Costa Rica is a middle-income, developing economy, with a tradition of democracy. The life expectancy at birth here is one of the world’s highest—outstripping both the U.S. and the U.K., in fact. Tourist facilities are extensive, and because English is the second language for many Costa Ricans, the country feels visitor-friendly.
The land itself is mostly coastline—beaches galore and great surfing. And the weather is simply made for leisure. The climate here is both tropical and subtropical; the dry season is December to April; the rainy season is May to November. As you would expect, it’s cooler in the highlands.
Costa Rica is a nature-lover’s dream. The country has a progressive approach to conservation, which ensures that its jungles, with their renowned biodiversity, continue to be home to a truly mind-boggling assortment of species, from birds to butterflies, monkeys to wild cats, and hothouse flowers. Sea turtles nest along both coasts. Have you ever heard of a more enchanting place?
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Costa Rica Articles
Still Affordable: The Best Views in Costa RicaPosted on May 21, 2013 by Jason Holland
When you live in Costa Rica’s Southern Zone, the beach and the blue Pacific become a focal point.
A Costa Rican Lifestyle That Pays for Itself…Posted on May 1, 2013 by Margaret Summerfield
“You might wonder why I’m swapping Florida for Costa Rica,” Steve says, “and, you know, the answer is really simple. I’m more relaxed when I’m in Costa Rica.
Four Places Near the Water to Buy NowPosted on April 30, 2013 by Ronan McMahon
The first opportunity is a perfect bolthole if you’re looking for Caribbean living with a European flavor close to home. Direct and affordable morning flights from the U.S. will get you here in time to soak up early afternoon sunshine on the beach or bathe in the turquoise waters
Living in Jaco, Costa Rica: A Favorite With Expats and TouristsPosted on March 26, 2013 by Jason Holland
Located in the heart of the Central Pacific coast region of Costa Rica, Jaco (pronounced: ha-ko) has long been a favorite of vacationers and expats.
This lively beach town features several large resorts, as well as many options for longer-term residents, like condos, gated communities, and lots for building.The wide range of housing options in all price ranges, from budget to luxury, as well as many amenities and comforts of home, make living in Jaco, Costa Rica a great choice for lifestyle and retirement overseas.
Living in Manuel Antonio, Costa RicaPosted on March 26, 2013 by Jason Holland
The Manuel Antonio area on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast has been a long-time favorite of visitors. Just two hours from the capital San Jose on a well-maintained modern highway, Manuel Antonio is the site of the country’s most popular national park. In 2011, Forbes magazine named it one of the world’s best.At 4,000 acres, it’s a relatively small refuge and one of the smallest national parks
Live the Good Life In the World’s Blue ZonesPosted on March 25, 2013 by International Living
What’s the secret to a long, healthy, and enjoyable life? A group of researchers believe that residents of five Blue Zones around the world know it. They have the longest life spans on Earth and are less likely to suffer from heart disease, cancer, and other serious conditions.
Mansions and Luxury HomesPosted on February 25, 2013 by International Living
Oak floors, chandeliers, large fireplaces, and exposed wood beams are things you’d expect to find in a chateau. And this perfect country getaway in Normandy has them all. Built in 1881, it’s set on five acres and surrounded by a mixture of lush green pastures and the forest of Eu. There’s a fruit orchard and the Yres River runs through the property, with a bridge leading to a private island.
Three Lake View Properties in Costa Rica That Won’t Stay Cheap for Long…Posted on January 30, 2013 by Ronan McMahon
Today I’m going to tell you about one of my favorite places. It has some of the best real estate values right now. And I love spending time there. Back home, winter is gnashing its teeth. But in this place, it’s warm. Bright sunshine reflects on a mirror-flat lake.
Revealed: 3 Best Buys in Costa RicaPosted on January 14, 2013 by Margaret Summerfield
The 2 million tourists who come to Costa Rica each year probably think they know this country pretty well. They relax on pretty beaches, zip-line across the tree canopy, surf the wave of the mighty Pacific and trek through misty cloud forests. But most tourists tend to stick to well-known beach towns and the Central Valley. That’s not where you’ll find the best property values right now.
13 Great-Value Buys in the World’s Top HavensPosted on December 20, 2012 by International Living
Whether you dream of a pastel-painted, old colonial home surrounded by lush gardens or a super-modern condo just yards from the beach, in locations all over the planet you’ll find incredible value. Affordable, good-value real estate is a “stand-out” factor of the world’s best retirement havens.
Living in Tamarindo, Costa RicaPosted on December 14, 2012 by Jason Holland
Here in Tamarindo, on the northern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, everybody knows everybody. Long-term expats number in the hundreds. It’s a walkable little ‘burg—we can’t stroll through town without stopping several times to talk with friends—and the “Main Street” is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants run by Costa Ricans, Israelis, Argentinians, Italians, Americans, Canadians…
Costa Rica’s Southern Zone – Casitas for $136,000Posted on October 12, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
The terms in this Alert are valid until December 31. These casitas are charming little homes will be built in a Spanish colonial-style. Finishes will be high-end and the homes will be designed for comfortable living. Members of our group can knock $4,000 off the price.
FLASH ALERT: Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast (SOLD OUT)Posted on August 23, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
One member of our little group has the opportunity to lock down a 1.47-acre lot for only $42,000 in the best-in-class project on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast. The lot listed for $78,000. Now the owner is in a bind back home. He needs to sell fast. The developer has agreed to help facilitate him. That’s why I’m sending you this Flash Alert today.
Revealed: How to Buy Costa Rica for $556 a MonthPosted on August 3, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
There’s a special place on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast where bright, thick, green jungle canopy rolls down to a stretch of sandy beaches and rocky points. It’s truly stunning. While prices in places you’ll see in glossy magazines soared…prices here stayed low. It was difficult to get to. But a new smoothly paved coastal highway has changed that. And it’s nicer here.
Retirement Rescue: An Insider Real Estate Deal for Life-Changing ProfitsPosted on July 30, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Real Estate Trend Alert is dedicated to giving you the best investment opportunities in the world before most people are even aware of them…and below you will find information on just one of the many opportunities you’ll hear about from me as a RETA member. In this report I’ll tell you all about this great deal in Costa Rica.
An Insider, Off-Market Real Estate Deal in Costa RicaPosted on July 29, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
This week, 14 of your fellow members gathered at the Pacific Lots project in Costa Rica’s Southern Zone. They had two price lists: one for all the inventory at the project; the other, a list of special pricing for our little group on 14 handpicked lots.
A Costa Rican SecretPosted on July 27, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
The morning’s fresh ceviche is sharp and fragrant with coriander. Fifty minutes up the highway we passed a North American style service station. My contact convinced me to resist my strong coffee urges and hold off for fast food Costa Rica style. So, I ended up sitting under a palm tree, sand between my toes, eating $1.50 ceviche from a local vendor. There’s not much action on the beach.
Properties that Earn their KeepPosted on June 28, 2012 by anon
Every month we take a look at some of the properties available around the world. This time out, we’re highlighting properties that not only provide you with a roof over your head, but an income to boot. Escape to Ecuador’s Yunguilla Valley and surround yourself with blossoming fruit trees and fresh fish on your own tropical property.
Hunting for Property in Costa RicaPosted on June 14, 2012 by Jason Holland
If you’re looking for affordable property in Costa Rica, Lake Arenal certainly warrants a closer look. The 1,200-square-foot villa that has the lake view in the photo above is $195,000.
Trip to Costa Rica for 13 Members Only…Posted on June 6, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Along Costa Rica’s Southern Zone, the bright, thick, green jungle canopy rolls down to a coast of sandy beaches and rocky points. It’s truly stunning. One project along this coast stands out as the gold standard. It’s here that members of our group can buy with a down payment of $20,000 and interest-free monthly payments of $556. And where a small group (strictly limited to 13) of Real Estate Trend Alert members will gather this July 19-22.
Video: A Beautiful Property with Lake Views in Arenal, Costa Rica for $195,000Posted on May 24, 2012 by Jason Holland
In the video, you’ll see a beautiful property for sale on the lake in Arenal, Costa Rica. The views from the back porch are of the lake and the volcano at Arenal. Lake Arenal has an ideal climate—no AC needed, even on the hottest days. And it has a close-knit community of expats from all over the world (about 400 according to an informal survey by one resident).
How to Save $48,000 on Costa Rican Real EstatePosted on May 3, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
If you think real estate in Costa Rica is for the Wall Street and Hollywood jet set, think again. In fact, Costa Rica is one of more than a dozen markets we’ll run the rule over this June 7-9 for our International Real Estate Investment Forum. And the discounts will be substantial—a savings of $48,000, just on the three deals I outline below.
A New Opportunity in Costa RicaPosted on May 3, 2012 by mlatini
On Friday I told you about the opportunity to buy a lot perched above the shores of Lake Arenal…with a down payment of $2,500 and monthly payments of $187.50. This lot is in a project called The Preserve. Just below The Preserve and on the shores of the lake you’ll find one of Arenal’s most established projects: Turtle Cove.
Buy Costa Rica for $188 a MonthPosted on April 23, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
At Arenal you will find a mirror-flat lake with a dark green, tree-lined shore rising steeply to the cone of a towering volcano. This place is hidden, secret…yet you have safe and stable Costa Rica amenities and attractions on your doorstep. And, the world’s most bio-diverse country all around.
Buy A Lakeside Lot in Costa Rica With Stunning ViewsPosted on April 20, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
This stunningly beautiful place in Costa Rica has been overlooked. I can’t explain why. It’s just one of those anomalies. Sometimes things of great beauty and value are overlooked…for a while. Like the work of a great artist that gathers dust on a shelf until someone spots it. Then everyone wonders how it could have been missed. The drive from Costa Rica’s capital, San Jose, was on a modern highway. Scenic, interesting and smooth. Around the lake was sporty and dramatic.
The World’s Best Real Estate MarketsPosted on March 27, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
In pockets all across the planet, you’ll find amazing opportunities to make money from real estate. I’m talking about beautiful places tucked into lush jungle-clad hills, on white sandy coves, in bustling cities, and in small colonial towns. These are markets on the upswing. The mainstream hasn’t heard of them yet. And in them today you’ll get excellent bang for your buck as well as great profit potential.
The World’s Best Real Estate Markets in 2012Posted on March 27, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
In this Global Real Estate Index, you’ll find listed the 27 places in the world today that boast the most attractive, and potentially lucrative, real estate opportunities. Each of these places has something special to recommend it…some attribute you won’t find elsewhere. Those that top the list hold the most profit potential right now. Those at mid-table and below are ones to watch.
Full Details About That Lake-View Costa Rica DealPosted on January 6, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Lake Arenal in Costa Rica’s lake country is stunningly beautiful. The weather, with year- round temperatures in the 70s, is near perfect.
From the lake (and from the elevated lots at The Preserve, the project I told you about yesterday) the views to the towering Arenal Volcano are jaw dropping.
This is rich pasture and tropical jungle country. You might think you are in Switzerland. The roar of howler monkeys… flamboyant and dramatic…and brightly colored birds tells me I’m not.
Get Ready to Buy Costa Rica for $143 a MonthPosted on January 5, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Lake Arenal, Costa Rica has been overlooked. I can’t explain why. I can see no good reason. It’s just one of those anomalies.
It’s stunningly beautiful. The weather is near perfect. The community of locals and expats is welcoming and friendly. The road here is good and you don’t want for any modern conveniences or amenities.
I’ve seen situations like this before.
Property Trip to Costa Rica for 13 MembersPosted on December 21, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
Along Costa Rica’s Southern Zone the bright, thick, green jungle canopy rolls down to a coast of sandy beaches and rocky points. It’s truly stunning.
While prices in the north soared…prices here stayed low. It was difficult to get to. But a new smoothly paved coastal highway has changed that.
One project along this coast stands out as the gold standard. It’s here…on a stunning ocean view lot surrounded by jungle-clad hills in Pacific Lots…that a small group of Real Estate Trend Alert members will gather this February 8-11.
Costa Rica Bargains Found on a Real Estate Road TripPosted on December 14, 2011 by Dan Prescher
If you followed the scouting trip to Costa Rica I made with my wife Suzan earlier this year, you’ll know that this is the best time to buy. Here are some of the highlights:
Opportunity Along Costa Rica’s Secret CaribbeanPosted on November 30, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
The Caribbean side of Costa Rica languished, creating what is today a bargain-hunter’s dream. The neglect of this region is one of those anomalies that produces excellent profit opportunities. And I’ve found a way you can buy land in a Gold Standard gated community here for less than half of what you could pay just outside those gates.
Two Price Lists in Costa RicaPosted on October 27, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
Along Costa Rica’s Southern Zone the bright, thick, green jungle canopy rolls down to a coast of sandy beaches and rocky points. It’s truly stunning. While prices in the north soared…prices here stayed low. It was difficult to get to. A new smoothly paved coastal highway has changed that.
One project along this coast, rich in nature on land and sea, stands out as the gold standard. It’s here…on a stunning ocean view lot surrounded by jungle-clad hills in Pacific Lots… that a small group of Real Estate Trend Alert members will gather this December 8th-11th. They will have two price lists. One for all the inventory at the project. The other, a list of special pricing for our little group on more than 22 handpicked lots.
This Caribbean Deal is Ready – Get Your Discount NowPosted on August 26, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
On February 1 you received my report from my scouting trip to Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. I gave you a heads up about a planned new phase at Grand View. I told you that we would be able to get in early at special member-only pricing and terms.
And today, you can get in.
A Lot in This Scenic Part of Costa Rica From $45,000…With FinancingPosted on August 2, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
As a member of our little group, you will know that we look for Path of Progress opportunities. I’m talking about infrastructure projects like a new road…or a new bridge that will make an area more accessible and desirable. When this happens, prices rise. Like we’ve recently seen in Costa Rica’s Southern Zone…and in Tulum, on the southern edge of Mexico’s Riviera Maya.
My colleague at Pathfinder, Margaret Summerfield recently returned from a trip to Costa Rica, where she investigated the impact of a newly upgraded road that stretches out from the capital, San Jose. She returned to her base in Panama excited about a project she had seen in the area.
Buy Costa Rica For Less Than $16/dayPosted on July 20, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
Costa Rica has it all. And even in a country this stunning, Arenal stands out. Easily accessible from Costa Rica’s international airports of San Jose and Liberia, this gem boasts rich, green pastoral hills that roll down to the lakeshore while soaring, dramatic volcanoes form an awesome backdrop.
- Ten Reasons Why You Should Consider Costa Rica
Posted on July 14, 2011 by Margaret Summerfield
Pathfinder’s Margaret Summerfield gives us her take on why Costa Rica makes a perfect choice for overseas living, retirement or investment.
The Best Lake Buy in Central AmericaPosted on July 13, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
This place is unlike anywhere I’ve been: This is Arenal. Costa Rica’s Lake district. The peace and tranquility is broken only by the lion-deep roar of the howler monkeys. This is a place for hiking, horseback-riding, bird-watching, swimming, fishing (mainly for rainbow bass) and boating. With temperatures in the high 70s almost year-round the weather is perfect for an active lifestyle…and perfectly suited to keep the rich pasture land and forest a bright and dark green all year. Arenal is wonderful place where rich green pastoral hills roll down to the lakeshore and is conveniently located between Costa Rica’s international airports of San Jose and Liberia. This report details the latest real estate investment opportunities in the area.
3 Deals…and My 7-Country Scouting SchedulePosted on June 10, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
Summer…180 attendees…and 23 of my trusted contacts…have all arrived in Toronto for the International Real Estate Investment Forum. The exhibit hall is buzzing. It’s great to see so many of those green badges that are reserved for members of our little group.
It’s been energizing and informative to share ideas and experiences with those of you who have been able to make it. It has also been exciting to see so many RETA members connecting. At member-only events in the past, friendships have been made that turned into business relationships. That’s what happens when you pack a room with smart people chasing the same thing: Undervalued real estate opportunities.
The Perfect Cafe au Lait in Costa Rica?Posted on June 4, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
Cigarette smoke and the rich aroma of coffee drifts out from the wooden roadside cafe. My coffee is prepared and served like the French serve cafe au lait. The surroundings look like the Swiss alps as the fog rolls in. Rich and full bodied, my coffee is one of the finest I’ve had in Central America.
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