The Ultimate Guide to Buying Property in Costa Rica as a Foreigner (2025 Edition)

Buying a home or investment property abroad can feel overwhelming - but in Costa Rica, the process is surprisingly straightforward, even for foreigners. Whether you're considering a vacation home, a rental income property, or your future retirement retreat, this step-by-step guide will help you understand how to buy property in Costa Rica with confidence.

Buying a home in Costa Rica as a foreigner is easier than you think - this villa is a great example of the kind of beach properties available in Guanacaste.

✅ Can Foreigners Buy Property in Costa Rica?

Yes! Foreigners have the same property ownership rights as Costa Rican citizens in nearly all cases. You don’t need to be a resident, and you can own property in your personal name or through a Costa Rican corporation (which many buyers do for liability or tax reasons).

Important note: The only exception is beachfront “concession land,” which we’ll explain below.

🔑 Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Property in Costa Rica

1. Find a Reputable Real Estate Agent

Costa Rica does not have an official MLS system, so listings are not centralized. Working with a local, experienced real estate agent ensures you get access to verified listings, fair pricing, and trusted connections (lawyers, surveyors, etc.).

➡️ Tip: Choose an agent who speaks your language and understands the specific needs of foreign buyers.

2. Hire a Real Estate Attorney

This is non-negotiable. Your attorney will:

• Perform the title search

• Verify ownership and debts

• Draft the purchase-sale agreement

• Represent your interests during the closing

  
  

Legal fees typically range from 1–1.5% of the purchase price.

3. Make an Offer & Sign an Option to Purchase

Once you’ve found the right property, your agent will help you make an offer. After acceptance, both parties sign an “Option to Purchase” (contrato de opción), which outlines:

• Purchase price

• Due diligence period

• Closing date

• Escrow and deposit terms

  
  

A 10% deposit is common and held in escrow with a licensed third party (like Stewart Title or Secure Title).

4. Conduct Due Diligence

During this 2–4 week period, your attorney will:

• Verify the title (through the National Registry)

• Confirm the plot plan (survey)

• Ensure no liens, debts, or building restrictions

• Check zoning laws and permits

  
  

Only once due diligence is complete should you proceed to closing.

5. Close the Sale

Closing is usually handled at a notary public’s office (notaries in Costa Rica are licensed attorneys). You'll sign the property transfer deed, and the notary will register the transfer with the National Registry.

Closing costs generally range between 3–4% of the property value, including taxes, legal fees, and registration.

🏖️ A Note About Beachfront & Concession Land

In Costa Rica, beachfront land within 200 meters of the high-tide line is considered public maritime zone. The first 50 meters is public and cannot be owned. The next 150 meters may be available under a concession, but it’s a different legal structure (similar to a long-term lease).

Most foreign buyers choose fee simple titled land, which is fully owned and easier to finance or resell.

📋 Costs of Buying Property in Costa Rica

Here’s a quick breakdown of typical buyer expenses:

Expense	Estimated Cost
Attorney/legal fees	1–1.5% of purchase price
Transfer tax + stamps	2.5%
Escrow service	~$500–$800 USD
Property inspection	Optional, ~$200–$500

🏘️ Can I Buy Property Without Residency?

Yes — you don’t need to be a resident to buy property in Costa Rica. Many foreign buyers purchase as tourists. However, if you plan to stay long-term, investing $150,000 USD or more in real estate can help you qualify for Investor Residency (Inversionista Visa).

🌎 Tips for a Smooth Buying Experience

• 🔍 Always work with a bilingual real estate attorney

• 🏡 Visit the area during both high and low seasons

• 💻 Set up a Costa Rican corporation if buying for rental income

• 📑 Review HOA rules if buying a condo

• 🛂 Consider long-term visa options if planning to relocate

  
  

✨ Final Thoughts

Buying property in Costa Rica is safe, legal, and accessible to foreigners. With the right local team and clear expectations, the experience can be both profitable and fulfilling. Whether you’re investing for rental income or planting roots in paradise, the process is easier than you might think.

Ready to Explore Properties in Costa Rica?

As a local real estate expert in Playas del Coco and surrounding areas, I help international buyers find and purchase property with confidence.

Let’s turn your dream of owning property in Costa Rica into a reality.