Guides & analysis
Dated articles with cited sources. Legal and tax statements undergo expert review.
- Can foreigners own property in Costa Rica?
- What a land purchase contract must state
- Titled property vs. maritime-zone concession
- Owner taxes and running costs
- Does renting out an apartment pay off?
18 October 2026 · 5 min read
Osa Peninsula: Corcovado National Park and what to check before buying land
A quiet, protected region: regulated park access, forest and river buffers, beaches, legal access and water – a due diligence checklist.
9 October 2026 · 4 min read
Can foreigners own property in Costa Rica?
Yes – outside the coastal concession zone foreigners generally hold the same ownership rights as locals. Here is where the limits are.
26 September 2026 · 4 min read
Titled property vs. concession: the difference
A beachfront concession is not ownership. It has a term, conditions and limits for foreigners.
12 September 2026 · 4 min read
Buying property in Costa Rica step by step
From reservation and escrow through due diligence to notarial registration.
28 August 2026 · 3 min read
Closing costs: taxes and fees when buying
Transfer tax, notarial and registry costs, escrow and independent due diligence: how to build an itemized acquisition budget.
14 August 2026 · 4 min read
Which taxes does a property owner pay in Costa Rica?
Annual property tax, luxury home tax, rental income tax and VAT on short stays.
30 July 2026 · 4 min read
Rental apartments: reality vs. spreadsheet
How to read developer investment analyses – occupancy, nightly rate, commissions and hidden costs.
16 July 2026 · 3 min read
Guanacaste: why investors look to the Pacific coast
Liberia international airport, dry climate and mature tourism – plus water, infrastructure and seasonality.
30 June 2026 · 3 min read
Playas del Coco and Papagayo: close to airport and sea
Compare the specific address, condominium rules, ownership rights and operating costs in Coco and Papagayo.
11 June 2026 · 3 min read
Nosara: wellness, surf and strict nature protection
Surf and wellness as a visitor profile, not a guaranteed return: assess access, utilities and current parcel-specific restrictions.
22 May 2026 · 3 min read
Sámara: a calm family alternative
Assess Sámara for personal use and rentals through comparable properties, documented costs and legal checks.
7 May 2026 · 3 min read
Water and utilities: the most underestimated item
Verify water, wastewater and utility capacity for the actual project: a nearby pipe or the seller's assurance is not enough.
18 April 2026 · 3 min read
Land use and building permits
The difference between a general statement and official confirmation of a specific build.
27 March 2026 · 3 min read
Buying a lot that is still being subdivided?
Future subdivision is common but risky. Clauses that protect the buyer.
19 February 2026 · 3 min read
Own personally or through a company?
Costa Rican S.A. and S.R.L. companies – pros, annual duties and beneficial ownership registry.
29 January 2026 · 3 min read
Residency in Costa Rica for investors and retirees
Property ownership is not automatic residency. Understand the documented 2023 investment rules and verify the current requirements before buying.
11 December 2025 · 4 min read
Managing your property remotely
Management agreement, reporting, tropical maintenance and choosing a good partner.