However, on the other side of the state there were interior pics of the homes that sold from months and years ago.

Do they take pics of interior at move in and have tenants sign each pic? 

Still strong but lots of competition, so you need to research what works: good pics, seasonal pricing, amenities, etc.

If you are looking for cash-flow, you can apply the 1% rule and scan through many deals and then only focus on ones that have potential cash-flow.

I totally agree, I have never been bored in Costa Rica (my profile pic is my girlfriend and I surfing in Nosara) and I really like your perspective!

So can you post a few pics of the place?

Those will convey the idea you are trying to show.I wouldn't rule out the family pics.

Scan those lists in the markets that interest you and look to see who the buyers and sellers are.

I'd pay a few hundred and get some nice pics. 

We gave him an old lease that said he didn't have to pay water (we newly split the utilities in the unit) and he noticed we charged him for water and then we refunded him (although he continued to send us pics of his napkin math that says we didn't refund him enough).