Welcome to the forum!
Have you traveled in Costa Rica or Latin America before? These are some good questions, maybe I can point you to some good resources and offer some general advice.
Before I even make a test drive to the property, what should I be asking myself?
You should think about what kind of an area you want to live in and what kind of lifestyle you would like to lead. What services and amenities are important to you and what are not so important. For example, do you want your daughter to go to a public school, a private school with local kids or a school geared for expatriate kids? A big part of what the American-European brokers do is not just finding a property that suits your needs and budget, but they give you real assistance in determining which neighborhood or area will suit your expectations and objectives. Not only do climates change dramatically in very short distances, the feel of the town and the expat community also changes from one area to another. If you locate yourself in an area that has the right "vibe" for you, then you will find your transition much easier.
What would it be like for a single white blonde mother? Would this be a safe place for myself and my daughter?
Being a Gringa (or Gringo) in Costa Rica has its advantages and disadvantages. One huge advantage is that Ticos generally look up to foreigners, so it is very easy to start off on the right foot. How works from there is more up to your individual attitude and personality than any general cultural factors. I have 2 daughters myself and in my opinion Costa Rica is really a great place to raise kids.
Here is a good article from Go Dutch Realty about making cultural adjustments
Relocate to Costa Rica While it would be foolish to say that racism and prejudice don't exist in Costa Rica, in my opinion they are not such big factors here. This is confirmed by a recent news story about a Costa Rican soccer player in the U.S.,
Andy Herron Says Bigotry Rife in U.S. Soccer.
Could I find work teaching? Could I make a living from the crops?
25 acres is 10 hectares, which is enough land to have a commercially viable farm. In my non-expert opinion you would find it difficult making a living growing normal bananas, pineapples or coffee. These agro businesses are set up for the big companies to make money and most farmers don't make more than a decent living. However, you could find good opportunities in specialty produce. Say organic fruits and vegetables, or specialty herbs and spices, or raising animals. Any niche product that you would like and can find a ready market locally or internationally for would be a good choice, and you would also have to see whether the climate is suitable.
Dale Johnson is our farming specialist if you would like to find out about what might work in the area you are considering.
Once you get your residency you would have no problem finding a teaching position. Before that you could probably tutor privately, some companies specialize in giving corporate courses and I don't believe that their professors are required to have legal residency since it is a short-term class or position.
