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To find a house or land to purchase look for
a well-recommended realtor who can identify true market value
like the real
estate agency we list in this section. You may also want
to see the listings in the back of the Tico Times. If you
want to save money, look in the local Spanish newspapers La
Nación or La República because prices are more
realistic. Also, look around; go door-to-door in areas you
like; and talk to other expats. Also if you drive around an
area you like you are bound to see a number of for sale signs
for properties that are not listed in the newspaper.
Keep in mind that housing costs are much higher
in gringo enclaves like Escazú and Rohrmoser. Be sure
to remember that the farther away you live
from San José and other cities the more you get
for your money
The pricing of land in Costa Rica can be relative.
One way to find out is to hang out with the locals and see
what land
is really going for in an area. By cross referencing one
can usually arrive at the real value of property in a specific
area. Another method of pricing is for some to put a value
on it according to what they need. A property may only be
worth $10,000 but the owner needs $15,000. So he puts an
arbitrary asking price of $15,000 on the property. The best
way to find the true value is to compare the price of similar
properties in the area, look for a motivated seller work
with a competent broker who knows the area. Many established
brokers have sold properties in the area and keep a list
of their pervious sales. Some foreigners, including North
Americans, charge outrageous prices to make a quick buck.
So, be careful with whom you deal.
To find a good buy in real estate, you should study the market. It is also
a good idea to negotiate in colones since you will come out
ahead in the long run as the colón continues to devaluate.
This will make your home appreciate over time. Don’t
depend too much on the newspaper. Talk to as many people
as you can. Nothing works better than word of mouth for finding
good deals. Practice your negotiating skills. Ticos love
to haggle. You may be better off having a trustworthy, bilingual
Costa Rican search for you and do your negotiating. Your
realtor or lawyer should also be able to assist you.
For more information contact Prime
Costa Rica real estate and retirement properties or call
toll free 1 888 581 1786.
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