Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much do the houses cost?
Prices for 2-story houses start around $250,000. 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, all but one of the houses belonging to the developer have already been sold. The rest of the homes advertised on this website are being resold by their respective owners. Almost all homes on the condominium are inhabited by their owners or renters. Only two homes are under construction. This guarantees that when you buy in Prados del Oeste, you and your family will enjoy a comfortable neighborhood atmosphere.
4. 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.
5. Is there a chance to build a larger house?
The largest house in the condominium is being built in lot 8A. Click here for more information.
6. Is the condominium secure?
Yes, we have equipped the condominium with a 24/7 manned guardhouse, access control gate
and exclusive access for our residents and visitors, concrete wall
around perimeter, alarm system, optional security key, and closed
circuit TV system. Please refer to Condominium Features to read more about security.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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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