One of the most surprising things about Costa Rica is that foreigners have virtually the same property rights as citizens. You do NOT need residency to buy property. Here's what you need to know.
Can Foreigners Own Property?
Yes, absolutely. Foreigners can own property in Costa Rica with the same rights as citizens. There is no restriction on foreign property ownership for titled (fee simple) land.
The only exception: Maritime Zone land (the first 200 meters from the high tide line) has special rules. The first 50 meters is public and cannot be owned by anyone. The next 150 meters (concession zone) can only be leased, not owned, and requires residency.
The Buying Process
1. Find a property — Work with a reputable real estate agent 2. Due diligence — We recommend ALWAYS hiring a lawyer to verify: - Clear title in the National Registry - No liens, encumbrances, or boundary disputes - Proper zoning and permits - Water and electricity availability 3. Make an offer — Usually with a letter of intent 4. Sign a purchase agreement — Include contingencies and deposit (typically 10%) 5. Transfer at closing — Done at a notary public who handles the title transfer 6. Register — The notary registers the new title in the National Registry
Costs of Buying
| Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Transfer tax | 1.5% of registered value |
| Stamps and fees | ~0.5% |
| Notary fees | 1–1.5% |
| Legal due diligence | $500–$1,500 |
| Total closing costs | ~3.5–4.5% |
Annual Property Costs
- Property tax: 0.25% of registered value per year
- Corporation tax (if held in corporation): $120–$240/year
- Luxury home tax: Additional 0.25% for homes valued over ~$250,000
Best Areas for Investment
For appreciation: - Santa Ana / Escazú (growing demand, infrastructure development) - Nosara (wellness tourism boom) - Southern Zone (Uvita/Dominical — still undervalued)
For rental income: - Tamarindo (strong vacation rental market) - Manuel Antonio (year-round tourism) - La Fortuna/Arenal area (adventure tourism)
For retirement living: - Central Valley towns (Atenas, Grecia, San Ramón) - Playas del Coco (established, convenient) - Sámara (quiet, affordable)
Common Pitfalls
1. Buying without a lawyer — Never skip due diligence 2. Maritime Zone confusion — Verify if property is in the concession zone 3. Squatter rights — Costa Rica has adverse possession laws; verify no one is occupying the land 4. HOA fees — Can be substantial in gated communities 5. Buying before visiting long-term — Rent first, buy second
Our Role
While we're not a real estate agency, we help our residency clients navigate the property landscape as part of our concierge service. We can connect you with trusted real estate agents and lawyers.
If you're considering the Investor visa ($150,000+ in property), buying real estate can serve double duty — giving you both an asset and a residency path.
Contact us to discuss your options.
