www.CostaRicaTicas.com

I concur with a lot of the sentiments expressed in these last few posts. CR doesnt live up to the retirement hype in many ways. There are a variety of reasons why after going on 4 years here I am moving and will do my residency in Panama. Real Estate and other ventures will continue to grow and profit in CR, if only for the market pressure escaping baby boomers will put on this whole region the next 5-10 years. I will continue to have business in Costa Rica, but right now the prices and laws in Panama are more favorable for retirees, investors and foreign residents.

As to the real estate issues, one might think about using the sovereign corporations of Panama as ownership vehicles for Costa Rica investments. Many advantages both in relation to Costa Rica changes and US tax consequences. At the end of the day, anyone going offshore should get competent councel in the US AND the offshore country. Offshore is NOT a 4 letter word...just in the eyes of our panicky and over-reaching US govt.