How to Buy Property in Costa Rica: The Only Guide You Need
Can foreigners really buy property in Costa Rica? Yes—and here’s how (and where) to do it right
Canadians and Americans are increasingly buying property in Costa Rica, drawn by the country’s laid-back lifestyle, beautiful landscapes, and stable political climate. Whether you’re planning to retire early, secure a vacation home, or diversify your investment portfolio, Costa Rica—especially the vibrant coastal towns of Samara and Nosara—offers a compelling opportunity.
But while the idea of buying tropical property sounds simple, the process comes with unique considerations. This guide walks you through everything you need to know. It’s written specifically with Canadian and U.S. buyers in mind, and it focuses on the regions we know best: Samara and Nosara.
This is your one-stop guide to turning the Costa Rican dream into your new reality.
Yes, You Can Legally Own Property in Costa Rica
Let’s start with the most common question: Can foreigners really own property here? The answer is yes. Costa Rica allows foreign buyers to purchase titled property with the same legal rights as Costa Rican citizens. You don’t need permanent residency or special permission.
The most straightforward and secure type of property to purchase is known as “fee simple”—which gives you full ownership. This includes most homes, villas, condos, and land in Samara and Nosara.
However, not all properties are created equal. Some land near the beach falls within the Maritime Zone—200 meters from the high tide line—which operates under concession rather than fee simple. In this zone, rules are more complex, especially for non-residents. That’s why it’s essential to have a real estate attorney and a local expert guide you.
Samara vs. Nosara: Where Should You Buy?
Both towns have a strong expat presence and stunning coastal scenery, but they offer different vibes and lifestyles.
Samara is known for its relaxed pace, family-friendly atmosphere, and accessible pricing. It has a small-town feel where everything is walkable, and the sense of community is strong. Canadians and Americans love it here for its laid-back rhythm, lower cost of living, and connection to nature.
Nosara, on the other hand, is a wellness hub with an international flair. It’s home to world-class yoga studios, organic markets, boutique hotels, and luxury homes nestled into the jungle. With its high-end appeal and a booming short-term rental market, Nosara tends to attract investors and upscale buyers looking for both lifestyle and ROI.
Both towns are within reach of Liberia International Airport and only about an hour apart by car—so choosing between them really comes down to lifestyle preferences and budget.
Work with the Right Local Experts
Buying property in Costa Rica is very different from buying in Canada or the U.S., so it’s crucial to have a trusted team on the ground. Start with a reputable real estate agent—ideally one with deep local knowledge and a strong network, like RE/MAX Blue Ocean. Our team has offices in both Samara and Nosara and decades of combined experience helping foreign buyers.
A local real estate attorney is also essential. They will review property titles, verify legal status, conduct due diligence, and make sure there are no back taxes or liens. In Costa Rica, real estate transactions are finalized through a notary public—who also acts as the legal registrar—so working with a vetted legal team from the start is non-negotiable.
You’ll also want a professional home inspector to assess the property, especially in jungle or coastal areas where weather and wildlife can impact long-term maintenance.
Why Many Foreigners Buy Through a Corporation
Although not required, most Canadians and Americans choose to purchase property through a Costa Rican corporation (S.A. or SRL). This approach simplifies estate planning, offers certain tax and liability protections, and can make it easier to manage utilities, rental income, and future resale.
Setting up a corporation is straightforward with the help of a lawyer. It’s a one-time investment that can pay off in flexibility and legal protection down the road. We always work closely with trusted and well-known local lawyers.
What the Buying Process Actually Looks Like
Once you find the property you love—whether it’s a beachfront condo in Samara or a jungle retreat in Nosara—you’ll make an offer and sign a formal Option to Purchase and Sale Agreement. At this stage, a 10% deposit is typically placed into a secure escrow account. This is an example number. Get into contact with us if you’re already ready to learn more about it.
Next comes the due diligence phase. Your attorney will thoroughly review the property title, zoning, property taxes, and municipal records to ensure everything is in order. This process usually takes a few weeks.
Once everything checks out, the final purchase agreement is signed before a notary, who records the transaction with the National Property Registry. Expect closing costs as well.
Life After Closing: What to Expect
After the purchase, you’ll need to set up utilities, which can be done in your name or in the name of your corporation. If you plan to rent the property out, a local property manager is a wise move—especially in Nosara where rental demand is high and maintenance needs can be constant due to the jungle environment.
Many foreign owners also open a Costa Rican bank account to manage local expenses. Rental income is subject to tax, but the rates are reasonable, and your accountant or attorney can help you stay compliant.
Do You Need Residency to Buy or Live Here?
You don’t need residency to buy property. As a tourist, you can stay in Costa Rica for up to 180 days. However, if you’re planning to stay longer or live full-time, you may want to apply for one of Costa Rica’s residency programs.
Popular options include the Pensionado Visa for retirees with stable monthly income, the Rentista Visa for those with independent means, or the Investor Visa, which requires an investment of $150,000 USD or more—real estate counts. This one is newer and is also known as the Golden Visa.
Many of our clients start as part-time residents, then apply for full residency after a few years of owning and living here.
Is Buying in Costa Rica Right for You?
If you’re looking for a slower pace of life, surrounded by natural beauty and a warm, welcoming community, the answer is probably yes. Samara and Nosara each offer a different path to the same outcome: a better way to live. Whether you want to surf in the morning, run a remote business from the beach, or generate rental income, the possibilities are wide open.
At RE/MAX Blue Ocean, we help Canadians and Americans navigate every step of the property buying journey. From finding the perfect property to closing the deal, our local team is here to make it easy, legal, and low-stress. Come and buy property in Costa Rica with us!