REAL AGENT ESTATE SEARCH


Saturday, April 18, 2009

Punta Cana Real Estate

Punta Cana Real Estate

by Mary Ponce


Owning a Punta Cana Real Estate property is not just a dream anymore. On these days Punta Cana offers properties and real estate at affordable prices. Punta Cana is a fast growing tourist and investment area. You can have any kind of property you wish: condos, apartments, villas or land. In fact, all kind of real estate is for sale in Punta Cana. real estate agent

Punta Cana is among the fastest growing tourist destinations in the entire Caribbean. Because of its accelerated growth, it is hard to believe that 35 years ago all one could find there was a tiny adventurer's hotel and one narrow road. With roughly 40 hotels, 30,000 rooms, 5 operating golf courses, Punta Cana Realty still has the potential for astounding development. Acquiring property in Punta Cana is straightforward, but still, foreigners purchasing property anywhere in the world outside their native countries need to have extra caution. The best thing to do is obtain help from a real estate attorney to get through the process. real estate agent

Before the process of acquiring your own space, you should have in mind the prices. Apartments in Punta Cana can cost anywhere from $ 50,000 to $225,000(USD) depending upon the location and type of apartment. These are decent prices if you think about the spectacular ocean views and private beaches that you will be able to enjoy. real estate agent

A particular fact on Punta Cana Real Estate is that many renowned celebrities like Oscar de La Renta, Julio Iglesias and Shakira have residences on this region. Just like for celebrities there is luxury, comfort and amazing views on Punta Cana for everyone and all budgets.

Many years ago entrepreneurs with extraordinary business mentality purchased large beach properties at low prices and today most of the beachfront property of Punta Cana is owned and occupied by big resort hotels. You can purchase for future investments, to live there or just to have your own vacation spot. real estate agent

At this time getting involved in Punta Cana Real Estate seems like a smart decision. real estate agent

Real Estate City Profiles - Nashville, Tennessee

Real Estate City Profiles - Nashville, Tennessee

by Brandon Cornett


Nashville, Tennessee is a great place to work and live. It's also a great place to buy a home, and it comes up on a lot of those "best places to live" lists. real estate agent

For example, in 2006 Kiplinger.com created a list of "50 Smart Places to Live." They used several criteria to create a list of cities there were a good real estate investment. Nashville made the top of the list, ranked #1 by the editors. real estate agent

Why Nashville, Tennessee Real Estate?

So what makes Nashville a great place to buy a home? Well, lots of things actually. So in this city profile, we will take a closer look at just what makes Nashville tick -- and what makes it such a smart real estate investment. real estate agent

Lifestyle & Entertainment in Nashville

When you mention the city name of "Nashville," most people immediately think of country music. Obviously, there's plenty of it to be found in Nashville. But the city also enjoys a wide range of musical influences and venues. In fact, if you go downtown on any given Saturday night, you can probably sample some live country music, jazz, rock or R&B, all within a short walk of one another. real estate agent

The Parks Department of Nashville offers a variety of facilities and programs for the city's residents to enjoy. The Department manages more than 100 individual properties (parks, nature centers, swimming pools, trails, etc.) as well as seven municipal golf courses. Whether you're interested in joining a local sports league, or you just want a nice place to jog or walk the dog, The Metro Parks and Recreation Department has something for you. real estate agent

Schools & Education

You can't talk about real estate in a particular city without talking about the city's schools. This is obviously an important topic for parents with school-aged children. But it's also important from a real estate investment standpoint, as the quality of schools will play a major role in property values. Fortunately, the educational scene in Nashville is both strong and diverse. real estate agent

Public schools in Nashville are operated under the purview of the Metropolitan Nashville Board of Education. This school system manages a total of 136 schools -- 74 elementary, 35 middle, 16 high schools, 4 alternative learning centers, 4 special education, and 3 charter schools. real estate agent

At the collegiate level, there are quite a few educational institutions in and around Nashville, Tennessee. In fact, the city is sometimes called the "Athens of the South" because of the high number of colleges and universities in the area. These include Vanderbilt University, Tennessee State University, and variety of other colleges and training institutions. real estate agent

Employment & Economy

Buying real estate in a city without evaluating the economy is like driving while blindfolded. So let's take a look at the economy and employment situation in Nashville, Tennessee. real estate agent

The music industry employs a lot of people in Nashville. Most of the major music labels such as Sony, Universal and Warner have offices in Nashville. Many smaller labels have also set up shop in the music-driven city. So music recording and production plays a big role in Nashville's economy. real estate agent

While music is the best-known aspect of Nashville's economy, healthcare is actually the city's largest industry segment. More than 200 healthcare companies are located within the Nashville metropolitan area. According to a 2006 issue of The Tennessean, the healthcare industry has contributes more than 90,000 jobs for Nashville residents, a much larger contribution than any other single industry sector. real estate agent

As a major city of the south, Nashville also enjoys many other types of industries as well, ranging from finance to publishing (and many things in between). real estate agent

Should You Buy Real Estate in the Nashville Area?

Should you buy a home in Nashville, Tennessee? In reality, this is a question that only you, as the homebuyer, can answer for yourself. All cities have certain pros and cons with regard to real estate values, quality of life, etc. This applies equally to Nashville. Hopefully, however, this guide to Nashville will help you move closer to answering that question! real estate agent

How To Accumulate Cash To Invest In Real Estate

How To Accumulate Cash To Invest In Real Estate

by Jack Sternberg


Plenty of fancy words have been written about real estate investment strategies. But I want to cut to the chase in this article. No matter how fancy the language is, investment strategies boil down to two objectives: Buying real estate to accumulate cash. Buying real estate to build equity and wealth. real estate agent

Which strategy to choose depends entirely on you "your needs, your personality, and so forth. Frankly, either choice is fine as long as you choose one early in your career, commit to it over the long term and do everything you legally can to make it successful. real estate agent

In this article, I'll look at the cash accumulation strategies and the pros and cons of each. I'll treat the build equity and wealth strategy in another article. The Cash Accumulation Strategy Let's assume you're relatively new to the real estate market and need methods for pursuing a cash accumulation strategy. real estate agent

Below are several methods you can try: Bird dogging. In simple terms, you find good properties for investors and charge them a finder's fee for doing so. This is strictly a cash strategy. real estate agent

Advantages: It doesn't require any cash on your part or previous knowledge. It's also the fastest way to earn cash. In addition, it's a great way to learn the ropesof the local real estate market. real estate agent

Disadvantages: The money you earn per transaction is the least in the market. It also takes considerable time and effort to locate suitable properties. Flipping. Flipping is the art of buying property, waiting for the right moment, and then selling it for a quick profit. In basic terms, you're controlling the property with a binding purchase contract. This strategy is most effective in areas where the demand for housing is so high that there's a limited supply, causing prices to rapidly rise. real estate agent

Advantages: With this method, you'll get negotiation leverage and good profit potential. Also, it can be a good life if you enjoy an entrepreneurial life style and a lot of freedom. real estate agent

Disadvantages: Volume can be low, depending on market conditions so your income can fluctuate. Although flipping is entirely legal, it received bad press due to con artists making a quick buck by duping customers. So, you may need a thick skin in terms of other people's opinions of you. Another disadvantage occurs when too many speculators get into the market. When that happens, prices drop quickly, and you end up stuck with the property and no immediate profit. Another possible downside is that interest rates can rise, thus dampening the demand for housing. A final disadvantage is hidden property problems. If you don't pursue careful due diligence, you can end up with expensive repair costs that eat up your profits or even cause a loss. Buy and sell as-is. This method is simple: buy a property, leave it as-is, and then put it back on the market but at a higher price. real estate agent

Advantage: When done right, you'll find that the profit margin is even higher than with the flipping method. real estate agent

Disadvantages: This method takes time and, due to that fact, volume may be low. Buy, improve, sell. With this method, you purchase a property, make cost-effective improvements, and then sell it at a higher price. real estate agent

Advantage: Margins are even better with this rehabbingmethod than with the previous methods. real estate agent

Disadvantages: With this method, you have a much bigger investment time and money than the previous methods. real estate agent

Selling Montreal Real Estate: 3 Easy Tips for Home Staging

Selling Montreal Real Estate: 3 Easy Tips for Home Staging

by Eric Giguere


Before you put your home on the Montreal real estate market, it's important to make sure that it shows at its best. Home staging is a great way to enhance the look of your home and gives it a better chance of selling quickly and for the price you want.

Home staging in the Montreal real estate market is a growing trend. Home stating has one goal in mind and that is to make sure the house looks like showroom quality. Home staging has statistically sold homes faster and for more money, so why not do a little staging of your own.

The point of home staging is to give the home a neutral look that will appeal to the most buyers. Before you hire a professional home stager, you may want to look at what you can do yourself to increase the value of you home.

The 3 Ds of Home Staging

1. De-clutter: Over the years of living in the same house, everyone has the tendency to collect material things which are usually end up in the basement or the garage or the attic. Clutter is deadly to selling a house and can seriously reduce the selling price. Take a quick inventory of your rooms and evaluate what you could remove to make more room. When showing the house ensure that nothing is on the floors, especially clothes, and that the kitchen counters are free of most things except for accent items. You can refer to a "Stager" specialist for how to and professional advice.

2. De-personalize: Your personal touches make a home out of your house, but they may also scare some buyers off. Remove anything that is of personal, religious or sexual nature. If you like family photos and have them pinned up on the walls, take them down and replace them with neutral artworks. If you value religion and have symbols and artifacts around the house remove those during the visits as the potential buyers may not be of the same faith. If you have artwork that is of a more adult nature, remove them also because it may offend some potential buyers. The benefits will greatly outweigh the cost.

3. Deep Clean: It's spring cleaning time. A deep clean is the best way to really make your house stand out. It's also one of the oldest trick in the sales book. The first thing used cars salesmen do when they get a new used car on the lot is to deep clean it and make it shine. Clean and dust everything that you don't normally clean. Windows inside and out, doors, windows and door tracts, light fixtures, top of cabinetry, behind and under couches, furniture and appliances, walls and ceilings, and anywhere else you don't clean on a regular basis.

Before every showing: DUST and WINDEX

If you are selling a home in Montreal, you want to make sure that it is in the best condition possible to get the most profit possible. You should do this even if you choose to list with an agent since a good agent would tell you to do the same. Actually, if you choose to invite agents into your home, you should do these simple tips before they come visit. That way they will get a good first impression about your house and make the experience that much more pleasant.

What To Include In A Real Estate Purchase Agreement

What To Include In A Real Estate Purchase Agreement

by Gloria


A real estate purchase agreement is a vital written document required in the purchase and/or sale of a property. It is also referred to as a real estate contract involving two parties" the buyer and the seller. In the U.S., these agreements are required by law to be in writing to be considered legally binding. real estate agent
The document contains several important details such as the legal description of the property including the address, the purchase price, earnest money or deposit, inspections done, information on buyer financing and the timeframe for the buyer to obtain financing, closing date and time as well as the appliances and fixtures included and excluded in the sale of the property concerned. real estate agent

Parties involved" A real estate purchase agreement must identify the names of the seller and buyer who are also called principals. Only persons in a stable mental condition can enter into a contract. real estate agent

Property information" A legal description of the property must be stipulated in the contract including the specific address. real estate agent

Purchase price" This refers to the amount of the propertyĆ¢€™s selling price or an estimated value in the event an appraisal is still forthcoming. real estate agent

Signatures" The seller and the buyer should affix their signature on the contract to make the document enforceable. real estate agent

Contingencies" Most purchase agreements include contingencies of various kinds to protect the parties involved. real estate agent

a. Mortgage" This is one of the most common contingency which normally requires the buyer to secure a loan within a specific time after the contract signing. b. Inspection" Most buyers want to make sure that the property they are purchasing is free from material defects this is the reason why they require a satisfactory inspection. c. Appraisal" It is to the advantage of the buyer if the seller provides an appraisal report on the property during negotiation. However, the buyer also has a right to ask for his or her own appraisal to make sure that what he or she is buying is within a fair market value and not overpriced. d. Another sale" This means that the purchase or sale of a property is contingent on the sale of another real estate property. It is a reality that some buyers negotiate on purchasing a new home while their own property is still in the selling stage as well. It is only when their home is successfully sold that they can finance the purchase of a new property. e. 72-hour timeframe" This is usually a contingency provided by the seller in which he or she accepts a contract on condition that the potential buyer looks for a buyer or renter of their own property to purchase the new home. The seller here gives a 72-hour notice to buyer to scrap their contingency and continues to hold the right to sell the property. If the buyer can prove that he or she can purchase the property, the contingency will be removed. If not, the buyer will release the seller from the contract and allow him or her to accommodate a new contract. real estate agent

Closing" This is the date and time of closing when ownership of the property is transferred from the seller to the buyer. A different date may be stated for physical possession of the property. The closing also specifies which party will shoulder the closing costs. real estate agent

Fixtures" This refers to the appliances, furnitures and fixtures that the seller wants to include or exclude in the sale of the property. real estate agent

These forms can be purchased and downloaded over the internet. It is always recommended that you have an attorney look over any important document before signing. real estate agent

Top Ten Thing Real Estate Agents Do Before Selling Their Own Home

Top Ten Thing Real Estate Agents Do Before Selling Their Own Home

by Bruce Swedal


When it comes to getting top dollar for their homes Real Estate Agents know how to get it done. After all it is what they do for a living. The only thing that typically keeps a typical home seller from achieving the same results is the reluctance on their part to invest in the sale of their home.
Since Realtors package, market and sell homes for a living and they know what home buyers want. Here is a list of the top ten items that real estate agents do when preparing their own home for sale.

Carpets are clean and in good condition. Otherwise, get rid of them. All clutter is removed. Everything is thoroughly cleaned. Pet odors are eliminated! Broken items are fixed. All clutter is removed from the front yard. Curtains are always opened, windows shades always up and lights always on. Walls are clean and there are no smudge marks. The closets are reorganized so they appear larger. The front lawn and shrubs are manicured. Excess furniture is removed and either put in the basement or into storage.

When it comes to the exterior of the home you should know that curb appeal scores big points. The impression from the curb is the first impression that a potential home buyer forms and sets the stage for the rest of the showing. If they get a poor impression first impression prior to even getting out of the car you may have already lost that buyer and never have an opportunity to get them back.

Beautify the exterior with paint, landscaping and any repairs needed to give it a crisp and uncluttered appearance. Buyers will want to purchase a home that they feel they can invite their friends and family to and be proud of what they have. You want the buyers to feel the pride you have in your home through the appearance.

When it comes to the interior of the home there are a couple key elements to keep in mind. Buyers like space and cleanliness. They do not want to feel that they will quickly outgrow the home so make sure that you clean out any unnecessary furniture to create more space. Also look at the cabinets and closets and clean out those spaces to create the feeling of having plenty of room.

Cleanliness may sound like an easy topic but people have different concepts of what is clean. Go overboard on cleaning and presenting an uncluttered appearance. Think of it in terms of your home can never be too clean when a buyer comes through. Buyers what to see show homes when it comes to cleanliness so take it to the extreme.

A key point to remember is that you should never do more than is necessary to sell your home.

Often sellers think that the more they fix-up, the higher the price they will get. When you go beyond the necessary fix-ups, you get to the point where you are wasting your money. Do all the necessary fix-ups prior to selling, but never do what is un-necessary.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

The Credit Card Application

The Credit Card Application

by Garth Brady


Obtaining a credit card in the United States is not very complicated; however, there are certain things one should take into account when filling out an application. The more thorough you are in filling out a credit card application the more information the bank will have. This means the bank may be able to offer a lower interest rate or more benefits.

Many banks send mail to your home or office with pre-approved credit card offers. Although the offers may sound good, they are only a marketing ploy for saying "We've noticed you, but you need to pass further evaluation". That's why they include an envelope with a proper credit card application.

Honesty

The first thing to remember is to be completely honest. Fill out the credit card application with factual information regarding your financial situation, your marital status and even something as simple as your true address. Banks check all of this information and will be suspicious if they find that something is not right

Secondly, do not forget anything. If you are buying or leasing a car, mention it in the application. If you are making your monthly payments in a timely manner, the bank will see that you are someone who can be trusted. The same thing applies if you have a mortgage for your home.

Accuracy

Double-check all of the spellings and numbers you enter in your credit card application. Although it may not be considered as fraudulent if you make a mistake, it can significantly delay the processing time.

Online or Offline?

The postal service may be too slow for some people. If you need your new card urgently, check out websites of different banks and find out what they can offer. Remember that if you don't have a credit history, you will have to pay bigger rates until you are recognized as someone who can be trusted.

When you have found a financial institution to accommodate you, fill the online credit card application with the same accuracy mentioned above and send it. Sooner than you expect, the bank will contact you with the news. There is no need to be afraid of a credit card application as banks are for-profit organizations and it's logical that they need to pro

Quick Compare of Different Credit Card Brands

Quick Compare of Different Credit Card Brands

by Smith James


When it comes to financial matters, we are very cautious before making any kind of choices. And similarly we appreciate those who are cautious about our money and how can we get maximum benefits. Therefore one choice that really makes each of us ponder and research deep is the choice of credit card. Before we sign any kind of deal, we like to make sure that this is the best plan for people with our financial background, our monthly income and our spending habits.

There are a plethora of brands in credit cards available in the market today. And you can get the sales representative chasing you eagerly at one hint of your being a potential customer. But would they ever tell you the liabilities associated with their plans? Would they guide you towards the best deal if they do not have one for you? Certainly not. They will offer you the best they have and try to pursue you to opt for it.

From among Barclaycard, Virgin Money, MBNA Europe, Lloyds TSB, Tesco, Capital One, Halifax and many more brands of credit cards, you have to know which one has the deal that suits you the best. You have to read between the lines in order to guess the 'catch'. This is very important for you because at the end of the day, it's your money and you have to manage it well.

But then there is some relief now and you don't have to bring out the magnifying glass to search the best credit card for yourself. Now you can do it online. There are some good compare web sites that would lay out the pros and cons of all the available credit card brands in front of you. Some of them put it in an easy layout so that you are able to compare various brands vis-a-vis and pick up the one that seems apt.

Credit Card Processing: Can High Risk Businesses Get A Merchant Account?

Credit Card Processing: Can High Risk Businesses Get A Merchant Account?

by Scott Burke


Is your business considered high risk? And can you still get a merchant account?

In credit card processing, there are many different reasons why a business may be considered high risk.

* First, it may be the actual business industry that has been tagged "high risk", such as travel, multi-level marketing (MLM), e-commerce, aggregators or collection agencies.
* Second, the reason may simply be the business volume that places a business in the high risk category.
* And third, it may be a reflection of the business or the business owner's credit history.

The question still arises: Can High Risk Merchants Obtain a Merchant Account?

The answer is YES. But you have to know where to go for the expert advice and guidance needed so you and your business are safe from excessive expenses often associated with high risk merchant accounts.

Working with an expert in high risk merchant accounts is critical to the success of obtaining the best merchant account solution for your business.

5 Points to Consider When Selecting the Best Merchant Account for Your High Risk Business:

* Your application needs to be handled by a high risk professional expert
* Your high risk merchant account processor should have experience with merchants in your business industry
* The high risk merchant account processor needs to have access to numerous credit sources - including more liberal banks and offshore options
* If your business does have to be taken offshore, your high risk experts need to work on getting the lowest rate available
* All rates should be disclosed prior to contract with the high risk credit card processing company

3 Insider Tips To Ensure Approval for a High Risk Business Merchant Account:

* Do you have a poor credit rating? Be honest about disclosing any past financial challenges. Acknowledging previous liens, bankruptcies, judgments, etc. will only improve your credibility and alleviate one more barrier.
* Be open to offshore options as sometimes they can offer your business the best merchant account solution.
* Shop around for a credit card processor that has expert knowledge in high risk merchant account approval - and don't be afraid to ask questions. The more you educate yourself in the process, the more you will recognize a good high risk merchant account processor giving you intelligent, experienced answers to your questions.

Operating a high-risk business does not exclude you from being able to process credit cards. Like any business, you want to provide your customers with as many non-cash payment options as possible. It is statistically proven that accepting credit cards help generate revenues and stimulate impulse purchases.

Owning a high risk business doesn't mean you won't be able to open a merchant account. It does mean, however, that you may have to do a little more in setting one up that is right for your business. Do your "due diligence", shop around and ask questions to find a credit card processing company that specializes in high risk and offshore merchant accounts and will offer their expertise to businesses who fall into the high risk category.

Credit Cards Can Help Prevent Your Financial Doomsday

Credit Cards Can Help Prevent Your Financial Doomsday!

by Deidre Shirley


Have you been scared out of your minds lately about the economy? People getting laid off, the possibility of tax increases, and no rock bottom in site? Well, you are not the only one. People are getting antsy talking about another Great Depression. Here's how you can help avoid any type of financial depression in your life:

First, apply for fixed low rate credit cards, preferably 4% or lower.

Second, use the money from the credit cards to open up a high-yield investment. No, were not talking about the stock market or other possible-loss scenarios. We're talking about government issued savings bonds or high-yield bank time CDs. The rates vary based on the amount you put in, but can be as high as 6.5%.

So let's say you invest $1,000 into a 5% savings bond for a year. You make $50, before the money is compounded. If the money is compounded daily, your yield would be higher.

If you got the money from a 0% interest rate card, your profit is $50. Now as long as the interest rate of the card is less than that of the account, your making dough.

Watch out for annual card fees, these will eat your profits. If a card has a yearly fee, call and ask if it can be averted. They will work with you. Its better than working against you.

Last, before hurrying and paying your credit card back, call and ask for an extension on the low interest rate. If they'll give it to you, you just made your self more time. And time is money in the world of interest.

Why Do I Need a Business Credit Card?

Why Do I Need a Business Credit Card?

by Phelicia Boone


Are you a small business owner? Are you currently using your personal credit card to finance your business purchases? Stop now! You should consider the positive reasons for using a separate credit card...a business credit card!

Business credit cards offer special incentives:

Although business credit cards generally offer interest rates that are higher than personal credit cards, you can still find value incentives from select credit companies which are directly comparable to personal credit cards, if you qualify. Not necessarily mutually inclusive, these incentives include cash back or travel rewards; savings on travel such as car, hotel, flight and other products; credit limits up to $50,000; flexible payment options; introductory rates as low as 0% APR; limited-time balance transfer rates as low as 0% APR; and even low interest rates that are comparable to personal "prime +" rates.

Before choosing a business credit card, do your homework. Read the fine print about fees, late payments and circumstances that can cause the interest rate to increase. Compare features that will benefit your company and thus become an overarching savings vehicle.

Business credit cards can be used to keep your business and personal finances separated:

When collecting and retaining information for tax and bookkeeping purposes, a business credit account will provide you with a monthly itemized list of goods and services, specifically purchased for your business. This eliminates the possibility of commingling personal and business finances and makes your audit trail much clearer. At the end of the year, many business credit accounts also provide a yearly summary of purchases. This is yet another avenue to help reconcile your bookkeeping. But more importantly, companies that may loan you credit in the future base their decision to do business with you based on your business credit history. So, there lies an incentive to start building your business credit now.

Business credit - How do I quality? What's my liability?

Oddly enough, the criteria for being approved for a business credit card can be based on your personal credit history, your personal income and possibly your personal assets, especially if you are a sole proprietor. So why couldn't you just have the lower personal rate of interest to begin with? Business credit card spending limits are generally much higher which increases the creditor's risk. Therefore, the risk warrants the desire for a higher return by the creditor.

If your business can stand on its own merit, meaning your financials are in order and you have a profit generating business, you may be able to open credit in the company's name without attaching personal liability or pledging personal property. Specifically, if your business is formed as a Corporation or a Limited Liability Company (LLC), you essentially (within the law) protect your personal assets from business creditors and hence from seizure or liens. With other company formations such as sole proprietorships and partnerships you are personally responsible for business debt incurred.

Favorable Tip: Like any other credit, your business credit should be monitored. Be aware of fraudulent charges and damaged goods. Know your rights and make sure you are protected in the creditor's terms and conditions.

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Costa Rica Real Estate: An Eco-Friendly Retreat

Costa Rica Real Estate: An Eco-Friendly Retreat!

by Stacey Crevoiserat


Costa Rica is a simply beautiful place to visit, but imagine living there!! Your dream vacation could be your everyday life! Costa Rica real estate is a booming market at the moment and attracting a great deal of attention. If you're looking to buy a second home, move permanently, or retire somewhere tropical, Costa Rica is the place for you!
The following are a few reasons you should invest in Costa Rica Real Estate!

1. Stable Government Means Stable Investments! The Costa Rican government is a very stable one. They are a democratic republic with three branches and have enjoyed a peaceful democratic existence since 1949. The government sees the high value of tourism and encourages foreigners to visit and retire in Costa Rica. This stable government ensures that the money you invest in your real estate is a safe investment and will not lose value suddenly.

2. The Currency Is Stable, So Your Money Is Safe! Because the government is a stable one, the currency is as well. The Costa Rican colon, also referred to as the CRC, is the official currency and one US Dollar is equal to 516.245 CRC. Both US Dollars and CRC are accepted widely throughout Costa Rica, as much as 90% of the establishments will accept the US dollar.

3. Taxes! Costa Rican taxes are considerably lower than that of which we are used to; in fact they are some of the lowest in the world. For example, the property tax is only .25%, and only income earned in Costa Rica is subject to income tax. Also, Costa Rica offers large amounts of income that can be deductible and is free from all taxing. That is a huge break compared to what most Americans are used to!

4. It's All About Location! If you're looking to invest in a vacation home, or moving to enjoy your retirement, you may find you are still traveling back to your home city for holidays or to visit friends and family. The following cities are a 3-5 hour flight away from Costa Rica: Miami, Houston, Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto.

Another great thing to love about Costa Rica is the eco-tourism that brings in more tourists every single year. Owning a beautiful home in the middle of this eco-friendly environment is a dream come true!

What is Eco-Tourism?

Eco-tourism, basically, is the purpose of traveling to a select destination for the natural areas you wish to visit there, and to understand the culture and natural history of that environment. An eco-tourist takes special care not to alter the ecosystem and instead tries to do things to better the preserve and make it a more enjoyable spot for those who visit. This is a very broad definition that encompasses a simple day trip to a wildlife preserve to a weeklong trip in the rainforest.

Costa Rica Takes Advantage

Eco-tourism is booming due to more and more people growing frustrated with the tourist traps of concrete hotel lined beaches and overcrowded amusement parks. And Costa Rica has definitely benefited! In 1998, Costa Rica had 943,000 tourist visitors while in 2000 they had an amazing 1,100,000! While many Third World nations are putting their efforts into rapid industrialization, Costa Rica has actually gone the other way and is dedicated to eco-tourism as the key to their economical development. Although the country is only about the size of West Virginia, the biodiversity is amazing; with scenic beaches, lush rain forest, impressive volcanoes, waterfalls and exotic wildlife.

The environment has greatly benefited from the increasing development of eco-tourism too. They have made great leaps and bounds since 1963 when their very first environmental protection reserve was created. Now there are 70 protected areas covering 21% of the nation's territory. While it did cause some locals to have to move and some industries shut down, it opened up an entirely new world of employment in the means of heavy increases in tourism.

It's easy to see why so many people are interested in investing in Costa Rica Real Estate! If you're considering Costa Rica wait no longer! The Time Is Now!

Telluride Real Estate -- It's Not About Money

Telluride Real Estate -- It's Not About Money

by Ray Roark


Far from the bling bling of Aspen, the rustic mining town of Telluride, Colorado, is surrounded by majestic snow capped peaks, dramatic waterfalls, and sunsets of pink, turquoise, orange and blue. Sure you will find charming Victorian homes with all of the modern conveniences, condos on the river, and log mansions on the mountain, but the beauty, recreation, and sense of community inspires a reality check every day of your life in this enchanted town. And, of course, investing in Telluride real estate will increase your bottom line, but it's not about money and it's not for everyone. Those who will gain the most from their investment are those that seek a greater reward, those that appreciate life and living.
It's amazing how quickly priorities skew and values change. Whether you own Telluride real estate or just visit, the incredible natural beauty of the area seems to keep one's life in perspective with a daily consciousness of nature and universe. Living in a postcard is life in Telluride. The spectacular, 14,000 foot peaks, mountains swathed in golden aspens during the fall, roaming elk herds numbering in the hundreds are a few of many sources of personal motivation and creative inspiration. Looking at mountains instead of buildings provides a continuous connection with nature. Beautiful and extreme changes in weather keep nature a consideration and priority. Breathtaking geography and coexistence with deer, elk, beaver, bears, and coyotes are constant reminders of our participation in life and responsibility as caretakers of our environment. But most of all the dangers of geography, weather, and wildlife also bring a consciousness of death and a sense of personal responsibility that gives one the greatest appreciation for living.

Beyond just a place to live, owning Telluride real estate is also an opportunity to exercise mind and body as you enjoy 300 days of sunshine each year. Telluride, Colorado, offers unlimited activities, opportunities, challenges, and new experiences keeping one physically healthy and mentally happy. While Telluride residents and visitors will find access to skiing and snowboarding within a few feet of their front door, they can also hike a short distance to the sources of rivers, bike across the valley floor, or enjoy an outdoor summer music festival. And throughout the area they will find fly fishing mountain streams and lakes, camping at the edge of a 1000 foot cliff, soaking in natural hot springs, and horseback riding across a sunny mesa. Other recreation includes snowmobiling, rollerblading, mountain biking, touring ghost towns, sleigh rides, rock and ice climbing, hunting, golfing, ice skating, rafting, kayaking, snowshoeing, ice fishing, 4 wheeling, and Telluride is home to many musicians and artists.

Whether Telluride's 2000 residents arrived with a certain inner peace and appreciation for life or gain their insight by becoming a part of the community, it is apparent in those you meet on the street or encounter on the river trail. Buying Telluride real estate is joining an exclusive society where people say hello, rally to help a fellow resident in need, and genuinely care more about your happiness than the car you drive. Six by 12 blocks in size, walking is the main mode of transportation and socialization. Telluride also provides free bus transportation and a free 2 mile gondola ride to neighboring Mountain Village and the ski area. Although Telluride has an airport, the town is not easy to get to, and for this reason most everyone in Telluride wants to be in Telluride.

The residents of Telluride are a close, supportive group that operates below the radar to host tens of thousands of guests every year. As a visitor, resident or owner of Telluride real estate in this resort community, you also enjoy a number of benefits not found in most small towns, such as, quality dining, a festive atmosphere with nighttime activities and parties, as well as, a range of upscale personal services. But, the tolerant and non-judgmental attitude where every voice makes a difference is Telluride's greatest distinction from many other small towns. The bank tellers keep treats for your puppy, and the post office serves hot chocolate and rice krispie treats while you wait in line during the Christmas rush. The giving and kindness of the locals is infectious and the single most valuable asset included with each real estate property sale. Telluride is not cheap, but it's not about money. Telluride real estate is a lifestyle inspired by nature, fueled by healthy activity and preserved by the genuine spirit of the people.

Real Estate Expansion in Costa Rica

Real Estate Expansion in Costa Rica

by Hamza Davis


Costa Rica is over 32, 000 miles of beautiful and immense mountains, low valleys, tropical rain forests and other natural resources. The Costa Rican government would like people to invest in Costa Rica. Buying real estate in Costa Rica isn't formidable. The government is doing everything that it can to intrigue investors so that the economy can remain strong. Recently, real estate in Costa Rica has proven to be a steadily growing commodity. This is undoubtedly due to the fact that Costa Rican officials constantly offer irresistible incentives to buyers investing in Costa Rica real estate along the coast as well as inland real estate in Costa Rica. While developing Costa Rica real estate is a focus to improve commerce in the nation, government officials have put various measures in place to insure that the country's beaches, rainforests, and other exotic elements indigenous to the region are preserved.
Costa Rica is the most technologically advanced country in all of Latin America! Exorbitant speed internet, cable and satellite television, cell phone service, air conditioning, sanitized running water, contemporary household appliances, and raw materials for building are all usable in Costa Rica. All the neoteric amenities needed for traditional and advanced medical care is also applicable. Life in Costa Rica is enjoyable for everyone because the cost of living is so very affordable. Professional services such as prescribed advice, accounting assistance, non resident medical care are provided at a fraction of the cost found in the United States and Europe.

Agile Marketing Solutions is pleased to nurture a private gated resort community located just south of the beaches of Nosara, Guanacaste Costa Rica. This is the introductory privately managed development in the region to feature a resort, vacation homes, villas, bar/restaurant, and a professional center all with 24 hour security. Due to the extraordinary demand, we will be building six more luxury condos beginning January 2008. We are looking for interested groups to invest in this amazing opportunity! La Pura Vida!

La Jolla Real Estate Offers Housing At Its Finest

La Jolla Real Estate Offers Housing At Its Finest

by J Harris


One of the most affluent communities in the country, the La Jolla real estate area offers a mixture of sophisticated charm with the carefree attitude of Southern California. La Jolla real estate is located only 15 minutes from downtown San Diego, and boasts gorgeous scenery, deluxe accommodations, and abundant recreational opportunities. Home to the nation's wealthiest and most prestigious individuals, La Jolla real estate offers the kind of extravagance that most of us rarely encountered.

Seaside Beauty Encompasses La Jolla Real Estate

Deemed the "jewel" of San Diego by residents, the La Jolla real estate area is encircled by immeasurable coastal beauty only found along the coastline of Southern California. Surrounded by magnificent beaches, towering palm trees, and breathtaking ocean views, La Jolla real estate offers the absolute best that the Northern San Diego area has to offer.

La Jolla real estate is blessed with an ideal climate, with temperatures only topping a pleasant 75 degrees in the summer months, and temperatures only dropping to 50 degrees in the winter time. This desirable climate allows residents of La Jolla real estate to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors all year long. Golfers, swimmers, surfers and fisherman can take advantage of the perfect La Jolla weather throughout the year.

La Jolla Real Estate Filled with Luxurious Accommodations

La Jolla real estate offers numerous housing options available for almost any accommodation. The La Jolla area differs from most modern suburbs in the fact that most of its housing is custom built, opposed to the usual manufactured and tract housing. Ranch houses, bungalows, condominiums and townhouses, in addition to mansions and estates, compose the majority of La Jolla real estate.

La Jolla real estate is some of the most sought after, as well as, the most expensive in all of the United States. Average La Jolla real estate prices range from $900,000 to more than $12 million. With breathtaking views, dazzling beaches, and a myriad of entertainment and recreation options throughout the area, many consider this a small price to pay for the opportunity to own real estate in the esteemed La Jolla community.

Various Recreational Options Surround La Jolla Real Estate

The La Jolla real estate area is notorious for its outstanding availability of recreation and entertainment activities. La Jolla Cove is a favorite of residents and vacationers alike because of its crystal clear, calm waters. Those who enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or scuba diving are drawn to the Cove, and consider it an ideal place for aquatic activities. Located in the shopping and dining district of La Jolla, Prospect Street offers everything from the latest fashion trends, to works by world renowned artists. Shops, boutiques, restaurants and art galleries line this famed street, and present the best of the areas offerings. The La Jolla real estate community is celebrated for its culture and surroundings, and remains one of the finest areas in all of Southern California.

Real Estate Investing Mistakes To Avoid

Real Estate Investing Mistakes To Avoid

by Jonas Jonsson


You've no doubt seen them or read them. Glossy ads or four-color spreads in magazines and newspapers promising to teach you all the juicy details about successful real estate investing. And all you have to do to learn all these real estate investing secrets is to pay a rather high sum for a one-or two-day seminar.

Often these slick real estate investing seminars claim that you can make smart, profitable real estate investments with absolutely no money down (except, of course, the hefty fee you pay for the seminar). Now, how appealing is that? Make a profit from real estate investments you made with no money. Possible? Not likely.

Successful real estate investment requires cash flow. That's the nature of any type of business or investment, especially real estate investing. You put your money into something that you hope and plan will make you more money.

Unfortunately too few newbies to the world of real estate investing think that it's a magical type of business where standard business rules don't apply. Simply put, if you want to stay in real estate investing for more than, say, a day or two, then you're going to have to come up with money to use and invest.

While it may be true that buying real estate with no money down is easy, anyone who's even made a basic real estate investment (like buying their own home) knows there's much more involved in real estate investing that can cost you money. For example, what about any necessary repairs?

So, the number one rule people new to real estate investing should remember is to have available cash reserves. Before you decide to actually do any real estate investing, save some money. Having a little money in the bank when you start real estate investing can help you make more profitable real estate investments in rental properties, for example.

When real estate investing in rental properties, you'll want to be able to select only qualified tenants. If you have no cash flow when real estate investing in rental properties, you might be pressured to take in a less qualified tenant because you need somebody to pay you money so that you can take care of repairs or lawyer fees.

For any type of real estate investing, meaning rental properties or properties you buy to resell, having cash reserved can allow you to ask for a higher price. You can ask for a higher price from your real estate investment because you won't feel financially strapped as you wait for an offer. You won't be backed into a corner and forced to accept just any offer because you desperately need the money.

Another downfall of many new to real estate investing is, well, greed. Make a profit, yes, but don't become so greedy that you ask for ridiculous rental or resale rates on any of your real estate investments.

Those new to real estate investing need to see real estate investing as a business, NOT a hobby. Don't think that real estate investing is going to make you rich overnight. What business does?

It takes about six months to determine if real estate investing in for you. If you've decided that, hey I love this, then give yourself a few years to really start making money. It usually takes at least five years to become truly successful in real estate investing.

Persistence is the key to success in real estate investing. If you've decided that real estate investing is for you, keep plugging away at it and the rewards will be greater than you imagined.

AGENT REAL ESTATE