Alajuela, Costa Rica: The next stop for real estate investors

Costa Rica’s second largest city, Alajuela lies 20 km northwest of the capital San Jose in the beautiful Central Valley also known as Villa Hermosa, "beautiful village” which lies just a few minutes away from the Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose's only International Airport. This is the perfect place for a quieter piece of paradise for the real estate investor or the future vacation home-owner.

With easy access and plenty of bus routes, getting in and out of Alajuela is not a problem. A leading trade center for cattle and the sugar industries of the neighboring areas, Alajuela is also a fantastic summer getaway for your next vacation home.

Many investors are aware that land that’s for sale in Costa Rica right now can make quick capital gains - however, buy in the right location and you can make even more money. Thanks in part to a favorable reduction taxation liability and the cheaper living costs; with everyday expenses up to 70% cheaper than in the US Alajuela is the right place for a safe and profitable real estate investment. Why? Location and price is why, and it’s a popular vacation destination for visitors and locals alike. An example is in April when the entire town celebrates Juan Santamaria Day with a huge parade and carnival in the city.

Additionally, you may want to try and tour Zoo Ave, the Butterfly Farm, or Poas Volcano, which lie just outside of town. The real estate prices are lower in this quaint city compared to the nearby capital making it a smart investment for building a home, developing, investing in land, or starting your vacation retreat. If you happen to pass through on a Saturday, the Central Market (Mercado Central) is an open market with fresh produce, meats and fish and within driving distance is the world-famous Arenal Volcano.

Your new home or investment will likely be rewarding given all the attractions nearby and the great deals to be had on land and housing. With as many as 1 million Americans expected to be living in Costa Rica by 2010, this is a great opportunity for real estate and land investors to get in early, and make a killing.