Why Foreign Investors Favor Investing in Costa Rica Real Estate?


Costa Rica has been ranked as one of the best travel destinations in the world. In fact, National Geographic named it as one of ten best destinations. The reasons are simple. Costa Rica has some of the best fishing in the world, a beautiful tropical rain forest, gorgeous beaches, water sports, boating, marinas and fabulous nightlife including casinos, gambling, great food and so much more.

Costa Rica has been ranked as one of the best travel destinations in the world. In fact, National Geographic named it as one of ten best destinations. The reasons are simple. Costa Rica has some of the best fishing in the world, a beautiful tropical rain forest, gorgeous beaches, water sports, boating, marinas and fabulous nightlife including casinos, gambling, great food and so much more. Foreigners are allowed to own real estate in Costa Rica, although it is recommended you consult with a Costa Rican attorney first before buying. Many foreign investors and retirees come here from the United States, Canada and Europe. Beach front and beach side property developments have brought an increase in buyers to Costa Rica because they realize the value in buying Costa Rican real estate. Costa Rica has a year round comfortable and beautiful climate and lush mountains attracting visitors and investors who appreciate the beauty of this country and its desirous real estate.

Reasons to Buy

Costa Rica offers excellent medical care. Low and affordable taxes and property prices and it are a safe democratic government. Many people speak English. There are also business opportunities of foreigners and it is close to the United States and Canada. The cost of living is relatively inexpensive. For instance, the average cost for maid service is about $200 a month. Food prices are cheap. You can get a good steak dinner for way under $20.00. Movie tickets are half the price in the United States, and other entertainment venues are cheap as well. So not only are you getting to purchase prime real estate at affordable prices, you living expenses are low as well.

Residency Requirements

Resident Investor residency status may be granted to individuals who invest the amount equal to U.S. $200,000 in investment capital or a U.S. $100,000 in forestry or tourism priority area real estate. Also, Pensioned and Rentista residency status may be granted to individuals who can demonstrate a fixed income from offshore resources. Pension income must be valued at U.S, $600 or more and Rentista status income must be valued at $1,000 per month. You will need certain notarized documents from your country showing your income. Check with a Costa Rican attorney for more information.

Home Building Standards and Inspections


Home builders in Costa Rica build homes comparable to U.S. home building standards. It is recommended that you obtain an inspection though even on new homes because there could be construction oversights. Your inspector will be able to advise you if there are any areas of concern or corrections that need to be made so you can have the builder fix them. Whether you are purchasing a newly constructed home or a resale, obtaining a home inspection by a competent and professional Costa Rican home inspection gives you the peace of mind that you are buying a home that is in good condition, habitable and marketable. Home inspectors meet the education and qualifications recognized by the American Society of Home Inspector (ASHI) and the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI). They have met the required number of hours of field training in Costa Rica and passed a national test administered by the Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors.

If you are thinking about buying real estate, you won’t be disappointed in living and owning property in Costa Rica. In fact, you will be the envy of your neighbors, family and business associates. With so much to offer, Costa Rica is like no other place in the world.

Share this article:

Related Articles


Latin America: Just One Chance for a 'Priceless' First Impression It makes a difference how Latin people perceive you. Make a good first impression and you will be rewarded ten-fold. It does not matter if you are retiring or just taking your school-aged kids to Mexico, Costa Rica, or another Latin American country to live for a year; a reliable, honest, sincere, helping hand from a resident is priceless. This article is going to explain, from my own experiences and those I have interviewed, how to obtain that treasure for yourself and what it will mean to you in times to come.

Grow Younger After Relocating to Latin America Many expatriates improve their health by relocating to Costa Rica, Mexico, or other Latin American countries. Not only has the stress of working been overcome, but also the demands of walking have made a significant change in their overall health. I have interviewed a number of people who find a new lifestyle in a Latin walking environment.

Relocating to Mexico or Costa Rica As A Retirement Option Retiring in Mexico or Costa Rica should be a transition from your busy past to a carefree future. This article addresses steps to take, while preplanning, to make that change to the best years of your life.

Retirees Investing in Costa Rican Real Estate Since Costa Rican law allows foreigners to purchase real estate in Costa Rica, retirees from the United States, Canada and Europe have been investing in Costa Rica for quite some time now. With economic problems in the U.S. and Europe, Costa Rica’s stable, democratic and prosperous economy make this country an even more desirable destination to live and retire.