Properties in Costa Rica Blog

The US election this year has been like no other election in history. The whole world watched a knock down drag down fight between two unlikely opponents. For the Republicans, Donald Trump ascended from a splintered party divided into factions to win the party nomination. Hillary Clinton won the Democratic party’s nomination. Hillary Clinton has always been the favored candidate but no one anticipated the rise of populist and nationalistic fervor that has seized the nation. With many people holding their breath, (too many), it appears the fate of the USA and the world hangs in the balance. Will Hillary Clinton win the election to become the first female President of the USA? It’s the question many people are asking themselves right now.

This election is a battle between a newcomer and an old pro. Donald Trump, a real estate mogul turned reality star emanates the 21st Century demagogue. A master of ceremonies and power broker, he is not a career politician. Hillary Clinton has been involved in US politics since her husband, Bill Clinton won the election in 1992. The Clintons have gone on to become one of the most powerful couples in the history of United States. The election has broken down into a nasty fight between these two diametrically opposed interest groups. With many of the disenfranchised people in the US supporting Trump, while urbanites and the professional class support Hillary Clinton. A clear division has emerged in the US as a result of this election. It is symbolic of a larger struggle between globalization and nationalistic forces around the world. As we saw with BREXIT, many now fear the election of Trump will mark a frightening retreat into nationalism in the USA.

Meanwhile, Hillary Clinton would be the first lady in US history to become President. The election of Clinton would symbolize a significant historical moment. Reminiscent of the Suffragists who marched down the streets demanding the right to vote over 100 years ago dressed in white, Hillary Clinton has also been spotted wearing white on many occasions. While she does not have the charisma of Barack Obama or Bill Clinton, people who work with her have called her a pragmatist who gets things done. She has been surrounded by controversy the entire election. We suspect women will be the deciding factor. All eyes are on the USA today as its citizens vote.

One thing is for certain, it promises to be a close race as battleground states such as Pennsylvania will be the deciding factor. People will likely wait until the early morning hours to find out who will become the next President of United States. We will soon know the results of this historic US election. The world awaits to see the fate of the nation that will have a long-term impact on the fate of the whole world.

The magic of the Costa Rican lifestyle is being discovered by people from all over the world, recent graduates, retirees, and families included. The laid back lifestyle found here is desired by many, but possibly even more desirable are the tax advantages of living here.

Income Taxes

Here only those earnings made by an individual within Costa Rica are subject to taxes. This means income taxes concern only those who have a job or business in the country. Please note, that a vacation home rental is considered a business and will be prone to taxation. Pensioners, social security collectors, freelancers, telecommunicators, and online business owners all have the advantage of not having to pay taxes on their income. Those individuals working in Costa Rica must pay a 15% progressive tax based on their monthly earnings. The tax is levied on both employment source income and non-employment source income. For self employed parties the taxes are anywhere between 10 and 25%.

Business’s income tax is determined on the difference between the gross income and allowable deductions. For businesses making under $25,000 the rate is 10%, under 50,000 is 20%, and more than 50,000 is 30%. Businesses in free trade areas are exempt from paying taxes.

Sales Tax

When a property is purchased there is a 1.5% transfer tax on the value of real estate purchased, typically paid by the purchaser. This tax must be paid at any point where the property is transferred to a new owner. Sales tax is 13% and is levied both at importation and at the sale. It is levied on all goods with the exception of food products, medical products, and a number of other items. Sales tax must be collected by all business owners from their customers and transferred to the government.

In Costa Rica investors are exempt from paying capital gains taxes on real estate investments. Costa Rica has the maximum tax rate set around 30 percent with no city or state taxes and low property taxes.

When to Pay?

Taxes are assessed provisionally based on the previous year’s results and payable each quarter. The fiscal year runs from Oct 1 to September 30th of the next year. The balance of due taxes is then payable on December 31st.

While Costa Rica has excellent tax regulations in place, US citizens are required to pay income taxes wherever they are living. US income tax returns must be filed yearly through the American Embassy. All income earned abroad must be declared, but you can claim a tax exemption up to $78,000 on foreign-earned gross income. Married couples can claim up to $144,000 of foreign income, but you cannot combine the two exemptions. While this may be a downer, the US gives all citizens living abroad a 2 month extension to file their taxes. Be sure to contact your account for further information and help in ensuring you file your taxes properly.

“Look at a tree, a flower, a plant. Let your awareness rest upon it. How still they are, how deeply rooted in Being. Allow nature to teach you stillness.“– Eckhart Tolle

This week Costa Rica has been lucky to host, Eckhart Tolle, one of the most well known and spiritually influential men in the world. He has come here along with Kim Eng to hold a week long “Deepening Presence” retreat at Playa Conchal. What better place to come to learn to be present, completely in the moment than this country Eckhart regards as a “portal to presence“. With miles and miles of rich coastline, pristine forests, peaceful people, it’s hard not to see the attraction of Costa Rica.

For years this country has been a well known spot for yoga and meditation retreats. For others just coming to explore the beauty here is enough to put the mind at peace. It’s hard not to relax in a place like this, waking up to howl of monkey or singing birds and going to sleep to the sounds of crashing waves. In the tiny towns that line the coast or surround the volcanoes you find children playing in the streets and grandmothers in their rocking chairs sipping coffee enjoying all of the noises of nature. It’s hard not to adapt.

Back home we have become a society accustomed to overstimulation. Controlled by the ringing phones, constant notifications from this app or another, and the feeling of constantly need something to occupy our attention. Meditation however is the complete opposite. It is about being in the moment, absorbing the thoughts, feelings, sounds of everything around you, but just letting them pass through.

Just a few minutes of meditation a day has proven to show increased happiness, decreased stress, more self-awareness, and many physical health benefits. Now imagine if we learned to live our whole lives in a meditative state. The natural beauty of Costa Rica can help us achieve the mindset need to live this lifestyle. This environment is so conducive to lead a peaceful life.

This stunning video by filmmaker, Antoine Janssens, captures the spirit and wonder of Costa Rica. The filmmaker stated, “This film is a selection of memories during three weeks into the wild of Costa Rica in 2016. We crossed the country from north to south and east to west my girl and I. We found lots of wonderful little places along the trip, meeting friendly people and live a unique experience in the middle of wildlife.” From the video, you see the country through the eyes of a filmmaker who clearly fell in love with Costa Rica. You can see more photos of his journey on his Instagram.

With the breathtaking cinematography and the juxtaposition of the natural wonders with village life, you immediately get a visceral sense of the essence of the country. Costa Rica dances in magic. It seduces you its beauty and creates a sense of wonderment. The country’s natural rhythm is one which humans and nature live in harmony, and this short film captures that spirit. The absence of narration makes it easy to get lost in the hypnotic trance of the music. The images create a kind of dance that captures the very essence of Costa Rica.

From the oceans to the jungles to the creatures inhabiting the region to the fun and laughter experienced by the people who commingle here embracing the culture, there’s a visceral energy. Once you’re here, you never want to leave the magic. It’s a place where your soul can dance, and spirit finds its center. Costa Rica enthralls all who visit its shore. It’s a place that captures the joy and magic of life itself.

This film could easily win an award best “marketing video.” It doesn’t try to sell you anything; it just expresses the joy that the country embodies.

Kudos to the filmmaker!

1. The Surfer– You’ll find the surfer walking down street with their sunkissed hair and barefeet. What better place to move than Costa Rica, with 1,290km over costa line where there are plenty of waves to be caught.

2. The System Shocker– Had a sudden realization that he or she lives to work. Probably heard from a coworker that costa rica is so tranquilo and the perfect place to reset. Quits their job, packs their bags and buys a beautiful house with an ocean view. Has a major melt down when they just can’t adjust to tico time.

3. The Yogi– Usually found sporting mala beads discussing the next full moon ceremony or how the energy is just out of control because obviously mars is in retrograde again. In the quiet little pueblos there are plenty of great spots for meditation, not to mention the various yoga retreats and workshops spread throughout the country.

4. The Adventure Seeker– Waterfalls, Volcanoes, Ziplining, Surfing, Crocodiles… What more could the adventure seeker ask for?

5. The Cool Parents– Thinking a bilingual school would give their kids a great advantage in life, they didn’t realize Costa Rica had so much more to offer. Their kids now spend hours playing with friends on the beach, admiring nature, instead of staring at tvs like zombies.

6. The Spanish Learner– Hola, tacos and dos cervezas porfavor was their solid spanish base, but after 6 months of sleeping with the dictionary you’d think they were fluent.

7. The Artist– Often found sitting at their desk with the sounds of crashing waves in the background, scribbling away for their latest novel, the artist is at home in this peaceful country. With all of the diversity it’s hard not to find inspiration all around.

8. The Retiree– Did you know foreign pensioners don’t pay taxes on this income? With this advantage it is easy to see why Costa Rica has a growing community of retirees. Less taxes equals more Imperial to drink.

9. The Lost One– Not knowing where to go or what to do the lost one end up in Costa Rica with no prior knowledge of the country. Immediately falling in love with the surrounds the first month is a dream, that is until they start running out of money and have to figure out what to do. They realize Costa Rica hasn’t suddenly found them and taught them what to do with their life. The next week they are back on the plane just as lost as they came here.

10. The One That Got Stuck– Maybe they came here on a two week vacation or to learn a new language, but somehow 5 years later they’re still here. This is a common story here, there is something magical about Costa Rica. It gives so many people a feeling of freedom and contentment that they can’t get enough.

One of the most exclusive and diverse communities in Costa Rica, Hacienda Pinilla, has something to offer everyone. Sitting on 4,500 acres of historic farm property, Pinilla stretches over three miles of pristine coastline nestled in by five distinct beaches (Playa Avellanas, Robalo, Mansita, Bonita, and Langosta). Below are just a few of the amenities Hacienda Pinilla has to offer.

JW Marriott

Hacienda Pinilla boasts the only JW Marriott Hotel in Costa Rica with the largest pool in all of Central America. There you’ll find an internationally acclaimed spa and 5 different restaurants featuring cuisine from around the globe. Whether vacationing or having friends and family down to visit, the JW Marriott is the place to stay.

Mountain Biking

Hear the songs of exotic birds and the crashing of waves as the 2 mountain bike paths guide you through the 4,500 acre property, one for amateurs and the other for professional riders. Get your sweat on while riding through the bountiful nature at Hacienda Pinilla.

Golfing

The golf course at Hacienda Pinilla was designed to preserve and enhance the ecological balance of this area. On this par 72 course, with nearly 7,200 yards playing space, you will have the chance to enjoy the extraordinary nature and beautiful beach views Pinilla has to offer.

The Beach Club

The Beach Club at Hacienda Pinilla has everything for days of enjoyment. rom the open air dining to the gnarly waves every member of your family will find something to do. The Beach Club features an incredible infinity pool, a tiki bar, a rejuvenating spa, snorkeling, surfing, a delicious dining spot, and a beachfront fitness center.

Stables

Whether you are looking for a romantic adventure or family fun time, Hacienda Pinilla’s Stables has you covered. With sixteen kilometers of scenic trails be sure not to miss out on this exciting tour. Trotting through natural forest and countryside you’ll experience Pinilla in a whole new light.

Be sure not to miss your opportunity to be apart of the Hacienda Pinilla lifestyle. With a multitude of properties, beachfront homes, luxury villas, hotels, and lots for development, there is something here for everyone.

When you land in a new country, the excitement of all the new adventures you will experience create a type of honeymoon phase. Every cork about the country puts a smile on your face. For some, the charm never wears off, but for others all of these difference settle in and become overwhelming. This is a normal reaction to everything being different.

When many foreigners move to a new country, they bail before the end of the first year, returning to their home country. Yearning for the comforts of home, they suffer from the grass is always greener on the other side syndrome. If you’ve recently moved to Costa Rica or a similar country from a major western metropolitan center than you can probably relate to the feeling of culture shock that settles in after the initial wonder wanes.

Here are some of the challenges and how to embrace the pura vida:

Culture Shock

At first the disco music in the grocery store may have been cute and the long bank lines charming, but after a while you begin to wonder, “what have I done?“. For the majority of expats there will come a moment when they become aware of everything their new country lacks. All the quirks and blemishes become apparent. The honeymoon is over. It’s time to assimilate and adjust. This part of the journey is really about changing your mindset. You may go through a period of homesickness. Suddenly, 60-hour work weeks and being behind on your mortgage doesn’t seem that awful. What’s the world without a little stress to motivate you, right? Calm down, take a deep breath, this state of mind will pass, if you let it. Try remember why you initial enjoyed or smiled at the aspects you now deem flaws. Every place has its good and bad, happiness is a mindset.

Language

Many people expect to pick up the language fast, however, this is a difficult feat. Trying to communicate in English and the few words of Spanish you’ve managed to pick up over the year becomes tiring. Take a step back and change your strategy. Join a Spanish class or find a Tico to engage in language exchange, push yourself to engage the cashier at the grocery store, or watch the evening news in Spanish. The opportunities to improve are endless and the satisfaction of holding conversations in your new language are priceless.

Property

Worried about jumping the gun and purchasing the wrong property? Take a year and rent a house or condo before taking this leap. Spend time researching the property values, and if possible, live in the country for a year and rent first before buying a home. This way you get to know the different areas and true market values. While Costa Rica is a tiny country, the diversity in areas makes it possible for everyone to find their nitch. To avoid the mistake of purchasing an overpriced condo with high HOA fees or overlooking building restrictions, consult and work with a reputable broker and attorney.

Community

Get involved in the local community. Find a new interest, surfing, diving, fishing, yoga, salsa will all allow you to make more friends. Adjusting to a new community takes time, you are essentially rebuilding your life. You have the control to live how you desire.

With time your feeling of “what was I thinking” will wear off. You will return to loving your new life. It’s all what you make of it. Moving to another country is a big leap for anyone but don’t give up. When approached with an open mind, it can be the start of an exciting new life chapter. Always remember you came here for a reason, whatever it may have been.

Costa Rica is known for its sustainable initiatives and for having a lifestyle which is close to nature.  Throughout the country one will find 27 protected national parks, with wild secondary and primary rainforest, mangrove lined waterways and protected cloud forests.  Solar powered homes, fresh water sources, organic farming and off the grid land parcels, make up a variety of properties which are integrated into the local communities. The country is one of the first in the world with the goal of carbon neutrality and residents share like-mindedness toward conservation of the countries natural beauty.

In July and August of 2016, Costa Rica ran on 100% renewable energy from a combination of hydro-electric power, wind, solar, and geothermal. Homes which are living off the grid are becoming an easier and more economic option with constantly evolving energy storage and institutional support. The movement towards living in an ecologically sustainable way dominates much of the country’s culture and community initiatives are constantly growing to meet the needs of local towns.

The options for construction of sustainable homes is also evolving, with focus on using materials like bamboo, earth and locally resourced hardwoods, optimization of natural airflow, orientation with the sunlight and minimization of toxic materials.  Building in tune with the natural forest and terrain with little impact on the surrounding ecology is not only “eco-friendly“, but it allows an owner to truly experience all the jungle flora and fauna have to offer, proving a living experience which is rarely found in this world.

Throughout the country, there are thriving sustainable communities where people can purchase land and build a home. One of the many examples is Finca Bellavista, which is a sustainable treehouse community. This is a reflection of one type of construction one can utilize here in Costa Rica.  Through the use of natural materials and focusing on the integration with nature, one creates an unforgettable retreat.  Not only that, this Finca covers 600 acres in the Southern part of Costa Rica’s lush rainforests, protecting the natural resources found within.  The best thing about Costa Rica is there are many opportunities for a private property which encompasses these same values.

For investors who see the value in protecting nature, there are properties which can generate a return.  Green hotels, yoga retreats, or eco-adventure destinations, these businesses tend to thrive in a country focused on ecotourism.  In 2015, an estimated 2 million tourists generated over $2.45 billion in revenue and accounted for 12% of the country’s GDP.  Sustainable rural tourism is an example of ecotourism which is growing in popularity due to its environmental initiatives and support of local economies.  Private wildlife refuges which can provide guests with an unforgettable experience and put them up front and center with the wildlife of Costa Rica in their natural environment are a priceless commodity in this world.

The beauty of investment in this country is; if you are looking for something that meets luxury standards while also supporting carbon neutrality, we have it. If you are looking for something a little more rustic, truly immersed in nature, you can find it here as well. Costa Rica in all its diversity supports a wide variety of preferences and lifestyles. The country and its people strive to remain in balance with the natural world and if you share this philosophy, you too will find a place in this important movement.

While moving to Costa Rica may be a dream come true, some aspects of the process can be unexpectedly daunting. You may be thinking, how am I going to get my dog or cat all the way to Costa Rica? The process is actually quite simple when broken down.

The first step to bringing your pet to Costa Rica is completing the correct documentation and vaccinations. This includes:

1. Up-to-date vaccinations against rabies and leptospirosis certified by your veterinarian.
2. An health examination and signed Federal APHIS Form 7001 by a USDA accredited veterinarian. Fees for this step can range anywhere from $40- $120 per pet. *Note that this certificate is only valid for 10 days once completed.
3. If you have decided to transport your pet by cargo (on a flight different than your own) you will need a special permit.

The next step is to find an airline. American Airlines, United, and Delta all transport animals from the US to Costa Rica. Make sure to check the specific pricing and guidelines for each airline before booking.

An alternative option, known as pet movers, is available for those who want to effortlessly transport their pets. For a price, these companies will prepare your certificates, pick up your pet, pay airline cargo charges, deal with customs, and drop them off at your new home.

Don’t have a furry friend to bring along? Consider adopting one locally! Costa Rica is notorious its beach and street dogs. Its typical to go to the beach for the day only to have a new friend follow you home. Before just adopting the dog as your own, be sure to ask around the neighborhood, as many dogs with homes roam around freely. Haven’t found any dogs in your neighborhood or just looking to visit a puppy paradise? Check out Territorio de Zaguates (Land of the Strays) in Alajuela. This dog sanctuary is home to over 900 animals so you are sure to find the perfect one, unlike any other.

The beginning of September marks the annual Whale Watching Festival in Uvita beach within Ballena National Park in Costa Rica. Uvita is a quaint fishing village in Costa Rica’s southern zone. This year marks the 7th annual festival celebrating the peak migration time of the humpback whales. The event takes place over two weekends on September 4th and 5th, and then again on September 12th and 13th. Last year 40,000 visitors flocked to the park to watch the whales and more are expected this year.

Ballena National Marine Park is a favorite whale watching spot. Covering 110 hectares of land and 5375 hectares of the ocean the reserve protects wildlife and the native habitats. The park acts as a sanctuary for whales to breed and give birth. Every year, the magnificent humpback whales arrive from July through October after making the 8,000-kilometer journey across the southern hemisphere. The whales swim north from the Antarctica to the warm waters of Golfo Dulce in Costa Rica. The warmer waters close to the equator provide that optimal habitat to mate and breed. September marks the peak of the migration along the coast of Costa Rica.

In addition to the two-hour whale watching tour, the festival offers activities such as cycling, beach volleyball, hiking, and dolphin watching. Both bottle-nose dolphins and spinner dolphins can be spotted here. There is also the opportunity to watch the legendary sea turtles including olive ridleys, green turtles, and hawksbill who travel to the beaches of Ballena to lay their eggs. The largest numbers of sea turtles make their way to shore to lay their eggs during the waning moon in September. The beaches of Ballena are not as closely monitored as some of the other more well-known beaches. The park asks visitors to be respectful if they venture out at night to catch a glimpse of this wonder of nature as the sea turtles make their way to shore.

Costa Rica is committed to protecting the biodiversity of its many species including many on the endangered species list. Due to strong international cooperation and conservation efforts, the humpback whales where recently removed from the endangered species list. More conservation efforts are needed to protect both endangered and critically endangered species. Festivals such as these aim to increase public awareness for the need for conservation and efforts to protect wildlife. Costa Rica and parks such as Ballena have also been instrumental in protecting sea turtles as well as other species.

The festival is a fantastic time to visit this preserve. Adventurers, families and wildlife enthusiasts can appreciate the laid-back, relaxed environment and rich biodiversity. With activities for adults and children to enjoy, it’s a fun family-friendly event that also provides a great opportunity for children to learn about nature, wildlife, habitats, and conservation. This weekend will be last chance to enjoy one of the spectacular two-hour boat tours to spot the majestic creatures. Tours start at 7 am.