Buying a home in Costa Rica often means exploring financing options. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an investor, understanding the types of mortgages available—and how to secure the best rate—can save you time, money, and stress.

Types of Mortgages in Costa Rica

While the structure of loans may differ slightly from what you’re used to abroad, here are the most common financing options you’ll find:

1. Local Bank Mortgages

Costa Rican banks, both public and private, offer home loans in colones (₡) and U.S. dollars ($). Loan terms generally range from 15 to 30 years, with interest rates that may be fixed, variable, or a combination of both.

  • Pros: Widely available, regulated, and reliable.
  • Cons: The application process can be…

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Buying your first home is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming, especially in a foreign country where the process may differ from what you’re used to. In Costa Rica, the journey from pre-approval to closing follows a clear structure, and knowing each step in advance helps you move forward with confidence.

Step 1: Get Pre-Approved

Before you start house-hunting, it’s smart to understand your budget. In Costa Rica, local banks and some international lenders offer financing, though terms may vary. A pre-approval letter not only sets your price range but also signals to sellers that you’re a serious buyer.

Step 2: Find the Right Property

With your budget in hand, the fun begins. Whether you’re looking in Escazú, Santa Ana, Guanacaste, or…

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When it comes to buying or selling property in Costa Rica, success doesn’t just depend on timing or luck. Real estate here—just like anywhere else—is driven by a few fundamental elements. Whether you’re purchasing a vacation home, an investment property, or land for future development, the three most important factors remain the same: location, condition, and price.

Location Is Everything

Costa Rica offers a wide range of settings—from oceanfront villas on the Pacific Coast to mountain-view homes near San José. Where the property is located not only influences your lifestyle but also its resale and rental potential. A beachfront condo in Tamarindo, for example, may generate higher short-term rental income than a similar property further inland.

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Costa Rica’s rental market is booming, fueled by tourism and a growing expat community. This makes rental properties an attractive investment, offering both income potential and long-term appreciation. But while the opportunity is real, many investors fall into the same trap. The single biggest mistake? Buying a property without fully understanding the rental demand and costs involved.

Overestimating Rental Returns

It’s easy to assume that every property near the beach or in a popular city will generate steady rental income. However, not all areas attract the same level of demand. A luxury condo in Jacó may enjoy consistent short-term bookings, while a similar property in a less-visited town could sit vacant for months. Without accurate rental data,…

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When it comes to selling property, flexibility can be a powerful advantage. Rent-to-own, also known as a lease option, is one of the strategies that gives sellers an edge. This approach allows you to collect income today while locking in a committed buyer for tomorrow.

Why Consider Rent-to-Own as a Seller?

Steady Cash Flow
Instead of waiting until the home sells outright, you receive monthly rent payments, creating an immediate and reliable income stream.

Serious Buyer Commitment
Most lease-option agreements include an upfront option fee—often around 10% of the agreed price—which demonstrates the buyer’s intent to eventually purchase the property.

Less Urgency Around Closing
You don’t have to rush into the full sales process. The final transfer…

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When selling property in Costa Rica, you may hear the phrase “fee simple”—especially in conversations with international buyers. While the term doesn’t exist in Costa Rican legal code, it’s commonly used abroad to describe the most complete and secure form of property ownership.

What Does “Fee Simple” Mean?

In practical terms, “fee simple” refers to titled property. As the owner, you hold full legal rights to the land or home. This includes the ability to:

  • Sell it
  • Lease it
  • Transfer it
  • Pass it on to heirs

It’s the highest level of ownership available and is often considered the “gold standard” by foreign investors.

Why It Matters for Sellers

If the property you’re selling is titled (as opposed to concession land near…

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Real estate in Costa Rica often involves more than just beautiful homes and ocean views—it’s also about smart strategy. For sellers, especially those navigating estate planning or complex asset transfers, trusts have become a powerful legal tool worth considering.

If you’ve ever wondered how a trust could benefit your real estate transaction, this guide breaks it all down in clear, simple terms.

What Exactly Is a Trust?

At its core, a trust is a legal structure where one party holds property or assets on behalf of another. It’s a flexible arrangement that can offer both protection and peace of mind for sellers who want to manage their property efficiently—whether during life or after.

Why Consider a Trust When Selling Property?

Avoid…

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If you’re planning to sell a beachfront property in Costa Rica, chances are you’re dealing with what’s known as a concession property. And if that term has you scratching your head, you’re not alone. Concession properties operate under a different set of rules than titled land, and understanding those rules is key to a successful (and legal) sale.

So, let’s break it down—plain and simple—so you know exactly what to expect as a seller.

First Off: What Is a Concession Property?

In Costa Rica, most beachfront real estate falls under what’s called the Maritime Zone, a 200-meter stretch of land along the coast that is regulated by the Maritime Zone Law. Of that, the first 50 meters from the high tide line are public and completely off-limits for…

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Selling property in Costa Rica can be an exciting milestone, but it’s important to know the costs involved before closing a deal. Beyond finding a buyer, every real estate transaction comes with legal and government-related expenses. Understanding these fees upfront helps sellers avoid surprises and ensures a smoother process.

Typical Seller Costs

When selling property in Costa Rica, sellers should expect the following expenses:

  • Transfer Tax (1.5%) – Paid to the government, this is calculated on the property’s sale value.
  • Registry Stamps and Duties (around 1%) – These cover the filing and legal registration at the Public Registry.
  • Legal Fees (0.65%) – Attorneys or notaries charge this percentage of the property value for drafting and…

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Selling real estate in Costa Rica doesn’t just involve finding the right buyer and closing the deal—it also comes with certain tax responsibilities. One of the most important is the capital gains tax, which applies in many situations when a property changes hands. Here’s what you need to know before listing your home.

How Capital Gains Are Taxed

  • The standard rate is 15%, calculated on the profit you make (the difference between your purchase price and your selling price).
  • For people selling a property for the very first time under this law, there’s an option to pay a flat 2.25% on the total sales price instead of 15% on the gain.
  • If the property is owned through a financial investment fund, the tax rate is higher at 20%.

Exemption…

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