So, this whole "you must live in the property for 1 year" claim that we see online seems to be completely baseless.

I want them to benefit from the success of our ventures and reap the rewards of their trust in me.

Focusing on what you can control, like consistent effort, really sets the foundation for success.

For your first question: you can definitely be successful either way.

Quote from @John McKee: What are your successes, failures, and aha moments?  

Focus on fundamentals: buy below market value, have strong cash flow (or a clear path to creating it), and maintain sufficient reserves to weather any unexpected challenges.If you’re strategic and stay patient, this market could create opportunities that lay the groundwork for long-term success.

They’ll advise you on what moves you should make so you can make the best possible decisions throughout the buying process.Bottom LineThe key to a successful homebuying savings strategy?

My husband and I purchased our first Costa Rica property last year and were advised by our agent that in almost 6 years of working in that market he had only ever seen 1 American Couple successfully obtain a mortgage in Costa Rica and it was from Scotia Bank. 

However, there are some investors here who are having a lot of success finding cash-flowing deals through off-market sources. 

Good luck and great success to us all!