Living in Costa Rica is the ultimate expression of personal freedom. This oasis of unsurpassed beauty, eco-diversity, and "the perfect wave" is nestled peacefully between the warm waters of the Caribbean and the Pacific. Each year, surfers, retirees and adventurers are attracted to its shores to experience an unmatched quality of life, low cost of living and "Garden of Eden" features.

• Costa Rica's current real estate boom is driven by investors and developers from around the world who view favorable tax laws, land affordability, and the country's democratic stability as key drivers for a sound investment.

• Excellent, affordable health care by U.S.-trained, English-speaking physicians using state-of-the-art medical equipment. Many people come to Costa Rica from around the world for affordable cosmetic surgery.

• An American population of approximately 50,000. There are more Americans living in Costa Rica than Costa Ricans living in American. They have no desire to leave this peaceful, beautiful country.

• Great weather year-round, with an average temperature of 89 degree F on the Pacific seacoast.

• Home to 5% of the Earth's known species in a country the size of West Virginia.

• Tropical rainforests, seven active and 60 dormant volcanoes, mountain forests, 9,000 species of plants including 1,400 species of orchids, exotic animals and abundant national parks.

• Clean, drinkable water throughout the country.

• A population of warm, wonderful people who truly love and emulate Americans. Many speak English.

• Solid infrastructure, with electricity installed throughout the country... even in the smallest towns. The best telecommunications in Central America with cell phone service, 120 radio stations, a dozen TV stations and internet accessibility in almost every town and village.

• Travel writer Christopher P. Baker says Costa Rica has a proud history as Central America's most stable democracy (elections are so trouble-free that crowd control at polling stations is handled in part by school children). He describes how Ticos (as the friendly Costa Ricans are known) pride themselves as having more teachers than policemen. There is no army in this neutral country.

Bill Knickman

Bill Knickman is a managing member of Costa Rica Lifestyle Development LLC (CRLD). CRLD specializes in real estate property development, construction, sales, and property management in one of the world's most beautiful, bio- diverse resort destinations - Costa Rica. In his role, Mr. Knickman, along with Gary Woerner, manages the firm?s investment properties in Costa Rica.

Knickman, who owns property in Costa Rica, believes, ?Costa Rica is the logical extension of South Florida and Southern California where real estate costs have soared to beyond the reach of most Baby Boomers seeking a vacation home, retirement home or investment property.? Still unspoiled by over development, he feels ?that Costa Rica provides the ideal location for nature lovers, surfers, sport fishermen, and anyone seeking natural beauty, wellness and tranquility in a friendly country.? ?Moreover,? Knickman says, ?Costa Rica boasts low-cost real estate, a favorable tax climate and ownership rights for non-residents that are unrivaled in Central and Latin America. With fully titled land available and Steward Title Insurance, there is little risk in investing in Costa Rica and the appreciation will continue to reward the smart investor.?

A 1969 graduate of Villanova University with a bachelor's degree in Business Management, Knickman has been involved with construction, development and real estate sales for over 30 years in the United States and for the past 3 years in Costa Rica.

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