Properties in Costa Rica Blog

Making a Costa Rica real estate investment can be a great way to secure your financial future. However, it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect your investment.

If you’re thinking about investing in Costa Rica real estate, read on to learn more about how you can protect your investment.

Understand the Local Laws and Regulations

The appeal and potential financial return of investing in real estate can be quite attractive for those looking to invest their money internationally. 

If you’re thinking about Costa Rica real estate, understanding the local laws and regulations is a must-have so that your investment stays safe. 

Knowing the country’s legal framework can help investors comprehend how assets are transferred, owned, and managed. Consulting with a legal advisor that specializes in Costa Rican law is one way to ensure your investments stay secure along with researching any relevant taxes, permits, or restrictions related to the kind of property being purchased. 

Ultimately, taking the necessary steps to understand local laws and regulations when investing in Costa Rica real estate will save you time and money.

Choose an Experienced Lawyer to Help With the Purchase

When purchasing real estate in Costa Rica, using an experienced lawyer is essential to protect your investment. Real estate law can be complex, even within a single country, so it is important to work with someone who has a thorough knowledge of both national and local regulations. 

By enlisting the services of a knowledgeable legal professional, you will ensure that the title transfer process goes smoothly and that you have all the necessary documentation to verify ownership and financing of your property. 

Furthermore, they can provide guidance on other contractual matters such as taxes or insurance to give you peace of mind when investing in Costa Rican real estate.

Consider the Rental Potential of Your Property

Whether you’re buying Costa Rica real estate as an investment or simply wanting to own a vacation home, considering the rental potential of your property is a great way to maximize your worth. 

Many people are reluctant to rent out their homes due to worry, but there are simple steps you can take to ensure your investment stays safe and sound. Property management services provide a hands-on approach for owners looking for extra protection and affordability when renting. 

By providing competent security measures like inspecting and managing tenants, property managers can give peace of mind that will guarantee the safeguarding of real estate investments. 

Taking into consideration, the advantage of renting can be highly beneficial; getting access to new and interesting tourism markets, generating reliable income streams, and benefiting from long-term capital appreciation are all valid investments that can increase your value in the long run.

Know the Risks of Property Ownership in Costa Rica

When investing in real estate in Costa Rica, it’s important to understand the associated risks. Every property has an associated legal risk and must always be evaluated by a qualified attorney to ensure that all transactions are correctly executed. 

Additionally, real estate taxes can vary widely, depending on the location and features of a property. Planning accordingly to pay existing financial obligations should be considered when making any purchase. 

Moreover, natural disasters such as floods, landslides, and hurricanes can cause damage to properties, so it’s worthwhile researching if an area is prone to such occurrences before investing in real estate there. 

Lastly, it’s always advisable to factor in potential closing costs or fees associated when purchasing a property in Costa Rica; these will ultimately add onto your investment cost and although small can sometimes make a serious difference for those with limited budgets.

The Importance of Due Diligence When Buying a Property

Buying a property in Costa Rica is an exciting prospect, however, it’s important to approach this investment with due diligence. 

Any prospective buyer should consult with legal and tax experts, as well as research the current market and non-listed opportunities. 

Additionally, surveying the zoning laws and developments of the area where you are looking to invest can offer key insights into the location’s prospects for growth. Beyond just asking questions, double-check all documents, contracts, etc., to make sure you are making a sound decision. 

Finally, it’s essential to understand all of your financing options before submitting an offer on a property in Costa Rica. 

Ultimately, if one follows this critical process of due diligence when purchasing a property in Costa Rica, one will be much more likely to secure the right property at the right price and avoid potential complications down the line.

How to Secure and Insure Your Property in Costa Rica

Securing and insuring your property in Costa Rica can seem intimidating at first, but it doesn’t have to be. With a few simple steps, you can make sure that your property is safe and properly insured. 

The first step is to invest in a good security system, such as motion sensors and an alarm system. If the property you have is not too isolated, speaking with local neighborhood watch groups can be a great way to get additional protection from break-ins or vandalism. 

As for insuring your property in Costa Rica, there are several highly rated companies that offer comprehensive insurance packages tailored to your specific needs – whether you need coverage against damage due to natural disasters or theft-related issues. 

Doing thorough research on the policies available can make sure you’re getting the most out of your investment, while also providing peace of mind.

About the author: Bianca Ward is a motivated and passionate real estate investor who has been in the business for over 10 years. She strives to build relationships with clients by talking to a stranger via video call via CallMeChat, backed by a commitment to customer service. Bianca seeks out investment opportunities that will maximize returns while minimizing risk.

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.

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/ 

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

Real estate is a popular and often safe way to start investing, and when it comes to real estate investments, a vacation home can offer a lot of personal and financial benefits. With current housing rates being at an all-time low in an incredibly active market, it may be the perfect time to consider investing in a vacation home to rent out. From creating another source of income and building equity, to simplifying your getaways and planning for retirement, owning a vacation home rental has great potential for rewards. If you’re considering adding a new property to your real estate portfolio, here are the top reasons why you should consider buying a vacation home rental as your next real estate investment.

Great Income Potential

When you buy a vacation home and rent it out, you can easily create a short-term rental revenue stream. The income from your rental home can supplement your normal salary, allowing you greater income potential. Short-term vacation rentals also typically have a higher return on investment than long-term rentals in metropolitan markets. While the cap rate for a long-term rental is usually around 4-5%, short term rentals often have a cap rate of 10% or higher, making a vacation home a potentially lucrative real estate investment.

Home Appreciation

As with most smart real estate investments, your vacation home is likely to appreciate in value over time, especially if you make smart choices when it comes to renovations and refurbishing that can increase the value of your home. That way if you do decide to eventually sell your home, you have the potential to make a hefty profit.

Personal Getaway

Owning a vacation home allows you to have your own personal getaway home. While you may want to rent your home out most of the year, you can carve out time to visit while it’s empty for an easy and affordable vacation that can even save you money. 

Market Opportunity is Endless

While successful long-term rentals usually exist near major cities, vacation homes can be scattered all along with the globe, even in more secluded areas with vast income potential. Whether you’re looking to invest in a beach home, mountain home, or a cabin in the woods, there are endless opportunities and bound-to-be renters who will likely find your vacation home the perfect getaway. 

Build Equity and Reduces Homeowner Costs

Having multiple revenue streams and building an income property portfolio is an important investment goal for the majority of second homeowners. However, owning a home can come with many expenses such as mortgage payments, utilities, insurance fees, property taxes, HOA fees, and maintenance costs. Owning a rental property has great potential at counterbalancing these homeowner costs from the very beginning, even for first-time buyers. Consistent rental income can cover these monthly homeowner expenses and even help pay off the home in a shorter time than if you had chosen to live in it, allowing you to eventually create a nice profit from the rental. Vacation rental owners may also be eligible for specific tax deductions which can also help increase your potential income. 

Plan for Retirement

Whether retirement is a few years away or a few decades, owning a vacation rental can help you plan for a stress-free future. When choosing a vacation home to rent out, it’s important to think about where you may want to retire — a beach, in the mountains, or in your favorite city. As you move closer to retirement, the amount you may owe on your vacation home will be smaller or may even be completely paid off, allowing you to eventually make it your own home.

The dry season is known as high season in Costa Rica and as the buzz of the Christmas holidays and New Year’s eve winds down, the second week in January starts the best time of year to visit Costa Rica. The overcrowding has died down as the snowbirds traveling on winter holiday return home and peak prices drop making it an ideal time to visit the country. The weather is perfect with highs around 86-94 degrees Fahrenheit and lows in the 70s. In the Northwest the “Papagayo” winds from the cooler air moving down from North America displace the moist, warm, tropical air creating an ideal climate. When rain does strike, it is brief late afternoon shower and for the most part, the weather is ideal.

The Central Valley and Pacific beaches are booming this time of year and it’s also the peak time for tours and outdoor activities. There are festivals, vibrant fiestas, bullfights, dancing and live music at different events all over the country. Wildlife is abundant and active making it one of the best time of year for an ecotourism adventure. From wildlife spotting to whale watching to hiking to kayaking through the mangrove forests, it really is an ideal time of year for the outdoor enthusiast to travel. You can also catch the turtles making their way to shore to lay their eggs.

If the beaches are not for you, you can venture to Costa Rica’s breathtaking rainforests and hike the volcanoes. Arenal is a popular spot to visit for volcanoes, explore caves, horseback ride through the lush terrain, and soak in geothermal hot springs. Take a canopy tour through the wondrous cloud forests or go white water rafting or explore one of the many wildlife preserves. Eco-adventures are a plenty for the nature enthusiasts.

For surfers, up and down Costa Rica’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts are some of the best breaks in the world. Both beginners and pros can catch waves here. There are also many resorts offering yoga and mindfulness retreats for those seeking a wellness vacation. Visitors looking for a cosmopolitan beach vacation can travel to popular Tamarindo or one of the nearby surrounding communities where there is a Four Seasons and world-class golf nearby. Boaters can also find paradise here traveling up and down the coast.

January through February are seven of the best weeks to travel to Costa Rica. It’s a peak time but still not overrun with tourists. It’s Costa Rica’s summer. The weather is perfect with plenty of opportunities to relax and have fun. The weather during this peak tourist season makes it ideal for exploring rainforests and relaxing on beaches too. There is also a good selection of rental properties available during this time of year. If you are considering buying a property, it’s the perfect time to explore the country to find the perfect match.

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.

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.

Costa Rica commercial real estate continues to perform well in 2016. Non-residential buildings grew at an annual rate of 18%. The widespread expansion and new construction of commercial buildings in beach communities and San Jose is driving much of the growth of the commercial real estate market. Costa Rica’s economy is also performing well. While most of the world is experiencing a dramatic slowdown or economic turmoil, Costa Rica’s economy is expected to grow 4.2% in 2016. This positive forecast is tied to record high demand. Throughout San Jose, new buildings are going up to meet the demand. Vacancy rates are low and rents are rising. Costa Rica’s economic that make Costa Rica very attractive to North American and European expats.

The real estate market is also being driven by the increasing number of foreign companies with offices in Costa Rica. Five foreign owned companies are expanding their operations in Costa Rica this year. A total of 39 foreign investment projects in service industries and manufacturing technology already created an estimate 12,000 new jobs in 2016. An additional 2,000 jobs are expected to be created by the end of the year. Sykes, Amazon, Pfizer and Manpower are among the corporations expanding their operations. The commercial real estate market continues to benefit from this economic expansion through foreign investment, which not only creates demand for more office space but also restaurants and local businesses.

Beyond a strong commercial sector in San Jose due to the recent job growth and corporate expansion, the beach towns are also thriving as increasing numbers of expats purchase property in these towns. Guanacaste, Papagayo, Arenal, Puntarenas, Manuel Antonio, Dominical on the Pacific Coast, and Puerto Viejo, Punta Uva, Cocles and Manzanillo in the Caribbean side are the most popular towns. These local towns are big gathering places for the surrounding residents and tourists who can come together to enjoy music, dine or shop as needed. As the population expands, the commercial market demand continues to grow with it. Costa Rica is also one of the few Latin American countries experiencing rising immigration levels. The increase in the number of people living in Costa Rica with disposable income is a big factor driving the Costa Rica commercial real estate boom.

All this said, Costa Rica is an excellent investment choice at this time. The commercial real estate market is strong. There are 30 retail shopping centers scheduled to be built this year. With rental values rising, commercial property owners are well positioned to take advantage of the market. At this point, the market does not show signs of a slowdown making it a good investment opportunity.

The Southern Zone is known for its laid back vibe and three of the most magical towns in Costa Rica: Dominical, Ojochal, and Uvita. Rainforests, legendary surf spots, long stretches of beaches, an abundance of rich terrain and a laid-back atmosphere define this area. It’s a rare place on earth. While development has picked up recent years due to improved roadways and access to the area, the development and conservation regulations ensure this area will never become a noisy resort town with overbearing skyscrapers.

Along the Costa Ballena lie Dominical, Uvita, and Ojochal. These three Southern Zone coastal towns are off the radar hot spots. Dominical is a legendary surf spot. Uvita is a commercial center. Ojochal is a small village in the jungle. Deep blue waters meet the towering mountains and green jungles forming a breathtaking landscape that is raw, pure and clean. This is a place for adventurers and those seeking a more laid back lifestyle.

Dominical

Dominical attracts surfers from around the world each year to its legendary waves. The waters here are not for swimming and the waves are legendary. Making the trek to Dominical is a surfer’s pilgrimage. This haven beyond its legendary surf is an attractive laid back village with a few restaurants and shops. Surrounded by estuaries, mangroves, and marshes, the area has an abundance of wildlife. It’s now home to an estimated 700 residents. The pristine environment and warm culture draw surfers and eco-tourists. With lots of yoga and various types of holistic health practitioners mixing with the local culture harmoniously, it is a beacon for wellness. Vegan, raw food, and juicing are common here. Those seeking to live a more sustainable lifestyle flock here. In Dominical, there is time to reflect and just be.

Ojochal

Ojochal is a popular landing spot for expats from North America and Europe. It has grown into a culinary hot spot too. This coastal town is just 30-minutes south of Dominical. With hotels, restaurants, bars, doctors’ offices and a supermarket, it is a low-key Costa Rica town complete with the conveniences of modern life making it an ideal place to visit. With ATV tours, canopy tours, bird watching and mangroves to explore, there is no shortage of adventures and activities. For surfing, there is Playa Ballena and Playa Uvita nearby.

Uvita

Nestled in between Dominical and Ojochal along the Costa Ballena is magical Uvita. This town has a large supermarket and is probably the most developed area of the three places. Scuba diving, horseback riding, canopy tours and wildlife tours are all nearby. Uvita has grown famous for the hosting the annual music festival, the Envision Festival, which celebrates art, culture, yoga and sustainability each year in February. People flock to this small town in Costa Rica each year for the festival, which draws large crowds.

The magic and charm of these three towns lie in the quiet sustainable development, which protects the pristine ecosystems while also providing a level of comfort. The culture is laid back, health conscious and committed to wellbeing. There are few places left in the world that can match what the Southern Zone offers as a quiet refuge from the modern world for adventure, fun, and restoration.