Buying property in a new country is a big step, whether you’re planning a permanent move to Costa Rica or investing in your future. It’s natural to have questions, especially when navigating unfamiliar systems and legal processes. The good news? With the right guidance, purchasing real estate in Costa Rica can be a smooth and rewarding experience.
At Remitly, we understand what it means to start fresh somewhere new. We’ve supported millions of immigrants as they build stable, fulfilling lives abroad, and we know how important it is to feel informed and confident when making big decisions like buying a home. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to walk you through the process, so you can make your Costa Rica real estate purchase with clarity and peace of mind.
How to buy property in Costa Rica
Buying property abroad is a dream for many expats, and Costa Rica stands out as a popular choice thanks to its stunning natural beauty, welcoming locals, and laid-back lifestyle. But understanding the real estate market and local laws is essential before taking the plunge.
Why Costa Rica is attracting buyers
It’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to Costa Rica. With its beautiful beaches, green mountains, and warm, welcoming culture, it offers a peaceful lifestyle that many find refreshing. The local “Pura Vida” way of life, focused on enjoying the moment and living simply, makes settling in feel less stressful and more meaningful.
Beyond the lifestyle, Costa Rica also has real investment potential. The country offers:
- A stable government and a growing economy
- Thriving tourism, creating strong demand for rental properties
- Steady increases in property values over the years (great news if you’re thinking long-term)
Another major plus is how open Costa Rica is to foreign buyers. You don’t need to be a resident to purchase property, and you have the same ownership rights as locals. With low property taxes, affordable healthcare, and helpful expat communities, many people find both opportunity and a true sense of home here.
The Costa Rican real estate market
Costa Rica’s real estate market offers something for everyone, from affordable condos in San José to luxury beachfront villas in Guanacaste and lively expat communities in Tamarindo. The market has remained consistently attractive for foreigners, thanks to steady property values and strong tourism growth.
It’s also reassuring to know that Costa Rica has:
- A strong legal system
- A long-standing tradition of protecting property rights
This helps make the buying process transparent and accessible for foreigners. That said, working with local experts and learning about the country’s real estate practices will help you avoid common missteps and feel more prepared from day one.
Can foreigners buy property in Costa Rica?
One of the reasons Costa Rica is so popular with international buyers is how welcoming and straightforward the property laws are. If you’re thinking about buying property in this Central American country, you’ll be glad to know that foreigners have the same property rights as Costa Rican citizens.
Foreigner-friendly ownership laws
In Costa Rica, foreigners can legally own property in their name, with no need for a local partner or complicated legal workarounds.
You can buy:
- Land
- Houses
- Condos
- Beachfront property (with some zoning exceptions in the public maritime zone)
It’s also worth noting that Costa Rica has a national property registry, where all titled properties are recorded and publicly accessible. This helps ensure transparency in transactions and allows your attorney to confirm ownership, liens, and property boundaries before you buy.
Types of property ownership available
Most foreign buyers choose between two types of ownership:
- Titled property (known as fee-simple)
- Gives you full rights to inhabit, rent, sell, or pass the property onto your family.
- Applies to most inland and non-maritime properties.
- It’s the most common form of real estate purchase.
- Condominium units
- Ideal if you want shared amenities like a pool, security services, and lower maintenance responsibilities.
- Managed by a homeowners’ association (HOA) that collects monthly fees for maintenance and shared services.
- Popular among part-time residents or investors looking for managed rentals.
Both ownership types are clearly regulated under Costa Rican law, and either can be a good fit depending on your needs and budget.
Common myths about buying property
There’s a common belief that owning property in Costa Rica automatically qualifies you for residency. While real estate ownership can help support a residency application, especially through investor visa programs, it doesn’t guarantee it on its own. Currently, to qualify for an investor residency, your property investment typically needs to be at least $150,000, though this may vary depending on immigration regulations.
Another concern people sometimes have is that the process is too complicated. In reality, if you’re working with a reputable real estate agent and an experienced attorney, the process is surprisingly manageable. Your legal team will guide you through due diligence, title checks, and escrow procedures. Many foreigners have successfully purchased property here, and with the right support, you can too.
Financial and legal essentials of buying real estate
When you’re buying property in Costa Rica, understanding the financial and legal side is just as important as finding the right location. Taking the time to get familiar with the process helps you avoid surprises and feel more confident every step of the way.
How real estate transactions work in Costa Rica
Most property purchases in Costa Rica involve three main parties:
- The buyer
- The seller
- A notary public (who also acts as your real estate attorney)
In Costa Rica, only a notary public can legally register a property transfer, so their role is essential. They’ll guide you through key steps like checking legal boundaries, verifying the seller’s ownership, and preparing the transfer deed.
Payments are typically made through secure escrow accounts, which hold funds safely until all legal requirements are met. These accounts are often managed by trusted companies regulated by SUGEF, Costa Rica’s financial authority. Using escrow gives both the buyer and seller peace of mind that the transaction is being handled properly.
Taxes and fees in Costa Rica
While the price of the property is the biggest expense, there are a few other costs you’ll want to include in your budget:
- Transfer tax: Around 1.5% of the property’s registered value.
- Notary/legal fees: Typically between 1% and 2%.
- Property registration fees: Approximately 0.8%.
You may also need to cover small municipal fees or document stamps. These fees are usually split between the buyer and seller, but this should be clarified in your purchase agreement.
Why does due diligence matter?
Doing your due diligence before buying isn’t just a formality, it’s how you protect your investment. Your attorney will:
- Perform a title search to confirm that the seller legally owns the property.
- Check for hidden debts, encumbrances, or mortgages on the property.
- Verify that the land is registered in the national property registry.
- Review zoning restrictions and building permits.
This process can take time, but it’s well worth the effort. Skipping it could result in legal complications or unexpected costs later on. Partnering with a qualified attorney who understands the local real estate system is one of the best decisions you can make.
Choosing the best location for you
One of the most important parts of buying property in Costa Rica is finding the right location. Your ideal spot will depend on your lifestyle, budget, future plans, and what kind of environment feels like home.
Popular regions for foreign buyers
San José, the capital city, is a great choice if you value urban living. It offers reliable public transportation, excellent healthcare facilities, international schools, and a wide variety of dining and cultural experiences. It’s especially appealing for families or those who want to stay close to essential services and job opportunities.
Guanacaste, on the northwest coast, is well known for its warm weather, dry climate, and beautiful beaches. Many foreign buyers choose this area for vacation homes, long-term investments, or peaceful retirement living. The region also has a growing infrastructure, with international schools, private hospitals, and an international airport.
Tamarindo is a favorite among expats for good reason. This beach town offers a strong sense of community, vibrant nightlife, and year-round activities like surfing, yoga, and cultural events. It strikes a balance between relaxation and energy, making it ideal for buyers who want connection and convenience in a coastal setting.
Lifestyle tips for expats and retirees
Before deciding on a location, think about your daily needs and how you see yourself living day-to-day. If regular access to healthcare is a priority, it might make sense to stay within reach of San José or other urban centers. Retirees often prefer places with strong expat networks, which can help with making friends, finding services in English, and feeling more settled.
It’s also worth considering how the area changes seasonally. Some beach towns are busier during high tourism seasons, while others stay quiet year-round. Spending time in different locations and speaking with expats who already live there can give you valuable insight into what life might be like once you move.
Evaluating property options
Photos and listings can only tell you so much. Before making a decision, take time to visit the property in person, ideally more than once and at different times of day. Look for:
- Paved roads, reliable utilities, and traffic patterns
- Internet access, nearby grocery stores, or clinics
- Condo or HOA rules, if applicable
- Resale potential and zoning regulations
Doing your research now will make it much easier to find a property that truly supports your lifestyle and goals.
How to buy your Costa Rican property: step-by-step
Buying property in Costa Rica is an exciting adventure, and with the right approach, it can be a smooth and secure one. You’ll feel more confident if you know how to face each stage, from choosing the right support to officially becoming a homeowner.
Work with a reliable real estate agent
One of the most important decisions you’ll make early on is choosing the right real estate agent. A trustworthy agent who understands the needs of expat buyers can guide you through local property laws, market trends, and negotiation strategies. Look for agents who are members of professional organizations like CRGAR (Costa Rica Global Association of Realtors), which promotes ethical standards and ongoing education.
A good agent will:
- Flag potential red flags early on
- Help you understand every document before you sign it
- Connect you with reputable local professionals
Ask for referrals from other foreign buyers, and don’t hesitate to interview a few agents before deciding.
Get professional inspections and appraisals
Before committing to a property, schedule both a professional home inspection and an appraisal. An inspection can reveal hidden issues like foundation cracks, outdated wiring, or plumbing problems, giving you a chance to renegotiate or walk away if you need to. It’s also a helpful tool for budgeting any future repairs or upgrades.
An appraisal gives you an objective assessment of the property’s value, helping you ensure you’re not overpaying. In Costa Rica, appraisals can be especially helpful if you’re buying in a less familiar area or want to confirm pricing before finalizing your offer.
Closing your real estate deal
Once you’ve agreed on a price, your attorney will draft the purchase agreement, outlining all the terms of the sale. At this point, you’ll transfer funds into a secure escrow account.
Your notary, who also serves as the legal authority on property transfers in Costa Rica, will then finalize the title registration and officially record the sale with the National Registry. This process typically takes between 30 and 60 days, depending on the property and complexity of the transaction. Once complete, you’ll receive the title deed and can officially call your Costa Rican property your own.
FAQs
Do foreigners have the same rights as locals when buying property in Costa Rica?
Yes. Foreigners have the same property ownership rights as Costa Rican citizens. You don’t need to be a resident to buy, and you can hold property in your name or through a registered company.
What legal steps should I take before buying a property?
Work with a qualified real estate attorney to conduct due diligence, verify the property title, and check for liens or zoning restrictions. This protects you from unexpected legal or financial issues down the road.
Can I earn rental income from my property as a non-resident?
Yes, foreign property owners can legally rent out their homes, including short-term rentals. Just be sure to report income and meet local tax obligations, especially if you plan to operate as a business.
How long does the property buying process usually take?
Once an offer is accepted, closing typically takes 30 to 60 days. This includes due diligence, legal paperwork, escrow funding, and official registration with Costa Rica’s National Registry.