They married on New Year's Eve 1983, and have been together ever since. Between them, there are a total of 4 children from previous marriages.
Professional Backgrounds:
Stef - Pete says that Stef is probably the best salesperson he has ever known, and he has had experience with many. She has a caring dynamic personality and knows exactly what she is talking about. Her professional background includes:
- Operations Manager for a very large tire dealer in Dayton, Ohio (this is where Pete met her)
- Salesperson for an auto dealership in Detroit, MI who was promoted to Finance Manager for what was one of the largest car dealers in the US and was featured in Ford Motor Company's Annual Report.
- Owner of a very successful staffing company - Snelling Personnel Services of Brentwood, TN
What They Are Doing Now:
Because of the rapid work pace that they had in their previous careers, it is obvious that neither can just retire in Costa Rica and just sit back and do nothing, especially Stef because she is wired, and wants to keep busy.
Both seem to have a tremendous desire to help others and because of this, Stef started Costa Concierge Services in 2008 and now specializes in assisting visitors with rental cars, travel arrangements and has become heavily involved in property management for absentee owners. - Pete however, is a little more laid back and puts his focus on helping with marketing concepts and programs. He has also managed the construction of new homes for those where were not here to do it themselves.
Because of what happened to the US market in late 2007 and early 2008 where the earned interest rates in the US went from over 5% to less than 2%, they decided to invest their cash in a new home. This was an excellent decision. They also built a second home comprised of 2 apartments that they use for a rental property when there are no guests from the US.
Why Costa Rica? Why Atenas?
Why Costa Rica? - After a couple of extended trips Pete made here along with the extensive research he did on the country, it became obvious why the decision to move to Costa Rica was made. The climate, the cost of living, the people, the health care, and the beauty of the country were important factors. But, most of all it was the perfect place to get away from the increasing pressures that were building in the US.
Why Atenas? - Atenas is a very quiet and peaceful town with little crime that is in one of the best locations you can imagine. A half hour to the airport, 20 minutes to the major shopping areas and an hour to the Pacific. In addition, the weather is outstanding. Where else can one live where you have absolutely no need for heat and air conditioning? Over 700 expats live in Atenas, so something must be good about it.
In the 9 years that Pete and Stef have lived here, they have learned much about living here. In addition, they have built a list of needed resources that would astound you. They know the area, the people, the business owners, and much more. It might be worth it for you to pick their brain, and they will be more than happy to help you. You can contact them at:
