2CRRE Magazine | Jul-Aug 2023

Laura Duran Marketing Director

Todd & Scott Cutter Brokers

Marcela Fernández | Alonso Aguilar Lead Designer Copywriter

THE POWER OF CONNECTIONS: 2 COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE'S GLOBAL REACH

TROPICAL FIREWORKS: EXPERIENCING THE 4 th OF JULY IN PARADISE

Despite having its national independence day on September 15, Costa Rica’s historical links with the United States have made the 4th of July a recognizable yearly landmark in the country.

It’s not only the place it has on the collective unconscious thanks to film, tv, cartoons and pop culture, but the local expatriate community has also gone out of its way to extend the celebration as an almost unofficial holiday, at least in the parts of the country where there are important settlements of US citizens

Since the 1950s, when the expat population saw an important growth due to easier air travel conditions and a booming economic landscape, the U S Embassy in Costa Rica began to hold annual 4th of July picnics By 1960, an American Colony Committee was established to take responsibility

for the official Independence Day Party, and in the upcoming decades, more and more communities began to import the celebration

Nowadays, it’s just a matter of visiting a popular tourist hotspot on this date to find thematic selections of American dishes, beer promos and the obligatory fireworks display After all, more than 120,000 Americans live permanently in Costa Rica, and around one million visit the country as tourists every year

There’s no need to feel homesick, there’s plenty of opportunities to give the 4th of July your own tropical twist!

“One of my favorite parts of July 4th is being able to share a bit of the US culture, foods and fun with all my Costa Rican friends and family! We get to live here, revel in the Costa Rican culture, customs and traditions each day and being able to share some of our traditions here in paradise is so much fun!”

Scott Cutter

“Being a native of the U.S.A. and living as an expat in Costa Rica has been a great experience. The relations, both cultural and political, between the two countries have always been very positive. I can embrace my new home in Costa Rica (very thankful to be here), and still celebrate my heritage in a friendly environment here with other expats and proud, adventurous Americans who share a similar story.”

Scott Williams

“U.S. holidays can be a little different living in Costa Rica but something I look forward to every year is the 4th of July celebration in the world famous Los Suenos Resort & Marina. The resort opens up the private beach-club gates to the public to celebrate with hotdogs, hamburgers, BBQ ribs, live music, and a great fireworks show. A must do!”

Steve Hooven

THE ONE AT 510 AVENIDA ESCAZU

THE EPITOME OF LUXURY & EXCLUSIVITY

The One at 510 Avenida Escazu is a signature residence borne from the inspiration of well renowned Japanese interior designers Chiyo Yamashita & Iriya Mita, Japanese lighting designer Chiaki Murazumi and Costa Rican architect Marlo Trejos resulting in ONE of the boldest and most luxurious residences in Escazu

Luxury. Exclusivity. Design. Convenience. Lifestyle.

5 simple words, yet, complex to seamlessly combine into one residence, and extremely rare to find

VILLA REAL INFINITY ESTATE |

Santa Ana

Villa Real is conveniently located just off the highway connecting the two most influential and affluent suburbs of Escazu and Santa Ana It is defined not only by its unparalleled convenience and access but also its unique point of entry with sophisticated security, as well as being one of the only gated residential communities in the area that is abundant with trees providing both a cool climate, but also a more natural setting with privacy and exclusivity

1,298 m2 lot | 912 m2 | 5 beds | 8 baths | $1,995,000

With modern architecture and design and an expansive patio, this residence is the perfect combination of family and social life combined

Hacienda Los Reyes, La Guacima

TORRES DEL COUNTRY PENTHOUSE.

MOUNTAIN & CITY VIEW | Escazu

Besides the fantastic view that the penthouse offers, the location has proven to be a great asset considering that within walking distance from the towers, you can go to the banks, convenience store, restaurants, gym, sports bars, Costa Rica Country Club

340 m2 | 4 beds | 3,5 baths | HOA $1,000 00/mo | $725,000

Hacienda del Cielo: A legacy property like no other in the Central Valley, this iconic Santa Ana luxury estate is an irreplaceable and timeless residence that for the first time in its history, is poised to change hands

While that change of hands can be considered a legacy, the true essence of the word refers to the lasting impact that the property will represent for generations to come and without a doubt, the impact that this home will have is immeasurable

1 37 ha lot | 1 400 m2 | 4 beds | 7 baths | Price Upon Request

Santa Ana’s Finest Luxury Residence

Like all iconic properties, it starts with location The property was carefully selected by its current owners to build an estate like no other, that boasted a combination of convenience, exclusivity, privacy and of course, luxury

THE ELEGANT DELIGHT

Beautifully remodeled home in one of the most privileged neighborhoods This property is found on 2 lots, so it is one of the biggest parcels available in Trejos Montealegre The home is a large family home

TIGERS DEN. GREAT LOCATION

San Rafael, Escazú | 437 m2 lot | 275 m2 | 5 beds | 4,5 baths | $300,000

This great property has been used as a bed and breakfast for the past ten years It has a lot of charm for the right person It would also make a nice family home in one of the best located residential areas near the Paco The location of this home is what it’s all about

The apartment is studio-like, with a full kitchen and extra-large storage drawers The intimate space is perfect for cooking and relaxing

CONDOMINIUM ABITU BOSQUE URBANO

This beautiful apartment is distinguished because it has an independent storage room that is very useful and can be used in different ways; it measures 4 square meters It is located on the seventh floor with the best view of the project

79 m2 | 2 beds | 2 baths | HOA $200 00/mo | $215,000

| Granadilla, Curridabat

Located in San Rafael de Escazu, this Colonial style home, constructed in 2001, is ideal for a family looking for a single family residence, in a convenient location with easy access

WHY INVESTING IN PUNTA LEONA IS A SMART MOVE

This iconic resort development is one of the most famous in the Central Pacific area, a favorite with locals due to its proximity to the Central Valley.

For most ticos, the mere mention of Punta Leona is synonymous with convenience and leisurely coastal living This iconic development is one of the pioneering real estate communities established in the Central Pacific area Surrounded by over 760 acres of tropical rainforest, Punta Leona provides residents and guests with a true resort experience just an hour from San José!

Its incredible location has been essential to Punta Leona’s success, as it’s been a favorite setting for many ticos’ vacation homes, since you can easily make a weekend trip without much hassle or even having to worry about schedules But a great location can only take you so far, and that’s where Punta Leonas’ amenities come into the equation

With family life as its first priority, Punta Leona is fully equipped to host the best kind of summer memories 24/7 security provides safety and privacy, while the swimming pools, spa, bar & BBQ area, and restaurants offer plenty of opportunities to fulfill all your beach necessities Furthermore, the miniature golf course, soccer field, volleyball courts, tennis courts, kid’s playgrounds, and bike & boat rentals really emphasize the myriad of options you have to seize the outdoors and embrace the perks of tropical paradise

As a community, Punta Leona offers a diverse range of residential options, from ocean view condos to family homes and cliffside estates The alluring charm of

Playa Mantas and Playa Blanca is the perfect backdrop to enjoy as a retirement or vacation home, while the Garabito area’s important economic growth (both in Jacó and Herradura, particularly) makes Punta Leona a rare chance for savvy investors looking for a lucrative return on investment for rental properties It’s a matter of simply looking at the history of occupancy rates in the area and its renown as one of the Central Pacific’s most sought-after destinations

Just a 10-minute drive from the incredible Los Sueños Marina, and 20 minutes from the lively nightlife and cosmopolitan comforts of Jacó, Punta Leona is a great option for anyone looking to settle and/or invest in the deeply strategic Central Pacific area

LUXURY RESORT APARTMENT OCEAN VIEWS

| Nativa, Jaco

220 m2 | 3 beds | 2,5 baths | HOA $720 00/yr | $365,000

Don’t miss the opportunity to own your piece of the acclaimed Nativa Resort on Costa Rica’s scenic Central Pacific Coast Established in the late 1990s, the 270-acre resort caters to distinguished International and Costa Rican individuals and families looking for high-end investment/vacation properties surrounded by pristine nature

TROPICAL MODERN HOME AT A SHORT WALK TO PLAYA AVELLANAS

The residence is designed in a modern tropical manner, with an abundance of open areas and natural light to create a relaxing and comfortable environment

DELIGHTFUL HOME

| Hacienda Pinilla, Tamarindo

Hacienda Pinilla is a prestigious residential resort with 24/7 security located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica Spanning over 4,500 acres of lush tropical landscape, it offers a unique blend of luxury living, pristine nature, and worldclass amenities

The resort is known for its stunning beaches, including Playa Avellanas, famous among surfers for its consistent waves With 3 kilometers of pristine coastline, Hacienda Pinilla provides residents and visitors with a tranquil beach club where one can enjoy the spa, restaurant, or ocean view gym

2,379 m2 lot | 400 m2 | 5 beds | 4 baths | $1,897,000

UNIQUE MULTI HOME OPPORTUNITY

Tamarindo | 3,500 m2 lot | 820 m2 | 14 beds | 18 baths | $1,550,000

The opportunity to acquire a compound like this in a tranquil area such as Villareal, so near to Tamarindo, is one-of-a-kind This location is ideal because it is situated in a very tranquil area, just a few minutes’ drive from Playa Tamarindo

WELL PRICED POOL VIEW CONDO

A one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment is the perfect place to invest, whether it is in your own future home, or a business opportunity, specially this one that is located in Las Palmas, near Tamarindo, the recognized beach town of Guanacaste

CELEBRATING

WORLD

OCEAN

DAY: 10 EASY WAYS TO PROTECT OUR PRECIOUS SEAS

Today, we celebrate World Ocean Day, a special occasion dedicated to the wondrous beauty and importance of our vast, salty seas.

As we immerse ourselves in the joy of this day, let’s take a moment to reflect on the vital role the ocean plays in our all of lives and consider how we can be better stewards of this incredible ecosystem Let’s explore ten simple yet impactful ways you can contribute to the protection of our beloved oceans

1 Reduce Single-Use Plastics: Plastic pollution is a massive threat to marine life Say no to single-use plastics such as straws, water bottles, and plastic bags Instead, opt for reusable alternatives, like stainless steel water bottles and cloth shopping bags Small changes can have a big impact!

2 Conserve Water: Did you know that freshwater scarcity affects the health of our oceans? By conserving water in your daily routines, you can help reduce the strain on our freshwater sources, ultimately benefiting the marine environment

3 Choose Sustainable Seafood: When dining on seafood, make an informed choice Opt for sustainably sourced fish and shellfish to support well-managed fisheries that prioritize the long-term health of marine populations

4 Dispose of Waste Properly: Improper waste disposal can find its way into the ocean, harming marine life and polluting the water Always dispose of waste in designated bins, recycle whenever possible, and participate in beach or river clean-up initiatives

5 Manage Your Waste Water Properly: Do you know what kind of water treatment system you have at home? Most people don’t think about what happes once a toilet is flushed or their soapy water goes down the drain It is important to make sure you have a well functioning water treatment plant or septic system at your home or business

6 Support Ocean Conservation Organizations: They play a crucial role in raising awareness, conducting research, and implementing conservation projects Whether through donations or volunteering, your support can make a difference In our area we have the Nicoya Peninsula Waterkeepers, check them out!

7 Use Eco-Friendly Sunscreen and Bug Spray: When taking a dip in the ocean, protect your skin without harming marine life Choose sunscreen brands that are labeled “reef-safe” or “ocean-friendly” to avoid harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can harm coral reefs

8 Practice Responsible Tourism: When visiting coastal areas, be mindful of your impact Respect marine life and their habitats by not touching or removing corals, shells, or other marine organisms Follow local regulations and support ecofriendly tourism operators

9 Educate Yourself and Others: Knowledge is power! Take the time to learn about marine ecosystems, their inhabitants, and the challenges they face Share your newfound knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues to raise awareness and inspire others to protect the ocean

10 Get Involved Locally: Make a difference in your own community by participating in local initiatives Join beach clean-ups, engage in community discussions about marine conservation, and support local policies and regulations that aim to protect our oceans

As we celebrate World Ocean Day, let’s remember that every action we take, no matter how small, has the power to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of our oceans By adopting these ten simple yet effective ways to protect the ocean, we can collectively ensure a sustainable and thriving marine ecosystem for generations to come So, let’s dive in, embrace the responsibility, and become ocean heroes

Together, we can make a difference and preserve the beauty and wonders of our precious seas!

TRIPLEX WITH THREE APARTMENTS

Santa Teresa | 400 m2 lot | 3 beds | 3 baths | $550,000

Each apartment has a queen bed, kitchen, bathroom, sitting area, and outdoor terrace They each have their own separate entrance and A/C There is also a separate laundry room with a washer and dryer shared by all three apartments Each apartment is being sold fully furnished There is parking for three parking on the property and a large wooden gate

RENOWNED OCEANVIEW HOTEL

| Mal Pais

Casa Chameleon at Mal País is a renowned hotel, widely known both locally and internationally for its stellar service and beautiful ocean-view location.

This hotel is truly a piece of paradise perched up in the hills of Mal País and surrounded by lush, tropical wilderness Casa Chameleon at Mal País is an adults-only hotel tucked away in a remote part of the Costa Rican jungle Accessible only by a 4×4 road, it is composed of 10 private pool villas that are completely unique in character, with stunning ocean views and uninterrupted tranquility The decor in each villa is unique and different from one another, with beautiful details and custom-made furniture

You can build up to 75% of the property, with 3-story constructions To this date there is only around 1,000 square meters of construction, which means the property still offers the chance for further development, although it is also a completely turn-key, operating business as is

9,723 m2 lot | 1,000 m2 | 10 beds | 12 baths | $4,900,000

MODERN OCEAN VIEW VILLA #5

Nerea Cabo Blanco, Mal Pais

Malpais is the perfect location for those looking for a secluded home surrounded by nature but close enough to the vibrant town of Santa Teresa and all that it offers

800 m2 | 5 beds | 5,5 baths | $2,700,000

VILLAS TRANQUILA #10

FULLY REMODELED CONDO

150 m2 lot | 2 beds | 2 baths | $219,000

Villas Tranquilas is a boutique project of 16 villas located in a serene tropical setting just minutes from Manuel Antonio National Park and Marina Pez Vela

VILLA ZEST. BRAND NEW LUXURY RENTAL PROPERTY | Manuel Antonio

Iconic views, an incredible location in the heart of Manuel Antonio, stunning architecture, and impeccable interior design are just a few of the elements which make Villa Zest a one of a kind opportunity Villa Zest, set to be completed with its custom build the first of May of this year, has been designed to be a luxury rental and personal use estate home

857 m2 lot | 803 m2 | 6 beds | 7 baths | $2,500,000

NARANJITO FAMILY HOUSE

2,242 5 m2 lot | 350 m2 | 4 beds | 3 baths | $395,000

This one level home is located in the quaint town of Naranjito, which is just 15 minutes from the Quepos Marina Pez Vela and 20 minutes from the Manuel Antonio beaches and park The home sits on a lovely half acre property with mature fruit trees, native hardwoods, and cleared grassy areas

STRONG VACATION RENTAL | Manuel Antonio

In recent years, Playa Avellanas has had a significant increase in tourism; every year, more and more people visit the town, and in recent months, roads have begun to be paved along the route and in the town, providing easier access to this lovely location Avellanas has some of the most breathtaking sunsets and a beach restaurant named Lolas with delicious meals and a terrific outlook Avellanas has around one kilometer of beaches with white sand

5,573 m2 lot | 220 m2 | 4 beds | 5 baths | $1,185,000

WHAT TRANSACTION COSTS CAN I EXPECT WHEN BUYING PROPERTY IN COSTA RICA?

When purchasing property, it is important to factor in the transaction costs that you will need to cover as the buyer. It is standard practice here in Costa Rica for the Seller to pay the real estate commission and the Buyer to pay for the closing costs.

Below is a list of the costs that the buyer will be expected to cover and which must be factored in to the overall budget for the property. Approximately closing costs for a buyer will be about 4% of the purchase price. So if you are purchasing a house for $400,000, your transfer tax and notarizatino fees will be approximately $16,000.

TRANSACTION COSTS:

1.. Transfer Taxes, stamps and legal fees for Notarization of Title Deed - this is set by law. Transfer taxes are 1.5%. Legal Fees for notarization of the transfer deed will be between 1% and 1.5% depending on the value of the transaction. Normally you would expect that the transfer taxes, stamps and the notarization of the deed will come out to just under 4 to 4.5% of the value of the purchase.

2. Legal Due Diligence - normally the lawyer will include the costs of the due diligence in the above fees. However, for smaller transactions they sometimes add on additional fees.

3. Survey of Land - approximately $500 to $1500 + 13% sales tax

4. House Inspection - approximately $650 to $1000 + 13% sales tax

5. Any other due diligence that the buyer requiresthis could include a quality or pump test of a well, a soil test. or anything else that the buyer wants to check on.

6. Escrow fees - these depend on the purchase value but can be anywhere from $400 to $1,200.

7. Set up of corporation - if you decide to own the property in the name of a corporation, your lawyer will charge you anywhere from $750 to $1,500 to set this up.

Please feel free to contact us if you would like more information on the purchasing process!

PINUELA PAZ MODERN HOME & POOL

The residence was built by one of the area’s leading and most experienced boutique custom home builders and has professional property management in place

| Dominical, Bahia Ballena

The Seller will offer one year of property management labor (not vacation rental mgt) as a bonus to the new owner

The home includes some very fun details such as the viewing window in the living area that overlooks the pool towards the ocean, and the wet bar at the edge of the living area also adjacent to the pool The property enjoys a great approach, driveway and mature landscaping

1,580 m2 lot | 4,309 m2 | 2 beds | 2,5 baths | $799,000

NEWLY BUILT CASITAS AND OWNERS HOME ON 6 ACRES

Dominical

2 2378 acres | 270 m2 | 5 beds | 5 baths | $865,000

Boundless opportunity awaits! This newly built boutique hotel with on-site owner’s home in the hot rental market of Uvita was just completed The three tastefully designed comfortable casitas and the shared outdoor pool and rancho compound are complete and already earning income, the two bedroom owner’s home is ready to move into

ONE OF A KIND MOUNTAIN VIEW RETREAT CENTER

15 ha lot | 10 beds | 8 baths | $1,700,000

This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to step into the life you’ve always dreamed could be yours This property boasts 37 acres of pristine primary jungle, with established and thriving groves of over 25 species of bamboo, mature and producing fruit orchards, wild edible mushrooms and medicinal trees The crowning glory of this sacred place is a stunning 400 year old Ceiba tree a majestic wonder that will truly take your breath away

| Platanillo, Perez Zeledon

CANTO DEL MAR, #4. OCEAN VIEW

VILLA

| Dominicalito, Dominical

721 m2 lot | 160 m2 | 2 beds | 2,5 baths |

$589,000

Welcome to Canto Del Mar, an esteemed residential development Your villa positioned in the front row offer unobstructed ocean views, an uninterrupted connection that embodies the essence of Dominical’s allure

GUAYOYO COFFEE HOUSE

The business is being sold with the entire inventory, state-of-the-art kitchen equipment, top of the line coffee machines, marketing material, and website

ARMONIA 14 UNIT OCEANSIDE VILLAS

| Playas Del Coco

This iconic 14-unit property is located steps away from the beautiful beaches of Playas del Coco in Guanacaste

Guests staying in Armonia Oceanside Villas can wake up in the morning, sit outside on their patio, have their coffee, and then take a stroll along the 2 mile beach while chatting with all their local friends they’ll see along the way

While presenting the height of comfort, relaxation, and convenience, listening to the waves crash, this amazing property will make you an incredible monthly income!

2,716 92 m2 lot | 26 beds | 16 baths | $1,400,000

AMAZING LOTS READY TO BUILD

STUNNING OCEAN VIEW LOT, JACO

5,009 m2 lot | $349,000

Sustainability is at the forefront of the Dos Colinas community, with regenerative agriculture practices, rainwater capture systems, native reforestation efforts, and composting programs all in place

| More details

DRAMATIC

VALLEY

& MOUNTAIN

VIEWS LOTS 8 & 9, DOMINICAL

2 3 ha lot | $265,000

This property is ideal for a home builder, to develop a family compound, retirement or to build rental income producing properties

| More details

FINCA WITH RIVER AND VIEWS, ATENAS, ALAJUELA

16 ha lot | $491,595

he entire property occupies the highest buildable acreage on the western slope of the Cerros de Atenas, 40-minute drive to the Capital City of San Jose

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WATERFALL OCEAN VIEW GATED COMMUNITY LOT, MANUEL ANTONIO

5,393 m2 lot | $79,900

It is located only 15 minutes from Palo Seco beach and about 22 minutes from Quepos so you have the peace of the countryside but are close by amenities and popular tourist destinations

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BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY QUEPOS PLAZA, MANUEL ANTONIO

7,998 m2 lot | $800,000

Located just a few minutes away from Quepos town and the famous Marina Pez Vela

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MARINA VIEWS ESTATE, MANUEL ANTONIO

7,000 m2 lot | $960,000

With a thoughtfully chosen building site, privacy and tranquility are assured Whether you envision a modern architectural masterpiece or a cozy coastal retreat

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