Expats have to pay attention to local taxes

By: Garland M. Baker B.

Exclusive to A.M. Costa Rica

Editor's Note: While this article was accurate at the time of publication, some information may now be outdated. We are currently preparing a comprehensive update. Sign up for our Alerts to be notified as soon as the revised content is live!

Today is the end of fiscal year 2012-2013. This is important for Costa Ricans and expats alike doing business in this country.  It is also noteworthy for individuals and retired people who are not in the Costa Rica tax system.  There are more tax collectors beating the streets, making phone calls and performing audits like no time in Costa Rican history.  Fines have increased dramatically, too, making it expensive not to follow the rules.

Real estate market shows signs of improvement

By: Garland M. Baker B.

Exclusive to A.M. Costa Rica

Editor's Note: While this article was accurate at the time of publication, some information may now be outdated. We are currently preparing a comprehensive update. Sign up for our Alerts to be notified as soon as the revised content is live!

Up and down the coast of Guanacaste, real estate circles are buzzing with talk that properties are selling again and that there are buyers in the market.  

Linda Gray, vice president of Coldwell Banker Costa Rica, which includes 10 franchises, said, “Real estate sales and activity since the start of the New Year 2013 has increased over 2012.” A representative of Century 21 Beach Area Properties in Tambor echoed this view: “Business is better this year than last.” He also said Ticos are in the market buying second homes.

Hiring uncovered workers is asking for a nightmare

By: Garland M. Baker B.

Exclusive to A.M. Costa Rica

Editor's Note: While this article was accurate at the time of publication, some information may now be outdated. We are currently preparing a comprehensive update. Sign up for our Alerts to be notified as soon as the revised content is live!

There is a popular adage in Costa Rica, Pide perdón, no permiso.  Doing this can get an expat snagged into a big, expensive problem. 

The saying means “ask forgiveness, not permission.” It is a strategy used by Ticos and expats alike to get things done without going through the normal red tape.   The scheme is also used to avoid traffic fines, building permits, payments, and the list is long.