Buying Costa Rica Real Estate

Are you thinking about buying Costa Rica real estate?  I know there are many beautiful places here. But, before you sign on the dotted line, there are several things you need to be aware of. Real estate agents have no licenses. Thus, anyone can represent they are a real estate agent. There is no government oversight of the real estate industry in Costa Rica. Consequently, anyone with a mouth and ears can sell real estate here. Consequently, you are at risk if not done correctly.

Living here I am well aware of the “real estate agents” who are nothing more than scammers. Scammers are protected here by the law. You can more money defrauding someone here than selling drugs. I know of fraud cases in the courts here for over ten years. You can never lose sight that the court system is not like the one back home. Courts here are run by inept and corrupt judges. No jury trials here. If you are a foreign national you enter the court areana with 2 strikes.

Real estate ownership here is possible if you do it right. A licensed Costa Rica attorney is all you need. All real estate purchases must be notarized. All Notary’s here must be licensed Codta Rica attorneys. However, not all licensed attorneys are Notaries. To have the notary designation requires additional education/ training, and many do not have it.

I recommend that buying Costa Rica real estate requires a licensed attorney. Also, one that speaks English as well as Spanish. It is vital for you to understand each step of the purchase. We offer to our clients legal services with a licensed Costa Rica Attorny and Notary. You can come by or call for an appointment. We will be happy to assist you.