Want to retire on the cheap?

Join your fellow Americans in Costa Rica, then.  It’s developed from a well-kept secret to a major retirement mecca that helps to form a significant part of its national economy.

Hi, I’m Isaac Toussie, a professional land developer of several years’ experience in one of the most dynamic property markets anywhere in the world, New York City.  But today I’m going to spend some time surveying real estate opportunities in one of the greatest retirement communities ever, Costa Rica.  This is a beautiful country with beautiful people and a beautiful climate.  Costa Ricans – called “Ticos” and “Ticas” – are some of the most happiest of people in the world, and no wonder, as survey after international survey finds that the quality of life in the country is extremely satisfying.  In fact, the country voluntarily gave up its armed forces decades ago, an incredibly brave act in a region that at the time was plagued with long-term war.  The savings was used to improve the quality of life in many areas, from housing to health care.  As an American expat, your dollars will go a particularly long way, and it’s easily possible to live like a king on a very modest lower middle-class retirement income.

But first, a disclaimer, some pseudo-legalese I’m obliged to insert whenever I offer my personal opinions: what follows is not to be considered professional advice of any sort for any purpose whatsoever, for which the relevant professionals, like lawyers and accountants, should be consulted.  Do not make any important decisions based on what is presented in this article because they are nothing more than the observations of one individual!

Now, the coastal areas are generally the most desirable places, as may be imagined from a country whose name translates as “Rich Coast” in English.  And the town of Jaco is second to none when it comes to that delicate balance between having all the amenities and conveniences of Easy Street and being overdeveloped and overrun by tourists.  Jaco is scarely two hours away from the bustling capital of San Jose, but has a small-town vibrancy all its own that compares well.

Though many young people visit for the surf and the street life, nature preserves surround the town, and there are many outdoors activities like kayaking and horseback riding.  But as can be imagined, this has made for a pretty hot property market!  Luckily, I say again, your American dollars can stretch quite a bit in Costa Rica, particularly in Jaco’s outlying communities.