Comments on: Seller Options: Exclusive Listings

By: Ben

Ben — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 12:00:19 +0000

Daniel, thanks for your insight. I’ve heard good things about GAR, but it is sobering to hear that you’re no nearer the goal (an MLS) than when you started, and in fact, perhaps further. I’d like to hear more about that.

We are currently romanced by the possibilities of an organized, professional real estate force here in the zone. We believe that the ultimate solution is an official MLS, but that is currently beyond our grasp. The increased cooperation that has resulted from our efforts so far has been a definite improvement in the quality of service that our buyers and sellers are receiving.

You bring up an interesting point – that of “whats the point?” if there isn’t a licensing authority in Costa Rica. Is GAR working towards making this happen? Maybe GAR & SPAR should get together and discuss how we might work together to address this fundamental necessity for Costa Rica real estate.

I’ll make sure my SPAR associates see this thread. We’ll see what other ideas come up.

By: Daniel Fawcett

Daniel Fawcett — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 03:34:28 +0000

As a fellow realtor in the Guanacaste region of Playa Hermosa I would like to weigh in on the MLS debate. We have formed the GAR here to much the same initial enthusiasm, etc. After more than 5 years of existence we are probably farther away from a MLS then when we started.

The reason for this is quite simple – There is no legal authoritative body giving licenses to sell real estate in Costa Rica. Until there is licensing here there will be no barrier to entry to the market nor any body to regulate real estate activities.

So good luck but don't expect much until there is a license sanctioned by the Costa Rican Government.

I look forward to your comments. Thanks.

By: Michael, Canada

Michael, Canada — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 20:21:57 +0000

Ben, I commend your efforts to bring some structure and organization and improvement to the real estate bedlam in the Southern Zone. And thank you for the great information on these pages. When I next come down to look at purchasing real estate, I will be must better armed with the right information.

By: Rod 'Tigre' Martin

Rod 'Tigre' Martin — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 21:59:42 +0000

The shift in mentality of the real estate brokers in this local area is perhaps the single most important event since the Costanera (coastal highway) opened up. Like Ben, I am very excited about SPAR and working with the experienced agents and brokers evolving the industry as a whole. Also wanted to mention, we'll be sharing more information on pricing property and key selling points in episode 2 of the new Guys in the Zone Talk Show…so stay tuned.