Real Estate in Escazu, Costa Rica

"We spent 4 years staying for short time in a number of areas. We recognize CA prices are not reflective of Florida or Texas prices. Adjust accordingly. 3 choices: The beach areas: Ridiculously hot & damp; humid so A/C runs non-stop, Where as in Escazu we rarely need it as the temperatures in the Central Valley at 4,000 feet rarely go above 80 or below 63. Rarely use A/C but if we do electricity is crazy cheap in CR unlike CA. The water is great here too, No need anywhere in CR for bottled water like CA. We still love to visit the beach which is only 2 hours away (Pacific side) but just not live there. Central Valley: 3 choices Heredia (nice but a little too rural), Santa Anna (a little too hot & too small, (Although the golf course is amazing there!), and the best in our mind Escazu. The perfect location in Escazu is anywhere close to the Costa Rica Country Club (no we could never afford to belong). Five years ago, we stayed in La Sabana (loved it) first as our home base and after many stays all around CR returned and bought a beautiful condo with high security in Escazu. The cost was 20% of what our condo was in San Diego and 4 times the size! We can walk (or a truly short drive) to so many restaurants, large supermarkets, shops and even two great movie theatres showing films in English! Food was a big worry, yet in Escazu we can buy the same foods we enjoy in the states (and lots of great Italian restaurants!). And virtually no mosquitoes at this elevation unlike the beaches! Also, best hospital in central America only 2 miles away (CIMA, JCHO accredited, many English-speaking docs). Ditto for dentistry. All much cheaper than the states. If you do not know any Spanish (like us) and now retired in your late 60’s, learning a new language can be stressful, Hence Escazu. Our culture shock has been minimal which has been a big relief, but we like the challenges of learning Spanish, & have learned the patience it takes (Tico Time) like spending 3 hours in a bank just to get a new debit card, which stopped working for some unknown reason after a month, needing an attorney to buy a car, etc. But some things are very fast like walking 3 blocks to our internet/TV provider (by the way great hi-speed) and getting service sent to our condo, multiple times, within the hour! And everyone is soooo happy and helpful! The politest most respectful drivers we have ever seen. We have traveled all over the world and have never experienced such absolute courtesy on such a grand scale. Certainly not in the states. And we have made a number of Tico professional friends here, been to their homes (very welcoming) and they have been nothing but helpful, sincere and trustworthy. They truly are the happiest people in the world! By the way we have spent a lot of time in Mexico (my brother lives there) and that is a dangerous unpredictable place compared to CR, but certainly cheaper as is Belize (truly scary)," explained one person living in Escazu, Costa Rica.

"There are a variety of rental accommodation options available in Escazú. You can browse online real estate sites, such as Encuentra24, Casaideas, or Piso21, where you can view listings and contact landlords directly. Additionally, there are a number of property management companies who can help you in your search, such as Amor Inmobiliaria and Global Real Estate," said one expat in Escazu.

"Condo with high security. However we never feel fearful walking at night to our favorite restaurants or store as their are guards everywhere. This is true pretty much everywhere we have been in CR. We have always felt very safe (unlike dealing we the herds of homeless drug addicts in CA)," remarked one member in Escazu.

"Generally, expat homes and apartments in Escazu are quite modern and luxurious, with modern amenities that offer a high level of comfort. They are typically situated in upscale residential complex areas, with access to private pools, shopping centers, restaurants, and other attractions. They are also often gated communities with guards and surveillance systems for added security. The architecture and décor of the homes and apartments is generally quite modern and stylish, from contemporary to the Mediterranean style. Additionally, many expat homes and apartments typically offer stunning views of the surrounding Central Valley and Escazu mountains," explained one expat living in Escazu, Costa Rica.

"Much much lower both in terms of cost of buying and maintenance (e.g. electricity, internet much cheaper, water, etc.). Also housekeeper, for example is only 3,000 colones an hour ($4.67)! Ridiculous! We doubled her "salary" from the start. And monthly condominium fee are only $ 400/month vs. $800-1200/month in CA. Wow," explained one expat living in Escazu, Costa Rica.

"The cost of housing in Escazu can vary depending on its proximity to the city center and its size, amenities and condition. Generally, the cost of renting a two-bedroom apartment in Escazu ranges from $800 to $1,500 a month, while purchasing a two-bedroom apartment costs around $200,000 to $400,000," said one person in Escazu.

"We have bought and sold several properties in Costa Rica. We had the help of an attorney and it was simple. Properties are bought in the name of corporations. One thing to remember though, it is always easy to buy, but not always easy to sell. The market is SLOW...nothing like the fast turning market in the US. Most people pay cash as financing is a nightmare," said one person in Escazu.

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Escazu depends on a variety of factors including the individual's lifestyle, budget and long-term goals. It may be better to rent if you plan to live in the area for a short time, or if you are not financially well-off. On the other hand, if you have enough funds and plan to live in the area for a long time, buying a home in Escazu may be the better option. Additionally, you should also research the local housing market to determine whether buying or renting is more economical," said one expat who made the move to Escazu.

"1. It is important to research the area and the local market before making a purchase. 2. Make sure to hire a qualified lawyer to help you with the legal aspects of the purchase. 3. Consider the cost of living in the area and the availability of amenities. 4. Be aware of any restrictions or regulations that may apply to the property. 5. Make sure to obtain a title search and survey of the property before making a purchase. 6. Be aware of any taxes or fees that may be associated with the purchase. 7. Consider the safety and security of the area before making a purchase. 8. Make sure to obtain a valid deed of sale and other necessary documents," said one person in Escazu.

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Escazu. According to Costa Rican law, foreigners are allowed to purchase and own real estate in the country, including in Escazu. The only restriction is that the property must be registered in the name of a Costa Rican corporation, which can be set up by a lawyer or other professional. This is done to protect the foreign owner from any potential legal issues that may arise," explained one foreigner living in Escazu, Costa Rica.

"Rental properties in Escazu typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Some properties may also include a dishwasher, microwave, and air conditioning unit. Additionally, many properties come with basic furniture such as beds, couches, and tables," explained one person living in Escazu, Costa Rica.

"Expats can search for homes in Escazu by looking online for real estate listings, contacting local real estate agents, and asking other expats for recommendations. Additionally, expats can attend open houses and visit neighborhoods to get a better sense of the area," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Escazu.