Buying Property in Costa Rica The ownership of real estate in Costa Rica is guaranteed by the constitution for both citizens and foreigners. As long-term residents of Costa Rica and property owners for many years, we recommend your use of a reputable attorney. The Association of Residents of Costa Rica can also be very helpful in providing information about residency and relocation. both reputable realtor and Lawyer Association of Residents of Costa Rica For over 20 years, the ARCR has assisted those living in Costa Rica and those considering moving here. Their goal is to become your one source to retire, live and travel in Costa Rica. has just had this to say about the Costa Rican Real Estate Market: click here

ARCR Administration S.A. (or ARCR) is a division of Casa Canada Group. The organization serves foreign residents in Costa Rica as well as people abroad who want to obtain residency in Costa Rica. We serve members both prior to their move to Costa Rica and throughout their years of residency here. Main areas of activity are:

• Information to live in and move to Costa Rica
• Assistance with insurance in Costa Rica
• To inform interested persons about immigration procedures for becoming legal residents, and to assist and advise them during the process
• Social Activities for members
• Seminars on different areas for living in Costa Rica
• A discount program effective at many locations when you live in Costa Rica

A Great Book for anyone considering a move to Costa Rica. "It was reading the original version of the book that brought us to Costa Rica"

The following is an excerpt from Christopher’s article on Costa Rica from "Escape Artist" on why so many have selected Costa Rica as their "Paradise"

Let's look at what makes Costa Rica so attractive for expats. A very low incidence of violent crime (no society is crime free), a low cost socialized health care system, inexpensive housing, a wealth of every imaginable activity to stay busy and happy, two excellent English newspapers, cable and DirectTV with all of the U.S. channels and a myraid of exciting business opportunities for enterprising foreigners, all help to contribute to the country's excellent reputation as a place to live. Moreover, most people can live on less than $1,000 monthly excluding rent. Some live for less and some for more depending on their lifestyles.

When you take into account all of these factors and such intangibles as a more peaceful and laid back way of life - no price is too high to pay for living in a unique tropical paradise like Costa Rica. Housing is only a fraction of the cost it is in most prime area of the United States and hired help is a steal. A full-time maid costs around $10 per day. Utilities such telephones, electricity and water are much lower than in North America. Public transportation is excellent and very inexpensive, so you don't really need a car.

Costa Rica is a healthy country. The average life expectancy of 76.3 years is rumored to be the third in the world. The country has an up-to-date medical system with hospitals, clinics and complete medical services in all major cities and some towns. Costa Rica has been considered by numerous international medical authorities as having one of the best low-cost medical care systems in the world, when considering preventative and curative medicine. Cosmetic surgery is affordable and Costa Rica's plastic surgeons are among the world's best. There are also many tax advantages to living in Costa Rica. Investors pay no capital gains taxes on real estate, business taxes are minimal and high interest bank accounts are tax free. Property taxes are also reasonable when compared to the U.S.

If you choose to go into business, the government offers incentives. You may also form a tax sheltered corporation and write off most of your business expenses. Foreigners are not required to pay taxes on external income. Internet connections average around $25 a month and the service is excellent making it very feasible to do business on a global level No stranger to Costa Rica fans, Christopher Howard has written extensively on the nation. He has lived in Costa Rica and Latin America for the better part of the last thirty years.   See www.escapeartist.com

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