Guide 01
How to Buy Real Estate in Costa Rica
Flamingo Beach Realty
3 min read
Key Takeaways
- Foreigners have the same property ownership rights as Costa Rican citizens in most property transactions.
- Always hire a qualified Costa Rican real estate attorney for due diligence.
- International escrow provides secure transaction handling.
- Closing costs typically range from 3.5%–5% of purchase price.
- Understanding fee simple vs concession property is essential before purchasing beachfront real estate.
Can Foreigners Buy Real Estate in Costa Rica?
Yes. Foreign buyers can legally purchase and own real estate in Costa Rica with nearly the same rights as Costa Rican citizens. This includes luxury villas, condos, land, investment properties, and most beachfront homes.
The primary exception involves concession beachfront property, which has different ownership rules and requires careful legal review.
Costa Rica remains one of the most attractive international property markets thanks to political stability, strong property rights, lifestyle appeal, and world-class coastal communities.
The 6-Step Buying Process
Buying property in Costa Rica is straightforward when guided by experienced professionals.
1. Define Your Budget and Search
Establish your total budget, including acquisition costs, legal fees, taxes, and any post-purchase upgrades. Identify communities aligned with your goals—primary residence, vacation home, retirement, or investment property.
2. Submit an Offer and Purchase Agreement
Once you identify the right property, an offer is presented through a Purchase and Sale Agreement (PSA). This outlines price, deposit structure, timelines, contingencies, and transaction conditions.
3. Legal Due Diligence
Your attorney verifies ownership, title status, liens, encumbrances, zoning, water access, permits, HOA obligations, and any legal risks before proceeding.
4. Open International Escrow
Funds are placed in secure international escrow to protect both buyer and seller throughout the transaction process.
5. Closing via Public Deed
The transaction closes before a Costa Rican notary-attorney through execution of a public deed.
6. Title Registration
Ownership is formally recorded in Costa Rica’s National Registry, making you the legal owner.
Ownership Structures for Foreign Buyers
Buyers may purchase property personally or through a Costa Rican corporation.
Corporation ownership can provide administrative flexibility, estate planning advantages, and simplified asset management depending on the buyer’s objectives.
Your attorney should advise on the most appropriate structure.
Fee Simple vs Concession Property
Most inland and standard residential properties are fee simple, meaning direct ownership.
Some beachfront properties fall under concession ownership, where land use rights are granted rather than outright ownership.
This distinction makes legal due diligence essential before buying beachfront real estate.
Ready to start your search?
Browse our current listings in Playa Flamingo, Reserva Conchal, Hacienda Pinilla, and across Guanacaste.
View ListingsClosing Costs for Buyers
Typical acquisition costs include:
- Transfer Tax: approximately 1.5%
- Documentary Stamps: approximately 0.25%
- Attorney Fees: approximately 1.25%–1.5%
- Registry Fees: approximately 0.15%
- Escrow Fees: variable depending on transaction
Total buyer closing costs typically range from 3.5% to 5%.
Top Luxury Communities in Guanacaste
Playa Flamingo
Known for luxury beachfront homes, marina access, and premium lifestyle amenities.
Reserva Conchal
Luxury resort community offering golf, beach club access, and high-end residences.
Hacienda Pinilla
Expansive luxury community with golf, equestrian facilities, beach access, and resort services.
Las Catalinas
Walkable luxury coastal village with European-inspired architecture and strong vacation rental appeal.
Peninsula Papagayo
Costa Rica’s most exclusive ultra-luxury resort destination.
Why Work with Flamingo Beach Realty?
Flamingo Beach Realty provides concierge-level guidance for international buyers seeking luxury real estate in Costa Rica.
Our team assists with community selection, property tours, legal coordination, negotiations, and local market expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners buy beachfront property in Costa Rica?
Yes, but some beachfront property may be concession property rather than fee simple ownership.
Do I need to be a resident to buy property?
No. Residency is not required to purchase property in Costa Rica.
How long does the process take?
Most transactions close within 30–60 days depending on due diligence and financing structure.
Do I need a lawyer?
Yes. Independent legal representation is strongly recommended.
Work With Flamingo Beach Realty
With deep local expertise across Guanacaste, FBR helps international buyers move from research to confident ownership.
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