obtaining residency status in Nicaragua

Having completed all my necessary paper work to begin processing the formalities of acquiring pensionado status in CR, I flew to CR and spent two weeks there, putting on over 2600K touring various cities, both coasts, trying to decide where I might want to reside before turning over my documents and money to ARCR to begin the application process. I returned to Canada, a bit dismayed - primarily because of the commericalization and gringoizing that had taken place in CR since the last time I was in CR a decade ago. Last year I spend several weeks in Granada and managua.

I need some help, advice, from Canadian and American expats now in Nica land. We don't have Nica representation in Canada where I can get the answers I need: (I have the necessary documents, however, that are needed by the Nicaraguan government.)

1) Can I apply for pensionado status when I am in Nicaragua? 2) If I can, will I have to leave and re-enter the country to avoid overstaying my initial visa limits. 3) How costs can I anticipate? Is there an organization that assists would be immigrants such as ARCR in Costa Rica? 4. How long does it take to get the necessary paper work done? and can one remain in the country until the paper work is completed. 5. Can I open up a bank account in American $ while on visa? while applying? 6. My vehicle is a 2000 Dodge Caravan with low mileage. I realize it would be better to have a Hyundai, Toyota, Nissan or Kia, but if I decided to keep the Dodge there, what kind of import duties should I expect?

Any and all advice, criticisms, would be sincerely appreciated.

I am expecting to begin my trip by end of September>