Economy

Money Exchange

As with any currency exchange, the rate constantly fluxates as years go by. But for the most part, the average exchange rate in Costa Rica is:

400 Colones = 1 US Dollar

If you are planning to visit Costa Rica, don’t bring any bills larger than a twenty. Costa Rica has been littered with counterfeit one-hundred-dollar bills. You will find anything over twenty hard to exchange, especially at banks. If a bank comes across a counterfeit bill they are likely to confiscate them.

To give you an idea of what you can get for your money, here is a list of prices of various items in Costa Rica:

• Beer at bar: 400 Colones / 1 US Dollar
• Short cab ride: 400 Colones / 1 US Dollar
• Bottle of local rum: 3000 Colones / 6 US Dollars

Real Estate

Buying real estate in Costa Rica can let you purchase your own little slice of heave for a very cheap price. In order to get your dream home for such a low price you have to be prepared to do your homework. Buying real estate in Costa Rica is much like buying in the US, but with a few major differences.

For example, did you know there is no such thing as a licensed real estate agent? Anyone in Costa Rica could tell you they were a realtor and try to scam you out of your money. Another tough thing about searching for real estate in Costa Rica is the fact that there is no Multiple Listing System. This means you have to search around for properties and then search around for the realtor in charge of the property.

Do your homework when buying real estate in Costa Rica, it will save you time, money, and stress.