Your Costa Rica Home Search

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Costa Rica with relatively few restrictions. Costa Rica encourages foreign investment in real estate, and ownership rights are well-protected. Non-residents have the same property rights as Costa Rican citizens. However, it’s crucial to work with a reputable Estate Agent and an attorney who specializes in real estate to navigate local regulations, verify property titles, and ensure a smooth transaction.

The legal fees and property transfer fees for closing in Costa Rica typically range from 3.5% to 3.9% of the property’s purchase price. These fees cover the services of a qualified real estate attorney who will handle the due diligence, title search, and ensure that the transaction adheres to all legal requirements. It’s essential to engage an experienced attorney to safeguard your interests and provide guidance throughout the closing process.

Property tax in Costa Rica is relatively low compared to many other countries. It typically ranges from 3,5 to 3,9% of the registered property value. The local municipality assesses and collects property taxes annually. It’s important to stay informed about any changes in tax laws and to consult with a local tax expert to ensure accurate compliance.

Costa Rica is generally considered a safe place to own real estate. The country has a stable political environment, and property rights are well-protected. However, like any real estate investment, it’s advisable to conduct thorough due diligence, work with reputable professionals,

The due diligence process in Costa Rica involves a comprehensive investigation into the legal and physical aspects of a property before completing a real estate transaction. This includes verifying property titles, checking for liens, confirming land use regulations, and ensuring compliance with zoning laws. Engaging a qualified attorney is crucial during this process to identify any potential issues and facilitate a smooth and secure transaction.

The seller pays the realtor’s commission in Costa Rica.

Although Costa Rica is taking steps towards regulating the Real Estate industry it is not there yet and a long way from US or Canadian standards.

Although Costa Rica is taking steps towards regulating the Real Estate industry it is not there yet and a long way from US or Canadian standards. When you choose an estate agent in Costa Rica to work with firstly make sure they have experience because with that comes reputation and trust. Check reviews online and then interview the agent yourself. See what their knowledge is like and very importantly that they understand you and what you want.

Yes, it is possible to secure financing for real estate purchases in Costa Rica. Both local and international banks offer mortgage options for foreigners but in a practice there are many hoops to jump through and it can be difficult to prove income to the lender’s satisfaction. Having a local attorney and a reputable real estate agent can help navigate the financing process and ensure compliance with all legal requirements. Banks are not the only lenders, but other sources may demand relatively high interest rates.

The real estate market in Costa Rica is diverse, offering a range of properties from beachfront homes to mountain retreats. The market has shown stability and growth in recent years, making it an attractive destination for investors. Regions with tourist appeal often experience higher demand. Conduct thorough research, consider your investment goals, and work with a knowledgeable real estate professional to make informed decisions in this dynamic market.

Costa Rica is renowned for its high-quality and affordable and modern healthcare system. There are a wide variety of public and private healthcare options in Costa Rica. The universal healthcare service is called Caja which has around 30 Caja hospitals and more than 1000 Ebais clinics, which is the equivalent of a free walk-in health clinic. The public health is available for residents who make payments to the Costa Rican Social Security Fund, or CCSS.
Costa Rica is famous for medical tourism and there are a number of private hospitals and clinics. Prices are lower than in the US. As a rough guide, an appointment with a doctor will cost about $50 USD, while a specialist may charge between $80 and $100. Major surgeries cost about half or a quarter of prices in the United States.
There is a booming wellness and beauty sector with many options throughout the country.