Blog
Guides to buying, selling and living in Costa Rica, written by the people who do it every day.
Building a House in Costa Rica vs Buying Turnkey
Build your own or buy a finished home? Time, cost, control and risk compared, what building involves, and which suits you.
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Costs of Buying Real Estate in Costa Rica (2027)
What it costs to buy property in Costa Rica: transfer tax, registry stamps, notary fees, escrow and VAT, typically 3.5% to 5.0% of the price, plus recurring holding costs.
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Navigating the Risks: What to Beware of When Buying Property in Costa Rica
Five pitfalls to avoid when buying in Costa Rica, and what to do about each: due diligence, written agreements, local law, legal advice and choosing an agent.
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Insight into the Costs of Owning a Property in Costa Rica
What it costs to own property in Costa Rica: 0.25% property tax, utilities, maintenance, insurance, property management, maid service and corporation fees.
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Decoding Taxation in Costa Rica: A Comprehensive Overview
The common taxes property owners and residents meet in Costa Rica: import, sales, income, capital gains, property, luxury home, road and corporate taxes, and FBAR for U.S…
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Costa Rican Residency: The Path for Property Owners
How property owners can seek residency through the Investor route: the investment requirement, temporary then permanent status, work and family rules, and what to confirm first.
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Healthcare in Costa Rica: A Comprehensive Guide for Expatriates
How healthcare works for expatriates in Costa Rica: the public Caja system, private hospitals and clinics, typical costs and choosing health insurance.
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Costa Rica: A Retirement Haven for North Americans
Why North Americans retire in Costa Rica: health, community and cost, with specific points for Canadians and U.S. citizens and the trade-offs to weigh.
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How Long Does It Take to Sell Real Estate in Costa Rica? Unlocking the Timeline
What decides how long a Costa Rica sale takes: your motivation, market conditions and the micro-market your property sits in, and how to shorten the timeline.
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