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.

Rico Bernard

Founder & Broker at Bernard Realty

Service Areas: Costa Rica
Specialties: Expertise in Costa Rican property development, bilingual client communication, and personalized real estate investment services.

Call +506 6217-7788

Property Types

46% Land For Sale in Costa Rica
43% Commercial Properties in Costa Rica
7% Homes For Sale in Costa Rica
4% Other

Property Status

100% For Sale

Property Cities

14% San Isidro
14% Osa
14% Quepos
57% Other

About Rico Bernard

Founder and Real Estate Broker

I am an experienced real estate professional with over 38 years of experience in the industry. My story began in 1991 when I, a successful real estate broker in California, decided to relocate to Costa Rica and open a real estate office in Manuel Antonio on the central Pacific coast. Since then, I have been helping clients find and invest in properties throughout the country, with a special focus on land for developing condo-hotels and home sites in Guanacaste, the northern province, and the southern zone. In 2006, I expanded my reach and began working on several condo projects in Panama City, including the Ocean Club and the Pedasi Azuero project.

I pride myself on my ability to speak both Spanish and English, which enables me to effectively communicate with and understand the needs of both local and international clients. My office is based in San Isidro de Heredia, a strategic location that allows me to serve clients throughout Costa Rica and Panama.

My goal is to provide my clients with a comprehensive and personalized service that will help them navigate Costa Rica and Panama’s unique and dynamic real estate market. I understand that buying or investing in a property can be a daunting task, that’s why I am dedicated to listening and learning about my client’s goals and helping them find the perfect property that fits their vision and needs. I am committed to providing my clients with the knowledge, expertise, and support they need to make a successful and sustainable investment in the region.

Language: English, Spanish