Monday, December 31, 2012

New Year's Eve Morning View from Costa Rica!

Best Wishes for 2013 from Costa Rica! 


Come visit us during the new year!


Fly to direct to Liberia International Airport (LIR), one hour from this view!

Realtors - Get your CIPS Designation in Costa Rica at the beach in February! Email to becky@bwpcr.com for the brochure.


Contact us anytime with your Costa Rica questions! (crresinfo@gmail.com)


Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Leading Costa Rica REALTORS® to Focus on Social Media Integration with Costa Rica MLS


Costa Rica MLS Listings and Social Media Search Tools Set to First Appear on Facebook Business Pages of Costa Rica REALTORS® in December!



      

The Costa Rica Global Association of REALTORS® (CRGAR), will be offering a series of special professional events on Monday, December 10, 2012, in Playa Hermosa, Carrillo, Guanacaste. These events will focus on the emerging importance of social media tools and services to the real estate industry and CRGAR members, new services and features of the Costa Rica MLS (CRMLS), CRGAR’s 2013 membership policies and fees, “hands-on” training for using new social media resources and new features of CRMLS, and will conclude with CRGAR’s Holiday Cocktail Party, a short distance away at the El Velero Hotel on the beach. 

These events are open to all real estate agents, brokers, developers, franchise networks, and allied professionals. We also hope to welcome professionals from other parts of Costa Rica and neighboring countries who are interested in adding some of CRGAR’s services in their home markets, to network with Costa Rica, and who may be considering new database support.

The event is organized into sessions as follows:



1) 10:00AM-11:00AM -The Emerging Integration of Social Media with MLS Databases – A New Dimension in Listing/Agent Syndication.

CRGAR has arranged for an expert from the United States to lead this discussion and be available throughout the day. Until recently, Pablo Ceron was a REALTOR® in Miami, and he is also the developer of SocialSearch, a Facebook application for real estate professionals and businesses, acquired by Proxio. SocialSearch will be available to all users of the Costa Rica MLS for the first time on December 10th.

 


Pablo is now a part of the Proxio Global Team, is bi-lingual English/Spanish, and is deeply involved in all areas of social media. He will discuss how social media applies to the real estate industry now, and how it is likely to evolve in the near future. His appearance will give attendees special insights to the state of the art in social media, and special assistance with starting your SocialSearch account on CRMLS.

Pablo’s SocialSearch team is also considering an enhanced SocialSearch product for developers and large projects – with either in-house sales or contracts with outside real estate professionals. The intent is to provide enhanced global project marketing with seamless integration to other SocialSearch users. He would like a chance to share these ideas with representatives of projects and get feedback for product planning. 

2) 11:00AM-Noon – New Features and Services of the Costa Rica MLS

Starting on December 10, 2012, the Costa Rica ML will offer its users new services and features, as well as some policy revisions. Others are in the pipeline and will be demonstrated on December 10th for release in early 2013. All changes are intended to make CRMLS more useful and effective for your professional purposes. The new items include:


SocialSearch by ProxioA detailed explanation of the new social media connection between CRMLS and Facebook (as Phase 1 of SocialSearch), and the advantages of Facebook Business Pages, if you do not already have one. (Individual “hands-on” training will be part of the 2:30PM session in the afternoon.)




Listing Syndication to UniqueHomes.com
A new, free outlet for listings above a certain minimum asking price.

New Landing Pages for Accounts(Demo only Dec 10) – A new page that opens after an agent logs in to CRMLS. The format will include an overview of activity of your listings, your syndication channels, your network, your colleagues in CRMLS, and the Proxio system.


“Featured Listing” WidgetsProxio is releasing new custom widgets that will scroll images and basic information about your listings, which also work as links to them in the database.


Listing Syndication to ListGlobally.com/Worldposting.com – (coming in 2013) – 2 of the largest global syndication networks will be available on a selective basis.


         
 


Window Flyer
– First of new flyer formats.

Mobile Ready
– Update on progress toward CRMLS being available on mobile, hand-held devices.

3) 2:30PM-4:00PM – “Hands On” Clinic for CRMLS Users

This session is primarily designed to  help CRMLS users install SocialSearch. It will have a “free” format, to also respond to any type of questions from CRMLS users and/or CRGAR candidate members.

Bring your devices to connect to the internet and install SocialSearch in your CRMLS account before leaving the Embassy Theater. If you do not have a Facebook Business Page, create one before December 10. Or, if you need Facebook assistance, a session about creating a Business Page will be part of this clinic.

General assistance will be available for new and existing users from CRMLS resource people, Pam Wright, Alberto Triquell, and Allen Lungo, as well as other experienced, CRGAR members. As requested, a small group demonstration of the basic CRMLS system will be possible for member candidates.

4) 4:30PM-? – CRGAR Holiday Cocktail Party (cash bar) at Hotel Velero, Playa Hermosa

We will conclude our December 10th events with our Holiday Cocktail Party with sunsets, appetizers courtesy of Mike Simons and RE/MAX Tres Amigos, a “50/50” cash raffle, and a chance to enjoy the season’s spirit with your peers.

Thank you for your attention, and we look forward to seeing you on December 10th in Playa Hermosa!

Costa Rica Global Association of REALTORS®
























Friday, November 16, 2012

Costa Rica REALTOR® Institute Offers International Designation - "Certified International Property Specialist" - February 11-15, 2013


"Designation Vacation" at the Beach in Costa Rica!

The Costa Rica Global Association of REALTORS® (CRGAR) is offering more details for its second annual Costa Rica CIPS Institute during the week of February 11-15, 2013. The "Certified International Property Specialist" (CIPS) Designation is one of the most prestigious credentials a REALTOR® can earn, especially with globalization of real estate sales increasing year after year. 




The CIPS Institute is scheduled for the week of Valentines Day, offering added incentives to come to Costa Rica with a loved one who will help share a "Designation Vacation". 

During that same week, CIPS companion golfers will be welcome to play in the charity "Have a Heart Golf Tournament", at Hacienda Pinilla, benefiting area educational programs. Details are available through CRGAR.






David Wyant - Awarded "2012 Instructor of the Year" on November 10th by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) in Orlando!

Instructor for 2013 Costa Rica CIPS Institute 
David Wyant congratulated on his award by Teresa Kinney (R), CEO of Miami Realtors, the largest local REALTOR® association in the United States, and Janet Branton (L), Senior Vice-President of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), with headquarters in Chicago, Illinois.



Tuition for the 5-day experience is $600.00 (USD) for attendees who have paid by December 1, 2012. Credit cards are accepted. Tuition increases monthly afterward. Accommodations are available for all budgets and include both hotels and vacation rental condominiums.




Request our full brochure, registration form, and travel information from Becky Clower, Broker, at Blue Water Properties: becky@bwpcr.com.









The 2012 Costa Rica CIPS Institute (this past January) was a great success, drawing attendees from Canada, Costa Rica, and many states in the US. 

Photos of the events are available on www.crgar.com. 












CRGAR appreciates anything you can do to help us spread the word about the 2013 Costa Rica CIPS Institute among, colleagues, friends, and families. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Costa Rica!


CRGAR is the only real estate association in Latin America requiring all of its members to belong to the National Association of REALTORS® while applying its Standards for Professional Practice. Visit www.crgar.com for an overview.








CRGAR also offers The Costa Rica MLS, displaying agent members and their property listings. (Powered by Proxio)

Best Regards,

The Costa Rica Global Association of REALTORS® 

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Florida Gulf Coast Real Estate Tour Offered by Pinellas REALTORS®

November Events Offer Property/Office Tours, Speakers from Costa Rica/Belize/Mexico/NAR, and Receptions at Dali and Chihuly Museums.


The Pinellas Realtor® Organization and the Pinellas International Council will host international and local practitioners for a three day Pinellas County experience.



The Florida Gulf Coast Tour will take place immediately following the National Association of REALTORS® Annual Convention in Orlando (Nov. 12-15, 2012). It will give local REALTORS® an opportunity to connect with their international peers and build professional and personal relationships. The tour will showcase the unique Florida Gulf Coast lifestyle with property tours, office visits, local arts, culture and cuisine. 

Among the arts highlights will be tours of the Salvador Dali and Chihuly Museums,  both cultural gems of Florida's Gulf Coast.
















During the morning of Tuesday, November 13th, speakers from 3 Latin American countries and NAR will offer perspectives for attendees. They include:

    Allen Lungo - President, Costa Rica Global Association of REALTORS®
    Macarena Rose Founder, Belize National Association of REALTORS®
    Carlos Fuentes - NAR Regional Coordinator - North America, Central America and Caribbean
    Velia Amparo Rivas - Region I Coordinator for México National Association of REALTORS®

Bus service from NAR/Orlando to the Florida Gulf Coast Tour will be available on Monday morning, November 12th. Please contact Michelle Schaefferkoetter  at 727-216-3031 or ms@tampabayrealtor.com for pricing and registration information. 

Event flyer:



Wednesday, October 3, 2012

CIPS Institute Returns to Costa Rica - Plan Your February 2013 "Designation Vacation"


2nd Annual CIPS Institute Set for Week of Valentine's Day, 2013!

The Costa Rica Global Association of REALTORS® (CRGAR) is pleased to announce sponsorship of a second annual Costa Rica CIPS Institute during the week of February 11-15, 2013. The "Certified International Property Specialist" (CIPS) Designation is one of the most prestigious credentials a REALTORS® can earn, especially with globalization of real estate sales increasing each month. (And, bring your "Valentine" for that special beach vacation during Costa Rica's sunniest season.)

Request our full brochure from becky@bwpcr.com, including rates.


The 2013 Costa Rica CIPS Institute will offer a full set of 5 courses from Monday to Friday for anyone wanting to taking them all at once, or just finish off the last ones needed for the designation. Our brochure provides a complete overview, as well as the dates set aside for each course. The instructor will be the renowned David Wyant, teaching in English. You will also find contact information for travel advice and attendee coordination through our CRGAR Board Member and CIPS Institute Chairman, Becky Clower.




The past 2012 Costa Rica CIPS Institute (January) was a great success, drawing attendees from Canada, Costa Rica, and many states in the US. Photos of the events are available on www.crgar.com. The week also included sunset receptions hosted by supporting developments and organizations, organized dinners, and a closing party to congratulate the graduates. A 2013 event schedule will be published for attendees.




We also appreciate anything you can do to help us spread the word about the 2013 Costa Rica CIPS Institute among, colleagues, friends, and families. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Costa Rica!

CRGAR is the only real estate association in Latin America requiring all of its members to belong to the National Association of REALTORS® while apply its Standards for Professional Practice. Visit www.crgar.com for an overview.

CRGAR also offers The Costa Rica MLS, displaying agent members and their property listings. (Powered by Proxio)

Best Regards,

The Costa Rica Global Association of REALTORS® 

Friday, January 20, 2012

Coldwell Banker Costa Rica in National Participation Agreement with Costa Rica Realtors



Precedent-Setting Accord Between Coldwell Banker Costa Rica and Costa Rica Global Association of REALTORS® Unites Both Organizations for Professionalism and Global Marketing

January 10, 2012 - Playas del Coco, Costa Rica: An agreement between the Coldwell Banker Costa Rica Master Franchisor (CBCR), Coldwell Banker Costa Rica Master Franchise, and the Costa Rica GlobalAssociation of REALTORS® (CRGAR) will offer all Coldwell Banker professionals and offices in Costa Rica special incentives for participation as CRGAR members and Costa Rica MLS (CRMLS) users. In addition, all Costa Rica 

listings from the CBCR property listing database will soon be syndicated to the Costa Rica MLS. Currently, there are dozens of professionals working in the CBCR network of 10 offices across Costa Rica. This far-reaching agreement was the result of the efforts of Linda Gray, CBCR Master Franchise President,  Jose Daniel Rodriguez, CBCR Manager, Alberto Triquell, 
CRGAR Vice-President, and Allen                   Lungo, CRGAR President.

Linda Gray, CBCR Master Franchisor and Playas del Coco Coldwell Banker Broker, commented, “we are pleased to align our network’s business goals with those of CRGAR. Both organizations are emphasizing professionalism in the practice of real estate in Costa Rica, and global networking to offer Costa Rica’s properties to investors around the world.” CRGAR members automatically get membership in the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in the United States, and a user account on the Costa Rica MLS.





“Our agreement includes the automatic syndication of CBCR listings to the Costa Rica MLS”, added Jose Daniel Rodriguez, CBCR Manager, “which will connect CBCR listings and professionals to the CRMLS network of over 400,000 worldwide realtors and websites such as World Properties”.

  
              
Linda Gray, Jose Daniel Rodriguez 
               and Allen Lungo (R-L)



























The dream of Costa Rica property ownership is shared around the world
                       


The Costa Rica MLS is built on the Proxio Global Platform. Janet Case, Proxio CEO, offered, “We are pleased to see the continued evolution of the Costa Rica MLS into the most professional national system in the country. Partnerships, like this one with Coldwell Banker Costa Rica, are exactly what our platform is designed to support with ease and convenience.”

Costa Rica’s real estate professionals and franchise networks, interested in CRGAR’s programs and incentive plans, can get more information by contacting info@crgar.com.

About CBCR
Coldwell Banker Costa Rica has 10 offices covering Costa Rica from the beautiful north Pacific beaches of Guanacaste, through the Nicoya Peninsula, the Central Pacific Coast, San Jose, and down to the intriguing Osa Peninsula.

For a detailed online look at the CBCXR network:

• Coldwell Banker Costa Rica - www.coldwellbankercostarica.com
• Coldwell Banker Coast To Coast Properties, Playas del Coco - www.coldwellbankercr.com
• Coldwell Banker Beach Properties, Brasilito - www.coldwellbankerbeachproperties.com
• Coldwell Banker Tamarindo Realty - www.coldwellbankertamarindo.com
• Coldwell Banker Del Mar Realty, Nosara - www.coldwellbankernosara.com
• Coldwell Banker Samara Dreamland Properties - www.coldwellbankersamara.com
• Coldwell Banker Vesta Group Manuel Antonio (Quepos) & Coldwell Banker Vesta Group Manuel Antonio (Manuel Antonio) - www.cb-manuelantonio.com
• Coldwell Banker Vesta Group Dominical - www.dominicalrealty.com
• Coldwell Banker Curridabat Realty - www.curridabatrealty.com
• Coldwell Banker Occidental - www.coldwellbankeroccidental.com

About CRGAR
The Costa Rica Global Association of REALTORS® (CRGAR), is affiliated with the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) in the United States, and is the only such association in Central America to require its members to become individual members of NAR, as well. CRGAR offers REALTOR® training classes, ethical enforcement, peer-licensing, international affiliations, special events, and access to the Costa Rica MLS.

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Costa Rica CIPS Institute Continues with Studies, Sunsets, Beach Club

Intense training with excursions and guest speakers....


January 12, 2012, Tamarindo, Costa Rica - Days 2 and 3 of the 5-day training program leading to the NAR designation of "Certified International Property Specialist" continued in Costa Rica, highlighted by an oceanfront sunset reception and dinner at an exclusive beach club.


Attendee, Nancy from Arcadia, California, enthusiastically commented, "I am so glad this CIPS Institute is being offered here, and at this time. The content exceeds my expectations, the instructor (David Wyant) is terrific, and a January break in Costa Rica......is beautiful!"


Enjoy the photo gallery...


         Full moon setting over the ocean each morning...                 
        
          Class presentations are part of the courses.....





Sunset reception at Tamarindo Preserve Model Home




Dinner at Tamarindo Preserve Langosta Beach Club


The daily exam........



See you here next year?



















Monday, January 9, 2012

2012 Costa Rica CIPS Institute "Designation Vacation" Kicks Off Today!

Attendees Gather from Canada, the USA, and Costa Rica to Earn Prestigious NAR Designation...



January 9, 2012, Tamarindo, Costa Rica: The first CIPS Institute to be held on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica kicked off today at the Diria Hotel Conference Center in Tamarindo. This beach community is a global vacation destination which has emerged over the last 15 years around its world-class surfing beach.

















Over 20 total participants are gathering in Costa Rica this week with instructor, David Wyant, to complete the class requirements to earn the NAR Designation, "Certified international Property Specialist" (CIPS).


























The courses are being sponsored by the Costa Rica Global Association of REALTORS® (CRGAR), Costa Rica's only real estate association in which every member is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in the United States. CRGAR also offers the Costa Rica MLS, Costa Rica's only property database built on the Proxio Global platform, offering the widest global syndication available to its local realtors.








CIPS attendees enjoyed lunch on the banyon-shaded terrace of the restaurant in the Diria Hotel.

The restaurant terrace faces the Main Surfing Beach in Tamarindo with ocean breezes adding to the dining experience

The luncheon guest and speaker was Donovan Garcia, a representative of CATURGUA - the tourism bureau of the Guancaste Province.