Archive for July 12th, 2010
Monday, July 12th, 2010
Will that be cash or plastic has been a favourite question by many retailers in Costa Rica, for the price if often adjusted if the purchase is made by cash.
Well, that practice may soon end, as the Ministerio de Economía, Industria y Comercio (MEIC), intends to enforce article 26 of the new “Reglamento de tarjetas de crédito y débito” approved on March 30, 2010.
The MEIC says the price of purchase should be the same if paid by cash or credit or debit card.
The regulation ends the practice of retailers offering customers a lower or “special” price to consumers who pay cash instead of a credit or debit card, thus avoiding the 2% to 10% charge by card processors to merchants.
Katia Chaves, head of the Departamento Técnico de la Comisión de Apoyo al Consumidor of the MEIC said merchants must clean their act and concern themselves with applying the regulations correclty.
The cost of violating (fine) the regulation is 40 base salaries.
In addition to the regulations of the merchants, the Reglamento also puts more burden on card issuers to better inform their customers, explaining fully the terms of the card and the statements being clear on all charges that appear.
In addition, credit card issuers cannot harass their customers on collections.
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Monday, July 12th, 2010
Gary Michelson, a spine surgeon, inventor and prominent Brentwood philanthropist, has filed a lawsuit against Neil Campbell, his former best friend and partner in a series of Costa Rica teak tree farm investments.
Michelson claims Campbell and Costa Rican partner Philip Powell looted his tree farm investments and he will be seeking $20 million in damages when the trial begins this summer unless a settlement is reached. Luke Dauchot, who is Michelson’s lawyer in the current case, also represented the Brentwood billionaire when he received a $1.35 billion settlement from Medtronic, Inc. in a dispute over spinal devices invented by Michelson.
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Monday, July 12th, 2010
The Costa Rican border in the Talamanca region is on high alert due to the protests and disturbances by banana workers in Bocas del Toro in Panama, as Friday’s clash with police resulted in one death, four policemen taken hostage and more than 100 injured.
Costa Rican officials fear that the violence could move north.
The areas in Panama affected are Guabito, which on Friday was desolate, not one shop opening its doors, while several stores were looted in Las Tablas and Changinola.
The Cruz Roja Costarricense (Costa Rican Red Cross) has sent more manpower to the border to assist the injured in Panama who do not have medical help available.
The border crossing at Sixaola is the crossing point affected. Reports indicate that Panamanians seeking refuge in Costa Rica are being stopped at the border by Panamanian officials.
The border crossing at Paso Canoas is not affected, though there is an increased alert.
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Monday, July 12th, 2010
Many people who are purchasing real estate in Costa Rica are now going with Costa Rica real estate companies to help them complete their deals, which is a great idea. Without these companies, it is much riskier to purchase real estate in Costa Rica. However, Costa Rica real estate companies can provide help and safety when you are making an investment in real estate that is located in Costa Rica. When you are considering making a purchase in Costa Rica and you want a good company, there are a few things that you will want to keep in mind before you choose a company. The following are a few important things to do before you decide on one company for your real estate needs.
Check Their Reputation
First of all, when you are considering Costa Rica real estate companies, you’ll want to take the time to check out their reputation. Find out if the company has a good name and if they have done well for other people in the past. If you know other people who have purchase Costa Rica real estate, consider asking them which company they choose for their needs. Also, if you hear or read anything bad about a specific company, more than likely you are not going to want to use it yourself.
Make Sure They Work with Licensed Agents
Another important thing to check when you are considering different Costa Rica real estate companies is to make sure that the company you choose works with real estate agents that are licensed. You’ll find that Costa Rica does not require agents to be licensed, but it is best when they are. So, look for a company that only works with agents that do have a license in real estate.
Compare Prices
Most of these companies do charge for their services, so that means you’ll want to take the time to compare prices before choosing from the many Costa Rica real estate companies. Of course compare their services as well, and work to find the best price for the best service possible.
To find the home you are looking for check here www.GapRealEstate.com
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