Re-Location Question

[ChrisM]

Have started to look seriously about retiring in CR. What areas do most Americans, not criminals on the run, retire to?
I would like to be able to buy a beach front or lake front lot, 1/2 to 1 acre, now, where the owner would carry the financing and then I could build once I made a permanent move in 8 years.  I've seen suggestions to have ones self registered as a corporation to protect assets and keep taxes down.  I have a million questions, but don't know where to look for the most accurate information to make a permanent life changing move like this.  I simply want to get the most for my money when retirement comes.
Also, if I was interested in buying a business in CR, where would one find the appropriate attorneys that would protect my interests?  Thank you for the info in advance.

[Russ]

Hi Chris,
Here is a good article on how to buy an existing business, the advantages and what you have to be careful of.
Buying a Business in Costa Rica

Here are the areas the group covers, which are the most popular for expats (criminals and normals alike) 
Costa Rica's Neighborhoods for Expats

For Lake front you would probably want to look at Lake Arenal. 

Registering property you buy in a corporation keeps taxes down when you transfer the property, since you can transfer the shares alone.  That way you don't have to change the property owner in the registry and pay the transfer taxes. However it doesn't change what property taxes you pay.  As to asset protection, you would make it more difficult for lawyers or private detectives in the US or Europe to find assets you have in case of a claim against for some reason. 

Take a look at the information above which should get you started and please don't hesitate to come back for more.