Costa Rica is a beautiful country, with gorgeous beaches, breathtaking mountains, lush green valleys and jungles, and plenty of land and sea activities. Many people choose to retire or move to Costa Rica to fulfill their dream of living in paradise and others make this their continuous vacation destination.You don't have to be a resident of Costa Rica to own property or enjoy the same ownership rights as citizens. Here in CR, real estate ownership is fully guaranteed by the constitution to all residents including foreigners.
You can find listings for properties and homes on the internet, in newspapers and with reputable real estate agents throughout the country. You will always have the option of purchasing a house in the area of your choice as the real estate market is full of options. Building your own home in Costa Rica can be very rewarding, yet the property prices within the city and urban areas is on the rise and getting too high for some.
When considering a real estate purchase, first we advise that you retain a good attorney to help guide you through the process. Contact your local Embassy or ask your Realtor for recommendations as they usually have someone they can refer you to.
In terms of financing and payment, you may be eligible for bank financing, and in some cases the seller may be willing to carry a mortgage for you. Either way it is best to get some good advice and assistance with your transaction. Your Realtor or Attorney can offer you guidance and advice throughout the due-diligence and negotiation process.
Things to
watch out for:
When purchasing land or building a new home
make sure you are very clear about the zoning restrictions,
especially in coastal areas.
Next you will want to find out about the
title to the property and any liens or encumbrances that may
be placed against it. You can find this information on
the Registro Nacional (http://www.registronacional.go.cr/principal.htm) which is in Spanish and
will let you know about the Title Status and also any liens
on the property. Again, your Attorney can also assist
you with this.
Make sure that what you are buying is
exactly what you are expecting. Be sure to visit your
new home or property and have all of your questions answered
by both the Seller and your Attorney. If anything
seems strange or you get a bad feeling, make sure to get a
second opinion from someone that you trust. Costa Rica, like
most other places has people who look to make money from
unsuspecting foreigners/buyers. If the deal seems too
good to be true - than it probably is!
Our research shows that 75% of the projects
that are being developed in Costa Rica do not have proper
titles of approved plans. Before you make any real
estate purchase you should ensure that the proper permits,
titles and plans are in place.
JP Wilson
Development holds the titles for all of our properties
securely in our safe and we are fully prepared for your
purchase.
Title to the property you purchase is
cost-effective and insured by LandAmerica Commonwealth Title
of Central America.
Financing is
available for qualified buyers at favorable rates.