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 managing the transaction documents.
These percentages are based on standard rates established in Costa Rica, though they can vary slightly depending on the complexity of the transaction.
Who Pays the Transaction Costs?
Unlike in some countries, there is no fixed rule in Costa Rica about who pays real estate transaction costs. The responsibility can be:
- Covered entirely by the buyer.
- Paid entirely by the seller.
- Shared between both parties through negotiation.
By law, however, each party is responsible for paying the fees related to their own legal representation and any government charges that correspond to their role in the transaction.
Why Expert Guidance is Key
Even though the percentages may seem straightforward, the selling process can still feel complex without the right guidance. Having a reliable attorney ensures all legal details are handled correctly and that your sale goes through without complications.
At Luxury Homes Costa Rica, we do more than just connect buyers and sellers—we also guide our clients through every step of the transaction and connect them with trusted legal professionals to make the process transparent and stress-free.
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