A guide to buying real estate in Costa Rica for savvy investors

Let’s cut to the chase and dive into the nitty-gritty of purchasing property in Costa Rica. Whether you’re eyeing a beachfront villa in Tamarindo or a mountain retreat in Escazu, this guide’s got you covered.

Why Costa Rica? The real deal

Costa Rica isn’t just about sloths and surfing. From bustling San José to laid-back Nosara, there’s something for everyone.

The Costa Rican government, under leaders like Carlos Alvarado Quesada, has been rolling out the red carpet for foreign investors. Policies dating back to Daniel Oduber’s time have set the stage for a robust real estate market. But enough chit-chat — let’s get down to business.

Step 1: Know your stuff — Research is key

First things first, do your homework:

• Dive deep into regions like Guanacaste, Nosara and Jaco. Each has its own flavor and ROI potential.

• Get familiar with property values. They can vary wildly from mountains to coast.

• Stay on top of market trends. Keep an eye on Costa Rican real estate market and Tourism Board (ICT) policies.

• Understand different property types available, from raw land to turnkey homes.

Remember, knowledge is power. The more you know, the less likely you are to get involved in a bad deal.

Step 2: Find your wingman — Hire a killer agent

You wouldn’t go into battle without backup, right? Here’s how to find your perfect agent:

• Look for someone who knows Costa Rican law like the back of their hand.

• Consider big names, but don’t rule out smaller, local agencies.

• Ensure they speak your language — literally and figuratively.

• Check their track record and ask for references.

A good agent is worth their weight in gold. They’ll save you time, money, and a whole lot of headaches.

Step 3: Get legal — Understanding the rules of the game

Costa Rica isn’t the Wild West, but its laws might seem foreign to you. Here’s what you need to know:

• Familiarize yourself with Costa Rican real estate law.

• Get cozy with the idea of notaries — they’re crucial players in your property purchase.

• Don’t skimp on property title insurance.

• Understand the concept of maritime zone properties if you’re eyeing beachfront property.

Remember, ignorance of the law is no excuse. Do your homework, or better yet, hire a lawyer who specializes in Costa Rican real estate.

Step 4: Show me the money — Financing your dream

Unless you’re rolling in dough, you’ll probably need financing. Here’s the lowdown:

• Check out local banks.

• Consider international financing options.

• Be prepared for higher interest rates than you might be used to.

• Factor in exchange rates between your home currency and the Costa Rican colón.

• Look into developer financing for big projects.

Know your budget, understand your options, and be ready to move when you find the right property.

Step 5: Trust, but verify — Due diligence is your best friend

This is where the rubber meets the road. Here’s how to do due diligence right:

• Verify property titles through the National Registry.

• Check for liens and outstanding taxes or utility bills.

• Ensure the property is zoned for your intended use.

• Get a professional property survey done.

• Check water rights for land purchases.

• Look into the property’s history for legal disputes or environmental issues.

Hire a local lawyer to help you navigate this process. It’s an investment that’ll pay for itself many times over.

Step 6: Make your move — Crafting the right offer

Time to put your money where your mouth is:

• Use your research to determine a fair price.

• Be prepared to negotiate — it’s part of the culture.

• Use escrow services to protect your deposit.

• Consider contingencies carefully.

• Be extra cautious with pre-construction purchases.

Remember, a good offer isn’t just about the money — it’s about creating a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Step 7: Seal the deal — Closing the purchase

You’re in the home stretch now. Here’s how to bring it home:

• Sign the deed in front of a notary.

• Register your property with the National Registry.

• Pay your taxes, including the 1.5% property transfer tax.

• Set up utilities.

• Consider hiring a property manager for absentee ownership.

Once you’ve got the keys, look into residency programs like “rentista” and “pensionado” if you plan to spend significant time in Costa Rica.

The bottom line on buying Costa Rican real estate

Buying property in Costa Rica isn’t for the faint of heart, but if you do it right, it could be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. From San José’s markets to Tamarindo’s beaches to finding some nice hotels for sale in Costa Rica, there’s plenty of paradise waiting to be explored.

Knowledge is power in Costa Rican real estate. Do your homework, surround yourself with the right people, and don’t be afraid to ask tough questions.

At the end of the day, it’s all about being smart, prepared and willing to put in the work. The payoff? Waking up to howler monkeys, sipping fresh coconut water on your terrace, and living that “pura vida” lifestyle.

So, what are you waiting for? Your slice of “pura vida” is out there. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, your sense of adventure and this guide. You’re going to need all three.

The news and editorial staffs of the New York Daily News had no role in this post’s preparation.