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Costa Rica
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Costa Rica
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If you are seriously considering an investment in real estate in Costa Rica you have probably done your homework and know that Costa Rica (“rich coast” in Spanish) is truly an exceptional country. There is of course its natural beauty and its ideal climate. Costa Rica is a mountainous country in the tropical zone, and although only 8 to 11 degrees north of the equator it is often said that you can choose your climate by the elevation you choose for your home. Moving only a few hundred meters up from sea level can provide a very comfortable, temperate climate where neither air conditioning nor heating is required. |
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But aside from its considerable natural attributes, you may have read that this small country of 4 million people is a longstanding democracy (over 100 years), that it abolished its army in 1949 and put its emphasis on spending for education and health care for its citizens, and that its political and social stability set it apart from any other central american country. Democracy, peace, and personal liberty are the foundation of the nation. It has a large middle class, historically arising from a country of independent farm owners rather than farm workers, which now contributes to its stability. Costa Rica has a high literacy rate, a universal health care system, and a high life expectancy rate. The people are generally hard-working, family-oriented, respectful of each other, and friendly towards each other and foreigners alike. Settlers from many European countries have contributed to the diversity and tolerance within Costa Rican society. |
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This is also a progressive country, with a standard of living that greatly exceeds that of any other central american country. Tourism is taking over as the primary driver of the economy, with well over 1 million tourists a year in a country of only 4 million residents. Agriculture (coffee, bananas, and pineapple are the main export products), light industry and technology are also major contributors. Costa Ricans have not only had an enlightened approach to social issues but to the environment and tourism as well. This may well be the birthplace of eco-tourism. The government has devoted a high percentage of its national territory to the creation of national parks, with 27 national parks and many more protected reserves. Not far from our VISTAS DE CHIRRIPO development are 2 of those national parks, Chirripo and La Amistad. |
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Historically, the government has been friendly to foreign investment. This is to be expected, given that most residents are descendents of foreigners that came to Costa Rica to make a home. This positive attitude towards foreign investment can only be expected to continue. And there are no restrictions on foreign ownership of land, with the sole exception of beachfront areas. There is no capital gains tax on real estate at present, and property taxes are generally very low. Such a favourable real estate investment climate also distinguishes Costa Rica from many other countries that may offer a favourable geographical climate. It is no wonder then that there are more Americans, Canadians, and Europeans living in Costa Rica today than in any other country in Central America. |
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Real estate in Costa Rica has proved to be a very good investment over a number of years, and all indications are that this will continue indefinitely. Costa Rica offers some of the most scenic, livable land anywhere, and the world is taking notice. Real estate in most areas of the country is still very much a bargain, compared to any other favourable location in the world. Many foreigners who have purchased land here came as tourists and decided that this was the ideal spot for a retirement home or a seasonal home, or simply for a real estate investment with the possibility of residence in the future.
Air travel options to Costa Rica have increased greatly over the past several years, with many more airlines now offering direct flights. For access to the southern zone your flight is into San Jose, with San Isidro de El General being only 2.5 hours south on the Inter-american highway. There is excellent bus service throughout most parts of the country, and domestic air travel to many points, but most visitors who are travelling independently choose to rent a vehicle at the airport or in San Jose. That alone is an indication of the comfort level of most visitors to this country. Of course, many are repeat visitors. Visitors from the United States or Canada or most European countries do not require a visa; they can stay in the country for up to 90 days at a time with their passport. People deciding to stay longer at any given time can leave the country for 3 days before returning (3 day excursions to holiday spots in neighbouring Panama are popular) or can apply for permanent residency. There are a few different residency options, for retirees, investors etc., but generally it is necessary to demonstrate a certain level of guaranteed monthly income for expenditure in the country. |
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www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook (World Factbook on CIA web-site) | |
San Isidro Area Chirripo National Park Las Nubes Rainforest Local Beaches PURA VIDA! |
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