Can a foreigner buy property in Costa Rica?

Yes, foreigners have the same property ownership rights as Costa Rican citizens for most types of property. The main exception is the maritime zone (within 200 meters of the high tide line), where concessions require specific residency requirements. Our team guides you through the entire acquisition process.

How long does a real estate transaction typically take?

A typical property purchase in Costa Rica takes 30 to 60 days from signing the purchase agreement to closing. This includes due diligence, title search, property survey, and notarization. Complex transactions or those requiring permits may take longer.

Do I need to be present in Costa Rica to buy property?

No. We can execute the entire transaction through a power of attorney. This is especially common for international clients. We handle all documentation, government filings, and closing procedures on your behalf.

What are the costs associated with buying property in Costa Rica?

Typical closing costs range from 3.5% to 4.5% of the property value, including transfer tax (1.5%), registration fees, notary fees, and legal fees. We provide a detailed cost breakdown before you commit to any transaction.

Trusted Legal Counsel in Costa Rica

Your Property Investment in Costa Rica, Protected

Name: Funes & Matthys Abogados
Address: Avenida Escazu, Building AE 202, 4th Floor, Office 404, Escazu, CR
Telephone: +506 2201-1500
Price range: $$$

Funes & Matthys provides comprehensive legal services to foreign investors acquiring assets and transitioning to Costa Rica. From real estate transactions to corporate structuring, we protect your interests at every step.

Schedule a Consultation Explore Practice Areas

Years of Experience

Transactions Completed

Client Countries

Our Expertise

Practice Areas

Comprehensive legal solutions for foreign investors in Costa Rica

🏠

Real Estate

Complete legal support for property acquisition, due diligence, title verification, and closing.

🏢

Corporate & Investment

Company formation, joint ventures, foreign investment structuring, and regulatory compliance.

🏦

Banking & Finance

Mortgage structuring, escrow management, financial regulatory compliance, and loan documentation.

🛂

Immigration

Residency permits, investor visas, work permits, and family reunification for foreign nationals.

📜

Succession & Inheritance

Estate planning, will preparation, probate proceedings, and cross-border inheritance matters.

💡

Intellectual Property

Trademark registration, patent protection, copyright, and IP portfolio management.

⚖️

Labor Law

Employment contracts, labor compliance, dispute resolution, and workforce regulations.

Our Difference

Why Funes & Matthys

Fully Bilingual Team

Native English and Spanish speakers ensure nothing is lost in translation during your most important legal matters.

Foreign Investor Focus

We understand the unique challenges and opportunities that foreign investors face in the Costa Rica market.

End-to-End Service

From initial consultation through closing and beyond, we handle every aspect of your legal needs.

For Attorneys

Co-Lawyering Services

Are you an attorney with clients investing in Costa Rica? We provide specialized local expertise, bilingual communication support, and on-the-ground legal services to complement your practice.

Learn About Co-Lawyering

Client Stories

What Our Clients Say

Funes & Matthys made our property purchase in Costa Rica seamless. Their bilingual team handled everything from due diligence to closing with exceptional professionalism.

James & Sarah M.

California, USA

As a Canadian investor, I needed a firm that understood both international law and local Costa Rican regulations. Funes & Matthys exceeded every expectation.

Robert K.

Toronto, Canada

The co-lawyering service was invaluable for our firm. Having a trusted partner on the ground in Costa Rica made all the difference for our clients.

Attorney Patricia L.

Miami, USA

— Interactive Tool

Closing Cost Calculator

Estimate the costs of your property purchase in Costa Rica

Property Value (USD)

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

View All FAQs →

Get In Touch

Start Your Consultation

Tell us about your legal needs and we'll respond within 24 hours.

Avenida Escazu, Building AE 202
4th Floor, Office 404
Escazu, Costa Rica

+506 2201-1500

info@funes-matthys.com

Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (CST)

Stay Informed

Legal Insights for Investors

Get monthly updates on Costa Rica real estate law, investment opportunities, and regulatory changes.