About us

YESTERDAY,

TODAY, AND

TOMORROW.

HONORING THE PAST WHILE

INNOVATING FOR THE FUTURE

San José / Valle Central / Costa Rica

A VISION
OF THE
FUTURE:

PROMOTING THE BEAUTY OF THE LAND
WHILE CREATING THE ULTIMATE LIVING EXPERIENCE

Parque Valle del Sol was founded on the pursuit of a dream: to create a unique and innovative living experience in an idyllic paradise.
That dream has become a reality and continues to grow as planned. This exclusive golf residence is Located in the picturesque Costa Rica, a country under constant development attracting international investors and generated extensive tourism.
The Parque Valle del Sol project was conceived in line with standards of excellence with an eye not only on today, but on tomorrow, too.
Parque Valle del Sol was created with the idea of surpassing expectations by striving to create a concept of living in harmony with the pristine elements of the environment.
From the implementation of urban infrastructure, to the investment in maintaining the surrounding ecosystem, everything was studied and projected with meticulous attention to detail.

Parque Valle del Sol was developed with a long-term vision. The company was structured to be executed and commercialized in stages, over the years to come. Planning was focused on changing the lifestyle of the local population and on expanding San José. The capital’s potential for growth makes Parque Valle del Sol a prime and highly regarded residential option. A new space within the capital of Costa Rica, on an area of high perceived-value among city residents, families from different regions of the country and from abroad looking for better quality of life. Parque Valle Del Sol certainly is the right choice.

A company designed with today and tomorrow in mind, based on a vision of the future. The success of this urbanistic creation is based on this premise. As such, a multidisciplinary team of professionals and companies was vital to both its institution and preservation.

Boasting a bold architectural plan, Parque Valle del Sol highlights the importance of preserving the harmony of the natural environment while offering all the conveniences of modern living.

These are the unequaled variables that make Parque Valle del Sol the perfect illustration of a planned community. This residential and sporting megaproject is a pioneering and innovative example of regional transformation–transforming an undervalued and unexplored area through first-rate marketing and turning it into one of the highest valued properties in the Costa Rican capital.

The company, which urbanized and developed an area of 137,000 ha, is a veritable residential megaproject. In fact, it led the way in bolstering a region that has become the most highly-valued in San José: Santa Ana. Back in the 90s, this area was greatly undervalued; however, as a direct result of the development and real estate success of Parque Valle del Sol, it has become a leading hub of luxury residences in the Costa Rican capital.

Advanced and progressive, Parque Valle del Sol is a project of great magnitude which generated a new real estate frontier with great success. The development has elevated the relevance of the region as a whole. The value of the lots of Parque Valle del Sol have risen an impressive 670% since its launch.

A visionary tale, a successful today, and a promising tomorrow for new investments and business, in an already winning project.

COSTA RICA: A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY

Located in Central America with a population of 4.8 million people; the country is bordered by Nicaragua to the north, the Caribbean Sea to the east, Panama to the southeast, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The Pacific Ocean’s Cocos Island also falls within Costa Rican territory. San José is recognized internationally for having hosted the Inter-American Specialized Conference on Human Rights of 1969. It is still the seat of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, hearing and ruling on cases of human rights violations in signatory nations.

Costa Rica is home to one of the longest standing democracies in the Americas and is the only Latin American nation featured on the list of the world’s 22 oldest democracies. The country abolished the military forces on December 1, 1948, creating in its stead a National Security Force, which was constitutionally implemented in 1949.

Following conflict with the National Army, supported by communist guerrillas, the newly inducted president José Figueres Ferrer dissolved the country’s military forces under the pretext that security could be maintained through a police force. This led to political stability that has allowed the Costa Rican economic and social sectors to flourish.

Additionally, during the 20th century, while dictatorships spread throughout the American continent, Costa Rica has remained free from authoritarian governments that have used force to maintain a stronghold over their nations.

Thus, contrary to the majority of Central American nations, Costa Rica has never faced coups or civil war following the abdication of the national army.

COSTA RICA OFFERS AN EXCELLENT SCENARIO FOR INVESTMENTS AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF IMPORTANT INTERNATIONAL COMPANIES, THANKS TO THE HIGH ACADEMIC LEVEL OF THE POPULATION, THE SUPERB STANDARD OF MODERN SERVICES AND ITS SOCIAL AND POLITICAL STABILITY.

The savings garnered through military spending cuts is redirected towards investments in education and health, with 96% of the population literate and a life expectancy rate of 78 years. These indicators are comparable with developed nations. It is currently home to the seventh best Human Development Index in Latin America and ranks second in Central America. In 2010, the UNDP (United Nation development Program) showcased Costa Rica among the

few nations to have reached greater human development compared to other countries with the same level of per capita income. The combination of political stability, a social compact and constant growth have resulted in one of the lowest poverty rates in Latin America and the Caribbean. Its success in recent decades is also reflected in its strong human development indexes, which continue to outpace other nations from the region.

Thanks to a successful history of development and considered a medium-to-high income nation, Costa Rica has enjoyed stable economic expansion over the past 25 years. Great economic advances since the 1980s are the product of a growth strategy focused on the international market, and based on opening up to foreign investments and the gradual trade liberalization. The country exercises a leading global role through its progressive environmental policies and initiatives, which have helped to build its Green Seal. The pioneering program, Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES), has been widely successful in promoting the conservation of forests and biodiversity.
All of these measures have led to Costa Rica being classified as the only tropical country in the world to reverse deforestation. It produces around 90% of its electricity needs through renewable sources. Around 30% of its territory is composed of conserved natural areas. A pioneer in sustainability, it serves as a model of sustainable practices for myriad industries in the region and around the rest of the world.
Costa Rica is also one of the most-loved tourist destinations on the planet. Extending from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea, the variety of landscapes and microclimates that span these 200 miles from coast to coast can be enjoyed on the same day. The country is one of the few in the world where two major oceans are separated by a distance of no more than 6 hours. This makes it possible to surf the Pacific Ocean in the morning and end the swimming with turtles in the Atlantic as the sun sets. This is, without doubt, a surfer’s paradise. Although the country is made up of just 51,000 km2, travelers will find sunny beaches, adventure, nature, and culture; everything to satisfy the tastes of millions of tourists that flock to Costa Rica for their dream vacation.

COSTA RICA
INDUSTRY
CONDITIONS

Pristine real estate has always been in high demand especially due to foreign buyers securing properties along the coast and in resorts. Favorable ownership rights grant foreigners the same ownership rights as nationals, making Costa Rica a hot spot for international investors.

Why invest in Costa Rican real estate?

• Property laws are the same for nationals and foreigner unlike any other country in Central and South America.

• Exquisite landscape and biodiversity.

• Great tax incentives and one of the lowest property tax rates in the developed world.

• The country offers an affordable and highly educated labor force.

• Territorial tax system is an added motivator.

• Land can be both leased or purchased; and the residential sales process is almost identical to that in the United States.

• Most of the properties are bought and sold via a legal entity often with a mother company based out of the United States.

Additionally, with similar growth to that of the foreign buyers sector, the Central Valley (especially San Jose) has benefited from expansion in several areas including commercial, business, and residential developments.

Comparable to many other countries, shopping malls, business complexes, residential developments and other high- density development plans have become popular.

Perhaps this phenomenon is due to the high paced growth and more educated consumers from around the world demand this type of infrastructure.

Key investments in strategic areas have transformed many previously unknown areas into high demand real estate. This boom, as discussed, can be mainly attributed to foreign investors who have the means to create joint ventures between locals and other foreigners, via REITS (although these real estate Investment trusts remain a relatively new means of investing in real estate in the country). Costa Rica has remained stable, but pay close attention to the coming years, as demand is projected to skyrocket here once again, creating a positive real estate growth outlook as the global economy strengthens.

We remain confident that the many facets which life in Costa Rica has to offer will continue to strengthen demand, making Costa Rica one of the most sought-after areas in the world.

San José:

POLITICAL, ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL HUB

San José is the most populous province in the country. Located on the Central Mesa, it extends towards the northeast, traversing the impressive mountains of the Cordillera Central, which is home to national parks, forest reserves and fertile land dotted with coffee plantations. The capital is located in Vale Central, formed by a sweeping plane surrounded by majestic volcanoes and green highlands that attest to the natural wealth spread throughout its territory. The city, founded in the first half of the 18th century, is today a melting pot of visitors from all over the world; it is a city filled with places of interest, as well as faces and colors that reflect the history of its people. It boasts diverse examples of architecture, just like the people that circulate throughout its streets. The northern district of the city is home to more refined examples of urbanism from the past century. There are a vast number of homes and buildings with European inspiration, but built with the solidity of Costa Rican style. Among some of the most notable locations, the National Theater, is considered the pride of Costa Rica. The theater served as the historic home to some of the very best national and foreign artists. The theater was inaugurated in 1897, resulting from the endeavors of traders, intellectuals, and politicians who were quick to identify the importance of an opera house that could stage some of the world’s premier productions. Also of note are the world-class museums, parks, hotels, theaters and historic buildings, among an array of other options that delight the millions of annual visitors to San José. There are dozens of day-long tours to all the best spots, both inside and outside of Vale Central. For the more adventurous type, the country also boasts a huge variety of adventure sports and ecotourism options.

PARQUE VALLE DEL SOL:

A PLACE WERE DREAMS AND REALITY COINCIDE

Parque Valle del Sol is a planned exclusive golf residence minutes away from the finest restaurants, stores, entertainment, world-class schools, and commercial facilities available in Costa Rica. It is ideally placed in Santa Ana, 18 km or about 25 minutes from downtown San José.
Parque Valle del Sol is the largest and most exclusive planned community in Vale Central.
Located west of the capital, the development is spread over 137 hectares and dotted with luxury homes which sit on one of the country’s top golf courses. The community also boasts a top-notch tennis club (eight open courts and two closed), a playground, and private nature reserve. The architecture of the homes interacts seamlessly with the area which is home to a wildlife sanctuary perfect for birdwatching and filled with rich fauna and flora. The entire piece of paradise which is home to some 350 permanent families (around 1,500 people) is bounded by a protective green belt. There is nowhere else quite like it.

Parque Valle del Sol Golf offers a spectacular 18-hole golf course, spread over 60 hectares of breathtaking greens stippled with lakes. A unique golfing experience, in harmony with nature and set within the beautiful landscapes and exceptional climate of Santa Ana. Certified as a Wildlife Sanctuary by Audubon International, the most renowned ecology organization in the world of golf, Parque Valle del Sol is the first and only golf course in the region certified by this organization.
Home to the biggest golf academy in the country, it hosts professional and amateur golf tournaments throughout the year. 10 meticulously maintained tennis courts (2 covered) are also available for leisure and/or lessons with excellent coaches. Both the golf course and tennis academy are

treated as business units for entrepreneurs, and are reverted into revenue, which goes beyond maintenance costs.
Some of Costa Rica’s most notable families live in Parque Valle del Sol. Senior executives from multinational companies, directors of NGOs and other VIPS have chosen to call this place home, making the Parque Valle del Sol community incredibly diverse and international.
Its location just a stone’s throw from Rota 27, one of Costa Rica’s newest roadways, which means a quick transfer to the airport–a mere 15 minutes away; or perhaps spend the day exploring the Pacific coastline–only an hour away.

GOLF:

COURSE DESIGN EXCELLENCE OF AN INTERNATIONAL STANDARD

Breathtaking greens and fairways makeup the exquisite 18-hole championship golf course. At 6,945 yards, it is a PAR 72 and an inspiring fusion of challenge and beauty.

Designed by renowned North American architect, Tracy May and built to USGA regulations, the eco-friendly course is filled with majestic trees and large lakes that attract diverse wildlife.

The Parque Valle de Sol Golf Academy hosts all levels of professional and beginner instruction. A team of six highly qualified instructors are on hand to teach or improve technique through a range of individual or group instruction programs.

Experienced instructors outline the best way to learn the sport, developing maximum performance.
Existing buildings:
• Two administrative towers (President’s Office – sales, finances – accounting)
• Golf ProShop
• Buraco 19 (Restaurant)
• 3 bathrooms
• Workshop and equipment maintenance stand

Existing services:
• 18 holes / Par 72
• Driving Range
• Putting Green to chip, pitch and putt with sand bunker
• Electric golf cart hire
• Premium brand golf club lease
• Pro Shop
• Cafeteria (Buraco 19)
• Golf Academy with a variety of instructional programs for children, teens, and adults, as well as group golf clinics.
• Organized tournaments and corporate ranking

Get Golf Ready Program

A beginner’s program created by PGA-USA, through which students get the opportunity to interact with this wonderful sport effectively, through a fast, enjoyable and easy-to-learn method that is sure to turn you into a golfer. The course consists of 5 lessons of 1 hour and 30 minutes each

and can be taken individually or in small groups of up to 5. The program is administered by one of the academy professionals. It offers a dynamic introduction to the sport of golf and the main elements of the game include: The Putting, Short Game known as Chipping & Pitching, Full Swing, and induction into

the sport with visits to the golf course.

Tennis

The Parque Valle del Sol Tennis Academy offers well-structured coaching programs, to guarantee the necessary skills are learned during initiation into the sport. There are also internship programs for enhancing tennis technique and tactics, as well as a High-Performance Program for players at a stage of competitive tennis.
Services on offer
• Group or individual lessons for children, teens, and adults.
• Certified and highly qualified instructors.
• Leasing of courts
• 8 semi-open outdoor courts and 2 covered courts.
• Organized internal and national tournaments.
• Store / Racket stringing.

A HIGH QUALITY OF LIFE SET IN A NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

A lush, exclusive piece of paradise framed by captivating mountain and jungle views, Parque Valle del Sol has already commercialized over 500 lots. Just a few minutes from downtown San José, a full array of services are within reach. Offering the highest value and growth in the country, the space ensures world-class style and a luxurious quality of life for the residential community. This, along with its many other attributes, proves purchasing land to build a home in this community is an excellent investment.
• Exceptional location and climate.
• Wide avenues, streets, and ample green areas.
• A variety of land lots with views of the golf course, forests, and mountains.
• Lots ranging from 600 m2 to over 2,000 m2.
• Residential construction regulations.
• Low density and purely residential land use.
• Maximum land coverage with residential homes set at 50%.
• A tank with a total capacity of 1.5 million liters to meet the fresh water needs for all the homes.
• Waste water treatment facilities.
• Community governed by the Owners Association – APROSOL.
• Waste collection and recycling program.
• Internal surveillance 24 hours a day and a security system permanently monitored by cameras.
• Demarcated by two natural canyons formed by the Uruca and Virilla Rivers.
• Play Grounds.

Parque Valle del Sol is divided into zones known as:
• Boulevard Del Sol, the first stage with beautiful, wide avenues.
• Altos Del Sol, boasting the most modern electric infrastructure, with highly reliable underground TV and telephone cabling. The only residential community zone with lots starting from 600 m2.
• Puesta del Sol, the best district for enjoying the sunset, contouring the canyon formed by the Virilla River.
• Bosques del Sol, lush natural area adjacent to the Uruca River canyon.
• Reserva Especial, a choice location set within the golf course.
• Vistas del Sol, an area with incredible views of the mountains.
• Altos del Golf, the most recent phase of the company, this Eco-Cluster is inserted in Parque Valle del Sol.

Parque Valle del Sol is located in the district of Pozos de Santa Ana, where the Virilla and Uruca Rivers meet. The valley that forms is protected to the south by Escazu and by the hills of the Alto de Las Palomas to the west. The favorable regional conditions, with a wealth of water sources and springs, were considered determinants when selecting an area.

Parque Valle del Sol residents benefit some of the very best schools, business centers, and shopping centers, as well as several restaurants and entertainment options nearby. Juan Santamaria international airport is just a 15-minute drive from the community.

Services within minutes
Airports – 15 to 20 minutes
Hotels – 3 to 10 minutes
Business Centers – 5 to 10 minutes
Commercials Centers – 3 to 10 minutes
Restaurants – 3 to 10 minutes
Medical Centers – 10 minutes
Schools – 2 to 15 minutes
Service stations – 3 minutes
Auto repair – 5 to 10 minutes
Supermarkets – 5 to 10 minutes
Banks – 3 to 10 minutes
Entertainment – 3 to 10 minutes
Pharmacies – 3 to 10 minutes
Libraries – 5 minutes
Churches – 5 to 10 minutes

YESTERDAY

THE ORIGIN OF THE COMPANY

James O’Dea, a civil engineer of Irish decent, founded an engineering and planning firm in 1952 called Goodkind & O’Dea in the United States. O’Dea purchased land owned by the Aguiluz family and, using a national bank, created Valle del Sol Funds, thus becoming the first developer of Parque Valle del Sol. In 1975, he prepared the plans for the housing complex, a country club, and a golf course located to the west of the capital, San José. Near the end of the 1980s, the deputy minister of Foreign Trade (1988-1990), president of Cempro and president of the Free Zones, Edgar Brenes André, accompanied by a delegation of Costa

Rican business executives traveled to Brazil to promote investments in Costa Rica. During the trip, he met a Brazilian leader and businessman from Rio Grande do Sul, Mr. Péricles de Freitas Druck, president of Grupo Habitasul. Later on, Mr. Brenes proposed working together on acquiring the property that would become Parque Valle del Sol. Realizing the extreme potential of the area, it was purchased in the 1990s and the company Desarrollos Inmobiliarios Habitasul S.A.” was established. In 1992, a purchase was made for a residential project with a golf course, housing, and leisure areas.

Habitasul already boasted an impressive history of success in implementing Planned Communities in Brazil. By means of unique real estate acquisitions, the company guaranteed an elevated degree of client satisfaction. Sustainable growth was ensured through continuous technical and environmental solutions. As such, the company implemented their philosophy in practices, backed by singular strategies that led to a higher perceived-value. The company’s permanent presence ensured needs were gradually adapted, at every new stage of development. Grupo Habitasul offers the market products and solutions that are the result of strategic demands balanced among clients, investors, staff,

AN ENTREPRENEURIAL AND INNOVATIVE VISION

the environment, and communities. This interactive relationship is based on a Top management model through two specific lines: management in 4 dimensions*, an open path to attaining concrete dreams, experiences and desires, constituting a regulated and renewable cycle of business sustainability; and Community Governance, in which the goal–prosperity–is reached through shared effort among all the agents involved in planned communities. A work methodology based on a lifetime relationship. The example of Planned Communities was studied, assessed, and developed to that it would be perceived as much more than just a real estate product. The model

created for Costa Rica placed a priority on standards that had not yet been seen in Costa Rica and could only be considered unique. Habitasul began focusing on its core business in the development of a Planned Community, with the projects based on added values and attributes, such as:
• Quality of life
• Community organization and integration
• Environmental conservation and education
• Safety
• Unique infrastructure
• Comfort & facilities
• Investment guarantee
• Developers’ commitment to the model

DIMENSIONS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Habitasul Planned Communities are aimed at systematically providing a superior standard in living well. The essence of the projects is to provide high levels of comfort, coupled with a superior lifestyle for residents.
Each development strives to reach the fourth dimension: coexistence. The art of interacting, with people and the environment; creating lifetime relationships.

The four dimensions
The area of land
Development, urbanization
Construction of homes and living spaces
Coexistence among people. Interaction with the environment.

Based on these unique differences, the company developed a matrix to standardize characterization, namely excellence in living well. And, thus, stages were planned for the construction of Planned Communities.
1. Knowledge first. Urban planning was preceded by a study of the region, identifying the local values and culture, as well as their trends and strengths, including considering physical aspects like environmental restrictions and landscaping highlights.
2. Details in implementation. A diagnosis was prepared based on these elements. This tool is vital to the discussion of regional development strategies. A multidisciplinary team formed by engineers, sociologists, attorneys, biologists, architects and administrators (areas: marketing, finance and sales) was fundamental to the implementation of the subsequent stage.
3. A global focus. The strategy for the development of a new community paid special attention to the surroundings, which would influence the future of this development. As such, internal (in the new community) and external (its surroundings) actions were planned.

COMPLETE INTERACTION BETWEEN NATURE AND QUALITY OF LIFE

Grupo Habitasul developed criteria of excellence that also contemplate tomorrow. The company focused on surpassing expectations, striving to build, aside from a mega-project, a concept of living that values the interaction with the natural landscape and preserves harmony with the environment. From the implementation of urban infrastructure, to the investment in maintaining the surrounding ecosystem, everything was studied with meticulous attention. The company concentrated on attributes to add value to the product and increase the investment value of all those who believed in the project. A vision of the future was the base for this urban creation. As such, a multidisciplinary team of professionals and companies were vital to both its institution and preservation. Adding to this strategy, were bold architectural plans, highlighting the importance of maintenance and blending seamlessly into the environment, and making concerns of daily life a priority. In other words, the focus was centered on exceptional variables for the development of Planned Communities.

THE
ENVIRONMENT
AS A WHOLE

Placing a priority on environmental harmony, the concept behind the development was aimed at balance with nature. The best way to ensure conservation is programmed occupation, contemplating aspects such as the treatment of effluents, selective waste collection, the creation and expansion of green areas, that is, offering an ecological solution to results of human occupation. The environment was not treated as a problem, but rather as a solution, as the beauty and attractiveness of nature formed an important aspect of its success.
A megaproject that benefits from the singularity of opulent nature, highlighting the beautiful canyons and the lush fauna and flora. Every action taken so far strives to maintain and increase the value of this environment. The strictest of environmental legislation and regulations were adhered to and surpassed.

THE
PRESENT

A SUCCESSFUL
COMPANY

THE ENTIRE
INVESTMENT AND
THE ADDED VALUE OF
THE DEVELOPMENT
LED TO A SUCCESS
IN DEMAND AND AN
IMPORTANT INCREASE
IN THE PERCEIVED
VALUE OF THE REAL
ESTATE PRODUCT.

Since the launch, over 450 lots have already been sold, with 350 families purchasing or building homes in Parque Valle del Sol, enjoying the benefits of the added value generated by the property in recent years. Over 100 lots have been acquired by investors as land investments or to be used for the construction of homes. The increased value in dollars of Parque Valle del Sol is simply extraordinary and is typical of very few planned residential communities around the world. This is the direct result of the combination of quality, strategies, and extensive experience of the real estate group. Since the launch, the prices in dollars per square meter of the lots sold have risen by approximately 670%, equal to a financial investment in dollars with a compound rate superior to 14%, an excellent and undeniable indicator showing that investing in a tangible asset, like Parque Valle del Sol, is the best decision and return on investment that a family could make in life.

AMONG
PARQUE VALLE
DEL SOL’S
EXCELLENT
DESIGN
CONCEPTS ARE:

• A leader in the application of the “Edge City” concept in the vast metropolitan region of San José. Today, Santa Ana has transformed into one of the most valued destinations in the macroregion, which, in recent years, has led to the launch and development of several communities in the area.
• The pioneering marketing strategy in Costa Rica emphasized the benefits of a quality life style, due to the different attributes offered in the residential community, including: security, grandeur, scenic beauty, excellent climate and tranquility, as well as sports that can be enjoyed outdoors, not to mention the excellent architectural standard of the well-built homes.
• Parque Valle del Sol, applying best environmental practices in all areas of development by means of ‘Green Planned Community’ environmental seal, which is granted to sustainable communities, designed with a focus on the land, water, nature, residents, and visitors. Parque Valle del Sol not only meets current environmental standards, but also establishes the standard for communities of tomorrow.
• Today, due to its pleasant climate and proximity to San José, , Santa Ana has become a magnet for commercial and residential investments, luxury trade centers and some of the country’s top private schools. Without doubts, this is one of the most exclusive regions to live in Costa Rica.

Low density
The total area of the residential community and golf course is 137 hectares, which according to the Regulatory Plan for the city of Santa Ana, makes this one of the lowest density zones.
Parque Valle del Sol is currently comprised of residential lots and Altos de Golf, which occupy a total of 32% of its area, which translates as an exceptionally low population density, allowing residents to benefit from extensive green areas.
Furthermore, recreational areas, such as the golf course and the tennis courts, are spread out over 61 hectares and home to many trees. Thanks to residential Construction Regulations, the number of buildings in each residential lot is limited to 50%, which guarantees that each home built has huge gardens.
In other words, 85% of the total area is free of construction.

ENVIRONMENT:

THE IMPACT OF A
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY

From the very beginning, Parque Valle del Sol has acted as an example of a community committed to preserving the environment.
Efforts to conserve water are clearly evident.
In each space and along the trails, irrigation systems have been installed, which automatically reduces the consumption of water. The irrigation system is fed by the lakes on the golf course and the selection of ornamental plants cultivated here are resistant to summer temperatures. Green practices like waste separation and recycling are obligatory. For the same reason, each lot has selected areas for the correct treatment of waste during the construction process.
To promote environmental awareness, campaigns are staged to plant new trees.
Solar panels are recommended for homes to further aid the environment.

WILDLIFE

SANCTUARY

Contrary to other areas impacted by residential communities and commercial centers developed in the same region and which have expelled the natural fauna from it habitat, Parque Valle del Sol has developed a unique concept, creating natural shelters throughout the extent of the golf course aimed at preserving wildlife. According to this environmental perspective, 15 large lakes were designed as part of the golf course, creating natural sites that have developed into several habitats encouraging the settlement of wildlife. From the start of the operation, developers were fully aware of the importance of the environment and modern strategies and practices were implemented to significantly reduce the impact of maintaining the golf course. Several organizations, such as Audubon International, USGA and GCSAA, provided their support and guidance to ensure optimal environmental management in the daily running of the golf course. The main guidelines are split into 6 categories:
• Environmental Planning.
• Wildlife habitats.
• Reduction and safety in the use of chemical products.
• Water conservation.
• Water quality.
• Education and an extension program for outside communities.

FLORA AND FAUNA

The development is home to several green areas with lush subtropical vegetation, where it is possible to view hundreds of colorful flowers during the summer months, along with poppies, laurel forests, crocus and many other native species. The most visual attraction upon entering the residential community are the decorated islands along the avenues, with lines of majestic palms soaring up over 15 m high. The National Institute of Biodiversity has certified the existence of 93 types of trees on the golf course, having taken root thanks to natural regeneration. There are also 12 types of hardwood species that are threatened

with extinction due to excessive logging and a loss of habitat through deforestation. They include Glassywood, Cocbolo, Cristobal, Mahogany, Yellow Ipê, Ceiba, Tempisque, Almond and Ceder, among others. The Bird Club of Costa Rica (BBCR) has sighted over 50 species of bird around the golf course. Additionally, several other species have taken up home on the golf course, with many families of ducks swimming in the lakes.

RECOGNITION
FOR HAMONIOUS
COEXISTENCE WITH
THE ENVIRONMENT

The results of this effort have earned Parque Valle del Sol a number of environmental certificates over the years. This distinction has confirmed that the focus on natural areas and the protection of finite resources, besides being a valuable legacy for future generations, was without doubt the right decision. Recognition:
• Audubon International has declared the golf course a wildlife sanctuary;
• The Ecological Blue Flag is in recognition of the Costa Rican environmental program for the development;
• Best Residential Development – at the first edition of the Rene Frank award, granted by the Costa Rican Board of Real Estate Brokers;
• Certified as the Best Golf Development in Costa Rica – Rated 5 stars by the Americas Property Awards, organized by the CNBC and The New York Times.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

• Health Quality Seal with 6 stars by the Aqueducts and Sewers Institute (April 29, 2010)
• Ecological Blue Flag 2 stars – the most important environmental program in the country, established by the Institute of Aqueducts and Sewers, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of the Environment, Energy and Telecommunications and the Electric Institute (March 26, 2010).
• Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary by Audubon International ** Re-certification (December 7, 2010).
• Health Quality Seal with 3 stars by the Aqueducts and Sewers Institute (May 14, 2009).
• Ecological Blue Flag 2 stars – the most important environmental program in the country established by the Institute of Aqueducts and Sewers, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of the Environment, Energy and Telecommunications and the Electric Institute (March 24, 2009).
• Best Golf Development in Costa Rica 5 stars by the American Property Awards, a contest organized in England in association with the Television network CNBC and the newspaper, the New York Times (November 7, 2008).
• Ecological Blue Flag (March 24, 2008).
• World Business Leader by the Bizz Awards Costa Rica 2007.

(*) GCSAA is the American Association of Golf Superintendents. For more information visit www.gcsaa.org
(**) Audubon International is the most well-known organization promoting the management of the environment through educational and conservation programs for more information visit www.audubonintl.org

• Environmental Leaders in Golf Awards International Winner by the American Association of Superintendents of Golf Courses, GCSAA * and the magazine Golf Digest announced in December 2007.
• Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary by Audubon International ** Re-certification (October 29, 2007).
• Real Estate Development Award René Frank, first place in the category “Development of condominium areas” by the Costa Rican Chamber of Real Estate (February 20, 2004).
• Environmental Leaders in Golf Awards Merit Winner by the American Association of Superintendents of Golf Courses GCSAA* and Golf Digest magazine announced in December of 2003.
• Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary by Audubon International** (December 16, 2002).
• Environmental Stewardship by Audubon International (December 16, 2002).
• Outreach and Education by Audubon International (December 16, 2002).
• Wildlife and Habitat Management by Audubon International (November 6, 2002).
• Integrated Pest Management by Audubon International (November 6, 2002).
• Water Quality Management by Audubon International (November 6, 2002).
• Water Conservation by Audubon International (October 1, 2001).
• Environmental Planning by Audubon International (September 14, 1999).

TOMORROW

THE FUTURE BEGAN
WITH THE PLANNING
OF THE COMPANY

Parque Valle del Sol was developed with a long-term vision. The company was structured to be executed and commercialized in stages, over the years to come. Planning was focused on changing the lifestyle of the local population. The future was carefully thought out. The long-term vision indicated the importance of taking actions that would preserve the quality of life even considering everything that would still be built on the 137 hectares. When taking future projections into consideration, the company pondered the fact that currently there are around 1,500 people living in the area, what and how would the quality of the location and of life be affected with 5,000 people living in Parque Valle del Sol tomorrow? The answer to this question touches on population density, by the concessions the company had to make in deciding to build single-family units (houses), even with permission to develop multi-family units (apartment buildings). The decision to maintain a population density that guaranteed its quality was fundamental to the early stages. This strategy obviously didn’t benefit from the elevated prospective investments during its launch, but it certainly secured the future of Parque Valle del Sol. It has become one of its standout features. A survey conducted with a number of residents showed there is no doubt that the value of the enterprise will continue to rise, as many expressed interest in acquiring more property that may become available in the future. Motivating this sentiment included the idea of moving into new homes, or purchasing homes for family members to ensure they live close to by. Several residents are ready to invest and acquire property as soon as it becomes available.