When we look back on our first six months in business, one word comes to mind: gratitude.
What began as a shared vision between husband and wife team Lieber (aka Pito) and Kathryn has quickly grown into a trusted name for property care Costa Rica. Serving Tamarindo, Playas del Coco, and the surrounding communities of coastal Guanacaste, Vida Verde Landscaping and Property Maintenance was built on family values, hard work, and a deep respect for both people and the land.
Today, with 19 five-star Google reviews and counting, we are humbled by the trust our clients have placed in us as we embarked on this journey.
From Humble Roots to a Growing Team
Like many small businesses in Costa Rica, Vida Verde started small. It began with a sturdy vehicle, a few essential tools, and an unwavering commitment to doing the job right. What we may have lacked in size, we made up for in dedication, integrity, and pride in our work.
More than six months later, that small operation has grown into a professional, expanding team serving residential and commercial properties throughout Guanacaste. From private homeowners and realtors to builders, investors, and large development projects, we are proud to support the region’s growth while protecting its natural beauty.
But our story did not begin six months ago. It began many years earlier, shaped by our individual paths and shared values.
Pito’s Story – From Guápiles to Guanacaste
Yornan Leiber Durán Hernández – known to most as Pito – brings a story of resilience, humility, and hard-earned success.
Originally from Guápiles, Costa Rica, Pito is one of ten siblings and a farmer by trade. He grew up wearing his work boots to school and carrying his books in a rice bag. Hard work was not a choice – it was a way of life.
His deep connection to the land began in childhood and evolved into expertise in landscaping, property maintenance, irrigation systems, and large-scale land management. Today, Pito runs Vida Verde Landscaping and Property Maintenance with the same grit and integrity that shaped his upbringing.
His journey from rural farmland to leading a successful company in Guanacaste is not just inspiring – it defines the heart of Vida Verde.
Kathryn’s Vision – Growing Businesses in Costa Rica
Over a decade ago, Kathryn moved to Costa Rica and quickly fell in love with its culture, community, and entrepreneurial spirit. However, she also recognized a challenge: many small, family-run businesses were struggling to evolve in an increasingly digital economy.
That realization led her to found Costa Consultants International, a consultancy dedicated to helping local ventures thrive. What started as a mission to bridge traditional businesses with modern digital strategies has grown into a complete team supporting industries such as real estate, tourism, wellness, and professional services.
Through her work, Kathryn witnessed firsthand the importance of strong branding, strategic growth, and community-centered leadership. Those lessons became foundational when launching Vida Verde – ensuring that from day one, the company would operate with structure, professionalism, and a clear long-term vision.
A Triple Bottom Line Philosophy – People, Planet, Profit
From the beginning, we committed to a triple bottom line philosophy: people, planet, and profit.
People – We treat our clients and employees like family. That means clear communication, fair pricing, respect for time, and delivering work we are proud to stand behind.
Planet – Living and working in Guanacaste means understanding tropical ecosystems. We design and maintain landscapes that are sustainable, water-conscious, and suited to Costa Rica’s climate. We also collaborate with the ICE Forestry Program to support reforestation efforts and environmental responsibility.
Profit – A healthy business sustains jobs, supports families, and strengthens the local economy. Responsible growth allows us to invest in better equipment, skilled team members, and community initiatives.
Beyond business, we donate our time and materials to improve local schools and parks. Because success means little if it does not give back.
Our Services – Comprehensive Property Care in Costa Rica
Vida Verde was built to provide reliable, professional property care Costa Rica for both residential and commercial clients. Whether maintaining a vacation home, preparing a development lot, or upgrading outdoor spaces, our services include:
- Commercial and residential landscaping and maintenance
- Garden design and installation
- Irrigation installation and repair
- Garden lighting installation
- Lot leveling
- Lot clearing
- Natural fencing
- Retention walls
- Wooden patio restoration
- A/C cleaning
- Fumigation
- Power washing
- Gutter cleaning
We understand that property ownership in Guanacaste comes with unique challenges. The tropical climate is beautiful, but it is demanding. Fast-growing vegetation, heavy rains, dry seasons, pests, and salt air all require consistent, knowledgeable care.
Pito and Kathryn are passionate about helping their clients understand how to maintain their garden in Costa Rica. It all begins with understanding the rhythms of the seasons. Proper irrigation systems are essential during the dry months. Native plant selection reduces water consumption. Regular pruning prevents overgrowth and protects structures. Preventative maintenance – such as gutter cleaning and power washing – preserves property value.
Our role is not just to provide services, but to guide clients in protecting their investment long-term.
Serving Tamarindo, Playas del Coco, and Beyond
Guanacaste continues to grow rapidly, particularly in communities like Tamarindo, Avellanas, Brasilito, Huacas, Flamingo, Potrero, Playa Grande, and Playas del Coco. With that growth comes increased demand for professional landscaping, irrigation systems, and reliable maintenance.
We are proud to serve homeowners, property managers, realtors, and developers across these regions and surrounding areas. Each project – large or small – receives the same level of care and attention.
From boutique commercial properties to private residences tucked into lush hillsides, our mission remains the same: elevate outdoor spaces while preserving the natural beauty that makes Guanacaste so special.
19 Five-Star Reviews – A Reflection of Trust
Receiving 19 five-star reviews on Google in our first several months is more than a milestone – it is a reflection of trust.
Each review represents a homeowner who entrusted us with their property, a builder who relied on our team to meet deadlines, or a business owner who counted on us to maintain a professional exterior.
In an industry where reliability and communication can make all the difference, we are proud that our clients consistently mention professionalism, responsiveness, and quality workmanship.
To every client who has supported us so far – thank you. Your confidence fuels our growth and motivates us to keep raising the standard.
Looking Ahead – Growing with Purpose
While the first six months have exceeded our expectations, we see this as only the beginning.
Our vision for Vida Verde is long-term. We plan to continue expanding our team, investing in equipment, deepening community involvement, and strengthening environmental partnerships. Growth will always be guided by our values – never rushed, never at the expense of quality.
Together, Kathryn’s strategic business leadership and Pito’s hands-on expertise create a balance that defines Vida Verde. One rooted in structure and heart. Strategy and soil. Vision and action.
As we move forward, our promise remains simple:
- To deliver dependable property care Costa Rica rooted in integrity.
- To educate homeowners on how to maintain your garden in Costa Rica with confidence.
- To serve Tamarindo, Playas del Coco, and surrounding communities with professionalism and pride.
- To treat our team and clients like family.
- To protect the land that sustains us all.
From the bottom of our hearts – thank you for being part of our journey.
Here’s to the next chapter of Vida Verde in Guanacaste.
By Jennifer LaCharite