Real Estate Law
Buying property in Costa Rica: a complete legal guide
Legal steps to buy real estate in Costa Rica. Title search, due diligence, deed, recording. Expensive mistakes you can avoid.
Real Estate Law
Real Estate Lawyers in Costa Rica — Safe Transactions, No Surprises
Due diligence, purchases, title reviews, and property contracts — in English.
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Real estate law in Costa Rica governs property purchases, titles and use. In Costa Rica a transfer is done by public deed before a notary, and foreigners can buy with the same rights as a national — except in the Maritime Zone. The step that protects your money is due diligence: verifying the title before you sign.
What's your situation?
Do any of these apply to you?
You're buying a property and want to confirm the title is clean
You're a foreigner and aren't sure what you can and cannot buy in Costa Rica
You're offered a beachfront property in the Maritime Zone
You need to structure the purchase through a corporation or trust
You have a boundary, possession, or breached purchase-contract dispute
Another real estate matter? Message us — we review your case confidentially.
Real Estate Services
Protecting your property investment
Property due diligence
Title reviews
Purchase & sale agreements
Lease contracts
Real estate development
Mortgage loans
Trust agreements (fideicomisos)
Maritime zone properties
Construction permits
Frequently Asked Questions
Real Estate Law Questions Answered
We provide clear information to help you understand your legal options and what to expect at every step.
Property transfers in Costa Rica are done via a public deed (escritura pública) before a notary. Before signing, it is essential to verify the title is clear of liens, mortgages, or annotations. A lawyer performs due diligence and protects your money during the process.
Yes. Foreigners have the same property rights as Costa Ricans, with no residency required. The exception is the Maritime Zone (the first 200 meters from the beach), which is governed by concession and has special restrictions for foreigners.
It is the legal investigation of the property before purchase: title and survey plan verification, annotations and liens, municipal taxes up to date, permits and use restrictions. It is the step that keeps you from buying a problem.
Closing costs run about 3.5%–4% of the price: transfer tax (1.5%), stamps, and notary fees. By custom they are usually split equally between buyer and seller, unless agreed otherwise. We define this in writing before signing.
Yes. Our bilingual attorney manages all communication, document review, and closing in English — no language barriers.
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