…is fast becoming one of the world's top destinations for real estate buyers. The high quality of life, the stunning scenery, spectacular beaches, sunshine and smiles with spring-like weather all year round, excellent health care system, foreigner-friendly real estate laws, no income taxes on foreign earned income, no capital gains taxes, eco-conscious democratic government and very attractive and friendly citizens draw its growing international community.

Known as the “SWITZERLAND OF THE AMERICAS” for its peaceful political climate, Costa Rica is attracting people from all over the world. There are estimated to be 77 million 'baby boomers' in the USA alone who will begin retiring in 2008 and it seems there's quite a few thinking about a Costa Rica retirement.

Tropical animals and exotic landscapes are an ideal setting for a second home in Costa Rica. A trip to Costa Rica requires only a two to five hour plane ride from most areas of the United States, allowing investors to visit and inspect their second homes regularly.

In addition to the country's natural beauty, Costa Rica property costs are remarkably lower than in the United States, and return on investments are higher. Last year, the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency World Fact Book ranked Costa Rica as one of five countries that stands "head and shoulders above all other nations worldwide in terms of the potential their real estate markets present property investors."

A piece of Costa Rica property currently costs approximately 70% less than equivalent property in America. Once developed, a Costa Rican piece of property can triple its value in as little as 5 years. To encourage development and investment, the Costa Rican government has reduced the slowing effects of "red tape" necessary to purchase or develop land.

Cost of living in neighboring countries Honduras and Nicaragua is slightly less than Costa Rica, but so is the quality of life. In Costa Rica, a monthly income of only $900 to $1200 affords a middle-class American standard of living. Retirees with over $2,000 per month can typically live a rather luxurious lifestyle.

Much of this is due to the strength of Costa Rica's currency and the dollars purchasing power. A full-time maid costs less than $300 each month. Costa Rican utilities, such as electricity and water, are one-third the price of North American utilities. Traveling across the entire country using public transportation is no more than $20. The country's capital (San Jose) has some of the least expensive goods and services in the world.

Retired persons can also begin second careers in Costa Rica. The development of new small businesses is welcomed and encouraged. In general, cafés and retail stores that sell fresh fruit are among the most popular options that afford long-term financial stability and feasibility.

As a result, Costa Rica real estate is gaining increased attention from American retirees and other individuals looking to purchase real estate in a foreign country. This has caused Costa Rica property prices to go up in recent years. However, Costa Rica has not adjusted to property values, and the cost of living remains much lower than America, Europe or Canada.

Similar to the real estate investment boom in California over 30 years ago, investing in Costa Rica is more promising than investing in other locations now. The drive to invest in Costa Rica is from those who understand the profit to be made and from individuals who wish to own their own piece of Paradise. Currently Fortune 500 companies have found Costa Rica as a great place to open offices.