The complete, step-by-step process for international buyers — explained in plain language. Costa Rica is one of the most welcoming countries in the world for foreign property owners, and the process is more straightforward than you might expect.
Costa Rica makes no legal distinction between local and foreign buyers. You get the same full ownership rights (fee-simple title), recorded in your name in the National Registry — and you do not need to be a resident or citizen to own property. The one exception is beachfront land in the Maritime Zone, which has special rules we'll explain. With the right team, buying here is secure and well-organized.
Clarify your budget, preferred region, and purpose (home, rental, investment). If you're financing, understand that most foreign buyers purchase in cash — local mortgages for non-residents are limited and carry higher rates. Many buyers set up funds in advance for a smooth transfer.
Your agent helps shortlist the right zonesOnce you've found the right property, your agent prepares a written offer (often via an "option to purchase" agreement). This sets the price, conditions, deposit, and due-diligence period. Offers are negotiable — there's room to discuss price and terms.
Negotiation is normal & expectedBoth parties sign a purchase-sale option agreement. A good-faith deposit (commonly around 10%) is placed — and this is the key point — into a neutral escrow account, not handed to the seller. The escrow company holds your funds safely until everything checks out.
Your money stays protected in escrowYour attorney verifies the property's title in the National Registry (Registro Nacional): confirming the seller is the true owner, that the title is clean (no liens, mortgages, or disputes), and checking boundaries, easements, taxes, and permits. This is where a good lawyer earns their fee — and where problems are caught before you buy.
Typically 2–4 weeksIn Costa Rica, a Notary Public (notario) is a specially licensed attorney with the legal authority to draft and register property transfers. They prepare the transfer deed (escritura) that officially moves ownership to your name.
The notario is a senior attorney, not a clerkAt closing, both parties sign the deed before the notary. The escrow company releases the purchase funds to the seller, and the closing costs and taxes are paid. You're now the owner.
Often done remotely with power of attorneyThe notary records the deed in the National Registry, making your ownership official and public. You receive your registered title. Congratulations — you own a piece of Costa Rica.
Welcome home 🎉Unlike in North America, a Costa Rican notary is a highly qualified attorney with special state authority. They are legally responsible for:
As the buyer, you typically have the right to choose the notary — an important protection.
Escrow is the single most important protection for foreign buyers. A registered, independent escrow company:
Always insist on a licensed escrow agent. Never wire funds directly to a seller.
| Cost | Typical Rate | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Tax Impuesto de Traspaso |
1.5% | One-time government tax to transfer ownership, paid at closing. |
| Notary / Legal Fees | ~1.25% + VAT | The notary's fee for drafting and registering the deed (plus 13% VAT on the fee). Often includes due-diligence work. |
| Registration & Stamps | ~0.5–0.8% | National Registry fees and documentary stamps (timbres). |
| Escrow Fee | ~$500–1,000 | Flat fee for the escrow service (varies by amount and company). |
| TOTAL CLOSING COSTS | ≈ 3.5–4% | Of the declared purchase price. |
Figures are typical market ranges for 2025–2026. Exact amounts depend on the property value and the professionals involved. Your attorney provides a precise quote before you commit.
A great agent is far more than someone who opens doors. As your representative, here's the value I bring to your purchase from start to finish: