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Squatters or precaristas, as they are known
in Costa Rica, can be a real problem.
In Costa Rica squatters
have certain rights. The laws that protect them were originally
passed to prevent wealthy people
from acquiring too much land as in some Latin American countries.
Land ownership here is an active process - stop taking care
of it -and it will go to someone who will. It is the law
and the intent of the law. Costa Rica did not establish their
law so that foreignerscould buy large chunks of land and
leave it idle as a future investment. They established their
law originally so that they didn't have a large class of
people denied land because a few very rich owned it.
Undeveloped land is a prime target for squatter
invasions. Once they establish themselves on your land it
is difficult
to get rid of them. If they occupy the land for less than
a year it is fairly easy to have them removed, especially
during the first three months. The sooner you get them off
the land the fewer problems you will have. Be careful! After
a certain period of time they can claim the land as their
own.
The best way to avoid squatters is preventing
them from settling on your land. Visit the land periodically
to help prevent
people from settling on it. If you cannot live on your property
year-round, then you will have to hire a guard, caretaker
or a reliable house sitter to watch it for you If you have
a caretaker make sure to obtain a receipt each time you pay
them. Have your lawyer or some other person keep an eye on
your caretaker. There have been cases where caretakers have
tried to squat on land.
Also, make sure boundary fences and limit
signs are well maintained and visible. If you have to be
an absentee owner,
you can also have a friend or attorney stop by to check your
property periodically.
There is a trustworthy professional house
sitting agency in San José which will watch your home
while you are away. They are bonded and will provide references
upon request.
You may contact them at 256-7890.
For some people it is better to rent for at
least six months. However, whether you rent or buy first
really depends on
your comfort level. Make sure to buy where it’s easy
to rent or sell your home or condominium in case you change
your plans or in the event of a personal emergency. If you
choose to purchase in a popular area in the path of progress
you should not have a problem selling your home if it priced
correctly.
If you want more information about the best
real estate affordable, please contact Costa
Rica real estate and retirement properties or call toll
free 1 888 581 1786.
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