Popular Homes in Costa Rica

Each country usually has its own distinct flavor in housing and accommodations. The native element plays a huge role in the home’s appearance, how the home is built, and how it is furnished and decorated. That is what give the home or vacation property its charm and makes visiting the country that much more exiting. What about Costa Rica, though? What types of homes are most popular and what types of homes are seen around the country?

With the historical Spanish influence on Costa Rica, it is not surprising that many of the grand and exclusive homes in Costa Rica are Spanish Colonial. And then, with the coffee bean industry, there are also Haciendas, the Spanish version of plantations. Homes with pools seem to be prevalent as well. Most of the homes in the real estate listings are shown with pools.

After reviewing hundreds of listings, one common thread no matter how much money is spent, all the homes seem to be very posh. More than one bathroom, kitchens with fabulous appliances some even in stainless steel, walk-in closets, dining rooms, laundry areas and spectacular views. Many properties are hilltop and it is incredible to imagine living so cheaply in such luxurious surroundings.

Another point that seemed interesting was how the homes cater to the whims of Americans and Canadians. If you take a look at other places where people retire, for example the Caribbean, there is a distinct difference between what the retirees know at home as luxury and what the homes on the islands really offer as luxury. Take for instance the stainless steel appliances being shown in some of the exclusive homes in Costa Rica. Unless someone imports his own luxury, that type of thing would not be readily seen.

Gated communities are becoming very popular in Costa Rica. Again with the American and Canadian influences and the need to stick together, developers are jumping on the bandwagon to build these high-security neighborhoods. And in most instances when deposits are requested during the pre-construction phases, the properties are sold out almost instantly.

Almost shocking to this author was the listing for a two-floor penthouse that occupied the tenth and eleventh floors of a luxury high rise. Among Costa Rica’s ecology and wildlife, you would not expect the country to be so heavily influenced as to have such high multi-story buildings. And like many other properties in Costa Rica, this penthouse came with ensuite Jacuzzi.

The outsides of the homes are typically well landscaped and the architecture integrates with the warm climate. Open airy porches and cobblestone entrances to the homes keep the breezes cool from the hot sun and also give the homes that touch of Spanish influence.

Costa Rica is truly luxury at its finest without the luxury price tag.