Real Estate Talk:
Costa Rica

Where to vacation in today’s complicated world

By Joseph Marovitch

April 30. 2026

The world has changed in so many ways and in such a short period. We communicate by text; we are flooded with unverified news (in the past, this was called opinion); reading a book is becoming archaic; there are more borders; and division abounds. Eighty-one years of relative world peace since WW2, and suddenly, we cannot get along. We think cell phones, the internet and exponentially growing artificial intelligence bring us all closer together, yet we are farther apart than ever before. As we grow older and wiser, some things fade, but what is important and what is a waste of time becomes very clear. There comes a point in our lives when we decide to leave the world’s volatility to others and grab a little peace.

In today’s economic and political climate, travel has become complicated, expensive, and at times risky. In the past, we would find an all-inclusive resort or visit a country and take in all the beautiful experiences the world has to offer.

Today, we must worry about being detained if our social media does not comply with the laws of the country we are in. We worry about gas and there not being enough for our return home. The list of conflicts and possible eruptions worldwide is long.

However, there are places in the world where peace, harmony and environmental common sense still exist. One of those places is Costa Rica. I recently researched the country for a project I am involved in. What I discovered enchanted me.

I found one of the most beautiful, peaceful, and tropical places in the world: Costa Rica, a small, mountainous country in Central America bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the south, the Caribbean Sea to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

The climate is tropical to subtropical with two main seasons: a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November, with cooler temperatures in the highlands. The varied terrain and climate support remarkable biodiversity, and despite its small size, the country hosts a large share of the world’s plant and animal species, protected in extensive national parks and reserves.

… there are places in the world where peace, harmony and environmental common sense still exist. One of those places is Costa Rica. I recently researched the country for a project I am involved in. What I discovered enchanted me.

Politically, Costa Rica is a democratic republic known for stable institutions, a strong tradition of peace, and respect for human rights. Costa Rican culture is often summed up by the expression “pura vida,” reflecting a relaxed, optimistic outlook and an emphasis on community and well-being.

The country is also recognized as an environmental leader, generating most of its electricity from renewable sources and investing heavily in conservation and ecotourism.

Costa Rica has recently become one of the most popular destinations for vacation, second homes, and permanent residence.

The reason I researched Costa Rica is that a year ago, I was asked to assist with funding a development to build a resort for those who wanted to get away and spend a week without cell phones, with healthy food, peace, and a chance to clear their heads and renew.

This year, I was invited to participate in the development of a gated residential community dedicated to conserving land and wildlife. The development is on the Pacific coast, with ocean views and homes that are both beautifully designed and environmentally friendly. If one is searching for peace, away from all of today’s issues, I believe this is the destination as a new home and life, a getaway during the winter months or anytime, or as an investment.

If you would like to know more, I am hosting a presentation on June 15 in downtown Montreal. To attend, email or call me for information on how to register.

You can also find information at josephmarovitchrealestate.com. On the site, click PROPERTIES, once only, then click RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (Homes or Condos)

STATE OF THE MARKET

Though the Bank of Canada is keeping mortgage rates at 2.25%, the tier 1 banks, RBC, TD, BMO, BNS, and CIBC are all raising their rates to combat current and possible impending inflation. The longer the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, the longer the gas shortage will continue, causing inflation to rise. Even if the Strait were to open today, global economies would take months to recover, and oil shipments would not resume quickly.

In these circumstances, household incomes begin to decline, rents are unpaid, and carrying costs increase. As a result, according to a recent article in the Financial Post by Robert McLister, editor of mortgagelogicnews.com, many Canadians are taking out variable mortgages to purchase and refinance. This is due to these mortgages offering very low rates, below 4%, which the main banks do not offer.

‘If a buyer or homeowner is considering a variable rate, it may be better to take a slightly higher rate on a 5-year term, amortized over 25 to 30 years, in case the situation turns around.’

A variable mortgage, which fluctuates daily with inflation, offers lower rates during difficult economic periods. However, it also carries risk, should the economy suddenly bounce back or small signs, such as inaccurate news statements, cause a spike in rates. Many do not expect the oil shortage to end soon and are prepared to take variable-rate mortgages.

If a buyer or homeowner is considering a variable rate, it may be better to take a slightly higher rate on a 5-year term, amortized over 25 to 30 years, in case the situation turns around. Even with a variable rate, should the global conflict continue for a longer period, the carrying costs will increase, inflation will rise, and the variable rate could spike. Then the homeowner would have a higher mortgage rate than the current 5-year term, combined with higher carrying costs. Once again, there are ways to combat the risk and acquire the most advantageous rate and terms.

Have a wonderful weekend.

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Image: courtesy of Joseph Marovitch

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