In Costa Rica, as in many other jurisdictions, one of the available pathways to obtain lawful residency is through investment -either by acquiring real estate or by purchasing certain qualifying assets. For the purposes of this analysis, we will focus specifically on real estate acquisitions. Thanks to the tax incentives established under the “Ley para la atracción de inversionistas, rentistas y pensionados” (Law No. 9996), this option has become even more appealing, as it no

The tropical paradise of Costa Rica harbors a silent destroyer that strikes luxury estates with devastating precision. Hidden moisture and salt-air corrosion systematically destroy finishes, infiltrate closets, compromise HVAC systems, and fry electronics—particularly when owners travel abroad. While budget property checks might cost less upfront, they consistently miss root causes, transforming minor moisture issues into five-figure restoration bills that shock returning own

(Teresita of Santa Cruz & Skip the Expat) Skip’s Viewpoint “Ah, mi amor, you have no idea what true happiness is until you’ve tasted Gallo Pinto con alma! ” Teresita says proudly, standing in her colorful kitchen in Santa Cruz. The air smells like heaven! It's a mix of cilantro, onions and a splash of Lizano sauce that could wake up an entire neighborhood. “My abuela,” she continues, eyes twinkling, “could make Gallo Pinto thirty different ways. Thirty! And that was just be

(Free Complimentary In-Person Consultation) How cutting corners on property management turns a $1,500 monthly "savings" into a $47,000 disaster—and why professional estate management protects your investment instead of draining it I'll never forget the phone call that came in October 2019, right in the middle of Costa Rica's brutal rainy season. The voice on the other end was panicked, desperate even. "Tere, I need help. I think I made a terrible mistake with my property." Da

The $50,000 Mistake Maria seemed perfect. She smiled warmly during the interview, had glowing reference letters, and claimed over 5 years of experience. She didn't speak English, but she seemed to understand the basics through hand signals and simple gestures—and she was such a sweet person. The expat couple felt great about their decision to hire her as their full-time housekeeper for their beachfront home in Guanacaste. Like most domestic workers in Costa Rica, Maria spoke

Moving to a new country for retirement is a big step, especially when you want to enjoy your golden years in peace and comfort. Costa Rica has become a favorite destination for many seniors looking for a warm climate, friendly people, and a relaxed lifestyle. If you are considering making this beautiful country your new home, this guide will help you understand what to expect and how to thrive as an expat senior in Costa Rica. Embracing expat retirement in Costa rica: What to

When Skip arrived in Costa Rica, he was full of enthusiasm, checklists, and enough bug spray to protect an entire village. He’d read...

Luxury homes in Costa Rica aren't just beautiful architectural achievements—they're living, breathing ecosystems that demand constant...

The eternal struggle: Tico Time  Tica: “Relax. If the party starts at 7, show up at 8:30.”   Expat: “I arrived RIGHT ON TIME and ended up...

Skip's point of view Back in South Florida, my “coffee time” was less about socializing and relaxation. . and more about survival and...