Locating that perfect new home or vacation getaway can be a daunting task. This becomes ever more true when that perfect place is very far from what you currently know as home. For this reason we sought the advice of expert realtor, and HLRN member Daveed Hollander on Costa Rica real estate.
When clients come to you with an idea of what they want, how do you help them refine their criteria prior to finding a match?
With all of my clients we go through a processes defining what their needs are before they purchase. Basically, before I suggest anything to help our customers I would ask for more information so that I can recommend the best possible properties in the most suitable areas for them. With over 10 offices throughout the country of Costa Rica we can assist almost everywhere.
- Have you been to Costa Rica before?
- Can you please give me a better idea of what type of home or property you are interested in?
- Do you have children that will be with you?
- What hobbies and or interests are important to you?
- Are there any unusual medical requirements or disabilities that we should take into consideration?
- Is this a property that you will live in full-time or only part-time?
- Do you know which specific geographical areas that you are interested in? (Remember that Costa Rica has a Pacific as well as a Caribbean coast.)
- If you found your ideal property, how much have you set aside to buy the property?
- Have you already hired a Costa Rica attorney to help you with any legal, residency, or real estate matters?
What is the most important thing you look for when purchasing a home for yourself?
In Costa Rica, it is truly important to review the quality of the construction, whom the builders was, where he or she is from, what year the house was built , what kind of quality materials where available at that time, and whom you neighbors are.
If you had to choose one piece of advice for first-time home buyers, what would it be?
In Costa Rica it is truly important to review the quality of your realtor and his or her qualifications in the market place. Being that Costa Rica is pre-dominantly an open market and not exclusive market place so most realtors only work for the sellers whom pay the best commission. All of our agents in our offices are trained differently and go through the voluntary licensing system in Costa Rica call the CCBR that is recognized by NAR.
If you were not selling real estate, where would you be today?
Somewhere in the world as a chef or back at law school in California
What would you say is your most proud accomplishment as a real estate agent so far?
In Costa Rica my career has been amazing in that I have been able to accomplish opening and working with 10 offices throughout the country. The individuals that own, run, and operate them are truly amazing and I am honored to be a member of this team. Through these relationships I was honored to have one realtor of the year 4 years, top office in country 5 years, Top sales volume 2 years, and Best Hotel/Luxury specialists in Costa Rica.
What property do you currently have listed that you wish more people would see?
Casa Big Sur is a newly built tropical Tommy Bahama style estate, a one of a kind design that elegantly blends Caribbean influences with modern architecture. Exposed beams, high rise ceilings, quality timber finishes, freshly decorated interiors The property has a total land size of 8112.01 sqm/ 2 acres and a total living space of 628 sqm/6800 sqft. and air conditioning throughout.
On the main floor the principal entrance to the property leads you into the main open living area including the dining room, living room and kitchen. A large balcony with ocean view, a key feature of the main floor, can be accessed from the main living area.
The kitchen design is modern, spacious and practical with granite worktop, solid wood and chrome finishes as well as cook top island and breakfast bar. A pantry and laundry room is positioned in close proximity to the kitchen.
A well designed layout ensures that all bedrooms benefit from ocean views. On the main floor, the master bedrooms feature solid wood flooring, high –rise ceilings and exposed beams with their own private balconies and generously sized en-suites. A Walk-in shower and hot tub are installed in both en-suites have high quality ceramic finishes.
On the lower level floor and open plan living area with wet bar offers fantastic views of the infinity swimming pool and pacific ocean. A bathroom and storage room can be found just off this living area. An additional bedroom on the lower level floor can potentially be used as a family movie room considering its location next to the open games room and gym area.
The Casa la Big Sur is surrounded by lush landscaping and tropical greenery has a generously sized infinity pool and heated spa situated in front of an open plan living area with wet bar. Additionally an open plan games room and gym with ocean views are positioned in this outdoor area. An expansive patio area with pool deck, outdoor shower and bathroom facilities complete this property’s beautiful yet functional design. A free standing three vehicle garage and workshop are located at the main entrance to the property. This home is located in the town of Escaleras, on the coastal paradise of Dominical looking out onto the Southern Pacific. With its rich biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes and pristine beaches Dominical is a beautifully preserved area of Costa Rica that boasts some of the best coastlines in the world and continues to retain its natural appeal and authenticity.
To Learn More: Visit Daveed Hollander's HLRN Member Profile
