Are you dreaming of owning a Costa Rica beach house or planning on buying a house in Costa Rica as part of a tropical lifestyle change or retirement plan? You’re not alone. Costa Rica has become a top destination for expats due to its stable government, incredible biodiversity, warm climate, and welcoming communities. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about buying real estate in Costa Rica, from choosing the right property to closing the deal with confidence.
Why Buy Property in Costa Rica?
Whether you’re looking to invest, relocate, or retire, buying property in Costa Rica offers numerous benefits:
- Foreigners have the same rights as locals when it comes to property ownership.
- The country is known for its natural beauty, beachfront properties, and peaceful lifestyle.
- There are excellent opportunities for rental income and property appreciation.
Step 1: Understand the Basics of Purchasing Real Estate in Costa Rica
Before you start looking at listings, it helps to know what to expect:
- Foreigners can 100% own titled property in their own name.
- Beachfront properties in the Maritime Zone are under special regulation. Century 21 Ballena Properties can provide expert guidance to navigate these regulations and ensure compliance.
- Most property purchases are done in USD.
- A lawyer is required to draft the purchase-sale agreement and verify the property title. Century 21 Ballena Properties can help you connect with a trusted lawyer experienced in Costa Rican real estate law.
Step 2: Find the Right Location
Costa Rica offers a wide range of environments:
- Southern Zone (e.g., Ojochal, Uvita, Dominical): A hidden gem — lush, peaceful, and full of investment potential. Explore our listings to discover your dream home in this unspoiled region.
- Central Pacific: Great for beach lovers and investors.
- Northern Guanacaste: Popular but often pricier and more touristic.
Define your priorities: Proximity to the beach? Mountain views? Remote tranquility or town amenities?
Step 3: Work With a Trustworthy Realtor
A professional real estate service in Costa Rica can make or break your experience.
What to ask your realtor:
- Are you a licensed agent?
- Can you explain the due diligence process?
- Do you have experience helping expats?
- Can you show me properties with clear titles?
For vetted local expertise, we recommend working with the team at Century 21 Ballena Properties, one of the most respected real estate agencies in Costa Rica. We can help find your dream home and guide you every step of the way.
Step 4: Identify Your Dream Home or Investment Property
As you visit homes:
- Take notes on amenities, land size, and future development potential.
- Walk the property boundaries.
- Visit at different times of day.
- Ask about utilities, internet, and road access.
Handy Tip: Properties near paved roads and town centers tend to hold value better.
Step 5: Make an Offer and Close the Deal
Once you find the right property:
- Make a written offer through your realtor.
- Hire a local lawyer to perform a title search and create the purchase contract.
- Escrow accounts are commonly used for holding funds.
- Closing usually occurs within 30–60 days.
Closing costs typically range between 3.5%–4% of the purchase price.
Visa & Residency Considerations
You don’t need to be a resident to purchase property in Costa Rica, but if you plan to stay long-term, here are your main options:
- Pensionado Visa: Requires proof of at least $1,000/month in pension income. Ideal for retirees.
- Rentista Visa: Requires proof of $2,500/month in income for two years or a $60,000 deposit in a Costa Rican bank.
- Investor Visa: Requires an investment of at least $150,000 in real estate, business, or government-approved projects.
These visas typically grant temporary residency, which can be renewed and eventually converted to permanent residency. Working with a lawyer can help streamline your application and ensure compliance. For a deeper dive into the process, check out our article on How to Get Residency in Costa Rica Through Real Estate Investment.
Key Things to Know Before You Buy
- Hire a bilingual lawyer familiar with real estate law.
- Verify utilities and access rights before signing anything.
- Understand land use restrictions, especially in protected areas.
- Budget for maintenance, HOA, and property taxes (which are relatively low).
Recommended Reads
For more insights before you buy, explore these useful guides:
- Costa Rica vs California Real Estate
- 5 Mistakes Foreign Buyers Make When Buying Costa Rica Real Estate
- How to Generate Rental Income from Your Costa Rica Vacation Home
- Beachfront or Jungle Home in Costa Rica: Which is the Best Investment?
- 5 Reasons to Invest in Real Estate in Costa Rica’s Southern Zone
Ready to Begin?
Owning a home in Costa Rica is a dream within reach. With the right guidance, you can make a smart investment and enjoy the pura vida lifestyle.
Explore current listings and start your journey with trusted local experts: 👉 View Costa Rica Properties for Sale
