Ocean view lots in a solar powered surfing Shangri-La. A profile of Ostional’s NIMBU reserve.

74911Google the term “Ostional” and you’re likely to be met with an endless string of entries regarding the incredible phenomenon for which it is so famed. “Arribada” is the name given to the event in which tens of thousands of Leatherback and Olive Ridley turtles make their way ashore to dig nests and lay eggs. This incredible spectacle prompted the World Wildlife fund to name Ostional as one of the most important and valuable nesting sites in the world for these graceful creatures. Although the Arribada event ranks high on the list of things Ostional ostioffers, many visitors remain oblivious to the wealth of treasures that this town hides. However, a little searching is all it takes to discover the many hidden gems of this area, and little by little, a growing number of real estate investors are waking up to the fact that the abundant natural beauty, stunning ocean views, uncrowded surf, and close proximity to Playa Guiones all come together to form a lifestyle combination as rare and precious as the biological wonder that it hosts. Development in Ostional has rightly remained under the radar, and in order to ensure the natural beauty remains intact the developers at Ostional’s “NIMBU residential reserve” have worked hard to keep to a low impact design ethos. The net result is a development project which offers residents the chance to dwell in sustainable luxury in a modern day Garden of Eden.

NIMBU residents can look forward to waking up to views like this from the comfort of a secluded luxury home.

In the ancient Costa Rican native Chorotega language the word “Nimbu” translates to “water” and symbolizes the purity of living close to the coast. The Nimbu development is tucked away on one of the hills overlooking the Playa Ostional turtle reserve and was designed to appeal to community minded individuals who value sustainability, ocean views, natural surroundings, and surfing incredible waves. The mission statement was simple: to provide the best possible infrastructure with pathways to conscious development that are both socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable.

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Breakfast barrels at Playa Ostional

“Nimbu was created to foster a vibe where we can connect with the ocean and the land around us while also having the amenities and infrastructure we need to stay attached to our busy lives’” says project developer Mike Cothran. “The goal for me as a developer has not been to make a profit, but to provide a few large private spaces with some of the best utilities in the country. It is like taking a pretty painting and finding the best way to frame it. A place where my own family could imagine building our dream home and spending the rest of our days. To accomplish this, we have spent the last 5 years working on a sustainably based infrastructure. And although Nimbu has a rustic, nature filled exterior, underneath it can provide us everything we need and expect out of a modern off the grid community.”

A visit to the development provides conclusive evidence that the developers have striven to meet the high standards imposed by themselves. Because of Nimbu’s proximity to the turtle reserve, one of the main advantages for residents is the guarantee that nothing can ever be built between the development and the ocean, meaning that the biological treasures will remain undisturbed, and that views can never be obstructed by future development. In addition to limitless fresh water from the underground wells delivered via solar pumping stations residents are also offered homes where all the power is provided via the extensive solar technology waiting to be installed. In order to address concerns whether lighting from the development would confuse turtles all road and access lighting has been designed to be turtle friendly and energy efficient. Last but not least the developers planted over 14,000 plants in 12 irrigation zones. The irrigation zones were designed to reduce water consumption , and all plants are low water consumption native species that provide year round color and attract an abundance of local wildlife species.

Ocean view lots at the Nimbu development start at $200,000. To contact us about this opportunity click here, or to check out the listing directly click here.

Casa Vidrio – K section Playa Guiones – Walk to beach – Family home and workspace

Imagine you had the ability to travel anytime, anywhere — and that you could whisk the family off to a destination most only dream of, to a house you love rather than a place where you’re forced to live out of necessity. To most, this remains a mere pipe dream which in many cases comes down to one thing – your job! Continue reading

Iconic Nosara Surf Shop for Sale

When they’re not doing it they’re either talking about it or dreaming of it. It’s no secret that the vast majority of surfers aspire to an existesurf10nce that revolves entirely around surfing and the surf industry. Whether it’s the chance to surf whenever you want, be your own boss in an exciting and evolving industry, hang out with friends and trade surf stories, or having an arsenal of surfboards at your disposal, owning ones very own surf shop is most surfers dream. In fact the only thing better than owning a surf shop is owning a surf shop in a place where the waves are pumping pretty much 365 days a year; a place like,,,,,Playa Guiones. Well, in light of the recent news that the towns oldest, most well renowned surf shop has just hit the market it seems that the opportunity to make some lucky surfer’s dream come true has just arrived. Since opening it’s doors in 2002 the iconic Nosara Surf Shop has been serving local and visiting surfers with all their needs for over 13 years. In this short time Nosara Surf Shop lots-of-surfboardshas gained a stellar local reputation as a vibrant, lively business with a huge range of surf products to choose from. In addition to it’s central location on the most valuable area of land in Playa Guiones, Nosara Surf Shop is close enough to the beach to ensure that surfers will pass it’s front door on entry and exit from the water. In addition to visiting tourists Nosara Surf Shop has a loyal following within the local community ensuring steady year round business.

NSSSetting up the perfect surf shop is no easy task. Luckily, during the 13 years of successful operation vendor product streams are established and all aspects of the business are fully operating. This means the new owner of Nosara surf shop can enter the business assured that the hard work has been covered for them. As well as the property, the structures, the brand, the full inventory of retail items, and the surf rental inventory and business Nosara Surf Shop also comes complete with an existing client base, access to suppliers, and a great range of products for customers to select from. If this isn’t enough to keep you busy Nosara surf shop also comes complete with a fully functioning ATV rentals and tour business – perfect for satisfying adventure hungry tourists on down days.

NSS1This is truly a great opportunity for the right person to take the helm of what is bound to be a fantastic business and lifestyle investment. The entire inventory is documented, calculated and available upon request for serious inquiries. Click here to see the full listing or here to contact us for more information.

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Stop Dreaming and Start Living – Perfect Retreat Properties in Nosara!!

As modern society becomes an increasingly stressful place to exist, the number of people rejoicing at the thought of ditching the daily 9-5 routine of getting stuck in traffic en-route to a job they don’t care for is growing rapidly. Following your heart isn’t always easy. In fact it can be downright terrifying. However, when the desire to follow one’s passion is accompanied by the correct planning it really is possible to achieve a lifestyle that most merely dream of. As Nosara’s reputation as a holistic vacation hotspot increases, more people are seeking to move here and buy into a business that promises more than the rinse and repeat way of life back home. In light of this Nosara Real Estate Report has compiled the following list of real estate opportunities suited to those looking to revamp their work life balance in paradise. Whether it be a surf camp, yoga and wellness center, or something completely different rest assured that at least one of the following properties will check all the boxes you require.

Tons of potential with this Nosara landmark

lukgThis property is home to the legendary Black Sheep English Pub. A nature retreat or wellness and yoga center are only a few of the many things this property would be perfect for. With a fifty foot lap pool, accommodation for up to 12 people, and of course your very own pub this is a great opportunity for someone looking to enter into the Nosara tourism trade. Priced at $495,000. Click here to see this listing, or here to contact us.

Get off the grid in style

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This energy independent farm is truly a special place. Although it looks down on both the Pacific and the Jungle, the main house also overlooks 53,000m2 of plantations, vegetable gardens, livestock, fruit orchards and much more. This solar eco farm is a mere 10 minute drive from the ocean and is the ideal location for either an eco business, or a group or family looking to get entirely off the grid. Priced at $895,000. Click here to see this listing, or here to contact us.

Beautiful turnkey hotel. Amazing location – Great price

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Hotel Paspartu sits on the main Pelada through road only 300m from the idyllic golden sands of Playa Pelada, and less than a minutes walk from all the bars, restaurants and amenities that Pelada has to offer. This is a true turnkey business that offers both a great lifestyle and immediate income for the owner. Priced at $325,000. Click here to see this listing, or here to contact us.

Land size and Location!

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Not only does this great parcel of land come with an existing 3 bedroom house it is currently one of the best deals on the Nosara real estate market. It is a great option for someone looking to expand by building either long term rentals, or several cabinas for retreat guests. Located at the top of Las Huacas mountain this property was recently reduced by $100k and will not stay on the market long. Priced at $299,000. Click here to see this listing, or here to contact us.

Great lifestyle investment in San Juanillo

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1500m of ocean view jungle in San Juanillo with plenty of room to expand, at a price that is hard to turn down. An incredible lifestyle investment on a property that comes with too many features too list. Priced at 299,000. Click here to see this listing, or here to contact us.

Perfect Retreat center in Playa Guiones

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Buena Vista Villas is another property that represents a great opportunity to hit the ground running on a Nosara business. As well as six single units there is also a lovely 2 bedroom unit with a pool and incredible views from Ostional to Playa Guiones. This is a great option for someone either looking to attract retreat groups or just renting out the units long term. Priced at $529,000. Click here to see this listing, or here to contact us.

Hopping distance to the sand and surf

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This is one of the best located pieces of real estate currently available. There is currently a small casita with a pool, and a two bedroom house that has been used as a rental property. In addition to it being in a bulls-eye G Section location the land has been legally segregated into 5 separate properties. Huge potential for surf camps or retreats in an unbeatable area. Priced at $479,000. Click here to see this listing, or here to contact us.

The Living Hotel – WOW!

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In an area that increases in popularity daily, and only steps from the surf and sand of Playa Guiones The Living Hotel has already become a firm favorite with not only guests, but the many retreat groups who have made it their destination for holistic vacations. The 2400m2 of land includes an expansive saltwater swimming pool, a huge rancho, a spa, restaurant and many other fantastic amenities. Priced at $1,850,000. Click here to see this listing, or here to contact us.

Playa Guiones original holistic haven

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After opening in 2003 The Heart of Guiones Wellness Center has since established a reputation as Nosara’s leading holistic wellness center. This property includes massage studios, a fitness studio, a pilates studio and an existing house, all located on the primest stretch of land in Playa Guiones. Priced at $2,125,000. Click here to see this listing, or here to contact us.

Create your own wonderland!

;liuThis well appointed Ocean View Villa sits on 20000m2 of land overlooking Playa Pelada, and with 18 separate parcels of land would make the perfect location for a B&B, Boutique Hotel, Resort, Retreat, Multi Family Compound, or simply full time or vacation home in the heart of Nosara. This is currently the only property in the Nosara real estate market of this size, with these views, and with such proximity to the beach. The potential of the place is limited only to the owners imagination. Priced at $899,000. Click here to see this listing, or  here to contact us.

 

Nosara Ocean View Lots at a Price that won’t Break the Bank

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How about waking up to this?

If you have ever surfed Playa Guiones then you know how it feels between sets to look up to the houses on Las Huacas mountain and quietly wonder how good it must feel to wake up each morning to be greeted by the site of a 180 degree shimmering Pacific panoramic view. Or to wind down the day with another equatorial lightshow of a sunset. For most people a quick browse on any of the local realty sites makes for disheartening confirmation that turning this dream into a reality is unaffordable. For those that dream of owning a Nosara ocean view property at a price they can afford then the good news is your ticket may have just come up!!

vfg9Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to spend half a million dollars to acquire ocean view land in Nosara….if you know where to look. If you’re seeking a property with spectacular ocean views, zero dust, cool breezes in a secluded area and at a price both affordable and financially smart then you should probably keep reading.

8A ten minute drive South from Cafe de Paris there is a road that deviates East. After a short drive you arrive at the foothills of the surrounding mountains that are home to these lots. This development began when two friends from New York who were avid surfers and Nosara residents came together to create a high end yet affordable community. Part of an exclusive residential community, these lots are high on a mountaintop which overlooks a tropical fusion of jungle, ocean and blue sky. The verdant landscape below coupled with an abundance of flora, fauna and rolling waterfalls all combine to make this community the ultimate secluded tropical retreat.

14All of these lots are ready to go with water, electricity, and level building pads perfect for a family home. Despite the natural beauty and fantastic potential of this development the true value of this community may lie in the developers commitment to maintaining the environments natural aesthetic. Such projects are rapidly being held up as the future of environmentally conscious development and thus make for a great financial and sustainable investment.
Lots start at $100k up to $225k with sizes ranging from 850 – 9,000m2.  8 lots are sold and 15 more remain available. For more information on these lots contact us now.

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The Nosara Guide to Getting off The Grid

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Modern sustainable technologies have drastically altered traditional perceptions of ‘off grid living’

It’s been written that if the history of the earth was compressed into a year then the industrial revolution took place on December 31st at approximately 11:59:58pm. Prior to this (hominids began evolving in Africa around 6:30pm on December 31st FYI) defining “off the grid living” was easy – because there was no grid to live off. It was simply called “living”. Today, as humankind wrestles to separate the technological wheat from the chaff the lines have become blurred. Most commonly, the term “off grid” refers to a home that features systems and technologies that allow it to operate independently of all traditional public utility services. In simple terms; a home which could remain functional even as civilization collapsed around it.

otg2To many people, the thought of severing the link between themselves and certain products, technologies and utilities which they have come to depend on is unthinkable. However to a rapidly growing number of others this mode of shortsighted cultural thinking is wholly responsible for an increasingly degraded planet. Addicted to oil as if it were crack, current data indicates rainforests being erased at a rate of 1-2 percent per year – mainly to provide the grain to raise the beef to feed an increasing human population. Conversation between government leaders has now moved – in private – past the point of pondering the health of social structures, and is now focused on WHEN these structures will tank. When modern civilization’s quest to drain the worlds resources is complete, the first thing to become starkly apparent will be the true fragility of the house of cards in which we have been living. In the face of a failing socio-economic model and chronic governmental ineptitude, the number of people reacting by moving towards a sustainable lifestyle is growing daily – and herein lies the silver lining.

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The Pirris Hydro Electric Dam in the Southern part of San Jose Province, Costa Rica

Last week global social media was ablaze with the news that Costa Rica hit a milestone by going 75 days in a row using only sustainable energy. This landmark event reflects a wider shift by a number of Latin American countries towards sustainable policies. Amongst a few other locations on the front line of this trend is the Costa Rican town of Nosara. In recent years, Nosara has begun, and continues to develop the kind of environmentally sustainable community that many Nosara residents hope will serve as a blueprint for neighboring regions. Due in large part to organizations such as Nosara recycles, Nosaras reputation as a bastion of eco-conscious policy is growing. As well as being good news for the environment it’s also proving fortuitous for a number of local sustainable technology businesses who’s mission is to help residents distance themselves from ‘the grid’. If you’re amongst the burgeoning number of Nosara residents who feel it’s high time to make your habitat sustainable then the following is a list of local businesses recently created to meet those needs:

SOLAR:

otg6Helios Solar Solutions is the brainchild of a group of solar power experts and consultants living in Costa Rica. Despite the installation company being based in San Jose the managing director and founder of this company is a long time Nosara resident. In the short time since the companies inception a number of people living in the Nosara and Playa Guiones area are already feeling the benefits of the companies products, specifically the groundbreaking transverter technology. www.heliosolarsolutions.com

E-mail: helios.solar.cr@gmail.com  Phone:+(506) 8554 4318

WATER CATCHMENT

otg7A combined yearning to do get off the grid, do something he enjoyed, and serve the needs of the community inspired Nosara resident Nick Mcalpin to focus his years of engineering expertise on the water challenges Nosara faces. Nick went about installing rainwater catchment systems on his Nosara property, and after word of his achievements went viral Nick was flooded with requests from local residents requesting similar technology. Thus began the organic birth of ‘Finca Pica’ which now provides water catchment solutions in and around Nosara.

Email: alwaysurf@gmail.com

WATER TREATMENT

otg8Costa Rica Eco Green Solitions was created by two Nosara residents in an effort to lessen water consumption, reduce peoples water costs, and curtail environmental impact. In addition to providing the latest grey water treatment solutions these guys have also begun importing solar water heating systems modified specifically to cater to the often harsh jungle conditions of the Nosara area. The website is under construction and should be up and running in the near future.

Email: marion@nosaraconstruction.com

Phone: +(506) 8718 0021

Off Grid Nosara Property Listings

otg9Alternatively, if its an all inclusive off the grid home that your’e after then Nosara Real Estate Report has a range of properties to suit your needs: This solar ecofarm 10 minutes from Playa Guiones is an off grid dream. As well as featuring state of the art solar and water catchment technology it also provides an abundance of home grown food.

http://nosaraplatinumproperties.com/off-the-grid-living-close-to-the-nosara-coastline

otg10The Nosara Hills development features a range of stunning ocean view properties and come complete with water catchment systems and solar power options.

https://www.nosararealestatereport.com/property/nosara-hills-luxury-home-ocean-views/

Fully self sufficient solar farm for sale – Off the grid Nosara luxury minutes from the Ocean

 

To jump directly to the listing click here
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Meet the neighors – Yes, that’s the farmhouse in the background

Nowadays, the number of people seeking a sustainable lifestyle is growing daily. The sustainable lifestyle they seek often involves cutting the cord between themselves and the centralized utility system – a practice commonly known as ‘off-the-grid’ living.

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This place is 100% solar powered

Back in the day, defining “off the grid” living was easy, simply because there was no grid to live off. It was just called “living”. Today the lines have become blurred. The term ‘off-grid’ refers to a home which could survive independently even if civilization collapsed around it. In practical terms; a home that is able to operate entirely independently of all traditional public utility services by using technologies and systems that produce everything it’s inhabitants need. In addition to an environmentally responsible lifestyle, zero energy expenditure and simply being ahead of the times, the benefits of off grid living are as varied as they are extensive. A ten minute drive from Playa Guiones, in the foothills of Guanacaste one man has been feeling these benefits for a some time now. The owner of this fully self sufficient farm decided a few years ago that the time to put his dream of independent living into action was nigh. What he created serves as a blueprint for anyone seeking to adopt such a lifestyle. Furthermore, with the news that this farm is now on the market, the opportunity to buy into such a lifestyle without the years of labor that goes into creating it now exists.

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At this point you may be having thoughts of primitive yokels returning to a rustic cabin after a day spent wallowing in farm animal dung – you’d be wrong, and after viewing the place from the vantage of the infinity pool prepare to have any preconceptions blown away. After purchasing the 53000 square meters of raw land in 2011 the current owner has lovingly created an environment which, in addition to being the ultimate off grid compound, could serve as anything from an IMG_6369-2organic food retreat center to a sustainable eco-tourism resort. Located only a 10 minute drive from the Pacific Ocean, this farm grows everything you could possibly wish for. Amongst an exhaustive list of many other foods it provides yucca, kale, tomatoes, peppers, shard, orange, limes, mango, pineapples and coconuts, all of which is tended by water from the private well dug deep underground. Solar heaters provide hot water, and an array of solar panels deliver more IMG_6458-2than enough power to keep the 2 level modern main house, modern cabinas, appliances and irrigation systems ticking over. The livestock inventory currently includes cows, pigs, sheep and chickens. The animals are fed a mixture of organic feed, and food scraps from the farm. Fruits and vegetables are fertilized by the animals to ensure the freshest, most natural tasting produce.

The ecofarm is located in the Guanacaste hills near to the village of Delicias. Despite being encircled by jungle it is only a 3 kilometer drive South East from the stunning sands of “Playa Garza”.

For the full listing, including all specs click here.

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Pacific Ocean and Playa Garza in the     background

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The modern house is fully sufficient

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Water comes from a limitless underground source

 

This property comes with a lovely private waterfall

This property comes with a lovely private waterfall

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What water shortages? One Nosara resident’s quest to prevent us going thirsty

Despite what the brochures would have you believe, Costa Rica is not made up entirely of lush, tropical jungle. Nosara is located in the countries driest region – Guanacaste. September and October here witness torrential rain on a daily basis, and other than the odd downpour in the months proceeding September and October the rest of the year is drier than a camels flip flop. This creates pressing dilemmas for local water authorities, and often leaves residents subject to water shortages due to local businesses efforts to prevent tourists going unwashed and thirsty. Despite efforts from the local ASADA team that work hard – often in the face of overwhelming odds to meet Nosaras growing water needs, shortages are still a problem. Although professional engineering teams have assured residents that the necessary infrastructure is in place to keep Nosaras water flowing for decades, the water system still faces a number of problems including outdated tanks, fractured pipes and underfunded management. Many with close ties to the issue feel that Nosara has been neglected at both the regional and national level and have taken it upon themselves to take the necessary steps. One such person is Nick Mcalpin. Born in North Carolina, Nick and his wife moved to Nosara in 2008. The combination of a desire for an off the grid lifestyle, along with a yearning to do something he enjoyed while serving the needs of the community inspired Nick to focus his expertise on the impending water challenges Nosara faces. Nick began by installing rainwater catchment systems on his property in Nosaras L Section. After word of his achievements spread Nick experienced a wave of requests from local residents experiencing water issues and thus requesting similar technology to that which Nick had set up in his home. Nick began his

Nick Mcalpin's pretty serious when it comes to water

Nick Macalpin’s pretty serious when it comes to water

quest to help people out and so began the organic birth of ‘Finca Pica’. If further validation was needed concerning whether Nick made the correct business choice one need only look at his work schedule – which doesn’t contain an opening until some time after June 2015. Nosara Real Estate Report recently sat down with Nick to get the lowdown on the  Nosara water situation, and discuss ways in which problems are being tackled.

NRER: So, I’ve heard you’ve been busy.

Nick: Slammed.

NRER: You’re building water systems around Nosara?

Nick: Yeah. The idea was to go into business primarily designing and building rainwater harvesting systems, and help people get started filtering their water supply, but with the constant pressure issues we’ve been having the last couple of years, I’ve been forced to focus mainly on tank and pump reserve systems.

NRER: Are you selling the tanks too, or just installing them?

Nick: No, we’re not selling tanks. We’re helping people get tanks at a discount. I’ve been working directly with la Casa del tanque in the Central Valley, which allows me to purchase tanks for about 40% of what they’re priced at locally. When several people need tanks at the same time i organize an order so everyone can split the transport costs. There’s no profit on the tanks themselves
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 NRER: So how do the reserve systems work?

Nick: For people worried primarily about complete outages, we’ll have a tank somewhere on the property being fed by a small line coming from the house’s main water supply. When the water goes out, the homeowner can close a valve to shut off the ASADA feed, and open a valve to allow the pump at the base of the tank to pressurize the house. If the tank’s big enough, the homeowner can generally run off the tank until the ASADA provides water again. For people in neighborhoods with chronic pressure issues, which is slowly becoming more common, we have the ASADA feed run directly into the tank, and a pump / pressure tank system receives water from the holding tank and sends it to the house. The idea is that even though there’s not enough water pressure for the house’s water system to function properly there is generally enough pressure to keep a tank full, even at a trickle. Generally, the tank level will do most of it’s catching up at night when demand is low.

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NRER: Can’t people elevate tanks, and use the elevation for pressure?

Nick: A column of water exerts about .43 psi per foot of elevation. A tank 10 feet tall on a tower 10 feet high, would only exert 8.6 pounds of pressure at ground level. A lot easier with a pump.

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NRER: And the water coming from the reserve tanks needs to be filtered?

Nick: I worry more at my house about what I’m putting in the tank, rather than what’s coming out. The tanks are a closed system – tight caps, screened vents, three layer polyethylene. Sunlight can’t even get in. I begin with the basic idea that ASADA water should always be filtered, period. The first thing ASADA water should come in contact with on your property is a filtering system. Clean water in the tanks, clean water out.

NRER: What are you so concerned with filtering out?

Nick: Sediment always comes first. We have a ton of sediment in the Nosara water supply. Sediment’s what sent me down the path of researching all the available filtering options for our house to start with. I guess i got tired of taking aerators off all the faucets and dumping sand and debris out every few days.

NRER: What comes after the sediment?

Nick: We have a filter house next to our meter with two 10″ canisters. The first is a 25 micron sediment filter, and the second is a 10 micron carbon filter for chlorine reduction, and taste and odor issues. Once the water leaves there we’re plumbed to run through a salt free conditioning unit that will arrive in a few weeks, and the last stage is a 50 GPD (gallons per day) reverse osmosis unit in our kitchen.

NRER: What’s the idea behind the conditioner and the reverse osmosis?

Nick: The conditioner is for the calcium scaling. I didn’t want a conventional softener that i would have to add piles of salt to every year and have to supply with electricity. The salt free conditioners simply crystallize the calcium particles so they can’t bind together. It’s like the calcium’s not there as far as your appliances and glass surfaces are concerned, but it’s still in the water for everyone arguing the whole blue zone thing. The reverse osmosis unit just filters the water to a ridiculously fine point, and then runs into a separate faucet i mounted in the sink for filling glass bottles. the conditioner will help the reverse osmosis unit, as does the carbon filter outside, and the additional carbon filter on the unit itself. Two of the worst things for an reverse osmosis membrane are calcium scaling and even the slightest bit of chlorine.

NRER Isn’t the whole reverse osmosis thing overkill?

Nick: I’ve seen loads of sediment come down the line after a break in the main. I’d imagine any diesel, gas, transmission fluid, etc. that may possibly leak from this fine fleet of automobiles we see on our roads and run into the ditch with the rains can’t be far behind. I’d rather be safe than sorry.

NRER: Where are the pressure issues and outages coming from?

Nick: Growth in the tourism sector and development out-pacing upgrades to the system.

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NRER: Is that where the whole rainwater thing came from, the water outages?

Nick: I knew for a few years i wanted to have a rainwater system, and was starting to feel pressure to have a good reserve system in place after running out of water several times last dry season. Once i figured out how to make one system out of the two concepts, i got it done.

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NRER: So your rainwater system doubles as a reserve system?

Nick: Yeah. basically, we have a 4200L tank used solely to store ASADA water, three 1950L tanks connected directly to the gutters in the back yard, a 1950L rain tank in the side yard, three 55 gallon olive barrels off the front porch, and another 55 gallon olive barrel we intend to use to catch a.c. condensation after we change out the side porch to a metal roof for solar. That’s a little over 8000L of capacity in the rainy season, and once we run the rain barrels empty during the dry season in the gardens, we can just fill them with ASADA water for emergency use. well over 12,000L of storage all together. The long-term plan is to start a storage system up on one of our hilltops so when the rain tanks around the house fill up early in the rainy season, we can cut the pump on and send all the water up top to storage, emptying the tanks and making room for more collecting. you do that a few times during the rainy season and you can start stock-piling serious amounts of water.

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NRER: You could actually fill tanks several times?

Nick: When you start doing the math, it gets pretty crazy what’s possible. I always use a 1000 square foot roof as an example to keep it simple. a 1000 square foot roof will shed 640 gallons of water for every 1″ of rain that falls on it. Guanacaste, on average, receives about 117″ of rain during the wet months. From 117″ that same 1000 square foot roof will shed around 74,880 gallons of water. You start figuring in bodegas, greenhouses, bus stops, hardware stores, and everything else with a roof on it and Nosara’s collective rooftops probably shed more water each year than we actually consume as a community.

NRER: Could most people actually catch everything that’s coming off their roof?

Nick: No, the average homeowner would most likely only catch a fraction of what’s available due to the cost of the tanks, and the space available to add more tanks. This is just a small piece of a bigger puzzle. even if you’re only catching a couple thousand gallons a year, that’s water the ASADA didn’t have to pay I.C.E. outrageous fees to pump, and your plants will love you for it.

NRER: And the water’s clean?

Nick: With a well designed system, the water going into the tanks should be free of debris. At the end of our downspouts, just below the gutters, we have screened downspout diverters that help the system shed leaves and any other large debris that could clog up our first flush systems. The first flush system just below the diverters is a long tube that catches the initial water coming off your roof when a rainstorm rolls in. The initial water coming off your roof is the dirty stuff containing bird crap, mosquito eggs and dust that collects between storms. Once the first flush tube fills up with the dirty water, a plastic ball floats to the top, seals the first flush tube, and the clean water runs into the tanks. We also have screened overflow outlets so the insects can’t simply fly into the tank through the drain. After the rainstorm, the first flush tube slowly drains itself through a bleeder at the bottom, ready to go to work when the next storm arrives.

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NRER: How much water has to be diverted?

Nick: Between 12.5 and 50 gallons per 1000 square foot of roof space being collected from., depending on the severity of local pollution. Our rooftops are fairly polluted once our dust problem is factored in, so i tend to figure Nosara at around 35 gallons per thousand, a little more with tile roofs, which are a whole issue unto themselves.

NRER: Does the first flush make the water drinkable?

Nick: No. the first flush makes sure the water is free of debris and isn’t a dengue factory. How far a homeowner takes water purification after that is strictly up to them, depending on what they intend to use to water for. We’re experimenting with ours now, and have a whole filter system dedicated solely to the rainwater. For irrigation, no further filtering is needed.

NRER: So is rainwater collection something the ASADA should be pursuing?

Nick: No. Rainwater collection is an individual choice. It’s one of multiple steps towards a homeowner’s individual water security, although it would be great to see a big rain tank sitting next to the ASADA building itself. It would be a strong message to the 11 or 12 people who actually show up during elections.

NRER: So what are some other steps people should be taking?

Nick: I know it may not be an option for folks close to the beach, or in the densely packed neighborhoods, but out where I’m at, the first step is putting in a well. I won’t argue publicly for or against actually permitting the thing. I think there are strong arguments on both sides of the conversation, but nothing will push you harder towards individual water security than finding and utilizing your own water source. A good well system and you most likely won’t even need an ASADA hook-up. Once you start adding raintanks around all your structures with rooftops, and utilizing grey water more efficiently you can really see the whole self-sufficient thing start to take shape.

NRER: What do you mean by utilizing grey water?

Nick: Grey water’s the stuff, for the most part, without all the nasty stuff mixed in – washing machine discharge, kitchen sinks, showers and tubs. A guy in Tucson named Brad Lancaster has the best setup ever in his laundry room. Instead of the washing machine discharge hose being jabbed into a pipe that makes it’s way to the septic system, he has a whole set of pipes, each one labeled with the name of a different fruit tree. Every time he washes clothes, you just stick the drain line into a different pipe, in essence watering a different tree every time you do laundry. Water from outdoor showers can be diverted to different plants in the same manner. With the right use of organic and non-toxic soaps, shampoos, and laundry detergents, most grey water can be sent directly to fruit trees and native plants, helping keep hillsides green and roots strong and ready to hold delicate soils in place when the first rains return, all with little or no additional water use.

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NRER: What about the nasty stuff? The black water?

Nick: Black water in Nosara, until very recently, has been ignored as a source of water. Conventionally in this area, you flush the toilet, and the black water runs into a septic tank, where the anaerobic bacteria naturally found in your waste, breaks the waste down before it is allowed to leach into the ground. When it hits the ground it comes in contact with aerobic bacteria in the soil and breaks down completely over time. People are finally exploring the use of 2 and 3 tank aearated septic systems around town. The 1st tank is like normal where the anaerobic bacteria does it’s work. In the 2nd tank, a small aerator is used to introduce aerobic bacteria into the waste – kind of like the pump blowing bubbles in a fish aquarium. The aerobic bacteria from the pump can do the work much faster than would naturally occur in the soil, and treat the water to an almost drinkable quality. You can then use the water for irrigation. Imagine if every time you flushed the toilet, you were stabilizing hillside vegetation, rather than leaching waste into the ground.

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NRER: Well, what about the neighborhoods near the beach and the more densely packed areas?

Nick: If i lived in one of the neighborhoods now experiencing chronic pressure issues, the first thing to do is get a reserve system. 25 pounds of pressure for several months straight, for me, just won’t cut it. I think it would be pretty smart for a lot of these neighborhoods to start working together for water security, much the same as they do for break-ins. In many of these neighborhoods where the pressure always struggles, you can find deep, heavy producing wells. I’ve seen wells down near the beach that would provide for 10 or 20 houses. I know you can’t legally sell your neighbors water, but a group of neighbors could definitely cooperate with each other to help improve their situation. If the entire neighborhood can’t be brought together, people could start on a 2, 3, or 4 house level and go from there. In the neighborhoods with the worst pressure issues, folks may want to consider getting together in groups, and collectively purchasing the last available lots near them, before they’re sold and built on, adding to the problem.

NRER: What about the ASADA problems as a whole, and the need to upgrade the system? What now?

Nick: There’s a small army of folks exploring every option available to try and get ahead of this issue. New wells are being drilled and tested. Alternate sources of water are being looked into. Broad funding is being lobbied for. The engineer’s plans have been submitted. If approved, this gives the ASADA some breathing room, and also helps them get out of the shadow of the whole voluntary rate system and move towards a more financially sustainable model. Does the planned overhaul of the system go far enough when you take into account per person water usage in the project? Probably not even close, but it gives us a starting point. A regional dialog has also been initiated in hopes that eventually the 6 or 7 sister ASADAs in our immediate area can begin to work together to solve problems, and in the long term, share water in times of crisis through a well integrated system. If the major obstacle we always run into is regulation, maybe we should start thinking on a national level and try to change what’s preventing the fixing of water issues. Helping keep everything up and running however does start on a local level. Its laughable to see everyone bitch about water issues on Nosara rant and rave facebook page, only to have 25 of us, out of 500 and some odd meters, actually show up to vote for who gets to run the show and interact with all these agencies.

NRER: So this won’t all just fix itself if we give it time?

Nick: No!

For more information contact Nick Macalpin at alwaysurf@gmail.com

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Condos are king as Nosara property prices rise

As Nosara property prices climb real estate offices are witnessing a growing number of clients wishing to experience the Nosara lifestyle while avoiding paying the kind of money that regular property ownership requires. This has lead to an upswing in inquiries about condominiums in Nosara. Here’s a few reasons why the condominium ownership option is more attractive than ever:

Convenience

Many Nosara property owners are foreigners who choose to use their home only certain times of the year. They often spend only a small portion of their time in Nosara, and so managing their property from overseas can seem daunting. However condo owners have no such worries. One of the leading benefits of owning a condo in Nosara is that the vast majority of the day to day maintenance is taken care of by a Home Owners Association (HOA).

Income

Condo Del Sol - An Incredible location at a great price

Condos Del Sol – An Incredible location at a great price

Renting your condo out to either long or short term visitors to Nosara is a fantastic way to offset ownership costs. Due to a number of factors including expanded flights into Liberia Airport and increasing media coverage of Nosara as a tourist destination vacation short term rentals have experienced a significant boost in recent times. Nosara boasts a number of highly acclaimed international schools which has been a catalyst for more and more families to able to spend greater amounts of time here. This has lead to a significant increase in long term rentals. Given their location and affordability condos often represent the best choice for both short and long term renters.

Location

One of the spacious bedrooms at Villa Las Palmas

One of the spacious bedrooms at Villa Las Palmas

Many foreign investors arrive in Nosara with dreams of owning an incredible beachfront luxury home or swanky ocean view residence. The reality is that the price of these properties is beyond the reach of many of these visitors, particularly when their Nosara property will not be their primary home. Condos however afford the owner the opportunity to enjoy all of these benefits at a fraction of the price. Many of the condos available in Nosara are close to the restaurants, nightlife, shops and last but not least – only steps from the beach.

Featured below is a selection of some of the fantastic condo ownership opportunities currently available in Nosara:

Villa Las Palmas

vLP1Located in a tranquil corner of North Pelada the Villa Las Palmas luxury condominiums are situated as close to the beach as Costa Rican law will allow. Villa Las Palmas offers a serene, luxury lifestyle and comes with fully tended gardens, large pool, laundry room and VLP224 hour security. Villa Las Palmas features modern amenities and lots of living space. There are currently lots of options available to own a condo at Villa Las Palmas, with some of these homes priced well below market value. Prices start at $185,000. Click here to see our Villa Las Palmas listings.

Condos Del Sol

CDS3Only a minutes walk away from the ‘palm tree entrance’ to Playa Guiones Condos Del Sol are located in the H Section in a 10 condo boutique style development. Condos Del Sol come fully equipped with modern furnishings, a state of the art kitchen, beautiful pool and rancho area and are CDS2within a stones throw of local restaurants and shops. If you’re searching for the ultimate Nosara location that offers substantial rental income potential at a price that won’t break the bank then Conds Del Sol is a great option. Prices start at $249,000. Click here to see our Condos Del Sol listings.

Villa Del Sol

VDS4The Villa Del Sol development are the current jewel in the crown of the Nosara condo market. They sit within a thirty second walk from a stunning (and private) beach. They are constructed according to the latest European standards and include the highest quality fixtures and finishings. These are the VDS2newest condos to hit the Nosara market and in terms of construction and aesthetics they are unmatched. Big, comfortable and private (gated community). Villa Del Sol has garnered a great reputation for solid rental income and has a first class management team all ready in place. Prices start at $265,000. Click here to see our Villa Del Sol listings

Although condo ownership in Nosara is not for everyone, the location, convenience, and potential to generate solid income continues to appeal to a wide range of foreign investors. If you are thinking of embarking on a Costa Rican adventure and feel that a condominium could be right for you contact us now to help you decide which property is for you.

 

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5 ways to ruin your visit to Nosara

Drive like a jerk

rallyThe smoothing out of the Nosara roads has long been a source of contention among residents, with valid arguments both for and against the paving of the roads. Irrespective of what is, isn’t, should or shouldn’t be happening the fact remains that the dusty, potholed roads that currently connect Nosara can be perilous for drivers, pedestrians and local residents in more ways than one. If you catch yourself plodding along in your car behind a motorcycle, waiting to shoot past them while thinking “what in the hell is wrong with this town?” then a quick glance in the mirror should answer your question.

Remedy: Take a breath, remember where you are and ask yourself whether you really need to be there 30 seconds earlier.

Set up business with the first person you meet

beachcryRemember that guy at Tropicana feeding you guaro shots while promising two hundred percent annual returns in the land of Pura Vida? Well, you’ll definitely remember him when the hard earned cash you dropped on that ‘investment opportunity of a lifetime’ mysteriously disappears, leaving you to wonder whether it was the incredible sunsets, hot locals or stunning ocean views that prompted you to leave your business brain at home in a jar. Granted, Costa Rica is abundant with honest, well intentioned individuals pitching genuinely alluring business opportunities. But like anywhere there’s always the bad apples, and it’s amazing how many well educated, street smart visitors are happy to chew on those apples when they descend into ‘Costa Rica’ mode.

Remedy: If it sounds too good to be true then it probably is. Don’t think the business acumen you’ve acquired in your native country qualifies you to outsmart the Costa Rican system. Don’t mix business with pleasure, and when it comes to making big decisions trade the local nightclub for the local attorney’s office.

Disrespect the local environment

plasticbeachAs the international travel media spotlight focuses more and more on Nosara phrases such as ‘holistic hotspot, undiscovered Shangri-La’ and ‘jungle paradise’ get reduced to off the cuff, snappy advertising jingles. This doesn’t make them any less true. Nosara is all of these things and more because the residents – both human and non-human are creatures who genuinely care about the unique, fragile and increasingly threatened place they call home.

Remedy: Recycle, don’t throw litter, and if you see litter then tap into your inner altruist and pick it up. If you buy real estate remember that the ‘it won’t hurt if I just cut this one tree down’ attitude is the reason you might find yourself sitting in your dream house ten years later wondering why the natural beauty and abundant wildlife that seduced you in the first place has ‘mysteriously’ disappeared.

Only do things that you’ve done before

cpSure, your hotel room is ridiculously comfortable and the TV comes with 150 channels of witless gibberish. But did you really come all the way to Nosara to watch “Robocop” with subtitles? One of the most common travel regrets involves the phrase “If only I’d have done that when I had the chance.” In Nosara that thing you didn’t do could be anything from reeling in a monster marlin to barreling down the beach watching sunset from atop of a horse

Remedy: Leave your comfort zone behind. Get out and try one of the many activities Nosara is renowned for. Your TV will still be there when you get home.

Throw money around yammering about how you’re gonna turn this hick little town into the new Acapulco

greedydeveloperIf you’re looking for the express lane to becoming a social pariah this is the best place to start. Boracay in the Philippines, Honolulu in Hawaii, The Bukit peninsular of Bali – The list of once dreamlike locations that fell victim to a lethal combo of questionable local leadership, entrepreneurs for whom ‘enough’ is an alien concept, and goose1tourists who feel entitled to their ‘slice of paradise’ goes on and on. While the majority of visitors see the beaches, sunsets, wildlife and stunning beauty of Nosara as the ultimate reflection of the amazing planet we call home, a minority look at the same natural beauty with a dollar sign attached to it. It’s only natural that visitors to Nosara become enchanted by it’s inherent magic. However it might befit us all to remain mindful of Aesops famed Ancient Greek fable that spoke of another naturally occurring magical wonder: A goose that laid golden eggs – Ring any bells?

Remedy: 

If you have the money to throw around, throw it at charitable causes such as local wildlife and education.

Sunset Peak – One more reason Nosara is first choice for retreat organizers

Sunset Peak is currently for sale. Click this link to view the 
listing

SPKAs Nosara further cements it’s position as one of Central Americas leading holistic hotspots it’s no surprise that the local retreat centers are taking a precedent setting number of reservations. Whether it be yoga, surf, health and fitness, or conferences and weddings, rest assured that there’s a place in Nosara which has you covered. Well now there’s a new kid on the block and if early reports are any indication it’s already set to be one of the local retreat industry forerunners.

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SPJ SPL

SPPOne year ago, after prospective buyer Luis Davila saw the practically limitless potential of the property now known as Sunset Peak he immediately knew he’d discovered a place, that with the correct nurturing could soar above and beyond the competition. After signing on the dotted line with full confidence that a little tender loving care was all that was needed to awaken the latent possibilities inherent in this stunning property, he went from prospective buyer to proud new owner. “In a place as SPQincredible as Nosara you don’t have to search too far to find bliss, particularly when many of your clients are traveling from places where constant sunshine, warm breezes, perfect waves and natural beauty aren’t as abundant as they are in Nosara” said Luis. “But there are certain places to stay around the world where the management mission statement is to take guests beyond bliss. The level of customer service needed to achieve this is immense, however just as important is the location. As soon as I saw Sunset Peak I knew that having this as a location for a multipurpose retreat center was a no brainer.”

SPMOne Glimpse from the Rancho at the edge of Sunset Peak’s expansive outer Terrace is enough to appreciate what Luis was thinking. Set back from the huge pool, and scattered with native wood furnishings it serves as the perfect place for anything from a yoga class, to a dining location unparalleled for treating guests to the sublime light show of a Pacific Sunset.

SPOThe 2 acres on which Sunset Peak sits comprises a large main house with 4 bedrooms, and a second living area with 2 bedrooms. Sunset Peak can comfortably accommodate up to 15 guests. As well as being perfect for retreat groups, Sunset Peak is also available as a vacation rental. For more information check out the new website, or contact Nosara Real Estate Report.

SPJSPISPESPDSPCSPOSPNSPHSPGSPF

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tennis is now a true lifestyle option at 506

cIts no secret that in addition to yoga and surfing Costa Rica offers an immense range of outdoor activities to get the heart racing. In a country where you can find fun ways to exercise at every turn it comes as no surprise that tennis in Costa Rica is proving such a hit, and spearheading this surge in popularity is the town of Nosara. While this may seem a bold statement one need look no further than the fact that in a town so small there now exists three separate areas housing tennis courts. In 2008 there were only 3 tennis courts in Nicoya, 2 in dTamarindo and a small number of others in private residences scattered around the Guanacaste peninsular. It is courtesy of Club Colibri, Nosara Tennis club and the continuous improvements being made at the 506 community development that only six years later Nosara has more courts than any other town on the Guanacaste peninsular. In a town famed primarily for surfing and yoga one man is confident enough in the future of Nosara as a Central American tennis mecca to put his money where his mouth is.

aIn the three years since North Carolina expat Sam Carver broke ground on the 506 tennis development it’s already played host to a Costa Rican national doubles final and the Costa Rican equivalent of the Davies cup. In addition to attracting high level coaching clinics from the United States 506 has made significant moves to encourage local talent, and now holds regular clinics specifically aimed at grooming local youngsters into serious competitors. “I always knew there were kids in Costa rica who would be great at tennis if they were given the opportunity” says Sam. “We now run affordable clinics for 7-9 and 9-11 year old local kids. bIt’s very exciting to see this really becoming part of the community and it’s encouraging that it’s got so popular in such a short time. Three years ago we had a big field and a plan to build two tennis courts and develop it from there. 3 years later we’ve got 3 tennis courts and we have the condo project.”

gWhile 506 is helping youngsters realize dreams of tennis stardom, the ‘condo project’ Sam is referring to is helping people to realize another dream – owning a great coastal property at an affordable price. The Hidden Palms condos are a mere 30 second walk from the tennis courts, and if any further proof was required that this place was truly a tennis flovers dream, one need simply check out the tennis court shaped swimming pool around which the condos have been created. “The condos are something for people who love tennis, who love Costa Rica and who want to invest in a community they can enjoy for the rest of their lives” says Sam. “This week we’ve had people staying from Australia, Chile, Greece, France, Argentina and Costa Rica. eThere’s a really eclectic international mix of people brought together by a simple love of tennis. Eventually there will be a total of 12 condos all of which represent a great option for those looking to live here, retire here, generate rental income or just visit for a fantastic vacation in paradise.”

kSo if you’re a tennis lover, yogi, surfer or just someone searching for an opportunity to own a slice of paradise at a price that doesn’t break the bank, a viewing of the Hidden Palms development should be at the top of your to-do list. For more information on how to be a part of this exciting new project contact us now.

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