In Costa Rica taxies can be found around every public square
and park, outside discotheques, on most busy streets, and
in front of government buildings and most hotels. Most tourists
and residents depend on taxis for their main means of transportation.
Be aware that many taxi drivers will try to sell you property,
offer you seemingly good contacts or other services. Your
best bet is to deal only with professionals in your area
of interest and not depend on taxi drivers for these services.
I have lost count of the times taxi drivers have asked
me if I was looking for real estate. If a driver speaks good
English he will almost always start asking you questions
about your real estate needs. He will then tell you that he
know of some super deals and can help you find exactly what
you are looking for. He most certainly will give you his card
and tell you to call him.
To nobody's surprise many foreigners drop their guard
and rely solely on the help a taxi driver to find them
property or a home to buy. In some cases foreigners
gets exactly what they are looking for but most often the end result is
less than satisfactory.
I am not saying all cab drivers who offer their services
are dishonest, but that they lack the training of a professional
real estate agent. Remember
most drivers
are out to make a juicy commission or referral fee without the client's
interests
in mind. Since foreigners usually buy expensive homes and properties,
one sale can be a bonanza for a driver. He can usually earn
a referral fee
or commission
equal to a few month's pay by finding you a house.
If a driver does touch on the subject, just tell him you
are not ready to buy. They are usually persistent so just
keep telling them that you
are just
looking
around. You may have to repeat yourself several times before the driver
gets the message.
If you want more information contact Prime
Costa Rica real estate and retirement properties or
call toll free 1 888 581 1786.
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