Question 1

HOW MUCH SHOULD I PAY TAXES UPON PURCHASE?

Accepted Answer

After closing of purchase on any property in Nicaragua, there is Federal Tax, Municipal tax and Registration fee must be paid.
Federal Tax depends on property appraisal made by the municipality. Here is a table of how to calculate Federal tax:

Practice shows that the municipality is interested to appraise property higher than actual sale price.
For example, you purchased property for $30 000USD. You have to pay Federal tax 1% ($300 USD), but the municipality appraisal decided the actual cost of property is $55 000 USD and you have to pay 2% from $55 000 USD Federal tax ($1 100 USD).

The second tax must be paid after closing is Municipal tax. It is always 1% of appraised value.

And the third is a Registration Fee in the fixed amount of $1000 USD.

Question 2

WHAT ARE PROPERTY TAXES?

Accepted Answer

Annual property taxes of 0.8% are paid on the assessed value of your property to the local municipality of San Juan Del Sur. There is a 10% discount available  if paid in the first three months of the year.

Question 3

HOW DOES LAND OWNERSHIP WORK AT VALLE DE SAMSARA?

Accepted Answer

Your ownership of land at "Valle de Samsara" is held as Freehold through a "Fee Simple Title," which means you have complete and unencumbered ownership. Once you've acquired property at "Valle de Samsara," you have the freedom to resell it without any limitations or restrictions.

Question 4

IS THERE AN HOA FEE?

Accepted Answer

Temporary HOA fees will be billed on a quarterly basis, specifically in April, August, and December. These fees will be divided into manageable installments of US$200 (equivalent to US$50 per month). Once 50% of the lots have been sold, the payment structure will change to quarterly installments of US$700 (equivalent to US$175 per month). Owners also have the option to make advance payments.

Question 5

ARE THERE RESTRICTIONS ON WHAT I CAN BUILD?

Accepted Answer

We offer a variety of home models with our own designs, allowing you the flexibility to choose and customize your dream home from the ground up to turn-key completion. At "Valle de Samsara," you're encouraged to embark on the journey of custom-building your home, and we're here to provide guidance every step of the way.

Our Architectural Committee will carefully review your design plans to ensure they align with specific guidelines aimed at minimizing earth disturbance, respecting neighboring setbacks, adhering to height restrictions, and selecting external finish materials that contribute to the enhancement and preservation of the natural beauty of "Valle de Samsara." Your vision and our expertise will come together to create a harmonious community.

Question 6

WHAT ARE BUILDING COSTS?

Accepted Answer

Estimating construction costs involves taking multiple factors into account. Our homes begin at $160,000 USD for a 3-bedroom turnkey home, inclusive of appliances. Your final costs will depend on your choices and approach.

If you lean towards the lower end, you may opt for more cost-effective materials and invest your time in overseeing the construction process. On the higher end, you might choose luxurious or imported materials and collaborate with a reputable builder for a premium finish. It's important to note that regardless of your choice, you will need to navigate the building permitting process with the local Municipality.

Question 7

HOW DO I GET TOPOGRAPHY FOR MY LOT?

Accepted Answer

Topographic surveys with a 1-meter resolution can be obtained for an estimated cost of $500 and typically require 1 to 2 weeks to be finalized.

Question 8

WHEN DO I HAVE TO BUILD?

Accepted Answer

Our aim is to have individuals who are committed to building a community at "Valle de Samsara," so ideally, our property owners initiate their construction projects within a 3-year timeframe from the date of closing.

Question 9

HOW IS VALLE DE SAMSARA SECURED?

Accepted Answer

The community is under the continuous surveillance of security personnel around the clock, and access to the community is exclusively granted with a valid permit, which is included in the HOA fee. For construction projects, it's mandatory to have on-site security after regular hours to safeguard equipment and other assets.

Question 10

IS THERE WATER TO MY PROPERTY? WHAT ARE THE COSTS?

Accepted Answer

"Valle de Samsara" has its own well, and water is pumped up to reservoir tanks, from where it flows by gravity to the property lines. The water cost is determined by monthly usage for each completed house and ranges from $20 USD to $50 USD per month. It's worth noting that water is affordably priced in Nicaragua.

Question 11

IS HIGH SPEED INTERNET AVAILABLE?

Accepted Answer

"Valle De Samsara" will offer high-speed fiber internet, and we've also established a pre-agreement with one of Nicaragua's leading providers, "Claro," known for its excellent speed and reasonable pricing. Once we are prepared, we will connect to their network to ensure residents have access to reliable internet services.

Question 12

CAN I RUN A BUSINESS OUT OF VALLE DE SAMSARA?

Accepted Answer

Most types of businesses are welcome at "Valle de Samsara," with the exception of commercial farming or activities that might disrupt neighbors and hotels that would pose competition to our existing businesses and investments within the community.

Question 13

CAN I RENT MY PLACE OUT AT VALLE DE SAMSARA?

Accepted Answer

You have the freedom to make that choice. Additionally, we will provide a property management program for residences within our community. We can handle the upkeep of your property, ensuring it remains in a guest-ready condition while you are away.

Question 14

WHAT IS THE COST OF LIVING IN NICARAGUA?

Accepted Answer

Nicaragua offers one of the world's most affordable living costs, which is why prestigious publications like Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, BBC, The Globe and Mail, and more consistently rank it as a top destination for retirement. While imported goods and branded products may come with higher prices due to shipping costs, embracing the locally available excellent foods and products can significantly enhance your purchasing power. Additionally, Nicaragua provides access to excellent healthcare services at a remarkably low cost or free compared to many other countries, making it an exceptional value.

Question 15

I'M READY TO MOVE TO NICARAGUA TOMORROW. HOW DO I DO IT?

Accepted Answer

We find it pleasantly surprising how frequently this question arises nowadays, and we're delighted to address it. Here's the recommended approach:

1. Acquire your land/property at "Valle de Samsara."
2. Consider renting a home in the SJDS area – we can connect you with the most reliable contacts for assistance in this regard.
3. Immerse yourself and your family in the community, engaging in the final stages of your home's finishing and fit-out. This proactive involvement will ensure you're well-prepared to move in as soon as possible!

Question 16

WHERE DO I SEND MY KIDS TO SCHOOL?

Accepted Answer

You'll be delighted to know that there are various outstanding private educational options in the vicinity. Explore these options: San Juan del Sur Day School and Escuela Adelante. Additionally, there are several local free schools available in town.

Frequently asked questions