As of 2024, foreigners can own property in Costa Rica with the same legal rights as Costa Rican nationals, no residency requirement, no ownership restrictions, and no special permits needed. Whether you are exploring a beachfront home, a mountain retreat, or an income-producing asset, buying property in Costa Rica is a realistic and well-established path for foreign nationals.

This guide is designed for international buyers who want a clear, step-by-step understanding of how the process works: from title types and legal structures to closing costs and professional representation.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Costa Rica?

Yes. Under Costa Rican law, foreign nationals hold the same property ownership rights as citizens. There is no requirement to establish residency, create a local entity, or obtain government authorization to purchase titled real estate. This applies to individuals and to foreign-owned corporations, which are commonly used as ownership vehicles for tax planning and estate succession purposes.

Before beginning a property search, clarify your intended use, primary residence, vacation home, rental investment, or land acquisition, alongside your timeline and total available budget, including estimated closing costs. These variables determine which regions, title types, and property structures are relevant to your search.

Costa Rica has no single national MLS. Property inventory is distributed across multiple platforms and private listing networks. Buyers working with 2CRRE gain access to the OMNI MLS, the most comprehensive multiple listing platform in Costa Rica, as well as 2CRRE’s active inventory across all major regions.

Once due diligence is underway and both parties agree to terms, a Promesa de Compraventa is executed. The purchase agreement defines the purchase price, payment schedule, earnest money deposit, closing timeline, and any contingencies.

All Costa Rican real estate transfers are executed before a licensed notary public. The notary prepares the escritura (transfer deed), confirms title, receives funds through escrow, and manages registration with the Registro Nacional. Transfer taxes and stamp duties are paid at this stage. The full closing process, from signed purchase agreement to registered deed, typically takes 30 to 60 days.

While cash remains the simplest closing method for those with liquidity, multiple financing options are available for real estate buyers.

• U.S.-style mortgage financing: Through 2CRRE-vetted partners, gives buyers 30-year fixed-rate loans structured similarly to what they'd use back home.

• Local Costa Rican banks: Banks such as Banco Nacional or BAC Credomatic lend to non-residents, and approval is entirely possible.

• Developer financing: Offers a practical alternative for new or pre-construction projects. Structured around construction milestones, these payment plans have become a standard market fixture.

• Private lending: Through either Costa Rican or offshore lenders, this is another route, mainly for land or properties that don't qualify for conventional financing.

Costa Rica rewards buyers who arrive prepared, with clear goals, the right representation, and a realistic picture of how the market operates.

• Detailed buyer consultation to define your search criteria, budget, and investment goals.

• A dedicated agent assigned to the region and property type you are targeting.

• Access to listings from the OMNI MLS and 2CRRE’s active inventory network.

• Area orientation and property showings, including remote video options where applicable.

• Comparative market analysis to inform your offer and validate pricing.

• Negotiations to protect your interests and secure the best available purchase terms.

• Due diligence coordination with legal representatives on both sides.

• Expert guidance on title types, maritime zone regulations, and corporate structures.

• Advisory support through closing and post-closing logistics.

• Access to a vetted roster of legal, inspection, and professional referrals.

When you are prepared to transition from your initial search to making an acquisition, our team is at your disposal through the entire Costa Rica real estate buyers guide process.