Designing Building a Home in Guanacaste

Designing & Building a Home in Guanacaste: What You Need to Know

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For many people, the dream begins the same way. You’re standing on a ridge above Tamarindo, or maybe on a quiet beach near Playa Hermosa, and you can’t help but imagine it—a home here. Not a rental, not a hotel, but a space that belongs to you.

The idea feels exciting, maybe even a little daunting. Because designing and building in Guanacaste isn’t just about creating a house. It’s about weaving your life into a region with its own rhythms, its own challenges, and its own rewards.

Why Guanacaste Feels Different

Costa Rica has many regions, but Guanacaste stands out. The province has a dry season that paints hills golden, a rainy season that brings them roaring back to green. Winds off the Pacific can be both refreshing and, at times, demanding.

Homes here need to respond to that. Wide roof overhangs to protect terraces. Open spaces for airflow. Materials that stand up to salt and humidity. It’s not just architecture—it’s adaptation. And that’s what makes designing and building in Guanacaste unique compared to other parts of the country.

Where It All Starts: The Land

Before sketches and floor plans, there’s the lot. It’s tempting to fall for the view first—who wouldn’t? But the real questions run deeper. Is the title clean? Is there water access? What’s the slope of the land?

The first time I looked at property here, I’ll admit, I didn’t even know what to ask. A hillside with sweeping ocean views looked perfect, until I learned about the cost of stabilizing soil for construction. That’s where experienced builders make the difference. They don’t just design; they help you choose wisely.

👉 Explore how we guide clients building in Costa Rica with confidence by evaluating land before design begins.

Designing for Lifestyle

Once the land is secure, the design can begin. And this is where it gets personal.

For families, homes might emphasize shared spaces, shaded patios where kids can play safely, or flexible rooms that grow with changing needs. For expats, the question often becomes: will this house double as a rental when we’re abroad? If so, design choices shift—extra bedrooms, private guest suites, or a pool layout that appeals to visitors.

Designing and building in Guanacaste isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s more like a conversation between what you picture in your head and what the land, climate, and culture suggest.

👉 See examples of our custom home designs in Costa Rica tailored to fit both lifestyle and location.

Modern or Traditional—or Both?

Here’s where things get interesting. Some clients lean toward modern: glass walls, clean lines, infinity pools that blur into the horizon. Others prefer traditional: clay-tile roofs, wooden beams, rustic courtyards.

But often the best projects combine the two. A contemporary open floor plan with a traditional roofline. A rustic stone terrace leading to a modern kitchen. In Guanacaste, design isn’t about strict categories. It’s about balance.

Engineering and Permits

Behind every graceful arch or wide terrace are engineers making sure it all works. Soil testing, structural stability, drainage—all of it matters here. Add to that the bureaucracy: municipal permits, environmental approvals, and utility connections.

For someone new to the country, this part can feel overwhelming. Trusted builders don’t just design; they navigate paperwork, often smoothing the process so construction doesn’t stall halfway through.

👉 Learn more about our turnkey construction services that handle permits, engineering, and building under one roof.

Construction in Action

This is where excitement meets reality. The ground breaks, foundations are poured, walls rise. And if you’re living abroad during the process, it’s also where trust matters most.

Finish Touch Enterprises manages construction from start to finish, even running its own woodshop for custom cabinetry and furniture. That kind of integration makes a difference. When everything is coordinated in-house, designs don’t get lost in translation.

Of course, there are still challenges. Rainy seasons slow progress, and materials sometimes need to be changed. But experienced teams adapt. They communicate, send updates, adjust timelines, and keep projects moving.

Outdoor Living: More Than a Feature

If you’ve spent even a few weeks here, you know outdoor living isn’t optional—it’s central. Terraces become living rooms. Pools are often the focal point. Even kitchens spill outside.

That’s why designing and building in Guanacaste always includes outdoor space as part of the plan, not as an add-on. It’s about creating homes that embrace the climate rather than fight it.

👉 Discover our pool design and construction services, which make outdoor spaces as functional as interiors.

Considering Investment Potential

For expats especially, there’s a practical side to building. Homes here often double as vacation rentals, generating income when owners aren’t around. A design that feels personal but also appeals to guests—extra bedrooms, a stunning pool, a location near beaches—adds value in more ways than one.

That’s another reason designing and building in Guanacaste requires careful thought. The right design can give you both a retreat and an investment.

Honest Realities

No build is perfect. Delays happen. Budgets shift. Weather interrupts. These things are part of the process.

But what separates trusted builders is how they handle it. Do they communicate clearly? Do they anticipate problems instead of hiding them? Experience, in this region especially, makes all the difference.

👉 See how we’ve earned trust over 40 years by guiding families and expats through residential construction in Costa Rica.

Why Finish Touch?

Plenty of companies offer design or construction. Fewer manage the entire process—land checks, design, engineering, permits, construction, finishes—all under one roof. That integration matters. It keeps your vision intact from the first sketch to the final set of keys.

For families, it means a home shaped around daily life. For expats, it means fewer sleepless nights, knowing someone is managing the details on the ground. And for anyone, it means the dream of living in Guanacaste feels less like a gamble and more like a guided path.

Conclusion: A Home That Belongs

At its core, designing and building in Guanacaste isn’t just about architecture. It’s about creating a place that belongs to the land, to the culture, and to you.

A terrace where mornings feel endless. A pool that turns afternoons into gatherings. A view that never really gets old. With Finish Touch Enterprises, those details don’t happen by accident. They’re designed, built, and handed over with care.

If you’ve been standing on a lot here, wondering what it would take to make the dream real, maybe the first step is just starting the conversation. From there, the process unfolds—sometimes slower than you’d hope, sometimes faster than you expect—but always toward the same goal: a home that feels truly yours.

Expat home building in Costa Rica

The Expat’s Guide to Building a Home in Costa Rica

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It usually begins the same way. You’re in Costa Rica on vacation—maybe in Guanacaste, maybe somewhere in the lush Central Valley—and you think, what if I lived here? At first, it’s a passing thought, something you tuck away when you get back on the plane. But for many expats, the thought doesn’t fade. It grows until one day you’re scrolling through land listings or talking to a builder about possibilities.

That’s where reality sets in. Expat home building in Costa Rica isn’t as simple as signing a contract and waiting for the keys. It comes with its share of questions, challenges, and decisions. But the good news? It’s entirely possible—and for many, deeply rewarding.

This guide doesn’t promise perfection. Instead, it walks you through what you need to know, the things that matter most, and the small details that can make or break your experience.

Why Expats Choose to Build Instead of Buy

Buying an existing home is the obvious shortcut. No waiting, no blueprints, no dealing with permits. But for expats, building often makes more sense.

Why? Because building gives you control. You can design for your lifestyle, not someone else’s. Single-level layouts if stairs are a concern. Extra guest suites if family visits. Pools, shaded terraces, open kitchens—all crafted to your preferences.

And perhaps most importantly, building means designing for the environment. Homes in Costa Rica need to breathe with the climate, resist humidity, and embrace outdoor living. That’s tough to retrofit into a prebuilt house.

👉 Explore our custom home designs in Costa Rica to see how expats create homes that suit both lifestyle and environment.

Step One: The Land

Every dream starts with land. But here’s where many expats stumble. That ocean-view lot might be stunning, but does it have water access? Is the title clean? What about zoning restrictions?

The first property I looked at years ago was gorgeous—until I learned it wasn’t legally registered. That’s a common mistake. The smart approach is to work with builders who evaluate land before you buy. They know the questions to ask and the pitfalls to avoid.

👉 See how we guide expats building in Costa Rica with confidence by starting with land checks and due diligence.

Step Two: Design with Purpose

Design is exciting, but it’s also practical. Expats need to consider:

  • Will the home double as a rental?
  • Do you plan to live full-time or part-time?
  • Is accessibility important now—or will it be in the future?

Expat home building in Costa Rica is about blending lifestyle with foresight. Maybe you want modern glass walls and infinity pools, or maybe you prefer traditional clay-tile roofs and shaded verandas. The best designs often mix the two.

👉 Browse our home designs in Guanacaste that merge modern comfort with Costa Rica’s traditional character.

Step Three: Permits and Paperwork

This is where patience gets tested. Costa Rican construction requires permits from municipalities, environmental studies, and water permissions. Each step has its own rhythm, and rushing rarely helps.

The key is having a builder who knows the system. Experienced teams navigate the process daily, so they know how to avoid unnecessary delays. For expats, especially those living abroad during the process, that’s peace of mind you can’t put a price on.

👉 Our turnkey construction services handle permits, engineering, and building under one roof.

Step Four: Construction in Motion

Breaking ground is exciting—but also nerve-wracking if you’re not here. Tropical rains slow progress, materials sometimes shift, and communication becomes everything.

The advantage of working with an integrated builder is that architects, engineers, and craftsmen are all aligned. At Finish Touch Enterprises, even the woodshop is in-house, producing custom cabinets, doors, and furniture that match your design. No waiting on imports. No juggling contractors.

This integration is why so many expats choose to build with a full-service company.

Outdoor Living Comes First

In Costa Rica, the outdoors isn’t an afterthought. It’s a lifestyle. Patios, terraces, pools, and gardens are as important as kitchens and bedrooms.

When designing, outdoor living spaces need as much attention as interiors. Shaded terraces for mornings, pools for afternoons, open gardens for evenings—it’s what makes the difference between a house that works and a house that feels alive.

👉 See our pool design and construction services that bring outdoor living into every home.

The Investment Factor

For many expats, building isn’t only about living here—it’s about long-term value. A well-designed home in Guanacaste or the Central Valley can become a strong rental property. Features like extra bedrooms, modern amenities, and a pool add appeal.

The smartest designs balance personal comfort with investment potential. That way, the house works for you whether you’re here or abroad.

A Few Honest Realities

It’s tempting to imagine a smooth journey. But construction here comes with delays, shifting budgets, and the unpredictability of weather. That’s not a reason to avoid building—it’s just a reality to accept.

What matters is choosing a builder who communicates clearly, adapts quickly, and stands by the process. That makes the difference between frustration and fulfillment.

Why Finish Touch Enterprises?

Experience matters. With over 40 years in the industry, Finish Touch has guided families and expats through every stage—from evaluating land to handing over keys. Their integrated model keeps vision consistent and stress low.

That’s why they’re trusted by so many expats embarking on the journey of home building in Costa Rica.

Conclusion: Turning the Dream Into Reality

At its core, expat home building in Costa Rica isn’t about blueprints or walls. It’s about shaping a life. It’s mornings on a terrace, afternoons in the pool, evenings when the air cools and the house feels like it belongs here—and to you.

If you’ve been carrying this dream, maybe the next step is simply starting a conversation. From there, the process unfolds, one step at a time, until the dream is no longer a thought but a door you open.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can expats legally own property in Costa Rica?
     Yes. Foreigners have the same property rights as locals, except in certain maritime zones.
  2. How much does it cost to build a home in Costa Rica?
     On average, quality builds range from $1000–$1700 per square meter, depending on design and finishes.
  3. Do I need residency to build a home?
     No. You can buy land and build without residency, though residency makes living here full-time easier.
  4. How long does construction take?
     Most projects take 12–18 months, depending on permits, design complexity, and weather.
  5. Why should expats choose an integrated builder?
     Because it reduces delays, keeps vision consistent, and ensures communication is clear—especially if you’re abroad during construction.

Call to Action

Ready to bring your dream of living in Costa Rica to life?
 👉 Contact Finish Touch Enterprises today for a consultation. From land checks to custom design and full construction, we help expats turn visions into homes.

House Construction Cost in Costa Rica

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Home in Costa Rica in 2025?

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It’s a question almost every future homeowner asks the moment the idea pops into their head: What is the real house construction cost in Costa Rica?

And to be honest, it’s not an easy one to answer. Prices vary, circumstances change, and expectations play a big role. Still, there are patterns—ranges you can plan around, lessons learned from those who have already built, and insights from companies that have been doing this for decades.

If 2025 is the year you’re finally moving from dreaming to building, this guide will help you understand the numbers, the hidden costs, and the choices that will influence your budget the most.

Why Costs Vary So Widely

Let’s start with a reality check: there is no single figure. The house construction cost in Costa Rica depends on multiple factors:

  • Location: The Building in Guanacaste by the beach is different from the building in the Central Valley near San José. Transportation, labor availability, and land preparation all affect price.
  • Design: A compact two-bedroom villa will obviously cost less than a sprawling luxury home with an infinity pool.
  • Materials: Local finishes can be cost-effective, while imported marble or high-end fixtures increase the budget.
  • Builder: Some contractors quote low upfront, but surprise you later. Established builders with integrated services often help you avoid “hidden” costs.

In other words, the cost isn’t just about square meters—it’s about choices.

Average Cost per Square Meter in 2025

As of 2025, the average house construction cost in Costa Rica ranges between $1,000 to $1,700 per square meter for quality builds.

  • Basic quality homes: $1,000–$1,200/m²
  • Mid-range modern designs: $1,300–$1,500/m²
  • Luxury custom homes: $1,600–$1,700+/m²

For context, a 200 m² (about 2,150 sq ft) mid-range home might cost between $260,000 and $300,000 before considering land, permits, and extras.

👉 See our Costa Rica construction services to understand how turnkey solutions streamline costs.

The Extras You Might Forget

It’s easy to focus on walls and roofs, but other expenses quickly add up:

  • Land preparation: Clearing, grading, or reinforcing slopes.
  • Permits and approvals: Municipal fees, environmental studies, water rights.
  • Utilities: Connecting to water and electricity.
  • Outdoor living: Pools, terraces, and landscaping are essential in Costa Rica—not “extras.”
  • Custom finishes: Woodwork, cabinetry, stonework.

These items can add 15–25% to the base house construction cost in Costa Rica.

👉 Discover our pool design and construction services—because in Costa Rica, pools are part of the lifestyle, not just a luxury.

Location: A Hidden Price Tag

Where you build matters as much as what you build.

  • Guanacaste: Coastal views are stunning, but logistics can increase material costs.
  • Central Valley: Easier access to suppliers, often lowering transport expenses.
  • Remote areas: Beautiful, yes, but harder to reach—meaning higher delivery and labor costs.

This is why working with experienced local builders saves money in the long run. They know how to navigate logistics, labor, and suppliers efficiently.

Modern vs. Traditional Design

Your style choices also influence cost. Modern homes with glass walls, steel framing, and imported finishes drive budgets up. Traditional homes with local materials—wood beams, clay-tile roofs, stone walls—tend to balance cost with authenticity.

Some of the most practical designs in Costa Rica combine both. A modern layout with traditional finishes can bring comfort without skyrocketing costs.

👉 Browse our custom home designs in Costa Rica to see examples of balanced design solutions.

Avoiding Surprises: The Importance of Integration

One of the biggest frustrations expats face is unexpected expenses. A permit takes longer than expected. A subcontractor adds a “surprise” charge. An imported material is delayed and costs double.

The solution? Work with a builder who manages everything—from land checks to permits, design, engineering, construction, and even finishes. When one company handles it all, fewer surprises appear on the bill.

That’s why Finish Touch Enterprises has been trusted for over 40 years. Integration saves time and money.

A Realistic Timeline

Budget isn’t just about money—it’s about time. Most builds take 12–18 months from design to keys in hand. Rushing almost always increases costs.

Being realistic about timeframes helps control expenses. Weather, paperwork, and supply chains all play roles. Builders who overpromise on speed usually make up for it later—with higher bills.

Conclusion: Planning Pays Off

So, how much does it cost? The honest answer: it depends. But if you plan for $1,200–$1,500/m² for a quality retirement or expat home, and keep 20% aside for extras, you’ll be in a good position.

The key is not just knowing the numbers—it’s working with a builder who is transparent, experienced, and integrated. That way, the dream of building in Costa Rica feels less like a gamble and more like an investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the average house construction cost in Costa Rica in 2025?
     Expect $1,000–$1,700 per square meter, depending on design and finishes.
  2. Is building cheaper than buying a home?
     Often, yes—especially for expats who want custom layouts. Building avoids retrofitting costs.
  3. Do I need residency to build in Costa Rica?
     No. Foreigners can legally own property and build without residency.
  4. What hidden costs should I budget for?
     Permits, land preparation, utilities, and outdoor living spaces can add 15–25% to the total.
  5. How can I control costs when building?
     Choose an integrated builder who manages permits, design, and construction under one roof.

Call to Action

Curious about the real cost of your dream home?
 👉 Contact Finish Touch Enterprises today for a consultation. From land checks to turnkey construction, we provide clear estimates and honest guidance—so you can build with confidence in Costa Rica.

Building a House in Costa Rica

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a House in Costa Rica with Finish Touch

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I think most people who’ve visited Costa Rica have had the same thought at least once: what if I lived here? Not just for a week. Not just for the vacation. But really lived here—in a house that felt like it belonged to the land, and in some small way, belonged to you.

That thought comes easy on a beach in Guanacaste or while driving through the green hills near San José. But then reality taps you on the shoulder. Building a house in Costa Rica? In a place where the laws, the climate, and even the building materials might be unfamiliar? Suddenly, the dream feels distant again.

Still… people do it. Every year, both foreigners and locals go through the process of building a home here. And while it isn’t always simple, it’s very possible—especially when you have the right team. That’s where Finish Touch Enterprises comes in. They’ve carved out their role as the guide who takes something overwhelming and breaks it down into clear, manageable steps.

So let’s walk through those steps. Not like a dry manual—because, honestly, who reads those?—but more like a conversation. Imagine us standing together on a hillside lot, trying to picture how this vague dream could turn into a real front door with keys in your hand.

Step 1: Choosing the Land

The very first decision isn’t the design or the pool—it’s the land. And this is where things get tricky. You might fall in love with an ocean-view property. Who wouldn’t? But is it legal to build on? Does it have access to water? Is the title clean?

The first time I looked at lots here, I barely knew what to ask. It’s easy to get swept away by the view and forget the basics. That’s why having Finish Touch involved early matters. They check zoning, verify ownership, confirm utilities—all the “boring” details that, in truth, make or break a project.

Skipping this step is the fastest way people lose money. Buying land without proper checks is like, well, building a house on sand. Literally and legally.

Step 2: Designing the Dream

Once the land is secure, this is where excitement takes over. Design. Most people already have Pinterest boards or magazines full of ideas—sleek infinity pools, open kitchens, balconies that stretch into the horizon.

But here’s what I didn’t realize at first: building a house in Costa Rica means designing differently. The tropical sun, heavy rains, and constant humidity all shape how a home should function. Ventilation is as important as square footage. Shaded terraces sometimes matter more than oversized living rooms.

Finish Touch doesn’t hand you cookie-cutter plans. They start with sample models—Casa Sol, Casa Palma, Casa Lujosa, names that sound like they belong on postcards—and then adapt. Want more glass? Done. Prefer more covered outdoor space? Also done.

And what’s reassuring is that their engineers—structural, civil, mechanical, even geological—are all in-house. You’re not waiting months for outside consultants. Everything comes together under one roof.

Step 3: Handling the Permits

Here’s the part where most people sigh: permits. Bureaucracy exists everywhere, and Costa Rica is no exception. Municipal approvals, environmental studies, water permissions—it’s a stack of documents taller than you expect.

This is where Finish Touch steps in again. They handle the process, navigating offices and approvals so your project doesn’t get stalled halfway through. For anyone planning on building a house in Costa Rica, this step can feel intimidating, but it’s essential. A missing stamp or overlooked form can freeze progress for months. With experienced hands, though, it moves forward.

Step 4: Construction in Motion

Finally—the part you imagine when you think of building a house in Costa Rica. The ground breaks, foundations are poured, walls rise where there was only sky. It’s thrilling and, let’s be honest, nerve-wracking too.

Construction isn’t clean. There’s noise, dust, and sometimes delays when rain pours for a week straight. But Finish Touch’s advantage is its turnkey approach. They design and build. They manage everything—from excavation to cabinetry—so you’re not juggling five different contractors who all point fingers when something goes wrong.

They even run their own woodshop. At first, that sounded like a small thing to me. But think about it: cabinets, doors, furniture—all custom-built to your design, right here, without import markups. It’s seamless, and it keeps costs predictable.

That kind of integration means fewer sleepless nights.

Step 5: Pools, Patios, and the Outdoors

In Costa Rica, the outdoors isn’t really “outside.” It blends with your living space. A terrace is another room, a pool another gathering spot.

Finish Touch treats pools and patios as central, not optional. Infinity pools that seem to melt into the ocean, family-friendly designs with playful curves, or square, modern layouts for lap swimming. They’re woven into the architecture from the start.

Inside, the same attention continues: stonework polished to handle humidity, decorative concrete that’s both durable and stylish, wood crafted to match the home’s personality. It’s these touches that give character.

If you’re thinking seriously about building a house in Costa Rica, don’t underestimate how much outdoor living will shape your daily life.

Step 6: The Keys

Eventually, the scaffolding disappears. The workers pack up. Silence returns. And there it is—your home, standing ready.

This is when Finish Touch hands you the keys. The idea is simple: you walk in and live. Not walk in and find unfinished punch lists taped to every wall. That’s what turnkey really means. For international clients, especially, it’s peace of mind. You’re not buying a project; you’re receiving a home.

Step 7: Living the Life (and the Investment)

One of the overlooked truths about building a house in Costa Rica is that it’s not just lifestyle—it can be a financial strategy. With tourism strong and rentals in demand, a well-built home often becomes a profitable investment.

Finish Touch keeps that in mind. They design homes that feel like retreats but also work as attractive vacation rentals. That flexibility means you can enjoy your property when you’re here, and let it earn income when you’re away. In time, it may even help cover the costs of ownership.

A Few Realities

To be honest, no construction process is perfect. Timelines stretch. Weather interrupts. Sometimes costs shift because materials need to change. Finish Touch’s experience helps them navigate these bumps, but expecting absolute perfection isn’t realistic.

The real value is knowing you have a team that’s solved these problems before. Forty years in the field means they’ve already handled challenges you might not even know exist. And they keep communication open—photos, updates, transparent budgets—so you’re never left wondering what’s happening.

Why Finish Touch?

Yes, there are other builders here. Plenty. But Finish Touch stands out because it integrates everything. They’re not just architects, or just contractors, or just consultants. They’re all of it.

When you’re building a house in Costa Rica, that integration matters. It means less confusion, fewer delays, and real accountability. From legal paperwork to woodshop finishes, everything connects under one roof.

Conclusion: From Dream to Doorstep

At the end of the day, building a house in Costa Rica isn’t only about bricks and roofs. It’s about taking a daydream and turning it into something tangible. Something you can open, walk into, and call yours.

Finish Touch Enterprises has built its reputation on guiding people through that transition. From choosing the lot to unlocking the front door, they make the journey less of a gamble and more of a guided path.

If you’ve been hesitating, maybe the first step is simpler than you think. Start with a conversation. Ask the questions. Imagine the possibilities. And let the process unfold, one step at a time, until the dream of Costa Rica isn’t just in your mind—it’s the view from your own terrace.

Balinese Bungalow, Bali style home design

Balinese Bungalow

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Casa Bali Serenity is a Bali Villa Design that commits to a sanctuary of tranquility and natural beauty, designed with an irregular topography landscape that brings a fragrant aroma of tropical flowers, creating an atmosphere of peace and serenity.  Landscape plants and flowers that particularly attract tropical birds and small animals for a nature sharing experience.

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Affordable Homes for sale in Costa Rica

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Buy affordable homes for sale in Costa Rica as an investment property, a second home, or the perfect ex-pat luxury residence.

Finish Touch Enterprises is a company dedicated to building affordable Costa Rica homes for sale, fully adjusted and customized to the needs, but most importantly, to the WANTS of each one of our clients.

Costa Rica Construction Company: Why Us?

When it comes to investing in offshore real estate, you want to make sure that you’re getting the best deal.

And by working with us, we can guarantee you the best value for the best price.

We can guarantee more comfortable prices because we count on our own Costa Rica construction crew and equipment.

Plus we also do the direct imports for any required materials.

This means that we are removing any third parties; allowing you to get an outstanding final price for your dream home in paradise.

Our Offices

Most Americans choose the Central Southern Pacific and the Guanacaste areas to buy Costa Rica investment property.

What’s great is that we at Finish Touch Enterprises count on offices at both of these amazing locations.

Our original office is located in Jaco, Puntarenas.

This is one of the best coastal towns in the full Central American regions, and it’s an area that’s in constant growth and expansion.

Our second office is located in Playas del Coco, Guanacaste.

And, needless to say, we have chosen this place to add a new office because of how popular this region has always been with Americans looking to move into the country, many of them ex-pats.

Affordable homes for sale in Costa Rica: frequently asked questions

Here are some of the most important questions related to buying affordable homes for sale in Costa Rica:

Can a US citizen buy Costa Rica real estate?

Let’s start with the big, big question, and the answer is YES.

As an American citizen, you can easily own Costa Rica houses.

And the great news is that you just need your passport and tourist visa to get local real estate under your name.

Now, when it comes to putting a property under your name, we recommend you to use a corporation.

This is simply because you will have a lot more real estate tools at hand.

And it’s also important to mention that when you’re buying Costa Rica land for sale located directly on the coast, you’re getting a concession.

This means that the real owner of the property is the Costa Rica government. 

And you’re getting the land under a concession deal that can be renovated every 5 years (you can also get concessions for up to 20 years).

With that said, no Americans have ever had a problem with the beautiful, stunning beachfront properties.

And, when it comes to re-selling, doing it it’s just as easy as selling a regular Costa Rica real estate property.

Is now a good time to invest in Costa Rica real estate?

The answer is YES!

Costa Rica is the perfect option when you’re looking to invest in offshore real estate.

And, right now the North American real estate market is booming.

This means that you can easily sell high back at home, and then contact us here at Finish Touch Enterprises so that we can help you buy affordable homes for sale in Costa Rica.

We can help you build a beautiful property either to become part of the family’s legacy or to resell purposes.

Is it cheap to live in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is definitely more affordable than living in the United States.

In fact, you can have a great lifestyle in this country with $2,000 per month. And this includes your mortgage payments.

In other words, Costa Rica is the perfect place to live comfortably, without breaking the bank.

Is Costa Rica still a good place to retire?

Costa Rica remains the best place in the globe for American citizens to retire to.

First because as an ex-pat you will enjoy a lot of tax privileges.

And also because the country offers more political stability than most countries in Latin America.

What is required to move to Costa Rica?

If you want to move to Costa Rica to start a new life as a local ex-pat, there are a great couple of options:

  • Rentista Program: To apply for this program you must report a monthly income superior to $2,500 for two years. With that said, if you deposit $60,000 into a local bank, you can save yourself the waiting period.
  • Pensionado Program: This program is easier as you just need to report income superior to $1,000 coming from a pension source.

What is Traspaso or Escritura?

When you’re looking for affordable homes for sale in Costa Rica, you will see or hear the words “Traspaso” or “Escritura”

And these are just the Spanish words referring to the title change of property.

So, this is basically the document that states that you own Costa Rica houses for sale.

How is the title transferred?

In order to transfer a property in Costa Rica to your name, or to put it under the name of a corporation (recommended), you will require the help of a public notary.

Here at Finish Touch Enterprises, we’ll be more than pleased to help you will all the legal details so that we can get the new property under your name.

With that said, you can also choose your own local lawyer. And we will happy to make your lawyer part of the team that will get you the home of your dreams in Costa Rica.

Once the document has been drafted by the public notary, it’s time to take it to the Public Registro or Registro Public.

This is the place that stores all recorded data related to property movements.

If everything looks good with the new Traspaso or Escritura, then the property will be properly registered, and you or your corporation will become the new owners.

Affordable homes for sale in Costa Rica: property types

Now, when it comes to homes for sale in Costa Rica, these are the type of properties we have available for you:

Costa Rica real estate: Second-home away from home

Winters can be rough nowadays. And that has pushed a lot of Americans to look overseas for the perfect second home away from home.

This way they can avoid the winters at home while getting warm baths of sun next to their new pool in Costa Rica…

And, a lot of people believe this is an option that’s available only for affluent individuals.

But this can’t be farther away from the truth.

And that’s because there are companies like Finish Touch Enterprises that are able to offer the best possible price for beautiful, custom-designed homes for sale in Costa Rica.

As mentioned above, we have our own crew and equipment; and we do our own imports of raw construction materials.

And for that reason, we can offer you affordable, high-quality residential properties that will be the perfect oasis for you, your family, and your friends.

Ex-pat Affordable Homes for sale in Costa Rica

For more than 4 decades now, a lot of Americans have also decided to sell their properties back home and come and start a brand new life in Costa Rica by joining the local ex-pat community.

With time, we have managed to create the perfect home design for a new life as an ex-pat in Costa Rica.

When you’re building a home in Costa Rica with our company, we’ll sit down with you and present you with our different models.

Once you’ve found your favorite one, we will start working on adding the custom details that will really make this new home YOURS.

What’s great about this is that our team also includes our very own in-house interior designer.

So, we can basically adjust the interior of your brand new ex-pat home so that you can find comfort and satisfaction in every single corner of every single room.

Costa Rica investment property

Now, apart from buying affordable homes for sale in Costa Rica, you can also buy Costa Rica investment property.

This means that you can acquire Costa Rica homes for sale with the purpose of reselling, or as part of a new vacation rental business.

Here at Finish Touch Enterprises, we have amazing custom models that are perfect for either of those two options.

We will take our original home design, and will apply all the custom details to make sure you will end up with a property that will go beyond your expectations.

Thank you for your interest in Finish Touch Enterprises and our beautiful, affordable homes for sale in Costa Rica!

Home Building Articles

Build a home in Costa Rica

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Build a home in Costa Rica as a way to start creating a more prosperous future, with the help of the best home builders.

Buying Costa Rica investment property means that you’re getting assets that will continue to appreciate even during recession times.

Why?

It’s simple: This is a beautiful, peaceful country, with no army, and with the most political stability in the region.

And foreign investment is more than welcome.

In fact, the government knows foreigners are a source of wealth for the local economy in all senses.

And for that reason, they definitely want more ex-pats to start calling this amazing country their new home.

Work with a reliable Costa Rica construction company

If you want to build a home in Costa Rica and get the best value without overspending, work with a reliable Costa Rica construction company such as Finish Touch Enterprises.

We have been creating the most amazing homes in the best spots all around the Central Southern Pacific and Guanacaste regions for decades.

And as we know foreign buyers well, we’re always working on improving our current set of 30+ home designs.

All with the goal of offering a custom result that will satisfy not just the needs, but most importantly, the WANTS from each one of our clients.

What’s great about our company is that we count on our own Costa Rica construction crew and equipment.

And this means that we know how to think and work as a solid unit. Delivering residential projects in a fast and efficient way.

Plus, we are direct importers of materials. So this means a lot of savings for those working with a set budget.

Build a home in Costa Rica as an investment property

Costa Rica offers you the perfect scenario so that you can become a successful owner of investment property Costa Rica.

This is because all you need to own Costa Rica real estate is your tourist visa. That’s it.

And the return on investment it’s outstanding for these kinds of custom-designed properties that Americans love.

The great thing is that when you build a home in Costa Rica with Finish Touch Enterprises, we can design it with your particular selling intentions in mind.

For example, let’s say that you’re looking for Costa Rica real estate for ex-pats for your growing portfolio holding…

Then we can work on the perfect residential project for those looking for Costa Rica retirement homes for sale.

Or, maybe you want to build Costa Rica new homes for those searching for the perfect oasis away from the cold winters at home?

Maybe you want to create your own Costa Rica Airbnb empire by building one or more Costa Rica houses?

And indeed, our custom builders company can definitely help you get the exact result you’re currently envisioning.

Costa Rica homes for sale: The perfect ex-pat custom residence

Let’s also discuss the possibility of you owning your own ex-pat exclusive residence in Costa Rica.

Here at Finish Touch Enterprises, we have worked with an extensive list of ex-pats who have chosen this wonderful country to start a new, re-envigorating life in paradise.

We have a number of exclusive models that have been designed with ex-pats in mind.

This means that these wonderful homes really offer you a number of amenities that will allow you to have the best time, all the time.

Build a home in Costa Rica: Become an ex-pat

What’s great about owning residential property in Costa Rica is that you automatically apply to become a resident.

During the waiting time for you to become a permanent resident of the country, all you need to do is to step out of the border for 72 hours every 3 months, and then you can return for another 3 months with your tourist visa.

All in all, the American and Costa Rica governments are very friendly towards the other.

And that means that as an American that’s registering Costa Rica investment property to move into the country, you will really be perceived as an ex-pat by everybody.

And you will really find this is a country that you will definitely enjoy living in.

Not just because of all the natural beauty. But also because this is a very American-like country, particularly in the coastal areas where our company operates.

Right at the coast in the Central Souther Pacific and Guanacaste, you will find yourself in your own stunningly beautiful isolated oasis; yet, you will be just minutes away from amazing restaurants; a lot of them run by successful ex-pats like yourself.

So, living in Costa Rica, and particularly in these amazing areas, means that you will feel in a new incredible environment, surrounded by nature you will feel thrilled to explore.

And you will also feel close to the people and the culture from back home because of this phenomenal, growing ex-pat community in the country.

Homes for sale in Costa Rica: Your second home away from home

If you don’t want to move to the country permanently, yet you still want to own Costa Rica real estate, then we can help you build a home in Costa Rica so that you can escape the long winters in the warmer, friendlier regions.

And now everybody is working away from the office.

So you can come and work from your new home in Costa Rica. Trusting that this is a country that counts with the best technical infrastructure for any professional to deliver work remotely fast and efficiently.

Build a home in Costa Rica: Contact Us

Do you really wish to have a great future as a successful real estate investor?

Start by contacting CEO Michael Pechbrenner so that we can offer you a FREE CONSULTATION on how our company can help you turn your residential project plans into a reality.

Home Building Articles

Costa Rica Houses: Design & Build Homes

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If you’re searching for Costa Rica Houses for Sale, building a home is a fantastic alternative!

Don’t pay a lot of cash for a house that is someone else’s project.

Instead, allow Finish Touch Enterprises, top Costa Rica Homes Builders to help you create a custom residential real estate masterpiece.

By working with Finish Touch, you will find the perfect mix of outstanding value, great prices, and most of all, vast experience.

Costa Rica Houses: Our Builders Team

Go ahead and take the next step in designing a fabulous residential investment property with the help of Finish Touch Enterprises SRL.

Allow us to make your Costa Rica houses plans and turn them into the home you’ve always wanted for your family, or to be used as an Airbnb Costa Rica vacation rental.

We’re on a mission: to help you build a house in Costa Rica that will not just meet your standard needs. Our team goes beyond that by offering you what you actually WANT in a residential investment property.

We’re also the best at what we do. And that means that our crew works just with high-quality materials. But this doesn’t mean higher prices to you.

On the contrary, we’re famous for offering warehouse prices as we’re able to operate independently from any middlemen.

Oh, and let’s not forget the fact that we ALWAYS deliver our projects on time, no exceptions to this rule.

By the time you’re handed the door keys, you and your family will definitely feel completely happy with the final results.

Contact CEO Michael Pechbrenner

Please allow our crew of professional Costa Rica Houses Builders to create an outstanding, unique home design, and create the home of your dreams, all under your guided supervision.

We’re now inviting you to get in touch with CEO Michael Pechbrenner, so that you can discuss not just your needs, but most importantly, the WANTS related to Costa Rica Houses for Sale.

Michael is a real estate pro with over 40 years of experience under his belt. Allow him to provide you with a FREE consultation.

Costa Rica Houses for Sale: Design & Construction

Only a reputable architectural firm such as Finish Touch Enterprises is able to allow you to design and build a home in Costa Rica with total freedom.

We’ve carefully chosen all of our home design models, and we’re sure all of them will completely satisfy your needs.

With that said, what we do when building Costa Rica Houses is to focus on your actual WANTS.

On the specific things that will make your investment property in Costa Rica one that will definitely become a highlight in the area.

Costa Rica Construction Services

When building Costa Rica Houses, any mistakes can end up being very costly long-term.

For this reason, you should take control of your own Costa Rica construction project.

And the only way to do that is by working with a top, reliable company such as Finish Touch Enterprises.

So, with the house plans and the Costa Rica Land for Sale, all in place, the very next step is to start construction.

House orientation

Before we start building Costa Rica Houses for Sale, what we do first is to make sure we’re all agree on the proper house orientation.

This is because the physical position of the investment property is crucial.

Why? Well because you want to get as much sun inside the house as possible. And for this reason, you want your windows to face East.

Another key factor is the wind. You also want windows to be positioned according to the actual wind’s direction so as to allow as much fresh natural air as possible (saving you a ton in AC billing).

The orientation of Costa Rica Houses is also key because you want to avoid having your windows facing directly those of your neighbors.

By considering this element, you’re adding to the privacy factor of your investment property in Costa Rica. And this can definitely influence the value of your home in a positive way.

Landscaping and Interior Design

Let’s also not forget about our landscaping and interior design services!

Yes, Finish Touch counts with an in-house interior decorator. And this allows you to sit down and explain to us exactly how you want the interior of your home to look like.

And, we can also take care of the full landscape of the property, giving it the right curb appeal that will make your home in Costa Rica turn heads.

Best Materials

At Finish Touch Enterprises, we definitely believe that high-quality materials make all the difference.

And, you doubtlessly want to work with a contractor that offers you the best materials at the best possible prices.

Needless to say, this is the kind of services Finish Touch Enterprises can offer you.

If you’re wondering how is it that we can do this, the answer is simple: We don’t work with any intermediaries.

And that allows us to offer the lowest warehouse prices available in the Costa Rica Construction market.

Costa Rica Homes for Sale: Investment Property

A company like Finish Touch is perfect to help you build Costa Rica houses destined to help you make a profit.

Indeed, with our help, your offshore investment property project can really take up without consuming all of your resources or those of your business partners.

There are really hundreds of good reasons why you would like to venture into the overseas investment property market, particularly a booming one such as coastal Costa Rica Real Estate.

Maybe you want to build the perfect vacation home to spend time with your loves…

Or maybe you want to build Costa Rica houses with the purpose of renting them year-round on websites such as Airbnb, Booking.com, or VRBO.com

Or it might just be the time for you to make a move and start enjoying the ex-pat life in paradise.

Maybe it’s a combination of any of these and other factors!

Well, the good news is that if you’re familiar with property investment in the United States, then you will already be very familiarized with what it takes to acquire Costa Rica Houses for sale, including designing and building them.

Now, there are also some questions you might want to brainstorm about before actually moving into the investing part of your Costa Rica house plans. Such questions include, but are not limited to:

  • Are you going to be living there?
  • Are you buying as an ex-pat?
  • Do you have a budget, or are you getting the money from someone else?
  • Are these going to be your retirement funds?

Indeed, take the time to answer these questions, and by the time you’re done, you’ll have a solid understanding of why investing in Costa Rica Real Estate is a fantastic idea.

Building a House in Costa Rica: Personal Home

Imagine being able to build a custom home in Costa Rica according to what you really WANT…

When you build Costa Rica Houses with the help of Finish Touch Enterprises SRL, you can really build according to what you truly WANT.

Once you’ve spoken with our CEO, and we know exactly what your exact WANTS are, we’ll customize the best of our models, according to your budget, so that you can end up with the best of homes.

Now, here are some questions you might want to brainstorm about:

  • What is the actual price range you’re considering?
  • How many family members?
  • Do you know how many bedrooms you want?
  • What is the use you’ll be giving to that spare room (s)? Maybe an office? your own man cave?
  • How much the dining room really matter to you?
  • What are the particular features your home can’t miss?
  • The stuff you can actually do without?
  • What is it that you love and hate about the current place where you live?

By taking the time to evaluate yourself with the above questions, you can definitely end up with a great understanding of the actual WANTS you want to specify to our group of expert Costa Rica Home Builders.

Airbnb Costa Rica: Building a Home for Vacation Rentals

Costa Rica is the perfect place to design and build houses with the purpose of turning them into Airbnb money makers.

And here are Finish Touch Enterprises we’re experts at offering our clients all the weapons they need so that their investment properties can really become profitable during the full year and not just during the high season.

In fact, we count on our own interior decorator, whose expertise will really come in handy when it comes to creating the right spaces that will turn your custom home into a Costa Rica Airbnb favorite.

Get ready for fantastic savings! Make the most out of your investment property dollars. Here are some questions to consider:

  • Are you familiar with today’s procedures for building a house in Costa Rica?
  • Do you count on a set budget?
  • What do you want in a home? What features?
  • Have you seen any properties that you liked?

If building a Costa Rica home for vacation rental purposes is what you want, then ask yourself the following questions:

  • How familiar are you with the current procedures related to building Costa Rica houses?
  • What is your set budget? Do you have one? Or will you be looking for external financing?
  • What are the kind of features you want in this home, internal and external?
  • Have you observed other properties you like, and that you would like us to emulate for you in your lot?

Contact Us

Now we invite you to check out our different Costa Rica home designs, reserve your favorite one, and let’s start your new Costa Rica houses project!

Send us your info:

Building Articles

Building A House In Costa Rica

Building A House In Costa Rica: Custom Home Builders

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Building a House in Costa Rica: Methods

Building a House in Costa Rica: Architect

Let’s talk about building a house in Costa Rica, and about the architect that will help you with the design of your real estate property.

Often practiced when building Costa Rica real estate homes for sale and often has favorable results.  However, there is risk involved.  Which would be important for you to understand.  For the purpose of when you interview your professional.

Building a house in Costa Rica

Firstly, to become an architect requires 4 years of university.  Where they are taught BIM computer programs such as AutoCAD, Rivet.  Which are the primary software programs for architectural design.  Equally, they make construction drawings in 2 dimensions.  For floor plans and elevations.  In addition, they are taught computer programs for making 3d renders.

The entire educational training is focused to develop.  Firstly, their skill in designing attributes for architectural elements (make a nice design drawing).

Secondly, software training to implement their design for presentation (presentation training for marketing).  There is no educational training for Building a House in Costa Rica.

Building a house in Costa Rica

Most importantly, they are not given one hour of training in engineering. Neither structural engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering nor mechanical engineering.  Which are key components to your home’s functionality.

Even though, as a certified architect with CFIA, they do not require licensed engineering stamps for buildings under 3 stories.  Wow, how scary is that.

Furthermore, the architect will enter generic structural details from a book.  Without any understanding of the elements design.  Simply a hit and miss on structural detail.  This also holds true with HVAC engineering, mechanical engineering, and civil engineering.

Knowledge of engineering

Usually, there are no considerations for civil engineering and stormwater management. As well as mechanical engineering for black water management, and greywater management.  Also, HVAC design is all implemented into your home design.  All of which, without a professional licensed engineer’s influence.

Architecture Firm Costa Rica

Moreover, they have no training even in the basics of how to calculate bearing and horizontal stress.  In order to design rebar size and layout for columns and footings.

Which essentially holds up your house.  In fact, they draw from a generic schedule usually from a book.  These structural elements may possibly be undersized which is based on the load-bearing.

Or it may be oversized which is going to generate unnecessary costs. In addition to causing additional structural stress.

As a result of over-engineering a structure.  Which adds additional weight and stress to Building a House in Costa Rica.  Although stronger is not better because buildings do require a bit of tensile flex.  Especially in seismic zones (all of Costa Rica).

Recommended to request for your property

Consequently, to save money an architect may avoid sub-contracting engineering services.  As well as property studies.  All of which are optional and not mandatory (as they should be mandatory).  Yet the architect is designing structures that weigh more than 150 tons.  Which is a lot of weight distributed over a small area.  Therefore, it would be very much advisable to your favor.  Accordingly, to request the following:

  1. Accordingly have geotechnical studies done on your property. In order to check soil density and infiltration
  2. Correspondingly have a structural engineer review your preliminary design. As well as geotechnical studies.  This should proceed with the detailed construction drawings.  Also, inspections should be negotiated with reports
  3. In addition, have a mechanical engineer design your water distributions. Which includes venting, and waste management.  Also, inspections should be negotiated as well.  For pressure testing and report results
  4. If, your property has slopes and hills. Then involve a civil engineer.  For stormwater management, property access, black water design.
  5. Finally, the electrical engineer is mandatory. However, many are friends with the architect.  Which rarely come for inspections.  Therefore, you should meet with the electrical engineer.  As you will want your electrical designs to exceed code.  Including additional receptacles and lighting options.  Also, request inspections with reports.

Building a House in Costa Rica: Attributes for hiring an architect

When I review an architect’s curriculum.  Notably, I already know they graduated.  So, I skim over that part.  But I spend more time on their additional achievements and certificates.

This begins to tell me the story towards which category of employee they fit into 1 or 2.  In addition, it tells me their ability and knowledge towards understanding the mechanics of structure together with aesthetics.  In addition, I also like to look at an architect’s portfolio.

They all have them.  Which demonstrates their potential command of the programs.  Perhaps you have read my article Be Your Own Contractor.  Where I use the example of hiring a trim carpenter.

Where as some possess the skills for high quality. 

While the majority deliver mediocre results. 

Finally, there are those with dull blades. 

Equally the same holds true here.  Whereas the graduated architects leave the university.  All of which with their graduation certificates. However, only a few came from the top of the class.  That is who you’re searching for.

In summary to find a top of the class architect:

  • Notably a good command of presentation programs
  • Including clear, concise with relevant details on construction drawings without stuffing
  • A uniquely diversified portfolio without redundant architectural elements
  • Most importantly ambition with enthusiasm from the second class of employee
  • In addition to having certificates, credits, and accomplishments in other aspects of property development.

The cohesion of an architect and construction quality:

Costa Rica home builders

Most likely, your architect has no construction experience in Building a House in Costa Rica.  Similarly, he does not have any hands-on experience. Together with precision installations.  Including concrete mixes with the ability to recognize hydration proxies for concrete.  As well as other cement products including stucco, and wall plasters, etc.

Let’s begin with an architect’s prime contribution to your building a home project.  Simply, your architect will draw you the picture.

He will size the rooms and add appealing finishes.  Which you request.  In addition, he will attempt to moderate a budget for you.  However, only the builder will define the actual cost of construction.

Building homes in Costa Rica

In conclusion, how is he qualified in Building a House in Costa Rica?  Moreover, how is he to recognize when a contractor is doing a poor installation?  Furthermore, does he recognize a cold weak weld?  Which is compared to an emulsified binding weld?  More importantly, does he recognize stone nests or honeycomb in concrete mixes?

As a matter of fact, I find it interesting.  As to how many people put their faith, and life savings.  Into the hands of an unqualified administrator for building a house in Costa Rica.  Perhaps they hire a dentist to fix their car.

To explain a functional design

In reality it is the engineers that make the drawing functional.  Firstly, the structural engineer will design beam dimensions.  As well as column dimensions.  Including roof materials. Which are based on span and weight. Furthermore, he will calculate rebar sizes and quantity, and concrete strengths.

In addition, your electrical engineer will lay out your lighting and receptacles.  Including calculating lumens for each room.  In addition to sizing the panel boxes.  Furthermore, to balance your load phases.  As well as calculate load potentials and load demand.  In addition, he will design your low voltage systems.  Which include telephone, cable tv, security, intercom, telecommunications for WIFI.  As well as any other relevant system specifically for your home.

Moreover, HVAC engineers will design compressor and condenser locations.  Resulting from elevation installations.  In order to calculate lead line sizes.  Together with air handler ductwork sizes.  For distributions resulting in maximum efficiency.  Which contribute to climate control, humidity control, mold inhibitor, etc.

These descriptions are basic summaries.  Each description could have a much more detailed explanation for Building a House in Costa Rica.  However, our objective is to communicate the relevance and importance to include these services in your design.

Building a house in Cosa Rica

Correspondingly the mechanical engineer will design pipe sizes.  For potable waters and hot water layout.  To result in even pressure and logical locations of hot water systems.

Furthermore, he will design systems of black waters, grey waters, and storm waters management. So, your flow is consistent and vented according to or better than code.

Consequently, many of these calculations are redundant 8 out of 10 times.  Therefore, most architects bi-pass these professional services.  Whereas, they just use a redundant generic schedule.  Whereas he will be correct 8 out of 10 times instead of having these specifically engineered reports.  Although not a Costa Rica requirement it is commonly neglected.  Only to the financial benefit of the Architect.

When you are making an investment towards building a house in Costa Rica.  It would be wise to include the necessary professionals.  To put it another way, would you be comfortable if your pilot bi-passes the weight and balance calculations.  Before taking off because the results are the same 8 out of 10 times?  Most importantly, this is not an area to cut corners to save on budget.

Hire an architect for building a house in Costa Rica

Consequently, the risk to hire an architect for building a house in Costa Rica.  When we already know he does not have tools.  Neither does he have a work crew.  As well as he doesn’t have first-hand building experience.

Building a house in Costa Rica

Including there has been no apprentice program or intern program from a school requirement.  Furthermore, there are no basic engineering courses involved with architecture school.  In conclusion, his skills are limited to drawing design and the ability to present you with an artistic render.

Most commonly, when you contract your architect to build a home in Costa Rica.  That the architect will sub-contract the build to a builder.  Usually, somebody, he works with frequently or a family member.

This is most likely biased and not based on experience or quality performance. They will have a working relationship and depend on each other’s expertise.

On the other hand, he may recommend to you a builder, emphasizing the conviction of the builder’s quality.  Whereas it is most likely the objective is to collect the commission at the other end.  Which is a typical practice in Costa Rica.  So now you are paying your architect a fee directly or indirectly.

To Summarize

Accordingly, the best recommendation I can make for those choosing this method.  Would be to have a very detailed and itemized pro forma of construction, which should include all material quantities.  Including allowances for plumbing and light fixtures.  As well as flooring and countertops.

Continuing with work schedules and explanation of the crew.  Which will include labor expenses and government responsibilities.  Keep in mind, now your architect and builder’s allegiance are with each other and they will support one another.

If one asks for more money, the other will support him.  Your architect’s allegiance most likely will shift from you to the builder.  Once the Building a House in Costa Rica construction process begins.

Legal note:

A builder’s responsibility is to report payroll monthly to CCSS and INS.  Government responsibility payments are made monthly.  Should your builder bi-pass this responsibility by paying the crew cash.  In the event this gets discovered.  The government will lien the property and the property owner will be liable for these fees at the government’s calculations.  Which will include interest and penalties.

Architecture Firm For Building A House in Costa Rica

This method is favored over all other methods listed in this article.  For building a house in Costa Rica.  For reasons of convenience, simplicity, and project security.  Most commonly this type of method has intimidated property owners.  Typically to hire a firm of any sort is expensive.  However in reality, in this case, this method is more often far less expensive.

  • Uniquely ideal for building budgets $150k and higher.
  • Comparatively an architect firm has bundled a team of professionals. Therefore, providing superior results at warehouse pricing.
  • Accordingly, architect firm services are available throughout the country.
  • It will be explained the difference between the two options:
    • Firstly, an Architect – is a one-person operation. Whom will facilitate your project.  As well as organize professionals and sub-contractors. For a fee usually based on a percentage of the project value.
    • Secondly an Architect Firm – Is a board of professionals with individual master’s degree in specific areas of construction. In addition, architect firms are associated or partnered with a general contractor.  For the successful completion of your project.

Architecture Firms Stability

Architecture Firms are rooted and established.  They comply with all laws and bi-laws of Costa Rica.  In addition, they support their works by offering warranties.  More importantly, they are equipped with the necessary professionals to complete your designs and constructions.  Furthermore, they are available in all zones of Costa Rica.

Home Designing Service

Let’s not take the human factor out of designing a house in Costa Rica.  As well as building a house in Costa Rica.  To begin the initiation of building a house in Costa Rica starts with the designing stage.

This generates emotion and an excitement response.  Often with disbelieving at the same time as excitement, and anxiety.  There may be moments of stress and concern.  Coupled with anticipation and patience (or lack of).

With that being said by employing an architect firm.  Which will simplify a complex process.  Continuing with the building a house in Costa Rica stage whereas you are already familiar with the professionals.  Which you have developed a working relationship.

Notwithstanding that trust is earned and not granted.  Therefore, continuing your building a house in Costa Rica.  With an already proven and trusted architect firm.  Which makes good logical sense.

To summarize

It is to the benefit of the property owner that there is cohesion between the architect firm and the construction crew.  Therefore, when the working crew requires clarification or an on-site decision presents itself.  There is direct communication established between the two entities.  Furthermore, the professionals make frequent visits to the site for inspections and confirmation of adequate installation processes.  With builders and architects, this would be a paid service that requires scheduling.  However, with an architect firm, the professionals are available to the crews at all times with no fees.

Finish Touch Enterprises SRL is an Architecture Firm with a General Contractors’ license.  Therefore, I will not continue the advantages of an architecture firm here.  There are several articles explaining with detail.  Beginning with: Architect Firm and Costa Rica General Contractor

Second of Three Methods to Building a House in Costa Rica

Employ Custom Home Builders

Hire a home builder

For most people, choosing a builder can be most taunting.  Whereas it is a very important decision.  Because this finalizes all your efforts from choosing to come to Costa Rica.

To begin with, searching for property.  Continuing with finding an architect.  Furthermore, going through the process of designing a house.  Finally, now the fruits of all your labors come to this last decision.  Which is who are you going to choose to put it all together.

If this results in a bad decision, all your previous efforts would be in vain, turning your dream into a nightmare.

Therefore, let’s not drop the ball now.  Let’s make the right decision.  Which will make your dream a reality.

I’ve written an article which explains the different classes of a builder.  To clarify which class, they are best qualified.  You may read the article Class Grades of Costa Rica Builders.  In addition, there is an article to prepare you for hiring a builder.

Want to BE’s aka Two-Faced Custom Home Builders

Within this paragraph is in reference to people who pass themselves off as a builder.  Perhaps they have built for friends or their own home.  However, their main source of income comes from owning another business.

Such as a hotel, or cabanas, or a rancher or store owner who also builds on the side.  These types of ‘builders want to be’s are generally facilitator.  Which are not established with building suppliers nor manufacturers.

Most commonly they solicit their service on a commission basis.  Thereupon collecting commissions from the property owner, suppliers, sub-trades.  In some instances, even from the employees.

Usually, this class of custom home builders is without a license or building quadrennial.  Which they resolve themselves from all responsibility.  These people usually fall in the first class of employees as described in a previous article.

Now let’s get serious

Certified Custom Home Builders in Costa Rica

Building a house in Costa Rica

Firstly, when you contract Costa Rica home builders, most importantly you want this builder to be registered with the Colegio Federado De Arquitectos Y Ingenieros De Costa Rica bar (CFIA), which is the federal building department that enforces federal building codes.

Also, within the CFIA offices.  Include the Ministerio de Salute (Ministry of Health), as well as environmental ministries.

To explain that to register as a General Contractor is not mandatory in Costa Rica.

In fact, many builders do not register themselves as general contractors, which is curious because it protects the consumer with the bi-laws of the Consumer and Cooperative Affairs (Better Business Bureau).  If I forget to mention: Finish Touch Enterprises SRL CC-08073.

Structural Warrantee

In order to obtain a CFIA federal permit for Building a House in Costa Rica, you will require CFIA registered professional to be responsible for the project.

This will appear on your approved blueprints. Usually the architect’s name and CFIA carne number.  This person is responsible to make weekly inspections.  In addition to record in the Batricula the results of the inspections.  Basically, that the construction conforms with the plans.

If there is a structural issue with the house within 5 years, which is due to faulty workmanship or failed material.  Then the CFIA will demand the responsibility to correct the issue.

On the other hand, if your builder is not registered. then you’re on your own.  If your builder was to cut corners, the house warranty issue will be the property owner’s responsibility.

Notably when hiring a builder is to know the stability of the builder.  Is he rooted, does he have assets?

Hopefully, your builder is in a financially stable position to make the repairs, or does your builder live from payday to payday?

INS

To explain the INS insurance is mandatory insurance.  Which is basically worker’s compensation insurance.  When you apply for your municipal permit (after receiving your federal permit).

The municipality will issue a ticket, which you carry to an INS agency and pay.  Following your return to the Municipality with proof of payment and they will issue a Municipal permit.

To clarify once you receive your federal permit, the CFIA will stamp a calculated construction value on your permit.  The Municipality will use 35% of this value as an estimated labor cost.  Continuing with the INS policy will be 3.6% of labor cost.

Most importantly having worker’s compensation insurance is a very important factor when Building a House in Costa Rica.

For reasons that accidents can happen easily, which are usually with a degree of severity.  Furthermore, there is no avoiding paying for INS. Because it is a part of the permit process.

Notably, that INS coverage includes 30 minutes before work and 30 minutes after work as they travel on their wobbly motorcycles with no brakes.

Paying INS and CCSS is the first step for insurance

The truth of the matter is you are not protected because the mandatory policy is paid.  To satisfy the policy the payroll must be reported monthly.  Included in the report is the employee’s name.

As well as a copy of their identification.  Which may be either cedula or passport number.  Continuing the report will show his rate of pay and his earnings for the past month.

In conclusion, the worker’s compensation insurance is only valid for those identification numbers. Therefore, any other person injured on-site is without coverage.

In addition to INS payroll reporting.  There is a copy of the same report to the CCSS.  Which is the socialize medical of Costa Rica.  To explain if an injury occurs. Then the person is transported to the clinic or hospital. Whereas his CCSS card is presented. Once it’s been established that the injury is work-related. Accordingly, he will be transferred to INS.

However, if your builder does not report payroll by the 8th, of each month, then INS will not cover the cost of an accident.

Neither will CCSS and most likely an investigation will commence. Most importantly by not complying with the Costa Rica payroll laws. Which may result in criminal and civil legal actions.  Most commonly are against the property owner where the violation occurred.

Building a House in Costa Rica: Cost of payroll taxes

The total amount which should be escrow from payroll calculations is 52.66%.  Which includes paid statutory holidays, vacation pay, liquidation cost, etc.  From 52.66% the monthly remittance for CCSS calculates to 38%.

To conclude that avoiding these payroll taxes is of no benefit to you.  In actuality, you are the one with all the risk.  As to mention your builder is free to go.

Therefore, you should not let your contractor convince you to bypass this expense when Building a House in Costa Rica.  Notably, if your builder wishes to cheat the government.  Then it stands to reason he will cheat you as well.

To clarify that this article is not meant to scare you.  But rather to explain a legal fact that you can verify.  From the following resources; CCSS or INS or your bank manager, or CFIA or your lawyer or your accountant.

In retrospect, these faulty practices were common in Costa Rica.  As there was little policing or enforcement.  However, within the last 10 years in Costa Rica.

I have personally witnessed a substantial amount of corruption get prosecuted.  In conclusion, old-schooled builders may still believe they can get away with it.  Stating that this is how things are done here.  In reality, the risk is very high and most likely will be discovered.

Another option of INS policy

On the other hand, for a builder that has permanent employees, most likely will have a permanent INS policy.  Meaning this builder will have a certificate of clearance document from INS. So this is the perfect scenario when Building a House in Costa Rica.

This proves that INS is prepaid, and all workers are covered.  Personally, Finish Touch Enterprises SRL’s policy also includes the general public who may be touring the construction site.

In addition, companies with permanent INS are companies.  That most likely has a certified accountant. Which are responsible for payroll calculations, payroll taxes remittance, and INS policy remittance.  In addition to payroll reporting.

Stability

Of course, when Building a House in Costa Rica, an important attribute towards hiring a builder is his stability.  Let’s examine how your builder has become rooted.

Firstly, does he have a company corporation? This demonstrates that he is most likely established with Hacienda.

Secondly, does he have a bank account in the company name? Which demonstrates that most likely has competent accounting practices.  Thirdly a declaration from Hacienda.  Which demonstrates he is current with filings of federal taxes.

In addition to the above, some note-worthy attributes would be branding.  To explain does the builder have signage on his vehicles?  Perhaps a web presence to display projects and details of his services.

Including an email that has his domain name and not a Gmail or yahoo extension.  Another source of branding would be the social media presence in his company’s name.  In summary, these are areas in which you need to use your own common sense.

Most importantly is that you want a builder to construct your investment.  With assurances of his competence to complete your project successfully.

On another note, Hacienda is the Costa Rica tax department.  All business owners do file a tax form of earnings.  All building supply stores and manufacturing shops report to Hacienda reporting their sales and to who.  Therefore, Hacienda will have a record of material purchases, and manufacture (cabinets, windows, etc) invoices.

In conclusion and warranty

The objective is to verify the Costa Rica Home Builders ability to warrant his work when Building a House in Costa Rica.  In the event that an issue presents itself within a year.  With all fairness that when new building materials are installed.

Which they need to conform to their new environment.  Resulting in expansions and contractions.  Which may cause a tile to delaminate, or a door to warp.  Perhaps an electrical component will fail.

Nonetheless, we wish to conclude if your builder can support his work and return for a repair.  Can he afford to return to make a repair?  After you have the keys to your new home, your builder should present with:

  • Firstly, a walk-through deficiency list. Take possession of your new home and make sure the doors close correctly, all the lights work, and he has completed his end of the contract as agreed
  • Secondly, a one-year warranty. It may happen that a tile may delaminate, or a door warp.  Or some issue that should not have to happen and most likely could not have been foreseen.  Your builder with all good faith should take care of you with these issues.  All within reason of course.
  • Thirdly, 5-year structural warranty. This is CFIA mandatory warranty.  If he does not repair a structural issue, the CFIA could decline all his permit applications until your issue is warranted.

Building a House in Costa Rica: Documents you may wish to request

When hiring a builder, there will most likely be 2 documents.  There will be a contract and a pro forma breakdown of cost.  Keep in mind, that you are the boss.  Not him, he works for you.  Therefore, you have control over the rules.

Contracts:

  • Contracts:

    • Are usually made in favor of the person who is writing them. Therefore if you are writing the contract between you and your builder. Then you will include all the expectations that you demand from him. If the builder has a generic contract, you should also include all your expectations either way.

Payment schedules:

    • Preparing your payment schedules should be frequent, small, and balanced towards that stage of construction advancement. The amount should reflect the material and labor cost of the payment stage.  Making fewer stage payments in larger amounts could end up badly for you.  Make sure to understand and negotiate this phase of your contract before Building a House in Costa Rica.
    • Construction is not an exact science. There may be unforeseen circumstances present themselves throughout the project.  Your builder without changing the price may need to make this up on the next draw and ask you for a partial advance.  Understand his issue and don’t penalize him.  You don’t want your builder stressed.  Work with him as you both have the same objective.

  • At minimum your contract sections should include:

    • Corporation names and legal representatives of each side with physical address, email, and phone numbers
    • Property description, catastre number, exact location
    • Builders identification numbers: CFIA carne number, passport/cedula number, INS number, CCSS number
    • Details of responsibility: what is the key role of each side:
    • All warranties including manufacture warranties of air conditioners, windows, etc.
    • Attachment exhibits: CFIA approved drawings, pro forma, stage payment schedule.
    • The amount of the contract

  • You may include additional information towards:

    • With details of deadlines.  Furthermore, assurance of his government responsibility’s.  Perhaps penalty’s, and arbitration procedure. If your out of country and may include communication requirements.  These are good to have in writing but difficult to enforce.

  • Detailed pro forma of a material breakdown:

    • This breakdown will include material take off calculations of concrete, rebar, block and all core material.
    • Quantity and unit price of flooring, cabinets, granites, plumbing/lighting fixtures, etc with budget allowances.

Once you are satisfied with the documentation that the builder has given you. And you have supplied your builder with his required deposit. Your builder will begin to prepare the lot. Construct a material storage and quarters for the crew. He will install service entries of electricity, water and provisional for drainage and black waters. This may take approximately two weeks.

 

Third of Three Methods to: Building a House in Costa Rica

 

Be your own general contractor

  • If this is NOT your intent to be your own builder. You will still want to read this article as I say many wonderful things about my company.
  • This method is more favorable for building budgets under $100k- and most likely to succeed.
    • Building budgets under $100k are homes that won’t have complicated engineered systems, they won’t have layered wall systems for climate control nor mold or insect deterrents, these homes are generally kit homes and small and won’t require precision tools or sophisticated installations.
  • If your building budget is above 100k and you choose this method of building.  It is important to know that, about 85% of these builds are unsuccessful.  As well as 98% of these builds well exceed the original budget.  Therefore make sure you have contingency financing or a recovery plan before attempting this method.
  • If you are considering this method, please feel free to contact me for more information. It could save you an abundance of money and a world of headaches.
  • It is law that your responsible (usually architect) is required to make weekly visits to record advancement in the Batricula. Basically, he reports that the construction is following the construction drawings.  This is to your benefit.  Many times, the architect is paid off not to come, or to come only once a month.  This is a bad idea.  For reasons beaing that his visits is a form of policing, and will keep your crew on their toes.

By the way, this method would return you the most stress.  All the responsibility will be solely on you.  You must take responsibility for the results.  It is most likely you will not save money, nor time.  Therefore, you will be doing this for the sole purpose of self-achievement.

Recommended prerequisites

To begin, it would work to your advantage as to have 7 to 10 years’ experience in North America of the construction process.  For reasons being, that you will have a better understanding of construction practices.  Which includes as to when to order and commit to sub trades and manufactures.  In order to maintain the construction advancement.  For example, windows and cabinets will take several weeks to manufacture.  Therefore, you will need to commit several weeks in advance from when you need them.

In addition air conditioning requires several visits at different stages of the construction.  Firstly, rough in to be done on early stages of construction.  Secondly to return later for additional installations of duct work. Thirdly, a final visit at the end of construction to install units.  Payment schedules should be balanced to percentage of each stage. This is just a small example of coordinating administrative experience you would want to have.

In addition, it would be very beneficial for you to have a good command of the Spanish language.  It is important to be able to negotiate prices from suppliers.  As well as understanding product details for quality control.  Also, you will want to be able to make and recieve phone calls. Having an interpreter for this increases the risk of commissions being paid to him.  This is common in Costa Rica.  Which is not considered stealing and is received as an entitlement.  Meaning, perhaps your interpreter is not getting you the best product at the best deal.  Perhaps he is getting you a product from who is paying the better commission.

Preparing all your agreements

My wife is Tica and often when she is with me the sales man will take her aside and offer her a commission.  On the condition if she would help  close the deal (she says no of course, (I think)). When someone say “go there and tell them I sent you”.  This comment generally reflects a commission being paid.  Emphasizing that they want the supplier to know you are there because they made the recommendation.

To continue, now that you have made your agreements with suppliers, subtrades, and so forth.  You will need to employ a crew to manage the installations.  In Costa Rica it is common for work crews to live on site.  Therefore, they will construct a bodega where your materials and tools will be stored.  Including, sleeping quarters, cooking area and bathroom with shower.  Of course, there is electric and water supplied.  This bodega will be built before your home starts.  Allow 3 or 4 days for 4 men and a budget of approx. $3,000

Preparing your crew

Finally, it is time to find a crew that will construct the home.  This crew will consist of 8 to 12 men.  Which will most likely show 90% of your home’s quality.  For example, in your home country, when you hire a trim carpenter.  There are few that are at the top of their class, several are mediocre, and then there is those that always have dull blades.  Costa Rica tradesman are no exception.  You will search for the best albinals, carpenteros, electristas, peons, ayudantes, and oporadios.  These men based on there experience and dedication will result in your homes quality.  Remember the 2 categories of employees.

When I started my company, I went through about 10 men to find that 1 good one.  It took me 2 years to establish the crew I have today.  You want to find a man that fits in the second category that I explain in an article Hire a builder.  This man should get along with other workers and not be bossy or a ‘know it all’.  You don’t want this man to be a partier that shows up half tanked from the night before and belligerent.  There are many attributes to a good employee (or company) over and above knowing how to do the job.

Costa Rica has different form of contracting

Costa Rica is completely different when it comes to tradesman and precision tools.  Most tools are made from broken car springs and bamboo.  Commonly, they carry the cheapest tape measures and low-grade trowels.  Mainly due to affordability. However, I have structured my company to build homes to North American style.  Collectively I have crews trained in specific attributes.  Where as my block layers, only lay block.  When the finish one house they go to the next one and pools.  I have similar crews for stucco, drywall, tile setters, veneer rock, and roofer.

This takes them away from being a ‘Jack of all trades’ and turns them into professional trades man.  They can achieve their trade expedentially with superior results.  If there is an onsite issue, they can profile the problem as a professional.  Because, they know their product first hand

Your new construction crew will construct the complete house from digging the footings to laying block.  Including, putting on your roof, installing your tiles, paint the walls, and hang your light fixtures.  The same 8 to 12 men will complete the house entirely.  This is how 95% of homes are built-in Costa Rica.  For this is a system I never agreed with.  Jack of all trade’s construction cannot deliver quality in my opinion.  You don’t have to be an engineer to spot a poor constructed home.  To the contrary, it usually becomes obvious imediatly entering the home.

In conclusion

To have a successful result in building your house in Costa Rica.  With being your own general contractor, you would want to have the following pre-requisites:

  • 5 – 7 years’ experience in construction in your home country to know procedures
  • 2 years’ experience in Costa Rica business to know labor laws, and tico culture
  • Building budget under $100,000
  • Intermediate command of the Spanish language to negotiate best terms, and to administrate your project
  • Have a good understanding of electrical and plumbing – these are major areas in Costa Rica that are lacking
  • Have 4 to 8 months free time to manage and administrate your project. This is a full-time job
  • Contingency funding for over budget or contingency recovery plan
  • Have plenty of aspirin handy

I will close this article method with a very strong emphasis in advising not to take this method.  Most likely, you will not save money and you risk your project.  In the 10 years in Costa Rica, I have seen hundreds of abandoned foundations for the very same arrogance.  Hire a builder and let him take on the responsibility and headaches.  You can administer budgets and work flow schedules

Following our series of articles (in order) will empower you towards success when Building a House in Costa Rica:

  1. How to Hire a Builder
  2. Costa Rica Architect Firm 
  3. Designing A House In Costa Rica Attributes
  4. Home Designing Service Costa Rica
  5. Costa Rica Home Builders
  6. Methods Of Building In Costa Rica (this article)
  7. Costa Rica Custom Home
  8. Costa Rica General Contractor
  9. Interior Design In Costa Rica
  10. Finish Touch Furniture SRL
Costa Rica Home Builders

Costa Rica Home Builders | Build a House | Custom Homes

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Choosing a Costa Rica Home Builders Class

Designing a house in Costa Rica

Finding reputable Costa Rica home builders is paramount to the success of your project. Knowing what questions to ask and how to check the viability of the builder.

Above all to how to know their competence of construction methods.

A builder’s personal stability will ensure building stability. Even more, a General Contractors’ license is available in Costa Rica but is not mandatory.

 

Consequently, a licensed builder is more apt to provide you with quality as he will be compelled to government warrantees administered by the CFIA.

Costa Rica Home Builders

Depending on the type of home you’re building, there are different levels of construction value, which will determine the level of construction expertise you will require.

To explain, the more complicated your Costa Rica real estate homes for sale design. Then the more qualified your Costa Rica home builders should be.

Likewise to hire an over-qualified builder to build a ‘tico style’ home. Contrarily could be more expensive than what you really should be paying.

The following article will break down these construction values. Which will guide you to a process of builder selection.  In addition, the article Building A House in Costa Rica will help you hire a builder.  Once you have identified the class you require.

The categories for your understanding are:

  • Two-Faced Builder
  • Tico Style Home
  • North American Style Home
  • Smart Home Technologies
  • Vertical Builds Mountain Homes

You should note that no one has left school with the title ‘Builder’.  Whereas all builders began as a tradesman and advanced into the building.  As a result of their ability to facilitate the trades to complete the project. Included with years of experience.

Furthermore, the builder becomes familiar with the trade processes.  Which he can quickly recognize a fault with the material.  Or perhaps a poor installation is being performed.

Which he can rectify before it becomes a disaster and expensive to fix. Therefore, experienced Costa Rica home builders should be your first choice in all categories.

Another option not mentioned in this article:

It would also be note worthy to understand that a Architecture Firm and/or a General Contractor is a level above a builder.  Meaning an Architecture firms which have full staff and General Contractors have full time crews and equipment.  Both of these companies offer services and stability above a single bulder.  Which should be considered in your home designing and home building.

There are several ways of finding qualified Costa Rica home builders.  Firstly recommendations are always a good source.  However, you should know the person making the recommendation.

Often the one making a recommendation is a friend, family, agent, who is posing as a client of the builder.  I have seen blogs where it appears the builder is answering questions.  While in reality it is staged, scripted and it is all theatrics.  Therefore, qualify who is making the recommendation.  Hold reservations when reading dialogue on Facebook.

Two-Faced Builder:

Finding someone who claims to be a Costa Rica home builders.  However in reality their main business is not associated with building.

Perhaps they own a hotel or restaurant as a primary business.  This has higher risk factors that require a little more due diligence.

This type of builder does have stability and is rooted.  Although as a hotel owner and not the area of expertise you require.  Similarly, would you hire a dentist to fix your car?  If you are considering this ‘class’ of the builder.

You will want to ask:

  1. Is he actually a builder or a facilitator?
  2. Does he have a regular crew or does he take who is available at the moment?
  3. Does he have tools?
  4. Is he a legal entity with government responsibilities?
  5. Does he have insurance and report payroll?
  6. Does he have warranties on products and labor?

If any of your answers are ‘no’ to any of these questions.  Then you need to ask yourself what cost can reflect back on you.  Could it involve fines with the ministry of labor? Perhaps a lawsuit from someone who was hurt on the site?

Criminal problems back on you from Hacienda for payroll withholding taxes?  Could it break an established friendship between you and the restaurant owner?  Will he need a dentist after your done with him?  Read my article Building a House in Costa Rica for hiring advice.

Tico Style Homes:

Costa Rica home builders

This style of home is referring to a basic house structure.  The term “Tico Style” is in no way meant as a condescending adjective.

On the contrary, this is the most economical way of homeownership. Furthermore, Tico style homes have many natural attributes, which I mention in my post Designing Your Cool House (coming soon) to keep the house cool.

In addition, there are ‘Tico Style’ prefab home designs. Which are available at your local building supply store.  These houses are not labor-intensive and can be completed in 6 to 8 weeks. Also works great if you’re wanting to construct cabanas or rental properties.

These styles of homes don’t provide comfort, aesthetics, or curb appeal. Meaning they provide shelter, bathroom facilities, no cabinetry.  Commonly kitchens are usually concrete top with wood shelves and no doors.

As a result, these homes are very simple, very basic. Which don’t include insect or mold deterrents. Nor insulation values and no acoustic values.  Furthermore no ambient values and often generic and economical materials.  Including flooring, windows, plumbing and electrical fixtures, etc.

Tico Style House Attributes

Building a House

I have seen some of these homes finished off pretty nicely.  Which may include window moldings, rafter tails, and other finishing accents.  In addition, they generally have large eaves for shade and covered front porch areas.

Which provides shading on the house for natural cooling.  Furthermore, stucco finishes give pleasing colors.

Because these homes have great cross ventilation.  Together with an open attic area allowing breezes to pass through.  Your best option for cooling comfort is a fan.

These homes can be 50% concrete and 50% wood.  Or 100% concrete.  These homes can be secure, and safe.

Recommended Costa Rica Home Builders:

The recommended builder for this type of home is to simply hire a Maestro de Obras, which is a foreman of construction.  Of course, every construction worker in Costa Rica is familiar with tico-style housing.  When choosing a Maestro de Obras,  you will want to confirm he is a working Maestro de Obras. Unlike just a technical adviser as many consider themselves. Meaning he needs to be working with the crew with a tool in his hand.

Furthermore, Maestro de Obras will be knowledgeable in all aspects of the construction.  Therefore you should have a few test questions.  Particularly regarding electrical and plumbing. To explain, electrical and mechanical installations are consistent.  Whether or not tico-style home or mansion home.  Therefore, you want to make sure your mechanicals will function correctly.

Setting Up Administration

You will still need to administrate the purchase of materials, as well as the scheduling of deliveries.  In addition, you will want quality control over materials.  Also to make security provisions to guard against theft.  Furthermore, you will want to coordinate bi-weekly payroll.

Most banks have payroll services.  Moreover, this will keep you legal. Although Nicaraguans don’t have work visa’s you can still register their passports. For the reason that they will receive CCSS and INS coverage.  Most importantly to stay legal and don’t bypass this responsibility.

If your out of the country and cannot perform these administrative duties, alternatively you can sub this out to someone you trust.  Commonly architects often will be the technical administrator for materials and labor.  For the reasons that they are already visiting the site for weekly inspections.

North American Style Home:

Costa Rica Home Builders

This is a category that most people reading this article will fit into.  To clarify that North American-style homes will incorporate engineered systems.  Including additional materials to provide us with comfort, and ambiance.  Furthermore considerations for aesthetics, security, and insect and mold inhibitors.

Normally, it was recommended to hire a North American builder to construct these homes.  However, I have met tico builders with equal qualifications  Which present knowledge, and honesty towards successful project completion.  Unfortunately, the language barrier has been a deciding factor for many owners.  Although this is a shame as many great tico builders are capable.

Recommended Costa Rica Home Builders:

Costa Rica Home Builders

This builder should demonstrate stability, as well as he should own tools of construction and precision, together with the knowledge of the mechanics of products.

In addition to having experienced crew (prefer permanent crew).  Most importantly to have a General Contractors Carnet with CFIA, and be bi-lingual.

Finding a builder that holds all these characteristics can be difficult.  Although they do exist.  Which many of these qualified builders and general contractors.

The fact that likely they are exclusive builders to a development.  Therefore more difficult to find as these builders have little advertising and a weak web presence.

Prepare a list of questions to interview your builder.  For the reasons to recognize his knowledge and expertise.  In addition, expand your boundaries for a qualified builder.

As a matter of fact, General Contractors are credited with projects throughout the country. After all the objective is to hire a qualified administer to complete your project.  You may find the article  Method of Building A House in Costa Rica.

Where to begin

The ideal situation here is, to begin with, an Architecture Firm. To simplify a contract with them for a complete package.  To clarify this will prevent any miscommunication.  In the event, if you have not committed to a home design. While you are at the beginning stages to prepare and support your expectations.  So we invite you to read the series of articles in an orderly listed below.

If you do have your designs and you are looking for qualified builders, then I would refer you to hiring advice at Building a house in Costa Rica, and First Method of Building a House in Costa Rica, and Second Method of Building A House in Costa Rica.  In general, these articles should give you sufficient direction.  Furthermore the tools for interviewing and document control.

You are the boss of your project.  Moreover the builder works for you.  To emphasize that you are the facilitor with an objective.  Therefore, you are hiring his technical ability and management experience to facilitate your project.  Specifically under your supervision and approvals.

Facilitate responsibility

You may choose to have control over your material purchases.  Therefore you require to hire the builder strictly for labor costs.  In addition, you may have your own purchasing agent, who will scout out the best material purchasing prices.

Therefore, you only need to hire a qualified crew for installation.  Although this may be true this is very uncommon of course.  To clarify my point is that you may structure your build.  Perhaps to utilize your expertise and hire out the other phases.

Key points

  • How much experience this builder has in Costa Rica? How do I benefit from this?
  • What were these builders’ trade before becoming a builder? How do I benefit from this?
  • What warranties, guarantees, does he offer? How do I benefit from this?
  • Does he offer financing or attributes? How do I benefit from this?
  • Is the builder structured to save me money? How do I benefit from this?
  • What makes this builder unique from other builders? How do I benefit from this?
  • What is this builder’s price compared to other builders? How do I benefit from this?

Smart Home Technologies:

This is growing in popularity quickly.  Which does have a great presence in Costa Rica.  Uniquely this is a competitive field.  Whereas manufacturers such as Google and Apple are producing smart home technologies.  Which you can control your home’s functions by your phone device.

These technologies for your home could include;

Costa Rica Home Builders

  • Wireless light switches
  • Motion sensory
  • Infrared sensory
  • Automation receptacles
  • Security systems
  • Climate control systems
  • Intercom and other communications throughout the home

Receiving the communications from these systems through RF (radio frequency) or IF (infrared signal).  Most commonly through wifi.  Where a smartphone, tablet, or computer provides interface controlling.  Specifically towards controlling air conditioning, lighting, cameras.  Possibly electrical backup redundancies such as solar systems.

Smart home technologies provide you with the ability to turn on lights.  Including unlocking the door for the maid, or feed the cat.  Furthermore water the grass, and clean the pool.  Specifically performed remotely from locations anywhere in the world with internet connectivity.  In addition to starting the car to keep the battery charged.  This list continues to almost infinite.

Recommended Costa Rica Home Builders:

It would be beneficial if your builder has a background and knowledge in telecommunications.  For the reason that outfitting your home with smart technologies.  Specifically requires a working knowledge of telecommunications.

Which include the installations of wireless networking systems. Also, UPS backup systems, and low voltage manifold installations. Thereupon knowledge of communication wiring usually with cat-6.

As well as knowledge of wireless systems similar to mesh internet installations.  Additionally backup systems for data and security.  Perhaps solar system technology for off-grid calculations.

Choosing this builder is the same as choosing a North American Style Homebuilder. However, your test questions should revolve around technology as well as structure.  Equally important that provisions should be included in the design for future additions.

To clarify this technology advances with new gadgets constantly.  Therefore your builder should have some experience with importing products.  For reasons that many of your systems will most likely come from outside the country.

Builder and Designer liason

Not only your builder but your designer as well, including your electrical engineer.  Should have a working knowledge of smart home technologies.  In addition to standard home wiring designs smart home system designs differs tremendously.  Therefore, smart home technology designers and builders should be sourced.

If you’re deciding to go with a smart home design and build.  Then it is most likely you have a general idea of the systems you would be interested in.  This is truly a project for Method of building a house in Costa Rica, and Costa Rica General Contractors.

Vertical Builds, Mountain Homes:

Costa Rica Home Design

Often mountain real estate properties have steep grades.  Which include slopes from front to back or back to front or side to side.  Most likely your designer will be very creative.

In order to use the natural topography.  Additionally, they will have provisions for stormwater management.  Together with utilizing creative structural engineering of cantilevers, and anchoring systems.

Your designer will create lot access for a place to park a car.  Perhaps this may be the only area of ground manipulation.  Whereas the house design may ‘spill’ off the mountain.  Which incorporates engineering ingenuity.  From the results of weight dispatches, fasteners available, lightweight materials, and flexibility.  While collectively staying focused on focal points, privacy issues, sun travel, and all attributes towards home designing.

A builder’s responsibility to constructing a home.  Although he only needs to follow the blueprint specs.  Often there are on-site decisions to be made.  Whereas your builder should have a good understanding of engineer.  Especially when it comes to engineered systems, cantilever, and fasteners.

Recommended Costa Rica Home Builders:

Building a house in Costa Rica

In addition to your builder, it would be advisable to have a structural engineer.  Specifically registered as the responsible for weekly inspections.

Knowingly two heads are better than one.  Which designing the very ‘bones’ of the structure.  Together with the installation of complex engineered systems.  Most importantly, this discussion is in regards to safety.  Therefore, it is paramount to govern your project correctly upfront.

Although this may sound a bit shallow.  Notwithstanding my experience when I have built mountain homes.

Accordingly, I have had better success.  As well as better home advancement.  When I assign a crew of good physical condition.

In light of a typical workday where there are verticle climbs and descents. Together with carrying heavy articles. Therefore, having a physically fit crew will keep a moderate pace of advancement.

A common issue on mountain builds is where to store materials.  Often, we have had to move the living bodega several times as the home advances.  Your builder should be a good thinker with much foresight for project advancement, material delivery, material unloading, and storage.

Alternative to a single builder

Building a house in Costa Rica

For a better chance of success, it would be advisable to have a team of designers and builders.  For this reason, it will save you an abundance of money and headaches.  Also, you may read Costa Rica General Contractors and Costa Rica Architecture Firms.

Calculating the weight of the house design will help calculate the delivery costs.  As often materials need to be transferred to a smaller vehicle to manage the mountain road grades and corners.

Therefore, the owner should be open-minded to material choices. For example, a solid block concrete home will have much weight.  Which will require a heavy anchoring system.

As well as contribute to several thousands of dollars on the foundation cost.  Together with several thousands of dollars on material deliveries.

Custom Home Design Costa Rica

The photo I have here is a house design called ‘Casa Sorento’.  Specifically designed for mountain construction.  The design includes a solid concrete construction on the mountain surface.

Transitioning to a lightweight material of steel and glass.  Ideal for cantilever design which only requires lightweight anchoring.  At the same time will require fewer deliveries.

As well as lighter material therefore more material per delivery.  Notwithstanding a proficient advancement.  Equally both ways you save money with a superior result.  The result is a beautiful home with a low cost to build.  Contact us for more info

A builder of this type of home will require a working knowledge of:

  • Masonry construction
  • Red steel construction (Costa Rica calls it black steel).
  • Engineered tensioner sway bars
  • Cantilever engineering
  • Tempered glass theory and installation
  • Quite possible pressure reduction valves

These types of builds can be complexed and technical.  Therefore you will want a builder who came from the top of his class.  Consequently, this may cost a few dollars extra.  Make your decision wisely.

Feel free to contact me if you wish for any further information on this type of build.  As well as furnishings

Following our series of building articles (in order) will empower you towards the success of the completion of your project:

  1. How to Hire a Builder
  2. Costa Rica Architect Firm 
  3. Designing A House In Costa Rica Attributes
  4. Home Designing Service Costa Rica
  5. Costa Rica Home Builders  (this article)
  6. Methods Of Building In Costa Rica
  7. Costa Rica Custom Home
  8. Costa Rica General Contractor
  9. Interior Design In Costa Rica
  10. Finish Touch Furniture SRL