After 22 years as a real estate broker, I’ve learned that the three most important factors in purchasing property are location, location, and location. This principle holds true in the US, and it’s just as relevant in Nicaragua. So when we began looking for a house in San Juan del Sur, we passed on nicer, more affordable options in less desirable locations.
We wanted a house within the village proper so we could walk to the beach, local shops, churches, parks, and restaurants. More than anything, we wanted to immerse ourselves in the local community and culture rather than live in a secluded, gated enclave of expats. While some people prefer the seclusion of gated communities, we sought local friendships and authentic connections.
Ultimately, we bought a "fixer-upper" in the village. The house was small and unappealing at first glance, but we saw its potential to become something special. My least favorite part? The yard, completely covered in unattractive red volcanic rock. From there, we began an ambitious list of projects (“proyectos” in Spanish) to transform our “casita fea” (ugly little house) into a personal oasis.
While I’ve previously written about some of the larger projects—like our pool garden and mural project—it’s time to share a full list of everything we’ve accomplished:
Structural Improvements
Installed a small in-ground plunge pool with a waterfall
Paved our garden and driveway with river stones
Replaced patio paving with river stones
Rebuilt four large brick planters in the garden
Reroofed the outdoor bathroom
Repaved our front sidewalk and steps with concrete and river stones
Cosmetic Enhancements
Painted the entire house, inside and outside
Painted seven small murals in the bathroom and garden
Painted three small murals on the outside fence
Added well over 100 tropical plants
Replaced old and faded large mural
Replaced and painted outdoor wood fencing
Plumbing and Electrical Upgrades
Replaced both toilets and all sink faucets
Replaced all outdoor garden faucets
Installed an on-demand hot water system
Installed new hot water showers
Replaced all electrical breakers and added a 240v circuit
Installed a whole-house water pressure pump
Replaced whole-house backup water tanks
Miscellaneous Repairs and Upgrades
Reworked bad patio drains and added new ones
Resealed the metal roof
Relocated one A/C unit to increase efficiency
Reworked the outdoor metal security fence and gates
Closed in the bathroom’s open-air window
Closed in open-air wall fencing in the patio
Replaced outdoor sun screens
Installed heavy-duty patio fans
Replaced hardware on all cabinets
Replaced all door knobs, locksets, and deadbolts
Custom-built cabinet storage for the patio
Many other repairs too numerous to list
Some of these projects could be considered deferred maintenance, but many were simply upgrades to improve the property.
Fortunately, we hired out most of the labor, managing the projects rather than doing the work ourselves. Communicating with Spanish-speaking contractors was initially challenging, but it turned out to be an excellent way to improve our language skills and deepen our connection to the local culture.
If this sounds extravagant, it’s worth noting that the affordability of skilled labor in Nicaragua made these upgrades possible. For example, two skilled workers—such as masons, carpenters, plumbers, or electricians—typically charge $100 or less for a full day’s work. While building materials are also more affordable than in the US, the real savings come from the labor costs.
It’s been almost a year since we closed on our Nicaragua home, and we love it more with each passing day. Although we’ve considered future projects, like adding a second floor or redoing the sidewalk out front, we’re ready to take a well-deserved break. For now, we’re looking forward to a peaceful, contractor-free Christmas!