Properties in Costa Rica Blog

Written by Rod Martin

Water… it is a subject that’s on everyone’s mind these days. Reports of drought continue to make headlines around the world. Large sectors of the China, Brazil, the Baltic region in Europe, and the western part of the United States are experiencing water rationing, 10-fold increases in monthly water bills, increased threat of wild fire, and significant impact on commercial agriculture among other issues. In addition, studies continue to reveal the harmful effects of chlorinated drinking water consumption.

Whether water is scarce in the area you live or your tap water tastes like a chemical cocktail, the southern Pacific zone of Costa Rica is increasingly attractive to people looking for a long term solution to their clean water needs.

Move Over Ocean View

The #1 property feature investors desire when coming to the Costa Ballena, a 30-mile stretch of jungle-covered mountains and idyllic beaches, is still the ocean view. However, as issues surrounding water gain significance, clean water continues to climb in importance. The good news is there are gorgeous properties for sale on the Costa Ballena that have both!

Dominicalito Villas is a fine example of houses with quality craftsmanship, fine finishes, and a nice ocean view. It also has a professionally installed well with a concession (legal right to pull the water from the ground). The owners do not add chlorine and they drink from the tap without any issues. The well is tested every six months, and the results always come back “clean and drinkable”. And do not fret if your budget is smaller, there are a number of houses and lots on the Costa Ballena with a well or a spring as the water source.

Springs To Life

Speaking of springs, many of our buyers are looking for a larger piece of land with rivers, creeks, and springs on the property. These investors often want to build a wellness or eco-retreat/hotel with trails to a river or waterfall, or a family compound with room for gardening or even sustainable food production. River Runs Through It is a great option in the hills of Uvita. As the name suggests, there is a river running through the property, as well as a natural spring. This 12.6-acre property also has community water provided from high flowing springs a few kilometers up the valley.

If you want the granddaddy of water properties in the southern Pacific zone, the 1,400-acre Private Eco-Park, just 15 minutes outside of Quepos, is it. It is a wonderland of rolling hills for gardening and orchards, lush primary jungle, improved trails, and hanging bridges that meander over pristine rivers, creeks and springs. The source water has been tested at “Evian quality” levels, and it highlights this stunning conservation property.

Conclusion: Costa Rica + Water = Your New Life

As local and global populations increase and climate change continues to adversely effect our lives, there’s no question that water is becoming more and more of a global issue. Luckily, there is a hidden gem known as the Costa Ballena, and it contains a variety of properties for sale with abundant, clean water sources.

If you were anywhere in Costa Rica on Tuesday following the 0-0 tie against England that consolidated Costa Rica’s place at the top of Group D, you know that Ticos are bursting with pride for its national team. Throughout the streets, people were cheering, horns were blaring and total strangers were hugging; stores ran out beer and bars were packed with celebration. It seems the “underdogs” are taking the World Cup by storm.

Costa Rica’s story has not only defied the odds, but has also brought global attention to the country, and the attention is not just on its success in soccer. One example is the Costa Rica promotional video that airs before the games and which has received very positive global feedback, especially on social networks. The video shows Costa Rica’s natural beauty and positions it as an ideal place for relaxation and tourism. It also shows diversity in industries and the people of the nation and their passion, making the video excellent vehicle for promoting investment opportunities.

People more than ever recognized the name Costa Rica. President Solis has said, “[people] start to look it up on the internet, see the spheres, the fact that we don’t have any army, that we have a strong democracy; I think the culmination of all this will be a help to us.”

Bloomberg, the premier business and financial market news outlet, has recently aired an interview with Costa Rica’s Ambassador to the U.K., Pilar Saborio de Rocafort. The subject for discussion wasn’t just the incredible World Cup matches, but also the rewards of doing business in Costa Rica. The interview sheds light on how economically diversified Costa Rica has become. Thirty years ago, commodities such as coffee and fruit were 50% of Costa Rica’s export. Today, that number is only about 10%. This expansion and diversification translates to more diverse opportunities for investors.

Throughout Costa Rica, it’s clear what the national team’s achievements mean to its people. The country is brimming with pride for its soccer team. It gives the nation the feeling that anything could happen. It’s this kind of spirit that draws people to Costa Rica and as the world learns more about Costa Rica and it’s people, as we learned this World Cup, the possibilities are limitless.

Costa Rica is abundant in natural fruit and vegetables. But many of the trees only bear fruit once the Costa Rican summer is over and the green season has begun. Beginning March and April and peaking May and June you will find Mangos all over Guanacaste. During this time mangos are everywhere, you can pick ripe juicy mangos right off the ground as you go about your day. It’s the perfect opportunity to do as the monkeys do and enjoy a delicious mango! Eat the juicy ones over the sink our stand outside on your balcony overlooking the ocean as you peal away the skin of ripe mango.

Need inspiration on what to do with all those mangos? Keep it simple and raw. Blend the mangos with some ice and milk, water or yogurt and create delicious smoothies. Pour the mix into an ice cream maker or ice pop tray and you have a delicious frozen treat. If you’re in the mood for something more savory cut the mango into squares, do the same to an Avocado or two (also in season now), add some black beans, season with olive oil, lime juice, salt and pepper and you have a delicious fresh, seasonal salad!

Happy eating!

Join us at beautiful Hacienda Pinilla on Thursday, April 17^th for the Fiesta Sabanera where you can enjoy a colorful display of local horsemanship, music and dance!

The Fiesta is perfect for horse aficionados and anyone interested in learning more about Costa Rica’s cultural roots. The celebration will take place at Hacienda Pinilla’s equestrian center.  The Center has more than 40 horses available for tours throughout the area.

It also has an equestrian school and riding ring for visitors.  Even if you are not a horse rider, this is a great experience to view the beauty of these four-legged creatures and learn more about this aspect of Costa Rican Culture.

Date:  April 17
Time:  4 p.m.
Place:  Equestrian Center Hacienda Pinilla
Cost:  $10 admission; Free for children under 12

Today, March 20th,has been designated the United Nations International Day of Happiness. According to the founder of Action for Happiness, “Happiness means feeling good about our lives and wanting to go on feeling that way.  Unhappiness means feeling bad and wanting things to change.”

Costa Rica has been ranked the happiest country on earth for several years in a row. What better day than today to explore what makes Costa Ricans so happy and what factors in general have the ability to make people happier.

Costa Rica is a country with beautiful ocean vistas and incredible biodiversity.  It has been an ecological pioneer, aiming to create a small ecological footprint.  Costa Rican’s have the joy of exploring gorgeous beaches on both sides of the country, and possess the ability to step outside their door to gaze upon beautiful mountain vistas.  Their emphasis on preserving this natural beauty has also boosted its economy, creating more jobs and opportunities.  And with no standing army, more money has been redirected to education (Costa Rica has a 96% literacy rate, the highest of any Latin American country).  Costa Ricans also find joy in the company of friends and family, placing a strong emphasis on loved ones over social capital and financial gains. Perhaps it’s these factors that contribute to Costa Rica’s unofficial slogan, Pura Vida, pure life.

We all want to live happy, fulfilling lives and want the same for our loved ones.  Many different factors can influence happiness:  genes and upbringing, external circumstances, but we can also influence our own happiness by our own choices, personal values and our sense of purpose.   Some people think that success is the key to happiness.  But recent psychological studies show that this is not the case.  Instead, its said that happiness fuels success, rather than the other way around.  When we are positive we become motivated, creative and productive.

One form of the success many people seek is financial. The idea that money can’t buy happiness has been around a long time, but that’s not to say there is no connection between income and happiness.  People with a comfortable living standard are happier than people living in poverty. “Comfortable standard” varies across countries. However, once we reach that standard, anything beyond that does not bring additional happiness.  Buying more things for ourselves- fancy cars or designer clothing, are not effective in turning money into happiness.   Instead, studies show that if you spend on yourself, you should buy experiences, not things.  An evening out with friends, a family trip to the beach will apparently make you happier in the long run than a new designer watch.   Also, the study shows, we should focus on buying for others.  This means indulging less in ourselves and giving others the opportunity to indulge.

Below we have outlined the Action for Happiness 10 keys to happier living. While in Costa Rica we are the happiest people in the world there is always room for growth and ways to make our lives and the lives of others a little sweeter.

Action for Happiness 10 keys to happier living

• Do things for others
• Connect with people
• Take care of your body
• Notice the world around you
• Keep learning new things
• Have goals to look forward to
• Find ways to bounce back
• Take a positive approach
• Be comfortable with who you are
• Be part of something bigger

by Rod Martin

For nearly a decade, there has been a lot of speculation about the new airport in the southern Pacific zone of Costa Rica.  The location (Palmar, Sierpe, somewhere closer to the Panama border) of the airport has changed a few times.  The optimistic timeline for “now open” status has been delayed over and over.  The fact is… nobody knows when it’s going to open or where.

This last point has been highlighted after the recent article in Costa Rica’s #1 newspaper, La Nacion, “Comienza Ampliación de Aeropuerto de Quepos” (Expansion of the Quepos Airport To Begin”).

The Civil Aviation Technical Council (CTAC) has begun the process of enlarging the Managua Regional Airport.  According to the director of Civil Aviation, Álvaro Vargas, the expansion will enable the terminal to receive larger national and international aircraft.

The “international aircraft” point is potentially big news for the area.  The Quepos airport currently receives around 15 regional flights and approximately 240 passengers per day.  Improvements will include extending the runway, construction of a terminal for passengers, a fire station, a hangar for aircraft maintenance, and additional parking among other minor changes.

Álvaro Vargas went on to say that the initial work on the runway expansion will be completed in 2015, and “the approximate cost of the purchase of land to extend the runway and make new improvements is $5 million.”

What does it mean for Quepos and the Southern Pacific Zone?

The economic impact will be felt by Quepos sectors like—hotels, restaurants, car rental, tour companies, and real estate—immediately.  More visitors will likely mean a boost to an already strong Manuel Antonio real estate market, which includes the Pez Vela Marina and luxury homes like this, Beachfront Indonesian Estate and exceptional larger parcels, like this Protected Eco-Reserve in Parrita.

The effect on the Costa Ballena, roughly the coastal area between Dominical and Ojochal, will be substantial, as well.  Now that the Coastal Highway is complete, the trip from Quepos to Dominical is a quick 30 minutes.  The Costa Ballena is highlighted by gorgeous beaches and waterfalls, majestic mountains, and ocean view property.

At the time of this article’s release, there has been no word on how the proposed international airport in the Palmar/Sierpe area will be affected.  News of the expansion of the Quepos Airport could delay, or possible spur on, the construction of this new international airport.

Either way, news of the Quepos airport expanding to eventually accept international flights has the southern zone buzzing.

Valentine’s Day has arrived!  Which means it’s time to celebrate the people we hold dear to our hearts.  In Costa Rica Valentine’s day is actually called “El Dia Del Amor y la Amistad” (love and friendship day).  All across Costa Rica today people express their appreciation not just for their spouse or partner but also for their friends, family, colleagues and even clients.  In fact, today, Costa Ricans will send ten million text messages to their friends and loved ones.   In a country of only approximately 4.5 million people, that’s a lot of love!

No matter who you’re thinking of on a day like today, what better way to express your love than taking a stroll on the beach with a close friend or spouse, catching the waves with your son, chasing your newly active toddler across the sand, kicking back with a beer and a buddy, or having girl talk by the pool… all topped off with a gorgeous sunset at the end of the day.

If romantic love is what you have in mind, Costa Rica is the perfect backdrop to kick-start your life as a couple with a romantic proposal! Click here and here for some beautiful images from proposals in Costa Rica.  Perhaps you’ll find your inspiration!

We have many amazing properties that could provide the perfect location for a beautiful getaway whether it be to show your appreciation for family and loved ones or plan that perfect proposal!  Click here or view our galleries and find the perfect property to make some memories filled with love.

Feliz Dia Del Amor y la Amistad to all our friends from Properties in Costa Rica

by Rod Martin

The end of another year.  Time for gratitude and reflection, both personal and professional.  In terms of business, it allows us to chart this Costa Rica real estate market we deal with on a daily basis.

After 5 years of trickling activity and decreasing property values, the “high season” (roughly the end of November thru March) saw an uptick.  The big question on our minds this time last year was “will it continue throughout the year or will the market be slow until next “high season”.  The answer… was resoundingly positive.

Sales are up

As you can see in the graphic (A1), the year over year increase in sales (think- buying) was 15%.  Market movement/growth was basically flat lined for the previous 4+ years, so this upturn was encouraging news.  The overall market is improving, but let’s look a little closer at the internal market dynamics.

Home sales led all categories on the Costa Ballena, a gorgeous stretch of coastline in the southern Pacific zone of Costa Rica.  Not only was the number of sold houses impressive, but two luxury estates over $2,000,000 sold, as well.  Although less than 50% of these new owners are relocating after their purchase, over 50% are smartly using it to generate revenue.  The vacation rental market is very strong on the Pacific Coast.  People want turn-key options, and this is not limited to affordable villas and luxury estates.

Six hotels sold on the Costa Ballena in 2013.  These ranged from low budget hotels to those valued at over one million dollars.  Like the vacation rental market, profitable hotels allow people a way to pay bills and, in some cases, start a new life!

I believe this is the first year that turn-key options (houses and hotels) have out numbered raw land sales, if only by one or two.  One trend we often see is when house hunters can’t find the right home, they buy and build it!  This is a smart strategy since you have the freedom of choice for location and design of the home.

More good news for buyers

Like the sunsets, the news just keeps getting better and, in fact, it’s two-fold.  First, many home owners who have been sitting on the sideline now see the market picking up and are listing their houses with us.   More listings = better selection.  Second, property values are still low.  As with any real estate market, there is a time delay between uptick in sales and stronger property values.

Purchase price vs. List price

As reflected in the second graphic (A2), many sellers are negotiable on their list price.  The average sale price is 13% lower than the list price.  Obviously, this varies depending on the sellers, their motivation, and fiscal elements like “all cash” or financing.  As the market gets stronger, that percentage will disappear like the setting Sun over the Pacific.

The 2014 “high season” has already produced a lot of activity, and it’s no surprise.  Fantastic properties at good prices… come take a look today!

Costa Rica’s Southern Zone has been drawing a lot of attention recently. This is hardly a surprise considering its natural beauty is unparalleled and prices of property are very much within reach. International Living Magazine says this is the place where you can find “ocean views that won’t break the bank.” Despite a growing interest from buyers and agents there are still amazing homes and properties available at excellent prices. According to International Living the prices for ocean view homes in the Southern Zone (starting at $150,000) are one quarter the price one would pay for a similar property in Southern California. But even if we look at prices of comparable properties in other parts of Costa Rica, the Southern Zone is still a bargain by comparison. Homes in the region are still a fraction of the price of similar homes in the very popular Guanacaste region.

With all the attention that the area has been receiving lately, is it possible that we are on the brink of a boom? Is the Southern Zone the “new” Guanacaste? While we can definitely expect a steady increase in prices as more attention, amenities and comforts arrive to the area, there are a lot of factors to counterbalance this. First, there is a tremendous amount of protected acreage. But second, there is the simple fact that it’s the views and nature in all its simplicity that draws people to the region. It is precisely the lack of sprawling resorts and condominium high rises that attract potential buyers to the area. We probably won’t be seeing large-scale disruptive development, or huge condo complexes anytime soon. But if you haven’t thought about the Southern Zone, you should probably start paying attention to the region. Property values are surely on the rise.

If economic factors are not motivation enough, you get so much more than just value in the Southern Zone. The area is home to 3% of the world’s species. Here, you’ll find more acres of preserved land than in all of Costa Rica. Ballena National Marine Park is great for spotting humpback whales (giving rise to the nick-name “Ballena (Whale) Coast”). The landscape is postcard perfection with expanses of lowland rainforests and green mountains that melt into the seascape. The new coastal highway makes it an easy three-hour trip by car from San Jose. You’ll also find a growing population of expatriates who have brought with them new restaurants and a variety of international dining options. For someone looking to connect with nature and get back to the real, unspoiled Costa Rica, the Southern Zone is the perfect place.

If you are interested in exploring this beautiful region, Joshua Kanter is one of our Properties in Costa Rica’s best resources for finding a home in the Southern Zone and was recommended in International Living’s article. He lives full-time in Dominical and knows the ins and outs of finding the perfect property in the area.

Contact us for assistance and to view any of our listings

On the Thanksgiving holiday we are reminded to be grateful and practice generosity with others.  In real estate we can apply this principle at various levels.

As a broker or agent it can help us to redirect negative energy into positive energy.  For example, when faced with adversity such as a difficult client or a challenging project or listing, we should strive to take negative feedback and turn it into positive energy and make ourselves more productive by listening, absorbing feedback and making the necessary modifications.  It’s what will make us better and what sets us apart here at Properties in Costa Rica.

In Costa Rica we have much to be thankful for:  beautiful weather, gorgeous backdrops, the ocean and beaches- sometimes all in our own backyards.  We should also keep in mind the importance of simple acts of generosity and balance success with kindness.

Especially in a country where balance is so crucial.  We have new construction- hotels, restaurants, resorts, homes, shopping areas- all surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife.  As real estate brokers, developers, prospective property owners we must keep in mind that this is what is important in Costa Rica.  It’s what draws people here and keeps us here.

We need to be thankful and mindful.