Authors Note: Randy Berg of CasitasForSale.com is an advertiser with The Costa Rica Star, however we felt inclined to show you why Randy and his Real Estate developments are so unique and compelling, and what goes on inside his head. The answers to these questions were provided via email and nothing has been edited or changed. Randy was featured in Newsweek for his unique approach to real estate here in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Star: After all of the years you have been here in Costa Rica doing real estate development, what are the main reasons why you stick around and what have you learned through your business dealings?

Randy Berg: We stick around mainly because Costa Rica has become our home. We originally moved here to get away from the stress of everyday life in the States and to “retire”. We sold literally everything we owned and moved to Costa Rica with two suitcases a piece and our two dogs. Like every other person that has moved here… over time we have seen the “good, bad, and the ugly.” The difference for us is that we still believe that life here, with its simplicity and “laid back” attitude has made us realize what is important for us.

Our business dealings have taught us how different our cultures are … I think that we have seen more of the challenges of life here because of our exposure to the various bureaucracies of Costa Rica as well as being exposed to more facets of life than the average “retiree”. And despite all of the challenges we have come to regard Costa Rica as our home… Costa Rica, for us, is like life “used to be”… when the simple things were appreciated…and family still has the meaning it had a century ago.

Costa Rica Star: How are your homes different from the other homes in the areas you develop?

Randy Berg: Our homes are distinctive, well designed and are built to take advantage of the uniqueness of the Costa Rican environment. They are less in price but still contain high quality materials. Each home is part of a community and blends with the local setting.. whether it be beach, mountain or jungle… and each presents a different challenge. Typically our communities are different than anything out there… from price to design to construction. And our buyers love them.

Costa Rica Star: What materials do you use for the walls, floors, and ceilings?

Randy Berg: It depends upon the environment and the location… some homes utilize block, steel and cement construction… others will use Covitec, which is a polystyrene, wire and cement construction originally used by Los Suenos for its insulating properties… other times we will use Densglass which is a stronger, mold resistant form of gypsum if the ground cannot support block. Roofing material can be clay tile or metal depending upon the design. We use all different types of styles and designs but always try to retain a Costa Rican feel for the homes.

Costa Rica Star: Do you use a local supplier for the raw materials and who builds your houses?

Randy Berg: ALWAYS, and we use local crews, construction personnel, architects and engineers. We believe in supporting the community through our efforts and thus strengthening the bond between our clients and the community that already exists in the areas where we develop.

Costa Rica Star: If a buyer wants to get financing for their home purchase, what does this process look like?

Randy Berg: We provide our own financing for buyers, up to ten years. We have a set of requirements, but it is straight forward to qualify.

Costa Rica Star: What are some of the biggest barriers to closing a sale, and how do you work to overcome them?

Randy Berg: Our products are relatively unique to the marketplace and we have very little competition. The biggest barrier to closing a sale is simple fear of the unknown… it is a big step to making a purchase in a foreign country and we all try to make people feel as if they are a part of our family and community.

Costa Rica Star: Over the next 5 years what are your real estate goals here in Costa Rica?

Randy Berg: To continue to offer unique communities in different areas. I would like to make our company synonymous with quality, a distinctive product which offers affordability, luxury and a great investment return (through rental returns and resale).

Costa Rica Star: If you had 1 minute to sell someone on the concept of living in Costa Rica and buying a home from you, what would you tell the potential buyer?

Randy Berg: If you have ever wanted a simpler life and wished that you could return to a gentler more simple time in your life… you have a chance to do it now… in Costa Rica. You will be able to enjoy the things that matter again. And with our communities you can be assured that you absolutely cannot find a better value.

Costa Rica Star: What is the best way to get a hold of you, your preferred method?

Randy Berg: I prefer to talk to virtually everyone that is interested in our communities but it is almost impossible with my schedule, so please email me as it allows me to answer each person directly, and in detail.

You can contact Randy using the information below.

Toll Free: 1-877-614-8079
Jaco: +506 2643-2691
Grecia: +506 2444-0582
[email protected]