2Costa Rica Real Estate News, Todd Cutter

rising commercial opportunities for Fortune 500 businesses

Todd Cutter — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 15:58:00 GMT

Over the past few months, I have been amazed at what has become an emerging monster in the commercial real estate market here in Costa Rica. One after another, Fortune 500 US based transnational company are, like so many of our investors, looking for a "second home" in Costa Rica. The emerging presence of premiere, Class A business parks with advanced infrastructure, security, and amenities are providing these businesses with an un precedented opportunity for bottom line savings. A highly educated work force, bilingual energetic employees and Class A space at a fraction of the cost, has attracted companies like Proctor and Gamble, Western Union, Intel, HP, Countrywide, Sykes, Citigroup and so many more to this exciting marketplace.

Some of the favorites are the Forum I and Forum II office parks, creating the cream of the crop, true office park destination. The experience and prestige of the developer partner, Genesis, allows companies an immediate level of prestige to parallel that of their own companies. As a result gaining immediate market recognition, and attracting employees who take great pride and priveledge to be able to work in such environment. Obviously, this breeds low turnover rate and committed employees which lead to the long term growth and success of your foreign based operations.

Other excellent opportunities include the groundbreaking Meridiano building, providing jaw droppping architecture and a first class business atmosphere including auditorium for training and presentations, as well as a open air terrace for events, parties, etc... Contact me for any questions or assistance in finding your new second home :)

Todd Cutter

2Costa Rica Real Estate

www.2costaricarealestate.com

todd@2costaricarealestate.com

tips for buying real estate in Costa Rica

Todd Cutter — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 15:35:00 GMT

Shop Macro to Micro

We recommend that potential buyers start with the big picture and first focus on educating themselves on Costa Rica, and the investment environment and general lifestyle first. Costa Rica is an amazing destination with tremendous diversity both in its natural surroundings and its social settings in terms of infrastructure, lifestyle, amenities, etc. Deciding first that Costa Rica is a destination you desire and then examining the pros and cons of the varying areas of Costa Rica is an important step. You might find the perfect property at the perfect price, but if you are not in an area which suits your vision, investment goals and personal preference you will have nothing more than a perfect property in an area you don’t enjoy. A professional realtor here should be able to provide you with honest, unbiased analysis of the different areas which Costa Rica offers for investment and should also be inquisitive about your personal goals for the investment.

The relationship between realtor and client should be one of a mutual information exchange so that the potentially BUYER can educate the realtor about their personal preferences, investment goals and vision and the realtor can help educate and GUIDE their clients towards deciding on Costa Rica, then on a region or area, and finally on the property or properties that suit their goals. Though more labor intensive, respecting this process enables for clients who are happy both short and long term with their investments and ongoing positive relationships with the realtors who are you guides to investment.

Buy with Your Goals in Mind

When searching for real estate, set parameters and palpable goals for your search. The cheapest property is not always the best investment and the most expensive properties are not always the most luxurious. Buyers in Costa Rica have a range of goals as dynamic and varied as the topography and people of this amazing nation. Though a friend or acquaintance might have made the investment of a lifetime in the hills of San Jose, if you goals are for coastal vacation use, family trips, etc. their experience and insight might prove useless. Knowing the purpose of your investment and analyzing if the region and specific property you are looking at suites YOUR PERSONAL goals is paramount to success. Buyers who take the time to define their goals, seek honest and a broad range of information to confirm that the properties that they seek meet those goals, and stay true to their vision are the ones who find the most success here.

Head in the clouds… feet on the ground

This is a phrase we like to use with our clients shopping for properties in Costa Rica. This is a dreamlike destination and to make the right investment requires you to follow your heart and dreams, without losing touch with reality and vice versa. Clients who are constantly looking for properties which only make sense from an economic standpoint with no real affinity for a location or the country as a whole, tend to find less satisfaction in their investments. There are, of course, some incredibly lucrative investment opportunities here in Costa Rica, but numbers can and always do change, and have a tangible sense and belief in the potential of your acquisition is paramount for investors as it helps lend validity to the numbers and potential appreciation which some professionals toss out as matter of fact statistics. If you are promised returns that seem to good to be true, ground yourself and set real expectations for worst case scenarios. The same is true for clients who fall in love with Costa Rica and expect to find everything they dream for in a property at unrealistic prices. This is paradise and remains an amazing place for personal and investment use, but set realistic goals for value and returns.

Todd Cutter

2Costa Rica Real Estate

www.2costaricarealestate.com

Toll free 1-866-374-7798

Lot / Land For Sale in Dominical

CScott Williams — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 16:25:00 GMT

Stunning site!

• lot / land - MLS® $3,900,000 - 200 mtrs ocean frontage

Dominical, South Pacific - The Puertocito Marina is a perfect site for a high-end hotel or condominum project with commercial factilities. With over 6 acres of usable, oceanfront land there are a myriad of possibilities. Half of the land is concessioned for commercial use and the other half is concessioned for a hotel. The property is ideally located midway between Dominical and Uvita, in the lee of Puertocito and the northern edge of Puerto Nuevo beach. A private drive leads from the coastal highway down to the site through forest-rimmed, green pasture. From there the drive crosses a picturesque stream to the main building site, which has a wide, rainforest-lined plantel with a tract of cleared, hillside land that will provide the necessary elevation for stunning, ocean-view rooms.

So what can you do with this property? Here's a vision: on the far side of the stream build a luxury botique hotel with a handful of ocean-view, beachfront rooms, and on the near side a high-quality restaurant on the water.

Property information

Lot / Land For Sale in Manuel Antonio

Kent Thompson — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 19:30:00 GMT

Only 2 Lots Available

• lot / land - MLS® $250,000

Manuel Antonio, Central Pacific - These are the two best-value ocean view lots in Manuel Antonio. They are located in an exclusive, gated community with 24 hour security, easy access, nicely paved roads, sculpted gardens, and an on-site spa. Each measures 1000 square meters (quarter acre), and the two are continguous. Just below the two lots are three vacation rental homes, listed at $950,000, $1,150,000, and $1,250,000, respectively-- and the views from the two vacant lots are better.

This is a great opportunity for a build-out with great profitability--either for a spec home or vacation home with good cash flow. They will not be on the market for long!

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Bi-Level For Sale in Manuel Antonio

Todd Cutter — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:32:00 GMT

Exclusive Penthouse

• 4,400 sq. ft., 4 bath, 4 bdrm bi-level - MLS® $2,500,000 - Pinnacle of Luxury

Manuel Antonio, Central Pacific - The premier penthouse on the central pacific coast. This is the most exclusive unit available, meeting the highest level of international standards both in construction quality and level of first class finishes. This sole 4 bedroom penthouse boasts 3 bedrooms on the entrance level, each with their own full bathroom. The living room, dining room and showroom kitchen all lead out on to the expansive terrace, which offers million dollar views of the Pacific Ocean and Manuel Antonio coastline. THe upper level's master suite encompasses the entire second floor with a raised platform king size bed, granite counter entertainment center, wet bar, spacious bathroom with dual vanities, imported granite countertops, walk in closet, jacuzzi tub overlooking the Pacific and a sitting area with panoramic views. Additionally, the master boasts an expansive partially covered terrace and a crow's nest viewing deck on a third floor.

The complex is located at the peak of the hill offering the highest viewpoint in the area, overlooking the pacific and lush tropical forest of Manuel Antonio. The finishes include with central air conditioning, vaulted ceilings, custom windows, handmade hardwood doors, custom cabinetry, brazilian granite, built in appliances, Italian porcelain floors, elegant ceiling fans, prewired for cable and high speed internet, stained glass windows, Jacuzzi tubs, and more.
In addition to the immense detail for luxury on the interiors, both the exteriors and common areas also are designed with the highest level of standard. The units are connected by a 14 person elevator, a full gymnasium, infinity pool with sundeck, private saunas, storage, 24 surveillance, private covered parking, interconnected fire alarms, sprinkler systems, emergency generator, 5 day emergency water supply, etc.

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1 1/2 Story For Sale in San José

Todd Cutter — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 21:57:11 GMT

• 1 1/2 story -

San José, Central Valley

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1 1/2 Story For Sale in Dominical

Todd Cutter — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 21:56:56 GMT

• 1 1/2 story -

Dominical, South Pacific

Property information

1 1/2 Story For Sale in Balboa

Todd Cutter — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 21:56:43 GMT

• 1 1/2 story -

Balboa , Panama City

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real estate trends in Costa Rica

Todd Cutter — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 21:55:00 GMT

Many of our clients have been asking about the trends in the market place in Costa Rica....It is important to first understand that although Costa Rica is a relatively small country, it´s markets are very diverse, and the trends in each location are often vastly different.

As most have surely read, the northern province of Costa Rica has gone through a tremendous corporate who´s who over the past year. In addition to currently operational Four Seasons, JW Marrriot in construction, Hilton in a conversion stage to open in December, names like the Riu, Regent, Ritz Carlton, One and Only, Miraval, Canyon Ranch, Hyatt, Rosewood, Mandarin Oriental and Westin have all put their names in the perverbial hat. Although most of these mega resorts are not yet under development, they have certainly drawn the attention of the boutique developer, and of course, these top dollar land purchases have helped to bring prices up a notch in the area, as well as bring beachfront parcels to a scarce minimum.

Whereas 3 years ago, if you built it, they would come, in preconstruction and sign the check...those days are quickly changing. Some agents fear that this has, in combination with the re market in the states taking a nose dive, hurt the market here and put a dent in sales. Although this, in part is true, I am of the opinion, that this is a much needed, and welcome correction. Clients are getting smarter, and demanding that their developers deliver a better quality, in prime locations, etc...Clients have not stopped spending money, they have just stopped throwing it away. As a broker who enjoys selling, and will only sell a product that gives me confidence for my clients, this is good news.

Although these corporate developments will handle much of their sales in house, at prices well above what the average buyer can afford, my belief is that this will breed boutique developments that will offer a lower price point, tremendous quality, and of course, the parallel benefits of these branded products. One product to look out for is the Ocean Club Resort, on the coast, just to the north of the Hyatt Regency site, and just to the south of Flamingo. This resort is slated to break ground early next year, and will be one of the world´s most exclusive residence and beach club´s to be found. Situated on 10 acres of titled beachfront, this property provides ideal rolling topography and ocean views from within...The project will combine a series of mid rise towers in the back, and detached villas, immersed in a natural surrounding with lush gardens, waterfalls, walking paths, and of course, some of the most sophisticated amenities a resort buyer could hope for....Stay tuned for details, or email to place a REFUNDABLE reservation now before the presales are released.

More to come on the central and southern pacific coast, as well as the real estate development in the central valley, and more specific Escazu.

1 1/2 Story For Sale in Playa Nosara

Todd Cutter — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 06:00:00 GMT

Nosara´s Most Unique Estate Property

• 5 bath, 4 bdrm 1 1/2 story - MLS® #NOS3-105 $2,500,000

Playa Nosara , Guanacaste - Frequented by the rich and famous including high profile movie stars, models and athletes, this one of a kind, magical, estate property has just been placed on the market and represents the only true estate property in the area. Situated on 2.5 hectares, this property is ideal for a slective buyer looking for a true getaway, or an investor looking for a bed and breakfast. Along the top of the one of the most private ridgelines in Nosara, the estate offers uncomparable views of the Pacific Ocean, Nosara valley below, and the surrounding mountains.

The main house offers 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, two guest apartments with full baths and kitchenettes, a separate yoga studio, separate fully equipped gym and outdoor tropical bathroom, all situated next to an outdoor kitchen (the 900 sq. ft yoga rancho makes for a great entertaining/dining space), There is also a private office cabina and grounds keeper/security quarters. The 2.5 hectares property also has a beautiful deck and pool overlooking playa Guiones, a private waterfall with a wading pool, lush tropical gardens all over the place, and two separate lots ready for construction of additional houses, a tennis court/basket ball, soccer field, etc..... The property is a part of the original ¨American Project¨ and therefore has a community water system but also has its own well as back-up. The entire property is WiFi with an independent satellite Internet feed. It's a gated estate offering exclusive privacy with no neighbors in view, only the ocean, forest valleys and surrounding mountains.

The property is completely rented for all holidays at &7,000 per week plus kitchen staff. It truly is a unique private resort in Guiones.

Property information

Bi-Level For Sale in Santa Ana

Todd Cutter — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 06:00:00 GMT

• 280 sq. m., 5 bath, 4 bdrm bi-level - MLS® #SAN3-110 $255,000

Santa Ana , Santa Ana - This family home is located within the compound Hacienda Paraiso in Santa Ana, offering stunning mountain and city views, as well as one of the best climates in the Central Valley.
The house has a spacious living room on the first level, kitchen with granite countertops as well as a dining area and terrace.

On the upper level you´ll come across the master bedroom, with its bath featuring a large jacuzzi tub, and a beautlful balcony to enjoy the views. There are 2 more bedrooms with bathroom, that also have balconies.

The house is very secure, with central burglar and fire alarm system, as well as a fence with automatic door opening.

Property information

Lot / Land For Sale in Santa Ana

Todd Cutter — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 06:00:00 GMT

• 320 sq. m. lot / land - MLS® #SAN1-111 $64,000 - $200 per square meter

Santa Ana , Santa Ana - This lot offers some of the most stunning views in Santa Ana, with both mountain and city views, within the compound Hacienda Paraiso.
It is ready to build with soil test, priced at $200 per square meter.
Definitely an oppotunity you should not pass...

Property information

Single Story For Sale in Santa Ana

Todd Cutter — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 06:00:00 GMT

• 117 sq. m., 1 bath, 2 bdrm single story - MLS® #SAN2-106 $135,000 - Great opportunity!

Santa Ana , Santa Ana - This condo is located within the exclusive private residential club "Avalon Country Club", in Santa Ana where you´ll find integrated in a single place services, contemporary arquitecture, nature and great areas for sport activities and of relaxation.

Avalon offers apartments with easy access from all directions, with rational and suitable dimensions and effective and real proportions, high quality level and finished necessities, maximum security, maid service, ample sport facilities for different outdoors activities, it will include a club house with recreational swimming pool, Olympic swimming pool, golf putting green, field of basketball, aerobic circuit with about 4 km for jogging and bicycle.

This apartment is one of the corner units on the bottom floor, featuring one master bedroom with its bathroom, another bedroom with bathroom which can be used also as a studio, kitchen, living room, and a terrace outlooking the landscaped gardens. This unit´s location is ideal, offering easy access to to the swimming pool area, the lake, and also to the parking lot.

Certainly a great opportunity for those looking for the confort and convenience Avalon Country offers!

Property information

Commercial For Sale in Nosara

Todd Cutter — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 06:00:00 GMT

• 7,508 sq. m. commercial - MLS® #NOS4-101 $6,950,000

Nosara, Northern Pacific - Definitely one of the most succesful and popular resorts in Playa Guiones, the Harbor Reef Lodge is now for sale!

Established in 1998, its construction was done in 6 separate phases

Phase IAugust 1998 to December 1998 included the construction of the first 5 rooms called Playa Pelada Suites, the first phase of the restaurant ranchita and bar, bar pool, commercial kitchen, and small clothing, gift and surf supply store.

Phase 2Construction began in July of 1999 on an additional 5 rooms called Playa Nosara Rooms and Playa Guiones Suites. The first 3 of these rooms, the Playa Nosara Rooms opened on January 1, 2000 and the 2 Playa Guiones Suites on March 1, 2000. This second construction phase when completed doubled the total number of room and suites available from 5 to 10 and diversified the room types, available amenities and individual room capacities.

Phase 3An additional 6 Playa Nosara Rooms constructed between August and December 2001 bringing the total number of units to 16

Phase 4Construction of Reception, Retail Store and Real Estate Office and Laundry. Construction began in August of 2002 and opened in January 2003.

Phase 5Construction of Surf City Section of Harbor Reef begun in July of 2005 and opened in July 2006. The Surf City addition included 2 top floor 3 bedroom apartments and 4 very large hotel rooms bringing the total number of rooms to 22. This Phase also included the hotel's second swimming pool.

Harbor Reef has an excellent reputation and a very high client repeat reservation rate, due to its high level of service and personalized attention.

The hotel has satellite TV, telephone and wireless internet in all units, 2 swimming pools and beautiful landscaping.

An amazing opportunity for serious buyers only.

Property information

Lot / Land For Sale in Guachipelín

Todd Cutter — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 06:00:00 GMT

Excellent Development Opportunity

• lot / land - MLS® #ESZ1-110 $1,000,000 - $200 per sq meter

Guachipelín, Escazu - Located within one of the area´s most exclusive gated communities, this 5000+ sq meter lot offers a lucrative boutique development opportunity, or the site of an ideal private estate. Situated just minutes from the area´s best shopping at Multiplaza, CIMA hospital, exclusive schools, as well as the banking and business district, the Cerro Real community is home to some of the area´s most prestigous estate homes. The community offers very tight, 24 hour security, the convenience and proximity of the best amenities in Escazu, combined with spectacular city and valley views.

This lot is located at the heighest point of the entire development, thus providing priveledged views of the city and valley, and is zoned within the community CCR´s to permit up to 5 townhomes, or 2, 3 story towers. The location is truly premier, and therefore, any condos or townhomes, would be absorbed at premier prices in this development.

Seller financing is also available!

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