Buying property in Costa Rica? ☎️ Hire us to purchase real estate.
Are you buying real estate in Costa Rica? If you wish to purchase or sell real estate, be it land, a home, or a vacation rental property, our legal team is here to help you. Can foreigners own land in Costa Rica? They sure can! This article will provide links and information on buying property in Costa Rica. I am a real estate attorney in San José, Costa Rica, and I will gladly help you purchase property and ensure your investment is secure. Real estate purchases begin with due diligence and escrow coordination. Once these steps are covered, we later move to the property closing and registration to your name. We then procure a secure real estate title from the Property Public Registry of Costa Rica. (Registro Nacional.)
You should never rush to buy or sell real estate properties if due diligence is not done first. As your Costa Rican real estate attorneys, we will ascertain if the property for sale has any legal issues, so you can avoid any problematic situation.
How to buy property in Costa Rica: the first steps.
The first thing is to figure out which property you’d like to buy. There are many homes for sale in Costa Rica, and many with incredible ocean views. There are many beautiful regions of Costa Rica to choose from. If you find a property for sale that suits you, you should immediately contact us for due diligence. Investing in Costa Rica is a wonderful idea, and a real estate is always a wise investment option. With the property identification number or “Folio Real” we will begin working. Acting as your real estate lawyers, we can identify the property in the Public Registry of Costa Rica (Registro Público de Costa Rica).
We will ascertain the property size and cadastral plan number. We can assess its boundaries and the nature of the property. Most importantly, we will be able to ascertain who the owner of the real estate property is, and if there are encumbrances. These initial steps are part of the due diligence service we offer you to ensure you purchase real estate safely.
What do the "Folio Real" numbers mean?
It’s important to note that the first digit of the property´s identification number, also known as the folio real, corresponds to the province where the property is located in Costa Rica. There are seven provinces in Costa Rica which are: San Jose, Alajuela, Cartago, Heredia, Guanacaste, Puntarenas, and Limon. The province number is followed by several other identification numbers, forming the property’s unique identification number. Finally, a sequence with three numbers, often zeros, indicates if a sole person owns the property. For instance, if the sequence is 000, it suggests sole ownership. Different sequences may suggest ownership by a tenancy in common, such as 001 or 002, or 003, depending on the number of ownership rights. We take care of analyzing this for you, so that purchasing property in Costa Rica is easy for you.
What other relevant information does the "Registro Público" show, as to the property title?
With the land title number, our real estate law firm will be able to ascertain all types of information. The Costa Rican Public Registry will show us, who the property owner is, and the type of ownership. (Is the landowner a person, a trust or privately owned by a corporation? Is it in the name of a physical person?) The Registry will also show, the size of the property, its boundaries, and the cadastral plan number, to see it. Most importantly, as property lawyers, we can see if the property has any encumbrances. These are the initial steps to purchasing property in Costa Rica. I covered all of this in the property due diligence section, which I highly recommend reading if you wish to buy property in Costa Rica.
How does the property transfer happen?
You must purchase land in Costa Rica through the services of a Notary Public. As notaries, we ensure your property investment gets securely transferred to your name. It´s the only way to obtain property ownership. So what is that we do? Well, notaries will first draft the public sales deed in a special book called a “protocolo, ” which you and the seller will sign. Through mere consent, the real estate purchase is perfected. Buying property in Costa Rica as an American, Canadian or foreigner is easy, and all you need is your passport for identification purposes.
This notarized document you sign in the “protocolo” is called an “escritura pública”, or “public scripture.” It´s read aloud to both parties, by the notary, and you must both sign in wet ink. This is why it´s so important to have an English-speaking notary public, such as myself, to help you with this. Things must be translated perfectly so that you understand what you are signing! Legal fees must be paid as well as the land transfer costs, and transfer taxes. We will immediately file a certified copy of the public scripture at the Costa Rican National Registry (Registro Público de la Propiedad). As you can see, the original document is not the one that gets filed at the Registry, but rather a particular certified copy of it. In this copy, the Notary Public gives “faith”, that it is a faithful copy of its original.
Can Americans and other foreigners place the property in their personal name?
Yes, for sure! Land in Costa Rica is usually posted for sale online through a real estate agent. You should contact your real estate agent with your sale price and place the property for sale. You should also know that, except for voting, all foreigners have the same rights as Costa Rican citizens. So yes, Americans can own property in Costa Rica. Thus, you can buy real estate, sell property, mortgage it, and modify it. So yes, you can definitely own real estate in Costa Rica, with the full protection of the law. It´s important to know your rights, in regards to private property, which is protected under our Constitution. Investing in properties in Costa Rica is an excellent idea.
Can foreigners create a corporation and place the property in its name?
Yes, our real estate law firm, can create a corporation for you, to own the property investment. You can either have us open a Limited Liability Corporation or LLC, or a Standard Corporation. There are, however, some setbacks. Every year, the corporation must pay a corporate tax, just to be able to exist. After three years of payment defaults, the company will be automatically dissolved. You must also inform the Central Bank of the final beneficiaries of the corporation. It´s important to know, that the corporation requires a shareholder´s assembly, in which the corporation grants the authorization to sell, per governance regulations. There are benefits to all of this. Foreigners and Americans can own property in Costa Rica through corporations as well.
How much are the property transfer costs and taxes?
Purchasing property in Costa Rica involves land transfer costs and notary fees. The property transfer taxes are 1.5% of the sales price, or according to the fiscal value, whichever is higher. So if the purchase price for the property investment is less than the fiscal value, the latter will be used to make the calculation, and vice versa. The Notary must pay the transfer tax to the Public Registry. This, however, is not the only thing you must pay.
The buyer must also pay for registration costs, which include the stamps that must be paid to the Public Registry. These stamps include the National Registry Stamps, agrarian stamps, fiscal stamps, and other fees. In total, you pay around 2.5% of the property value in property transfer taxes and stamps when you buy or sell real estate in Costa Rica. You must also pay the legal fees calculated according to the property value. Ask our real estate law firm, to provide you with an estimate.
How can you make sure the property is indeed registered properly?
This is another reason why you should hire us for your land transactions. We are a group of honest and law-abiding real estate attorneys and notary publics, and we greatly care for our clients. In my 20 years of experience, I have seen many things. I´ve had to litigate against a nefarious notary publics chosen by the purchaser who didn´t bother to register the property. So how do you make sure that the real estate property gets registered properly? By hiring us, we will even give you a certification from the Public Registry that you are the new landowner once the registration process is concluded. You can rest assured that your real estate investment will be registered properly with us.
When you buy real estate in Costa Rica, the notary public files the property purchase agreement at the Public Registry (Registro Público de Costa Rica). Once we file, we will get a receipt stating that the documents were indeed filed. This receipt is used to track the property registration process. Once the property is in your name, you can access the public registry and corroborate that you have a secure title with the corresponding property number (folio real). We will show you how to access the Public Registry. As a client we will show you that the land purchase was properly done, and your real estate investment is secure.
Should I hire a realtor to buy a home in Costa Rica?
By default, you will probably find a realtor through the real estate listings on the internet. These real estate listings, can point to many homes for sale in Costa Rica, and to beautiful lots, or acres of land. There are several steps you can take, to check that your realtor is legitimate. The National Association of Realtors, is always a good place to start. Realtors can also help you rent a home in Costa Rica.
My real estate agent asked me to sign a letter of intent (LOI). What is this?
The LOI or letter of intent, is a document usually drafted by your real estate agent. It’s more of an outline for the future real estate transaction. This document is helpful because it relays initial information regarding the buyer, seller, and the property for sale. American brokerage firms in Costa Rica use them a lot to initiate negotiations.
Should I sign an option-to-purchase agreement to secure the property for sale?
An option to purchase agreement is a pre-contract and paves the way for the future sale. Through this contract, the potential purchaser promises to buy the real estate property. This promise is usually backed by an earnest money deposit, which is given to the landowner. In return, the landowner saves the property as is, to be bought by the potential buyer, in a determined time frame.
Under no circumstance do I recommend you sign an option to purchase agreement if due diligence has not been finalized on the property. If you pay earnest money first, you may regret it if the property has issues. The real estate transaction must be done following the appropriate steps. If the landowner wants you to sign an option to purchase agreement, our real estate law firm will gladly revise it, or even draft one. But only after we have finalized due diligence and given the OK to continue with the property purchase.
Is escrow a good idea to purchase real estate in Costa Rica?
Once we conclude due diligence, then we can begin working on setting up the financial aspect of the real estate transaction. Things can be more manageable if you already have a Costa Rican bank account. However, remember that as a buyer, you must show the bank the origin of the funds. Escrow is always a good idea if you don´t have a Costa Rican bank account open. If you have your money overseas, then I highly recommend using escrow for the closing. As a real estate attorney in Costa Rica, I have been involved in countless real estate closings with escrow agents. Escrow is a good way to ensure your property investment transaction is done securely, and it is an essential step on how to buy a house in Costa Rica.
I can recommend a few distinguished escrow companies for a secure real estate transaction. The escrow agent holds the purchase money in Escrow until the notarized purchase agreement is signed. When it is, the funds will be released to the seller, and the real estate transaction will be concluded. According to these guidelines, property transfers will be done smoothly, whether you are the seller or the buyer.
Investing in Real Estate in Heredia: Tranquility and Accesibility in the Central VAlley
Heredia is one of Costa Rica’s most strategically located provinces for real estate investment. Nestled in the heart of the Central Valley, Heredia offers close proximity to the capital, the international airport, and the country’s main business hubs — while also providing a more peaceful, green, and residential atmosphere.
As real estate attorneys, we assist clients with property purchases throughout Heredia Province, from suburban homes and gated communities to mountain retreats and investment properties.
Heredia City, the provincial capital, is a charming and walkable town with colonial architecture, parks, and a strong university presence. It’s ideal for buyers looking for affordable urban housing with a cultural touch and solid rental demand from students and professionals.
Just outside the city, areas like San Pablo, San Rafael, and San Isidro de Heredia offer upscale residential neighborhoods with cooler temperatures and stunning views of the valley below. These locations are especially popular with families and expats seeking spacious homes in quiet surroundings, while remaining within easy driving distance to San José and Escazú.
Santo Domingo and San Joaquín de Flores are highly sought-after for their blend of charm, walkability, and proximity to major roads and services. These towns offer colonial homes, modern condominiums, and quiet streets — ideal for those who want convenience without the bustle of larger urban centers.
For investors and professionals, the Belén area is one of the most dynamic parts of the province. Home to corporate parks like Zona Franca América and Ultrapark, Belén has become a key business and residential hub, with modern condos, shopping centers, and strong demand for rentals from both local and foreign professionals.
For those seeking a nature-oriented lifestyle, the upper towns of Braulio Carrillo, Varablanca, and Monte de la Cruz provide properties surrounded by cloud forest, fresh air, and panoramic views — ideal for boutique lodges, private estates, or weekend retreats.
Heredia’s blend of accessibility, security, quality of life, and green landscapes makes it an ideal location for both residential living and long-term investment. Whether you’re planning to relocate, retire, or develop property in Costa Rica, Heredia offers a balanced lifestyle with all the amenities of the Central Valley.
Are there any legal requirements for foreigners to purchase land in Costa Rica?
No. The only legal requirement for buying homes for sale in Costa Rica is to have their identification documents up to date. In this case, your valid passport will suffice for identification purposes. A minor detail is an affidavit, usually inserted into the notarized sale, in which you indicate the origin of the money you are using to purchase the property. You don´t even have to be a resident to be able to purchase property, and you can even establish a corporation to own your investment. Condominiums in Costa Rica are also great investment options for expats and foreigners.
Can you recommend a good real estate agent in Santa Teresa and Guanacaste?
I sure can. Santa Teresa is a beautiful location known for excellent surfing spots and astonishing sunsets. Technically, Santa Teresa is in the Puntarenas province, but, the area itself is in the Guanacaste region. Other beautiful locations in Guanacaste are Tamarindo, Pagagayo, Flamingo, Samara, Nosara, Playa Potrero, Playa Hermosa and Conchal. Many real estate agents speak perfect English and have listings that you can look at.
As attorneys, we can contact your real estate agent for initial contact. This is necessary to begin with due diligence and finalize the property closing. Langston Realty in Santa Teresa has real estate agents and property listings you should look into.
Real Estate in Puntarenas: Coastal Investment Opportunities on the Pacific.
As real estate attorneys, we assist clients with property purchases throughout Costa Rica. One of the most attractive regions for investment is Puntarenas, located along the central Pacific coast. This province offers diverse real estate opportunities, from bustling beach towns to tranquil retreats.
Jacó is a popular choice for buyers seeking vibrant nightlife, great surf, and close proximity to San José — just about an hour and twenty minutes from the capital. Its accessibility and active lifestyle make it a solid investment for vacation homes or rental properties.
Further down the coast, real estate in Santa Teresa stands out as a golden investment opportunity. Santa Teresa is known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning sunsets, and thriving expat community. It’s an excellent location for those looking to enjoy a slower pace of life while staying connected to an international crowd. Neighboring towns like Malpaís and Cobano also offer great options for purchasing land or beachfront homes.
Other highly recommended locations in Puntarenas include Playa Hermosa, Dominical, Quepos, and the Osa Peninsula. Quepos, in particular, is popular due to its close proximity to Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s top tourist destinations.
Whether you’re looking for a vacation property, a retirement home, or a real estate investment with spectacular ocean views, the Pacific coast of Puntarenas has something for everyone.
Investing in Real Estate in Guanacaste: Northern Pacific Gems
Guanacaste is one of Costa Rica’s most desirable provinces for real estate investment. Located in the northwestern part of the country, Guanacaste boasts a dry tropical climate, pristine beaches, modern infrastructure, and easy access via the Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia. These features make it a favorite among foreign investors, retirees, and expats seeking a blend of lifestyle and opportunity.
As real estate attorneys, we provide legal guidance for property purchases throughout Guanacaste — from beachfront homes and gated communities to development land and rural retreats.
One of the most popular towns for expats is Nosara, especially the area around Playa Guiones. Known for its world-class surfing, yoga retreats, and wellness lifestyle, Nosara has a tight-knit international community and a laid-back, upscale atmosphere. It’s an ideal location for vacation homes, rental properties, or long-term relocation.
Nearby, Playa Conchal is home to one of the most stunning white-sand beaches in Costa Rica. With luxury resorts, golf courses, and gated residential communities, Playa Conchal offers high-end investment opportunities with strong appreciation potential.
Tamarindo, a bustling coastal hub, continues to be a top choice thanks to its surf, nightlife, restaurants, and international schools. It’s especially attractive for investors looking for vacation rental income or turnkey developments. Adjacent communities like Playa Langosta, Playa Grande, and Playa Avellanas provide quieter alternatives with direct beach access and growing value.
Further north, Playa Flamingo and the new Marina Flamingo have elevated the area’s appeal to high-end investors. The marina project has increased demand for luxury condos and ocean-view homes, creating one of the most dynamic markets in the province.
Other noteworthy towns include Playa Potrero, Playa Negra, and Las Catalinas — a walkable beachside village known for its European-style architecture and intentional urban design.
For those looking for convenience and connectivity, Liberia offers access to healthcare, shopping, and the international airport, while still being a short drive from the beach. It’s a smart location for those balancing investment with long-term residency.
Whether you’re drawn to surfing hotspots, luxury enclaves, or tranquil beach communities, Guanacaste offers diverse real estate options with strong potential and a lifestyle that’s hard to match.
Can I buy property using power of attorney?
You sure can. A power of attorney can be used to buy or sell real estate property in Costa Rica. You should know, that in order to do so, the power of attorney must be notarized in a public scripture as well. So, if you are not in Costa Rica and don’t want to travel down here, you don’t have to worry. We can open a corporation for you. You will be appointed as manager if you wish an LLC, or president of the board of directors if you want a stock corporation. Through an assembly of shareholders, you will grant power of attorney to a firm member to sign the purchase in the corporation’s name. This is way to purchase a property or home for sale in Costa Rica, without having to fly down here.
Once the real estate property title is registered to my name, what else should I do?
As a Costa Rica real estate attorney, I always ensure my clients know their property rights as landowners. You should also be aware that property title theft is a global issue. Costa Rica is not immune to it. After the asset is in your name, there are several things you can do to prevent it. You should click on the following link to learn how to prevent property fraud and what to do if this happens to you.
Investing in Real Estate in Alajuela: Gateway to the Central and Northern Highlands
Alajuela Province offers an excellent mix of urban convenience, natural beauty, and long-term investment potential. Located in the north-central region of Costa Rica, Alajuela is home to the country’s main international airport (SJO), fertile agricultural lands, charming mountain towns, and a growing expat population.
As real estate attorneys, we assist clients with property purchases across Alajuela — from city homes and commercial properties to rural estates and mountain retreats.
Alajuela City, the province’s capital, offers all the amenities of urban living while maintaining a more relaxed atmosphere than downtown San José. It’s a practical option for buyers looking to be close to the airport, shopping centers, schools, and hospitals. Areas like El Coyol and Desamparados de Alajuela have also seen commercial and residential growth in recent years, especially with the expansion of free trade zones and business parks.
For those seeking cooler weather and stunning views, the towns of Grecia, Sarchí, and Atenas are among the most sought-after locations by expats and retirees. Grecia is known for its temperate climate, friendly local community, and accessibility to services. Sarchí, Costa Rica’s artisanal capital, offers a peaceful setting with cultural charm, ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Atenas, while often associated with San José Province, is technically in Alajuela — and consistently ranks among the best places to retire thanks to its spring-like climate and proximity to the capital and airport. It features gated communities, coffee farms, and homes with panoramic valley views.
Moving north, San Ramón is a university town with a growing expat community and affordable land prices. Its blend of academic life, agriculture, and small-town charm attracts buyers looking for more space and a sense of community.
Adventure and eco-tourism areas like La Fortuna and Nuevo Arenal also offer unique opportunities, particularly for those looking to invest in vacation rentals, lodges, or wellness properties. These areas boast breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, thermal hot springs, and lush rainforests — perfect for buyers interested in eco-conscious development or lifestyle-based investments.
Whether you’re looking for a practical home base near San José, a peaceful mountain retreat, or a tourism-focused venture, Alajuela Province offers a range of real estate opportunities in a stable and scenic region of Costa Rica.
Sell real estate or buy property in Costa Rica: what about land transfer taxes?
As I stated previously, it’s customary for the buyer to pay for all real estate transfer costs. So if you sell property in Costa Rica, you won´t have to worry about this. However, you will be responsible for paying the “Capital Gains Tax”, but this is another matter. If you have a real estate agent, you will need to pay his realtor comission. It´s customary for the seller, to pay for the realtor´s comission. Once you become the real estate owner, you should learn about several property taxes that must be paid.
What expenses and taxes must I be aware of if I buy real estate in Costa Rica?
When the public scripture (escritura de traspaso) is signed, you must pay for several things. First come the notary public fees. These are the legal fees he charges you, for his services. You must also pay the corresponding property transfer taxes and the Registry Stamps. All these things must be paid to have the property you bought duly registered to your name. Sadly, there have been instances where unscrupulous notary publics do not register the properties. This is why the choice of a notary is essential. This is why as a buyer, you must always choose the notary public when you buy properties in Costa Rica.
Investing in Real Estate in San José: The Heart of Costa Rica´s Central Valley
San José, the capital province of Costa Rica, is the country’s political, cultural, and economic center. While it may not offer beachfront living, it provides something equally valuable: convenience, infrastructure, and year-round spring-like weather in the Central Valley. For many investors, retirees, and expats, San José offers an ideal base for both residential and commercial real estate.
As attorneys, we assist clients with property purchases throughout San José Province — from bustling urban neighborhoods to tranquil mountain communities just outside the city.
The city of San José itself includes historic neighborhoods like Barrio Amón, Escalante, and La Sabana, where restored colonial homes and modern apartments attract both local professionals and international buyers. These areas are especially attractive for those seeking boutique hotels, Airbnb rentals, or urban living close to restaurants, galleries, and nightlife.
In the western part of the province, Escazú and Santa Ana are two of the most desirable areas for foreigners. Known for their upscale residential communities, international schools, private hospitals, shopping centers, and business parks, these towns offer a high standard of living just 15–20 minutes from downtown San José. Gated communities such as Villa Real, Alto Paloma, and Lindora are favorites among expats, diplomats, and corporate executives.
Ciudad Colón, located just west of Santa Ana, is a quieter alternative with a strong expat presence, charming small-town feel, and close proximity to the University for Peace and hiking trails. It’s well-suited for buyers seeking a blend of nature and accessibility.
The towns of Curridabat, Granadilla, and Guayabos on the eastern side of the valley are also increasingly popular, particularly among families and professionals. They offer a mix of condominiums, family homes, and gated communities, with easy access to universities, business districts, and shopping.
For those looking for cooler temperatures and lush surroundings, Atenas, Puriscal, and Aserrí offer mountain properties with panoramic views, fresh air, and a more rural pace of life — all within reach of the capital.
Whether you’re searching for an investment apartment, a family home in a secure community, or a countryside retreat, San José Province offers a wide range of real estate opportunities — all within a stable, well-connected environment.
Investing in Real Estate in Cartago: History, Nature and High Altitude Living
Cartago is a province rich in history, culture, and natural beauty — offering a unique real estate landscape in Costa Rica’s Central Valley. Known for its cool mountain climate, fertile soil, and colonial charm, Cartago is an excellent choice for buyers seeking a blend of tradition, tranquility, and long-term value.
As real estate attorneys, we guide clients through property purchases across the Cartago region, from urban homes and farms to rural retreats and mountain-view estates.
Cartago City, the former capital of Costa Rica, is a historic urban center with a strong local identity. It offers colonial-era architecture, cultural landmarks like the Basílica de los Ángeles, and a solid infrastructure including hospitals, universities, and commerce. The city is a practical and affordable place for those looking to invest in residential or commercial real estate in a quieter setting than San José.
Surrounding towns such as Paraíso, El Guarco, and Tejar offer family-friendly neighborhoods, fresh mountain air, and easy access to the capital via Route 2. These areas are ideal for buyers seeking a primary residence or a second home away from the faster pace of city life.
One of the most attractive areas for lifestyle and eco-conscious investors is Orosi Valley. With its lush greenery, hot springs, coffee farms, and riverside landscapes, Orosi is perfect for boutique hotels, vacation rentals, or private retreats. The region’s peaceful ambiance and connection to nature make it a favorite among wellness seekers and retirees.
For those interested in agricultural or self-sustainable living, Turrialba is a standout option. Known for its volcano, rivers, and rural charm, Turrialba offers large tracts of land, ideal for farming, agro-tourism, or conservation projects.
Cartago also appeals to Costa Ricans and expats alike who value a temperate climate, access to nature, and a sense of community. The province continues to develop steadily, with growing infrastructure and investment in housing, especially along the Inter-American Highway corridor.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional home in a historic town, a mountain-view property with cool breezes, or an investment in rural tourism or farming, Cartago offers a unique blend of stability, beauty, and opportunity.
Purchasing Real Estate in Limón: Caribbean Living and Untapped Potential
Limón Province stretches along Costa Rica’s entire Caribbean coast, offering a dramatically different lifestyle and environment compared to the Central Valley or Pacific coast. Known for its Afro-Caribbean culture, lush rainforests, and relaxed coastal towns, Limón is ideal for buyers seeking natural beauty, lower-density development, and authentic Costa Rican charm.
As real estate attorneys, we support clients purchasing property throughout Limón — whether for vacation homes, eco-tourism ventures, or long-term residential use.
The southern Caribbean coast, particularly Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, is the heart of Limón’s real estate activity. Known for its vibrant culture, yoga retreats, reggae music, and laid-back lifestyle, Puerto Viejo has become a favorite among expats and digital nomads. Beachfront properties, jungle villas, and rental homes near Playa Cocles, Punta Uva, and Manzanillo are in high demand, offering excellent potential for tourism-based income.
Further north, Cahuita is a quieter alternative with strong eco-tourism appeal, thanks to its national park, coral reefs, and proximity to Afro-Caribbean heritage. It’s a great location for buyers interested in boutique hotels, eco-lodges, or nature-focused retreats.
Limón City, the provincial capital and a key port hub, is currently undergoing major infrastructure improvements, including the expansion of the Moín Container Terminal (TCM) and logistics corridors. While still largely industrial, these developments signal long-term investment potential, particularly for commercial or logistics-related real estate.
Inland towns such as Guápiles and Siquirres serve as gateways between the Central Valley and the Caribbean. These areas offer agricultural properties, farms, and residential development opportunities at more accessible price points. With strong connections to San José via Route 32, they’re increasingly attractive for logistics, tourism, and sustainable development projects.
Limón Province appeals to adventurous investors and lifestyle buyers looking for something outside the mainstream. With continued investment in roadways, port infrastructure, and eco-tourism, the region is poised for gradual, organic growth. Its unique mix of culture, biodiversity, and coastal beauty creates a compelling case for long-term real estate investment.
Can you recommend good places to buy real estate in the central and south pacific side?
Most certainly. Jaco, Manuel Antonio, Dominical, Uvita, Ballena, and Osa are good places to purchase real estate near the beaches. These are definitely good places to invest in homes for sale in Costa Rica with beautiful ocean views. If you are planning to invest in Costa Rican beachfront properties, it´s important to know about the maritime zone regulations. I have written about interesting facts about Costa Rica, that you should check out, and get to know this country better.
How can I avoid problems if I buy purchase estate in Costa Rica?
By hiring us. Property transactions are a process that entrails due diligence, escrow coordination, correct notarized services, and proper registration. You should always hire the right Costa Rica real estate attorney to register the land transaction correctly. The notary public you choose is essential to acquire the real estate property for sale that you wish, and get a secure property title as a landowner.
Can you summarize the steps to follow to buy land in Costa Rica?
- We perform Due Diligence on the property: This is the initial step. Click here to learn about due diligence in Costa Rica.
- We contact escrow and an escrow account is opened.
- Money is transferred to the escrow account by the buyer.
- Purchase closing. We set up a date to sign the notarized purchase agreement.
- The escrow agent will transfer the money held in escrow, to the seller or to other parties that were designated as recipients in the escrow contract.
- Know the closing costs. Taxes, fees and Registry costs must be paid through escrow, to the notary public.
- As the designated notary publics, we will register the property in the buyer’s name at the Public Registry.
- Be aware of the yearly real estate taxes in Costa Rica, once you become a property owner.
- Be aware of property theft and your rights as a property owner.
Dr. Christopher Pirie.
Real estate lawyer in Costa Rica.
