🏠 Real Estate

Real Estate

Our real estate practice is the cornerstone of Funes & Matthys. We have guided hundreds of foreign investors through successful property acquisitions across Costa Rica. From beachfront condos in Guanacaste to commercial properties in the Central Valley, our team ensures every transaction is legally sound, properly structured, and completed efficiently.

How We Help

Property due diligence and title search

We conduct a comprehensive search at the Registro Nacional to verify the full ownership chain, confirm there are no liens, encumbrances, or annotations, and ensure you are purchasing clean, marketable title.

Purchase agreement drafting and negotiation

We draft bilingual purchase agreements that protect buyer interests with carefully structured contingency clauses, payment terms, and closing conditions tailored to Costa Rican real estate law.

Escrow and closing coordination

We manage escrow deposits with trusted institutions, coordinate with the notary public, and ensure all contractual conditions are fully satisfied before the final transfer of title.

Condominium and HOA documentation review

We review condominium bylaws, association financials, special assessments, and common area obligations to ensure you understand all rights and responsibilities before purchasing.

Maritime zone (ZMT) concession guidance

We help you navigate the legal requirements for obtaining concession rights on coastal properties within 200 meters of the high tide line, including municipal permits and residency considerations.

Property tax and transfer tax advisory

We calculate your transfer tax (1.5% of declared value), annual property tax, and luxury home tax (impuesto solidario), and advise on strategies to optimize your overall tax position.

Seller representation and negotiation

We represent sellers throughout the transaction process, negotiate favorable terms on your behalf, and ensure full compliance with all disclosure requirements under Costa Rican law.

Foreign investment structuring for real estate

We advise on whether to hold property personally or through a corporate entity such as an S.A. or S.R.L., analyzing tax implications, liability protection, and long-term estate planning considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Contact us today for a consultation about your legal needs in Costa Rica.

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