| Squatters
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 its
law so that foreigners could buy large chunks of land and
leave it idle as a future investment. They established their
law originally so that they wouldn'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 to prevent 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
him. Have your lawyer or some other person keep an eye on
your caretaker. There have been cases in which 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 have a friend or attorney stop by to check your property
periodically.
There is a trustworthy professional house-sitting agency
in San José that will watch your home while you are
away. It is bonded and will provide references upon request.
You may contact the agency at 2567890.
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 is priced correctly.
If you want more information contact Costa Rica real estate and retirement properties or
call toll free 1 888 581 1786.
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