A dramatic western horizon view of the Gulf of Nicoya from a spacious balcony; an in-law suite (or maid's quarters) with large bedroom, bathroom and view of the backyard flower garden; and a full wood-lined sauna with Tyco heater and separate shower room are just three of the many compelling features of this attractively priced 5,650 sq ft two-storey, four-bedroom home in San José’s prestigious Villa Real neighborhood. The large living room, with nooks for a library/study leads to a large dining room overlooking the ample terrace and fountain, while the modern kitchen with its custom hardwood cabinets, bar and breakfast room overlooks the flower/butterfly garden. Villa Real is just west of Guachipelin, and is within minutes of the Forum and Forum II, home to the offices of the Fortune 500 companies in Costa Rica; the Valle del Sol golf course; the large Multiplaza Shopping Mall; Courtyard Marriott and Camino Real International hotels; modern supermarkets; Outback; acclaimed local restaurants such as Lo Spago (Italian) and the unique Motor Psychos bar.

This residence, perched majestically atop Villa Real on a third of an acre lot, also offers an office area and separate TV room which also overlooks the flower garden. Each of the three large bedrooms has its own walk-in closet and its own modern bathroom. There are additional large closets on both upper and lower levels; orange, tangerine, lemon, mango and papaya trees in the garden; a small herb garden (basil, peppers, oregano, tomatoes, etc.); front-door 'visual' intercom system; alarm system and oversized two-car garage with large storage room.

LOCATION: Villa Real residential community, Escazú, just outside of San José, on the main highway to Santa Ana and Ciudad Colón

PRICE: $875,000 (excellent value compared to other higher-priced Villa Real homes)

For another exclusive residence in the area, see Five-Star Santa Ana Golf Course Residence