Your Complete Guide to Buying Property in Costa Rica

If you’ve been dreaming of owning a home in paradise, Costa Rica is one of the best places to make that dream a reality. From pristine beaches to lush mountain retreats, the country offers a variety of real estate options and a stable, foreigner friendly system for property ownership. To help you get started, here are some of the most common questions people ask when buying property in Costa Rica along with expert insights to make your purchase smooth and stress free.

November 12, 2025

Category: Buying Guide

Buying property in Costa Rica is exciting—but understanding the process is key. Here’s a clear roadmap for foreign buyers:

1. Find Your Property

Work with a trusted, licensed real estate agent who knows your goals and the local market.

2. Make an Offer

Once the seller accepts, a real estate attorney drafts the purchase agreement.

3. Due Diligence

Your attorney checks:

Clear title
No liens
Proper zoning
Accurate boundaries

4. Transfer & Closing

The transfer occurs before a Costa Rican Notary Public, who registers the sale with the National Registry.

Timeline: Usually 30–60 days.

5. Financing Options

Mortgages are available to foreigners but less common.
Many buyers pay cash or finance through a home-country bank.
Seller financing is another option.

6. Closing Costs

Expect 3–5% of the purchase price, including:

Transfer tax (1.5%)
Notary & legal fees (~1–2%)
Registration & document fees
Due diligence costs

7. Use a Real Estate Attorney

A bilingual, independent attorney ensures:

Clean title
Correct boundaries
Buyer-protective contracts

8. Beachfront & Concession Properties

First 50m from high tide: public land
Next 150m: concession property (restrictions on foreign ownership)

9. Clean Title Verification

Your attorney will confirm:

Legal ownership
Boundaries
Mortgages or liens
Zoning restrictions

10. Renting Your Property

Costa Rica is great for rentals:

Short- or long-term rentals allowed
Business license may be required
Rental income is taxable

11. Finding Trustworthy Agents & Properties

Look for agents who:

Are registered with CRGAR or NAR
Provide references
Offer bilingual services
Prioritize transparency

Buying in Costa Rica can be one of the most rewarding investments of your life. 🌿 Let’s find your perfect property!

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