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This months articles and featured properties!

• Travel Channel Comes to Jaco Beach
• FEATURED PROPERTY - Private Home with Separate Villa - $295,000
• New Condos released in Los Suenos Resort - Amazing Views 
  

Contact me anytime for questions or assistance in Costa Rica.
David Karr US Direct 509.855.7457 or in Costa Rica 8718.7216

After living here for nearly ten years, I find it amazing that I'm still making new discoveries in Costa Rica.  Recently my wife and I finally made a trip to see the Nauyaca waterfalls in Dominical.  I've had many friends wave about Nauyaca, saying it is one of their favorites places in Costa Rica, after finally making the trip I can now see why it gets so much high praise. 

From Jaco Beach, its a very easy and short 90 minute drive. To get to the waterfalls from Playa Dominical, travel 10 kilometers down the road towards San Isidro de Pérez Zeledón, you'll see the office on your right.  Once you arrive at the tour office for Nauyaca you'll have the option to begin your hike from there, which is about 5-6 kilometers each way, or you can drive in about a kilometer.  All wheel drive is recommended, but we saw several sedans that parked at the river so probably fairly safe bet for those who prefer to shorten the hike.  That first kilometer truthfully is the toughest from there its very manageable.  While traveling on horseback is a popular option, we preferred to walk the trail on our own.  After about 90 minute hike we arrived at the waterfalls and were blown away by its serenity.  It is truly majestic, and since we were arrived so early we were fortunate to have the experience in this beautiful spot all to ourselves.  We grabbed some snacks and sandwiches and enjoyed the sights and sounds of Costa Rica at its best. There are actually 2 waterfalls, we both preferred the lower one which is swimmer friendly, while the upper waterfall was more of a photo spot.  As you can see from the photos, it really is stunning.  The other luxury of getting there early is we had the company of a very sweet guide, a local street dog who usually accompany's the mornings first hikers, leading them on the trail the entire time.  For more information on the Nauyaca waterfalls go to their website here.  If you don't mind the long hike, it's definitely a must do when visiting Costa Rica.

The World Cup tends to be the biggest sports event in nearly ever place except for in the United States.  Recently I had some friends from the U.S. commenting that they just don't understand what the big deal was about the World Cup.  Well, spend a little time in Costa Rica and you'll understand a bit more.  You see for many counties soccer is a symbolic and unifying game that brings people together for incredible and unmatched patriotic pride.  I grew up a diehard sports fans for all of my Seattle teams, but have never witnessed anything like the madness here in Costa Rica after the past week upset Uruguay and Italy in their first two World Cup games to advance to second round and top 16.  These games allow all Costa Ricans, mothers, grandfathers, children, all to come together and all root not just for their team, but for their country.  Celebration is composed of waving their national flag, singing their anthem and pridefully boasting about their great country.  Sure you might see some cities or states in the US celebrate when their local teams win a championship, but you'll never see such patriotic pride as I've just seen the last week.  Unfortunately if you live in the U.S. you might not get to experience what I get to here in Costa Rica, but I encourage you to watch a game or two, cheer on Costa Rica for the rest of this ride, and hopefully celebrate with the rest of all of us in Costa Rica. For some great photos click here

Excellent option for those looking at a cash flow producing property.  This large 1 bedroom oceanfront condo is one of the only 1 bedroom condos available in Jaco Beach!  Located in a very private oceanfront community which features only 14 other condos, this is a unique opportunity as we'll never see a beachfront community this small.  Because it is one of the only 1 bedrooms on the beach the demand for rental is outstanding, this condo has a strong rental history averaging a NET profit of $20-25,000 annually.  Low HOAs ($280 a month) and low property taxes ($500 a year!) make it one of the more attractive options on the beach.  Centrally located, fully furnished, turn key ready this condo is ideal for surfers, couples, singles or for the investor who is looking for a great income producing property.
Listed at $229,000 
Contact for details and more photos US DIRECT 509.855.7457

Back in February of 2012 during the Annual General Assembly of Vista Las Palmas owners, and while studying budgets of past and projected years, one line item stood out above the rest.

While reviewing the cost of electricity all owners were concerned that there seemed to be a continuous increase in the cost of common area electricity.  Noticing an average increase of 10% per year over the past 10 years, and seeing no reason for this trend not to continue, the VLP owners as a whole asked the Board to research alternative options.

The Home Owners Board of Directors and Property Manager started to explore the use of Solar Panels.  For a full year VLP had tests performed with actual solar panels and worked with information from NASA to determine if there was enough of a benefit to invest in these panels.  The data returned was very promising, as in Costa Rica around the area of Jaco, they found that the average amount of sun was more then sufficient to supply energy savings that outweighed over time, the initial investment.  

After over a year of research the VLP Board presented its findings to the General Assembly. Now that they knew solar would work, the other problem was how to pay for this significant investment.  The cost was close to $300,000 and as we were an HOA with no tangible assets, we could not obtain a loan from the bank. The only way to pay for this was for the Home Owners to make it work themselves.  Determining that this investment was not a guaranteed investment the Board decided to allow owners to invest  in “Tranches” of $10,000, and those who invested would receive an interest return of 7.5% /year until the project was completely paid off.  The Board also had the chosen Solar Panel installation company invest $30,0000 in the project so they too would become a partner in the project, providing everyone involved an extra incentive to achieve the best possible results.

As of today, Vista Las Palmas in Jaco Beach has enjoyed 5 months of Solar Power Saving; they have been able to reduce their total Common Area bill by an average of $4,500 per month and expect to have our total investment paid back in 6 - 7 years. The lifespan of the solar panels are 25 years, so the total amount to be saved over the life of the project is enormous.

Living in a beach town with only one government owned electrical provider, and having a building to be the first in the area to make a major investment in Solar, has started a domino effect, and as electricity rates continue to climb, the wisdom of this decision only becomes more apparent.

For information on real estate sales and rentals in Vista Las Palmas contact David Karr, 8718.7216 or davidkarrcostarica@gmail.com

Two of my favorites in Costa Rica real estate, Beachfront & A Great Deal!  There are many properties available for sale throughout Costa Rica, but very few are available right on the beach with fee simple title.  This charming beachfront community is one of the smallest developments you'll find in Jaco.  With buildings no taller than 3 stories, it provides a different atmosphere compared to the more highrise developments on the beach.  

This second floor condo is one of the best in the development, featuring beautiful ocean and located right off the cinnamon sands of Jaco Beach.  The fully furnished 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo is tastefully furnished and turn key ready.  On-site property management is available for those who wish to turn this into your own Costa Rica vacation rental.  Just a short 5-minute walk from downtown Jaco and steps to the Pacific Ocean, this exclusive community is one of the most popular in Jaco Beach.

Listed at $279,000, seller is anxious to make a quick sale and is very open to negotiate a great price.  If you have been looking for a beachfront condo in Costa Rica I encourage you to inquire more into this opportunity.  Contact David Karr or browse more Jaco real estate here.

Brand new 3 bedroom/2 bath luxury condos located just outside the Los Suenos Resort in Herradura Costa Rica. These modern condos, designed by award winning architect Javier Salinas, features amazing ocean views, with beautiful finishes. Common area pools, club house, tennis courts, gym, bbq area, and all just minutes to the marina, golf course.  From $385,000

Features include:

• Contemporary architecture with first class quality material imported from Spain
• Balconies with a 270 degree view to the ocean
• Under roof parking
• Club House with the biggest infinity pool in the area and amazing ocean view
• Kids pool
• Tennis courts
• Gym
• BBQ area
• Events and conference rooms
• 24 hour security

Costa Rica offers many different terrains and climate zones, it’s one of the reasons why I encourage people to explore the country and spend some time here so they can discover what area is best for them. The beach life is one of the more popular choices, with beautiful beaches nestled up against lush rainforest, [...]

its no wonder that many fall in love with the coastal shores of the Central Pacific. The region offers a number of different beaches, Jaco, Hermosa, Bejuco, Punta Leona, Esterillos, all distinct in look and personality. Our weekends, like most locals who live here are spent at the beach, and with so many to choose from its nice that we can mix it up. If you are looking for the beach life, I encourage you to check out the beaches of the Central Pacific.

Costa Rica’s beautiful climate and natural nature leave little to complain about, but no place is perfect and if there is one common complaint you’ll hear in Costa Rica it is the increasing rates for electricity. Electricity rates in Costa Rica are calculated on a sliding scale based on consumption, meaning the more the use [...]

the higher rate you pay. Recent increases have made it so use of many electrical devices and air conditioning are practically now considered luxury items. So it is important that if you are a property owner in Costa Rica you consider some ways to cut down on your electricity and save some money. Remember for North Americans, most of us are fairly spoiled with electricity consumption so a big step is simply being cautious and making sure to turn off devices and lights while not in use, but here are 5 tips to help keep your electricity costs down.

1. Turn off your hot water tank
If you are vacant from your property for an extended time be sure to turn off the breaker for your hot water tank. You might also consider switching to an on demand tank. These smaller tanks are much more efficient and usually provide plenty off hot water for most people.

2. Turn off your breakers.
Many property owners in Costa Rica are away for extended periods. ALthough your lights and electrical devices might be off, they can still consume electricity, so if you are away go ahead and turn the breaker off, just be sure to leave the fridge on or at least cleaned out.

3. Switch out your light bulbs.
Changing your light bulbs can make a big difference. Both LED and CFL bulbs tend to be the most efficient, the bulbs can be more expensive but usually save you in the long run.

4. Turn off your ceiling fans.
Its good to air out your place while you are away, but don’t leave ceiling fans on forever. I think a lot of people are misinformed on how much electricity ceiling fans can consume, especially when they are left on all day long. Obviously if they are on because you are using them thats one thing, but if you leave your home for the day or are not in a bedroom, turn them off.

5. Make sure you air conditioner is getting cleaned and maintenanced regularly.
I know some people who go years without cleaning their AC, this just makes the unit work harder, costing you more, not to mention making it more likely that your AC will break down. Be sure to have it cleaned and checked every 6-8 months.

What many people enjoy most about Jaco Beach are the many conveniences and amenities in town. Most of those who choose Jaco enjoy the ability to simply walk or bike to shops, banks, parks, restaurants, and bars. Jaco also provides proximity to many other amenities, including a marina, golf course, theater, cinemas, clinics, and of course plenty of surfing and hiking......

Here is an ideal condo for those who would like to enjoy living in the center of Jaco Beach. Beautiful, fully furnished 3 bedroom condominum available for sale is a tremendous value at $230,000 and the lowest listed in the community. This 1600 square foot unit boasts 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, central air, tile floors, 2 balconies, and upscale furnishings including plasma TVs. The unit is delivered in turn-key condition…down to the sheets and towels and knives and forks!
Located in the heart of vibrant Jaco Beach, one block from the beach, Monaco Condo complex is one of Jaco’s most popular addresses. Without a doubt one of the most attractive rental options in town, Monaco boasts two beautiful pools, jacuzzi, barbeque area, lush landscaping and an active on-site rental and property management office. This condo is perfect for the owner who either wants to use their condominium exclusively or one who wants income and positive cash flow from a vibrant rental pool. Only 3 years old the complex comprises of 25 upscale finished units, gated and guarded 24/7, 2 elevators and a 1 minute walk to downtown Jaco and its many attractions.