REVISTA RE AGOSTO web(1)

The Best Place to invest in Latin America

CHATEAU MONTAGE SOUTH PACIFIC Exclusively Luxurious Retreat Unlike any other. Pages 50 & 51

12 Bedroom Mansion with the most breathtaking views – MUST SEE! Classically inspired mansion in the border of Playa Hermosa and Jaco, Casa Bisily, boasts being the most spacious and luxurious home in town. Ideal for Family use or Rental Investment property. Two uniquely blended buildings, dazzling 3 level balconies, fully equipped kitchen, an elegant dining area, a classy bar and lounge, an infinity pool with adjacent jacuzzi - all, a must see exotic blend! Conveniently located near Beaches, world class surfing, fishing marinas, golf course, bars, restaurants, shopping hubs, business centers and much more! Casa Bisily is not just another house, it is an experience where beauty meets magnificence!

Asking Price: $3,900,000 USD (Negotiable with serious buyers) About this Property: Buildings: 2, Stories: 3, Bedrooms: 12, Bathrooms: 15 Location: Casa Bisily, Playa Hermosa, Puntarenas, Costa Rica Website: www.casabisily.com Contact: +1 646.887.2690

Honored to dedicate my time and experience to making your vision a reality. I can guide you through the do’s and don’ts of buying, selling or investing in our beautiful country. Find Your Dream

www.costaricalivingrealestate.com M a n u e l A n t o n i o | Q u e p o s | D o m i n i c a l | O j o c h a l

Whether you want to live in Costa Rica full or part-time, create a lucrative ROI through renting your home, purchase land or a successful business, I can help! Contact me today and request my top tips for investing in Costa Rica. Li festyle In Costa Rica

Melissa Klassen 1-800-747-0294 | +506 8882 0009 costarical ivingrealestate@gmai l . com U v i t a | M a t a p a l o | J a c o

Créditos | Credits Publisher | Editor Agustin Bermudez. International Sales & Marketing Manager F. Suyen Arvizu I. Client Services Manager Cid Carazo A.

Contenido | Contents

14 18 22 28 44 71

BUYING PROPERTY IN COSTA RICA

Graphic Design Irania Salazar S. Photographer Irving Dávila

GRECIA - A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE

Administrative Assistant Gabriel Alejandro Abarca L. Luisa Maria Madrigal Cedeño Sales Ana Marcela Dávila Madrigal

OBTAINING RESIDENCY IN COSTA RICA

Contact Information: Marketing & Sales Cel: (506) 7130-2841 Phone: (506) 2102 9956

24 A NEW BEGINNING IN COSTA RICA!

sales@costaricarealestate magazine.com costaricamagazine77@gmail.com Administrative mail: costaricamagazine1998@gmail.com

THE CENTRAL PACIFIC COAST

Costa Rica Real Estate Magazine

THE SOUTH PACIFIC COAST

THE NORTH PACIFIC COAST

Más contenido y artículos en español disponibles en: WWW.COSTARICAREAL ESTATEMAGAZINE.COM sales@co staricarealestatemagazine.com

84

COSTA RICA GLOBAL ASSOCIA- TION OF REALTORS

8 COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE 8 COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE

MARKETING DIRECTOR REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE

I am Suyen Arvizu, 43 years old and a single mother, originally from Nicaragua but a resident of my beloved beautiful Costa Rica for over 20 years. I am the Marketing Director and Owner of the magazine and at your service. First of all, I want to thank the kindness of our advertisers and collaborators who developed articles in due time, with topics of interest to publicize why Costa Rica is a very attractive and safe country to invest and retire in, among other reasons to visit. I am especially grateful to those who value our effort even in difficult times where I passionately believe that together we are a stronger force, here is a bit more information. As part of our grain of sand and helping us overcome together (COVID 19) Crisis = Opportunity where I guarantee that the impact will be less if we support each other. Our interest is that your company takes advantage of this moment to prepare and to return with everything when all this is over. Although the circumstances may not be ideal, now is the time, dear business clients and friends, to be truly creative, and that means finding innovative ways to work from home, reaching more than ever our potential clients and prospects, both nationally and internationally.  Reach your clients at this moment, defined by keeping social distance, in Costa Rica and North America where there is plenty of capital just waiting for attractive offers, and as some of our clients say, the person who has money continues to have it, we just have to create, develop, resolve and implement other strategies to make those deals happen, that’s why we are at your service for what you need, we detail below a very complete package, choose one or we can custom design something to fit your budget and goals. As part of our gratitude, we inform you that with a lot of effort, vision and ambition and the assurance that everything will turn out very well, we will once again be at the largest travel show in North America, the New York Times Travel Show with the attendance of 35,000+ visitors with high purchasing power and ap- proximately 170 countries present, representing Costa Rica will be our printed magazine, the Costa Rica Real Estate Magazine under the name of our booth which is DISCOVER COSTA RICA.

Lcda. Suyen Arvizu Marketing Director and Owner

CostaRica isThe Best Place for a secure investment in the Latin American region.

PHOTO CREDITS: WWW.ONETHREEVISUALS.COM & COVER PHOTO: VILLA RINCONES MÁGICOS WWW.COSTARICALUXURY.COM

° Best climate ° Best health system

° Best socio-political system ° Lowest property taxes

ID8818 Brand New Apartment in Santa Ana, 3B, 2B, 177m2 in Gated Community, Santa Ana / For Sale $195.000

ID9800 New, Large Contemporary House, 4B, 3.5B, 395m2 with Garden and Common Areas in Santa Ana / For Sale $595.000

ID9680 One Story, 3B, 3.5B, 330m2 Colonial Style House in Cerro Real, Escazu /For Sale $560.000 / For Rent $3.300

ID11280 Distrito 4, Escazu, Bigger 2B, 2B, 2P Furnished Apartment with Office and Garden. For Sale $349,500 For Rent $2,200

Santa Ana Real Estate

ID10079 Flat Land 1,017m2 in the Famous Gat- ed Community La Hacienda in Santa Ana / For Sale $385.000

ID10334 Apartment 3B, 2.5B, 2P, Maids, Storage and Amenities in Escazu / For Sale $200.000

ID10744 Luxurious Spacious Apartment with Panoramic Views, Santa Ana. For Sale $495,000

ID7203 Opportunity! Contemporary House 3B, 3B, 410m2 in Harmony with Nature, Santa Ana / For Sale $395.000

ID10399 Fully Furnished Apartment, All Included, Torre Paseo Colon / For Sale $175,000 For Rent: $950

ID11104 Luxurious Living in Jaboncillos, Escazu with Impressive Views. For Sale $650,000.

PROFESSIONAL RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, SALES AND RENTAL SERVICES BTC Accepted!! PRIVATE LOANS AVAILABLE!! US +1 786 999 8676 CR +506 7108-1041 info@cbrealestatecr.com www.cbrealestatecr.com

ID11350 2 Bedroom Apartment in Guachipelin, Motivated Seller, Bring Offers! For Sale $139,000 For Rent $1,100

ID10034 Recently Remodeled Townhouse, 3B, 2.5B, 232m2, Gated Community in Guachipelin, Loma Real, Escazu / For Sale $225.000

Our expert team will provide you with the personal service and attention that you deserve. We take great pride in our com- pany; as well as, serving our clients and neighbors. Ask around, and you will find that Coldwell Banker Santa Ana Real Estate team is highly respected. We have earned our clients’ re- spect through hard work and dedication. No question or re- quest is too demanding, as we constantly research the latest market conditions and finance options. As your real estate pro- fessional, you can be confident that we will always put forth the extra effort to assist you with the purchase, sale or rental of residential or commercial prop- erties. With the resources of one of the most respected and well recognized franchises in Real Estate - Coldwell Banker; we can make your dreams a reality. English, Spanish and French spoken Visit our web site at www.cbrealestatecr.com or contact us at US & Canada: 1-786-999-8676 CR: (506) 4034-4000 / (506) 7108-1041

ID8095 Brand New Contemporary 4B, 3.5B, 535m2 House With Views in Exclusive Gated Community / For Sale $780,000

ID10661 ONE LEVEL, Contemporary, 3B, 3.5B, 233m2 const., 340m2 lot. Gated Community in Santa Ana. For Sale $425,000

ID7572 PRICE REDUCED! Beautiful 4B, 5B, 340m2, Country Home in the City, Santa Ana / For Sale $440,000

ID10655 Stunning, private, single family home, 757m2 const., 3,850m2 lot, 6b, 7.5b, pool. Santa Ana. REDUCED PRICE: $795,000

ID9770 INVESTORS! Income producing, Remod- eled Penthouse, 3B, 2B, 133m2, in Santa Ana. For Sale $190,000

ID9664 2 Story Spacious Home, 3B, 2.5B, Studio, 380m2 Los Reyes Gated Community, Golf, Polo, More / For Sale $425,000 For Rent $3,100

ID9783 Elegant Mediterranean Style Home, 5B, 5.5B, 590m2 in San Antonio de Escazu / For Sale $660.000

ID6888 Spanish Style, 6B, 6B, 500m2 Single Family Home, Ample Lot, Golf Community, La Guacima / For Sale $549.000

“Each office is independently owned and operated”

ID3350 High End 4B, 5B, 600m2 Contemporary House in Escazu / For Sale $950,000

ID10449 Contemporary 3B, 2.5B Townhouse in Gated Community, Santa Ana. For Sale $268,000

ARTICLE | REAL ESTATE

BUYING PROPERTY IN COSTA RICA 101-A PRIMER You have visited Costa Rica, possibly several trips and you love it and you are ready to buy your own place in Paradise, great, you are making a wonderful decision!

14 COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE as you do your homework properly! Do it right and you will be very happy but if you don´t do your due diligence and work with expert real estate and legal help to guide you, then you are basically rolling the dice and hoping to win. A big plus is that the foreign owner of property in Costa Rica has the same constitutional rights as Costa Rican citizens. One key piece of advice not usually given is that you should choose a good lawyer who will be the key person in getting things done correctly and safely in Costa Rica. Even before picking a Real Estate pro- fessional, find a good lawyer, preferably one who works daily with the area you are interested in buying your property in, although some San José lawyers are also excellent real estate specialists. A good lawyer will advice you on any pit- falls you might not have seen or even know about, and also knows who the reputable real estate firms or individuals in the chosen area are and can also help you to begin your residency application. In Costa Rica, mostly all land is titled, and those titles are registered and kept at the offices of the Public Registry in San José (the Capital city) in the Property Section (Registro de la Propiedad). Most titles are currently organized by means of a computerized system called the ¨Folio Real¨. A property ownership transfer re- quires that both the buyer and the seller sign a deed before a Costa Rican Notary Public (whose concept is different from the ones in many other countries such as Canada and the United States and is re- quired to formalize all transactions deal- ing with real estate transfers) and that the deed is then recorded at the Public F ew places have all the pluses that Costa Rica can offer for retirement, relocation and investment, so long

Registry. Nearly all purchases require a due diligence period of 30 to 60 days so an Option to Buy-Sell is signed (Opción de Compra-Venta) where the key items are specified such as the property reg- istry information, the price, the option term, broker commissions and the key due diligence points that must be met in order for the down payment (given with signing of option) to be released to the seller by the Escrow company. Do not give the option money (which is usu- ally 10% unless agreed otherwise mu- tually), to the seller or his lawyer. Your lawyer should have a reputable escrow company he or she works with that will act as the independent third party in the transaction and that will abide by the op- tion to buy contract stipulations. For your protection always use your own trusted lawyer to look out for your interests and do not agree to use the seller´s lawyer as that opens you up to big potential trouble. All titled land in Costa Rica, whether it is registered following the newer ¨Folio Real¨ system or the older book/page/en- try system, can be accurately and safely title-searched in order to determine all relevant aspects on the specific proper- ty, such as ownership, mortgages, liens, annotations or other issues, that may af- fect ownership rights or the possibility of transferring said property to a third party. Title searches on ¨Folio Real¨ proper- ties may be initiated in the computer system, which is accessible online but will then possibly require a follow-up in the book/page/entry system, particularly when the computer search shows liens, encumbrances or other property charac- teristics that were ¨inherited¨ from older transactions on that land before it was transferred to the ¨Folio Real¨ system. Additionally, although the computer sys-

tem will indicate a list of liens and en- cumbrances, in most cases a thorough and complete title search will require the review of microfilmed or scanned documents indicating the details of such finds, which are not accessible online and can only be obtained at the offices of the Public Registry. Although, as indicated, the ¨Folio Real¨ is accessible online, generally private parties do not have the legal training to be able to accurately interpret the in- formation acquired, as well as to know how best to follow-up any required fur- ther steps. This is why it is highly rec- ommended that a knowledgeable legal professional be used to perform and re- port on the title search. In addition to the title search, if the property is owned by a corporation, it is essential to undertake a corporate search at the Commercial Section of the Public Registry. Only by doing so, can you verify that this corpo- rate entity transferring the property is in good standing and also that the pro- posed signatory of the transfer deed ac- tually does have the legal power to do this transfer. Another important item to keep in mind when buying a property is the USO DE SUELO (what you are allowed to build or do on that property). For example, if you are buying a lot or built property for com- mercial purposes but the land is desig- nated for residential use only then you need to know this. Or you want to buy a lot and put several units on it but are only allowed a single residence or you want to have a Bed & Breakfast, but the municipality does not allow it, etc., etc. All of these pitfalls can easily be avoided with the use of a good lawyer and proper due diligence and the additional help of a good real estate professional.

ID11320 Large Townhouse, 4B, 3.5B, terrace and Solarium in Gated Community, Santa Ana. For Sale $320,000

ID4750 Spectacular, Award Winning, Contempo- rary, Single Family Home, 5B, 5B, 850m2 in Villa Real / For Sale $1.995.000

ID6352 Private, 3B, 2.5B, 350m2, 1543m2 lot, Single Family House with Pool, Santa Ana. For Sale $375,000

ID11151 UNDER PRICED! Modern and Spacious Home with Private Pool and Views, Santa Ana. For Sale $495,000

ID10660 Exclusive Single Family Home with Pool, Santa Ana, 2 Story, 4B, 7B, 1,078m2 construction, 1,368m2 lot. Gated Community. For Sale $1,680,000

ID8565 Brand New, One Level, Contemporary Home, 3B, 3.5B, 232m2 in Santa Ana / For Sale $348,000 / For Rent $2.350

US +1 786 999 8676 CR +506 7108 1041

info@cbrealestatecr.com www.cbrealestatecr.com Centro Comercial Kimera, Alto de Las Palomas, Santa Ana, Costa Rica

“Each office is independently owned and operated”

ID7980 Amazing 0.63 acres Commercial Lot in Alto de las Palomas, Escazu / For Sale $475,000

ID9645 Luxurious, Unique Single Level Home with private pool and Views, Santa Ana. For Sale $1,400,000

ID8513 Office Space 585m2, Exclusive Corporate Center, Rohrmoser, San Jose / For Rent $11.700

ID9691 Single Family Home in Gat- ed Community, 3B, 2,5B plus maid’s. 255m2 const., 361m2 Lot. Tennis, pool, soccer…Santa Ana. For Sale: $490,000

ID10226 GANGA! Furnished Apartment, 3B, 2B, Maid’s, racquetball, pool, etc. in Es- cazu. For Sale $175,000

ID8072 Ready to Build, Wonderful 0.44 Acre Lot, Incredible Views, Ciudad Colon / For Sale $225.000

ID10404 Build To Your Taste! Lot in Gat- ed Community in Belen, 2153 sqf / For Sale $71.500

+506. 7037-9766

VENTA Y RENTA SERVICIOS DE CONSTRUCCIÓN ADMINISTRACIÓN DE PROPIEDADES

VELAREALESTATE24@GMAIL.COM

VELA REAL ESTATE

Terreno: 325m2 Construcción:185m2, 3 Hab. con baño completo cada una, Sala, comedor, Cocina, Terraza, Cochera p/4 carros. LINDA CASA EN ZONA DE GRAN PLUSVALIA/ ESCAZÚ / VISTA A LAS MONTAÑAS

Precio: USD $270,000

Centro Comercial con un alto porcentaje ya rentado a empresas gubernamentales y privadas. Acabados de primera calidad. PLAZA GUACAS / GUANACASTE EXCELENTE OPORTUNIDAD DE NEGOCIO

Precio: USD $875,000

Terreno: 168 m 2 , Construcción: 200 m 2 , 3 Habitaciones, 1 1/12 baños, Sala, Comedor, Cocina, Terraza CASA EN ESCAZÚ CENTRO

Precio: USD $180,000

LOTES

HOTEL

HOTEL EL LLANO-SAN ANTONIO ESCAZÚ / EXCELENTE VISTA PANORÁMICA. Excelente oportunidad de negocio, listo para operar. Terreno: 12,400 m 2 Construcción: 1,200 M 2 , 32 habitaciones con baño c/u. 2 aptos, 2 salas de eventos, piscina y parqueo para 100 Vehículos.

Precio: USD $2,400,000

LOTE EN RESIDENCIAL/ CARMEN DE GUADALUPE, FRENTE A CALLE

Terreno: 600 m 2 Cuenta con todos los servicios.

Precio: USD $186,000

LOTE PLANO PARA RESIDENCIAL / MERCEDES NORTE DE PURISCAL

Terreno: 840 m 2 Cuenta con todos los servicios

Precio: USD $60,000

Price: 1,398,000. USD Reduced: 1,250,000. USD

Unique Warehouse For Sale Located on the edge of Downtown San Jose Lot size: 3,570 m2 / 38,427 sq. ft. | Construction: 2,390 m2 / 25,725 sq. ft. | Office | Parking | Truck Loading area

One of a Kind Deal 600+ Acre Farm and House Tilaran, Guanacaste Located on Lake Arenal near Tilaran | Spectacular Lake and Volcano views | 1 mile of Road frontage along the Lake | Large US Country Style home

Price: 1,200,000. USD

Mauricio Rodriguez (506) 8911-0282 Mobile

Alexander Monroe Ch (506) 8862-5652 Mobile (506) 2228-0200 Costa Rica (305) 400-1221 USA USA to CR # alexanderm@remax.net

(506) 2228-0200 Costa Rica (305) 400-1221 USA to CR # mauricio.rodriguez@remax.net

US $530,000 PRICED AT was $630K. Direct Owner-Financing available

Will listen to offers for a full payment purchase

HIGH END GATED RESIDENTIAL, 24/7 SECURITY AND GREAT APPRECIATION VALUE IN CIUDAD HACIENDA LOS REYES.

Characteristics of the residential

Polo F I E L D S

Professional Soccer F I E L D S

4 Tennis C O U R T S

Gymnasium

Golf Course 9 - H O L E

Heated pools for C H I L D R E N A N D A D U L T S

Picnic areas WITH AN 18-HECTARE (44.5 ACRES) RESERVE WITH PATHS AND ANCIENT TREES, PERFECT FOR NATURE LOVERS

Controlled access W I T H 2 4 / 7 S E C U R I T Y

Bicycle paths W A L K I N G A N D

Supermarkets & Bilingual Schools nearby & quick access to Highway 27 - - The home is located on the Exclusive lot 267 of the first phase of development of Los Reyes, with direct access to the golf course (6th hole). The home includes a Club membership. The lot measures 1,056 m2 and the construction is 462 m2, Ecofriendly, totally earthquake resistant, top notch finishes. Garage for two cars and a golf cart, complete service area, maid's room with its bathroom, studio with its own bathroom, three rooms upstairs with their own bathrooms and balconies, main room with a view of the Golf course, dressing room and large balcony, two onyx sinks, Italian faucets, games and tv area, dining room, kitchen and terrace integrated in the American style with all granite counter tops. Eco-friendly to the extent that its orientation allows excellent lighting and ventilation, a large laundry area, it has a drinking water collection tank with its silent submersible pump, in short, all the comforts that a family can wish for. Designed by Architect Gustavo Duque Rojas, a team of Civil, Structural, Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, guarantee the quality of the construction, we design the house of your dreams adjusted to your budget.

SEE THE VIDEO

arquitecto (506) 8331-3402

gustavoduque48@gmail.com

Exora Luxury Villa, Turrucares

Unique Design with Modern Style and luxury finishes, with multiple ambiances for sharing and surrounded by many gardens; a perfect location with plenty of privacy and tranquility. Price: US$1,950,000

Lot: 14,346.30 m², Construction: 1,841.80 m², Bedrooms: 4, 4 full baths and two ½ baths, Guest and employee house. Parking: 4 int / 16 ext, pool, jacuzzi, sauna, BBQ.

4 full / 2 half bath

4

Price: US$5,000,000

Price: US$2,850,000

Price: US$1,100,000

Villa La Artística San Antonio Escazú Lot: 13,834.18m², Construction: 2,076m², 5Bedrooms, 3 full baths and two½baths, Parking: 2 int / 20 ext, 3 Studies, office, TVroom, Pool, Sauna, Jacuzzi

Hotel 4 Stars Playa Azul Guanacaste Lot: 20,464m2, Const: 5,139m2 , 21Bedrooms, 21 Baths, 2Rest, gym, solarium, gardens, pool, jacuzzi, bar, yoga deck, entertainments,mini-market, Tours

Villa Montero La Caraña, Santa Ana Lot: 4,671m, Const: 676m, 4Bedrooms, 3 full baths and two½baths, office, Parking: 4 int / 16 ext

3 full / 2 half bath

3 full / 2 half bath

4

21 full baths

5

21

Price: US$845,000

Price: US$900,000

Price: US$487,000

ROCAGUA House Cerro Colon Lot: 2,583m, Construction: 752m, Office + Home Theater, Parking: 4 int / 8 ext

Quinta la Joya San Rafael Heredia Lot: 9,000m, Construction: 600m, Office + Guest House (2-Bdrm), Parking: 2 int / 18 ext

Trejos Montealegre Luxury Home Lot: 620m, Construction: 480m, 2 Apart- ments, Parking: 2 int / 4 ext

4 full / 1 half bath

3

4 full / 2 half bath

5

4 full / 1 half bath

3

Price: US$1,300,000

Price: US$350,000

Price: US$3,000,000

Brand New INEDITA Luxury Home Lot: 930m, Construction: 485m, Office + Pool, Parking: 2 int / 2 ext

Luxury House Vista del Río San Rafael Escazú Lot: 310m2, Const: 320m, 3Bedrooms, cinema room, 2.5 baths, 2 parking, terrace andBBQ, 3 levels

Playa Flamingo Luxury Home Lot: 4,000m, Construction: 1,100m Office + 2 Apartments, Parking: 4 int / 6 ext

4 full / 1 half bath

4

2full / 1 half bath

14 full / 2 half bath

3

12

Price: US$10,897,460

Price: US$9,240,000

Price: US$6,000,000

Royal Palm San Mateo Alajuela Lot: 64.1ha, Construction: 350m Mixed Use Development - Royal Palm of San Mateo

Hermosa Resort Playa Esterillos Lot: 66ha Mixed Use Development - Playa Hermosa Resort Esterillos

Cattle and Buffalo Ranch Bagaces Guanacaste Lot: 177ha Construction: 450m

J&J Real Estate CR Inmobiliaria

www.jjrealestatecr.net • info@jjrealestatecr.net We have extensive knowledge of the market, investments and the product or service that our customers are looking for. We go beyond the objectives of a traditional real estate agency, obtaining and evaluating the value that each of our clients need. Contact us today so we can advise you on your next investment: +506 7043-4298 Jorge Isaack Urbina Navarro; President/Partner

ARTICLE | REAL ESTATE

COSTA RICA RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS

By Licda. Marcela Gurdián Immigration Experts

There are several ways a foreign citizen can obtain residency in Costa Rica.

O btaining residency is the way to go if you are serious about staying in Costa Rica, although some ex-pats who live in Costa Rica have become ¨perpetual tourists¨ and do a visa run to the border, mainly to Nicaragua every 90 days, this is a risky proposition because visas are renewed for ¨up to¨ 90 days but this is done at the discretion of the immigration person at the border who can give you less time on that visa renewal or even deny it and then you are in a bad position. There is of course a bureaucratic procedure to obtain your residency and of course there are the related expenses. How- ever; the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages. For example, only with a legal residency can a foreigner get a driver´s license, or be allowed to work legally, or get a post pay cell phone, or not need to carry around a passport, or get local prices at many places versus tourist prices, etc., etc., so it all begins to add up. Let´s see some of the various ways you can obtain residency: TEMPORARY RESIDENCY: PENSIONADO: Requires a monthly income of US$1000 per month. This

would be from a permanent fixed in- come like a pension like private sector, government or social security benefits. RENTISTA: Requires a monthly in- come of US$2500 per month and in- cludes spouse and children under 25 years of age. This category requires a permanent and stable source of in- come equal to or above US$2500 for two years which equals US$60,000 and is renewable. An international and recognized bank or financial institution must issue you a letter that states this or you can deposit the US$60,000 in a local bank and can take out $2500 per month. SPOUSE: Granted to the Spouse of a Costa Rican citizen under article 73 of the Immigration Law. WORK RELATED: Technical workers, Managers, Executives, Specialized workers, etc. of a company established in Costa Rica. INVESTORS: Foreigners who pur- chase Property for $200,000 or more can apply for the status of Investor by

presenting the proper documentation to Immigration. SPECIALIZED: Professional, Scientif- ic, and other such specialized individu- als deemed of value to the country. RELIGIOUS: Persons who are part of duly accredited religious orders and are so recognized by the Ministry of Foreign Relations and Culture. PRESS & SPORTS: International Press Correspondents & Recognized Sportsmen PERMANENT RESIDENCY: Permanent residency is a migratory condition that allows the person who obtains it, to remain indefinitely in the country and with the freedom to work. Persons eligible to apply for this type of residency are those whose parents or children are Costa Rican citizens. The other persons eligible are those who have had a Temporary Residency for 3 consecutive years. PLEASE VISIT OUR website for more details: www.costaricarealestatemagazine.com

22 COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE

MONTAÑA DEL SOL

SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA $5,900,000 5 BEDROOMS, 7+ BATHROOMS 12,665 SQUARE FEET ON 8.9 ACRES

Casa Montana del Sol, a modern luxury estate in the hills of Santa Ana, is one of Costa Rica’s “Top 10 Luxury Homes” with unrivaled modern architecture you will not find elsewhere in the country. Combine the stunning avant-garde design, with absolutely breathtaking views, an ultra-convenient location, and the complete privacy and security of being at the top of a private community surrounded by a 20,000 acre nature reserve, and you have San Jose’s most desirable and private residence. Casa Montaña del Sol, was originally designed by the German Swiss Architect J. Van Wilpe circa 1967, and then completely renovated by renown American Architect Mark A. Tarmey of 4m Design Group out of Florida in 2011, with additions including a dramatically cantilevered upper two stories, which takes advantage of commanding views to the San Jose valley from a nearly 5,000 foot elevation. The casa is approximately 8,307± square feet and sits on approximately .68 acres. More land is available if desired. This beautifully decorated home has four levels boasting 5+ beautiful bedrooms, 7 full baths, and 2 half baths. There are large gathering spaces which are connected by two glass-enclosed stairwells, one of which wraps around a new elevator. With high ceilings, and floor to ceiling glass walls, natural lighting fills the home, and remarkable design features, such as a glass floor for the suspended dining area in the cantilevered section of the house, and a Jacuzzi off the side of the large master add to the allure. The lowest floor hosts the pool cabana bath and a small entertainment kitchen, and is well suited for indoor and outdoor engagements. The pool area includes a private sun deck for sunbathing. Additionally, the lower level provides a small apartment for the resident Housekeeper and Caretaker, both separated from the family spaces. The casa is designed for a larger pool with sun orientations for privacy and full and partial sun exposures. The existing outdoor areas currently contains a large hot-tub in a secluded garden setting. The casa is located in Parque Montaña del Sol, one of the oldest private communities in San Jose with an unbeatable location. From the home, you are literally within just minutes of the best amenities of Santa Ana, Escazu, and with convenient access to the international airport as well. Parque Montana Del Sol also offers the utmost in privacy and security for the owners, and this distinctive home is located near the top of the community where there is complete privacy. From the home you will see no other neighbors, and you hear only the sounds of nature. We invite you experience peerless modern luxury in harmony with nature at Casa Montana del Sol. www.hiddenbayrealty.cr/listings/montana-del-sol-modern-luxury-home

Kurt Hocker +506 8885-2525 Kurt@investment.co.cr • www.hiddenbayrealty.cr Brokers Welcome

ARTICLE | REAL ESTATE

A NEW BEGINNING IN COSTA RICA!

This is a year none of us will forget. What has happened has changed the world and everything in it. All our hopes, plans, and expectations have needed to be reevaluated.

24 COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE However, if you have been thinking of planning your retirement, those plans may seem to have been derailed as the markets sort themselves out, and it will take strong mindsets to feel confidence moving forward. On the other hand, this may also have caused you to take pause, to do a re-set and perhaps think about actually moving your retirement plan forward. Perhaps now is the time to make that decision, to think about your quality of life and how and where N onetheless, the sun still rises every morning, babies are be- ing born and we continue to hear about wonderful and random acts of kindness - we will continue to find joy in the smallest of things, because we have to. Shelagh Duncan Royal Palm Interiors Next to the BCR Bank-Uvita de OSA - 2743-8323 www.royalpalminteriors.com Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/RoyalPalmInteriors

80 years, and you must already know about our Happiness Factor! Costa Rica’s decision to abolish their army in 1948 and direct their budget towards education and healthcare is paying off, and the evidence is shown in how quickly this pandemic was con- tained. Living here is not cheaper than other Latin American countries - but one thing Costa Rica is able to offer is greater value for money! Quality of life has a value, safety and peace of mind have value, being able to become part of a local community and the feeling of be- longing has value. We are a safe, democratic and politi- cally stable country, so our financial in- stitutions are sound. Because of this, many major corporations have decided to make sizable investments here, both financially and physically, with major production and distribution facilities. Our well educated, skilled and largely bilingual population is a rich resource for these multinationals.

you want to spend your future. When we think about the different places to retire there are many factors to consider, and now more than ever healthcare is top of mind. Costa Rica has stood out a full head and shoulders above many more de- veloped countries in the way they have handled this current crisis. Back in Feb- ruary 2020 Costa Rica had began prep- arations for dealing with the Coronavi- rus outbreak before it was even known to have arrived in the country! Those of us who chose CR as our adoptive country are indeed proud of the leader- ship, determination and plain common sense shown by those in power, as well as the Costa Rican people themselves. This small country of less than 5 mil- lion enjoys free elections, freedom of speech, free education and has more than 50 universities. It has universal and private healthcare, and it is worth remembering that Costa Rica offers some of the best health care in Latin America. Life expectancy here is about

Continued Page 36

DISCOVER CENTRAL PACIFIC

J aco Beach is located just over an hour away when you take High- way 27 from San José. Excellent roads and a variety of scenery along the way, along with being the nearest major beach town to the capital city, make this an extremely popular getaway for both Costa Ricans and visiting foreigners from North America and from Europe. After the 2008 crisis Jaco faded some- what but in the last couple of years it has rebounded with great strength and this of course makes it an ideal place to vacation in as well as to invest in by purchasing a vacation rental or a win- ter getaway home as well as being a great retirement spot due to the many available attractions, both in Playa Jacó as well as in the nearby towns such as Playa Hermosa, Esterillos and Herra- dura. Since its beginnings as the first developed beach resort area it has at- tracted a variety of people due to the many choices for entertainment and sports and recreation that the area of- fers. Several canopy tours such as

to all price ranges so there is something for everyone. All that fun tired you out, no problem, as there are several Spas to choose from to rejuvenate your body and get you looking good. A new devel- opment is Jaco Walk which combines a variety of shops including souvenirs with a Food area that has some great eating options. All these attractions as well as the proximity to San José are making the Jaco Beach area a grow- ing community and a great place to buy property in.

Vista Los Sueños can offer a variety of adventure tours, ATV rides, rappel and waterfall visits. Surfing is another ma- jor attraction here with many shops for rentals and purchases as well as les- sons and several excellent beaches to choose from. Horseback riding, bird watching, nature walks, kayaking and of course an ample variety of Sports-Fish- ing operators to choose from will keep your days very busy and fun. When nighttime comes you can find a very extensive list of restaurants to choose from including Mono Verde right on the main drag which is one of our favorites for good food and people watching. Walking up and down the main street (which is only 2 blocks from the beach) you will be delighted by the variety of shops you can find from one end to the other. Feel like dancing or listening to music? Great, we have you covered with many places to choose from right on the main street as well as a couple of Hotel Casinos to enjoy. The area offers an ample supply of hotels which cater

Photo by Irving Dávila

28 COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE

FEATURED LISTINGS

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BRAND NEW UNOBSTRUCTED OCEAN VIEWS CONDO JACO, COSTA RICA Light and bright living in this MODERN BEACH CONDO. Two generous bedrooms, two full baths. Ocean view elevator in this complex with only 21 units. Super modern glass enclosed balcony so you will not miss any of the STUNNING SUNSETS AND VIEWS. Price Lowered to USD $425,000

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ARTICLE | REAL ESTATE

WORLD CLASS DENTAL SERVICES IN BEAUTIFUL JACO BEACH Dr. Darío Chaves opened his practice in 2002. Since then, he has had one goal in mind: to offer his patients the best dental care available in the country. 18 years later, his mission has not changed due to his constant research and commitment.

H e graduated from the University of Costa Rica, one of the most prestigious and renowned universities in Latin America. Dr. Darío Chaves has taken his practice to the top, integrating digital dentistry in his daily practice in order to provide his patients with the best treatments. His practice keeps up with the top of the line treatments and the newest technology available. His commitment to his work, has also brought him to implement cosmetic dentistry after taking courses in the United States. Lately, the most requested services from patients have been CAD/CAM porcelain crowns and veneers manufactured in one single visit. But, Dr. Darío Chaves also offers fixed bridges, surgical guided implants, root canal therapy and clear aligners that replace the traditional orthodontic systems. All these services are complemented with great personalized service and top-notch equipment such as painless anesthesia, CEREC 3D intraoral scanner, and 3D X-rays. We are proud to say that we specialize in assisting our patients to enjoy beautiful and healthy smiles in our state- of-the art facilities, a completely whole new dental experience for our patients who will benefit from our leading and most innovative equipment. Dr. Darío Chaves´ clinic is located in Jacó, Costa Rica, a beach town just an hour drive from the Juan Santamaría International Airport. Jacó is considered one of the most developed beach towns in Costa Rica with beautiful beaches, magnificent nature and a privileged location with all year-long tropical weather. Accommodations vary from beach-front hotels to rental condos and many amazing restaurants at which to experience from local cuisine to international fusions. One of the main draws of Jaco is the seemingly endless list of activities available. Everything from ATV and zip-line tours to catamaran cruises, golf, surf lessons, paddle board, snorkeling, sport- fishing, and many more activities which can be booked from one of the areas` tour operators, making Jacó beach and Darío Chaves Dental Clinic the perfect place to get a dental vacation plan. We can be reached at info@chavesdentalcare. com (ask about our plans and benefits).

34 COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE

36 COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE If you are concerned about falling into the ‘retirement boredom trap’ there are lots of volunteer opportunities through schools, churches, animal rescue centers, beach clean-ups and many others in various expat communities all over the country. There is also golf, horseback riding and yoga opportunities, local markets, mov- ARTICLE | REAL ESTATE Investment here will be even more at- tractive after this crisis has passed sim- ply because foreigners will always want to get away to somewhere exotic, either to their vacation properties or for their retirement. When retirement calls, you want to be ready to answer. Yes, you will need to do your due diligence, and yes healthcare and political stability will fac- tor into these decisions, but people will always want beautiful homes in beautiful and safe locales. Real estate here is, and always will be, in high demand. With our beautiful beaches, jungles, mountains and wildlife, we offer many types of experiences for expats looking to relocate and live over- seas. Unlike some other countries, foreigners and locals have exactly the same rights and follow the same laws when it comes to purchasing real estate in Costa Rica. In fact, property ownership is protected by the Costa Rican constitution. You don’t even need to live or be a legal resident in Costa Rica to own property or buy a business. Expats can own property outright in their own name or in the name of a corpora- tion, and you do not need a local partner, except in cases of beachfront conces- sion properties, where there are special rules. Deciding where you want to settle may take time because of all the options. Cos- ta Rica is typically divided into five main regions, Central Valley, Gold Coast in the north, Arenal, the Southern Zone and Limon, and according to the Huffington Post, the most popular areas that expats gravitate to are Jacó, Tamarindo, Domini- cal, Uvita, Ojochal, Escazú, Atenas, Gre- cia and Puerto Viejo. Your preferred climate will also play a part. The beach areas can get pretty hot but living even a little way up into the mountains along the coast will offer cool- er temperatures as well as spectacular vistas. Central Valley has the culture and history, and the jungles and mountains have their own seductive lure.

ies, and cultural festivals. San José is the capital and the largest city in Costa Rica. It is brimming with cultural diversity and has great restaurants and beautiful historic neighborhoods waiting to be explored. From ballet to classical concerts, Big-Name entertainment and museums that are filled with hundreds of years of history, San José has it all. Even if you decide to live in one of the coastal areas, the city is just a few hours away by car, so it is close enough for weekend getaways. Costa Rica is also just a short flight for visits to family and friends back home, and for them to visit you! As well as the quality of healthcare, cost of living and quality of life, evaluate the tax environment of any country you are considering. Costa Rica is not consid- ered a pure tax haven, but it is recog- nized as tax-friendly enough to have been referred to as the Switzerland of Central America! Property taxes are very low, and your retirement income is not taxed here: only income that comes from a profitable business incurs tax. Residency in Costa Rica is an easy pro- cess, and because foreigners can pur- chase businesses as well as homes, they can use those investments to gain their legal residency. Some of the benefits with having your residency include quali- fying for a national driving license, easier banking processes and ease of travelling in and out of the country, without those 90-day visa restrictions. When all of this is over and we step back and review the new world that emerges, that will be when we can evaluate the performance of any country. I believe Costa Rica will stand out well for how it

handled the crisis. Yes, the tourism sector has taken a big hit the same as in many other beautiful countries, but many people have just postponed their trips - not cancelled them. Medical tourism will continue to be huge because our prices are a fraction of the US and the quality is every bit as good. We are still very much on the tour- ism radar! When the financial crisis of 2008 hit, Cos- ta Rica quickly recovered and its rapid growth in investment and popularity has not waned. Construction and the sale of luxury homes and developments are continuing to increase, faster than ever. Smart investors saw opportunities back then and acted. A Spanish saying sums it up, “Pescadores inteligentes saben como pescar en aguas turbulentas” - smart fishermen know how to catch fish in troubled waters. Sadly, it is a fact that out of every catas- trophe comes opportunity, and if you are looking for where to invest, check out the prestigious International Living retirement rankings. Costa Rica was ranked #2 last year in International Living’s Global Retirement Index*. Panama came out at #1, how- ever their environment does not enjoy anywhere near the same level of stew- ardship that Costa Rica’s does. I admit that I am a little biased, living here for the last 13 years has given me a deeper appreciation of just how special Costa Rica is. It is not paradise; nothing is, but when this pandemic hit I would not have wanted to be anywhere else. We have an expres- sion you may already know, “Pura Vida”! That just about sums it up.

Article from Page 24

CENTRAL PACIFIC

PLAYA HERRADURA

Photo by Irving Dávila

B efore the late 1990´s Playa Herradura was a quiet rural beach used mainly by local fishermen and local tourists and campers, however with the arrival of The Los Sueños Marina and Golf Course and the Marriott Hotel this sleepy beach was thrown into the spotlight.  Now it is like two separate Herradura beaches that have sprung up as you come in on the one single road.  To the North of the road you have a World Class Resort with a marina teeming with rows of luxury yachts and sportfishing boats.  On shore you have a major hotel, tons of luxury condos and homes and an awesome golf course where golf buggy carts are the norm but to the South of the road you find a mostly local crowd and some quaint bars and restaurants and near the shore lots of small local fishing boats.  A major development is in the works on this south-end and could change that significantly in the near future.

Photo by Hernán Carazo

38 COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE

Sweet Home Costa Rica provides all the services you need: -Vacation Rentals: Condominiums and Luxury Homes, in-house massages, chefs, stock groceries, transfers, concierge services, golf, sportfishing, tours, elec- tric cart and car rentals - Buying/Selling a Property: Real Estate agency, Legal Advisory, Property Management, Cleaning and Maintenance crew, Interior Designer, Architecture and Builders, Rental program. We pride ourselves on providing our customers and clients with the utmost professionalism, knowledge, and support. - We look forward to welcoming you to our family.

SWEET HOME COSTA RICA, offers Real Estate, Vacation Rentals, and Property Management services not only in Los Suenos Resort & Marina, but also in nearby areas Herradura, Jaco and Hermosa Beach. Getting to the Central Pacific of Costa Rica from Juan San- tamaria airport takes around one hour and twenty minutes in a van and to Los Suenos about 30 minutes by helicopter. Los Sueños Resort and Marina is a 1,100-acre master planned desti- nation resort community with a private 600-acre rainforest reserve; a five star Marriott hotel; 18 hole Iguana golf course; over 600 luxury residences, including homes, lots, condominiums and villas; a full service 200-slip international marina with storage and dry dock; an exclusive Beach Club for residents and their guests; a Marina Village with several stores, Restaurants, bar, Bank with ATM service and much more.

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PROPERTIES FOR SALE

TIME TO CHECK OFF YOUR BUCKET LIST, BUY A BEAUTIFUL BEACHFRONT PROPERTY IN COSTA RICA! HERE ARE SOME OF OUR EXCLUSIVE PROPERTIES INSIDE LOS SUEÑOS AND IN THE SURROUNDING AREA. PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE OUR LISTINGS AND SPECIAL OFFERS.

$775,000

$340,000

$595,000

$160,000

PROPERTIES FOR RENT

LET´S TRAVEL AND ENJOY LIFE AGAIN, THE BEST TROPICAL BEACH AREA IS WAITING FOR YOU!

US Office: + (954) 999-4594 WhatsApp:+ (506) 8821-0813 CR Office: + (506) 4700-4663 (HOME)

info@sweethomecr.com

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CENTRAL PACIFIC

PLAYA MANUEL ANTONIO & QUEPOS

42 COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE tions you will reach the town of Quepos, a small but lively town offering Hotels and Restaurants plus a large Marina with many excellent restaurants and other services like scuba diving and boat charters and boasting some of the best Sportfishing in the World. Just past Quepos you start to head uphill toward H eading South from Playa Jacó and passing Parrita and miles and miles of African Palm planta-

Manuel Antonio Beach which is only a short distance away. Here you will find truly superb views, awesome beaches and World Class Dining and Accommo- dations. It is also the home to many im- pressive Oceanview developments and homes. Developments like the upcom- ing Islas are the perfect choice, either as a vacation rental income property or as your personal retirement or reloca- tion dream residence. What more can

you ask for than Palm-fringed beaches as far as you can see and behind you rain forest covered mountains. Manuel Antonio boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the World. It was declared a National Park in 1972 and is a must see on any Costa Rica travelers list of places to visit and enjoy! With a narrow penin- sula and protected coves this National Park encompasses nearly 700 hectares chuck full of flora and fauna.