Many travel to Hawaii for family vacations, weddings or honeymoons.  It offers the conveniences of North America wrapped up in a beautiful package.  Costa Rica is an exotic version of Hawaii.  It is only a 3 or 4 hour flight from Texas or Miami, making it a reasonable option for that yearly escape from the cold, or for that retirement dream home.  While it is not an island, it is a foreign country, giving off a sense of excitement for those who want to venture outside their comfort zone.

The list of activities is endless, surfing, zip-ling, horseback riding, canyoning, ATV tours, bird watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking and so on.  The diverse wildlife is breath taking, and no doubt, seeing monkeys Tarzan from tree to tree will bring a smile to your face every time.  The flora is colorful, think birds of paradise and orchids, and fragrant, imagine ginger and lavender.  The landscape encompasses volcanoes and cloud forests to miles of sandy beaches and rivers, all topped off with radiant sunsets.  Then there are the beaches, which can be best described with one word, uncrowded.  Numerous beaches dot the two coastlines of Costa Rica, these are what truly make up the “rich coast”.

Maybe you have thought, ‘wow Hawaii would be a nice place to retire full time’.  Have you considered Costa Rica? If you are looking for simple living away from the hustle and bustle, with comfortable mountain climates within a 10 minute drive to the beach, Costa Rica can give you that.

The language barrier may seem intimidating, but rest assured, you can get by without speaking a word of Spanish.  It is amazing how far hand gestures will get you.  Although, your experience and relationships are only enriched if you even just put forth the effort to speak the language.

For those who are looking for organic, eco friendly living, more and more eco conscience individuals are relocating here and thus contributing to the “one with nature” movement.  While those who have been here for years, whether native or foreigner, are proud to fight in order to maintain the essence of Costa Rica.  While inflation as affected Costa Rica, a budget conscious life can be lived.   Then again, if you can afford to visit Hawaii, you can afford to visit Costa Rica.  And when people have relocated from Hawaii for the surfing and lifestyle of Costa Rica; that in itself says something!

If you are unfamiliar with all that Costa Rica has to offer, or have just started considering it as your next vacation or retirement move, take the dive and fly on down!  How can you go wrong with lounging on the beach, fresh smoothie in hand, listening to the calm ocean waves?

Most parents have traveled with kids and know their own kids best. What you might not know is the country you plan on visiting with your kids.  Planning a Costa Rica Family Vacation  needs to take into account all the basic necessities kids need to make a vacation kid-friendly along with a few other ideas you might not be thinking of.

This small country in Central America has become one of the prime spots for families to visit during their vacation. What Costa Rica offers is an environment of extremely friendly people along with kid-friendly activities that allow everyone to enjoy some adventure and be surrounded by nature. We could go on for hours about the importance of getting your kids out into nature but we just want to emphasize here how kid-friendly Costa Rica has become.

Take for example the canyoneering adventure that allows you to rappel down different waterfalls in the middle of the rainforest. This was an adventure strictly for the extreme adventure crowd while now their is a canyoneering company in the Arenal area that can take kids of all ages allowing your 5 year old to take part in an adventure that will put him among the top adventure 5 year olds on the planet!

Also you can not think of Costa Rica without the famous zipline. Here you will find many different ziplines and plenty are kid-friendly. Not all ziplines are kid-friendly but if you know the right ones then you can guarantee a family outing for the entire family from ages 4 – 90!

Some other adventures that Costa Rica’s tourism industry has geared towards kids have been the surf lessons and whitewater rafting. Costa Rica is known on a worldly level for the waves you can find on the over 800 miles of coastline. There are a number of places where your young ones can learn to surf small waves and almost always stand up on their first or second try. Along with surfing is the whitewater rafting. In a country that is made of mountains and rain the rafting is some of the finest on Earth. There is a river for everyone. Be it the crazy uncle who has not given up kayaking on class VI rapids or the little 5 year old nephew who is looking to get wet but stay in the boat. Costa Rica whitewater rafting can cater to rafters of all levels and sizes.

Half of my family is from Canada, eh. My mother grew up in Newfoundland until the age of 13 when my grandfather found work in California. The extended family that stayed behind, some later moving to Ottawa, would frequently visit us in the San Francisco Bay Area, especially during the cold, winter months.

A few years ago, when I moved down to Costa Rica full time, I realized there are a lot of Canadians visiting (102,471 in 2009*) and living the area. One of the main reason Canadians (virtually all nationalities for that matter) visit, buy land, and in some cases, relocate to Costa Rica is the weather. As one client put it, “Shoveling snow sucks.” I have only experienced it a couple of times in Lake Tahoe, California, and I’d have to agree.

Shorts, No Shoes

The Costa Ballena (Whale Coast) is the tropics. Those living near the beach are rarely (if ever) cold here, and most people walk around in shorts 365 days out of the year. For those who “melt in the heat”, the Costa Ballena’s unique geography offers many cooler locations up in the mountains, most offering spectacular views, waterfalls, and close proximity to the beaches and/or San Isidro, one of the fastest growing cities in Central America. It rains 6 months out of the year, but even in September most mornings begin with blue skies and sunshine.

Active Adult Communities

The landscape and its wildlife are spectacular. In fact, I’ve seen it written that the Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula is “home to more plant & animal species than all of North America combined.” Add in the many outdoor activities available in the area— world class sport fishing, whale watching, bird watching, hiking, golf, tennis, and surfing to name a few — and retirement in Costa Rica is actually when many expat residents really start living.

Another reason Canadians love Costa Rica is the cultural adventure. It starts with the Costa Ricans, also known as Ticos. On the whole, the polite locals are family and community-focused, and even the toughest-looking hombre will break into a smile if you smile. Yes, there are a few cultural nuances to adapt to—“yes” doesn’t always mean “yes”, “tico time” means being late, strange driving habits— but ultimately these are all opportunities to take a deep breath and grow a little. The Costa Ballena has a safe, laid back feel to it, add a hammock and a good book into the mix, and it is relaxation-defined.

A “Lot” For A Little

Foreign investors continue to visit and invest in the Costa Ballena. Add in the fact that annual property tax in Costa Rica is .25% and there is no Capital Gains Tax, and the investment picture is even more appealing. Canadian citizens who claim non-resident status and have residency in Costa Rica are not double taxed by the Canadian government on their Costa Rica income. If you’ve always wanted to make Costa Rica your home, please consult your tax attorney for more details. But, in summary, to be a non-resident Canadian you must—

1. live in Canada for less than 183 days in the tax year

2. not have any residential ties (e.g. cars, houses, a spouse or dependents) in Canada.

We see a lot of people visiting, buying and relocating to The Costa Ballena. There is so much room for growth here; success only requires imagination, a little research, and a few good connections.

Our office is made up of foreigners who have now made the Costa Ballena their permanent home. The communities each have a varying group of expatriates, for instance the town of Ojochal has become known for its community of French Canadians, mainly because of the popular fine dining restaurants run by such individuals.

Beautiful weather, abundant wildlife, friendly people, and good investment opportunities… no wonder so many Canadians are buying real estate in the Southern Pacific Zone of Costa Rica!

*Written by Rod Martin, Agent of PropertiesinDominical.com

Costa Rica is one of the most desirable places in the World to retire for its beautiful natural scenery, tranquil “Pura Vida” lifestyle, friendly locals, year round temperate climate, and many more reasons depending on the individual. Below you will find the Top 10 Reasons that most people retire here. The majority of retires are from the U.S., Canada, and Europe making Costa Rica a unique country of many cultures living peacefully together in paradise and truly enjoying life.

Peace and Stability – Costa Rica is commonly known as the Switzerland of Latin America due to its neutral political stance, peaceful democracy, and dramatic mountainous landscapes. There has been some form of democracy in Costa Rica for well over 100 years and the country abolished its military long ago in 1949. The United States is their closest ally and many expats already live in Costa Rica. Former President Oscar Arias was once awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987.

Cost of Living – Life in Costa Rica is very affordable and one of the lowest in the Americas. For $1,200 per month a retired couple can live very well and for around $2,000 per month can live affluently. Utilities are up to 30% cheaper in Costa Rica than the US and Europe and a full time gardener and house keeper can be obtained for a few hundred dollars per month each. Numerous inexpensive local restaurants with fresh local fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood ingredients make eating out enjoyable.

Lifestyle – The ‘Pura Vida’ or the ‘Pure life’ is the local expression for everything from a greeting to a state of mind. The pace of life here is laid back and punctuality is merely a suggestion, which is the whole idea of retirement. There is also plenty to do for those searching a healthy active lifestyle such as: surfing, hiking, white water rafting, bird watching, sport fishing, biking, zip line tours, horseback riding, walking secluded beaches, and much more. Explore or relax as much as one desires. According to the New Economics Forum Costa Rica is the happiest country in the World, ranking 1st on the Happy Planet Index since 2009, up from 3rd in 2006. It also consistently ranks among the top Latin American countries on the Human Development Index.

Affordable Health Care – The cost of health care in Costa Rica is a fraction of that in the US or Europe. Many even come here for medical tourism to enjoy the benefits of World class medicine and a top travel destination. Public health care is readily available and private hospitals such as: CIMA Hospital, Clinica Biblia, and Hospital Catolica are filled with specialist doctors that have studied abroad.

Climate – The year round warm weather is another of the desirable reasons to call Costa Rica home. The central valley has moderate temperatures and enjoys weather in the70’s most of the year. The coastal climates are warmer with plenty of sunshine for days at the beach. There are only two seasons here; dry season typically November through April and rainy season typically May through October. Even in the rainy season there are mostly sunny mornings with afternoon or evening rains. September and October are usually the rainiest months of the year.

Natural Beauty – Costa Rica is unsurpassed as one of the most naturally beautiful countries in the World with mountains, rainforests, volcanoes, pristine beaches, rivers, and two coastlines bordered by the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Costa Rica, despite accounting for only 0.25% of the World’s land mass, it is home to 5% of the World’s biodiversity. National Geographic has called the Corcavado National Park on the Osa Peninsula in the Soutern Pacific Zone one of the most bio diverse places on the entire planet.

Sustainability – Costa Rica is very ‘green’ or eco minded with the majority of utility power coming from hydro-electric sources, protecting rain forests and wild life, and promoting eco-tourism. The government even has plans to become the World’s first carbon neutral country by 2021. Costa Rica ranked 3rd in the World, and 1st in the Americas on the 2010 Environmental Performance Index. An astounding 25% of its total landmass is protected by reserves and national parks, more than any other country by percentage.

Taxes – Low tax rates are another popular reason for people to retire in Costa Rica. There is no income tax paid on income earned outside of the country and no capital gains tax. Property taxes here are extremely low at only 0.25% of the recorded property value.

Business Opportunity – There are numerous investment opportunities in Costa Rica with historically rising real estate values, ever increasing international trade, and a large tourism sector. It is the number one Latin American tourist destination, which is more than a $2 billion per year industry. Retirees can start a small business such as; bed and breakfast, hotel, restaurant, fishing charter, tour operator, spa, and more providing themselves with income and additional jobs for the local work force. Costa Rica also has a highly educated population with over a 94% literacy rate.

Comfort Factor – Costa Rica has more Americans living here per capita than any other country outside the United States. The locals are friendly to expatriates and there is less feeling of isolation with other retirees nearby. Only a 3 hour flight from Florida and the US; its close location makes visiting the States easy and accessible. Other comforts include majority English channels on SkyTV, internet access even in rural areas through satellites or 3G cell phone networks, and the same or comparable stores and services in the larger cities and towns.

It is evident that the reasons for retiring in Costa Rica go beyond the natural beauty and friendly locals. If you are considering retirement in a foreign land, the reasons for considering Costa Rica are best experienced in person and it truly is a choice you do not want to overlook.

Written by Joshua Kanter, Agent with Properties in Dominical.

Costa Rica is a safe place to live, with peaceful laid back locals and a ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle. It is also safe to invest in Costa Rica with the majority of property having fee simple title that foreigners can own outright. There are properties directly on the beach that are “concession” and are technically leased from the government, and proceed with caution in those cases; better yet, search for another titled property slightly off the beach or elevated location overlooking over the ocean. All real estate transactions are done through a local attorney and the proper due diligence is performed in order to make sure the property in question is free of any leans, taxes, or other legal issues. Stewart Title and Chicago Title are also operating in Costa Rica and offer title insurance for added peace of mind over you investment.

This country is also one of the most desirable places to retire in the entire World. The ‘Baby boomers’ are now just beginning to retire and for years to come many will be looking for tropical destinations to live full or part time. Costa Rica real estate values will benefit from this trend and offer exactly what most retirees moving abroad look for:

-Temperate year round warm climates

-Mountain property with amazing views of the ocean, coastline, or valleys

-Close proximity to beaches, restaurants, and amenities

-Plenty of activities or hobbies to enjoy

-Affordable medical treatment and health care

-Accepting, helpful, and hard working local population

-Low cost of living and high quality of life

Many people are looking for investments outside of their home country for diversification. Diversify your portfolio with property or second home in Costa Rica as an alternative to stocks, bonds, and mutual fund investments. A property that increases in value as a long term investment can often beat stock market returns. Owning and operating a business in Costa Rica can be done on a 90 day tourist visa, you do not need to be a resident, this has made it easy for many to invest in bed and breakfasts or hotels, restaurants or tourism. Others have invested in a home with the goal of operating it as a vacation rental, with tourism on a steady incline, vacation rentals are consistently in demand. There are various options to generate an income off your foreign investment.

Costa Rica is also a forward thinking country with over 25% of its landmass in wildlife refuges and nature reserves and even has goals to be the World’s first carbon neutral country by 2025. This natural beauty attracts millions of tourists per year and as eco-tourism becomes more popular Costa Rica will be poised to continue growing its tourism sector; which is already its number one source of GDP. It is consistently #1 or #2 in most visited Latin American countries year to year. The more people that travel to Costa Rica and experience its scenery, culture, and pace of life, the more people that will want to own a piece of this unique paradise in the future.

Costa Rica is a true alternative to traditional investments and well positioned to continue as a leader in places to retire and travel; thus increasing real estate values across the country. Pending another Worldwide economic meltdown this tropical destination will remain one of the best foreign investments money can buy. If there is a complete global financial collapse, the self sustainability of many properties in Costa Rica will allow you to grow your own organic fruits and veggies, raise chickens, and live off the land. Regardless of what the future holds, now is the time to investigate Costa Rica for your next investment.

However, even though Costa Rica is Hurricane-free Zone, it still feels the effects of heavy rainfall from time to time.

During the hurricane season, June 1st – Nov. 30th, Costa Rica will occasionally feel the effects of these major hydro-meteorological events. Tropical storms are more common than hurricanes in Costa Rica, and it is important to note that heavy rain isn’t the same as heavy rain AND 100+ mph winds!

According to this NASA webpage, “Tropical cyclones are like giant engines that use warm, moist air as fuel. That is why they form only over warm ocean waters near the equator.” The small towns in our area (e.g., Dominical, Uvita and Ojochal) are located at approximately nine degrees north of the equator. The benefit of being at this latitude, and on the Pacific side of Costa Rica, is the wind is significantly lighter than along the Caribbean storm corridor where hurricane winds can rip off your roof. I suppose that’s why the famous Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan called the Pacific Ocean, Tepre Pacificum or “Peaceful Sea”.

What Does This Mean For Pacific Zone Residents and Investors?

Light winds aside, we do experience heavy rain and flooding from time to time in Costa Rica. In some cases, the spiraling arms of a hurricane can reach over 300 miles from the eye of the storm. When there’s a storm over Nicaragua, we feel the effects of it. We know a few clients and residents who have lost portions of their property to landslides and flooding. The question is are there precautions property owners can take to ensure their piece of Costa Rica real estate doesn’t flood or slide down the hill? The answer is most likely, and here’s a brief summary–

EROSION- Lots should not have large cuts (red dirt) exposed above the building site. During my first year here, I rented a house with a hill eroding behind it. Needless to say, landslides are not fun and VERY dangerous.

RAINWATER MANAGEMENT- Check out the rainwater management on and around the property. Make sure the water is being channeled properly, specifically away from the building area. This may require the installation of canals and culverts in some cases.

SOIL TEST- Get a soil test before purchasing property on a steep hill or with creeks or rivers running through the property. It usually costs the buyer $200-$300, but it could save you thousands.

RETAINING WALLS- Add gaviones (aka- secured rock baskets) or a retaining wall to exposed hillsides to hold the land before the rainy season. Another very common preventative measure is securing green mesh or netting (known as, cerran in Costa Rica) to hillside and planting deep rooting plants in regular intervals across the face of it.

As one couple in the Uvita area found out, there are specific things you DO NOT want to do when constructing your dream home. They purchased an ocean view property that wasn’t quite large enough to fit the building footprint, so they hired a backhoe and cut into an already steep hillside directly behind their home. Construction was nearing completion, and then the heavy rains came. The water saturated the hillside, and BAM, the landslide brought 3 feet of mud through the house, an event both heart-breaking and expensive. It is my understanding that poor water management above the property also played a role in the event.

In summary, be careful. If buying of a second home in the Caribbean is on your radar, keep the above Hurricane History Map in mind. If you have already been to Costa Rica and love the ‘pura vida’ lifestyle and investment opportunities, choose your property wisely. Selecting a property based solely on price can be a mistake that ends up costing you a lot more in the end.

What is the procedure to buy a Costa Rica property?

First: After you have found the right property with your Real Estate agent, have them submit an Offer to the Seller or the Seller’s listing agent in order to agree upon the sales price and terms of the deal. Second: Take this Offer to your Costa Rica attorney for them to write up the formal Sale Purchase Agreement or Offer to Purchase Agreement. This document is legally binding, registered, clearly states all conditions necessary for the conveyance of the deed, sets a time frame for Due Diligence, and a date for closing; thus officially taking the property off the market. It is also typical for the Buyer to send a deposit at the time of mutual signing of this agreement. Third: The period of Due Diligence, which is the complete legal research of the property to insure there are no liens, contingencies, legal issues, and that it has absolute fee simple title. If the property is being sold with an existing company, then the research of the company for any legal contingencies will also be completed during Due Diligence. Fourth: Closing or conveyance of the deed occurs before a Notary Public, who will register the property under the new company or owner. Alternatively, if the property is being purchased with an existing company, then the shares of the company are transferred at this time by a Shares Transfer Agreement. In this case the Notary Public will make the corresponding changes to the company’s ownership in the National Registry. Fifth: Declaring the property before the corresponding Municipality for property tax purposes by filling out a simple form and presenting it along with the some other documents either yourself or through your attorney.

Can I acquire a property under my personal name, even being a foreigner?

Yes, however, it is more common and recommended to acquire the property through a corporation in order to separate potential personal liabilities, facilitate the closing procedure, and allow for easier transfer to relatives in case of casualty. The Costa Rica holding company will also make it easier to obtain services such as electricity and cell phones, as well as, opening a bank account.

Exception: A foreigner can only own up to 49% of the concession rights for a Concession Property within the Maritime Terrestrial Zone (MTZ).

If I live outside of Costa Rice, do I need to be present to sign for the conveyance of the deed at closing?

This is not specifically necessary and can be executed through a Power of Attorney for a third party that you trust. This Power of Attorney can be very specific to solely the purchase and signing the closing document of the property in question. Another option that is costly and timely is DHL or FedEx the documents and signing them in front of a licensed Notary Public at your nearest Costa Rica Consulate. Considering the cost of the shipping and if the nearest Costa Rica Consulate is in another part of the country; then it can be more affordable to fly down and sign for yourself.

What are the taxes, legal fees, and closing expenses included in the purchase of property in Costa Rica?

Every property acquisition in Costa Rica has to pay the following National Registry Fees: Registry: 5 colones per every 1,000 colones of purchase price; Municipal: 2 colones per every 1,000 colones of purchase price; Fiscal: a maximum of 625 colones; Bar Association: a maximum of 10,000 colones; Archive: 20 colones. The Transfer Tax of 1.5% must be paid to the National Registry if the property is transferred from one owner to another. If a property is sold with an existing company and only the shares of the company are transferred, then this Transfer Tax does not apply. These costs are often split by the Buyer and the Seller.

Legal Fees for the purchase of property in Costa Rica are 1% to 2% depending on the sales price, complexity of the transaction, and the allotted time spent by the attorney on the deal. Additional legal costs may include the formation of a Costa Rica holding company of around $500 to $600 USD; drafting of any supplementary contracts or Seller Financing Agreements and registering of such contracts; and translation of contracts into your native language. The Buyer and Seller typically pat for the separate attorneys. If one attorney is used by both Buyer and Seller, then some for these legal fees can be split. However, the Buyer is usually solely responsible for starting a new company, any contracts for Seller Financing (if needed) and registration of those contracts, and translations if the Seller is Spanish speaking.

Other Fees may include topographer fees if you choose to re-mark the boundaries of the property; and any extra investigation you may choose to execute such as; soil tests. These items are typically paid by the Buyer.

A total property transaction costs about 4% of the property value and this can vary more depending on the amount of Due Diligence needed and less if the property is being sold with a current company.

How can I transfer funds for a property acquisition from my home country?

This can be accomplished by international wire transfer and the funds can be received by a recognized escrow company dedicated to protect funds and provide escrow services in Costa Rica. Direct wire transfer from the Buyer to the Seller can be done in certain cases, but should be done almost simultaneously as closing signatures; as many Sellers may not feel comfortable signing the closing documents until receiving a bank confirmation that the wire transfer has been completed.

Where and how are properties registered in Costa Rica?

All titled properties are registered in the “Registro Naccional” or National Registry located in Zapote, San Jose, Costa Rica. There are satellite offices of the “Registro” around the country in larger cities. This is a public record that anyone can research the owner of a property and any leans, loans, transformations, or damages against the said property. In order to transfer a registered property the recorded owner must appear before a Notary Public in order to grant a public conveyance of the property, which then must be presented and recorded in the National Registry. All registered properties have a folio real number (i.e. 6-123456-000) of which the first number represents the province where it is located, the second refers to the specific folio property number, and the third to the property rights as in number of owners (000 means only one owner).

Exceptions: (1) Concession property located in the Maritime Terrestrial Zone (MTZ); which is the 200 meters from the median high tide mark on both Pacific and Caribbean coasts. The first 50 meters is public zone and free for the public to enjoy, where as the remaining 150 meters is the restricted zone where concession property can be granted by the local municipality. Although there can be titled property with the MTZ, it is very rare and may have been titled since before the MTZ was put in place; but should be carefully investigated by your Costa Rica attorney to insure the validity and legality of the title. Concession property is registered in different section of the National Registry called the Concession Registry and has an independent registration number. Concession property is typically used for tourism and if this type of property is a consideration, then it is highly recommended your attorney review the concession and feasibility of your plans for the property before pursuing it further. (2) There are also Possession Properties, which are untitled and are not registered in the National Registry. These properties can obtain title through a lengthy process and if they comply with certain requirements; one of which is a minimum possession of 10 years. These types of properties are the most risky and professional legal counsel is needed in this situation to advise if receiving title is possible before even considering such a property.

How can I check the status of a property in Costa Rica?

Go to the following website of the National Registry: http://www.rnpdigital.com/index.htm where anyone can check the status of a property. Go to “Sistema de Certificaciones y Consultas Gratuitas” on the top left side of the webpage. A new tab will open and then first time users will have to go to “Registrarse por Primera Vez” in the top left hand portion of the page. After filling out the form you will receive an email and click on the link and enter your user email and password on the left hand side under “Ingreso para Usuarios Registrados”. Then go to “Consultas Gratuitas” on the left hand side and next you will see a list of all the types of “Consultas” you can do for “Bienes Immuebles” (Real Estate). To obtain a certified property report click on “Consulta por Numera de Finca”. After this, you will have to enter the number of the property’s province or “Provincia” (first number of the Folio Real number on the Plano), the folio real number of the property (middle numbers of the Folio Real number on the plano), and the number of the property right “dereccho” (which is the last 3 digits of the Folio Real number on the Plano). Once you enter the said information click on the “Consultar” (consult) button. A certificate with all the information of the property will appear on the screen.

How much are property taxes and other taxes associated with owning property in Costa Rica?

Property Taxes are 0.25% of the registered property value and are paid to the local Municipality for where the property is located. These taxes are paid every 3 months or can be paid in full for the year in advance. For example a $100,000 USD property pays $250 USD per year in Property Tax.

Corporation Tax is a fairly new tax passed in 2012 and is a fixed fee of $180 USD for inactive corporations and $360 USD for active corporations. Most properties are held be an inactive corporation and this tax is paid to the “Ministerio de Hacienda”.

Luxury Tax is tax levied against luxury homes valued over approximately $200,000 USD and is also paid to the “Ministerio de Hacienda”. This tax is around $2,500 and can be more depending on the registered value of the home.

Please feel free to contact us for any additional questions you may have about purchasing property in Costa Rica. We have created a valuable network of contacts over our many years of experience in Costa Rica Real Estate such as; lawyers, architects, builders, topographers, accounts, property managers, and more;

Costa Rica means “Rich Coast” and no doubt, those who have had the opportunity to travel here would agree it has left the pages of their lives filled with enriching experiences. With two very different coasts along the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean, divided by the Central Valley and mountain ranges, the landscape is undeniably diverse. For those who have been searching for a somewhat untouched area, where they can still find all the living essentials, the Southern Pacific Zone is just that.

This region is known as Bahia Ballena or the Costa Ballena, which means “Whale Coast”, and has steadily grown to become the hottest destination in Costa Rica. It is distinguished by rainforest clothed mountains, which dramatically rise from the Pacific, the glowing red and orange sunset ocean views, and the flourishing wildlife. Stretching a 65 mile span from Quepos/Manuel Antonio to Palmar Norte this area defines diversity. The series of towns located within this coastal span are each filled with their own unique character and have their own compelling reasons to visit.

• Dominical: Set along the beach, this laidback town marks the beginning of the mountains-to-the-sea topography. Known for having the most consistent surf break in Costa Rica it is a surfer’s mecca, hosting competitions throughout the year. The easy-going atmosphere is infectious to all who visit and it is home to popular restaurants, artisan shops and a lively nightlife. Nearby nature reserves, waterfalls and river activities are additional draws to the town. If you are looking to be walking distance to the beach, Dominical is the top choice.

• Uvita: This seaside town is known for the Whale’s Tail sand bar and rock formation within the Marino Ballena National Marine Park. The park sees the yearly migration of humpback whales and is home to the annual Whales and Dolphins Festival. Uvita is the commercial and social center for this coastal stretch, with services such as banks, medical, dental, legal, grocery and restaurants. The weekly farmers market is a local enjoyment for both tourists and expats. The hidden beauty of Uvita includes pristine beaches, refreshing waterfalls, dynamic diving and snorkeling, adventure tours and horseback riding, all with a stunning rainforest backdrop.

• Ojochal: This sleepy town is best known for its world class restaurants, offering International cuisines such as French, South Asian, Italian, German and Mediterranean. Offering basic necessities, this small community has become the top choice for quiet living. The nearby Tortuga Reserve focuses on the conservation of sea turtles which nest along the beaches of Playa Tortuga. Within this tropical setting you will find stunning sunset views, unique waterfalls and wildlife not commonly seen elsewhere.

The pristine jungle framed beaches which dot the Southern Pacific are the highlight of the area. From the secluded coves of Dominicalito and the mile long stretch of Playa Hermosa, to the undiscovered Playa Arco and the low tide caves of Playa Ventanas, the picturesque surroundings appear to have been frozen in time, untouched by civilization. The Costa Ballena is also a corridor for wildlife. Nature reserves and conservation will continue to assist the wildlife population to thrive and allow for regular enjoyment of the areas native species.

Thanks to the newly completed Costanera highway, what was once a bumpy, five hour marathon from San Jose is now a smooth and enjoyable trip. The proposed International Airport in the Palmar/Sierpe area, approximately 40 minutes south of Uvita, will allow more options for travel to the area.

It is undeniable that the natural beauty that is the Costa Ballena is enriching to the mind and soul. The amenities offered, the expat community, the friendly local people and the slow pace of life, make it an enjoyable place to visit and live. Now is the time to lose yourself in the pages of the Costa Ballena.

Pavones is a little outpost of a town located on the far Southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. A place not on the way to somewhere else, but a final destination where you will find what others are searching for. It is about as far away from San Jose and the tourist destinations of the Northern Pacific beach towns as you can go. Not only is it far away in distance, but also in the pace, the abundant nature, the friendly people and the sense of freedom that comes from being far removed from the stresses and strains of the modern world. Famous for it’s world class left hand surf break, which is one of the longest waves on the planet, Pavones attracts an eclectic group of young people from around the globe dreaming of riding that perfect wave and hopefully of getting a photo of it to share with their friends before going back to their jobs, families or college.

In addition to the amazing surf, Pavones offers an abundance of outdoor activities for those inclined to venture out and explore. With miles upon miles of pristine coastline with volcanic sand beaches and ancient lava outcrops dotting the shores, one will feel as if they have been transported to another world where only they and the occasional sea bird exist. A true sense of tranquility and peace prevails and usually after being here only a couple of days most people realize that they have achieved a state of relaxation that they have not felt in years.

Pavones is growing, albeit slowly. With the arrival of regular telephone service about 4 years ago, and now with high speed internet, we are connected to the world like never before. With the technology, Pavones has become more visible and is attracting more visitors and folks looking for a peaceful place to have a vacation or retirement home. Locally you will find many different kinds of dining cuisines to choose from. We have several Italian restaurants, Vegetarian restaurants, Seafood Restaurants, Typical Costa Rican Cuisine, American Style Restaurants, Mediterranean and more. With several grocery stores, hardware stores, a bakery, fresh fish market, regular visits by fruit and vegetable vendors and being only an hour drive from the international shopping district at the Panama border, you can find what you are looking for with ease.

On a daily basis, the hardest thing to decide is whether you want to go for a stroll along the beach, swim in the crystal clear waters of the Rio Claro, hike into the mountains to see the wildlife, ride a horse along a deserted shore, swim in the ocean, take a kayak adventure, hang out in the pueblo and socialize with the locals and tourists, or just stay home and swing in a hammock as you watch the grass growing under the tropical sun.

It is always said that the road less traveled by is the one where the most adventure lies and that is true about Pavones. The path to Pavones is a little longer and a little bumpier, and when folks arrive they are always happy to be here, but once the time comes to pack up your bags and say goodbye to the new friends you have made and the Pure Lifestyle that you have re-discovered, for some reason the road going out seems a little bit longer than it did coming in.

Bobby Nielsen

Coming in at #5, Costa Rica was lauded in the article as being politically stable, conveniently close to the US, and as having high-quality, affordable health care.  The article cites expats who are enrolled in Costa Rica’s “Caja” or universal healthcare system, who give high marks to local doctors and medical facilities.

And of course Costa Rica’s famously large and welcoming expat community also got International Living’s stamp of approval.  Many expats here list the sense of community, and the huge number of groups and activities geared towards foreigners, as motivation for choosing Costa Rica for retirement.  There are groups for bird-watching, politics, wine-tasting, newcomers, animal welfare enthusiasts, community service, expats under 30, creative writing, and many, many more.   With so many diverse groups to join, it’s easy for newcomers to make new friends and connections.

For the full list of International Living’s choices for retirement havens, read the entire article

Costa Rica lists number 10th in The most positive country of the world, this is different from the Happiest People on earth, according to a survey this new parameters is different from the other one.

“Gallup measured positive emotions in 148 countries and areas in 2011 using five questions. These questions ask people whether they experienced a lot of enjoyment the day before the survey and whether they felt respected, well-rested, laughed and smiled a lot, and did or learned something interesting.

The average percentage of respondents worldwide who said “yes” to these five questions reflects a relatively upbeat world. Gallup found that 85% of adults worldwide felt treated with respect all day, 72% smiled and laughed a lot, 73% felt enjoyment a lot of the day, and 72% felt well-rested. The only emotion that less than half of people worldwide reported experiencing was getting to learn or do something interesting the previous day, at 43%. Despite many global challenges, people worldwide are experiencing many positive emotions.”

Higher income does not necessarily mean higher well being so with that said …One more reason to live in Costa Rica

Expecting change and hopes of better living and learning.. a possible opportunity for a change…

Enjoy the rest of the year and have a happy, happy and very positive New Year!!!!!!

Some information on how to pay the Luxury Home Tax

The impuesto solidario, is approaching The due date is January 16, The Tax Administration will provide at their:  website dgt.hacienda.go.cr, the details of each Tax’s pending and how to pay it on a bank. The percentage to pay depends on the value of the property and the Tax percent ranks from from 0.24 to 0.55.

They will have not only to pay and interest calculated from the due date, but they will be on a list of delinquents on their website.

On their page, you will find theSo hurry and pay your taxes….

Guanacaste Ventures U.S., Inc., Will Receive Net Proceeds from Sale to Aid Charitable Mission

For additional information contact:
Stephen Kretsinger (800)444-5044
skretsinger@unitedcountry.com

Click to enlarge

August 16, 2012 (KANSAS CITY, Mo.) – Agroganadera Pinilla, S.A., the owner of Hacienda Pinilla Beach Resort and Residential Community, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, announced today that it will offer qualified investors and developers a unique opportunity to participate in an auction of the Hacienda Pinilla to accelerate the realization of the vision for the project. Additionally, net proceeds from the newly invested capital will be used to permanently fund the operations and charitable work of Guanacaste Ventures U.S., Inc., and its counterpart foundation in Costa Rica, Fundación Progreso Guanacaste, each established by Mr. H.G. (“Pat”) Pattillo, majority shareholder of Agroganadera Pinilla, S.A., to continue the work of the foundations focused on education, healthcare and affordable housing for the people of Guanacaste.

“For over 40 years, I have been blessed and enriched by the opportunity to be part of the Guanacaste community and feel as strongly now as ever about the importance of investing in its future. As I advance in my years, it is important for me to make certain that the work of the foundations continue after I am no longer able to personally ensure that funds are available for continuation of the foundations’ operations. It is our intention to secure a new investor for the project as soon as practical so that we can build on the work of the foundations, which has included the improvement or repair of over 45 schools in Guanacaste, local medical assistance, construction of affordable housing, and scholarships for Guanacaste young people to attend universities in the U.S. It is also important that we continue to build value in the project for the benefit of those that call Hacienda Pinilla home” said Mr. Pattillo, an entrepreneur and philanthropist from Decatur, Georgia.

United Country Real Estate, a premier global real estate brokerage and auction company specializing in marketing distinctive, investment grade real estate assets, has been engaged to assist Agroganadera Pinilla, S.A. to market the project to qualified investors internationally in cooperation with David Pinsel, Managing Director of Colliers International North Texas, and Patrick Duffy, President of Colliers International Houston. The property will be offered to the highest bidder subject to seller confirmation of the offer.

“The newly-renovated international airport – only a 45-minute drive from the project, with increased daily flights and passenger traffic – puts Guanacaste is on the ‘short list’ for global tourists and retirees. Hacienda Pinilla is the premier established resort in the area and combines all the amenities and convenience expected of a world class destination resort community and the best of what the Costa Rican lifestyle has to offer,” said Mr. Dan Duffy, Chief Executive Officer, United Country Real Estate. “There is a reason why the developers of the recently opened J.W. Marriott chose to build on this property. They were secure in the fact that the extensive in-place infrastructure, comprehensive permitting and extensive amenities which include a Mike Young designed 7,300 yard masterpiece 18 hole golf course, beach club and spa, fine dining, equestrian facilities, Certified Audubon International Sanctuary and world class white sand beaches would drive interest in their property…and they were right” added Mr. Duffy.

“Due to the scale of what is being offered to the market, approximately 4,450 acre master-planned and permitted communities and the unique opportunity for investors and developers to invest in a one of a kind project with exceptional infrastructure and “turnkey” operations, Hacienda Pinilla will be offered both in carefully articulated development parcels and in its entirety,” said Mike Jones, President, United Country Auction Services. “We are already receiving exceptionally strong interest in the project. With multiple beach and ocean front, golf course and mountain hotel and residential development tracts, equestrian ‘ranchette’ communities, retail and mixed-use sites there is really something for every developer serious about being part of a truly unique development opportunity in an exceptional part of the world.”

United Country Real Estate is the principal broker and auctioneer representing the seller for this offering in cooperation with Colliers International. Interested parties are welcome to visit www.HaciendaPinillaAuction.com  or call 1-800-444-5044 or 1-816-420-6253 to learn more about the investment opportunities at Hacienda Pinilla.

About Guanacaste Ventures U.S., Inc., Fundación Progreso Guanacaste and Hacienda Pinilla

Guanacaste Ventures U.S., Inc., is a private non-profit organization dedicated to improving education, health and housing in North and South America. In cooperation with its sister foundation in Costa Rica, Fundación Progreso Guanacaste, Guanacaste Ventures U.S., Inc., has provided scholarships to Costa Rican students from the region of Guanacaste for use in attending U.S. colleges and universities. The foundations were established in 2000 by Mr. H.G. (“Pat”) Pattillo, the majority shareholder of Agroganadera Pinilla, S.A. The original idea was to use profits garnered from the Hacienda Pinilla Beach Resort and Residential Community to improve the lives and offer educational opportunities of the citizens of the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica. The foundations have used these funds to build numerous schools, houses and healthcare facilities, as well as provide scholarships, every year since its inception.

About United Country

United Country Real Estate is the largest fully integrated network of conventional and auction real estate professionals in the United States and Central America. The company has been an innovator in real estate marketing since 1925. United Country supports nearly 550 offices across the U.S., Costa Rica, Panama and resort areas of Mexico, with a unique, comprehensive marketing program that includes one of the largest portfolios of property marketing websites (more than 3,000 separate sites and traffic of approximately 3 million visitors per month), multiple United Country real estate catalogs with national distribution , an extensive buyer database and national advertising of local properties that reaches more than 90 million homes per week. United Country has recently been recognized by Franchise Business Review, AllBusiness.com, The Land Report, Entrepreneur and The Wall Street Journal as one of the top U.S. real estate companies.

About Colliers International

Colliers International is the third-largest commercial real estate services company in the world, with over 12,300 professionals operating out of more than 522 offices in 62 countries. A subsidiary of FirstService Corporation (NASDAQ: FSRV; TSX: FSV and FSV.PR.U), it focuses on accelerating success for its clients by seamlessly providing a full range of services to real estate users, owners and investors worldwide, including global corporate solutions, brokerage, property and asset management, hotel investment sales and consulting, valuation, consulting and appraisal services, mortgage banking and research. Commercial Property Executive and Multi-Housing News magazines ranked Colliers International the top U.S. real estate company. The latest annual survey by the Lipsey Company ranked Colliers International as the second-most recognized commercial real estate firm in the world.

The Costa Rican people are arguably the happiest people in the world according to the Happy Person index which weighs the value of happiness not on economic wealth and foreign investment but rather looks to ecological footprint and life expectancy. Following the belief that money does not make you happy this is an index that has some value.

With more and more studies showing that being in tune with the natural world around us is becoming what many doctors are prescribing for many disorders e.g. anxiety, stress, ADHD, and the list goes on. The idea is to get out and get yourself a dosage of Vitamin-N (Nature). Costa Rica is a country that has 30% of its land protected and no matter where you stand in the country you probably can see a protected area in the birds-eye view.

Along with the idea of life expectancy you can apply that a less stressed person and happy person will live longer. The Costa Rican people are all of these in most part due to their location on the planet with two beautiful coasts, spectacular mountain ranges, and many more marvelous natural wonders. It is what they have chose to do with these areas that has kept them happy. It is only natural that if you start destroying your very own life support system, a feeling of sadness will follow. Here in Costa Rica vibrant life is all around us. Some of the most biodiverse places on the planet can be found in Costa Rica. It is where life has fine tuned evolution to become a perfect balance. It seems even the Costa Rican people have found that balance as they are living among the natural world and feeling the benefits from it.

Let’s face it: in Costa Rica, there are a lot of cookie-cutter developments with row upon row of identical houses.  Even in some larger developments, home styles vary, but lots are small and houses are closely spaced.

If you long for more elbow room, great views, privacy, and perhaps a place for horses or other furry friends, choices can be limited.  Often buyers coming from North America are surprised at the small size of many building lots in the Central Valley.

If you are used to having a few acres to stretch you legs, but don’t want to drive an hour to get to schools or work, then it can be challenging to find larger parcels that are still convenient to all the services and amenities that the city offers.

Luckily there are some properties that cater to a select clientele who are interested in building a refined country retreat where peace and quiet prevail, yet still close to all the goods and services that are necessary for a cosmopolitan lifestyle.

United Country Properties in Costa Rica specializes in filling this niche market of estate-size building lots.

We have larger view lots in Salitral de Santa Ana inside a gated community of only 16 estate-style lots.

We also have a panoramic view property of 10 acres located in Piedades, only 3 km from the Ciudad Colon tollbooth on the Caldera highway.

Or take advantage of a special price on a 6.5 acre view parcel in the hills of Escazu.

Whether you are looking to build a family compound, private horse stables, or just have room to enjoy a relaxed country lifestyle, these properties have it all: views, privacy, wildlife, and room to spread your wings.

2) Tranquil life of a farming community. We wanted all of the benefits of living in a large city but none of the liabilities. We have high speed internet, good grocery markets, open air fruit and vegetable markets, but no traffic congestion or air pollution from too many vehicles.

3) Location. We are also perfectly positioned in the middle of the country and can be to the Caribbean Coast in 3-4 hours and the Pacific in 5 hours. We are a 1.5 hours from San Jose by car or bus. We have excellent Directo Bus from Turrialba to San Jose that costs less than $6 round trip.

4) Health Care. We have the William Allen Hospital in Turrialba about 15 minutes from the property. CATIE has donated land for the construction of a new public hospital with projected completion date of 2 years. This hospital will be located about 10 minutes from the property. We also have an excellent private clinic in Turrialba and can highly recommend a physician there who was trained in London. Our pharmacist in Turrialba also speaks perfect English and is always available for minor emergencies 7 days a week.

5) Water. We have abundant municipal water which is unmetered. Just to be safe, we installed state of the art water purification and filtration systems consisting of reverses osmosis, UV light and ceramic filters.

6) CATIE. CATIE is the premiere tropical agricultural research institution in Latin America. Scholars from the world over come here to complete their doctor’s degrees and are involved in tropical agricultural research. The CATIE contributes much to the community and hosts and annual International Fair, and has one of the finest English language schools in Costa Rica. They also have a kindergarten through high school program in Spanish/English that is a world class educational facility.

7) Fine dining & hotels. We have some excellent resturantes & hotels in the area. Hotel Casa Turrie is about 10 minutes from the property and has a Swiss Chef. This 5 star hotel and restaurant is as good as it gets anywhere in the world. We also have Hotel TurrialTico with a fine restaurant and Angustura is only a few minutes from the property.

8) Neighbors. Our neighbors are our friends. We could not ask for better neighbors. They are constantly looking out for us and grateful that we moved to their community.

9) La Suiza. The small town of La Suiza is only a few minutes from the property and has an excellent bakery, 2 grocery stores and most of your basic needs.

10) Pura Vida Lifestyle!

The town of Turrialba is surrounded by beautiful mountains, volcanoes, and large tracks of land that run as far as the eye can see leaving you a horizon day after day of marvelous sunsets.

Turrialba still has the small town feeling and many people call it the port without a sea because of its relax vibe, astonishing scenery, and pura vida feeling. It is a town that is home to some of Costa Rica’s most miraculous natural wonders with the Turrialba Volcano, Tapanti National Park, and the world famous Pacuare River. Travel to Turrialba on a Saturday or Sunday and you will see the true meaning of family time. All of the crystal clear nearby rivers are visited by families enjoying a day in the sun and fun. It is a Costa Rica that many foreigners imagine when they visit. It is also home to some great country style restaurants and a few very small but high end boutique hotels for those of you that like a bit of luxury and gourmet meal every now and then.

The town of Turrialba is located just 2 hours east of the capital city of San Jose. There’s not much need to leave Turrialba now because of the larger super markets and everyday amenities that can be found in the center of town. The Municipal office has plans of building a new hospital in the coming years as it prepares for a more developed future of Turrialba.

Turrialba is the area of Costa Rica where you see no barb-wire. It is the area of Costa Rica where you leave your house door open and rarely worry about petty theft. It is also a part of Costa Rica that can allow the investor to purchase large tracks of land that have been used for agriculture or even more have been untouched primary rainforest for as many years as our simple human minds can imagine.

A visit to Turrialba will leave your mind and body in a state of peace and the feeling to never want to leave. The chance to purchase large pieces of land that you might not be able to afford in other parts of Costa Rica is appealing. You can have a house on many acres, close to town, and still plenty of primary rainforest. The idea of owning primary rainforest in Costa Rica is not only bragging rights for your urban friends to hear but it is also a business as the government of Costa Rica is now offering yearly payments to landowners of untouched rainforest. This idea of preserving land is a business that our planet can not afford to give up. and countries all over the world will be staying committed to projects like this becoming more of the norm as Costa Rica is setting the path for conservation and a better future for our children and grandchildren.

The event will kick off with a Continental Breakfast beginning at 6:30 AM, followed by a shotgun start for golfers at 7:00 AM.  After the tournament there will be an awards luncheon with recognition for the winners, micro-brewed beer, and loads of fabulous prizes.  United Country will have a tent set up at the18th hole, where we will be promoting our excellent golf properties in Valle del Sol, as well as other premier homes for sale all over Costa Rica.

Field is limited to 108 golfers and limited spots for golfers are still available. (Call Marjan 2203-1803 if you are interested in signing up). Just a few of the prizes available for participants:

• Round-trip United Airlines tickets
• Salon 202 spa packages
• Golf Rounds from Hacienda Pinilla, Cariari, and Valle del Sol
• Restaurant gift certificates  from Product C, Cowtown, Maya Lounge, and more!
• Hotel gift certificates from Hotel Indigo, Los Suenos, Pura Vida Hotel, CocoMar Beach Resort and more!
• Massage from  Karen Medicina Integral & Estètica
• and much more!

The tournament always attracts a great group of friends and competitors and United Country Properties in Costa Rica is thrilled to  support SASY! and its mission to end animal suffering.  Stop by the 18th Hole to meet the Properties in Costa Rica team!

This year, a few hundred thousand intrepid American travellers will head to places like Thailand and Costa Rica, in search of something that they can’t find in the United States. They won’t be looking for Mayan ruins or ancient Buddhist temples, but something a bit more practical: affordable medical care. These medical tourists will be getting root canals, knee surgeries, and hip replacements at foreign hospitals. If health-care costs in the U.S. keep rising—and especially if Obamacare is overturned by the Supreme Court—more of us may soon be joining them.

For decades, wealthy people from developing countries have come here for care, but these days medical tourists travel all over the world. And while it’s hard to disentangle the stats from the hype—a number of countries portray themselves as favored destinations—it’s clear that millions of people are now doing this. The Bumrungrad hospital, in Bangkok, treats four hundred thousand foreign patients annually. Malaysia had almost six hundred thousand medical tourists last year. And South Korea had more than a hundred thousand, nearly a third of them American.

For Americans, the attraction is obvious: medical care is a lot cheaper abroad. At CIMA Hospital, in Costa Rica, for instance, hip-replacement surgery costs around fifteen thousand dollars, roughly a sixth of the average here. So far, though, various factors have kept a lid on demand. Logistics can be challenging, and insurance companies have been leery about reimbursements for care overseas: they already get big discounts with U.S. hospitals, and they risk a public-relations disaster anytime something goes wrong abroad. Above all, patients have been wary. We trust the quality of foreign-made televisions and cars, but we haven’t taken that leap when it comes to foreign doctors. People worry about the lack of legal recourse, and the sheer unfamiliarity of medical tourism makes people hesitant to try it. A few years ago, the grocery-store chain Hannaford set up a partnership for the benefit of its employees with a well-accredited Singaporean hospital. Singapore is one of the most prosperous countries in the world, but medical care there is still significantly cheaper than in the U.S., so the arrangement looked like a model for how medical tourism might work. But none of Hannaford’s workers were interested in going to Singapore.

There are a host of forces that could change this. The quality of medical facilities in developing countries has risen dramatically, and the private hospitals that cater to tourists often feature technologies similar to those in American hospitals. (This has its problematic side: many of these high-end hospitals are in countries where citizens struggle to get basic care.) Furthermore, new companies are making treatment abroad easier and more attractive. Blue Cross/Blue Shield has started a company called Companion Global Healthcare, which connects patients with hospitals around the world. Political events could also quickly make medical tourism considerably more attractive. If Obamacare is overturned, forty million Americans without insurance will stay that way. If Medicaid and Medicare are cut sharply, the cost of American health care will eventually become prohibitive to many senior citizens. And if health-care costs keep soaring fewer employers will offer health insurance. That doesn’t mean that Americans are soon going to jet halfway around the world for an ingrown toenail, but it’s easy to envisage regional systems becoming common, with Americans heading to places like Costa Rica and Mexico, and Western Europeans going to places like Hungary and Turkey.

If more Americans sought care abroad, it wouldn’t just save them money; it could also help control medical costs at home. Medical tourism can be considered a kind of import: instead of the product coming to the consumer, as it does with cars or sneakers, the consumer is going to the product. More medical tourism would increase free trade in medical services, something there has not been much of in the past. The U.S. has been religious about breaking down barriers to free trade, especially in manufacturing and service industries, exposing ordinary workers to foreign competition. But health care has been insulated from the forces of globalization. This has been great for hospitals and doctors, but less good for consumers. It’s one reason that the cost of health care has risen so much faster than that of almost everything else.

It has been generally assumed that medicine is inherently a local business. But that would change if we allowed Medicare and Medicaid funds to be spent in foreign hospitals, or if insurers cut consumers in on the savings from treatment abroad. And if domestic hospitals actually had to compete with places like Bumrungrad or CIMA, the way American car companies have to compete with Toyota and Honda, they might be forced to become more efficient. Even an increase in domestic medical tourism—people journeying to lower-cost U.S. hospitals, like the Cleveland Clinic—would help. There are other ways to bring free trade to medicine, too. As the economist Dean Baker has argued, making it easier for foreign doctors who met standardized requirements to practice in the U.S. would hold down costs and improve service. In addition to exporting patients, we could import doctors. Politically speaking, of course, this all seems improbable, because the medical industry is a powerful lobby and uninterested in competition. But the reality is that, unless we find some other way to rein in health-care costs, the logic of free trade in medicine is going to become harder to resist. ♦

Read more http://www.newyorker.com/talk/financial/2012/04/16/120416ta_talk_surowiecki#ixzz1t0LtYpVg

Ciudad Colon is located only a few kilometers from the Caldera Highway, allowing residents to make the 1.5 trip to the beach with ease.  Colon also benefits from its location alongside the impressive Virilla Canyon, which provides spectacular views and an abundance of wildlife.  Fresh breezes from the canyon keep the weather in Colon pleasant year-round and make it an ideal location to relax and enjoy time outdoors.  For families with school age children, Colon is an excellent choice, because private schools such as Country Day, Colegio Blue Valley, St. Jude’s and the Panamerican School are all within easy travel distance and offer daily bus service.

If you are looking for a place that strikes the right balance between convenience and tranquility, look no farther than Ciudad Colon.

April 9, 2012 – (KANSAS CITY, Mo.) –United Country Real Estate, the nation’s largest seller of lifestyle real estate, has continued its expansion with the opening of 12 new offices in the United States and six new affiliates in foreign markets. On top of this first quarter 2012 growth, the company has shown a 23-percent increase in real estate transactions during same period.

“Six years ago, United Country recommitted to its 87-year-old roots with major across-the-board investments in new services, new technology, new thinking and a strengthened property marketing program to better serve our buying and selling clients,” said Dan Duffy, chief executive officer for United Country Real Estate. “The results we are seeing now from our affiliated offices are a direct result of these targeted investments. We, in close collaboration with our professional local office owners, agents and brokers, are outperforming the current market and are really enjoying the byproduct of a great deal of hard work by the dedicated professionals that are proud to be part of what is proving to be an extremely bright future for the company. We expect a continuation of expansion in the network and our affiliated offices sales volumes in the coming months.”

Just in the first quarter of this year, United Country has opened offices in Mena, Ark.; Eagle, Colo.; Fort Collins, Colo.; Lincoln, Maine.; Moriarty, N.M.; Beaufort, N.C.; Camden, TN.; Aledo, Texas.; Mt. Pleasant, Texas; Independence, Va.; Midlothian, Va.; and Penhook, Va. In addition to new U.S. affiliates, United Country has opened offices in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico; Pavones, Costa Rica; and Dominical, Costa Rica. The company has further plans in place to expand into six more areas of Costa Rica, Panama and Mexico by year’s end.

Growth was realized across many of the market segments United Country specializes in including land up 52 percent, recreational properties up 36 percent and given the incredible demand for farmland, farms more than doubled versus the first quarter of 2011. Another sign of an improving real estate market can be seen in home sales in the small cities and towns the company serves with sales of residential properties up 12 percent.

“With the real estate market conditions significantly improving, we expect to see this strong growth continue throughout 2012,” said Mike Duffy, president of United Country Real Estate. “Americans still hold dear the dream of homeownership and owning lifestyle real estate, and at United Country, we specialize in helping buyers achieve those dreams.”

About United Country

United Country Real Estate is the largest fully integrated network of conventional and auction real estate professionals in the United States. The company has been an innovator in real estate marketing since 1925. United Country supports nearly 550 offices across the U.S., Costa Rica, Panama and resort areas of Mexico, with a unique, comprehensive marketing program that includes one of the largest portfolios of property marketing websites (more than 3,000 separate sites and traffic of approximately 3 million visitors per month), multiple United Country real estate catalogs with national distribution , an extensive buyer database and national advertising of local properties that reaches more than 90 million homes per week. United Country has recently been recognized by Franchise Business Review,  AllBusiness.com, The Land Report, Entrepreneur and The Wall Street Journal as one of the top U.S. real estate companies.

It seems like everytime we stop and look Costa Rica is coming out in a new study ranked as the happiest, the greenest, and who knows what is next. Being the happiest and the greenest country can be related if you take a deeper look at the equation and the studies. The more time you spend in nature and the more attention you give to protecting your surroundings the happier of a place you will have created for your society.

If you are looking to invest in Real Estate it seems like a no-brainer as Costa Rica is becoming more and more of a spot to live a happy and environmentally friendly life-style.

Jaco beach is turning into the combination of both. You can find the beaches, monkeys, and ziplines but also enjoy the lifestyle of the city. The Jaco Theater which was startred by Darren Lee Cole who is the co-owner of the SoHo Playhouse in NYC is in its first season and has been a great success having starting with the Christmas Carol it will not be running its second show.

The show of the season is called 17 Borders Crossings and has traveled from Madrid to make to perform at the theatre in Jaco from Jan. 19th – Jan. 29th. Tickets are on sale now and go treat yourself to a weekend in Jaco or find yourself a weekend vacation home in Jaco with beautiful beaches and some of the ammenities of the city.

Tamales is a traditional dish that is made of corn base that involves a long process to get them just right. One of the most interesting things about the many Tamales that are made in the country is that they all taste just a little differerent. You will notice that everyone you talk to claims that their grandmother makes the best tamales. In my personal opinion all of the tamales are good and it is the vacation season, nice weather, and overall joy of the Christmas season that makes for each tamales to be the best tasting.

If you are offered a tamale this Christmas season yo almost always have to say yes and dont forget to save room for the next because chances are you will be offered them until they run out which is usually after the New Year.

With the rains tapering off  and the beginning of summer just a few weeks away, soon we will see the population of tourists, ex-pats and Ticos begin to fill in at the beach. Here in Pavones, the horses that have had the beaches to themselves for the last few months will have to share with the coming surfers, sun bathers, and bikini clad girls who adorn the shoreline in the summer months. The economic stimulus that accompanies our guests will be welcomed by locals as the cabinas become occupied and the restaurants stock their kitchens. The smell of pan seared tuna and the wonderful aroma of chuletas and onions will fill the air and fill the tables with people sharing their daily experiences here in the jungle. Children will be on vacation from school and will enjoy the freedom from studies and the energy of youth as they play soccer on the plaza, explore the rivers and beaches, and reunite with visiting family members during the holidays. With the approaching New Year and the promise of Costa Rica’s many attractions, we are all looking forward to a healthy, happy and prosperous 2012!

Pura Vida from Pavones, Costa Rica

Bobby Nielsen,

United Country – Properties in Costa Rica Associate in Pavones, Southern Pacific

ExpoVino which was held at Real Intercontinental was a display of your wine options in Costa Rica from all over the world. ExpoVino was a success for their third year. What they are noticing is that Ticos are becoming very educated and doing their research on different wines. Many Costa Rican’s drink wines from Chile due to the free trade agreement and the average spent on a bottle is about $10′s which is relatively cheap when talking about wine. This might be due to the fact that Costa Rican’s are new to the wine industry and with a few more years of experience and taste it is thought that they will begin to spend the extra money on finer wines. Keep an eye on the economy and keep an eye on what kind of whine you see being offered in places. CHEERS!

Hope you enjoy the video! Let’s stay connected!

Art Guzman

For those of you in the business world this might sound like a dirty investment but it happens to be one of the best investments you will find in these times. One option would be to look for a nice piece of land in Costa Rica and build your retirement home and after that you can invest in Costa Rica’s new sewer treatment plant. They are expecting this project to cost around 2.5 billion dollars.

The numbers are not out yet but over the next 20 years having an investment in this might be one of the most solid things to think about along with investing in some land in Costa Rica.

In the Forbe’s magazine article they mention that the park is a century younger than Yosemite. Not only is it younger but it is just a small fraction of the size. Yosemite is huge and this small little pearl of Manuel Antonio on the Pacific of Costa Rica is 1,500 acres while Yosemite is 800,000 acres. This is quite the difference in size but they say “good t

hings come in small packages” as is the case with Manuel Antonio National Park. The national Park of Manuel Antonio is also located at the end of a peninsula. The better portion of the length of this peninsula is now hotels, condos, and properties looking to get the best view of the protected national park while keeping their distance to help keep it pristine and in the best of conditions.

The Manuel National Park is closed on mondays in order to allow the wildlife, trails, and foliage to have it’s natural way without visitors. During the Mondays in the area there is still plenty to do and see with sea-kayak tours, ziplines, ATV’s, sailing, and just relaxing at some of the most luxurious hotels in all of Costa Rica or just chilling at a 6 bedroom house rental with startling views of the deep blue pacific.

There are plenty of people that are in their day to day jobs that dream of moving to tropical paradise surrounded by nature. Have we ever wondered why this might be. Well it turns out it is only “natural” to want to be surrounded by the very life system that gives you life. This is ultimately important for kids and many adults need to break the barrier of being detached from nature.

In Richard Louv’s book “Last Child in the Woods — Saving kids from Nature-Deficit Disorder” he talks about the damaging affects of raising children in a world where they have more “screen time” than “stream time”. Kids grow up so detached from nature he says that they have much higher risk of health problems such as obesity and attention disorders. He also argues that this detachment from nature could have a devastating affect on future generations and the functioning of societies.

For those that have moved to Costa Rica and found themselves in a tropical paradise surrounded by nature like on the ridges of the Dominical area surrounded by jungle with views of the Pacific I can assure you that their stress level has dropped. If you decide to move down to an area of Costa Rica surrounded by nature and you have your children experience the beauty of the tropics you will be opening them up to the natural world at an early age which will be nothing but beneficial to their future health.

Richard Louv did the study of the affects of kids lacking nature but it would be interesting to found out how those that decided to make the move to Costa Rica just how much their health mentally and physically has improved.

If your looking for the perfect Oasis in nature let us know and we can make your dream a reality.

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There was also a study by FDI intelligence that looked at 405 Latin American cities and found San Jose as the 5th best city of the future in all of Latin America. It was ranked as the top city for the future in Central America.

This is great news for Costa Rica on investing and can already be seen in companies making decisions such as IBM’s recent investment of $300 million.

The article starts out by asking Arturo who is buying properties in Costa Rica? The answer was that local Costa Rican’s and foreigners are buying properties. The locals are encouraged to buy with the opening credit while many foreigners are buying with direct financing available through the buyer. There is also a number of foreigners and Costa Rican’s that have the capital available to buy.

In talking about the recent years of the market in Costa Rica Arturo makes the comment that “Remember that the prices in Costa Rica wre unrealistic in the past years because of the housing boom in the United States” He also states that “in this country people get carried away because a “real estate” expert told them their property is worth so much or that a nearby property sold for a certain price”. The answer goes on to point out the importance of working with reputable appraisal experts and Real Estate companies that have an understanding of the market in Costa Rica.

Where to buy in Costa Rica?

Probably everyone’s favorite question of the article is: What are the Areas of Appeal?
Anyone reading a real estate magazine is going to want to know what one of Costa Rica’s most recognized real estate experts has to say about where to buy. Well the answer was related to new roads and some beautifull beaches along the Pacific coast. The new highway is La Caldera highway that runs from San Jose to the Pacific Coast and also the 40 km stretch of the Coastenera highway that connects the port town of Quepos to Dominical and opens up to picturesque beaches from Dominical South.

Future of Costa Rica Real Estate

By now you are asking yourself what the future holds for Costa Rica real estate? When dealing with the future you sort of have to see where the present is. Arturo had an excellent answer when responding to the future of the market. He mentioned that Costa Rica was one of the happiest countries on the planet, people are very educated, and it is of the top eco-tourism destinations on Earth. As far as we can tell the future looks very promising.

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This type of investment in Costa Rica is a home run for the Laura Chinchilla administration and great news for the ever growing techy industry in Costa Rica. Laura has set a goal to have $9 billion in foreign direct investment by 2014 and news like this from IBM i

s a huge leap towards that goal. This is one of the largest investments in Costa Rica in the past decade.

The IBM managers said they picked Costa Rica because they were aware of the talent they could find here. It is said the Laura Chinchilla in her visit to New York last year which was an attempt to rally businesses to invest in her country was where she made the contact with IBM. She then followed up her contact in the month of May and here they are today agreeing to the sweet tune of $300 million dollar investment starting in 2012.

This is excellent news and who knows what other contacts Laura might have made in New York. We can just sit back and wait to see what other major companies follow in the lead of Intel, Hewlett Packard, and now IBM as they put Costa Rica in the global spotlight for the tech industry.

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The projected is designed by CNFL setting up $2,000′s worth of solar equipment on each house. The homes will be able to use up to 400 watts of solar power. If they use less than the 400 watts then the remaining power is a net gain for CNFL and is pumped back into the main grid. If they use more than the 400 watt power it the home is charged for the extra power it uses. CNFL is basically setting renting the space of the roof, giving each home some power, and then taking what is left over. Even though Costa Rica has a good amount of rain the sun it receives is very intense. At just 9 degrees above the equator homes here in Costa Rica will be capable of absorbing a good amount of energy in a short amount of time.

Right now solar power equipment is expensive and just luxury homes will be seen with them or ecolodges but we can expect every home to be on solar power. Experts guess it will be around 3 years before panels are more affordable for each home to have. This is a positive note for the Costa Rica real estate and building industry. Clean energy on residential homes will be more and more common in the future. Places like the sunny beaches of Guanacaste should be a good spot to soak up sun energy.

The Hard Rock Cafe will be opening it’s doors to their Rock and Roll collections in the town of San Jose and also in the Guanacaste area. The first will open in San Jose with an investment of $2 million.

The Hard Rock Cafe is a truly a global phenomenon when it comes to restuarant chains like no other. It’s philosophy on which it has run all of it’s cafes fits perfectly with the country of Costa Rica. The philosophy is “Love all – Serve All” which goes along nicely with the international foreign destination of the peaceful country of Costa Rica that serves it’s visitors and residents with the love for Pura Vida!

When you see the HCR (Hard Rock Cafe’s are known best by HCR) in the San Jose or Guanacaste area it is well worth the visit. Just the step back into the History of Rock and Roll with the guitars, costumes, posters, albums, song sheets, and so much more will make you feel that you are sitting on stage with some of histories top Rock and Roll Stars.

Everyone from Tom Brady, Pink, Britney Spears, Mel Gibson, and the list goes on of those who have come to get a feel for the Pura Vida. The ABC bachelor was filmed at The Springs Resort in the Arenal area which is just one of many reality shows that have come to Costa Rica for it’s friendly environment and majestic tropical backdrop of Mother N

I'm heading to Costa Rica!!!

ature in her finest gown.

Steven Tyler flew into the Liberia Airport the day after the final judging of American Idol. The Liberia Airport is just minutes away from the beaches of Guanacaste. Metallica had their Central American concert last year and they decided to fly in and out of Liberia for each concert even though they were in all different parts of Central America.

If Steven Tyler calls Costa Rica his vacation spot most people would agree that the country of Costa Rica is just more than Pura Vida! The country of Costa Rica Rocks!

In just over 6 months we will know the new population of Costa Rica along with an interesting number of how many foreigners are now calling Costa Rica home. This number of foreigners and retirees will be much higher than it was in the year 2000 and should be a good indicator of how many foreigners enjoy the retired life in Costa Rica.

It is a simple process as memebers mostly teachers will be making their rounds and doing a short interview. If nobody is home in your house then there will be a sheet left and you can fill out the paper with the information. All of the information stated will be private.

A census household is described by a household who share a common budget and prepare food. This will be valuable information for all businesses and government services throughout Costa Rica.

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Source: La Nacion

Costa Rica Construction Rebounds

The area of Escazu has a number of new constructions just in the last year as you drive pass the CIMA hospital it is now surrounded by new hotels and modern extensions to the Multi-Plaza mall. This is a perfect time to invest on some Escazu Condos as many builders are looking to get started on new projects.

Randall Murrillo, executive director of the Chamber of Construction states that he expects to see growth to continue in the coming months. He mentions that he is hoping to close the year with a 12% total growth in Construction around the country. Expect to see the areas of beach front properties to show positive signs of growth also.

This is great news after 25 consecutive months of construction being on a decline it is now making a solid rebound.