Many expatriates buying property in the Central Pacific, particularly the Jacó area where there are so many condotels and resorts under construction, do so for investment rather than relocation purposes. As those projects come on line, that has started to change, with more buyers being end-users. Few, however, are full-time residents. Some individuals and families do move to the area permanently, yet they make their living in the real estate and tourist sectors.

The real estate market changes quickly in this area, the same as in other parts of Costa Rica. Just because you don’t find a certain kind of property one year doesn’t mean it won’t be there the next, as investors continue to chase the consumer. Security is a priority for most developers, as the majority of people buying are not permanent residents. It’s an extremely important point to consider if you’re looking to develop a project in the Central Pacific.

Lots of investors have turned to buying up large fincas inland from the Jacó area for subdivision and sale of the lots, though as mentioned before, the market for that type of property investment is becoming saturated. Most other business opportunities cater to tourists, and they include hotels, restaurants, and bars. This applies in both the Jacó and Manuel Antonio areas.

Given the amount of construction going on in the areas, there likely are opportunities for experienced construction professionals, though one would have to research the local qualifications one might need to do this kind of professional labor.