Is it Safe to Invest in Costa Rican Real Estate?

Investing in Costa Rican real estate is considered safe for foreign investors. In Costa Rica, international buyers enjoy equal rights to purchase and own property as locals do. You can own property either in your name or through a Costa Rican corporation, which may be owned by a foreign entity. For more insights on investment safety, visit our Real Estate Investment Safety page.

How Can I Verify the Legality of a Property in Costa Rica?

To ensure a property’s legality in Costa Rica, check its registration in the National Public Registry of Properties. Legally registered properties have a unique Folio Real number and a Plano Catastro number. For detailed guidance, see our Property Legal Verification guide.

Who Manages the Transaction Funds in Costa Rica?

In Costa Rica, transaction funds over $10,000 must pass through a SUGEF-registered escrow agency, safeguarding your investment during the due diligence process. Bernard Realty recommends trusted escrow services for secure transactions. Learn more on our Escrow Services page.

Is a Real Estate License Required in Costa Rica?

In Costa Rica, real estate licensing is encouraged but not mandatory. Bernard Realty agents are licensed and adhere to standards set by Costa Rica Global Associations of Realtors, aligned with NAR standards. Discover more about our professional standards on our Agent Licensing page.

What About Title Insurance in Costa Rica?

While Title Insurance isn’t common in Costa Rica, thorough property investigations by attorneys offer similar security. They trace property histories to ensure clear titles. For more information, check out our Title Investigation Services section.

Understanding Property Taxes in Costa Rica?

Property taxes in Costa Rica are uniform across the country and notably low. The rate is generally 0.25% of the property’s registered value per annum. For instance, if you own a property with a registered value of $200,000, the annual property tax would be approximately $500. This makes Costa Rica an attractive destination for property investment. For more details on property taxation, refer to our Property Tax Overview section.

Can Foreigners Own Beachfront Property in Costa Rica?

Foreigners can own beachfront property in Costa Rica under certain conditions, such as holding a concession for 20 years or owning through a corporation structure in condo developments. For detailed information, visit Beachfront Ownership Regulations.

Options for Financing a Property in Costa Rica

While direct mortgages to foreigners are rare, there are alternative financing options, including owner financing or using a self-directed IRA. Explore financing options on our Property Financing page.

Residency Requirements for Living in Costa Rica

To live in Costa Rica full-time, legal residency is required. Temporary stays up to 180 days are allowed for most international travelers without special visas. Learn more about residency requirements on our Residency Guidelines page.

What to Expect for Closing Costs in Costa Rica

Closing costs in Costa Rica are government-regulated, usually about 4% of the property’s value. Costs include notary fees, transfer taxes, and documentary stamps. Get a detailed breakdown on our Closing Costs page.

Do I Need an Attorney for Property Purchase in Costa Rica?

An attorney is essential for property transactions in Costa Rica, handling due diligence and property registration. Bernard Realty can connect you with experienced attorneys. Find out more on our Legal Assistance page.

Options for Holding Property in Costa Rica

Properties in Costa Rica can be owned personally or through a Costa Rican Corporation. The latter is often recommended for non-residents. Our agents can provide detailed advice, as outlined on our Property Ownership Options page.

Cost of Real Estate in Costa Rica

Real estate costs in Costa Rica vary, catering to diverse budgets and preferences. Bernard Realty offers properties ranging from affordable lots to luxury estates. Explore our listings on the Property Listings page.

Homeowners Association Fees in Costa Rica

HOA fees depend on the development and amenities provided. These fees cover maintenance, security, and other services. For a comprehensive overview, visit our Homeowners Association Fees page.

Coastal Elegance: Boutique Residences in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Description

Property Description: Nestled in the Nicoya Peninsula, one of the world’s five Blue Zones, Santa Teresa is a vibrant mosaic of global and local cultures, where a 10-kilometer stretch of coastal bliss is home to people from all over the world. This melting pot of languages, traditions, and future visions lives in harmony, surrounded by white sandy beaches, untamed nature, and world-class surfing conditions—making Santa Teresa a slice of paradise on Earth.

This 2-hectare property offers perfectly shaped, wooded land with optimal access, located just 1.5 kilometers or a 3-minute drive from the main crossroads of Santa Teresa/Mal País. It is part of an already established high-end residential and commercial cluster experiencing explosive growth along the Pacific coast.

Amenities:

Semi-Olympic and family swimming pools
Co-working lounge
Yoga shala
Outdoor gym
TV room
Skate park

Infrastructure:

Underground electrical and telecom/fiber optic installations
Wastewater treatment plant
Visitor parking
24/7 security with a central security booth and perimeter fencing
Extensive property management services available in the area

Residence Features:

Constructed from metal, block, and concrete
100 m² of living space plus parking for at least one vehicle
2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms
Living room, dining area, and an Italian-style kitchen
Terrace, laundry room, side and back gardens
Surfboard rack
Air conditioning system
Porcelain flooring, PVC window frames
High ceilings and cross ventilation for natural cooling

Conclusion: These boutique residences are designed for those who value both luxury and sustainability, offering a perfect blend of comfort and environmental consciousness. Each feature is carefully crafted to enhance the living experience, from the spacious interiors and modern amenities to the serene outdoor surroundings, making every day a retreat into paradise.

Experience the pinnacle of coastal living in one of Costa Rica’s most sought-after destinations. For more information or to schedule a viewing, contact us today. Embrace the lifestyle you deserve in Santa Teresa, where culture meets luxury by the sea.