You are currently browsing the monthly archive for May 2008.
Investing in Nicaragua sometimes means more than just spending money on its real estate. Perhaps the most well known travel writer Arthur Frommer wrote in a recent post that travelers to poor countries like Nicaragua should think about why prices there are so cheap.
Frommer quotes in his post,
“In a devastating article appearing in the current edition of The New York Review of Books (June 12, 2008), Stephen Kinzer points out (in “Life Under the Ortegas,”) that 80% of the Nicaraguan population “subsist on less than two dollars a day.” Twenty-seven percent of the population “is undernourished.”
Kinzer also notes that,
“Nicaragua is among the safest and cheapest places in Central America, and a booming tourist enclave has already emerged around the beach town of San Juan Del Sur. Some entrepreneurs also dream of creating retirement communities to attract middle-class retirees from the United States.”
It’s only natural that when travelers plan a trip, they will try and maximize their vacation experience for as little money as possible. The same principle applies for investing. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that because Nicaragua is comparably poorer, they can offer tropical vacations (or investment opportunities) for less than their regional neighbors. But do these bargains come at the cost of exploiting the Nicaraguan people?
Frommers’ post ends with the question,
“As we lie on the beach and bask in the sun and click our fingers so the waiter will bring another drink, should we travelers pay some thought to the dreadful conditions that brought about our vacation pleasure?”
So what is Frommer saying? Is he suggesting that tourist and investors should pay more and go somewhere else? I don’t think so, but here’s where I have a problem with his post. Clearly, Frommer is suggesting that tourists and investors should think about the “dreadful conditions” that are raised in Kinzer’s article. But thinking about something and doing something are two different things.
My criticism about Frommer’s post is, that as one of the world’s most experienced travelers, he offers no suggestions how to make things better. We’re being called on to “think” about it. Where are the tips for tourists and investors to do their part to make a difference? Thinking is good – doing is better.
I have argued in this blog more than once, that part of what makes Nicaragua an exciting place to invest or vacation in, is the country’s room for growth. For the investor, part of that growth involves responding to the needs of the country on a local level. The term invest, means “to put money to use” and “to furnish with power.” Return on investment happens as a result of growth. So, yes, tourists go to Nicaragua and spend your money, investors you too!
Like Arthur Frommer, I agree that it is important for the visitor and the investor to think about how poor the country is, while you are there. And, here is a list of great non-profits that are helping to improve the living conditions for Nicaraguans in need. Invest in Nicaragua: invest too in its people.
- Mercy Corp
- World Vision
- Wisconsin/Nicaragua, Partners of the Americas Inc.
- Project Concern
- CRS Catholic Relief Service
Invest in Nicaragua by letting me know of any other organizations to add to this list.
Nicaragua’s Ocean Front Property
Whether you are thinking about a long term investment in speculative land or a turn-key resort community, Nicaragua’s ocean front property is low hanging fruit. Here are the top 5 reasons why ocean front property investments on Nicaragua’s Pacific coast are so sweet.
1. Tourism: Nicaragua knows its economic future is in tourism. Whether it’s under Daniel Ortega’s administration or his successor, look for continued investment incentives from this burgeoning market.
2. Safety: Nicaragua is rated the second safest country on the continent after Canada. The U.S. ranks 97th out of 140.
3. Bang for Your Buck: Investment cost compared to U.S. ocean front property. Also to be considered, is the price of home services such as house cleaning among others.
4. U.S. growth potential. Projected to be slowed by debt and the credit crisis for the next 10 years. This U.S. down turn could translates into appreciation potential in Nicaragua from international investment.
5. Destination: Nicaragua is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. Great Climate, Relaxed Lifestyle
Nicaragua’s Pacific Coast
San Juan Del Sur is host to several dynamic developments and dozens of individual possibilities.
Land information on the southern Pacific coast
Moving up the coast there a few stand out developments, some of which are only a 30 minute drive from Managua and the international airport.
Final Wash
Although recent headlines from Nicaragua reflect the countries fragile political and economic condition, recent headlines from the U.S. aren’t any better. The bottom line that makes investing in Nicaragua (especially its ocean front property) have huge potential, is that international tourism coupled with the aging U.S. population is sure make Nicaragua a “go to” destination in the near future.
There is a lot to consider right now when it comes to investing in Nicaragua. This week’s news out of Nicaragua regarding Daniel Ortega’s alleged involvement with the Armed Revolutionary Forces of Columbia (Farc) is disturbing, considering his past association with violence. As a reminder, Farc is considered by the United States and the European Union as an international terrorist group. The full story could cause investors to pause when considering the political stability of Nicaragua’s current administration and its relationship with the United States and Europe.
On the bright side, for investors whom are aware of the tremendous investment potential in Nicaragua and have not yet made the decision to buy, these headline merely extend the window to get involved at earlier prices. Existing developments need to have a stable political backdrop to sell their product and ongoing negative headlines out of Managua are not helping. This could give the investor a stronger playing hand at the negotiating table.
Whether you are already invested or are taking a wait-and-see stance, Nicaragua is still an investor darling at this point due to its substantial underdeveloped potential. Compared to its regional neighbors, real estate investments in Nicaragua may require a more long-term vision, but the potential is still worth the due diligence.
Ethanol as Biofuel
Today’s production of corn in the US destined to become ethanol accounts for over 25 percent of the traditional food/feed crop. That shift over the last two years has caused a dangerous increase in the price of corn, negatively impacting the growing but still fragile economy in Nicaragua.
Food As Fuel
Since corn is now seen an alternative fuel source, the agricultural commodity is now economically linked to the price of crude oil.
- Barrel price in 2006 – $66.00
- Barrel price today – $129.00
- Projected year end price – $200.00
- Bushel of Corn in 2006 – $2.00
- Bushel of Corn Today – $6.00
- Projected year end price – $8.62
Due in part to the negative economic impact from U.S. subsidized corn imports and recent soaring prices in gasoline, Nicaragua is facing some serious food shortage problems.
How does this effect the poor in Nicaragua? There are two results that are predictable, the first is social unrest. The World Bank estimates 33 countries face social unrest because of soaring food and energy prices. As Bob Marley once sang, “A hungry mob is an angry mob.”
The other expected consequence is increased emigration to the U.S.. According to a report today on China Radio International,
- “63.3 percent of Nicaraguans are inclined to seek jobs in other countries, up from 55.5 percent at the end of 2007…”
- Of those intending to seek jobs abroad, 44.5 percent prefer the United States.
- About 42 percent of respondents said the main reason for seeking jobs abroad was the lack of jobs domestically, while 23.6 percent cited poverty as the cause and 17.1 percent said the rise in food prices was triggering the exodus.
Food that should feed people is being converted to satiate the worlds hunger for gasoline, that’s just wrong.
Hey I Know!
Want to help?
Contact:
Thinking about Investing in a luxury waterfront condo in Nicaragua? Plan on visiting a few months or less each year? Here is a question you should ask; what about the rest of the time, can I trust a property management company to maintain the property and keep it occupied with reliable renters? This question is a non issue if you consider investing in a Condo Hotel, or Condotel.
Condotels have been around few years and are an excellent option for some. They also have their limitations. Miami was one of the first destinations to develop the idea that has taken off in popularity as a vacation investment option. Basically, as the owner of the unit, you can stay for a designated amount of time each year. During the remaining time, your investment becomes hotel inventory. As the owner of a product that’s sold, you receive a percentage of the money brought in by the hotel. This return, if steady, can help offset the costs of the investment. Mean while your investment is professionally maintained, which you pay for in a monthly service charge.
One of the main advantages of the Condotel market in Nicaragua, specifically San Juan Del Sur is it’s a comparatively burgeoning investment arena. What that means is you will pay less and get way more for your money. Here’s a general idea. What you will pay for, literally a hotel room in Miami, will buy you a luxury waterfront condo in a resort community in San Juan Del Sur.
Cala Azul is a prime example of a luxury Condo Hotel resort development currently under way in San Juan Del Sur. According to their web site, pre-construction investments starting around $200,000 are still available.
Here’s a short list of some of the advantages and disadvantages for the Condotel investment in Nicaragua.
So Cool:
- Tourism Law 306
- What you get for your money
- No maintenance worries
That Sucks:
- No full time retirement
- May not generate income for awhile
- Personal Limitations i.e. it’s a hotel
In Related News
For the investor who wants a really short vacation stay with a minimal investment, I am developing the idea of the motel/apartment, which I refer to as the Moment. Angel investors, I’m still waiting.
Hey I know!
Got the urge to do something good? Check out Peacepassers.org. They collect and distribute soccer gear to kids in Nicaragua and elsewhere. It could be the best investment you make in Nicaragua this week.
According to several news reports the planned month long national transportation strike is taking its toll on the capital city. Sources report that “…travel in the city [Managua] is both risky and tense…” with taxi drivers refusing to enter parts of the city where blockades are set up to disrupt traffic. A bus driver was killed on Wednesday in northern Nicaragua but reportedly there was no conection to the strike.
The strike which started on May 5th is expected to last for 30 days. Transportation organizations including taxis, bus lines, and the trucking industry are demanding a reduction of fuel costs and a freeze on future prices.
The U.S. Embassy in Managua recommends U.S. citizens buy fuel, food, and water to last for at least a week. It also advised that travelers avoid driving through barricades.
If you have to travel in Nicaragua it’s a good idea to review some travel safety tips and be aware of the tension on the specific routes to your intended destination.
World-Wide Food Crisis
Most headlines out of Nicaragua this week are regarding the food crisis. There are many reasons why there is a world-wide food crisis right now, and they are mostly political – but I won’t open that can of worms in this post. Memo to self: must remember this blog is about investment. The subject does remind me of a comment I heard recently. It went, “politics is about two things – the first is money, and…I can’t remember the second.”
Food Crisis In Nicaragua
I feel strongly that investing in foreign real estate ties an investor to that land in ways other than those that are self-serving. Fundamentally, that tie involves an ability to respond to the needs of the people on that land. That response-ability is an insurance that the investment made, like the people of that country will prosper. One won’t happen without the other. Investment supports people, people make investments grow, and in Nicaragua, both have a lot of room to grow.
Food Crisis Action Plan
One way you can insure that your investment in Nicaraguan real estate stays healthy, is to do your part and insure the people of Nicaragua stay healthy too. Here’s a short list of quality organizations to contact.
If you are considering investing in real estate in Nicaragua consider the “Community RE Fund Program” set up by Coldwell Banker in Nicaragua. According to their web site, “The REfund model encourages every participant in a real estate transaction to contribute funds at the time of closing. Investing that creates value in society and the environment while at the same time being financially profitable.” (read more)
Affiliated with the RE Fund program in Nicaragua, Dos Manos is a collection of non-profit organizations that focuses on children’s needs and education.
Unlike politics, investing in a country is about more than just one thing, today’s headlines make it easy to remember what it is. Do what you can to help with the food crisis in Nicaragua.
Why Nicaragua?
One of the compelling reasons for investing in Nicaragua is its potential for appreciation as the country develops. Because of its tumultuous recent history the country is playing developmental catch-up with its neighbors such as Costa Rica and Mexico. Yet geographically, Nicaragua boasts the same coastline, rainforests, and volcanoes as its neighbors, and lots more of them, including the largest fresh water lake in Central America.
In a recent correspondence with an investment adviser from Mexico, all of the conventional reasons why not to invest in Nicaragua were pointed out. All of which, are exactly why investing in Nicaragua holds so much promise, not only for the eventual return but also the current venture possibilities.
The negative reasons were; lack of infrastructure, limited flights into the country, Ortega’s political associations, a still growing economy and Nicaragua’s lack of exposure on the world market. On the surface these reasons seem valid and could be of concern if you’re looking to buy a vacation condo to use for a couple of weeks a year and need to have access to first world amenities.
Nicaragua is a long term investment, so as long as you are focused on long term appreciation potential and demand you will do ok. On the other hand if you are planning on buying into a brand new development on the coast where there is little to no infrastructure, and hoping to rent it out at near occupancy for premium rent you will be disappointed. Tourism is growing by leaps and bounds in Nicaragua; however, it still is way behind many of its neighbors and will be for some time yet. If you are the type of investor ready to pay top dollar so you can go on vacation and shop at arena sized super markets and shopping malls, indeed Nicaragua may not be right for you.
However, if you are an investor that is looking down the road, Nicaragua is an exciting opportunity. What I’m getting, at is there is at least one other reason that is possibly even more satisfying than Nicaraguan real estate’s potential appreciation. And that is the satisfaction of being on the vanguard of creating something new and watching the possibilities (negatives to some) develop.
It goes back to the investment adage, don’t buy the best house on the block.
From beach front investments on the coast to a grand old colonial city, Granada is currently considered the safest real estate investment in Nicaragua. Granada is located on the massive Lake Cocibolca also referred to as Lake Nicaragua and is just 30 miles from the capital Managua. Granada is the most popular tourist destination in Nicaragua and that alone makes it comparable to Antigua, in near by Guatemala. Other similar characteristics between Granada and Antigua are their shared history as the first two cities established by Europeans in Central America.
Aside from their age and continuous habitation, these two cities share historical, architectural, and cultural value that no other cities in Central America can claim. These attributes make them both attractive investments, whether it’s for a vacation home, or a retirement home.
OK, let’s talk about investment comparisons between these two cultural center pieces of Central America. First, remember the investment adage that, “the greater the risk, the greater the return” this is an important disclaimer because Granada is less developed than Antigua, therefore, there is more risk and so the potential for return is greater.
Here’s a list of comparisons:
Two Old Jewels – One Needs Some Polishing
Antigua is a UNESCO international heritage site (IHS) – Granada has applied and is awaiting approval. This status carries weight because it focuses an international eye on the city, which translates into money from their respective governments for police and infrastructure. In the case of Antigua, which is the jewel of Guatemala, the money it has received certainly has made a difference – and you’re going to pay for it. By all rights considering historical value, Granada should receive the UNESCO designation in the near future. Once UNESCO status is achieved, building regulations will surely become more restrictive similar to those in Antigua. As far as investment potential for the future, Granada has way more room to grow .
Antigua: No Lake
As mentioned, Granada is situated on the largest fresh water lake in Central America. The potential for development around the lake is, well, as big as the lake itself, not to mention the islands within the lake. Being the largest city on the lake and the closest to Managua and the airport, Granada has the potential to service any communities that may spring up around the lake. A comparable and very busy lake city is Panajachel which is the center of activity on Lake Atitlan in Guatemala. Again, if you consider the historical culture of Granada and the value of the lake it sits on, tourism has only begun to reach its potential in Granada. One just needs to count the number of expat communities around lake Atitlan to get an idea of the possibilities around Granada. Yoga retreat anyone?
Property Potential
In my research I found that the average price for a two bedroom home/business in Antigua is north of $200,000 and for a similar property in Granada you’ll pay about half that. It’s all about the lack of property listings in the city of Antigua. The reality is, if you want to live IN Antigua, property is at a premium on a completely different level than you’ll find in Granada. Not to mention the building restrictions. So as far as finding a home or property for sale, coupled with its potential for property appreciation Granada has the edge for the investor willing to take some risk.
There is a lot to know about investing in international real estate, and it’s encouraging when you can point to a precedent that has worked. Antigua has achieved a level of success that is envied by most small cities across Central America. In many ways Granada is lucky because today’s investors know what the potential is for a small historical city. Antigua is the known model for what Granada can become, throw in a lake that links to the Caribbean Ocean and the possibilities are impressive.
Choosing to invest in vacation ocean front property in Nicaragua, Costa Rica, or Mexico presents a staggering variety of opportunities. Vacations are usually synonymous with getting away for a couple of weeks, lounging by a pool or sunbathing on the beach. Investing in a beach front property allows you to enjoy a getaway and still be in your own home. If you invest carefully you benefit when you use your home, and for the rest of the year your getaway property should appreciate in value, and generate rental income. So with this in mind, I’ve created a list of criteria for the Best Vacation Investment Opportunities in Central America and Mexico. These beach front real estate investments are:
- Well established
- Offer Bank Financing
- Rental management
- Walking distance to the beach
- Two bedroom and two bathroom condo or similar
Starting off the list is the Bahia Del Sol located in San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua. Bahia Del Sol asserts they “take care of everything from construction to furnishings to rental.” With units starting at $176K for a 2bd/2b this development is worth taking a second at.
Seaside Mariana has all the criteria covered and then some. Seaside Mariana is located about an hour from Managua, and the international airport which gives this development easy access once you arrive in Nicaragua.
Gran Pacifica is also located less than an hour away from Managua and the international airport. Gran Pacificas’ web site offers ocean front condos starting at, $134,990 with 50 percent financing available.
So you’re saying, what about investments in Costa Rica, Panama, or Mexico? Well, I submit the best overall long-term investments on ocean front properties considering get-in costs and the potential for appreciation are in Nicaragua. If you know of other developments inside or outside of Nicaragua that can compete with these investment opportunities, I invite you to write a comment and tell us why.
Next Post: Granada vs. Antigua. Perhaps you’re ready to make a bigger commitment and live for an extended period in your new getaway home. If you are considering living away from your primary residence for a few months at a time you might be interested in a location with more culture than waves lapping on the beach.
