wants to tell you a story.  It is not a product to buy but a lifestyle to own by living it.  People come here to make their dreams of living a healthier, more physically connected life a reality.  From the moment you wake to the songs of the morning birds and howler monkeys, and the bright warm sun on your face as you step outside your door, your whole day will continue to be filled with powerful, emotional experiences from people and places that touch deep into your core.

7. Sell dreams, not products.

In a public presentation in 1997 to launch the iconic "Think Different" ad campaign, Jobs said, "Some people think they [Mac buyers] are crazy, but in that craziness we see genius."

Expat audiences don’t care about the place, the politics,  or the ideals of a destination as much as they care about themselves, their own hopes and their own dreams. The Costa Rica expat’s genius is that they can tell that this is going to be a place that inspires them, that feeds their creativity, and that helps put them in the right place - body, mind and spirit - to bring their dreams to life.

Osa Tropical Properties Real Estate in South Pacific Costa Rica: Market Report for August 2018

May 11, 2023 in Tips for Buyers, Tips for Sellers, Real Estate in Costa Rica

2018 was the first year that Costa Rica took the top spot in the International Living Global Retirement Index, topping the categories of healthy lifestyle and healthcare while scoring well in the fitting in, governance, entertainment and amenities, and climate categories.  People come from all over to get away from the daily drama of other parts of the world.  And as one of the most prosperous and politically stable nations in Latin America, Costa Rica is increasingly becoming known as a beacon of dependability, or “a country that has its act together,” according to International Living Magazine.

Recent history indicates a stable and steady economy, currently focused on growing their tech and service industries, and with a popularly elected government bent on promoting green industry and growing ecotourism.  For those who have studied the history of Costa Rica, it is easy to reach the conclusion that the country perceives itself as an island, ‘a country without problems, that must stay isolated from the insanity of the world’.  It has certainly stood out from its neighbors’ troubled history, priding itself on being one of the continent’s most stable democracies. This distinction has earned Costa Rica the nickname of ‘The Switzerland of Central America.’

Expats in Costa Rica often remark that this is a nation of gentle and welcoming people; the politics are low-key, and people are generally left alone to go about their business.  And it is for reasons like this that an increasing number of expats of all ages are coming to Costa Rica every year.   Sometimes it takes years of ruminating on the idea of expatriation, and prospective buyers want to see that Costa Rica’s reputation for being a safe, friendly, and clean country is only growing—year after year.  

It surely is not a perfect system and neither locals nor expats would claim that it is.  Some might even call it expensive when compared to neighboring nations; but compared to living in Canada, the US, or Europe, the monthly cost to live in Costa Rica is far less.  A retired couple could live very comfortably on $2,500 a month, or even less—all included.  For those who want to escape northern winters to a slower-paced lifestyle that includes good healthcare, a tropical climate that feels great on the skin and is good for the body, and a place where you can exercise outdoors every day, Costa Rica is a dream come true.  Here, people can and do live with a sense of adventure and are able to stretch their dollars in a climate that is warm, safe, and welcoming.

Tens of thousands of U.S., Canadian, and increasingly European expats already live in Costa Rica full- or part-time. And millions have traveled here over the years for beach-resort vacations, surfing, fishing, rainforest treks, and more. With many Costa Ricans speaking English, it's pretty easy for visitors to navigate while learning more Spanish from helpful people in every day scenarios.

The Local Economy

Costa Rica is known for its cutting-edge character and for being a pioneer in the construction of sustainable development, as suggested by the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres. Costa Rica’s new president si, 38-year-old former journalist Carlos Alvarado, recently announced a plan to make his country the first carbon-neutral nation in the world by 2021, the 200th anniversary of its independence.  The tiny Central American country is signaling it wants to beat larger, wealthier countries to environmental glory by using incentives for decarbonization.

Costa Rica is also continuing to forge partnerships with larger economies around the world.  In the first semester of 2018, sales of goods abroad totaled US$5.718 billion, registering an increase of 6% with respect to the same period in 2017.  The UAE is one such market that is increasingly looking to work together with Costa Rica on mutual interests such as increasing tourism and renewable energy.  Costa Rica is already a large importer of UAE aluminium, dates and dried fruits, while the Emirates imports furniture, electronic cables, medical devices and pineapples. Its bananas and coffee will soon be introduced to the UAE market.  Costa Rica recently opened its first UAE embassy and since then trade between the two countries has increased by 15 per cent. Costa Rica hopes to attract more medical tourists, especially for cheaper plastic surgery, dental care, eye surgery and rehabilitation in a place where nature sets recovering patients in a healing mental mindset.

Multinational companies like Align Technology are committed to investment in Costa Rica because of the combination of highly specialized local talent, location, and business conditions that enable companies to expand local operations.  They view Costa Rica as an economy with optimal conditions for leading companies to invest, add value to their productive processes and strengthen their competitive position in international markets, according to Costa Rica Foreign Trade Minister, Dyalá Jiménez.

Growth in Real Estate

The last 10 months have shown an increase in private construction and growth in the economy.  The Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) has recently reported that construction activity had a variation of 13.3% in May, compared to the same month of 2017. 

Coincidentally, our office is registering far more new buyers in 2018 than in recent years past.  After the 2016 election cycle in the US, Costa Rica was anticipating a huge rise in expats in 2017.  We have since learned that no matter the motivation, it takes our clients many months and often years to process the idea and plan for a big investment and bigger move to another country.  But we are increasingly convinced that the federal marketing plan of Costa Rica abroad, and our own office's consistently exceptional service standards and reputation, are bringing more clients to our neck of the woods and into our office in the Southern Zone of Costa Rica, in one of the most biologically intensive wildlife corridors in the world, and with one of the most relaxed, friendly and fun international communities in the country.

New listings that are priced to our recommendation and that show well (are clean, well-maintained, and available to show on short notice) are quick to sell, generally staying on the market for an average of 3 months and selling within 5% of the asking price (sometimes more, sometimes less).

With the continued growth of the economy, political stability, and national passion for sustainability of all that makes Costa Rica so popular, we are convinced that heading into the high season towards the end of the year, the real estate market in South Pacific Costa Rica will continue to grow over recent years.

Indigenous Tribes of Costa Rica

May 11, 2023 in Discover Costa Rica, Life in Costa Rica

Out of Costa Rica’s population of over 5 million, indigenous people in Costa Rica make up approximately 120,000, or roughly 2.4% of Costa Rica’s population. And of Costa Rica's 50,900 km2 area of land, 5.9% of the land is labeled as indigenous territory.

Indigenous peoples have lived in Costa Rica for what stretches back to at least 10,000 years before the arrival of Christopher Columbus, who reached Costa Rica in 1502 on his last trip to the Americas. Native groups in Costa Rica at the time were descended from and culturally influenced by Mesoamerican tribes from Central and North America and Macrochibcha tribes from northern South America.

The first tribes to settle in Costa Rica were hunters and gatherers, but as time passed and experience and knowledge of the land, plants, and animals developed, tribes became more organized, civilized, and sophisticated. Tribes became permanently based over time and stable communities were formed around the land that is now Costa Rica.

At the time of the arrival of the European conquistadores and African slaves, most of the roughly 25 tribes of as many as 500,000 indigenous Costa Ricans lived in simple subsistence economies in hierarchical structures ruled by chief called a "Cacique." When the Spaniards arrived, many tribes moved inland and into the mountains in order to avoid slavery and taxation by the Spaniards. 

Pre-Columbian Costa Rican indigenous culture did not leave many artifacts behind and most are simple products like pottery and ornaments. There is no evidence of highly developed settlements like the pyramids and stone structures found in other parts of Central and South America. Most prominently, Costa Rica's South Pacific coast has the stone spheres of the Diquis, for which archaeologists have yet to uncover a definitive purpose. Hundreds of them have been found of varying sizes scattered all over from the beaches to the mountainsides of the Sierpe river valley region and beyond.

In 1977, the government passed the Indigenous Law, which created a reserves system in Costa Rica. Due to this law, there were created a total of 24 indigenous territories located throughout the country. Today’s indigenous Costa Ricans belong to eight major ethnic groups, many of whom rely on tourism to survive and believe that tourism is good for their culture, bringing in money in exchange for education and crafts, thus keeping their culture alive, while also keeping out negative influences like narcotics gangs.

The tribes of Macro-Chibcha ethnic origin

There are five tribes that have been traced back to Macro-Chibcha origin, which is mainly from the northern region of South America, including the Amazon. The Guaymíes, Cabécares, Bribris, Térrabas, and Borucas tribes all emigrated to Costa Rica from the south. Today these tribes are still present in Costa Rica, though in much smaller numbers than in pre-Columbian times.

The Boruca of Southern Costa Rica

About 2,660 people are in the Boruca tribe today.  They mainly live in the Puntarenas area of Costa Rica on one of the first reservations established for indigenous peoples of Costa Ricans.  Boruca culture is founded on faith in the wisdom of elders and the Boruca legends have been passed down for centuries.  The identity of the Boruca reflects a deep respect for the stories told, the nature that surrounds them, and the community that they share.

The indigenous Boruca people of Costa Rica are still deeply rooted in their ancestral traditions and have grown popular for their crafts. They are well known for their annual Fiesta de los Diablitos, which is a festival to celebrate their resistance and cultural survival against the conquistadores. During the festival, a performance of the Devil (the Indians) versus the Bull (the Spanish conquistadores) is staged, and home-made chicha (a fermented alcoholic beverage, derived from maize) is drunk during the performance to enhance strength and bravery.

The Borucas make beautiful and detailed wooden masks for the festival and metaphorical reenactment.  Wearing devilish looking masks, they are said to be the only tribe in Costa Rica that scared the Spaniards away and managed to keep their land from being conquered at the time of Columbus. The Boruca people are very proud to have survived the struggles between the native tribes and Spanish conquistadors in the 1500s with their village and sense of identity intact. While many indigenous tribes consider themselves to have been defeated by the Spanish, the Boruca believe that a tribe cannot be defeated if its culture is still alive today.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51maoYkhrV8

The Bribri of the Southern Atlantic Coast

Residing in the regions across the southern part of Costa Rica, from the Atlantic almost to the Pacific, Bribri reservations include Salitre and Cabagra in the Canton of Buenos Aires and Talamanca in the Canton of Limon.  This is a region of the country that is slow to develop and electricity only arrived here in 1986.  The Bribri comprise the voting majority in the Puerto Viejo de Talamanca area and their population is considered to be up to 35,000.

The Bribri have a specific social structure that is organized into clans. Each clan is composed of an extended family and women hold the higher status in their society.  Their children's clans are determined by whichever clan their mother's come from and it's the women in the Bribri society who are the only ones who can inherit land.  They are also the ones who prepare the sacred cacao drink used during ritual ceremonies. The Bribri believe that the cacao tree used to be a woman and God (known as “Sibu”) turned her into a tree.

Men's roles in Bribri culture are defined by their clan and they often take roles that are performed exclusively by men. The spiritual leader, or "awa," is very important to the Bribris, and only men are able to fill this role. Still today, the awa will concoct powerful cures out of more than 1,500 plants, believing that there is nothing thatthe forest can not cure.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qbib4JrQJfs

The Cabécares of Cordillera de Talamanca

Many studies on the subject consider the Bribri and Cabécares as part of the same ethnicity because of their similar views on “Sibu.”  But while parts of the Bribri tribe live the lowland areas of the Cordillera de Talamanca, the Cabecarés are isolated in the mountains of the Cordillera. And although the Cabécar Indians are one of the larger indigenous group in Costa Rica (around 10,000 members), they are thought to be the most isolated and have been less influence by progress than the neighboring Bribri.  Since European (Mestizo) colonization, the Cabécares relocated to a remote area in the Chirripo Mountains, requiring a few hours hike to reach. Therefore, the Cabécar Indians do not have access to basic amenities like clean water, sanitation or state education or health care systems.

The Cabécar are considered to be a very traditional tribe. Having preserved their culture over time, they presently mainly only speak their own Cabécar language. They prefer to practice their traditional medicine and way of life and they have a rich collection of stories and legends, some of which are written down in both Spanish and the Cabécar language.  The Cabécar are a patrimonial culture in which the Cacique (chief) of the tribe is permitted to marry several wives.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jyirL5KFew

The Guaymí of Southern Costa Rica, along the Panamá border

Located mainly in the South Pacific regions of Corredores, Golfito and Coto Brus, the predominantly agricultural Guaymí emigrated from Panama to Costa Rica in the 1960s to grow bananas, rice, corn, beans and more. The majority of them live in poverty because they live in secluded areas. They primarily grow cacao, rice, beans, corn, bananas, and oil palms.  They also subsist on hunting, fishing, and pig breeding.

Their colorful and handcrafted traditional costume of the Guaymí is still widely worn today and they practice garment manufacturing from natural fibers, colored with natural dyes and tints, mats, and hats made from tree bark.. Their language is Guaymí, but some of the chiefs and officers also speak Spanish. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPWiNPwl8tc

The Térraba of Southern Costa Rica

There are presently around 3,300 Térraba people living in the Canton of Buenos Aires, on the Reserve of Boruca-Térraba, many of whom live in poverty due to much of their forest land being cleared over the years.  Their territory is populated by non-indigenous peasants, despite the Indigenous Law of 1977.  

Although this ethnic group has preserved much of its cultural identity, they have not retained their original language outside of the elders of the tribe.  A larger group of Teribe who live in Panama still use the language and the two groups are still in contact.  They primarily subsist on agriculture, growing corn, beans, rice, bananas and citrus fruit.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGkS9lj3jQM

Tribes of the Mesoamerican ethnic origin

There are three tribes in Costa Rica that are of Mesoamerican descent, having traveled south to Costa Rica from the north. The Huetares, Chorotegas, and Guatusos or Malekus tribes have been traced back to indigenous groups from Mexico and Guatemala, such as the Mayans and Aztecs.

The Maleku of Northern Alajuela

The Maleku are an indigenous group of only about 600 people, located in the San Rafael de Guatuso Indigenous Reserve. Before Spanish colonization, their territory extended as far west as Rincon de la Vieja, and included the volcano Arenal to the south and Rio Celeste as sacred sites. Today their reserve is located about an hour north of La Fortuna. Although their land was much larger prior to colonization, they are now working on buying their own land back from the government.

Of the Northern Costa Rica tribes, the Maleku are the smallest and most endangered group, living on less than 2 square miles of land north of Volcano Arenal.  Having lost the majority of their land since the time of the conquistadores, the traditional methods of subsistence of hunting and farming became impossible and they now rely primarily on iguana meat for their diet.  The Maleku people are also working to protect their language, of which there are only about 300 speakers left.

Their economy is based on tourism, and visitors can take part in a plant tour to learn about their traditional medicines found in the wild.  Visitors can also buy their carved masks, painted balsa bowls, ceramics, bow and arrows, and musical instruments.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9iHiqILGEYk

The Matambú of Chorotega

The Matambú, also known as the Chorotega, are located in the Guanacaste province on the North Western part of Costa Rica. The Chorotegas translates to "The Fleeing People," describing a group of Maya who fled to Costa Rica in approximately AD 500 from enslavement in Southern Mexico by rival tribes. Parts of their Mayan culture are evident in their language and rituals, including human sacrifice in pre-Columbian times.

The Chortegas were thought to have been the most powerful and technologically advanced tribe prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, during which time they organized a military group and fought against the conquistadores. There is evidence that they were a democracy and elected Caciques to be the leaders in a hierarchical group (the Nicoya Peninsula is even named for a Chorotega chief who ruled the area when the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Costa Rica in 1523).  The Chorotega maintained strong religious rituals and were competent astronomers and mathematicians and cacao beans served as currency.

The Chorotega frequently fought with neighboring peoples and tribal warriors wore padded cotton armor and fought with bows and arrows and wooden swords tipped with small flint knives. Although they were eventually conquered by the Spanish, the Chorotega were reported to be courageous warriors who fought hard against the invaders.  Unlike the Borucans who literally scared away their invaders garbed in only scary devilish looking masks, the Chorotegans fought as an organized military group, wearing only padded cotton armor.  They were armed with bow and arrow and wooden swords to fight against the more sophisticated weapons of the Spaniards.  Despite their valiant efforts, the geography of the peninsula was against their favor and the Chorotegans were trapped and conquered.

The area of the Chorotegans now centers near Guaitil (Santa Cruz) in Guanacaste. The soil is mostly clay, which is still used to make the bricks for their "longhouses."  Today, the Chorotegans produce beautifully handcrafted pottery and cookware that they sell commercially and to tourists who visit their region.  They are also expert beekeepers and known for their honey.  Chorotegan pottery is famous in Costa Rica and is still being made in the towns of Guaitil and San Vicente. Typically, the women are the artisans and they create beautiful pieces that depict native animals of Costa Rica, like the jaguar and crocodile.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58NLAiiWyn4

The Huetar of Quitirrisi

The Huetar, or Quitirrisi, are the third remaining northern Costa Rican tribe, with members numbering around 2,000.  The Huetar are located in Ciudad Colon and Puriscal in the Central Valley, living on their reserves, located west of the capital of Costa Rica, San Jose. Very little of the Huetar culture survives, and only a few tribe members speak their ancestral dialect.  Their reserve land is relatively infertile, but they do grow corn and are still known for their tradition of "Fiesta del Maiz" in October. They also practice traditional herbal medicine, using tribal knowledges passed down through generations to use the forest for healing.

The Huetar’s crafts for sale to visitors include hand-woven baskets, straw hats, woven floor mats colored with natural dyes, and some ceramics.  You can find a few roadside stands selling these products; however, their main source of income is generated by workers finding employment in nearby San Jose.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHJPzXJhYpA

Young Families in the Costa Ballena: What it's Like to Bring Your Kids to Costa Rica

May 11, 2023 in Discover Costa Rica, Life in Costa Rica

We all know that we are living in a complicated world to be raising kids, but families are increasingly choosing Costa Rica in order to simplify. These parents are finding that they get to spend far more time with their families while getting back to the natural basics on a daily basis together.

In Costa Rica, expat parents are finding new ways to earn income--either working remotely online with their current business or employer, or starting a new business from their Costa Rica home or studio space. The may not be earning as much vacation money as before (although some do). But their everyday lives have become more like an extended family holiday, surrounded by wildlife, beaches and tropical weather.

Children find a way to cope with the change, too. Many children find that it's not that hard to enjoy a stunning natural setting and a friendly, welcoming community--even if they don't speak the same language.

Every year, more parents of young kids are finding that it's far easier to return to the simple life than they imagined!  Their kids still go to school in English but they get to learn another language and have the impactful experience of being immersed in another culture.

But where do parents with young children move to in the Costa Ballena? The easy answer is: anywhere! You will find more and more young expat couples with small kids in the communities of Dominical, Uvita and Ojochal. And if you're looking for more detailed information about what the Costa Ballena has to offer families, please read on.

Schools

Most expat parents want their children to graduate with a US or International diploma. In order to do so, they need to begin attending a US accredited school in secondary school. Most of the English language and Bilingual schools in the area are working on their MEP accreditation due to the increase in demand from parents moving to this region. There are MEP accredited school around Costa Rica and it won't be long before our local schools are granted these tools.

Even still, many parents find that schools here are not limiting. Children who have graduated from secondary schools locally have gone on to study around the world with success.

There are three English language private schools in which Spanish is taught as a second language. There are also a number of Costa Rican public schools.

Escuela Verde - Learning beyond classroom studies, students are exposed to experts from a variety of fields who teach them hands-on experience in topics like botany and permaculture.

Uvita Christian Academy - students will graduate with a US diploma that is internationally accredited (still working on MEP accreditation). The school supplements their regular teachers with graduates from Greenhead College in the UK who come for one term exchange programs. They take the classroom outdoors for fun and educational field trips.

Kabe International Academy - Newly open in September 2018, the school’s mission is to passionately educates for the future in order to contribute positively to our community and world.

All of the above schools are recommended for their good curriculums, avenues for social & lingual (with UCA also spiritual) development, and instructors who have a passion for teaching children.

Local schools - Uvita public school and Cortez schools are less frequently chosen by expat families. Those who do choose to put their children in the local public school system are richly rewarded with learning to speak and write fluently in Spanish. These children end up integrating more easily into the local community, so families in for the long-haul in Costa Rica often choose this option.

After-school Activities

A number of organized after-school activities and programs exist for kids in the Costa Ballena. Children can learn skills, engage their talents, and explore the wonders of the region in safe care. Below are a few examples of what types of organized activities are available and popular with families in the Costa Ballena:

Team sports - pick up games can be found on any beach or field, but playing on a competitive level is available, too. Team sports are a great way for kids to learn Spanish in a fun environment while also learning team etiquette and getting exercise. Places like the Eden Community Center in Uvita have a calendar of events open to the public.

Junior Lifeguard Program - The Costa Ballena Lifeguards occasionally provide a Junior Lifeguard Program for the youth in the Costa Ballena region. Their aim is to teach the youth to respect the ocean and the dangerous currents and big waves. They also teach their "junior lifeguards" about treating common injuries and practice a bit of endurance training, swimming, and other exercises.

Dance classes - Happy Feet Ballet Academy and Starlight Productions are two dance schools in the Costa Ballena that have world-renown instructors and producers putting on local productions of exemplary quality and skill.

Centro Educativo School Break Activities - Electronic Music and The Art of Printing were two courses offered in 2018 to keep kids learning and entertained during school break. Activities are catered to different age groups.

Entertainment

The thing about living in the Costa Ballena is that typical vacation-type activities can be an everyday norm! Here are a few that families can partake in without a huge financial investment: surfing, boogie boarding, playing in waterfalls, hiking/exploration, horseback riding, visiting National Parks and animal sanctuaries, snorkeling at nearby Manuel Antonio National Park, river cruising, ziplining, night animal tours, and quite a few more that are free or cheap.

Live Music - Because kids love dining out and live music, places like the Jolly Roger in Dominical and the Bamboo Room in Ojochal offer earlier live music (also popular with the retired expat, too) for the whole family to enjoy. Most restaurants have kid-friendly menus and the indoor-outdoor environments that are typical of Costa Rica mean that kids have room to play while waiting for food.

Museums - San Jose has a few options to offer, including the Children’s Museum, National Theatre, and Jade Museum. But a bit closer to here is Finca 6, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can learn about the mysterious Diquis Spheres.

Animal sanctuaries and nature reserves - there are many volunteer organized shelters, sanctuaries and reserves that have a number of programs that help educate kids and adults in the local community about protecting species and their environment; as well as community outreach and taking steps to help species under the care and guidance of experts.

Shared events -  Things like community movie nights are becoming more regularly scheduled events at the Escuela Verde, with doors opening at 5pm and a small entrance fee, with all are welcome to attend and lots of families with young kids as regulars.

Shopping and Services

Because many families move to Costa Rica to lead a more natural lifestyle complete with healthy, organic foods, there are a growing number of farmers’ markets in the Costa Ballena.  The Eco Farmers Market in Dominical is open on Fridays from 8am to 1pm at Patrons Restaurant for organic produce and hand-crafted goods. Mama Toucans in Dominical offers daily shopping over over 5000 items, all certified organic. Sur Organico is a daily vendor of organic produce in Uvita and there is a Wednesday mercado in the center of Bahia Uvita.

English-speaking pediatricians are available in the Costa Ballena. Dr. Maria Gustavo works out of her office in Uvita and at the Cortes Hospital, and she speaks English (2743-8743); and Dr. Jaime at the pharmacy provides cards and vaccinations.

Uvita Daycare charges $250 a month for 5 days a week, 8 hours a day, and can communicate in German, English, French and Spanish. Uvita also has the Centro Educativo, which is the Daycare/After-School care part of Escuela Verde.

In Ojochal, there is the Beit-El Guarderia that is said to have reasonable prices and the daycare director has a degree in education.

Community Support

For many years, there has been a youth program in Uvita called Forjando Alas. They have an after-school program that provides a safe place for at risk youth in the Costa Ballena community.  They rely on donations and volunteers from the community who share skills, activities, English, and self-confidence with kids.

Many expat-organized activities and program welcome all participation, regardless of financial circumstances (operating on sliding scales). There is a strong community desire for creating recreational and professional opportunities for children through sponsorship programs or teaching for free.

This region has been blessed with expats and locals who have seen needs and sought to fill them. One example is Juan Carlos, the owner of the two Jucaloa supermercados in Ojochal, who organizes a Christmas party for children in and around Ojochal. Shoppers donate presents beforehand to be distributed at the party.

Along the same lines is a Christmas party for the children and parents in Boruca--a nearby indigenous community. Organized by a group of expats from Ojochal, they distrubute toys and supplying lunch, soft drinks, and ice cream. The event has grown over 18 years and depends on donations.

Families also get involved in beach clean-ups, fundraisers, and events that are meant to bring anyone and everyone together from the community, to help create a safe and cooperative future for all to enjoy.

Parenting Networks

Dozens of groups exist for networking in our Costa Ballena region--all it takes is a simple search to find them. For those who want to meet in the physical world, parents throw parties and sleepovers for their little ones after connecting over time through daily encounters on the local family circuit. Whether your kids go to school together, take surf lessons together, share yoga classes, or just bump into each other at the feria, it’s easy to feel a sense of community in the Costa Ballena between young families of any background.

The Costa Ballena is full of opportunities for families of all ages and backgrounds to share in the enjoyment of the natural environment and it's all thanks to our close-knit communities. Come and share in the growth of a better future for all in Costa Rica.

What to Bring: The Costa Rican Expat’s Wishlist of Things from Back Home

May 11, 2023 in Tips for Buyers, Discover Costa Rica

Packing up your life back home is overwhelming.  It’s a time for reflection, going through all of the things that you use every day, and all of the things that you hardly use and sometimes forgot that you have.  And if you are moving to a whole new country and climate, like Costa Rica is bound to be for a lot of people, it is a time to deliberate on what it is that you will need moving forward in your new, tropical home.  And who better to ask than the expats who have already migrated over and come to the realizations of what was important and what could have easily been left behind?

Below is a list of items to potentially bring with you, organized by the typical rooms of the house.  We will also include items to exclude from packing and the reasons why.

Bedrooms

Good sheets are hard to find when you don’t have dozens of strip malls, each filled with stores all competing with each other for stock and prices.  Most expats in Costa Rica do their big shopping expeditions on infrequent trips to San Jose, the border of Panama, or on a lesser scale, to San Isidro (the closest of the three destinations but with a few less options than the other two).  So, if you are looking for high-quality bedding like a very high thread count or made out of specialty material like bamboo or vintage-washed cotton, you are better to bring these items from home.

Don’t bother bringing furniture, which can be purchased here for very reasonable prices, made from locally-sourced hardwoods (see here for a list of typical woods used in locally crafted furniture) that are especially treated for the climate and against bugs.  Pillows are easy enough to source here of all qualities, but if you have room for them, bring your favorites.  Curtains are easy to purchase off the shelves or have made by a local seamstress for a good price, same with blankets if you need them.  

Kitchen

Dish towels and cleaning cloths are small, easy to bring, and the ones you know and love will make you happier than the ones you can find here, which can leave you wanting more.  Cellulose sponges are also of a lesser quality here, falling apart far more quickly than the ones that you can bring with you, even those from the dollar store. What you don’t need to bring are generic dish liquids, degreasers, or any type of cleaning products including eco friendly ones, which are scarcer to source here than they are in Europe or North America, but you can find some locally produced brands for a reasonable price if you want to be eco-conscious and support the local economy, or you can make your own.

When it comes to kitchen appliances, you will find the basics (stove, refrigerator, microwave, toaster, etc) easily and of good quality and price in comparison to what you know.  But if you can’t live without your Vitamix, electric salad spinner or instant cooking pot, definitely consider bringing those because you won’t quickly replace them here. Good quality chef’s knives are hard to find here, too, and will undoubtedly cost more than bringing yours over.

Moving on to the cupboards, if you like to cook ethnic cuisines that require specialty spices, bring those with you in sealed pouches that are clearly labeled.  Items that people generally bring from home include anything authentically ethnic that you would typically have to travel to your nearest big city’s cultural clusters like Chinatown markets, Italian quarters, etc, where there are specialty shops dedicated to imported goods.  Also, bakers should bring their bread molds because you simply won’t find them here, and grillers should bring their cooking thermometers. Leave your bbq and utensils at home, though, unless they are top of the line and you can’t grill without them. In saying that, bring your favorite marinating spice mix and bbq sauce recipes for sure!

Water filtration /purification devices tend to be better from outside of Costa Rica. Although the water out of the taps in the Costa Ballena is clean spring water, some still prefer the peace of mind of a UV light filter that treats all the water entering the house and a Berkey for all the drinking and cooking water.  If you are one of those people (no judgment, because you are not alone), it’s best to bring these with you, too.

Bathrooms

Good quality, super plush towels are less abundant than where you are coming from, so if you have room in your luggage, bring some of these over for that homely feeling when you get out of the shower. You can always start with a small collection and grow it as time goes on.  It’s best not to keep closets full of towels and linens that you are not using because they take up space in the dry room and collect mold otherwise if they are not often used. Being a tropical beach country, beach towels can be bought from any seaside stall. Quick-dry towels, on the other hand, are not easy to find here.

If you have sensitive teeth and need your Sensodyne toothpaste, or if you have a particular brand of skin care product that you love, bring at least a one year's supply.  Although you may find these items here, they are small enough to bring with you because you will pay more for them here.

Closets

Non-leather sneakers that are well-made and breathable are always nice to have here and yet difficult to find.  Same goes for hiking sandals like Tevas or Keens, or really good quality flip flops (made of hemp, for example).  Don’t bring anything leather (shoes, purses, belts, pants, etc) because it molds, so unless you wear an item every day, don’t bother.

A surprising suggestion for this hot climate is to bring 100% cotton clothing.  It’s very difficult to find pure cotton undergarments, shirts, shorts, really anything.  There is a lot of cheap synthetic clothing here, but unless you like to sweat non-stop or you want to sit inside in the A/C all day, it’s simply inadvisable.  Actually, don’t even bother bringing much else for yourself because you can find a lot of mildly used second-hand clothing in the prevalent tienda ropa americanas, where tourists and expats dump their heavy luggage contents off before leaving with suitcases full of souvenirs.

UV protection clothing and hats are recommended for children and you can probably find them at a cheaper price where you are coming from, so bring a few pairs because your little ones will wear through them quickly in the rugged outdoor play.  Bring water shoes for your little ones, too, who want to run and play in the waterfalls and rocky beaches. And on the subject of children, bring toys, books and educational materials for the language you want your children to be reading if it’s not Spanish.

For those who value a neat appearance, consider bringing a decent steaming device.  Silk will also get ruined, so leave those precious pieces with a trusted person in your hometown.

Living Spaces

Once again, don't even think about bringing furniture -- you can have it custom made here from tropical woods, which will undoubtedly last longer.

Although you can find all manner of electronics here, you may not find the brands you want for the prices you want.  So if it’s small enough or you really value a piece of sound-reproducing equipment and you can safely transport it, do so.  Nevertheless, don’t bring CDs, DVDs, or records because they will be ruined by the salty, moist air. Same goes for books and pictures, so only bring those photos or prints that are well-sealed in a tight frame.  But don’t bring things like flat screen tvs, which you can buy any size or brand here for pretty good prices.

If you’re an Apple user, bring an extra charger for your device(s) because you may not find the right one for your specific model in a pinch.  And if you are musical, bring the necessary cleaning items and replacement parts for your instruments, such as guitar strings or saxophone reeds. Again, you can find them here or order them online, but if you need extras handy, best to bring them or risk driving 4 hours in a crunch to find them.

Some people will tell you to bring a UPS backup device.  This is outdated information, considering the amount of devices that people have and how many heavy UPSs that would be for you to pack and you can buy them at any of the larger shopping destinations when you arrive.

Really good craft scissors are one of those items that not everyone will need, but if you are into crafting your own items out of cloth, this is something you will regret leaving behind.

Garage

Tools are often a man’s best friend, but finding the right ones here can be your worst nightmare!  Good luck trying to find a cordless cement drill or a set of diamond tipped drill bits, and no chance of seeing heavy duty wall anchors in your local ferreteria.  And if you have an arsenal of battery-operated devices, bring a Costco sized battery pack to save your money. Even better if you bring solar/or rechargeable lights for in the dark, which are hard to find here.

Outdoors

Strong DEET bug spray is best to bring with you, and high SPF sunscreen, too.  And if you prefer the natural vibes, there is plenty in the way of bug spray but less of the sunscreen that is non-toxic to coral reefs.

Being a country of water activities, swimming gear is fairly prevalent for kids and adults of average size.  But if you have special size requirements, consider bringing swimming gear with you from home or you will have to have it specially made for you here.  It’s a great alternative, but not very convenient for a quick purchase.

High quality beach chairs are good to bring for those camp outs on the beach, especially the ones with all of the extra pockets and drink holders.  If you have dogs, bring long leashes, tie-out cords, extra collars, ID tags (engraved), and again, make sure they are all non-leather.

In Conclusion

In 2018, Costa Rica began receiving parcels directly from Amazon, however at an extra cost than it would be to deliver in North America. As a result, expats tend to rely on periodic trips back to the first world, or friends and family visiting to bring packages with them to Costa Rica.

While living in the land of pura vida, expats learn to be resourceful and live without that which we once assumed that we needed.

Our recommendation is to come light, start off as simple as possible, and get a feel for what you would like to add to increase your enjoyment, not just to weigh you down for no reason. There will be things that you find that you need along the way, but they can also wait for the next trip up north.

And if it’s big ticket items that you find you want to import after you move, you can have your order delivered to the Southern Zone with Get It There Jerry for very reasonable shipping rates, and very reliable and professional service.

Retiring to Costa Rica (The Ultimate Guide)

May 11, 2023 in Life in Costa Rica, Tips for Buyers

Retirees have long been drawn to Costa Rica for the quiet, peaceful living amid nature, the relative safety, the democratic and socially accepting people, and the ease and security of investment.  Nevertheless, we still have people contacting us every day, asking us about what it’s like to retire in Costa Rica. And rather than hosting individual retirement tours for everyone who is more than a little bit curious, here is a simple guide that answers the most popular questions about what life is like in a post-work paradise.

Healthcare

Costa Rica is known for having quality medical care, reputed to be some of the best in Latin America. Retirees in Costa Rica have a choice of the private system or CAJA, the universal health care system. Note that you must secure Costa Rica residency prior to participation in CAJA. As proof of success, Costa Rica is fast becoming a prime medical tourism destination, reflecting the quality of care and reasonable costs.  Treatments in Costa Rica can be as much as 75% cheaper than many first world nations.

In the Caja universal healthcare system, all treatments and procedures are covered by the monthly fees.  This fee is subject to each individual’s financial circumstances, and expats from first world countries can expect to pay an average of $90 per month, per couple.  There are often long wait times for non-emergency situations; however, there is always the option of private healthcare if you are in a hurry to have results.

For those seeking private healthcare, world-class hospitals like CIMA, Hospital Clinica Biblica, and Hospital Clinica La Catolica  are available on a first come, first serve basis. These three hospitals have doctors that have been trained internationally, with top of the line equipment for all manner of procedures.  Every hospital in the country has private and public options, though, so if you would like to fast-track a procedure, you can choose to pay upfront in your local facility. Most who are seeking private healthcare will likely travel to San Jose, though, to receive treatment from one of the world-class, internationally favored facilities listed above.

As another immediate care option, many pharmacies have a doctor on staff that will give free healthcare advice and provide the right over-the-counter medication for the “simpler” ailments.

Overall Health

A variety of super-foods grow natively in this region.  They are proven to be packed full of vitamins, minerals and enzymes and many have taken to believing that this is a land of miracle cures.  Many expats have been planting their roots here for years with the aim of improving their health and well-being, and many have found remarkable success.  Some forward thinking doctors support the practice of a change in lifestyle to improve health, and there are few places in the world that afford the opportunities for retreat available in Costa Rica.

Shopping/Groceries

Shopping is not quite the same experience in Costa Rica as it is in most first-world nations.  Superstores, malls, or big box/discount stores are only found in the big city centers like San Jose, or San Isidro (the closer option for those living in the Costa Ballena).  For us an dour neighbors, we do the majority of our shopping at the local supermercado (like a mini supermarket), or we head to the commercial hub of our region, Uvita.  There, you will find weekly farmer's markets (Wednesdays and Saturdays) where you find fresh, local, seasonal produce, herbal remedies, seeds, soaps and more, all sold by local farmers for a good price.  There are also two large supermarkets and many boutique stores in the area at which you can find all your essential items, and many luxury imported items (although they will be at an additional cost to what you can buy them back home).

Expats typically learn to live without their imports and choose the local alternatives, which you are likely to find for a comparable price.  A bag of Doritos might be $5 USD, but the local alternative will be less than half that cost.

Shopping centers in the Costa Ballena will typically have a bank (or at least an ATM) and a variety of other stores, ranging from pharmacies, dental offices, cafes, clothing boutiques, souvenir shops, "dollar stores," liquor stores, restaurants of all manner - really, everything that you have come to expect from shopping in the first world, just on a smaller scale.

Services

It is a fact that there is a fiscal disparity between first world nations and countries like Costa Rica.  The average wage here is about $4 USD per hour. However, value is not equatable between countries, considering that Costa Rica is consistently surveyed to be one of the happiest nations on the planet.  People here grow up enjoying the simple pleasures in life, like swimming in a clean river or enjoying pristine, natural beaches that are not overly populated.

As a retired investor, you can take advantage of having your hard earned dollars go further than they would in your home nation.  You can hire a gardener and maid for far less than you would be able to afford elsewhere, while still paying them a livable wage. Not only that, but you will be investing into an economy that supports equal rights for men and women, universal healthcare, universal education, and environmentally-sound national policies.

Travel

There are two international airports in Costa Rica, with many carriers flying direct to numerous ports around the world, meaning that you and your visitors will remain well-connected to home.  There are also two regional airports within an hour’s drive of the Costa Ballena, making it easy and affordable to skip the 3.5 hour drive to San Jose (the closest international airport).  Nevertheless, a well-maintained highway connects the Pacific coast with the Central Valley and Costa Ballena for a scenic drive from the capital. The Costa Rican government has pledged to keep these services in good condition for the benefit of tourism and commerce.

Security

Costa Rica is a politically and economically stable nation.  There are few (and generally peaceful) anti-government rallies, political uprisings or riots, and each successive government is democratically elected by a large voter turnout and supported by the majority of the popular vote.  Costa Rica is proud to be one of the oldest democracies in the Americas, cherishing the tradition of negotiation rather than confrontation, as well as social development and tolerance over military spending and hostility.  It is a nation with one of the highest literacy and life expectancy rates, and a people whose happiness is embodied in the national epithet of ‘pura vida.’

Every day enjoyment

The impressive scenic beauty and welcoming spirit are not lost on the more than 3 million tourists who visit annually, nor the nearly 9% of Costa Rica's population that are expats.  Our Southern Zone of Costa Rica is considered to be the place where the mountains meet the sea, presenting a variety of options in terms of where to live and what to do. Temperatures in Costa Rica are tropical year-round due to the proximity of the country to the equator. Roughly half the year is considered 'dry' season (December to May) and the other half is 'rainy' season, with coastal temperatures sitting around 80-90F and getting cooler as you go up the mountains.  It is perfect weather for enjoying a wide variety of outdoor activities including heading to the beach, hiking the mountains, and visiting parks and waterfalls.

Language

Many residents of Costa Rica are bilingual. It is ideal to learn some basic Spanish but it is possible to live in Costa Rica without speaking Spanish fluently.  In our diverse expat communities in the Costa Ballena, you will inevitably bear witness to an international mix of languages and cultures, bringing their food and customs with them to share with the world from within this clean, green, welcoming platform that is our generous host called Costa Rica.

Common languages to encounter include French, German, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Czech, Italian, and of course English and Spanish.  Even if you consider yourself fairly proficient en espanol, you may find that the local dialect gives you a hard time in terms of your language comprehension. A few classes with a native speaker certainly wouldn’t hurt, and group classes will give you the opportunity to meet other people in your area who are in the same boat.

Lifestyle

In the Costa Ballena, you are bound to find your niche for engaging with the local community - both locals and expats.  Enjoy a wide variety of courses and classes to satisfy your needs for continued learning and exercising your mind, body and spirit.  Learn to paint, join a book club, make crafts out of natural materials found all around you, or join a lunch club - there are so many options for weekly and monthly events that you're going to have a hard time choosing how to spend your time!

Try yoga in a class filled with retired expats, or in a mixed environment.  Grab a boogie board and catch some waves with your friends. This is a land that inspires youthful creativity and exploration of the senses in everyone - regardless of age.  No need to push yourself; rather, embrace the moment and go with the flow. You will see 70 year olds hiking in the hot sun or surfing the waves any day of the week.  What you thought was never possible again back home, you will find new energy for, thanks to the vibrant company that surrounds you and the vitality of the land that envelops you here.

Communication

Join a social media platform like Facebook and you will easily find groups within our local community that are long established for the purpose of connecting people in this region to the goings on in our neighborhood.  See people exchange all manner of ideas, suggestions, services and things! Seek help you with queries and connect with the author of posts you like. Reach out and you will likely open a lot of doors.

Residency

You don’t need to be a resident to buy, own or sell property in Costa Rica.  Many expats who own property in Costa Rica never apply for residency, traveling back and forth between their home nation and here, visiting family and friends via cheap, direct flights.  They subsist easily on the 90 day tourist visa, which is easily renewed regularly with proof of onward travel.

For those who want their stay to be a bit more permanent, there are a few classes of residency for which retired expats can apply, the most conventional of which are called ‘pensionado’ and ‘inversionista’.  

For the pensionado class, an applicant must be already retired from his/her usual occupation and already receiving pension benefits.  The applicant will need to show proof that they have $1000 USD per person or married couple from a qualified pension plan (these can include local, state/provincial and Federal government pensions from most countries, Canadian Old Age Pension System, U.S. Social Security Administration and Railroad Retirement benefits, private company pension plans, defined benefit plans, 401K plans, school district pension, IRA/Keogh distributions, etc. To be a qualified pension plan, the pension must be payable to the resident applicant “for life.” Many lifetime annuities can also qualify as a pension). Once approved, the resident agrees to live in Costa Rica for at least one (1) day per year.

For the inversionista class, the applicant must have invested $200,000+ USD in assets into the local economy in any type of business or in real estate, with no requirement of a bank deposit.  The applicant must prove that the amount already invested (not the current or future value) has a registered or verifiable value of at least $200,000 USD. The investment can be made in any type of business, including manufacturing, transportation, hospitality (hotel, B&B, bar, restaurant, etc.), tourism industry (tours, nature walks, amusement and adventure-type parks, etc.), commercial real estate and non-commercial real estate.  A home purchase or the purchase of land for future development are both acceptable investments for the purpose of applying for residency, provided the amount invested is at least $200,000 USD.  Additionally, land purchased for preservation, including ecological, environmental or watershed preservation purposes are also included in this scheme.

Obtaining temporary residency can take anywhere from 6 months to a year.  After 3 years, temporary residents can apply for your permanent residence status.  You will need the assistance of an attorney to complete both of these processes, so ask your neighbors or your real estate agent to recommend a good one, who will help you thoroughly with this process.  There are other paths to residency in Costa Rica, however they are less common for retirees.

In Conclusion

In total, about 4% of Americans abroad find themselves in Costa Rica, which is the third most popular US expat destination after Germany (9%) and Mexico (5%).  According to the international publication Expat Insider, 32% of Costa Rica’s expats are retirees. International Living Magazine consistently ranks Costa Rica in the top ten places for expat retirement, taking into consideration a vast number of factors including: cost of housing, cost of food, climate, healthy lifestyle, quality and cost of health care, accessibility from other parts of the world, technology, benefits and discounts for retirees, and ease of assimilating into the culture.

Southern Zone Monthly Market Report for June 2018

May 11, 2023 in Real Estate in Costa Rica, Buying Process, Tips for Buyers

 A second home in a tropical country is about leisure time.  It needs to have the amenities that the buyer wants, and be an oasis where they can have peace and get away from everything.

Forbes Magazine has been recently touting Southern U.S. destinations as good investments, particularly in Texas and Florida.  But thanks to the increase in tourism to Costa Rica, largely due to a government-run campaign to advertise Costa Rica to North America, Europe and Mexico, potential U.S. investors are finding their way further down south and falling in love with the change of pace in the land of pura vida.

Why do people choose to visit the Southern Zone?

According to InternationalLiving.com's 2018 Global Retirement Index, Costa Rica has taken the top spot for the first time in the index's history, topping the categories of healthy lifestyle and healthcare while scoring well in the fitting in, governance, entertainment and amenities, and climate categories, all of which are abundantly praised by the expat communities in our region.

The Southern Zone of Costa Rica is located on the South Pacific coast and has a diverse range of climates and amenities.  Many of those who move to the Costa Ballena - where the mountains meet the sea - are looking for a quiet area with a warm but breezy climate.

Younger buyers are drawn to this region for the many different options for schools in English and Spanish. And yet another priority that brings people to this region is the ability to buy land big enough to have privacy, room to garden, and to keep animals, both domestic and for farming, on rich, fertile land.  All of this can be found for a much lower price than in other more touristically developed regions of the country, as well as other comparable tropical destinations.

More than a few new buyers to this region operate their own foreign businesses, such as IT consulting in the U.S., meaning that they are able to work from anywhere and are choosing Costa Rica to raise their families in a simpler, more natural environment.  The internet service in the Southern Zone is fast catching up to world-wide standards, and you can get 6 mbps even in rural areas.

Our region is big enough to find pretty much whatever you need but small enough that you don’t feel overwhelmed by your daily routines. Many people who move to Costa Rica say that they mostly enjoy the human element of living in this here. It's pretty much all small shops and when you go in, they really treat you like they are happy to have you there.

There's state-of-the-art healthcare at about one third the cost of the U.S. and the cost of living reflects that reduction in expenses, too. Costa Rica is laidback and slower-paced and there's none of the drama that's coming out of the United States right now.

The increase in tourism is affecting the local real estate market

US buyers are driving up property demand in Costa Rica, with an increasing number of buyers from Canada, France, Germany, and Belgium according to Rodolfo Herrera, a real estate lawyer based in San Isidro, San Jose.  “They come here to vacation, fall in love and want to buy,” he says.

Higher median prices in the U.S. markets are now driving buyer interest in higher priced and luxury real estate properties, particularly for ocean view, beachfront, and near beach properties.  Buyers from hot markets in the U.S. like California and Florida see Costa Rica as offering great value in comparison to similar beach real estate in the United States. We still have luxury condos for under $200 per square foot, pricing that is rare in the USA.

Aside from its scenic beauty and lower cost of living, many Costa Ricans, foreign investors and High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs) are increasingly attracted to this country mainly because foreigners are entitled to the same ownership rights as Costa Rican citizens, and there are low property taxes and no residency restrictions.

The principles of supply and demand dictate that when there are more options available, people can be choosier and know that even if they lose out on what seems like the perfect property, something else will likely come along that ticks off all the boxes. In our market, looking back to more than two years ago, buyers were more emotional then than they are now, and were a bit more selective.  These days, we are seeing more tourists (and potential buyers) reaching our slightly more distant destination (than others within Costa Rica) and buying up the inventory in the under $400k ocean view homes.

Guanacaste, which was once the most sought after destination in Costa Rica, has seen the biggest decline in residential property prices since 2017, with prices of both houses and condominium units in the province plunging by about 30% y-o-y in November 2017, according to the online marketplace Encuentra24.

Today, the most expensive and fastest-selling properties in Costa Rica are in the Central Valley, the greater metropolitan area where most businesses are, and in the North Pacific coast. The least expensive properties can be found in new developments in the Costa Rica’s southern region, such as the Osa Peninsula.

• In Ojochal (Southern Zone), a similar property might cost around US$265,000.
• In Tamarindo (North Pacific), 3-bedroom houses are priced at US$375,ooo.

Tourism has a huge impact on the real estate and rental market

The first half of 2018 shows a growth of 6% in tourists from this country to Costa Rica, according to the National Tourism Board (ICT).  This increase is also present in visitors from other regions such as Europe (14.2% increase on 2017) and South America with an 11.4% growth.  At the start of this year, ICT had already confirmed an additional 95 thousand plane seats, thanks to the arrival of new airlines and the increase in flight frequencies.

Costa Rica is the most visited country in Central America, capturing more than a quarter market share. Americans account for about 40% of all visitor arrivals in the country every year. It is estimated that about 100,000 American citizens live in Costa Rica and more than 1 million visit the country every year.

As a direct result of this increase in tourism, Costa Rica’s economy is expected to expand by 3.8% this year, according to the International Monetary Fund.  Gross rental yields on residential property in Costa Rica remain generally healthy, at around 5.6% to 8.6% at end-2016, based on the most recent Global Property Guide research.  These are quite good returns, even when costs such as taxes and other costs are subtracted from the gross figures.

 

Costa Rica’s Newly-Elected Government is Continuing the Effort to Ban Single-Use Plastics by 2021

May 11, 2023 in Life in Costa Rica

The first public announcement of Costa Rica ’s future plastics ban first came on World Environment Day on June 5, 2017, at a time when 8.3 billion metric tons of plastics had been manufactured to date around the world — most of which has ended up as litter.  This revolutionary goal has just been echoed by the newly-elected government, led by President Carlos Alvarado, in honor of the one year anniversary of this commitment.

Costa Rica’s proposed ban on single-use plastics comes at a time when plastic is truly choking our global waters.  Every minute on our planet, a garbage truck’s worth of plastic ends up in our oceans. Currently there is a garbage patch bigger than Texas floating in the Pacific Ocean and it even estimated that by 2050, the plastic in the ocean will outnumber the amount of fish.  Even as a so-called global environmental leader, Costa Rica currently produces 400 tonnes of solid waste every day and Ticos discard 1.5 million plastic bottles every day.  

While plastics typically constitute approximately 10% of total discarded waste, they represent a much greater proportion of the debris accumulating on shorelines.  Disposable plastic items are especially worrisome because compared to other forms of trash, they take the longest to biodegrade, for example 450 years for a single bottle and 20 years for thin shopping bag.  

[caption id="attachment_14816" align="aligncenter" width="503"] Image: Environmental Protection Authority, Victoria[/caption]

Single or disposable plastic is a man-made compound used only once and thrown away.  These plastics are used to make everyday “luxury” items like straws, coffee stirrers, plastic bags, water bottles, lids, etc.

In 2018, Costa Rica’s government started making changes towards achieving a national goal to eliminate all single-use plastics by 2021 through a multi-effort strategy that financially incentivizes private and public institutions to stop using single-use plastics.  The main objective is for at least 80 percent of the country’s public agencies, municipalities and businesses replace their disposable plastic packaging with materials that have a lower environmental impact.

The plastics ban initiative is being led by a number of interested constituents: Costa Rica’s Ministries of Health and Environment and Energy (MINAE), the United Nations Development Programme, local governments, civil society, and various private sector groups.  MINAE has announced that it has already ordered all its departments to purchase only products made from renewable, compostable and biodegradable materials.

History of the backlash against plastic

In 2002, Bangladesh became the first country in the world to ban disposable plastic shopping bags after they were found to have choked the drainage system during devastating floods.  Other countries including South Africa, Rwanda, China, Australia and Italy followed suit soon after.  Hawaii was the first U.S. state to ban the bag at checkouts and restaurants and the UK and Canada have implemented fees for plastic bags at grocery stores.

In 2015, a video of marine biologists pulling a plastic straw from the nostril of a sea turtle off the coast of Costa Rica went viral.  The shocking eight-minute video showed the male Olive Ridley turtle bleeding as the scientists struggled to extract the straw. The research team posted their footage online to raise awareness of the harm that plastics cause to marine life.  

This same year, the UN Environment Programme launched #CleanSeas, a major global campaign to stop plastic ending up in our oceans. Ten countries have already joined, including: Belgium, Costa Rica, France, Grenada, Indonesia, Norway, Panama, Saint Lucia, Sierra Leone and Uruguay.

As a global environmental leader, Costa Rica wants to be the first country to achieve a comprehensive national strategy to eliminate single-use plastics by 2021, coinciding with the nation’s goal of becoming carbon neutral - a goal set up in 2007.  

Although some plastics can be recycled, too many plastics are not. According to the Clean Air Council (CAC), only one-quarter of 1% of the more than 7 billion pounds of discarded polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is recycled each year in the U.S.

Here are some other facts from the CAC about plastics in the U.S.:

• The average American office worker uses about 500 disposable cups every year.
• During 2009ʼs International Coastal Cleanup, the Ocean Conservancy found that plastic bags were the second-most common kind of waste found, at one out of ten items removed.
• Chlorine production for PVC uses almost as much energy as the annual output of eight medium-sized nuclear power plants each year.
• After Ireland created a 15-cent charge per plastic bag in 2002, bag consumption dropped by 90%. In 2008, the average person in Ireland used 27 plastic bags, while the average person in Britain used 220. The program has raised millions of euros in revenue.
• The state of California spends about 25 million dollars sending plastic bags to landfill each year and another 8.5 million dollars to remove littered bags from streets.
• Every year, Americans use approximately 1 billion shopping bags, creating 300,000 tons of landfill waste.
• Less than 1% of plastic bags are recycled each year. Recycling one ton of plastic bags costs $4,000 USD.
• The city of San Francisco determined that it costs 17 cents for them to handle each discarded bag.

The problem of plastics in the ocean was initially thought to be aesthetic, but this thinking has morphed into other realizations. We now know that plastics cause the choking and entanglement of wildlife, and that plastics transport persistent organic pollutants, as well as non-indigenous species to new locations and the distribution of algae associated with red tides.

What will Costa Ricans do without plastics?

Many forward-thinking individuals are investing in the production of new bio-degradable and water-soluble plastics to serve the growing demand for alternatives to single-use plastics.  Products made of renewable materials such as plant starches are becoming a more available, and we’re also seeing a return to reusable, non-plastic containers.

Below are some popular examples of alternatives to single-use plastics:

• An edible water bottle is being promoted in the U.K. through a crowdfunding campaign with the hope of replacing millions of plastic bottles thrown away every year. More than £500,000 has been raised so far.
• An Indonesian entrepreneur has created a material with plastic-like qualities to be manufactured not from petroleum products but from the remains of the cassava plant.
• An eco-friendly process can create bags using 12 ingredients — potatoes, tapioca, corn, natural starch, vegetable oil, banana, and flower oil. Natural ingredients are liquefied and taken through a six-step process. Even the paints used to print on the bags are all natural and organic.
• Chitosan, an organic compound found in the shells of crustaceans like shrimp, crabs, and other shellfish products, can become a human-made polymer.
• A six-pack beer ring is made from brewing byproducts and results in a composite that marine life can eat as it melts in seawater.
• An explosion of interest in polymers is taking place so that single-use items could be made from renewable resources and biodegrade easily and harmlessly.
• Glass, which is made from sand, is a renewable resource that doesn’t contain chemicals that can leach into food or the human body. It’s easily recycled or repurposed for storing leftovers.
• Costa Rican college students have already discovered a plastic alternative made from bananas that looks to be 5 times stronger than plastic and will disintegrate in just 18 months.

Costa Rica’s larger social justice mission

In association with the United Nations Development Programme, the country’s Sustainable Development Goals outline how it is the responsibility of all sectors and people to ensure a balance between the social, economic, and environmental realms. Marginalized people must be incorporated into the process, so that challenges, such as the management of solid waste and its impacts on people, can be overcome by a broad range of constituents. The upcoming plastics ban must find a way for impoverished persons to have daily alternatives to single-use plastics, too, if the initiative is to be for the good of all. 

Local officials point out in their statement that Costa Rica’s impressive environmental record still has room for improvement.  Although the country has been an example to the world by reversing deforestation and doubling its forest cover from 26 percent in 1984 to more than 52 percent this year, today one fifth of the 4,000 tonnes of solid waste produced daily is not collected and ends up as part of the Costa Rican landscape, also polluting rivers and beaches.

According to Edgar Gutiérrez, former Minister of Environment and Energy, Costa Rica:  

“Being a country free of single use plastics is our mantra and our mission. It’s not going to be easy, and the government can’t do it alone. To promote these changes, we need all sectors—public and private—to commit to actions to replace single-use plastic through five strategic actions: municipal incentives, policies and institutional guidelines for suppliers; replacement of single-use plastic products; research and development—and investment in strategic initiatives. We also need the leadership and participation of all: women, men, boys and girls." 

Jaco is the first Costa Rican city to push a major no-plastic initiative

#SinPajillaPorFavor is a campaign that calls on restaurants and other businesses to unite to reduce single-use plastics.  The Jaco campaign is directed by the Central Pacific Chamber of Tourism and Sustainable Commerce (CATUCOSO) in order to improve the image of the Central Pacific beach and raise awareness among residents about environmental issues. More than 60 hotels, restaurant and commerce business leaders have joined the effort.

“Some of the partners are using boxes instead of plastic bags in their stores, including the Ferretería del Pacífico. In the case that plastic can’t be eliminated, various businesses are using oxo-biodegradable bags in order to give their clients a more eco-friendly option,” said Maria José Arguedas, treasurer for CATUCOSO.  

It’s time that we work together to solve a major problem that is entirely man-made because it reasons to assume that it is up to us to reverse the mess that we are creating. 

Costa Rica’s Economy: Is The Price of Paradise Worth Paying?

May 11, 2023 in Tips for Buyers, Real Estate in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has been awarded once again, this time by tourism specialist Conde Nast Traveler Spain magazine naming Costa Rica the international tourist destination of 2018.  Voted by readers and followers of the site from among 25 destinations, Costa Rica was recognized for being a destination that is rich in biodiversity and tourist attractions, in addition to its solid reputation for sustainable tourism and constant innovation.

This award is being received as a validation of strategies employed by Costa Rica’s tourism ministry’s work of successfully promoting the nation to the European market, including a growth in direct flights from a variety of European ports.

Our office has seen a share of this growth from Europeans wanting to go beyond travel and make their stay in Costa Rica more permanent.  And because Europeans tend to be adventurous travelers, many of them find themselves in our more rugged and naturally abundant region of Costa Ballena in the Southern Zone of Costa Rica.

But how much will it cost me?

There is much heated debate to be found online about the cost of living in Costa Rica, since this is widely known to be one of the most expensive nations to live in Latin America.  But when you consider what it is you are paying a slightly higher price for: a peaceful and stable political system, far lower rates of poverty and crime, successive progressive governments working towards aspirational environmental goals, and excellent universal medical care.

Most people know that medical and dental services are less expensive in private clinics in Costa Rica than in most first world countries, with leading technologies and specialists available all over this developing nation.  Real estate is also less expensive than most other comparable locations in North America or Europe, and Costa Rican property investors enjoy very low property taxes (0.25% of your property's valuation annually) and no capital gains taxes.

On the other hand, commodities such as clothes, cars and electronics face a considerable markup and red-light specials on isle 4 are not a common occurrence in Costa Rica.  This means that pre-packaged foods - less purchased by local consumers - tend to be much more expensive than in America, where you can buy 3-4 bags of Doritos on special for the same price as one bag in Costa Rica.  Your own, personal lifestyle will have the biggest influence in how much you spend on a monthly basis, which can range from $1000 on the lower end to $3000 on the higher end for all expenses, including rent.

Luckily, for those who can’t really live without, Amazon recently announced that it will allow clients in Costa Rica to receive their packages directly, rather than first receiving them at a U.S. shipping address and forwarding them to Costa Rica.  Products are also available for purchase through Amazon using the Costa Rican currency, the colon.  Various other shipping services exist, including DHL, FedEx and various small, local providers, and the speed and efficiency of Costa Rica's postal service is growing every year.

Price comparisons

According to the online aggregate database Numeo, the cost of living in Costa Rica is 23.08% less than in the United States on average, not including rent, which is $55.24 lower on average than in the United States.  Using the example of the most expensive city in the US, you would need about $7500 USD to live the same lifestyle that you can for $1000 USD in San Jose, assuming you rent in both cities.

Since 2010, Costa Rica has enjoyed strong and stable economic growth, seeing a 4.3% rise in 2016 alone.  It has also attracted one of the highest levels of foreign direct investment per capita in Latin America.  According to Forbes magazine, foreign investors remain attracted by the country’s political stability and relatively high education levels, and incentives offered in the free-trade zones.  And so, even while goods are generally more expensive in Costa Rica, there are many places around the country in which appliances, imported foods, and alcohol (among other things) can be purchased duty-free, thanks to government incentives.

The Costa Rican economy

Still relying heavily on the export of bananas, coffee, sugar and beef, the Costa Rican economy is moving past commodities and adding the export of high value-added goods like medical devices.  And more impressively, the government-mandated push towards ecological protection and sustainable practices have made Costa Rica a key destination for ecotourism from around the world.

The Great Place to Work Institute of Central America and the Caribbean has found that 40 of the 154 best businesses to work in their region of analysis are in Costa Rica.  Two Costa Rican businesses have also been recognized in TripAdvisor’s second annual Traveler’s Choice awards for Rentals in the luxury category.

According to a recent TripAdvisor survey of their customers, 64% of Americans traveling in 2018 plan to stay in a vacation rental.  Savvy investors into Costa Rica are already looking at how to make their local property investments work for them while they are away, renting them through popular sites like VRBO and AirBnB.  Owning a vacation rental on your Costa Rica property is another great way of funding your stay, too, since it is legal to own a business as a foreigner in Costa Rica, with the same rights as nationals.

Use the contact us form below to get in touch with an agent from our team.  We will help you answer all of your questions about investing in Costa Rica and if it is a viable plan for you economically.  Our agents have expert knowledge, having helped hundreds of successful buyers who have remained friends and clients over the years.  Our goal is to help you succeed in this great country, and not to make a quick dollar by tricking people into buying. It’s easy to fall in love with Costa Rica’s beauty and ethics, but it’s important that it’s right for you - for the good of our community, too.

Medical Tourism in Costa Rica: A New Reason to Holiday

May 11, 2023 in Tips for Buyers, Discover Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s economy has long benefitted from the medical tourism industry and this number has grown in recent years, thanks largely to the high quality service and the relatively low costs of procedures.

Studies conducted by the Costa Rican Health Chamber (Promed) show that nearly 45% of medical tourism in the country is for seeking quality dental care.  I was personally impressed with the speed and quality of the service that I received, from getting an appointment straight away to after care messages asking how my recovery is going.

There are a number of reasons that people from all over the world are visiting Costa Rica for medical tourism in general, and dental tourism especially.  In my experience, the main reason that I would choose to recommend is because of the significantly cheaper cost of medical procedures in Costa Rica.

I recently had to have emergency dental surgery here in Costa Rica.  Aside from the unbearable pain in my mouth, I knew that I wouldn’t have to worry about unbearable pain in my wallet.  Removing two impacted teeth in New Zealand cost me nearly $1500 USD, and here it cost me 1/4 of that.  In the US, the same procedure would have cost me double the price that I paid here. 

The dental office that I chose in Uvita offers a variety of dental vacation packages, clearly indicating that this is a popular option for not only part-time expats saving their dental and/or medical visits for their time in Costa Rica, but also tourists from around the world choosing to maximize their vacation time by getting a procedure done in a beautiful holiday spot.

For those who pay into the Costa Rican Caja health care system, they would have the opportunity to have my same procedure for free through making an appointment with a local Ebais service provider.  Expats who obtain their Costa Rican residency are automatically opted in to the system, which generally costs less than $100 a month to expats with a standard pension, and covers any and all medical procedures.  There are no restrictions for preexisting conditions in the system.

Medical tourism is growing

Statistics show that the majority of medical tourists into Costa Rica are over 45 years of age, predominantly arriving from North America.  Costa Rica is a short flight away and filled with numerous attractions, and people are choosing to save on their procedures while also enjoying a tropical getaway.

According to the Central Bank, medical tourism in Costa Rica has grown 33% in the last five years, ranking it amongst other top medical tourism destinations like Mexico, Colombia, Thailand and Malaysia.

Foreigners are learning that they are able to find excellent medical professionals in the private clinics that speak English (and/or perhaps German or another language) and they have studied both in Costa Rica and abroad.  Private dental and medical clinics all over Costa Rica are filled with highly-qualified professionals that specialize in different fields and stay current with the latest technologies and techniques.  Couple this with the fact that treatments in Costa Rica can be as much as 75% cheaper than many first world nations, and it’s easy to understand this significant growth.