Costa Rica Real Estate News – The variety of climates and activities available in this small country will satisfy almost anyone. If you are interested in buying a piece of this paradise, review these tips for buyers first.
Learn about the process. Normally, the first step is to find a property you like and have an attorney do a title search. Next, sign a contract with the seller and make a large deposit. Set up the rest of the financing and close the sale. The important last step is to register yourself as the owner.
Since you probably don’t have experience with buying Costa Rican real estate, don’t underestimate the value of finding a reputable agent to help you. They can help you navigate the different neighborhoods as well as the lengthy processes. On a similar note, hire an attorney. They are the ones who can check if the property has any liens against it that you will be responsible for.
While you may be able to get financing from a Costa Rican bank, it will be easier and cheaper in your country. In addition, sellers favor foreigners coming with a cash offer. For negotiating power, get your finances in order before arriving in Costa Rica.
Don’t forget to have fun. Enjoy the process of seeing different styles of homes and daydreaming about your new life. Take advantage of meeting people and learning about the neighborhood. Once you choose to buy, don’t let buyer’s remorse get to you. Remember the list of reasons you chose Costa Rica and the specific home and area.
Now Some Tips for Selling Property in Costa Rica
Selling property is usually a big headache. It doesn’t have to be so stressful, however, if you take a look at these tips and also get help from a reputable agent.
Ask the realtor for the best price. Everyone wants to get a good price but if you overprice it, it simply won’t sell. Areas that look the same in Costa Rica are often at different price points because of other factors like proximity to the city and crime. Request a comparable market analysis.
First impressions are everything so make sure to pay attention to the curb appeal. Just mowing the lawn will help people see themselves living there before going inside to see it. The same goes for the entryway, hide your personal effects so people can imagine their belongings in the space.
Don’t go crazy with room spray but do keep the house clean and fresh. The smell of flowers or baked cookies never hurts. If you can repaint or re-carpet it will remove the smell of smoke and other bad odors. Painting a neutral color will help remove your style and give the place a blank slate feel. If you are handy, fix a few of the things on your to-do-list. Some buyers are picky and won’t buy a place with a leaking faucet or a broken window pane. Adding mirrors is a great trick to add light and make the place look roomy. Lastly, hide your valuables so no one can steal them. If possible, put them in a safe so you can let people walk around without you following them.
