I'll make a long story as short as possible:> House built in 2008, first owners used husbands VA loan to secure (220k loan), stopped paying HOA and bank shortly thereafter (current payoff 500k+). 

Efficient negotiations secured the property for $154,000 on favorable terms.

Through efficient negotiations, we secured the property for $155,000 on favorable terms.

Efficient negotiations secured the property for $120,000 on favorable terms.

A quick Internet search of "Costa Rica Mortgage Loans" turned up a couple of brokers and private equity offerings.You could also try to get the seller to finance part of the purchase price.Or borrow it from your 401K, if you have one.Depending on your credit score, it might also be worth looking at rates from a local credit union, bank, or even Prosper or Lending Club for a personal loan rather than a real-estate secured loan.

Even retirees get raises to their Social Security and usually pensions as well. 

That article references California.2nd, I believe it's a misinterpretation of the new California security deposit law which limits security deposits to 1 months rent.

Appreciation: Can vary widely based on location and property.

Hi Dennis, your newest plan sounds very reasonable and is a widely used strategy in real estate.  

Adding to the last point, ensure the new debt does not negatively impact your father's DSCR or other financial ratios in a way that might make it harder to secure the next loan.