Christopher Howard shows his bestseller to former Costa Rican president Alberto Monge

Confronted with the spiraling cost of living in the United States and Canada, people from all walks of life and all ages—including baby boomers and seniors—are searching for an affordable place to live or retire without sacrificing their current lifestyles. Costa Rica, Central America, one of Latin America's best-kept secrets, just might be the country many of these people are seeking.

Despite having one of the highest standards of living in Latin America, purchasing power is greater in Costa Rica than in the United States or Canada. The country is really a bargain compared to most places, especially in retirement real estate.

In most areas housing costs less than what it does in the U. S. and hired help is a steal. Utilities—telephone service, electricity, and water— are cheaper than in North America. You never need to heat your home or apartment because of Costa Rica’s warm climate. You need not cook with gas, since most stoves are electric. These services cost about 30% of what they do at home. Bills for heating in the winter and air conditioning in the summer can cost hundreds of dollars in the States. For those watching their fixed income, retirement dollars, this is an important consideration.

A recent study by the Miami Herald rated Costa Rica the 27th safest country for investment of 140 countries surveyed. If you are not impressed by Costa Rica’s ranking, consider that the U.S. was ranked only 22nd! Another recent study found Costa Rica to be the least corrupt country in Latin America. Just do your homework, and invest with confidence.

In addition, U.S. business magazine, Fortune ranked San José Latin America’s fifth best city to do business and placed it within the 25 best cities in the world. According to the report, Fortune considered the city’s ability to create opportunity for its residents, its business climate and how well it can satisfy the business needs of companies that invest there. San José ranked tops in the quality of its labor force, its business environment and the lifestyle it offers resident executives and investors. Real Estate is still a bargin. Please return for our recommendations for a new retirement real estate book to be published soon, that will explain all you need to know to select and safeguard yourself in purchasing Costa Rican property. More information about Costa Rica  and retirement real estate.