www.CostaRicaTicas.com

Been looking around the internets at some properties and I am interested possibly purchasing a newer construction condo in one of the western beach areas.

Could some members give any insight on how the purchasing process goes? How does getting a mortgage work? similar to the States, different? How much is a typical down payment? thanks alot

On a more serious note... The worst thing you can do is be in a hurry. You should spend months in the area before you even consider buying. There are virtually no rules down here, and people who come down for a week and put money down on something are the meat and potatoes of the scammers, ripoff artists and other sharks. Talk to everybody you can find, especially those who are NOT in a position to profit from your decisions. Do your homework. If you don't, you run a giant risk of getting screwed.

(asking a question here does not qualify as doing homework)

_________________
"The only normal people are those you don't know very well." Joe Ancis

Take Bilko's advice, then hire a reputable lawyer to do proper due diligence on the property and owner. It is actually fairly simple to check a place out here. The issues are when people are uninformed and in a hurry. There is no realty licensing laws, so make sure you communicate directly with a verified owner, even if an agent is involved.


BKTUNA
I am never going home

It is also a not too uncommon practice to hire a lawyer to watch the lawyer that is watching the owner.

If you are looking to purchase some property, i would use a company like this; all is out in the open. they do not work with just one developer and they have their lawyers resume rigth on the page. i think the worst thing to do is getting these big-time lawyers. they always seem to be connected to developments that in the end dont hold their end of the bargain.

the website is http://www.daygroupservices.com
want more info, send me a message.