Puntarenas BeachThe finalized master plan for Phase 1 of Las Colinas de Miramar (a.k.a. Hills of Miramar) was just release on May 1, 2008.  Download Phase 1 Master Plan Map to your computer for review.

Phase 1 is made up of 123 lots sized around 1.25 acres each, and with 52 of those lots having ocean views.  Pricing is expected to be released within the next month, but initial expectations are that ocean view lots will start at $60,000, and other lots will start at $30,000.

Notice on the map that the commercial area that is situated near the gated entrance, next to the equestrian stables. 

Also new, though not on the map:  In the past, there was talk of building a golf course in the future, and it looks like that will be happening sooner than expected.  More details on the golf course to come in upcoming months.

Stay tuned for more updates on Las Colinas de Miramar.

Posted by costaricarealestateexpert | Uncategorized | May 3, 2008 | No Comments (Leave a Comment)

Ventimiglia in Playas Del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa RicaI have spoken to dozens of individuals who are looking at buying real estate in Costa Rica.  I have looked at hundreds of properties and developments in Costa Rica.  Of course, everyone’s criteria is varied, but there is a “magic number” that keeps popping up, like the universe recorded it somehow and keeps playing it back to me.

That “magic number” is 200 - or more specifically, $200,000.

Mountain acreage adjacent to La Cangreja parkCosta Rica has a large number of fine and luxury properties, priced at $400K and above.  What is more difficult to find are properties priced at a more modest price tag of $200,000 or less.  Over and over I hear from people that they want to find properties in the $200,000 range - it is like that recording that I told you about.

House at Costa Del Sol for under $200KThe luxury properties are exactly that - luxurious - but there is still the average buyer out there who wants a modest, safe, and clean Costa Rican property, but doesn’t want to pay a fortune for it.  For the beginner, finding these properties seems like a daunting, almost impossible task.  When you search the Internet, a score of ads and search results pop up for high-priced, luxury properties, making it appear as if Costa Rica is not for the average person any longer.  Unfortunately, that’s untrue.

Guanacaste Country Club Golf Course & Club HouseThe key is working with people in the know - people who can network with real estate folks all around Costa Rica to find those properties.  These properties do exist, and there are quite a few of them!

So that is one of my goals - to find these high quality, inexpensive properties priced around $200,000, or less.  My list is ever-growing and diverse, satisfying a large group of buyers who want to invest in the tropical paradise that is Costa Rica.

Posted by costaricarealestateexpert | Uncategorized | March 16, 2008 | No Comments (Leave a Comment)

Red eyed tree frogFor YEARS now, Costa Rica has been a favorite place for retirees to settle down - either part time or full time.  These lucky people discovered that Costa Rica has a lot more to offer than friendly people, gorgeous beaches, and fresh squeezed fruit juice every morning!

During this seminar, we’ll tell you why so many people have been, and currently are, interested in Costa Rica as a retirement spot, and also how even those who own a modest home can live in luxury, peace, and healthfulness in this paradise called Costa Rica.

During this presentation, I’ll go over some great vacation, investment, and retirement opportunities available in Costa Rica, as well as:

  • An introduction to Costa Rica and why people are retiring there.
  • Staying healthy and worry-free in Costa Rica for your entire retirement.
  • Easy immigration.
  • Introduction to retirement properties.
  • Discuss financing options and products.

Everyone is welcome!  Limited seating, so RSVP now!

WHEN:  Wednesday, April 16, 2008 at 7:00 pm (please show up at least 15 minutes early for sign-in).

WHERE:  Prudential Financial Offices - Computax Tower
21250 Hawthorne Boulevard, Suite 500
Torrance, CA  90503

ENTRANCE FEE:  Free, but we please ask that you please bring a non-perishable food donation for the Los Angeles Food Bank.

RSVP:  Please RSVP to Chris Turkmany at 310-516-3444 or by filling out the form below:

RSVP for Costa Rica for Retirees - Torrance (April 16, 2008)
  1.  (required)
  2.  (valid email required)

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Posted by costaricarealestateexpert | Events, Important Bulletins | March 14, 2008 | No Comments (Leave a Comment)

Did you know that there is no MLS in Costa Rica? So finding your dreamhome there (or any other Latin American country for that matter) is not just a matter of contacting any real estate agent in Costa Rica and getting access to the country’s available real estate - that doesn’t happen and won’t for a very long time.Instead, you need to be working with someone who has contacts with real estate agents, property management companies, and developers all over the country!  That happens to be what I can offer my clients.  With my involvement with Compass Properties, I can offer properties in new developments that we have reviewed as being a safe purchase.  Also, my growing network of English-speaking, hardworking, service-oriented real estate agents throughout the country allow me to help you find specific Costa Rica property.

And if you are looking to buy a vacation/investment property, you’ll definitely want to use a reliable property management company that can fill and take care of your property as efficiently as possible.  I can help you there too.

By the way, this goes for commercial property and developers as well.  My contacts deal with strip malls, apartment buildings, office buildings, hotels, and other commercial properties.  We can also help developers find and obtain raw land, as well as assist them with commercial lending.

So if you are looking for any real estate in Costa Rica - from $100K to several million - then myself and my network would be more than happy to assist you!

Posted by costaricarealestateexpert | For Developers, For Investors, Services | March 6, 2008 | No Comments (Leave a Comment)

Discover Jaco

4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS - LAND ONLY

BOOK OR INQUIRE ABOUT THIS BUYING TOUR

From around $298

Per person, double occupancy.

Pictures/Slideshows
Sunset over Jaco Beach
 
Summary
Explore downtown Jaco where you will find a variety of shopping and dining.
Relax on the beach with a good book or get some surf lessons from one of the many surf shops in town.
Take in the nightlife at one of the dance clubs or bars.
And while in Jaco, set aside a few hours to take a look at some great properties which are well suited for vacation, investment, and even retirement.

BOOK OR INQUIRE ABOUT THIS BUYING TOUR

 
Properties You Can See On This Tour

BOOK OR INQUIRE ABOUT THIS BUYING TOUR

 
Other Related Resources
2007/08 Jaco Rental Analysis Worksheet
Financing Options for Buying Costa Rica Real Estate

 

BOOK OR INQUIRE ABOUT THIS BUYING TOUR

 
 
 
All prices are subject to change at any time.
Availability is not guaranteed.  Book far enough in advance to avoid disappointment
All information contained herein is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be verified independently.
Itinerary
DAY 1 SAN JOSE/JACO BEACH.  You will be transferred to your hotel in Jaco Beach

DAY 2 JACO BEACH.
  Set aside a couple of hours for a guided property tour of some fantastic real estate right in Jaco.  In this collection of properties, you’ll find they are well suited for retirement, vacation, and investment homes.  The rest of the day is free to discover Jaco. (B)

DAY 3 JACO BEACH.  Free days.  Take an optional tour or relax on the beach - the choice is yours (B)

DAY 4 JACO BEACH/SAN JOSE.  Return to San Jose (B)

BOOK OR INQUIRE ABOUT THIS BUYING TOUR

 
Hotel Info
Price per person from

HOTEL TWIN SINGLE
Best Western Jaco (F) $217 $324
Hotel Amapola (F)    
  Standard Room  $281  $480
  Junior Suite  $371  $661
  Villa  $516  $950
Punta Leona Hotel del la Playa (F)    
  Slvamar - room  $298  $450
Club del Mar (F)  $382  $642
Villa Caletas - boutique (SF)    
  Standard Room  $453  $748
  Villa  $535  $911
  Jr. Suite  $687  $1216
Xandari by the Pacific (SF)    
  Garden Villa  $524  $861
  Beachfront Ultra  $693  $1199
Los Suenos Marriott (DLX)  $404  $727

Ask about other hotels.

 
Discover Jaco - Optional Tours
Pre-book your optional tours to avoid disappointment. Optional tour prices per person

Manuel Antonio National Park wal (closed Mondays) $48
Carara National Park  $68
Canopy tour  $82
Tortuga Island (L)  $114

BOOK OR INQUIRE ABOUT THIS BUYING TOUR

Posted by admin | Travel | February 14, 2008 | No Comments (Leave a Comment)

Last updated February 12, 2008 

Costa Rica has an excellent healthcare system that consists of private and public (government run) medical facilities.

Here is an ever-expanding list of medical facilities throughout Costa Rica:

Cartago

Clinica Biblica (satellite site)
Phone:  506-551-0511

Doctor on site, as well as a pharmacy. 

Heredia

Clinica Biblica (satellite site)
Phone:  506-260-4959

Doctor on site, as well as a pharmacy.

Jaco

Clinic CARE
Phone:  506-643-4300
Email:  emergenciascare@racsa.co.cr

This is a private clinic intended primarily for emergency care, also offering ambulance transport services to larger facilities in San Jose.

Clinica Hospital Santa Catalina (satellite site)
Phone:  506-643-5059
Email:  info@gruposantacatalina.com
Website:  http://www.gruposantacatalina.com/eng/index.php
Location:  400 este Pops Jacó, Puntarenas

This is a satellite facility of the much larger Clinica Hospital Santa Catalina located in San Jose.  This facility boasts many English speaking, qualified dentists and doctors

San Francisco de Dos Ríos

Clinica Biblica (satellite site)
Phone:  506-218-0035

Doctor on site, as well as a pharmacy.

Clinica Hospital Santa Catalina (satellite site)
Phone:  506-218-1717
Email:  info@gruposantacatalina.com
Website:  http://www.gruposantacatalina.com/eng/index.php

Location:  San Francisco de Dos Ríos, del parque Okayama 50 sur

This is a satellite facility of the much larger Clinica Hospital Santa Catalina located in San Jose.  This facility boasts many English speaking, qualified dentists and doctors

San Jose

Clinica Biblica (main facility)
Phone:  506-522-1000 or 800-911-0800
Fax:  506-258-7184
Email:  info@clinicabiblica.com
Website:  http://www.clinicabiblica.com
Insurance:

  • Blue Cross/Blue Shield
  • Cigna International
  • Aetna Global
  • United HealthCare
  • Prudential
  • Humana
  • Secure Horizons
  • See more…
  • Expects to be affiliated with Medicare in 2008

Staffed with highly trained doctors.  Facilities include an ER, maternity ward, MRI equipment, and a lab.  The hospital is currently adding a large, new wing. 

Clinica Biblica also has an International Department to specifically provide excellent customer service tailored to the foreigner.  They also have a corporate partnership with HomeWatch, which provides specialized home care services for the elderly, patients recovering from surgery, people recovering from plastic surgery, and a host of other situations.  Check with your long term care insurance plan to see if they will cover the services from HomeWatch.

Clinica Catolica (a.k.a. Hospital La Catolica)
Phone:  506-246-3000
Fax:  506-283-6171
Email:  info@clinicacatolica.com
Website:  http://www.hospitallacatolica.com/eng/indexeng.html
Location:  Guadelupe, suburb of San Jose.

Complete hospital and emergency services 24/7. 

Clinica Hospital Santa Catalina
Phone:  506-250-5059
Website:  http://www.gruposantacatalina.com/eng/index.php
Location:  Costado Este de la plaza de deportes de Gravilias, Desamparados, San José

This private hospital provides emergency services, dentistry, opthalmic services, gynecology, dermatology, cardiology, and a number of other medical services.  They also boast a medical imaging center and a pharmacy which is open 24/7. 

Clinica Hospital Santa Catalina also has satellite offices in San Francisco and Jaco.

Hospital CIMA San Jose
Phone:  506-208-1000
Fax:  506-208-1001
Email:  cima@hospitalcima.com
Website:  Click here to view the English version of CIMA’s website, translated by Google.
Location:  Escazu of San Jose.  See map.

CIMA is the most well known medical facility in all of Costa Rica, and for good reason.  It was built around 2000 and is affiliated with Baylor University in Texas.  CIMA has all the modern conveniences of a hospital in North America, with high tech equipment and well trained doctors and nurses.

CIMA provides emergency services, surgeries, laboratory services, psychiatry, physiotherapy, medical imaging, a pharmacy, and numerous other services.

San Pedro

Clinica Biblica (satellite site)
Phone:  506-283-6058
Location:  San Pedro mall

Doctor on site, as well as a pharmacy.

Posted by costaricarealestateexpert | FAQs & Lists, For Seniors, Health & Healthcare | February 8, 2008 | No Comments (Leave a Comment)

Through our travel professionals, we have to offer a 7 day “Taste of Costa Rica” land-only tour originating from the Daniel Oduber International airport in Liberia, Guanacaste, Costa Rica.  Pricing for this tour starts at $769 CAD (similar to US funds), per person.  Airfare is extra.

Arenal

From Liberia, you will head to intimate Arenal Lodge which offers up some fantastic views of Arenal Volcano.  During your 3 day stay you will have a chance to reconnect with nature, as lush landscaping will surround you.

Discover your wild side as you fly through the treetops on an Arenal Paraiso Canopy Tour.  In addition to the thrilling ride you’ll get riding along cables from treetop platforms, the views will be unsurpassed.

On the Wildlife River Cruise, you’ll get to see unique and splendid wildlife that until then had only been seen by you on the television.

Pacific Coast

The remainder of your stay will be at your choice of one of the following hotels along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica:

  1. Tamarindo Diria Beach & Golf Resort
  2. Barcelo Langosta Beach
  3. Flamingo Beach Resort

While here, grab your sunscreen and a beach towel and bask in the warm, golden sun!  Or grab a round of golf before lunch on the patio of a local restaurant.  How about a little shopping?  The point is, take it easy and let Costa Rica take care of you!

And while you are in the area, falling in love with Costa Rica, why not take a moment to visit some fantastic properties in the area.  Minutes from Tamarindo you’ll find Naturalia, a luxury condo that’s just a short walk to the beach.

Not much further away you’ll also find Colinas Del Coyolar, a gated community of lots where you can buy and build for under $200,000!  Colinas Del Coyolar is perfect for any type of buyer - investor, second home owner, or a retiree. 

Your stay comes to an end as you return to Daniel Oduber International airport in Liberia for your flight back home.

Make Your Plans Today!

Are you ready for your break from winter?  Are you ready to find your Costa Rican vacation home?  Then contact us today for a quote to get your Taste of Costa Rica!

Posted by admin | For Canadians, For Investors, For Seniors, Travel | February 1, 2008 | No Comments (Leave a Comment)

Over $60K in equity!

$199,000 $165,000

Just lowered another $34,000!  Price to Sell!

Location
Around 20 minutes South of the popular tourist town of Jaco, Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
 
Pictures/Slideshow

 
Local Sights/Activities
  • 3 minute walk to Blue Ribbon awarded beach
  • Jaco Beach 20 minutes away
  • Costa Rica’s prized national park, Manuel Antonio, less than an hour away
  • Less than a mile from new commercial center where you’ll find restaurants, shops, and groceries.
 
Related Resources
Costa Rica Real Estate FAQ
Costa Rica Real Estate Financing Options
 
INQUIRE ABOUT THIS PROPERTY

Costa Del Sol Property Inquiry
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Description
This is a rare and fantastic opportunity at the fabulous Costa Del Sol community, just 20 minutes south of popular Jaco Beach. It was recently reduced to $165,000 from $199,000, which was already below market!At Costa Del Sol, you’ll find a fantastic community which is perfect for getting to know your neighbor.  Meet up at the pool, plan BBQ’s with your friends, or catch some rays at the beach, just a short walk past the palm trees.  Meet others by starting a tennis club, playing on the community tennis courts.

And when you want a little more action, head north towards Jaco for dining, dancing, surfing, or to take in some of the tours.

This house is unlived in and has fantastic terracotta tile throughout.  Each bedroom has its own bathroom, finished with granite countertops and a tile & glass shower surround.

The kitchen has hardwood cabinetry and also granite countertops.  The adjacent dining and living room make for a perfect atmosphere for entertaining, with the fresh ocean breeze flowing in through the patio doors.

From the roomy dining and living rooms, 2 sets of patio doors lead you out to the backyard.  It currently has a grass lawn, but it is large enough for a pool.  Or grow a lush, tropical garden that you can escape to.

Full furnishing packages can be provided for about 10% the cost of the home.  Contact us for more details.

Other homes in the community are selling in the $260’s, so this is a fantastic deal that won’t last! 

Contact me TODAY so we can get you over to see the property.  And don’t forget our full service travel agents who can assist you in your travel needs!

 
Property/Unit Amenities
  • Lot #34
  • Bedrooms:  2
  • Bathrooms:  2 1/2
  • Square Feet:  1366 under air
  • Terracotta tile throughout the house
  • Solid wood doors and cabinets
  • Granite countertops in kitchen and bathrooms
  • Tile and glass shower in master bathrooms
  • Plenty of natural light from numerous windows
  • Large patio doors opening to back yard with grass lawn.
  • Washer/dryer hookup in linen closet
  • 2 car carport
  • Lot Sq Ft:  5403
  • Furnishing packages available for about 10% of the property cost
 
Community Amenities
  • Gated front entrance
  • Pool
  • BBQ area with granite prep station in open air pavilion.  Located by pool.
  • Tennis courts
  • 3 minute walk to Blue Ribbon beach
  • Lush landscaping
 
Floor Plan
This home in Costa Del Sol is the Marquis model.Costa Del Sol’s Marquis Model Floor Plan
 
Price
JUST REDUCED AGAIN!  $199,000 $165,000
 
Financing
Costa Rica Real Estate Financing OptionsContact us for referrals to loan providers in your area - Canada, US, Europe, or Costa Rica!Typical financing:

Note:  These numbers are estimates only.  It is recommended that you get an accurate quote from a loan provider.

Price:  $165,000
25% down:  $41,250
Interest Rate:  8.25
Term of Loan:  25 years
Monthly Loan Payment:  $975.71

DOWNLOAD Loan Calculator for Costa Del Sol Home - Lot 34

 
Rent/Property Management
Available.  For more information please contact us.

Posted by admin | $100K - $199K, Beachfront, Jaco Real Estate, Just Listed | January 29, 2008 | No Comments (Leave a Comment)

What if I told you that it was very possible that you could build a new home, just minutes from the beach, the popular tourist town of Tamarindo, and under 40 minutes from the Daniel Oduber International airport in Liberia for under $200,000?  Would you believe me?  Well, it’s true at the gated community of Colinas Del Coyolar!

The developer of Colinas Del Coyolar is offering incentives to its buyers for:

  1. Using the developer also as the home builder, and using one of their attractive home plans.
  2. Having the developer build this new home within a year of purchasing the lot from them.

When you use the Colinas Del Coyolar developer as the home builder, you get an 8% discount on the purchase of the lot.  And when you have them build your home within a year of purchasing the lot, you get a 5% discount off of the building costs.

So, do you want to see how much it will cost for you to build a home at Colinas Del Coyolar?  Then download the Microsoft Excel spreadsheet below and play around with the numbers to see what your estimated building costs will be!

Download this Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet:  Estimated Building Costs & Worksheet for Colinas Del Coyolar

Colinas Del Coyolar home plans from the developer:

Exterior home style choices for Colinas Del Coyolar home plans from the developer:

Posted by costaricarealestateexpert | Downloads | January 23, 2008 | No Comments (Leave a Comment)

So, what do you think about taking a trip to Costa Rica to find your tropical dream home AND getting paid to do it.  It’s no joke - it’s true!

Compass Properties International and The Costa Rica Real Estate Expert will cover up to $2000 of your Costa Rica travel expenses when you buy a home through us*.  Do you know what kind of trip you can get for $2000?  That could cover a fun-filled, exciting, weeklong trip for two!

While you are on your trip to Costa Rica, you’ll be able to meet with Compass Properties’ colleagues and affiliates who will show you some amazing Costa Rican real estate:

  • Lots - build your custom dream home with all the luxuries, like granite countertops, tile floors, crown molding, fine hardwood cabinetry, and more!
  • Condos - Beachfront, beach close - your choice!  All located in some wonderful areas close to fantastic sights and activities.

 They will also be able to answer questions you may have about visiting your property, renting your property, maintaining your property, or even moving to your property.

Whether you have already made your travel plans, or would like one of our full-service travel professionals to help you, you can contact us to make arrangements to meet with one of our colleagues or affiliates in Costa Rica for a custom home tour, or to request more information.

Pura vida!

* Valid on select properties only.  Please inquire for more details.

Posted by costaricarealestateexpert | For Investors, For Seniors, Travel | January 7, 2008 | No Comments (Leave a Comment)

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