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

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 Estate fit for royalty – Price Slashed by One Million Dollars

Click here to go directly to the Villa San Juan listing.
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Best views in Guanacaste from the infinity pool

Whether to park money in a solid asset via land banking, to build a retirement or vacation home in a dream location, or to be able to enjoy the sense of freedom that ownership of your own environment affords, people buy land for a whole variety of different reasons. Land ownership, particularly in Costa Rica is easy. And while it may not bring in the monthly income of building ownership, smart investors know that with the right purchase they can make the same kind of money through appreciation without having to deal with tenants, leaky roofs, burst pipes and hundreds of other issues attached to owning buildings. Vacant land involves none of these things. You buy it, it sits there, it’s well behaved, and nothing happens (other than the value changing over time.) When it comes to land purchase choices are as varied as home buying, often more so. There’s wet land, dry land, farm land, elevated land, coastal land, and then,,,,,,there’s this. While reading keep in mind that the motivated seller has just slashed the price by $3,5,000,000 to $2,500,000, a saving of ONE MILLION DOLLARS!

The San Juan Estate Centerpiece

The San Juan Estate Centerpiece

In the San Juan mountain area of Nosara lies more than 43 sprawling acres of pristine Costa Rican jungle where the breezes are cool, the flora and fauna are as abundant as the bountiful fruit trees, and the views make the word ‘spectacular’ seem woefully substandard. Accessible from Nosara, Playa Guiones or Garza the road leading to it ascends into a different world. Despite San Juan Villa’s 13000ft of construction, the property itself cannot be seen from the road. The first glimpse of San Juan estate is the large twin gate pillars. It’s not until visitors go through the gate and pass the helipad and fully functioning farm that the true majesty of this property becomes apparent.

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Pool house and infinity pool

Imagine waking up in a sublimely tranquil environment where your only neighbors are the howler monkeys swinging on the vines of your own private forest. Imagine then spending the day hiking through jungle trails with rainforest surprises at every turn, or walking on the beach, and then returning home to your private estate where the kind of mansion that most can only dream of awaits. Native Chorotega art and sculptures, a cigar room and wine cellar, fountains, 15 ft high wrought iron doors, stained glass, concrete pillars, pool table, suite style bedrooms with walk in closets and outdoor terraces, private restaurant area with wood burning brick oven, organic fruit orchards,
helipad, and a 50,000 gallon infinity pool with a 2 bed, 2 bath pool house that is practically a mansion of it’s own, all encompassed within a property perched on the summit of San Juan Mountain.

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In simple terms this property is nothing short of a masterpiece. With it’s own well and water system it is practically off grid and would be perfectly suited to movie stars, musicians, pro athletes, artists, or any nature lover with a burning desire to live an undisturbed life of quietude and tropical opulence. This property has recently undergone major renovations and is in pristine condition. The incredible aspects and features of Villa San Juan go on and on. For more information click here. To jump to the listing click here.

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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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If You’re a Family with Kids Attending Nosara Schools Then We Have The House For You

When it comes to the type of Nosara property that people wish to call home every person has unique needs. When searching for real estate older couples will have very different search parameters than families with children. Traditionally, the factors that make certain properties attractive have included lifestyle and age, however in recent years the demographic of people looking to purchase Nosara real estate has been heavily swayed by one thing – family structure. Many expat families have chosen to make Nosara their home for a multitude of reasons. However ask any of these families whats at the top of their list the answer often comes down to one thing – schools. The calibre of expat schooling in nosara has long been a huge draw for families from all over the world seeking to relocate. When shopping for Nosara real estate, families with children often require a balance between quiet, safety, and an area in which there is plenty of space for the kids to be kids. With this in mind the Nosara Real Estate Report has researched the leading factors that make a property desirable for families in Nosara with children looking to attend local schools.

 Close to Schools

How often have you read a real estate listing that features the phrase “close to schools” when listing the homes attributes? A home located close to a school has long been considered a huge plus, particularly for parents who don’t wish to spend their days playing taxi driver. In addition to kids being able to walk to and from school, one of the many benefits with some of the Nosara schools is that the kids are close to areas such as fields and sports arenas to enjoy on the weekends.

6This is a cozy, move in ready home near Del Mar Academy school with a community center and pool. This house sits on a large lot allowing for a bigger family home in the future. This place is perfect for guests, family or rental income. Click here to view this listing or here to contact us about this property.

9A building lot,  1/2 acre,  flat and ready for building in the eco community of Nosara Springs..  priced well below market for a quick sale at $44,000.    Best available affordable lot in Nosara.    Faces Playa Ponies so for a family who wants to be around equestrian this is a bulls eye location to build a home and own or rent horses. Click here to view this listing or here to contact us about this property.

Ability to runaround and play

Parents always want a space for their children to be able to play. Although Nosara has an abundance of open spaces parents often see a safe, fenced in yard or garden in which their children can run around as a huge plus when purchasing a property.

1This property sits on Las Huacas,   surrounded by other families and mostly full time residents living harmoniously away from the dust and tourists.   The large 2/3 acre lot makes the perfect playground. This home is  fully fenced in and offers ultimate privacy.   The motivated seller recently reduced the price,  motivated seller. Click here to see this listing, or here to contact us about this property.

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Imagine waking up to ocean views, from the tropical comfort of a monkey sanctuary. Gated, tranquil, and with the biggest playground ever SIBU Monkey Sanctuary represents a dream lifestyle for the right family.    1-1/4 acre lots ranging from $179k to $269k. Click here to view this listing or here to contact us about this property.

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For the higher budgeted families we have an equestrian center for sale in K section that would be a dream come true for horse lovers. It comes with a huge lap pool and and a tennis court. Click here to view this listing or here to contact us about this property.

Quiet Street

Urban planning, much to the joy of many residents is not one of Nosaras strong points, however the real estate market features a few examples of properties on peaceful streets in areas with a strong sense of community.

5School proximity,  walk the kids to Del Mar Academy,  gated community,  shared pool and a great little community of families with kids.   Prices range from our FIRE SALE 2 bedroom at $159,000 to a 3 bedroom for $279,000. Click here to view this listing or here to contact us about this property.

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The Colony at Nosara is an amazing collection of beautifully rustic yet state of the art homes in a Costa Rican Jungle setting. These houses are private, secure, set on enough land for kids to be able to play to their hearts content and are a must see for anyone seeking serene seclusion in a great location. Click here to view this listing or here to contact us about this property.

 Close to beach

For those unfamiliar with the joys of beachside living this may be difficult to understand. But the lucky ones who do live by the beach will attest to the fact that the quality of life it provides is invaluable for both the parents and the children.

2This is a classic family home with a master bedroom on one side,  and 2 bedrooms on the other side of the open concept, cathedral teak ceiling house.   Great pool and perfect sized yard for the kids to play only steps from the beach. Click here to see this listing or here to contact us about this property.

8These are open concept, 2 bedroom beachfront condo’s with over sized balconies, a great pool and as close to the beach as Costa Rican law permits. Click here to view this listing or here to contact us about this property.

Understanding Administrative Warnings in Nosara Real Estate

Sigue abajo para versión en Espanol.

The “Beaches of Nosara” project has a long and colorful history. The Nosara we see today is a far cry from the initial vision of property developer Alan D. Hutchison when he first purchased a swath of land in Guanacaste in the 1960s.

When Mr. Hutchinson and his team first began developing the Beaches of Nosara project, there was no automated system in place for tracking land purchases and sales. Since that time, property boundary survey technology has evolved exponentially. With the advent of GPS systems, modern engineering techniques, and computerization, some major land ownership discrepancies have come to light. These discrepancies are causing confusion, finger pointing, anger and frustration among local property owners, leading to a multi-year investigation by the Registro Nacional.

The Registro, having been compelled in 2008 to investigate claims of irregularities in property sales and titles impacting 86 specific properties and 90 plans, and then forced again in 2010 to continue the same investigation, had caused widespread delays and a near total freeze on new plans being issued in certain parts of Guiones and Pelada.

In March 2015, the Registro further upped the ante by placing annotations on 533 fincas (properties) in the area, and in April 2015 followed up with annotations on 560 planos (property surveys) and 5 additional fincas. What should be noted, is that most annotations issued in 2015 concern property that have never been implicated in any land dispute.

Charged with protecting the public interest, the Registro Nacional instead has issued blanket orders that impact many landowners in the Nosara area. Whether they are washing their hands of the responsibility for fixing the situation by moving the process for potential resolutions into the legal system and out of the Registro’s domain, or are issuing blanket orders for some other reason, the fact is that now predictable chaos has ensued.

A Short History of the Development of the Beaches of Nosara Project

It is impossible to understand the current situation without understanding something of the projects history. As noted above, the Beaches of Nosara Project started as the vision of one developer, Mr. Alan D. Hutchison. Once he left the area, what was left of the development corporation he had created, Inversiones Nicoya, S.A. (“INSA”) was sued by the original group of Playa Guiones land buyers. Supposedly, the buyers alleged that INSA had failed to deliver on their contractual obligations. In an apparent response to this lawsuit, and presumably to pacify the plaintiffs, a complex and nefarious solution is said to have been engineered – the plaintiffs were given title to property that had been transposed from Finca 7302 (presumably owned by INSA) onto Finca 24113-B. The benefactors of this settlement – including the Nosara Civic Association – have for years fought tooth and nail against Richmond Phipps, in her capacity as president of Custodia de Propiedades Guanacastecas, S.A. the corporation that holds Finca 24113-B. And now, with the Registro’s most recent actions, it appears further that the individuals who were defrauded in the INSA settlement, and those who subsequently purchased land from INSA after Hutchinson had left, represent a microcosm of the many Nosara residents who have been sold lots in the Nosara area with dubious title. It seems all of us now are in a similar world of hurt, victims of an unsophisticated and quite possibly corrupt land registration process and the double-dealing of some original developers and their successors.

The Custodia Legal Proceeding

The history of the Custodia legal proceeding is inextricably linked to the history of the company’s late president, Richmond Phipps. Soon after her arrival in Costa Rica, Ms. Phipps became the general manager for the Beaches of Nosara development from 1969-1972. Separate from her work for Mr. Hutchinson, in 1988 she purchased the property Finca 24113-B from her colleague Dick Amack (who sadly passed away on May 4, 2015). Custodia de Propiedades Guanacastecas, S.A, the company that holds finca 24113-B, was one of the original fincas that comprised the Beaches of Nosara development, minus a group of properties that were segregated and titled on June 21, 1975. From 1975 to this day, there have been no additional authorized segregations from or modifications to Finca 24113-B, which measures 229+ Hectares, or 2.2 million square meters.

Soon after acquiring the property, Ms. Phipps – like many of her peers – discovered that portions of her land were being claimed and/or used by unauthorized parties. The Registro Nacional confirmed that on paper Ms. Phipps still held title to 229+ Hectares, so it was obvious that something was very, very wrong. After years of studies and forensic investigations, it ultimately was revealed that almost 86 specific properties and 90 plansthat allegedly were physically located inside of Finca 24113-B in fact had been segregated from Finca 7302 – which is in a different location. Finca 7302 also was part of the original Beaches of Nosara Development, and shares a boundary with 24113-B. The boundaries of both Finca 7302 and 24113-B as they existed in 1970 when the project was created can be seen in the following image:

1970 boundary of Finca 7302 in yellow, Finca 24113-B in Green.

1970 boundary of Finca 7302 in yellow, Finca 24113-B in Green.

How can close to 86 properties and 90 plans exist outside of the area they supposedly were segregated from, and inside of someone else’s property lines? The simple answer is that they can’t. For years, Ms. Phipps maintained that any property owner who held title to these “traslapes” (which translates to “transposed lots”) had been defrauded. In an interview given to the Voice of Nosara in May of 2010, she stated:

“They paid money for a piece of paper … they may own land, but they don’t own that land. They may have duly registered titles, but not to that land. … They have been defrauded.”

To those unfamiliar with the situation, this statement could be confusing and seemingly incomplete – but with further explanation, the truth behind the statement becomes clear: those who hold title to the transposed properties were led to believe that the property they bought was in one location, when in fact it had been segregated from a different finca in a different location. This was confirmed when the exact boundaries of the original fincas location per planos in 1970 were identified through an exhaustive investigation by the OIJ Department of Forensic Geography. After it had been proved that the properties in question indeed had been transposed from another finca, Ms. Phipps in her capacity as president of Custodia, requested a legal process known as “sanamiento catastral” – essentially asking the Registro Nacional to fix the known problems and cleanse title for Custodia’s property and Custodia’s property alone, and in particular with regard to 86 properties and 90 plans where one physical location seemingly had two rightful property owners.

The Registro Nacional’s Reaction

Ms. Phipps, on behalf of Custodia, petitioned for “sanamiento catastral” in 2008 (exp. 099-2008) following a government decree* that any individual who felt potentially harmed and their property titles in question could petition for clearing of their titles. After misplacing the Custodia petition, two years later the Registro was compelled to continue the same investigation, which they renamed (exp. 2010-0336-RIM). Once work was completed by Ing. Roberto Segura González published in March 2013, the Registro’s findings were finally published in November 2014 by Lic. Guillermo Rodríguez Rodríquez (RIM-CCT-CT-62-2014), in a confusing and somewhat contradictory 217 page document.  The findings verified the problems Ms. Phipps had been describing with overlaps and transposed lots inside of Custodia and Finca 24113-B.  The findings also unearthed supposedly similar problems all over the area, completely outside the boundaries of Custodia.  Subsequently in 2015, the Director of the Registro Nacional, M.Sc. Óscar Rodríguez Sánchez, has to date issued 538 new annotations on fincas and 560 new annotations on planos related to properties stretching from Pelada to Esperanza – all now deemed by the Registro Nacional to have irregularities in their property surveys.

*Decreto Ejecutivo published en La Gaceta October 3, 2007, number 33982 of 08 – 08 – 2007, Reglamento al Articulo 30 de la ley de Catastro numero 6545 del 25 de marzo de 1981

In a strange turn of events, the Registro has also concluded that the boundaries of finca 7302 from 1970 were created in a manner inconsistent with the proper legal process, and because of this, have defaulted the boundaries of 7302 to the recognized location of the plano in 1945. This has caused massive parts of properties in Playa Pelada to appear to exist outside of the property they were segregated from, since the segregations were supposed to be based on the position in 1970, and not 1945. Additionally, this means that finca 7302 runs from North to South, 1 Kilometer inland from the beach, and has massive overlap with 24113-B from 1970, which was properly titled through the process of “informacion possesora”.

Thev 2015 annotations have been done completely on the Registro’s own initiative and without the knowledge of anyone associated with the Custodia legal proceedings and the majority have nothing to do with the annotations placed on properties that overlap or exist inside of Finca 24113-B. On top of that, multiple petitions over the last several years, including most recently on April 24, 2015, have been filed with the Registro on behalf of Custodia demanding that all annotations be immediately removed that do not overlap with Finca 24113-B. The problem with titling of Nosara properties is not just a Custodia problem now – it’s everyone’s problem.

What Do We Do Now?

This mess has pitted community members against one another, each thinking that the opposing side is the enemy, when in fact the individuals responsible for creating the problem are long gone. Years have gone by, axes have been ground, mud has been flung, and tempers have flared – yet anyone willing to take the time to look at the evidence ultimately will have little choice but to conclude that much of the blame has been misdirected. As it turns out, all “sides” in these real estate disputes have the same problem – a problem that only can be resolved by unified efforts to clear title in the Beaches of Nosara area once and for all.

With new information, it now seems clear that the problems Custodia has are the same problems all other property owners with annotations now have – the Registro Nacional appears to have allowed fraud and confusion to occur in titling of Beaches of Nosara property, and has not been forthcoming in assisting with resolving the resulting problems. As a result of Ms. Phipps’ presentation of evidence about this situation in court, Custodia and the Registro are far along in ongoing legal proceedings in the “Contensioso” Court to solve the titling problems as they relate to Custodia and Finca 24113-B. While the process of trying to address improper titling with regard to Custodias properties has been lengthy and often contentious, now that hard evidence has been presented in the courts that verifies the accuracy of Custodia’s claims, the Registro finally is having to face up to its longstanding issues. At this time, more than ever, it is important to recognize that those who seemingly have been on opposite sides of land disputes all are victims of the failure of the land registry system. All will benefit from the Registro Nacional being held accountable in court; and it is hard to imagine how the current real estate quandaries in Beaches of Nosara will be resolved until that happens.

What Does it Mean if I Have an “Advertencia Administrativa” (Annotation) of My Property?

If an annotation has been placed on your property, it means that your property has been flagged by the Registro due to irregularities in the original survey map. This means one of four things:

  • Has an overlap with a neighboring property
  • Has an overlap with a protected area (including Maritime Terrestrial Zone)
  • Exists in an area outside of the finca madre (mother finca or mother property) it came from (meaning, it should not exist where it currently does, because the property it was subdivided from exists in a different location).
  • Was subdivided from a finca madre (mother farm or mother property) that did not exist legally in the area from which a surveyor thought it was located when the lot was segregated and titled.

For example, in cases of properties that exist inside of Finca 24113-B (the Custodia property), it is possible that you have been led to believe that you own property within the Custodia finca which actually was segregated from a different property in a different location.You own property inside of someone else’s property, that came from somewhere else.

Properties that were annotated in 2015 have to be looked at on a case by case basis because most have nothing to do with Custodia. It could mean that your property overlaps with a neighboring property, and needs rectification, lies within the Maritime Zone, or lies in an area of 7302 per the 1970 boundaries, that is not recognized by the Registro as the legal delimitations, which they consider to be the boundaries from 1945.

For any property with an annotation, you cannot change, alter, update, subdivide or create new planos from your current plano. Any process involving the property survey of your property is frozen. You are, however, still able to own your property, use it, build on it, and own it in good faith. You may sell your property and transfer title as well.


**UPDATE May 21 2015 2PM ** – According to legal sources, any property with an annotation that is not involved in a double title dispute (those in conflict with 24113-B) can still be purchased with proper investigation.  Each must be looked at on a case by case basis.

The advertencia is just a “warning” that it is under investigation. Since large parts of the area of Guiones and Pelada are under investigation stemming from the problems inside of 24113-B, the warning may encompass large areas of property that have no problems and no dispute, and are simply “marked”. 

Properties with annotations outside of 24113-B have no dispute of ownership or possession.***

Most of the newly annotated properties were included in the warning because of inaccuracies in the history of the area’s “mother” properties. These problems date back to the 1970’s and the Public Registry considered important to annotate certain subdivisions as a cautionary measure. This does not imply a conflict with the actual onsite location of such properties.***

Pursuant to Costa Rican Law, the only legal effect of an Administrative Warning is to communicate to third parties that an administrative procedure concerning the property has been initiated. They do not impede selling, transferring or encumbering the annotated property.***

The Administrative Warning does not have an effect on property or possession rights; therefore, the owner will be entitled to use and enjoy the property, thus being able to transform the terrain and build on it. The owner can take legal actions in the event that a Government Office denies those rights based solely on the property being affected by an Administrative Warning.*** 

*** Credit Sfera Legal***


According to the Registry, in order to clear your property, you must go to court and have a judge sign off on your ownership, and instruct the Registro to remove the annotation; however, the exact process to be followed is still uncertain. It seems that you will be receiving official notice from the Registro regarding the reason why the annotation was put on your property.

The Registro Nacional has stated they only have one option left they have not elected to use, as of yet – that is to freeze title on all annotated property so they cannot legally be transferred to a buyer or new owner, thus removing any future liabilities that arrive from these problems. This nuclear option, if elected, means anyone who holds title to a property with the annotation would not be able to transfer title of property until the case is settled in court. The Registry does not know if they will need to freeze these properties, but it is for certain an option they have, and within their legal ability to do so, although highly unlikely.

How Does This Impact the Beaches of Nosara Real Estate Market?

Annotations on properties likely will be a point of concern for any buyer or seller. It is possible that any buyer who wishes to purchase a property with the annotation, can execute a contract to purchase stating that the contingency of having the annotation must be solved prior to the sale being executed. However, the exact method of removing annotation via the judicial branch is still unclear.

Given the substantial number of properties that have been hit with annotations, these developments will of course affect the Nosara real estate market for the time being. In light of the fact that no one knows how or when this issue will be resolved, annotation free properties may dramatically increase in value in the short term.

Is there any good news to report?

Yes; the Registry has been extremely cautious in issuing any new planos in the entire area of Nosara, Playa Guiones, Playa Pelada for the last few years. It appears that now, they will allow new planos and subdivisions in the areas that are free of conflict and do not have annotations. This is a relief for some property owners who have waited years to try and segregate properties or create new, GPS accurate planos.  We expect that for any properties that do not have annotations, the values may see a significant rise over the next 6-12 months.

The other good news in all of this is if and when property owners who have questions about titling petition the registro or petition through the legal system for clean title, once done, it will be done for good.

Am I the Only One Who is Confused by All This?

No. Everyone is confused by this. In fact, many people who have been here for 5, 10, or even 20 years remain unaware of the problems that exist and are unsure what the annotations actually mean. This is not something easily understood and there is a mountain of court documents, legal and technical studies which are available as public information for those that want to read through it themselves. Ms. Phipps always was willing and glad to provide her documentation – amassed over decades of legal wrangling – for anyone to review; as she liked to say to those who didn’t believe what she was telling them: “Jump on in, the water is warm.”

Richmond Phipps died on February 3, 2015, just a few days after her 80th birthday. Having devoted the last twenty years of her life to trying to clear her land titles in the Nosara area, she ultimately died without seeing this mess resolved. Her daughter, Brooke Shields, who grew up in Costa Rica and speaks fluent Spanish, is now responsible for Custodia. Such complexity is nothing new to Brooke, given her long professional career as a business executive. Further, having watched the Beaches of Nosara project grow and change since its inception – and then watched her mother’s seemingly endless battle to protect the integrity of property titles in the area – provides Brooke with a unique perspective and depth of insight into what she is facing.

Ms. Shields is not interested in reliving the past, and has no investment in past feuds and controversies. She is looking to the future, and seeking solutions. As she says:

“I am not in the least bit interested in carrying on with finger pointing and accusations of the past; my eyes are on the future.  My only goal is to establish clear title for Custodia and Finca 24113-B, nothing more.  This is what my mother wanted – to fix the issues impeding her ability to enjoy her own property.  And who wouldn’t want that?  The Registro’s current approach is baffling and upsetting on many fronts, with the majority of new annotations placed on properties that have nothing whatsoever to do with the Custodia legal proceedings. Individuals do not have the power to place or remove annotations on properties – only the Registro can do that.  The Registro’s latest actions have been done on their own initiative, for reasons only they can explain. I invite any other property owners who are facing issues with their properties to join me in demanding that the Registro be accountable to the public they serve, assisting all property owners with legal certainty, and in transacting business in a clean and transparent manner.”

So How Does This Saga End?

In short – no one knows! There is no way to predict how long it will take to sort out the mess that the Registro Nacional has allowed. As of the current date, it is not known what specific legal process or judicial actions will fix and remove the current annotations. As this case moves forward and more information is released by the Registro, we will do our best to report and update this story. For the time being, we have property survey experts and legal teams studying the complexities of the report issued by the Registro – in an effort to fully and completely understand these issues. We feel confident that anyone who needs questions answered or properties analyzed should feel comfortable in contacting us for help and advice. Please contact us at info@nosararealestatereport.com to discuss your property and we will do our best to give you advice. We will continue to update this story as it progresses, and hope that this will be resolved in a fair and timely manner. These issues must be resolved as the stability and faith of the real estate market in Nosara is dependent on a system of good faith; faith in the Costa Rica government, and faith in the Registro Nacional, the basis of land ownership in Costa Rica.

 

Como Entender Advertencias Administrativas de Bienes Inmuebles en Nosara

 

El proyecto “Playas de Nosara” tiene una historia larga y lleno de color. El Nosara que vemos hoy dista mucho de la versión inicial del desarrollador inmobiliario Alan D. Hutchison, cuando compró primero una franja de tierra en Guanacaste en los años 60.

Cuando el Sr. Hutchinson y su equipo comenzaron a desarrollar primero el Proyecto Playas de Nosara, no existía ni se usaba entonces un sistema automatizado para registrar las compras y ventas de terrenos. Desde entonces, la tecnología para el estudio de límites de propiedad ha evolucionado exponencialmente. Con la aparición de los sistemas GPS, las técnicas modernas de ingeniería y sistematización, han salido a la luz algunas discrepancias serias sobre la  propiedad de la tierra. Estas discrepancias están causando confusión, acusaciones, ira y frustración entre los propietarios locales de las propiedades, lo cual ha propiciado una larga investigación de años por parte del Registro Nacional.

Al haber sido obligado en el 2008 a investigar denuncias de irregularidades en las ventas y títulos de propiedades que afectaron a 86 propiedades específicas y 90 planos, y luego al verse forzado a continuar la misma investigación en el 2010, el Registro provocó una demora generalizada y un casi congelamiento total de los nuevos planos lanzados en ciertas partes de Guiones y Pelada.

En marzo del 2015, el Registro fue más allá al emitir advertencias administrativas a 533 fincas (propiedades) del área, y en abril del 2015 hizo seguimiento a advertencias administrativas sobre 560 planos (catastro) y 5 fincas adicionales. Lo que debe observarse es que muchas de las advertencias administrativas emitidas en el 2015 se refieren a propiedades que nunca han estado implicadas en ninguna disputa de tierras.

Por su parte, responsable por proteger el interés público, el Registro Nacional ha emitido órdenes de compra abierta que están teniendo un fuerte impacto negativo sobre muchos propietarios de terrenos en el área de Nosara. Si están lavándose las manos de la responsabilidad de solucionar la situación trasladando el proceso de resoluciones potenciales al sistema legal y fuera del dominio del Registro, o si están emitiendo órdenes de compra abierta por alguna otra razón, el hecho es que ahora sigue un caos predecible.

Breve Historia del Desarrollo del Proyecto Playas de Nosara

Es imposible entender la situación actual sin conocer algo de la historia de los proyectos. Como se ha mencionado líneas arriba, el Proyecto Playas de Nosara comenzó como la visión de un desarrollador, el Sr. Alan D. Hutchison. Una vez que él dejó el área, lo que quedó de la corporación de desarrollo que él había creado, Inversiones Nicoya, S.A. (“INSA”) fue demandado por el grupo original de compradores de terrenos de Playa Guiones. Supuestamente, los compradores argumentaron que INSA había incumplido sus obligaciones contractuales. En respuesta aparente a este juicio, y presumiblemente para apaciguar a los demandantes, se dice que se había maquinado una solución compleja y nefasta – se entregó a los demandantes el título de propiedad que había sido trastocado de la Finca 7302 (se presume de propiedad de INSA) a la Finca 24113-B. Los benefactores de este acuerdo – incluyendo la Asociación Cívica Nosara– han peleado con uñas y dientes durante años contra Richmond Phipps, presidente de Custodia de Propiedades Guanacastecas, S.A., la corporación dueña de Finca 24113-B. Y ahora, con las recientes acciones del Registro, más parece que las personas que fueron estafadas en el acuerdo INSA, y aquellos que posteriormente compraron terrenos de INSA después de que Hutchinson saliera, representan un microcosmos de los muchos residentes de Nosara que han vendido lotes en el área de Nosara con títulos dudosos. Ahora parece que todos nosotros estamos en un mundo similar de perjuicio, víctimas de un proceso de registro de tierras poco sofisticado y muy posiblemente corrupto y el doble juego de algunos desarrolladores originales y sus sucesores.

El Procedimento Legal Custodia

La historia del procedimiento legal Custodia está intrínsecamente ligado a la historia del difunto presidente de la compañía, Richmond Phipps. Inmediatamente después de llegar a Costa Rica, la Sra. Phipps se convirtió en gerente general del proyecto Playas de Nosara, de 1969 a 1972. De manera independiente a su trabajo para el Sr. Hutchinson, en 1988 ella compró a su colega Dick Amack (quien lamentablemente falleció el 4 de mayo del 2015) la propiedad Finca 24113-B. Custodia de Propiedades Guanacastecas, S.A., la compañía propietaria de Finca 24113-B, era una de las fincas originales que formaban parte del proyecto de desarrollo Playas de Nosara, con excepción de un grupo de propiedades que fueron independizadas y con título de propiedad obtenido el 21 de junio de 1975. Desde 1975 hasta el día de hoy, no se realizaron segregaciones autorizadas adicionales o modificaciones a la 24113-B, cuya área es 229+ hectáreas o 2,2 millones de metros cuadrados.

Inmediatamente después de comprar la propiedad, la Sra. Phipps – al igual que muchos de sus pares – descubrió que diversas parcelas de su terreno estaban siendo reclamadas y / o usadas por terceros no autorizados. El Registro Nacional confirmó por escrito que la Sra. Phipps aún era la propietaria de 229+ hectáreas, de modo que era obvio que algo andaba terriblemente mal. Después de años de estudios e investigaciones forenses, finalmente se reveló que casi 86 propiedades individuales y 90 planos que supuestamente estaban ubicados físicamente dentro de la Finca 24113-B, de hecho habían sido independizadas de la Finca 7302 – que está en una ubicación diferente. La Finca 7302 también formaba parte original del Proyecto Playas de Nosara, y comparte límites con 24113-B. En la siguiente imagen pueden observarse los límites tanto de la Finca 7302 y de la 24113-B tal como existían en 1970 cuando el proyecto fue creado:

¿Cómo es que 86 propiedades y 90 planos existan fuera del área de la cual fueron supuestamente segregadas y dentro de los límites de propiedad de terceros? La respuesta simple es que no pueden. Durante años, la Sra. Phipps sostuvo que todo propietario de terrenos con título de estas “superposiciones” (lo que se traduce como “lotes superpuestos”) había sido estafado. En una entrevista otorgada a la Voz de Nosara en mayo del 2010, ella afirmó:

“Ellos pagaron dinero por un pedazo de papel…ellos pueden poseer tierras, pero ellos no poseen esa tierra. Ellos probablemente tienen Títulos de Propiedad debidamente registrados, pero no para esa tierra. Han sido estafados.”

Para aquellos que no están familiarizados con la situación, esta afirmación podría ser confusa y aparentemente incompleta pero con una mayor explicación, la verdad detrás de esa afirmación se aclara: aquellas personas con títulos de las propiedades superpuestas fueron inducidos a creer que la propiedad que compraron estaba en un lugar, cuando de hecho, había sido independizada de una finca diferente en un lugar diferente. Esto llegó a confirmarse cuando se identificaron los límites exactos de las fincas originales según los planos de 1970, a raíz de una profunda investigación realizada por el Departamento de Ingeneria Forense OIJ. Después de que se había demostrado que las propiedades en cuestión de hecho habían sido superpuestas de otra finca, la Sra. Phipps, como presidente de Custodia, solicitó un procedimiento legal conocido como “saneamiento catastral” – solicitando esencialmente al Registro Nacional solucionar los problemas conocidos y sanear el título de la propiedad de Custodia y la propiedad de Custodia sola,  en particular con respecto a las 86 propiedades y 90 planos en donde un lugar físico tenía aparentemente dos propietarios reales.

La Reacción del Registro Nacional

La Sra. Phipps, en representación de Custodia, solicitó en el 2008 un “saneamiento catastral” (exp. 099-2008) a raíz de un decreto del estado * que establecía que cualquier persona que estuviera potencialmente perjudicada afectada al igual que los títulos de propiedad en cuestión podría solicitar  el saneamiento de sus títulos. Después de extraviar la petición de Custodia, dos años después el Registro fue obligado a continuar la misma investigación, a la que asignaron un nuevo número (exp. 2010-0336-RIM). Después de haber concluido y publicado el trabajo del Ing. Roberto Segura González en marzo del 2013, finalmente en noviembre del 2014 se publicaron las conclusiones del Registro en un documento algo confuso y contradictorio de 217 páginas, elaborado por el Lic. Guillermo Rodríguez Rodríquez (RIM-CCT-CT-62-2014).  Las conclusiones confirmaron los problemas que la Sra. Phipps había estado describiendo sobre las superposiciones y los lotes superpuestos dentro de Custodia y la Finca 24113-B.  Las conclusiones también desenterraron problemas supuestamente similares en toda el área, completamente fuera de los límites de Custodia.  Posteriormente en 2015, el Director del Registro Nacional, M.Sc. Óscar Rodríguez Sánchez, ha emitido hasta la fecha 538 nuevas advertencias administrativas a fincas y 560 nuevas advertencias administrativas a planos relacionados con propiedades que se extienden desde Pelada hasta Esperanza – todos ahora con irregularidades en el catastro de propiedad, según el Registro Nacional.

*Decreto Ejecutivo publicado en La Gaceta el 3 de octubre del 2007, número 33982 de 08 – 08 – 2007, Reglamento del Artículo 30 de la Ley de Catastro número 6545 del 25 de marzo de 1981.

En un extraño giro de los eventos, el Registro también ha llegado a la conclusión de que los límites de la finca 7302 que datan de 1970 fueron creados de manera incoherente con el debido proceso legal, y debido a esto, ha reemplazado los límites de 7302 por la ubicación reconocida del plano en 1945. Esto ha generado que aparezcan y existan muchas secciones de propiedades en Playa Pelada fuera de la propiedad de la que se independizaron, ya que se suponía que las independizaciones estuvieron basadas en la posición de 1970, y no la de 1945. Adicionalmente, esto significa que la Finca 7302 abarca de norte a sur, 1 kilómetro adentro desde la playa, y desde 1970 tiene una superposición masiva con 24113-B, lo que fue correctamente titulado a través del proceso de “información posesoria”.

La mayoríade las advertencias administrativas de 2015 han sido emitidas en su totalidad a iniciativa propia del Registro y sin el conocimiento de ninguna parte asociada con el procedimiento legal de Custodia y la mayoría no tienen ninguna relación con las advertencias administrativas emitidas sobre las propiedades que tienen superposición o existen dentro de la Finca 24113-B. Además de todo, en los últimos años se han presentado ante el Registro múltiples peticiones en representación de Custodia, incluyendo la más reciente del 24 de abril del 2015, demandando que todas las advertencias administrativas que no tengan superposición sobre la Finca 24113-B sean retiradas inmediatamente. El problema de los títulos de las propiedades de Nosara ahora no es solo un problema de Custodia– es un problema de todos.

¿Ahora Qué Hacemos?

Este desorden ha enfrentado a los miembros de la comunidad uno contra el otro, pensando cada uno que el lado opuesto es el enemigo, cuando de hecho las personas responsables por crear el problema ya se han ido. Los años han pasado, las hachas han sido clavadas, el lodo ha sido arrojado y los temperamentos han estallado – incluso los interesados en tomarse el tiempo para revisar la evidencia finalmente apenas tendrán oportunidad para concluir que gran parte de la responsabilidad ha sido mal direccionada. Como se sabe, todas las “partes” en estas disputas inmobiliarias tienen el mismo problema – un problema que solo puede ser resuelto uniendo esfuerzos para sanear los títulos en Playas de Nosara de una vez por todas.

Con información nueva, ahora parece quedar claro que los problemas que Custodia tiene son los mismos problemas que ahora tienen todos los otros propietarios con advertencias administrativas – al parecer el Registro Nacional ha permitido el fraude y la confusión al asignar los títulos de propiedad de Playas de Nosara, y no ha estado dispuesto para ayudar a resolver los problemas posteriores. Como resultado de la presentación de evidencia ante la corte por parte de la Sra. Phipps  respecto a esta situación, Custodia y el Registro se encuentran lejos de solucionar los problemas de titulación a través de los procedimientos legales continuos por el corte Contencioso ya que están vinculados con Custodia y la Finca 24113-B. Si bien el proceso de intentar abordar el tema de la titulación ilegal de las propiedades de Custodia ha sido prolongado y con frecuencia contencioso, ahora que se ha presentado evidencia sólida ante las cortes, la cual confirma la precisión de los reclamos de Custodia, el Registro finalmente tiene que enfrentar sus asuntos de larga data. Actualmente y más que nunca, es importante reconocer que aquellos que aparentemente han estado en lados opuestos de la disputa de tierras son todos víctimas de las fallas del sistema de registro de tierras. Todos se beneficiarán cuando el Registro Nacional rinda cuentas ante la justicia; y es difícil imaginar cómo es que se resolverá la problemática inmobiliaria actual en Playas de Nosara hasta que eso suceda.

¿Qué Significa Tener una “Advertencia Administrativa” sobre mi Propiedad?

Si se ha emitido una advertencia administrativa sobre su propiedad, significa que su propiedad ha sido identificada por el Registro debido a irregularidades en el mapa de catastro original. Esto significa una de las siguientes cuatro opciones:

  • Tiene una superposición con una propiedad vecina
  • Tiene una superposición con un área protegida (incluyendo la Zona Marítimo-Terrestre)
  • Existe en un área fuera de la finca madre (finca madre o propiedad madre) de la cual se originó (es decir, no debería existir en el lugar donde está ubicada actualmente porque la propiedad de la cual fue subdividida existe en una ubicación diferente).
  • Fue subdividida de una finca madre (finca madre o propiedad madre) que no existía legalmente en el área en la cual un técnico en catastro pensó que estaba ubicada cuando el lote fue independizado y titulado.

 

Por ejemplo, en los casos de propiedades que existen dentro de la Finca 24113-B (propiedad de Custodia), es posible que usted haya sido inducido a creer que usted tiene una propiedad dentro de la Finca Custodia, que realmente fue independizada de una propiedad diferente en una ubicación diferente. Usted tiene propiedad dentro de la propiedad de otra persona, que provino de otro lugar.

Las propiedades que han recibido advertencias administrativas en el 2015 tienen que ser estudiadas una por una porque la mayoría no tienen nada que ver con Custodia. Esto podría significar que su propiedad superpone a una propiedad vecina y requiere rectificación, se encuentra dentro de la Zona Marítima, o en un área de la 7302 de acuerdo con los límites de 1970, que no está reconocida por el Registro como límites legales, pues consideran como límites los de 1945.

Para cualquier propiedad con advertencia administrativa, usted no puede cambiar, alterar, actualizar, subdividir o crear nuevos planos de su plano actual. Cualquier proceso que involucre el catastro de su propiedad está congelado. Sin embargo, usted todavía puede poseer su propiedad, usufructuar, construir en ella y tener la posesión de ella de buena fe. También usted puede vender su propiedad y transferir el título.

De acuerdo con el Registro, con el fin de sanear su propiedad, usted debe presentarse ante la corte y solicitar a un juez que reconozca su propiedad, y dé instrucciones para que el Registro retire la advertencia administrativa; sin embargo, aún se desconoce el proceso exacto que debe seguirse. Al parecer, usted recibirá un aviso oficial del Registro sobre la razón por la cual se emitió una advertencia administrativa sobre su propiedad.

El Registro Nacional ha afirmado que solo les queda una opción a la que han decidido no recurrir, hasta ahora – que es congelar los títulos de todas las propiedades con advertencias administrativas de manera que no puedan ser transferidas legalmente a un comprador o a un nuevo propietario, evitando de esa manera cualquier responsabilidad futura que surja de estos problemas. Esta opción central, en caso de ser elegida, significa que nadie con un título de una propiedad con advertencia administrativa podrá transferir el título de la propiedad hasta que el caso sea resuelto judicialmente. El Registro no sabe si tendrá que congelar estas propiedades, pero es seguro que cuentan con esa opción y con la potestad de aplicarla.

 

¿Cómo es que Esto Afecta el Mercado Inmobiliario de Playas de Nosara?

 

Las advertencias administrativas sobre las propiedades serán posiblemente un tema que preocupará a cualquier comprador o vendedor. Hasta que el Registro Nacional no aclare el tema, nuestros asesores legales advierten que existe el riesgo de que se congelen las transferencias de los títulos de las propiedades con advertencias. Si bien actualmente éste no es el caso, estamos a la espera de más información para decidir la mejor manera de proceder con las transacciones inmobiliarias actuales y las del futuro cercano. Es posible que cualquier comprador que desee comprar una propiedad con advertencia pueda ejecutar un contrato de compra afirmando que la contingencia de tener una advertencia debe ser resuelta antes de que la venta sea ejecutada. Sin embargo, aún no queda claro cuál será el método preciso para retirar la advertencia por vía judicial.

 

Considerando el importante número de propiedades que han recibido advertencias, estos desarrollos, con certeza, afectarán mientras tanto al mercado inmobiliario de Nosara. A la luz del hecho de que nadie sabe cómo ni cuándo se resolverá este asunto, las propiedades sin advertencias aumentarán drásticamente de valor en el corto plazo. La mayoría de propiedades afectadas por las nuevas advertencias se encuentran fuera de Playa Guiones y dentro de Playa Pelada. Playa Pelada, que ha hecho decaer el floreciente mercado inmobiliario en Playa Guiones, será el golpe más duro causado por estas noticias.

 

¿Hay Buenas Noticias que Informar?

 

Sí; el Registro ha sido extremadamente cauteloso al emitir cualquier plano nuevo en toda el área de Nosara, Playa Guiones, Playa Pelada en los últimos años. Parece que ahora, se permitirán nuevos planos y subdivisiones en las áreas que están libres de conflicto y que no tienen advertencias. Esto representa un alivio para algunos propietarios que han esperado años para intentar independizar las propiedades o crear planos nuevos y exactos con GPS. Esperamos que para algunas propiedades ubicadas fuera del área de conflicto, los valores puedan tener un alza significativa durante los siguientes 6 a 12 meses.

 

La otra buena noticia en todo esto es si y cuando los propietarios con dudas sobre las peticiones de titulación ante el registro o peticiones mediante el sistema legal para sanear el título de propiedad, una vez resueltas, serán de manera definitiva.

 

¿Soy el Único Confundido con Todo Esto?

 

No. Todos están confundidos con esto. De hecho, muchas personas que han estado aquí por 5, 10 o incluso 20 años continúan sin conocer los problemas que existen y no están seguros de lo que realmente significa una advertencia administrativa. Esto no es algo fácil de entender y hay una montaña de documentos, estudios legales y técnicos disponibles como información pública para aquellos que quieren conocerla por sí mismos. La Sra. Phipps siempre estuvo interesada y dispuesta a proporcionar su documentación – acumulada durante décadas de disputas legales – a quien quisiera revisarla; como a ella le gustaba decir a quienes no creían lo que ella contaba: “Lánzate, el agua está tibia.”

 

Richmond Phipps murió el 3 de febrero del 2015, apenas pocos días después de cumplir 80 años. Habiendo dedicado los últimos veinte años de su vida intentando sanear sus títulos de propiedad en el área de Nosara, ella finalmente murió sin ver el problema resuelto. Su hija, Brooke Shields, que creció en Costa Rica y habla español fluidamente, ahora es responsable de Custodia. Dicha complejidad no es nada nueva para Brooke, considerando su larga carrera profesional como ejecutiva de negocios. Además, haber visto crecer el proyecto Playas de Nosara y cambiar desde que fue concebido – y luego haber visto la batalla aparentemente interminable de su madre para proteger la integridad de los títulos de propiedad en el área – le brinda a Brooke una perspectiva única y un conocimiento profundo de lo que está enfrentando.

 

La Sra. Shields no está interesada en revivir el pasado, y no tiene inversiones en los feudos y controversias del pasado. Ella está mirando el futuro y buscando soluciones. Como ella dice:

 

“No estoy ni un poco interesada en continuar los señalamientos y acusaciones del pasado; mis ojos están en el futuro.  Mi única meta es establecer el título saneado de Custodia y la Finca 24113-B, nada más.  Esto es lo que mi madre quería – solucionar los problemas que le impedían disfrutar de su propiedad.  ¿Y quién no querría eso?  La postura actual del Registro es desconcertante y triste en muchos aspectos, con nuevas advertencias administrativas sobre propiedades la mayoría que no tienen nada que ver con los procesos legales de Custodia. Las personas no tienen el poder de emitir o retirar las advertencias sobre las propiedades– solo el Registro puede hacerlo.  Las últimas acciones del Registro han sido tomadas a iniciativa propia, por razones que solo ellos pueden explicar. Yo invito a cualquier propietario que esté enfrentando problemas con sus propiedades a solicitar junto conmigo al Registro que se haga responsable ante el público al que sirven, ayudando a todos los propietarios ofreciéndoles certeza legal y a realizar negocios de manera clara y transparente.”

 

¿Entonces Cómo Termina Esta Saga?

 

En pocas palabras – ¡nadie sabe! No hay manera de predecir cuánto tiempo tomará resolver este caos que el Registro Nacional ha permitido. Hasta la fecha, se desconoce el proceso legal específico o las acciones judiciales que solucionarán y retirarán las actuales  advertencias. Mientras este caso avanza y el Registro libera más información, haremos nuestro mejor esfuerzo por informar y actualizar esta historia. Mientras tanto, contamos con expertos en catastro y equipos legales estudiando las complejidades del informe emitido por el Registro – en un esfuerzo por comprender total y completamente estos problemas. Esperamos que aquellos que necesiten respuesta a sus preguntas o deseen que sus propiedades sean analizadas tengan la confianza de contactarse con nosotros en busca de ayuda y asesoría. Sírvase contactarse con nosotros a través de info@nosararealestatereport.com para analizar su propiedad y haremos nuestro mayor esfuerzo por asesorarlo. Continuaremos actualizando esta historia a medida que progresa y esperamos que sea resuelta de manera justa y oportuna. Estos problemas deben ser resueltos ya que la estabilidad y la fe en el mercado inmobiliario en Nosara depende de un sistema basado en la buena fe; fe en el gobierno de Costa Rica y fe en el Registro Nacional, la base de la propiedad de tierras en Costa Rica.

Yes Nosara’s expensive – unless you’re shopping in the luxury home market

“Epic sunsets, incredible star gazing, great surf for all levels, cool people, but it’s just so expensive” is a phrase familiar to many visitors to Nosara. Despite this sentiment, a quick glance at the numbers suggest that although living costs in Nosara are above the national average Nosara remains an affordable paradise where middle class people can afford to visit, live or retire. One of the best examples of an area where great value can still be found is in Nosara’s burgeoning luxury home market. The increasing popularity of Nosara’s luxury homes among buyers comes down to a number of factors including land size, privacy, and the kind of ocean views that are usually strictly reserved for the multi-millionaire club. Here are a few examples of what Nosara Real Estate Report considers to be some of the best value homes currently on the luxury market, complete with a graphic that highlights what you’d be getting for your money compared with other places. Enjoy!

Las Huacas Mountain VS Toronto – Saving = $1,423,000

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Midway up Las Huacas mountain sits this modern, upscale, two bedroom, two bathroom residence. It’s location provides a rare, highly sought after combination of stunning views and great proximity to the beach. Its double high ceilings, fully equipped state-of-the-art kitchen, high end finishes, and full security system are a mere sampling of the many features of this amazing home. This is a property that any discerning buyer will love, particularly when they learn the price just got reduced by over $200,000. Click here to view this listing, or contact us about this property.


Playa Guiones K Section VS Outer London – Saving = $2,161,000

6In the past 18 months alone Casa De La Luna has grossed $117,000 in rental income. This is one of the many reason that this home is up there as one of the most exquisite properties currently on the Nosara real estate inventory. Only steps from Playa Guiones Casa de la Luna has 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, an incredible pool and a comfortable, expansive outdoor living area. Beneath the property is a 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom apartment suite. A property in this location, with these features, and at this price makes it one of the best real estate opportunities currently available. Click here to view this listing, or contact us about this property.


San Diego VS EE Section Ocean Views – Saving = $2,360,000

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 This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom luxury hideaway sits at the end of a private Cul-De-Sac atop of EE sections Las Huacas Mountain. It comes with unparallelled design specs and overlooks a spectacular infinity pool and private garden. It also features sweeping, panoramic views of Playa Guiones and the Pacific ocean from the lush outdoor space of the front terrace. The price of this home has just been significantly reduced. Click here to view this listing, or contact us about this property.


 

San Francisco VS Las Huacas Mountain – Saving = $3,400,000

4With a much sought after, yet seldom found combination of land size, seclusion, guest capacity and 360 degree North to South horizon views to call this property ‘exceptional’ would be an understatement. This home is ready to move in and the only thing the new owners will have to concern themselves with is what surfboard they choose to ride after their post-morning wave check. Whether it be for residential, retirement, or rental purposes, with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and too many features to list, the potential for this stunning home is limited only to the owners imagination. Click here to view this listing, or contact us about this property.


San Juanillo Vs Los Angeles – Saving = $3,441,000

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If you’re the kind of person for whom ‘good enough’ is never enough then this may be the kind of house you’ll be proud to call home.  30 feet high indoor ceilings, a range of fine art, beautiful lines, native wood furnishings are some of the many features that combine to make this home truly one of a kind. The outdoor terrace complete with pool, bbq, shower and dining area are the perfect place to treat guests to sunset dining. This home really must be seen to be believed. Click here to view this listing, or contact us about this property.


Houston , Texas VS Nosara Mountains – Saving = $3,700,000

 

1Located in the mountainous jungle just outside of Nosara this home represents 7000 square feet of architectural genius. A wrap around terrace with 360 degree ocean views, cool mountain breezes, spiraling stair cases, 30 ft high domed ceilings, wet bar and a private cinema. The list of incredible features attached to this home is to exhaustive to list in its entirety. Suffice to say there is a good reason that many people consider Casa Redonda to be one of the true jewels in the Nosara real estate market’s crown. Click here to view this listing, or contact us about this property.

 


Hamptons VS Las Huacas Mountain – Saving = $4,475,000

2Whether it be a luxury rental home, or boutique retreat center this place has everything you could possibly want and much, much more. Sunset peak can easily sleep up to 15 guests all of whom can enjoy the comfortable opulence of the huge terrace and beautiful pool while looking down on the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and lush jungle. Sunset Peak sits on 5,000 square meters of land, and as Nosaras reputation as a leading retreat hotspot increases this place can only go from strength to strength. Click here to view this listing, or contact us about this property.

 

 

 

 

Fantastic Long term Rental Opportunity Steps From the Beach

 

New to the rental market is this fantastic 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, fully equipped condo located only a minutes walk away from the ‘palm tree entrance’ to Playa Guiones. This beautiful home is located in the heart of the H Section in the Condos Del Sol development – a 10 condo, boutique style, gated community within a stones throw of local shops and restaurants. Condos Del Sol comes ready to move in with a state of the art kitchen, modern fixtures and furnishings and a beautiful pool and rancho area.These condos also come with 24 hours security. If you’re searching for the ultimate Nosara long term rental location then this could be your answer. The owner is asking $2000 per month + utilities. Contact us now for more info, or call 8877-6893

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5 of the Best Nosara Real Estate Opportunities on the Market!

5 of the Best Nosara Real Estate Opportunites on the Market!!

 

Land on Las Huacas – The house comes free!

This is a great opportunity in the EE section of Las Huacas mountain and is being sold for the price of the land. That it comes with a lovely 2.5 bedroom house is just a bonus This 2500 square meter property was recently reduced from $400,000 to $349,000 and sits on land that is 100% buildable. Great views, cooling breezes and tranquility at the top of the hill in las huacas. The owner is motivated and ready to sell at a great price. Click here to view this listing. Contact us about this property.

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Nice Turnkey Beach House

This contemporary beach house on a wonderful double lot is a money making turn key property ready to go. Located only 300m from the beach, the house is surrounded by bamboo, and comes with a gorgeous pool and rancho area to relax the day away. The  annual rental revenue is approximately. $45,000. Click here to view this listing. Contact us about this property.

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Fantastic Home – Walk to the Beach

This is 300m from beach, private, serene and move in ready. This  3 bedroom, 2 bathroom is private, serene, 300 meters from the beach and comes with a fantastic pool. There is plenty of room to expand and maybe build a cabina or two. Tons of potential with this fantastic opportunity. Click here to view this listing. Contact us about this property.

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4 Bedroom Home – Priced to Sell

This place is nicely situated within walking distance of Lagarta Lodge. It boasts seasonal ocean views, cooling breezes, a small pool, 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. This home is solidly built and has a path directly behind that takes you to the beach in just a few minutes walk. Tons of opportunity on this aggressively priced property. Click here to view this listing. Contact us about this property.

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Great Home – Nice Price – Bullseye Location

This is a great opportunity to live and work in Guiones and if its location you’re after then it doesn’t come better than this. This 3 story, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom home is only steps from The Gilded Iguana and ripe for the picking. The opportunity exists to live on the top 2 floors and run a B&B or a restaurant or juice bar on the main level. This will sell fast and is  a very unique opportunity for someone lucky enough to snap it up. Click here to view this listing. Contact us about this property.

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Last but by no means least, check out our pick of the best condos in Nosara. Beach Condos from $189,900 to $265,000

http://firstchoicenosara.com/Condo-Apartment-For-Sale-Nozara-Guanacaste-Costa-Rica_900751006-81

http://firstchoicenosara.com/Condo-Apartment-For-Sale-Nosara-Guanacaste-Costa-Rica_900751006-82

http://firstchoicenosara.com/Condo-Apartment-For-Sale-Nosara-Guanacaste-Costa-Rica_900751006-60

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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