Amazing biodiversity, a mature political system and economic stability make Costa Rica a unique investment destination. Many would even call it-in the broadest sense of the word-a true paradise. There certainly are many pros, but be sure to consider all the angles before making a decision. It's all about finding that perfect balance!
Regardless of your investment style, in order to make the right decision you need to start by raising questions. In addition, when it comes to real estate investments, each project should be approached as part of a master plan, with clear guiding principles, set goals, and careful analysis of the location's strengths, weaknesses and possible threats. The answer to all these questions and issues will help ensure the safety of your investment.
Development principles
Like the majority of investors, you probably came looking for that quality that makes Costa Rica unique: its natural treasures. More than a single property, you are investing in the country. Therefore, your project's guiding principles should be mindful of this reality in order to ensure minimum impact on the location. In turn, your property's value will increase.
You've probably heard the phrase "green is green." The architect Joseph Brancato, member of the board at Gensler, one of the most important design and architecture firms in the world, uses this phrase constantly. His explanation is rather simple: the balance between profit, community and the planet - known as "the three Ps" (planet/people/profit) guarantees the project's sustainability in the long term.
Traditionally, real estate developers have had one goal in mind: profit. However, leaving the environment and the community out is like trying to take a picture resting on a one-legged tripod. The photograph might turn out, but the image could be blurred, with little value and, as a result, nobody would want to see it. The same happens with our investment. If we leave any of the "Ps" out, our project will never really be successful.
Let's consider a true story to illustrate this point. Last February, Allegro Papagayo Hotel, on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, was forced to close down due to harmful environmental practices. The order came from the Ministry of Health, with the support of the Ministry of the Environment and Energy (MINAE), and the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT).
According to government authorities, Allegro Papagayo Hotel polluted the area with wastewater. Despite several warnings, hotel representatives overlooked two of the three "Ps": nature (planet) and the community (people). They thought that not treating the wastewater would save them the capital required to build an adequate water treatment plant.
By putting profit above all else, Allegro Papagayo was forced to close down. How much money has the hotel lost each day its doors are closed? Plenty, without a doubt, but the ecological damage caused by their actions would have been more expensive in the long term, not just for them, but for all the surrounding areas as well.
Set clear goals
Your medium- and long-term strategies should support the specific goals established in the investment plan. Be sure to take into consideration the life cycles of the infrastructure and the buildings; this will guarantee healthy financial returns. Before making a decision, ask yourself this: would the same project receive your approval if it was located elsewhere? If the answer is no, then something isn't right.
Steer clear of the dangerous creation of a ghost town. The balance between leisure and a community is vital. Remember that a remote town is not viable in the long term. If the place where you intend to build is nowhere near basic services (such as health and education), or is too far from the commercial areas to supply your daily necessities, more than likely your investment wouldn't be sustainable.
Strengths and opportunities
Make a list of the project's strengths and opportunities. If you hired the services of a company you're not familiar with, analyze its experience. Remember that all looks good on paper. Don't let yourself be fooled: a professional company should leave no room for doubt; on the contrary, plenty of evidence should attest to its quality. Visit one of the projects built by the company; don't believe what they say and do some research on your own. Look for references and get in touch with the Federation of Engineers and Architects (CFIA).
In addition, you can seek the advice of well-known real estate businessmen. There is a large number of professionals in Costa Rica that will look after your investment. Many of these firms are supported by years of experience and have a reputation that can be easily checked. Keep in mind the strengths that the project offers thanks to its location: scenic beauty, size and biodiversity are very important details. Don't forget the distance to important cities.
any times, being a few minutes away from a city, where all the essential services can be found, will make the value of your investment increase.
Real Estate - Investment 
