Thursday, December 16, 2010

Client Testimonial
Why I Chose Oceano
Guy Merriman
Washington, USA

How often do you come to Costa Rica?
My wife and I have been coming once a year for about 4 years now. We look forward to the time we can visit Costa Rica more often.

Why do you like coming to Costa Rica?
I love this country! The tropical aspect of it is so diverse, you can lie on the beautiful beaches of the South Pacific Nicoya Peninsula one day and then hike around active volcanoes like Arenal the next day. As a keen hiker that loves the tropics, the abundance of options this country has to offer really appeals to me, there is just so much to see. I also think the people are great and I like the food as well.

Guy & Kathy Merriman during their last visit to Costa Rica

How much time would you like to spend in Costa Rica in the future?
In the future, when I am not as busy as I am now with my business, I would love to come to Costa Rica for periods of one or two months a year and really soak in the calm atmosphere and breathtaking nature.

What made Jaco the right place for your investment?
Jaco has been growing more and more in the last few years, with some really good restaurants opening up and new real estate projects. But the biggest benefit in my eyes is the proximity to San Jose. I still remember how the old road was, it was a nightmare coming down to the Pacific and it took between 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic on a very difficult road. Now it’s a piece of cake, since the new highway opened early this year, the ride down to Jaco became really smooth and fast, in about an hour you are right at the beach.


I see local tourism growing because of the new road with many local families making the trip to Jaco on weekends, vacations and holidays now that it’s so close. It also made traveling for tourists arriving at the main airport much easier.

What do you like about Oceano?
I really like the concept, I think the pricing is really good and the quality of craftsmanship is top shelf. From an investment stand point, Oceano will attract a lot of people because of the way it’s set up as opposed to just buying a regular condominium. Oceano is close to the beach with easy access to everything in town. The fact that it’s built as a hotel with 5-star amenities and services will give it a big advantage. I think people will prefer the option of having everything on hand with all the amenities Oceano has to offer. I also think many companies will find Oceano’s conference room as a great place to have seminars or meetings and they will probably make Oceano their place of choice on the Pacific.

What made you have confidence in this development?
The People. I have known Pete Scott, Oceano’s sales manager for a long time and I trust him completely. I also heard a lot of great things about Itai Bar the developer. I believe that when you are about to make an investment, it is very important to have confidence in the people behind the investment and truly believe in the concept yourself. Because I feel confident with these two factors in Oceano, I am very confident about my decision to invest in the project.

What made you move forward and buy a unit?
I thought the pricing was good, and I liked the design. As a CPA, I looked at the ROI numbers carefully, and in my opinion it is definitely a good investment. I looked at this mostly from an investment standpoint but also from a lifestyle standpoint, Oceano gives me a great place to stay when I come down to Costa Rica that will always be there for me.

Who would you recommend Oceano to?
I would recommend Oceano to anyone looking for an investment other than stocks or bonds. I think Oceano is a great option for people who are looking into investing in a place like Mexico but are disappointed with the country’s government and safety issues. Nothing can beat Costa Rica’s tranquility and friendly Ticos.

* Tico is a common nickname for native Costa Ricans.

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Naturally Jacó - A photo journey to the natural wonders around Jacó Beach

Jacó has over 3 miles of sandy beaches
 Naturally Jacó
More than just a surfer's paradise

Comprising 1,016 kilometers of rainforest, beaches and ocean, Costa Rica's Pacific coastline offers everything from bird watching, surfing and wild animal encounters to fine dining, adventure tours and dazzling sunsets.
Scarlet Macawas are a common sight in Jacó

  
With the new Costanera highway, you can divert yourself in just one hour from the cool temperatures, modern shopping malls and urban scene of the capital city to the warm sandy beaches of Jacó, Herradura
and Hermosa.

There is a loyal tourist following, resident North American expats and international developers who see Jacó as the ultimate central Pacific destination and one of the country's most rapidly developing cities. The city's proximity to the international airport, San Jose and many of the country's most popular national parks and attractions, crown Jacó as the central stop on the Pacific for tourists and locals alike.

Excellent restaurants, 24-hour casinos, exciting outdoor activities and chic lounge bars transform the Jacó landscape from laid-back surf town to prime tourist destination, which makes it easy to overlook the breathtaking natural surroundings just outside the town center.
Aerial view of Jacó's northern shoreline

Getting back to nature is as easy as taking a walk on the beach, hiking the lush mountain trails overlooking Jacó's half-moon bay or dipping your feet at one of the area's hidden waterfalls.
Relax and unwind at the beautiful beaches of Jacó and Hermosa
Experience simple solitude with an unhurried walk along the shoreline to Jacó's pristine north end, where rocky headlands and lazy palm trees create the perfect backdrop for mellow relaxation. At the opposite southern end of Jacó, bask in the sun as pairs of Scarlet Macaws fly high above you and keen surfers challenge the ocean in front of you.  

The scenic road between Jacó and Hermosa is a beautiful 5 minute drive
A short 5 minute drive south of Jacó takes you to the gorgeous beach of Playa Hermosa, the perfect setting to walk the unspoiled shoreline for miles, while you enjoy unbelievable sunsets over the Pacific as the surfer crowd puts on an entertaining afternoon show. 

Newborn Leatherback Sea Turtles make
their way to the vast Pacific ocean in Hermosa
 As night falls, dozens of Leatherback Sea Turtles flock Hermosa's southern shoreline, laying their eggs in the shelter of the darkness, then making the strenuous journey back to the ocean, uncertain of their offspring's faith. You can help the volunteers who scour the beach each night, salvaging the fragile eggs from the ground, then reburying them at Hermosa's National Wild Life Refuge, where the hatchlings are safely protected until their first plunge into the vast ocean. 

White sand beaches and adorable Squirrel Monkeys at Manuel Antonio National Park
For a different wildlife experience, travel one hour south to Manuel Antonio National Park, regarded as one of the country's most spectacular destinations and a popular day trip from Jacó. This coconut filled paradise is typified by rainforest clad mountains sweeping all the way down to the ocean, its rocky headlines a favorite hunting spot for graceful pelicans. Stroll along the park's winding trails where you're bound to see playful capuchin monkeys, allusive iguanas, noisy howler monkeys, laid back sloths, and with a bit of luck, you might get to experience a face to face encounter with the increasingly rare Central American Squirrel Monkey.
 Just a 5 minute drive north of Jacó will lead you to Herradura bay where you can catch a boat ride to the hidden shores of Playa Escondida or spend a quiet afternoon bathing in the calm waters of Playa Blanca, which as its name suggests, adorns powder like white sand and turquoise wave less waters.
A close encounter with groups of Pizotes is a common treat at the Pacific Coast
While you're in Herradura, don't miss out on some of the best sport fishing on the Pacific with boats sailing from the Los Sueños marina, where playful dolphins following your boat's path is a common sight. Depending on the season, you might even catch a glimpse of the majestic Humpback whales migrating to Costa Rica's warm tropical waters to mate.
 Another 15 minute drive north of Jacó, you will find the Carara National Park, a popular refuge for the magnificent Scarlet Macaws and many other colorful bird species. Close by flows the infamous Tarcoles River whose river bank is a favorite resting spot for fearsome crocodiles.

Discover the beautiful sunny beaches of the Central Pacific
Finish the day with an evening cocktail and delicious dinner at one of Jacó's high-end restaurants, offering a tempting range of international cuisines from African to Asian, French and even Peruvian.
 There is no doubt that Jacó is headed in a promising direction and the new road will continue to help Jacó develop as Costa Rica #1 beach destination for travel, leisure and investment.
Don't miss the chance to learn more about the unique investment opportunity that Oceano has to offer you. At Oceano you can own a fully-furnished high-end condo within a 5-star hotel in Jacó that you can use when you please and have rented when you're away.

Our two bedroom lock-off units will pay for themselves at just 33% occupancy, including mortgage payments, HOA fees, insurance, property tax, phone, electric and water payments. Anything above that is your profit!

To learn more about Oceano and receive our full ROI projection sheet call (506) 2643 4311 or email us at OceanoJaco@gmail.com and visit our model unit on your next trip to Jacó.

Monday, October 18, 2010

Discover 365 days of summer


Live life as a constant vacation

Discover Jaco Beach

Breathtaking sunsets, prime access to tropical flora & fauna, high-end restaurants and adventure tours like canopy zip-lining, ATVs and sport fishing, not to mention some of the best nightlife in the country, have quickly transformed Jacó into Costa Rica's most popular beach vacation hotspot. This booming beach town attracts retirees, families, international tourists, surfers and real estate investors from around the world.


Client Testimonial
Why I chose Oceano
Alejandro José Quirce Jiménez
Entrepreneur and business owner
San José, Costa Rica


How would you describe yourself?
I am an entrepreneur who works hard during the week but likes to spend any time I have left with my family and do as much outdoor sports as I can. I believe in building long term values such as family and honest business.

Do you enjoy water sports?
I love water sports, it is my favorite pass time: surfing, sport fishing, scuba diving and boating.

Alejandro Quirce (Left) and Oceano developer
Itai Barz (Right)

Why do you think Jaco is a good place to invest?
I see Jaco as a stable growing region demographically and commercially. Even before the new highway opened, which made a big impact, I think Jaco is growing in a good stable pace. For me Jaco is the city of the coast that will guarantee that my investment at Oceano will reach high occupancy levels and generate a good passive income for me. I believe in this project as it offers a lot of services and amenities and is very accessible to San Jose.


What are the things you liked about Oceano?
I really liked the architecture, business plan, investment plan and marketing strategies, I also think the location is great for rentals, but most of all I was impressed with the people that represent the project. I think the developer and his team are very trust worthy and dedicated, I have complete confidence that they are going to deliver a good product.


What made you have confidence in this development?
The way they have structured the steps to make sure the development moves forward, Itai, the developer, has put a lot of time and effort into the project and I respect that. I am the same way as an entrepreneur myself, I invest a lot of time and energy into everything I do, and I could see that Itai is the same way. I think he took the right steps in the right direction and he is very focused, well organized and has extensive business experience.


What made you move forward with your purchase?
The confidence that I have in the project and the people behind it. I believe Oceano is a good selling product. I also like the fact that I will be able to enjoy it with my family, coming down to Jaco on Friday evening to catch the sunset, spend the weekend and come back Sunday night well rested without being exhausted from driving long distances, just pleasantly tired from all the beach activities.


Who would you recommend Oceano to?
I would recommend Oceano to all the people that are in the same life stage as I am, hard working individuals with a young family who find a benefit in having a recreational apartment on the coast that pays for itself and allows them to enjoy Jaco's sandy beaches and amenities in their limited spare time.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Oceano's model unit is finished!


To schedule your visit please contact us at (506) 2643 4311 or OceanoJaco@gmail.com


The Oceano model unit showcases a fully-furnished one bedroom condo with an imported Italian kitchen, stainless steel appliances, exotic Brazilian counter top, double pillow top mattress, luxurious marble and travertine bathroom and many other custom made finishes.



Discover Oceano's 1 bedroom unit at our new office location in the center of town, 20 meters north of Banco Popular, on the second floor next to Nazarath Spa.



 
All units come turn-key and fully-furnished


Monday, August 30, 2010

Why I Chose Oceano

Dr. Sarkar
Florida, USA


As a doctor in Florida with small children, my schedule is pretty tight. I can only take weekends off or just a few days here and there to relax and enjoy myself. Jaco's proximity to the international airport and its many activities make it very convenient for my lifestyle. There are great restaurants, bars, tours and beaches. There is always something going on.

The new highway that opened this year is a big benefit in my opinion. It makes the ride to Jaco much faster and more comfortable than before. The drive on the old road was not so pleasant. Another thing about Jaco is that the current hotel options in town are not very appealing. They are overpriced and the value is not really there. I am a person that enjoys things of high quality. That is why Oceano's design, quality finishes and amenities definitely appealed to me. I love room service!

I think Oceano will be the best hotel value in Jaco and I am glad I purchased. I also think the project's location is very good for rentals. It is not ocean front but the price is great. Other projects in the Jaco area are very nice but are not designed to rent well. I think Oceano makes more business sense and will bring in more money.

Oceano allows me to have a second home that is subsidized by the rental income.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

How to legally purchase rental income properties with your retirement fund


Is it legal to purchase real estate and other non-traditional assets using my IRA?


The answer is yes!
The Employee Retirement Income Security ACT (ERISA) of 1974 passed the responsibility of retirement saving from the employer to the employee. Created in 1975, IRAs provide individuals a chance to direct where their retirement funds are invested.


The IRS code, instead of distinguishing which investments are allowed, identifies which investments are not permitted under these laws. Under both ERISA and IRS codes, there are only two types of investments excluded: life insurance contracts and collectibles such as works of art, rugs, jewelry, etc. Refer to Internal Revenue Code Section 401.


How come I haven't known about this?

It's a common misconception that the only investments allowed in a retirement account are stocks, CDs and mutual funds.
The truth is that broader investment options have been available to the public since the inception of the IRA in 1975.

The retirement industry has been dominated by large transaction-driven custodians who have focused on a narrow universe of investments. While these kinds of accounts may be right for some, they don't offer the kind of freedom that a self-directed qualified retirement plan offers.

The fully maximize your investment options, you need to have a retirement plan that allows you to select your own investments. A fully self-directed retirement plan allows you the freedom to invest in many types of assets -- assets that are not prohibited by the Treasury Department regulations and the Internal Revenue code.

A condo at Oceano is a great option for your retirement plan as it qualifies with all the IRA requirements and provides an alternative option with security, hard asset and high rental income.


Do a lot of people who have self-directed IRA accounts?
The self-directed industry is growing very strong and is expected to see around $2 trillion enter the market in the next two years. There are over 45 million IRA holders, and less than 4% of those are held in non-traditional assets. This number is expected to grow significantly over the next 5 years as more individuals and their financial advisers attain a greater awareness of self-directed IRAs.


How do I open a self-directed IRA?

You can open self-directed IRA account by contacting Entrust Administration Services at 407-367-3472 or by visiting their website at http://www.entrustfl.com/


You'll be asked a few questions regarding the type of account you'd like to open. Then, you'll be provided with the account packet. Simply fill out the form, sign them and return the originals to Entrust.

Please call Rhonda Scott at 866-391-2750
with any questions regarding Oceano and how to generate rental income using your retirement plan.


* Data taken from Entrust Administration Services, INC



Friday, July 23, 2010

Why I chose Oceano

Roger N. Kourey
Dentist, South Carolina, USA


"When I came to Costa Rica I was in search for a home or a small piece of land. After visiting and learning the area I decided to purchase in the Oceano development because it just made more sense for me. I figured if I was not going to live in Costa Rica full time I might as well have a property that can maintain itself and generate retirement income.
It would also give me a warm place to spend future winter months and go fishing in the Pacific. I also really enjoyed Jaco, while the other areas are nice I found them to be too secluded. Jaco is a vibrant and active community which is more of what I prefer. My realtor and the Oceano developers helped to make me feel very comfortable and secure with this purchase through the entire process".

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

What is "The Oceano Experience"?


Your Oceano Hotel unit will deliver 62% of the rental income as profit to you

Oceano is designed to deliver the ultimate living and vacation experience. From the moment you enter the foyer the building reveals its unique architecture and artistic design, unfolding the different layers of the sea, from the lobby representing the ocean's floor to the penthouses displaying the ocean's surface.

The ocean layer theme progresses with each floor, creating a world of its own with over 20 water elements such as aquariums, wall fountains and waterfalls distributed throughout the building.


The Oceano experience is inherent throughout the project as a perfect balance between beauty, design and functionality




Oceano will provide its guests with much more than value and amenities, providing a unique and memorable vacation experience.

Guests will find themselves marveling at different art work, large fossils, sea shells and more in the unique aquatic environment of the hotel, while enjoying healthy meals at the restaurant, a relaxing massage at the spa or wondering through the gallery's exclusive paintings, jewelry and sculptures.

Through this experience our guests will generate high word of mouth marketing, enhance the hotel's exposure and and build stronger brand recognition, resulting in higher occupancy and better profits for you.

Oceano offers you an opportunity to own a 4 star hotel unit titled to your name that you can use when you please and have it rented out and maintained by an experienced hotel management team for you while you're away.

Your Oceano Hotel unit will deliver 62% of the rental income as profit to you, providing a safe profitable investment at Costa Rica's prime beach destination.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Take 5 Min to learn about Costa Rica's best investment opportunity

Oceano offers you an opportunity to own a 4 star hotel unit titled to your name that you can use when you please, or have rented out and maintained by the hotel for you while you’re away.

In January 2010 the new highway to the Pacific coast has opened and transformed Jacó into Costa Rica’s prime beach destination. There are few times in life when you find yourself at the right place at the right time. The proximity to San Jose and the country’s international airport has generated a tourism boom in the already flourishing town of Jacó that will establish it as the prime choice for investment in CR.

Your Oceano Hotel unit will pay for itself at just 30% occupancy
At Oceano we regard you as our partner and therefore wish to educate you on all aspects of the project such as: Oceano's advantages, competition, location and market, so you can make an informed decision when considering becoming a partner at Oceano.


General description
Oceano is located at the center of Jacó and consists of a 6 storey U shaped building, with 44 exclusive units, a 24hr reception area with a 5m waterfall, tour desk, spa, gym, swimming pool, conference room, 12 person Jacuzzi, lounge area, business center, pool side restaurant with room service, two storey art gallery and 3 on site administrative offices for reservations, accounting and management.

Rental program
Your Oceano Hotel unit will deliver 62% of the rental income as profit to the unit owner.

There are no restrictions for the use of your unit on holidays and high season dates. While your unit is not being used, the Oceano team will rent it out and provide you with a detailed monthly report.


Transparency & Management
The owners at Oceano can access the hotel’s reservation system with a special owner’s log-in from anywhere around the world and see which rooms are being cleaned, used and reserved. In addition, 8 Internet based live view cameras will display the hotel’s reception desk, restaurant and other public areas so you can further monitor your investment.

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Why I chose Oceano

Michael J. Lemieux, CPA and developer
Gatineau, Canada


"My name is Michael Lemieux and I live in Gatineau ,a city right beside the city of Ottawa, the capital of Canada. I have been visiting Costa Rica frequently for the past 15 years and it is my favorite travel destination.

Oceano fits perfectly with our future plan to retire and relocate some of our savings to smart and safe investments

I got to know Mr. Itai Bar, the developer, and his family very well during my visits to Jaco. During this time, I have also watched them successfully run their hotel and restaurant, which I've enjoyed on all of my visits to Jaco.

To say that they are hard working, honest, smart business people that know the hotel business would be an understatement.

I was in Jaco the first week of last April 2010 with my wife Jeanne, and grandchild Emanuel, and decided to sign an offer to purchase for a two bedroom lock-off unit at Oceano.

As a chartered accountant in Canada (equivalent to CPA in the United States) and developer myself, I understand numbers and real estate very well. Oceano fits perfectly with our future plan to retire in two years time and relocate some of our savings to smart and safe investments that can deliver solid returns.

I look forward to the rental income Oceano will provide me, and to the great vacations I will enjoy with my family with all the perks of a 4-star hotel".