How to buy property in Costa Rica, step by step

How does buying property in Costa Rica actually work? The process is orderly and, for a titled property, refreshingly straightforward. Here it is, step by step, from first offer to the keys.

1. Offer and option to purchase

Once you have chosen a property, you and the seller sign an option to purchase — a contract that sets the price and terms and reserves the property while you do your checks. A deposit, usually 10% to 20%, comes next.

2. Escrow

That deposit goes into an escrow account held by an independent, SUGEF-registered third party — not the seller, and not the agent. It stays there, safe, until closing conditions are met. Escrow is standard, and it protects both sides.

3. Due diligence

This is the heart of it, usually 30 to 45 days. Your attorney confirms clean title at the National Registry — each property has a folio real number showing the owner, boundaries, and any liens or mortgages — checks that construction permits and zoning are in order, and that utilities and taxes are current. For any coastal property, this is where you confirm whether it is titled or concession land.

4. Closing before a notary

In Costa Rica a notary public is a specially licensed attorney with real legal authority. They draft the transfer deed, both parties sign, funds are released from escrow, and the deed is registered with the National Registry — the moment ownership officially transfers.

5. Costs and after

Budget closing costs of roughly 3.5% to 4% of the price: a transfer tax of 1.5%, registry fees around 0.5%, documentary stamps, and legal fees. Afterward, register at the municipality, move the utilities into your name, and you are done.

At a glance

• Offer → option to purchase, with a 10%–20% deposit.
• Escrow via a SUGEF-registered agent.
• Due diligence: ~30–45 days — title, permits, liens, utilities.
• Closing: before a notary public; deed registered at the National Registry.
• Closing costs: ~3.5%–4% of the price.

The short version: buying in Costa Rica runs offer → escrow → due diligence → notary closing, taking a few weeks for a clean titled property, with closing costs around 3.5%–4%. The Sanctuary Estate is titled land, which keeps the process simple. To start a conversation, get in touch.

This is general information, not legal advice; a Costa Rican real-estate attorney should guide any purchase.