Finding Affordable Costa Rican Beach Property

Affordable is a relative term much like beauty in the eye of the beholder. Affordable means different things to different people but in the total scheme of Costa Rican real estate, most properties are affordable. That is if you compare similar properties in the US and Canada, you will find that the property is quite affordable.

The first place to look when searching for affordable beach property is the MLS (www.mls-cr.com). Perusing the many listings, one can see that it is common to find inexpensive properties with pools. Both rental and for sale properties are available and the monthly rental prices are peanuts compared to Canada’s and the US’ cost of living.

Another very good place to start is The Costa Rica Real Estate Brokers Board (www.camaracbr.or.cr). Many listings from their recommended brokers are available to be seen online. They show existing properties, both day and month rentals as well as properties for sale. They also make available pricing and pictures of properties in development and even pre-construction. While some of the rental properties may seem expensive at five hundred US dollars per day, there are just as many gorgeous homes being offered at two-hundred and seventy-five US dollars per month.

It is interesting to note that in an economy where real estate is highly sought after and where tourists are begging for more resorts and hotels, the prices are not rising in direct correlation to the demand. If the same economy existed in North America, the prices would be so exorbitant, it would lock most people out of the market. Because this trend seems to have been prevalent for some time and it does not appear to be changing, if one looks closely, they can find very affordable beach properties without much trouble.

After having reviewed the websites to see potential properties online, send emails to a couple of the registered real estate brokers and find someone to help you in your search. Remember that you will need to provide specific details to help the agent in the search. State whether you prefer the east or west coast, how many bedrooms you require, how much you are willing to spend, and whether you are looking for a short term vacation rental, a longer term home rental or a home purchase.

Once you and the agent have narrowed down the possibilities, it would probably be wise to visit to make the final determination. Of course, if you were just going for a two-week vacation, you would book your accommodations without visiting. With the internet, email and fax machines, it is relatively easy to make a decision without visiting but seeing something in person is usually worth the visit.

If you are already in the country looking around, ask other people where property exists. Others like you may be able to point you in the right direction for choosing. But when actually ready to buy, it is probably prudent to use the services of the Costa Rican Real Estate Brokers Board so that they can get you the required information such as a title search and appraisal on the property.

Lastly, you may not necessarily need to be on the beach proper, but may save a little by being a couple blocks away but so close still as to enjoy being near the beach. It has also been said that because many people live in or close to San Jose, getting beach property is quite a lot cheaper because it is away from the hub. Whatever your price range, you are sure to find the perfect beach property that is affordable for you and your family.