Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much do the houses cost?
Prices for 2-story houses starts around $246,000. The final price depends upon the size of the lot, the model of the house to be built, and the furnishings and amenities to be chosen.
2. What is the size of the lots?
The size of the lot for our 2 story houses ranges between 1,872 and 3,594 square feet.
3. How many houses have been sold?
So far, more than 95% of our houses have already been sold, and about 90% are inhabited by their owners. The difference between these percentages is houses that have an owner and are currently under construction. There are also other houses that you can buy, like #9, and #20 which are ready to inhabit. Do you want more information about these houses? Click here.
4. How long does it take you to build a house?
After receiving at least 25% of its value, it usually takes up to 280 working days to complete the construction and to deliver a house, depending on the model, the extras and the modifications that this one is going to require.
5. Do you allow changes in the established layouts of your houses?
Yes, some personal customization of our layouts is always allowed. All changes must be previously approved by our architect and engineer. Some extra fees may apply for these changes.
6. Can local financing be obtained for non-Costa Ricans or non-residents?
Yes, it can be obtained and we can assist you in obtaining it. Local financing can be obtained through many commercial banks, including BAC San José, HSBC and Scotiabank for qualified non-residents. Stewart Title can also assist both Americans and Canadians in obtaining their financing. Interest rates are constantly changing, but we can provide you with the latest information. Usually, local banks will finance 70-80% of the total cost of the house, and the rest has to be paid by the buyer.
7. Is there any chance to build larger houses?
The largest house model is Santander.
8. Is the condominium equipped with security?
Yes, we have equipped the condominium with guardhouse, access control gate
and exclusive access for our residents and visitors, concrete wall
around perimeter, alarm system, optional security key, and closed
circuit T.V. system. Please refer to Condominium Features to read more about security.
9. What is the difference between a condominium and an ordinary
neighborhood?
Prados del Oeste is a condominium of 56 single-family houses, subscribed under the Regulatory Law of Condominium Property, which defines its operation and protects the quality of life of its residents. The maximum authority within the condominium is the Board of Owners, which is responsible for the compliance to the Condominium Rules and to the Regulatory Law of Condominium Property, as well as guaranteeing the adequate maintenance of common areas and harmony between the residents. This means that the freedom of each individual owner is a bit more constrained in a condominium than in an ordinary neighborhood. For example, in an ordinary neighborhood a homeowner can change the color of the outer walls of his house and make changes to the façade as he wishes, whereas in a condominium this is not possible. Also, if an owner changes the purpose of the residence, say by turning it into a business, he can be coerced by the Regulatory Law of Condominium Property into returning the property to its original use. Then there is the added security of having a single entrance/exit that can be regulated to the residents' benefit. In an ordinary neighborhood such a regulated entrance is not permitted.
10. What is the monthly condominium maintenance fee?
Fees are set by the Board of Owners every year, depending on the size of the lot that belongs to the resident. Currently fees are between $120 and $229.
11. Do the houses come with a phone line?
It is usual in Costa Rica for new houses to come without a phone line, being up to the new owner to do the paperwork to get one. In Prados del Oeste, however, we have set aside one paired RDSI line for each home. All you have to do, as a new homeowner, is pay for the deposit and installation. This phone line allows for simultaneous fast internet and conversation; you can have two access numbers as well.
12. Are house prices fixed?
Prices are rising periodically. One component is the price of the land. As more upscale homes and new shopping centers get built in this area, the demand for the land grows and so does the price. The other component is the price of the construction itself. The rise in the price and transportation of building materials has been so steep lately that the pace at which the cost of construction rises is unprecedented. Both components force us to raise the price of the houses. Nevertheless, the house is reserved for 30 natural days with $5,000. Construction costs are fixed after receiving 25% of the total price of the house.
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