Properties in Costa Rica Blog


Exploring the Advantages of Owning Real Estate in Costa Rica

Exploring the Advantages of Owning Real Estate in Costa Rica

January 6, 2023

Properties in Costa Rica

There are plenty of reasons to consider owning real estate in Costa Rica. The country is well-known for its natural beauty. Its laid-back lifestyle is appealing to many. But there are also some significant advantages to owning property here that you may not be aware of. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top benefits of Costa Rican real estate ownership. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, a rental property, or a place to retire, Costa Rica should be on your radar. 

Let’s take a closer look at what this beautiful country has to offer!

Overview of the Real Estate Market in Costa Rica

The real estate market in Costa Rica has grown steadily over the past several years, with new developments and residential housing popping up across the country. While property in desirable tourist destinations such as coastal regions remains pricier than other areas in Costa Rica, you can still find an array of properties at a variety of price points.

Whether you’re looking for a beach-side condo, or a lush inland villa – Costa Rica offers something for all types of buyers.

With enticing locales and infrastructure that caters to tourists, purchasing real estate in Costa Rica is an attractive and lucrative investment opportunity for many people worldwide.

Benefits of Owning Real Estate in Costa Rica

Owning real estate in Costa Rica can be an excellent investment opportunity. Property values can not only tend to increase over time, but there are also great tax benefits as well. The lenient foreign numbers laws make it easy for buyers who are not citizens of Costa Rica to purchase property without any legal hassle.

Costa Rica is welcoming to all types of investors due to its warm and stable political environment, so it’s a smart choice for anyone wanting to invest in real estate for long-term financial rewards and retirement planning. 

Furthermore, rental properties can be incredibly lucrative in some areas, which makes the appeal even more promising. Taking advantage of the opportunity to own real estate in such a beautiful, vibrant country truly has its benefits!

Factors to Consider Before Buying Property in Costa Rica

For those interested in purchasing property in Costa Rica, there are several important aspects to take into account before making any decisions. 

Due to Costa Rica’s rural and natural environment, its infrastructure may not be as developed as in other areas. Therefore, prospective buyers should consider the potential distance from their residences to grocery stores, public transportation hubs, and professional services such as medical clinics, banks, and schools before investing in real estate. 

Other factors include whether the property is located near a city or beach town, local laws related to taxes and ownership rights, and the quality of water supply on the land. 

Those who plan to stay in the country for reasonable periods will also want to research the available housing options and check that their desired location provides adequate amenities for their needs.

Financial and Tax Benefits of Investing in Real Estate in Costa Rica

Investing in real estate in Costa Rica can provide substantial financial and tax benefits. Investors may be eligible for credits and concessions, such as reduced income taxes on rental income, caps on capital gains taxes, and waivers from estate taxes and transfer fees. 

Investors also have a choice of fixed or long-term mortgage instruments that offer attractive financing options, allowing them to leverage their investments for maximum returns.

Furthermore, Costa Rica’s tax laws are designed to make real estate ownership attractive by affording generous educational deductions and other deductions for interest expenses. 

For all these reasons, investing in real estate in Costa Rica is a great way to grow your wealth while taking advantage of many potential financial and tax benefits.

Tips for Finding the Best Investment Opportunities in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers a unique and attractive investment landscape to those looking for long-term opportunities. With its growing economy, low crime rates, great infrastructure, and strong tourism industry, it’s no surprise that many investors are eyeing the place for their next venture. 

To make sure you are finding the best opportunities in Costa Rica, you should start by doing your research. Read up on the local markets and check the news to get an idea of what kind of sectors are thriving right now; look into laws and regulations related to foreign investment; network with people already in Costa Rica who can give you invaluable advice; and prepare financially. 

Even if it’s already a well-established business possibility or a successful startup, take time to properly study every aspect before taking action. 

Additionally, if you’re still unsure of how to invest in Costa Rica, reaching out to experts in this field will be key – they can help you make well-informed decisions that will ensure the success of your project.

Are There Any Drawbacks to Owning Real Estate in Costa Rica?

Owning real estate in Costa Rica is a popular choice for many people, this tropical paradise offers plenty of different activities that can keep even the busiest person occupied.

But, as with any investment, there are certain drawbacks to owning real estate here. For one thing, managing a property from abroad can be a challenge, particularly if you don’t have a reliable on-the-ground contact who can take care of things for you. 

Plus, there are several costs associated with ownership and upkeep, such as taxes and insurance that can add up quickly if not budgeted properly in advance. 

Lastly, being foreign-owned means that some legal issues may present barriers to what you are trying to accomplish – understanding Costa Rican law and knowing how to navigate potential obstacles is key when buying or selling property in the country. 

All in all, while ownership of property here provides its rewards, it’s important to consider any possible drawbacks before taking the plunge.

Wrapping Up

Despite the current effects of COVID-19 on the real estate market, owning property in Costa Rica still has many benefits. If you’re thinking of buying property in Costa Rica, be sure to consider all the factors involved before making a decision. With its natural beauty, stable economy, and friendly people, Costa Rica is a great place to own a piece of paradise.

About the author: Diane H Wong works as a writer at a custom essay writing service, kingessays.com. Her favorite challenge is jumping into new technology and learning about the latest marketing techniques. In this case, Diane has a chance to share her experience with other people and stay on top of evolving tech trends.




Why Small Businesses Should Consider Renting a Property

Why Small Businesses Should Consider Renting a Property

December 27, 2022

Properties in Costa Rica

If you’re running a business, you must consider how your location affects your business and customers. For small businesses, it can be challenging to run a business when there aren’t enough places to store your inventory, make payments, or even locate customers. Small business owners need to find a way to make themselves more efficient and offer their services and products in new ways. 

Acquiring a retail space for lease can help you do this by allowing you to operate out of any location that suits your needs. If you are considering renting a property to set up your business, there are many reasons why this could make sense. This article explains why small businesses should consider renting a property.

Buying vs Renting a Property for Business

When starting a business, you must ensure you are using money effectively. Instead, you should be focusing on your business and how to grow it. You must spend your money wisely and avoid making any mistakes.

One of the most common mistakes that startups make is buying a property for their business instead of renting one. There are many reasons why you should opt for a shop space to rent instead of buying one. Renting is an excellent way for small businesses to get started. Here are reasons why small businesses should consider renting a property:

Reduced Risk

If you own a small business, you understand that the unexpected is the most significant risk you face. In business, so much can happen, from employee turnover to equipment breakdowns or power outages. In such cases, your business must have the resources and flexibility to keep moving forward.

Small business space for rent can reduce these risks by providing long-term access to dedicated shop space. And unlike buying a space, which requires upfront capital for renovations and fixtures and ongoing maintenance costs, renting makes it easy for businesses to shift as their needs change over time.

Flexible Space

Acquiring a retail space for lease gives you plenty of options if you need extra office space or work from home. You can always find somewhere bigger if needed, but if your business grows, so does your rent bill! If things are quiet at the moment and you aren’t using all of the space available, then it makes sense to rent out unused rooms instead of paying for them when they’re not being used.

It is Less Expensive 

Renting can be less expensive than buying. Businesses that need more funds to purchase a building outright may want to rent an office space instead. Many different leases are available, so you can find the one that works best for your business. You will also save on utilities and maintenance costs by renting instead of owning.

Renting also allows you to pay only for what you use, making it easy for small businesses with a limited amount of money. For example, suppose your business is only open four days a week but needs an office five days a week. Renting might work out better than buying or leasing an office space.

You Don’t Have to Worry About Maintenance

When you own a property, you are responsible for all maintenance issues. If any repairs are needed, it will be up to you to handle them. However, this is not an issue if you rent a small commercial space because someone else will take care of it. This is especially true if you are looking for office space or business premises that need constant upkeep and maintenance.

You Are Not Responsible for Property Taxes

Property taxes are common expenses for a business, but they often represent a significant financial burden. If you own a property and have to pay the annual property tax bill, you can be held responsible for those taxes even if your business has moved out of that space. You can avoid this liability entirely by opting for a small commercial space to rent.

Renting Allows More Location Flexibility

When you own a property in the same city as your business, it’s easy to drop everything and move to another location at any time. But if you rent out a space, finding another place that meets all your needs is more burdensome. 

You may have no choice but to take on additional risk if you try to relocate too quickly. Renting allows you to move without worrying about finding another suitable space immediately.

The Process Is Much Faster

Another benefit of acquiring a small commercial space for rent is that the process is much faster than buying or building your property. It takes less time, money, and effort to rent a property than to build one from scratch.

If you’re interested in investing in real estate but are still determining how long it will take for your investment return, renting may be a better option. This is until you get more familiar with the market and determine how long your investment return will take.

It’s Not a Long-Term Commitment

Retail space for lease allows you to decide how much time and money you want to commit to your business. Long-term leases do not tie you down; instead, you can decide when and if you want to move locations.

Suppose something unexpected happens, like an increased demand for your product or service. In that case, you can easily adjust and expand as needed without worrying about finding a new location.

Ability to Expand and Contract Depending on the Season

Renting a property allows you to grow your business without worrying about buying new properties or moving out of them once your company no longer needs them. It also means that if things go south regarding business productivity or sales volume. Thus, you won’t be stuck paying for an empty building while waiting for things to improve again.

No Building Code Complications

Owners must comply with all local codes when they build their properties or rent out space to others. But there’s no such requirement when renting, so it’s less likely your landlord will have any issues with your business operations at their property.

Turnkey Location

The other main reason people should choose to rent a property is that they have an ideal location for their business needs. Suppose you know what kind of business you want to open but need to know where or how much space it will take up in your current office space.

In that case, it might be worth considering renting out an entire building or even an entire city block so that you can find the perfect spot for your new venture!

No Hidden Costs

Buying a property can be expensive because of the fees associated with owning it. You’ll need to pay yearly property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. So when you take out a mortgage, those expenses are added to the loan.

Renting allows you to avoid these hidden costs, so your business can focus on growing without worrying about financing decisions or tax obligations. When you rent, the landlord handles all those expenses and will pass them along in rent payments without additional fees to your business or employees.

Get a Place With the Right Square Footage

If you’re looking for a large space to set up shop, renting space can be a good option. You don’t have to worry about buying or leasing your building and dealing with all the headaches that come with it. You can get what you want in a small commercial space for rent without spending hours researching different options.

Renting Allows You to Try Out Different Neighborhoods and Spaces

When you’re just starting, knowing the right location for your business can take time. You could prefer a bustling city center, or you might be more interested in a rural area with fewer people around. Whatever the case, renting allows you to try out different neighborhoods and spaces without committing long-term.

Most small businesses prefer to be in a more established location. This is because it gives them access to better clients and customers. If you have grown too big for your current location, renting allows you to try out new neighborhoods and spaces without committing for a long time. This could help you save money or find an ideal space that would not be available through traditional real estate options.

No Upfront Costs

You don’t have to pay up-front expenses when renting a property. When you own a business, you must pay for the entire cost of it, including all of its equipment and furnishings. If your business is small and requires little equipment or furnishings, this may not be an issue for you. However, if it costs more for equipment or furnishings, you may want to pay cash for them instead of leasing them from a landlord.

Rental Fees Are Low 

Most landlords charge month-to-month rental fees instead of asking for long-term leases or annual payments to minimize risk. If your business grows slower than expected, there will be no big surprises when it comes time to renew your lease at the end of each year.

Conclusion

If a small business is looking for a place to call home for the next few years that won’t break the bank or strain its budget, this could be the answer. There’s no question about it: renting can be an excellent solution for small businesses. 

Whether it’s because you want to test out a location before committing or are just looking for a way to save money, renting can help make your business more viable in the long run. And when you pay attention to the details, success is often possible.

Images source: Pexels




The Process of Importing Household Goods Into Costa Rica

The Process of Importing Household Goods Into Costa Rica

December 20, 2022

Properties in Costa Rica

Moving to Costa Rica is more common than you know. The affordable living costs and stunning scenery make it an excellent destination for retirees and adventurous Americans looking for a change. Many are willing to trade their U.S. lifestyle for a beachfront property in Costa Rica. And the shift towards remote work and hybrid workplaces gives people the freedom to hold on to their jobs and live anywhere they want.

But relocating to Costa Rica isn’t always as easy as it seems. Like all international moves, it requires understanding customs regulations on both sides of the border. However, if you’re considering a move, there are a couple of things to know about shipping items to Costa Rica and claiming them without breaking the bank.

Claiming Household Goods Across the Border

Costa Rica allows people to bring various household items and belongings into the country. However, once you exceed a value of $500, you may have to pay a duty tax on anything extra. It’s important to know this when planning a move and calculating your budget.

Furthermore, while you can move to Costa Rica with a wide range of personal household items, not everything can make it past the border. Some electronics and larger appliances can be restricted in Costa Rica. At the very least, importing them will require more detailed documentation like commercial receipts, lading bills, etc.

Naturally, you should also present a detailed inventory of your household goods and other personal belongings. Costa Rican customs officers often require that the brand name, serial number, and declared value accompany the electronics. Often, insurance documents are necessary for larger appliances.

As you can tell, importing household goods into Costa Rica doesn’t have the easiest bureaucracy and logistics. 

How to Ship Household Goods to Costa Rica

Once you know what you want to bring, it’s time to consider transportation options. Although Costa Rica is relatively close to the U.S., road-tripping would be arduous. You’d have to clear too many border crossings, travel in a large vehicle, and be on the road for days if you drive non-stop. Otherwise, you’re looking at a couple of weeks on the road.

That’s why using professional movers is the best way to go. If you’re unfamiliar with international moving companies, you can find more information here https://threemovers.com/costa-rica-international-moving-companies/ about contacting and coordinating with international movers.

But here’s something you need to know.

You can import household goods into Costa Rica via land, air, and sea. Land transportation typically involves loading your items in the back of a truck or van and driving them to the desired pickup spot in Costa Rica.

Air shipping is arguably the fastest way to transport cargo from the U.S. and elsewhere in the world to Costa Rica. But air transportation is expensive, has more complex logistics, and won’t always deliver your cargo to a convenient location.

Shipping household goods via ocean freight is another handy option when moving high-volume cargo.

What to Expect in Terms of Cost Breakdowns

Every shipping company uses its own formula to determine the cost of shipping cargo from point A to B. Factors that usually influence the price include the following:

  • Distance
  • Weight
  • Time of the year or season
  • Extra services

What to Know About Popular Shipping Methods

Two methods of transport stand out as the best options for moving household goods to Costa Rica. You can choose between sea and land shipping.

Shipping Household Goods in Containers

A 20-square-foot container, considered one of the smaller sizes, is often enough to stuff all the contents of an average household. And if you don’t need that much space, you can opt for a Less Than Container Load or LCL shipping option. That means you can share the container space with another customer and reduce your expenses.

But it would be best to remember that shipping anything via ocean freight takes time. It’s the slowest shipping method after road and rail freight. That said, it’s an excellent option if you have plenty of time to schedule in advance.

You can also choose this option if you move close to a port or want a safer shipping process.

Shipping Household Goods via Land Freight

With land shipping, you have two choices. You can bring items into Costa Rica via freight trains or trucks. Just because you don’t want to take a long road trip doesn’t mean there aren’t drivers who will do it for you.

And given Costa Rica’s popularity among expats, you can quickly find moving trucks for the U.S. – Costa Rica route.

Should You Ship Household Goods to Costa Rica?

Few people relocate to Costa Rica just with clothes on their backs. Many want to bring useful household goods, appliances, and personal belongings. But what is worth shipping to Costa Rica, given the many customs duty taxes you may have to pay?

You can find much of what you need to furnish a home in Costa Rica. Thus, it’s tempting to leave some of your belongings behind, donate, or sell them before moving. But you may find that some of the appliances and electronics you need are more expensive in Costa Rica due to commercial import taxes.

Consider bringing your computer, phones, small kitchen appliances, and similar items with you. Furthermore, you may bring over-the-counter and prescription medication. 

As for furniture and other household items, you could elect to buy something new once you relocate to Costa Rica. Usually, it’s not always worth shipping unless you have a vintage or personalized item you can’t replace. 

Shipping With Experts Is the Best Option

Simplifying the moving process comes down to using professional international shippers to oversee and manage the transportation of your household goods. Experienced shippers and movers know how to pack various items, how to fill out the paperwork, and what customs expenses to pay.

They can also find the best transport method and route based on your unique requirements. If you want to take the same route as many other expats, planning your move in advance and coordinating with international shippers can make the process less stressful.




How Thanksgiving is celebrated in Costa Rica!

How Thanksgiving is celebrated in Costa Rica!

November 24, 2022

Properties in Costa Rica

Thanksgiving has arrived and for many decades, it has been a holiday that has been celebrated greatly in Costa Rica given the large number of ex-pats living over here. Slowly but surely, the essence of the autumn harvest has been incorporated in many ‘Tico’s’ home but in a rather tropicalized fashion (fresh fruits & vegetables of the season).

If you are planning a visit to Costa Rica around these dates, we got you covered because there are many traditional Thanksgiving activities you can do. In the capital, San José, or popular beach towns like Jacó or Tamarindo, several restaurants have made it easy to enjoy a typical Thanksgiving dinner for example.

Roast turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole and of course, amazing apple pie is just a few of the staples that you will find for just about 20 US dollars. Some people even opt for a cheaper ‘Costa Rican’ version of the Thursday dinner if you will by substituting the turkey for chicken and buying some fresh sweet potatoes and herbs from the

farmer’s market to make a delightful stuffing. Also, another pro-tip if you are wanting to keep your costs on the low is to switch pumpkin pie for ‘ayote’, which is basically a squash that is similar to pumpkin in both flavor and color.

This November period is also great in terms of weather, with the rainy season coming to an end and the start of one of the lowest temperatures of the year (ranging from high 70s to low 80s). The breeze from the ocean and the beautiful food is just a perfect combination to enhance the celebration of the holiday with family and friends.

It’s important to remember that even though it is a national day in the US, it is not a paid holiday here in Costa Rica.

Undoubtably, with the amazing food experience, remember to keep an eye for online and store discounts for Black Friday and the shipping deals and discounts from Aerocasillas and Mailboxes in case you feel like buying something from US retailers.

Whether you want to spend November 24 th relaxed on the beach or zip-lining through the forest, there are plenty of options available to help you make of this day an unforgettable experience filled with thankfulness and appreciation.

As always, thank you for reading,

Properties in Costa Rica 🇨🇷




Costa Rica wins Wanderlust award for Most Desirable Country of 2022!

Costa Rica wins Wanderlust award for Most Desirable Country of 2022!

November 23, 2022

Properties in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has been for a long time a destination that attracts millions of tourists on a regular basis and this year, it is no surprise that this beautiful country has been crowned as “The Most Desirable Country of 2022” in the Wanderlust Travel Awards taking place in the Tower of London. 

Received by William Rodríguez, Costa Rica’s Minister of Tourism, and other Costa Rican Tourism Institute representatives, this award is truly a reflection of the hard work that is put in year after year by all Costa Rican citizens (specially those involved in Touristic activities). In order to win the gold category for “best desirable country”, Costa Rica had to go past other big finalists such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, United States, Japan, Peru, Jordan, and South Africa. To be involved in a ceremony hosted by one of UK’s most established travel magazines (Wanderlust) speaks highly of the way in which tourism is handled in the country, especially when it comes to Costa Rica’s position as a leader in responsible and sustainable practices. 

In fact, an important part of the ceremony was dedicated to highlight Costa Rica for being a pioneer in the field of ecotourism, knowing well that the development and implementation of these practices are essential to the world as a response to the ever-growing climate change issues we’re all facing. The discussion of these topics along with the back and forth that takes place in an event such as this ultimately benefits everyone, given that both Costa Rica and other countries implementing ecotourism can feed of each other’s trial and errors and hopefully strive for better and more successful practices. 

Costa Rica has now established itself as a distinguished place for traveling and through its years of experience it has developed a system that is now being properly rewarded in the international stage. Be it pristine beaches, more than 500.000 animal species, active volcanoes, or simply it’s amazing people, you can be sure that booking a flight and experiencing for yourself the wonders of the ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle is a great vacation idea. 

As always, thank you for reading,

Properties in Costa Rica 🇨🇷

Photo: El Observador

References: 

  1. TCRN Staff (Ed.) (2022, November 10). Costa Rica Won the Award for “The Most Desirable Country of 2022” in a Special Ceremony at London. Retrieved November 21, 2022, from https://thecostaricanews.com/costa-rica-won-the-award-for-the-most-desirable-country-of-2022-in-a-special-ceremony-at-london



Turtle nesting season in Costa Rica! 🐢

Turtle nesting season in Costa Rica! 🐢

November 15, 2022

Properties in Costa Rica

November has arrived and this means that we are going to start witnessing the arrival of hundreds of thousands of beautiful olive ridley Turtles in the Ostional Wildlife Refuge shores of Costa Rica. Why are they arriving you ask? Well, ‘arribadas’ start to reach these sectors of Costa Rica in the beginning September until December due to its optimal conditions for nesting and laying their eggs. The incubation period lasts around 100 days in the dark warm sand and typically, these mesmerizing animals arrive at night and when they come, they come in volumes, with records that register over a hundred thousand turtles only in one night!

The process that these turtles have to go through is truly admirable and to experience their hard work in person is a sight in itself. To be able to witness such a spectacle, it is important to note that since 1984, this land has been protected by the Ostional Wildlife Refuge which helps preserve the 15 km of beach territory from poachers that plan to steal the eggs for commercial purposes. The protection and conservation of these animals is crucial and for that reason, tourist access is also restricted by the SINAC (National System of Conservation Areas) in order to avoid other problems such as the use of white flashlights or excessive noises that ultimately disorient the turtles and complicates their nesting process. 

But don’t worry, if you truly want to experience the turtle nesting in a respectful manner as a tourist, what you have to do is reserve with anticipation and contact one of the several guides that work with the SINAC to ensure the health and safety of the animals (remember: if you are calling from the US, the country number extension for Costa Rica is +506).

If you have the opportunity and are visiting the Guanacaste regions of Costa Rica, don’t miss out on the chance of seeing these wonderful scenes in person! 

 As always, thank you for reading and we’ll catch you in the next one. 

Properties in Costa Rica 🇨🇷

References

1. CostaRica.Org (Ed.). (2018, December 5). Playa Ostional en Guancaste Costa Rica. CostaRica.Org. Retrieved November 15, 2022, from https://costarica.org/es/playas/guanacaste/ostional/ 




Housing opportunities in Costa Rica! 👀

Housing opportunities in Costa Rica! 👀

October 7, 2022

Properties in Costa Rica

The current United States and global economic market is having a rough time after the Covid pandemic and more importantly the increasing pressure of inflation and interest spikes. Needless to say, the housing market has also been affected by this context, with rising mortgages and inventory shortages making it truly hard to invest in a home in the United States.

Pros on the subject insist on the fact that elevated home prices are here to stay because of the combination of high demand and elevated mortgage rates, resulting in dreadful scenario for potential buyers.

The good news is that there are other investment options out there, more specially located abroad, in Central America.

We all know that this small country has a high touristic attraction but what about its housing options? Given the uncertainty and unrest regarding home investment in the US, Costa Rica has now become a more viable option, with places such as Guanacaste, Jacó, Atenas, Grecia and Dominical gaining lots of attraction as places for retiring comfortably at a discounted price (as low as USD $50,000 for a decent home in certain areas). Additionally, a huge plus for those looking to swoop a house in the Guanacaste region is the recently renovated Liberia airport, which allows travelers a more direct access to these locations. The key takeaway here is that buyers are now comparing similar beachfront estates in California and Costa Rica and are seeing a drastic difference in value, resulting in a noticeable shift towards investment in the Central America gem.

Also, quality of life here in Costa Rica is known to be a guarantee. With impeccable all year-round breezy climate, kind and loving people, lower home taxes, and of course, stupendous beaches only 45 minutes away from the capital, you won’t miss a thing once you arrive and settle up.

As always, thank you for reading, catch you guys in the next one.

Properties in Costa Rica 🏡🇨🇷

References:

  1. Delmendo, Lalaine. (09/11/2019). Costa Rica’s thriving housing market. Retrieved 10/07/2022, from:  https://www.globalpropertyguide.com/Latin-America/Costa-Rica/Price-History
  2. Popescu, Roxana. (03/20/2022). House Hunting in Costa Rica: Pools, Ponds and a Glassy Heart Near San José. 10/07/2022, from:   https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/30/realestate/costa-rica-house-hunting.html



Costa Rica’s independence!

Costa Rica’s independence!

September 12, 2022

Properties in Costa Rica

September 15th is a special time for Ticos and Central America. What for, you ask? Well, this date marks the anniversary of the country’s independence, a very important period in its wonderful history. Dancing, school activities, and splendid food is enjoyed as a way of honoring the country’s most authentic patriotic traditions.

Even though it is a very fun and uniting time of the year, Costa Rica’s independence from Spain back in 1821 was not a simple affair, as a matter of fact, it was really until 1838 that Costa Rica became truly independent and that was when it parted ways with the Federation Republic of Central America.  Despite this, Costa Rican citizens still celebrate September 15th and recognize the significance of Central America’s victory.  One of the most important traditions that unites these countries is in fact the Torch Run, starting September 9th in Guatemala, where the Freedom Torch is carried throughout and arrives in Costa Rica to culminate the September 15th Independence Day celebrations.

Parades around the Costa Rican territory are a must, specifically those performed by regional school students. Be it dance or raising the flag routines, the streets are filled with people, especially when it’s time to sing the beautiful national anthem (at precisely 6:00 pm). Of course, there are tons of traditional foods available, ranging from ‘Gallo Pinto’ to ‘Fried Yuca and Plantain’ or if you’re feeling something sweet, ‘Arroz con Leche’ or Rice Pudding. 🤤

All these celebrations are widely available and free to the public, so if you are planning a visit to Costa Rica, follow the beat of the drums and lyres on September 15th and come enjoy the Folkloric shows, typical dancing and music that best represent Costa Rica’s values and traditions. 🇨🇷

Thank you for reading, catch you in the next one.

– Properties in Costa Rica.




13 Smart Real Estate Investing Tips from Successful Investors

13 Smart Real Estate Investing Tips from Successful Investors

September 9, 2022

Properties in Costa Rica

As the pandemic peaked and businesses stopped, many experts said that the real estate market would be one of the last to return to normal. After the pandemic, it surprised everyone with how well it had done.

The road to wealth is frequently meandering and investing in real estate does not come with a map. However, you can take steps to set yourself up for success and place yourself on the correct path. A wonderful place to start is by paying attention to the best tips for investing in real estate from experts and prosperous investors.

We got thirteen property investment advice or tips from professionals in the industry. It doesn’t matter if you are new to the industry or buying your third rental property, you must follow these steps to succeed in this industry or get a property investment service. Without further ado, let us get started.

Why Invest in Real Estate?

Risk and preparation are involved in real estate investing, but the payoff can be substantial. Some of the most compelling arguments in favor of buying property are listed here. (Remember, growth in value and income is not assured. The more you know about the houses and areas you are considering, the better your odds of making a profit). Here are a few reasons people invest in real estate.

Continual Cash Flow

Owning a property increases what you receive monthly. It does not matter if you want to invest in a commercial or residential area, the potentials are high. You can lease your property to tenants. You get rent payments monthly.

Excessive Profit

You can sell your rental properties for significant profit if their value rises with time. You must choose the right real estate business to get those high profits.

Stability over Time

You can hold a property for several years while waiting for it to appreciate because it is a long-standing investment. As you wait for the property’s value to increase, you may also make a monthly income by renting out your real estate.

Tip 1 – Find rental homes in areas that are growing

Rental properties are a fantastic way to become engaged with real estate investments. Look for them in new neighborhoods. Developing communities provide tax breaks and room for growth for prospective buyers. Those who invest in real estate in upcoming areas increase their profits and ensure their revenue matches their costs.

Tip 2 – Diversify your investment portfolio

People often say that the best property to invest in is the one you already own. Even though it is essential to know the area where you are investing, you limit your opportunities to make money when you look for small areas.

If you think about investing in other cities and states, you will have a broader range of options and, in the end, better chances. Investing in a wide area also gives you more ways to spread out your money and protects your portfolio from the fluctuation of local markets.

Tip 3 – Don’t overstretch yourself

You can be highly profitable for an extended period and still go bankrupt if each rental is heavily mortgaged. You will have a decent mix of safety and stretching resources if you maintain some of your rental homes for free. If you execute it correctly, a few longer-than-expected openings or cash flow dips do not have to spell the end of your career.

Tip 4 – Conduct your research

Your reputable and compensated experts may advise you to avoid holding real estate in your portfolio altogether in many situations. They frequently offer the same stale justifications, such as being “illiquid” or “very management-intensive.” Depending on your circumstances, they may have merit, but that is not the primary justification they want you to avoid real estate.

You do not pay stockbrokers to invest in real estate. They have no incentive, no commissions, and no work to do. That is, except they wish for you to buy a pricey, non-traded REIT, in which case you will immediately understand their genuine motives. You must conduct your own research to determine the future cash flow in the real estate industry.

Tip 5 – Consider renting a single-family home

Your best chance of finding the right tenant is with single-family homes. Everyone would like to have a home of their own. Some people cannot or do not want to own property.

Tip 6 – Have several escape routes in mind

Another tips for investing in real estate is to never purchase a home unless you have several departure options. Consider flipping as an example. By purchasing properties with substantial quality numbers, you can reduce your risk factors if you are starting or do not have much spare money.

If you are investing in flips and the market collapses, but the property might generate a negative or level cash flow if rented out, you will lose a lot of money. You can either create wealth by maintaining them as rentals or reduce your risks when things go wrong by flipping starter homes.

Tip 7 – Contact escrow to complete your deal

When you start escrow, the deal is not yet finalized. If you are purchasing off-market, the seller may be a little worried about the transaction and if everyone involved is a real estate agent.

Introduce yourself and let them understand that you will draft the paperwork as soon as the escrow/title firm contacts them. The seller will feel more secure because of the third-party confirmation.

Set the anticipation up front that you would check in on the situation regularly during the escrow term and be sure to do so.

Tip 8 – Learn about your market

It is crucial to research and get expertise in your chosen market before making a real estate investment. You can recognize the current market situation and make plans if you are well-informed on current trends, including any drops or gains in average rent, crime rates, income, and interest rates.

Constantly estimating and anticipating market changes will make you a more successful real estate investor.

Tip 9 – Expect vacancies

You want to prevent a vacancy gap in your cash flow unless you have significant finances. The only way to achieve this is to add it to the cost of transporting the asset. Most property owners must assume that not every month of the year will bring in money.

For some, that translates into a 2% decrease in sales, while for others, it may represent a 10% decline. The trick is to evaluate the property and the renter type and then account for the revenue shortfall you should anticipate yearly.

Tip 10 – Think about investing in non-traditional real estate

Never forget that buying single-family houses or apartment complexes can both be profitable real estate investments. You might make investments in warehouses, industrial space, storage facilities, and office buildings. These all bring in rental income.

With a triple-net lease, where the tenant is responsible for basic insurance and paying the property taxes and upkeep, you might be able to lower total costs when renting offices and industrial facilities. Your investment then generates consistent cash flow with minimal out-of-pocket costs.

Tip 11 – Think of your investments as businesses.

Investing in real estate is a business; like any other business, it needs to be carefully planned, carried out, and managed. People who are good at every level run the best companies. It is one property investing tips you should never forget as a newbie.

Those who do not realize this will have trouble or even fail. No matter how big or small you want to do your real estate investment service, you must run it like a business to succeed.

Tip 12 – Create a budget and a timetable 

A general rule of thumb to apply if you are a new investor is to reserve at least 50% of your budget. When you renovate properties, one problem can often lead to another, and your expense usually ends up being greater than you had planned.

A leaky pipe, for instance, might need to be replaced, the mold damage cleaned up, and the drywall replaced. The same rule applies regarding timeline: if you have a 60-day deadline, plan on the project taking 90 days. Additional costs result in additional time.

Tip 13 – Buy cheap

A dividend-paying stock and real estate investing are comparable. The return on investment depends on how inexpensive you purchased the item. However, you must consider the return on investment. 

You can spend little money to purchase a modest home in a dangerous area, but you will not make much money from it either. Therefore, focus on acquiring land or an off plan rather than a house. As the year progresses, you buy cheaply, save money, and get more.

Conclusion

Those who are serious about their financial futures would consider real estate an efficient portfolio. One of the best ways to get the financial independence you want is to become a successful real estate investor.

Real estate investing tends to yield more cash flow than the stock market. However, you must exercise caution and listen to real estate investment advice from professionals. With these tips for investing in real estate, you can get started without becoming a statistic of those who have filed for bankruptcy.

Author Name: Liran Koren




8 World-Known Costa Rican Writers

8 World-Known Costa Rican Writers

September 5, 2022

Properties in Costa Rica

Based on our research for this article and many writing reviews from the custom service Best Essay Education, the majority of Costa Rican writers dedicated their whole lives to fighting for human rights, women’s rights, their freedom, and a better place to live in.

Thanks to a bigger impact on different audiences, Costa Rican writers had a very important task to spread their culture and traditions all over the world via their writings, to get the world acquainted with their lifestyle, and to save these writings as a history of their nation. Further, we are going to make you familiar with the most outstanding past and current Costa Rican writers who spent their entire life spreading the word about their native land.

Carmen Lyra

Carmen Lyra, which is not the real name of this writer, has become the first worldwide known and popular writer that comes from Costa Rica. Carmen had a very challenging path to build a face in the world of literature. From an early age, she was a teacher and had the opportunity to publish some articles in local newspapers. In her native country, she couldn’t develop her knowledge and skills, so she went to England to continue her education as a teacher, growing her outlook and meeting popular writers. Carmen was writing novels and tales primarily for kids, where one of the most known books has become Cuentos de mi tía Panchita – the collection of tales and short stories for kids published in 1920.

Carlos Luis Fallas

Carlos Luis Fallas is included in the list of the most globally popular Costa Rican writers of the 20th century. The writer was a multifaceted personality who became an outstanding contributor to Costa Rican politics as well as literature. The majority of novels written and published by Carlos, among which are Mamita Yunai and Gente y gentecillas are based on his own life experience where he tells about the hardest and the most successful periods of his life.

Alda Facio

Alda Facio is a widely known public figure from Costa Rica who has been fighting for women’s rights for her entire life. She became an important person in canceling violent laws applied to women in numerous countries in the world. Her writings are surely dedicated to investigating the rights of women and humans overall and were mostly published in newspapers or thematic magazines to reach a broader audience. She wasn’t afraid to judge the Costa Rican law system and tried to do her best to change it and provide the inhabitants of Costa Rica with more freedom in different areas of life.

Quince Duncan

Quince Duncan has become the first globally popular Afro-Caribbean writer that comes from Costa Rica. Despite the challenges he met living in the east of Costa Rica, Quince was always focused on his education and personal development. He tried numerous professions like a teacher, scholar, and priest but finally decided to stop in the writing sphere. Talking about the specifics of his writings, he was keen on writing short stories mostly based on true information about the citizens of his native city, its traditions, culture, people, etc. He aimed to share the ancient history of his nation with the entire world.

Eunice Odio

Eunice Odio is a Costa Rican writer whose main specialization is poetry. Her poems describe everything that happened to her during her life. The writer has changed numerous places of living in the search of inspiration. Born in Costa Rica, she became a journalist and decided to spend several years in Guatemala and then the USA. Thanks to her connection with local newspapers, lots of her poems were published in different editions, which made her a globally popular writer. The constant change of locations and traveling was her primary inspiration to write poems and tell people the truth about the countries she used to live in.

Fabian Dobles

Fabian Dobles is a writer from Costa Rican who managed to combine different spheres of activities including writing, politics, and social movements. By using his novels, he tried to tell the wealthy politicians and people from other countries about the poverty in Costa Rica, how people suffered and what help they need from the government and the entire world. His writing was dedicated to criticizing the current government and its attitude to the simple working class.

Luis Chaves

Luis Chaves is related to the modern flow of Costa Rican art and literature. Due to numerous reviews from the writing service Trust My Paper, this Costa Rican writer is supposed to be the most successful and globally known novelist, whose writings have been spread across various countries. Luis has changed to numerous countries and continents for the purpose of looking for inspiration and sharing his art and his culture with others by translating his writing into different languages including English, German, Spanish, and others. Thus, his novels were recognized and awarded by the National Poetry Prize and Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio de Ascoli Piceno.

Carlos Salazar

Herrera Carlos Salazar Herrera is another great Costa Rican writer who had to make much effort to become a popular writer. From early childhood, he was sending lots of his novels to different publishing houses, editors, and newspapers to get the opportunity to share his art with others. Thanks to his hard work, he succeeded to develop his writing hobby into a real profession, where he became a professor of writing at a certain Costa Rican university to share his skills and knowledge with students who are keen on writing. Carlos dedicated his entire life to writing and sharpening this skill.

To end up

We tried to include the writers from the past as well as the present to show how Costa Rican literature changed and what goals the writers were following. Hope our compilation inspired you to learn more about Costa Rica and its rich culture from the great novels and poems of Costa Rican popular writers.

Written by Lafond Wanda



Google+ Facebook Linkedin Youtube Twitter Blog Instagram