Costa Rica offers a variety of properties, including:

• Residential homes: Villas, condos, and townhouses.
• Land: Beachfront, mountain, agricultural, and urban plots.
• Commercial properties: Hotels, restaurants, and retail spaces.
• Eco-properties: Farms, reserves, and sustainable developments.

Buyers should budget for additional costs, including:

• Transfer tax: 1.5% of the purchase price.
• Legal fees: 1–2% of the property value.
• Registration fees: Approximately 0.5%.
• Notary fees: About 1.25%.
  Additional costs may include surveys, appraisals, and escrow fees.

• Conduct a title search through the National Registry to verify the seller's ownership and ensure no liens or disputes exist.
• Work with a qualified real estate lawyer and avoid unreputable agents.

Yes, properties must comply with zoning laws (Plan Regulador) and environmental regulations:

• Construction projects may require SETENA approval for environmental impact assessments.
• Development within maritime zones is highly regulated and requires government-issued concessions.

Financing options are limited:

• Costa Rican banks offer loans primarily to residents, often requiring a 30–50% down payment and charging 6–10% interest rates.
• Many buyers rely on owner financing or funds from their home country.

• Annual property tax: 0.25% of the declared value in the National Registry.
• Luxury tax: Applies to homes valued over $200,000, with rates from 0.25% to 0.55%.

Yes, Costa Rica offers Investor Residency to those who invest at least $150,000 in real estate or other approved assets. This grants temporary residency, which is renewable every two years.

Many buyers choose to purchase property through a Costa Rican corporation (S.A. or Limitada) for benefits like:

• Simplified transfer of ownership.
• Limited liability protection.
• Privacy and tax advantages.

• Work with reputable real estate agents and legal professionals.
• Conduct thorough due diligence, including checking titles, zoning, and environmental regulations.
• Use escrow services to manage payments securely.

• Vacation rentals in tourist areas can yield 7–12% ROI annually, depending on location and occupancy.
• Long-term appreciation rates for land and homes in high-demand areas range from 5–10% annually.

The closing process typically takes 30–60 days, depending on the complexity of due diligence and whether financing is involved.

While you can buy property near the beach, land within 200 meters of the high-tide line is governed by maritime laws. Ownership here is restricted, and usage often requires a concession agreement.

The real estate industry in Costa Rica is largely unregulated, meaning anyone can act as an agent. To avoid issues, work with agents affiliated with professional organizations like CRGAR or NAR Costa Rica.

• Central Valley: Escazú, Santa Ana, and Rohrmoser for urban and luxury homes.
• Nicoya Peninsula: Santa Teresa, Montezuma, and Nosara for beachfront properties.
• Guanacaste: Tamarindo and Flamingo for vacation rentals and resorts.
• Southern Zone: Uvita, Dominical, and Ojochal for eco-living and ocean-view homes.

The real estate industry in Costa Rica is largely unregulated, meaning anyone can act as an agent. To avoid issues, work with agents affiliated with professional organizations like CRGAR or NAR Costa Rica.