While it is common knowledge that Costa Rica has the strongest economy and largest tourism industry in Central America, there are many other reasons why buyers choose Costa Rica. With an extremely stable government, Costa Rica provides a lucrative and safe environment for investment and retirement.
There are also many business opportunities for individuals hoping for a change of pace in a tropical paradise.
A growing number of expatriates from North America and Europe move to Costa Rica every year. In fact, many newcomers to Costa Rica are individuals of all ages looking to take advantage of the “Pura Vida” or pure life which Costa Rica provides. Whether they seek investment opportunities, beautiful homes, or an opportunity to enjoy local culture, newcomers to Costa Rica have positive experiences.
Whether one is looking for isolation and beauty in the mountains or along the sea, or modern residences in developed upscale towns, Costa Rica has it all at a substantially lower cost of living.
Because real estate activities in Costa Rica are unregulated by the government, it's recommended for foreigners to hire the services of reputable real estate agents. The Costa Rica Real Estate Board (CCCBR) is the oldest organization in the country that provides direction in this important activity.
On the other hand, FSBO Costa Rica provides an opportunity to property owners to reach Costa Rica real estate buyers and vice versa.
Costa Rica real estate buyers should always hire the services of well-known attorneys to obtain the best advice throughout the buying process. The United States Embassy has gathered a list of bilingual attorneys in Costa Rica at http://sanjose.usembassy.gov/attorney.html.
Please consider the following perspectives on the Costa Rica real estate market:
A Panorama - By Thomas A. Burke
Buying a Business in Costa Rica - By Thomas A. Burke
Buying? Building? Here is what you need to know - By Roger Petersen
Estate Planning in Costa Rica - By Thomas A. Burke
Legal Tips, Tricks, and Traps in Costa Rican Real Estate - By Thomas A. Burke-Maessen
Property Rights and Foreign Investment in Costa Rica - Includes information about beachfront property, squatter issues and expropriation risks.
Protecting Your Property Rights - By Juan José Lao Martin
Purchasing Real Estate in Costa Rica - Provides details of the real estate purchase process in Costa Rica. [1994]
Reform of Property Registration Systems - An in-depth report on structure, organization, functions and operations. [December 1999, Adobe Acrobat document]
Transactions and Financing in Costa Rica - Introduces the reader to legal aspects related to property ownership. [1998]