Have you been looking for the perfect Costa Rica home but haven't been able to locate it? Then building a home may be the right real estate option for you. Custom construction in Costa Rica can seem like a daunting task, but if you do your due diligence, it can actually be an exciting and rewarding experience.
Re/Max Ocean Surf and Sun offers a wide range of real estate lots at the beach, on golf courses, nestled in the hills, or with ocean views. Building your home in Costa Rica means that you can choose the lot you want, where you want it, and then create a home specifically suited to your tastes. The final product will be a property that is truly unique to you.
Choosing a Builder
As with buying Costa Rica real estate, care is needed when selecting the professional you're going to work with. An experienced real estate agent can help you to buy land that is titled, suitable for building, and in a safe area. Similarly, a reputable and experienced Costa Rica builder can be an invaluable resource and streamline the construction process.
Before making your decision about which Costa Rica construction company to use, take some time to do your research:
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Ask how many homes the company has built in the area where you plan to build your home. This is very important since building costs vary throughout the country, mostly due to shipping and transportation costs. Generally, a home at the coast will cost more to construct per square foot than will a home in the Central Valley, since materials may need to be shipped from San Jose and crews may need to be housed onsite.
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Find out the builder's credentials. Does he and/or his company have professional training or certification?
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Don't forget to ask about peripheral costs such as pools, fountains, terraces, exterior walls, gates, and landscaping.
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If a builder's quote is significantly lower per square foot than his competitors, proceed with caution. Reputable builders will give you the straight story when it comes to price. Quoting low to get the job, then hitting the client up for more funds later is not uncommon, so remember the old adage: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
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Ask to see the company's portfolio. If possible, tour homes that the builder has constructed and speak with the owners. Recommendations from happy home owners are the best credentials a builder can provide.
Many real estate clients have navigated the home building process and ended up with properties that they absolutely love. The secret is to do your homework. By choosing a reputable Costa Rica construction company and builder, you can successfully create your dream home here in paradise.