A Guide to Real Estate in Costa Rica

Buying property in Costa Rica can feel complex at first. We’re here to answer the questions that matter most so you can move forward with confidence.

Contact us

Buying property in Costa Rica

The standard flow is: shortlist properties, complete legal due diligence, submit a purchase offer, deposit funds in escrow, and close through a licensed attorney/notary. At Cavu, we coordinate every step so timelines and risk are clear.

Yes. In most cases, foreigners have the same ownership rights as Costa Rican citizens, including fee-simple ownership. The key is doing clean title review and using a qualified legal team.

Yes, but beachfront assets may involve maritime-zone rules depending on exact parcel type. We verify zoning, concessions, and title status before you commit.

Some buyers use local bank financing, international lending, or seller financing. Terms vary by property and profile, so we help evaluate practical financing paths early.

Look for local track record, process transparency, legal coordination, and negotiation discipline. You want an advisor who can protect downside while still moving fast.

Pricing depends heavily on location, access, views, build quality, and income profile. Dominical/Uvita inventory spans entry-level homes to luxury estates and high-value development land.

Living in Costa Rica

Lifestyle drives cost. Housing, healthcare, transport, and imported goods are the biggest variables. Many couples live comfortably with a moderate budget, while luxury lifestyles scale higher.

For many people, yes. The country offers natural beauty, warm climate, and strong expat communities. We help clients align town selection with healthcare, pace, and daily logistics.

There is no single best place — it depends on goals. Dominical and nearby areas are ideal for buyers seeking nature, ocean access, and a lower-density lifestyle.

Yes. Conservation and sustainability policies are part of the national identity. Property buyers should still confirm local zoning and land-use regulations for each parcel.

It helps significantly for daily life and local integration. Many service providers in key areas speak English, but Spanish improves flexibility and long-term experience.

Costa Rica is seismically active, so resilient construction matters. We can help connect you with engineers and inspectors to evaluate structural quality before purchase.

Want to learn more?

Explore our blog to discover more about life and real estate in Costa Rica.