Tips for Foreign Buyers Navigating the Costa Rica Real Estate Market
Your trusted path to buying property in the Jaco Costa Rica area.
Jacó is more than just a beach town—it’s one of Costa Rica’s most dynamic real estate markets, offering beachfront condos, luxury villas, and investment-ready properties. For foreign buyers navigating Costa Rica, Jacó delivers a rare blend of natural beauty, solid infrastructure, and buyer-friendly regulations that make owning property here both secure and rewarding. Whether you’re seeking a retirement retreat, a vacation home, or a smart investment, understanding the process is essential to making a confident purchase.
The Benefits of Buying Property in Jacó as a Foreign Investor
Foreigners in Costa Rica enjoy the same property ownership rights as locals. This transparent legal framework creates a secure environment for international investors, retirees, and remote professionals. Here are the key reasons why Jacó continues to attract global buyers:
- Prime Location: Located only 90 minutes from San José and the international airport, Jacó is easily accessible.
- Strong Rental Market: The town enjoys high demand for vacation and long-term rentals, boosting ROI potential.
- Modern Amenities: Jacó offers high-speed internet, shopping centers, medical services, and quality dining options.
- Expat-Friendly Community: With English widely spoken, new residents quickly feel at home.
Additionally, RE/MAX Oceanside Realty specializes in matching foreign buyers with the right property. Our team provides expert guidance through every step. Explore current listings in Jacó to get started.
Understanding the Property Buying Process in Costa Rica
Buying property in a foreign country may feel overwhelming. However, with the right support, the process becomes seamless and secure. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Define Your Objectives : First, determine your goals. Are you looking for a beachfront condo, a luxury investment, or a permanent residence? This clarity will help streamline your search.
2. Work with a Local Expert; Next, partner with a reputable agency like RE/MAX Oceanside Realty. We offer local insight, exclusive listings, and multilingual support for a smooth buying experience.
3. Secure Legal Support: Buyers should always engage a Costa Rican attorney. We connect clients with trusted legal professionals who ensure every document is in order and the title is clear.
4. Consider Ownership Structures: You can own property in your name, through a corporation, or in a trust. Each option affects taxes and liability, so we guide you in selecting the most suitable structure for you.
5. Make an Offer and Conduct Due Diligence: Once you’ve found the right property, your agent will present a formal offer. During the due diligence period, your legal team examines zoning, permits, utilities, and boundaries to confirm everything is in place.
6. Close the Deal: Typically, the closing process takes 30–60 days. Funds are placed in escrow until all conditions are met, giving you peace of mind and financial protection.
What Makes Jacó Unique Among Costa Rica’s Coastal Towns?
- Reliable Infrastructure: Unlike many beach towns, Jacó has paved roads, consistent utilities, and 24/7 medical care.
- Active Lifestyle: From surfing and yoga to hiking and nightlife, Jacó offers something for everyone.
- High Growth Potential: New developments like Solea Jaco and Coastal Point Jaco make the area especially appealing for lifestyle buyers and investors alike.
Tips for Foreign Buyers Navigating the Market
To help you make the best decision, consider the following:
- Choose a Licensed Realtor: Always work with certified professionals who belong to Costa Rica’s Chamber of Real Estate.
- Review Maritime Zone Restrictions: Beachfront properties must meet legal and zoning requirements.
- Understand Property Zoning: Not all land is buildable—confirm your plans are legally viable before committing.
- Clarify HOA Terms: When buying a condo, review the fees and community rules in advance.
Our experienced team at RE/MAX Oceanside Realty is here to walk you through every detail. Start your property search today with expert guidance you can trust.
Ready to Buy in Jacó? Let RE/MAX Be Your Guide
Whether you’re dreaming of ocean views or planning your retirement abroad, Jacó has the perfect property—and lifestyle—to match. Work with a team that truly understands your needs, communicates in your language, and safeguards your investment from start to finish.
Visit RE/MAX Oceanside Realty or Contact us to begin your journey to Costa Rican property ownership.
VIDEO GUIDE: 00:34 Property Ownership in Costa Rica as a Foreigner 01:29 Concession Properties 02:42 The purchase process 04:55 Who pays the closing cost? 05:27 Buying through a Costa Rican Corporation 07:44 Purchasing in Costa Rica in your personal name 08:25 Bank Financing in Costa Rica as a Foreigner 09:29 Costa Rica Properties for Sale with Seller Financing 11:05 Real estate trends 12:08 Buying into a Gated Community 14:00 Costa Rica’s cost of living and monthly expenses 15:44 Getting Residency as a Foreigner 17:50 Free Costa Rica Buyer’s Guide
What Foreign Buyers Need to Know Before Purchasing in Jaco Beach, Costa Rica
Yes. Foreign buyers can legally own property in Costa Rica with the same ownership rights as Costa Rican citizens. There are no restrictions on foreigners purchasing titled (fee simple) property in Jaco Beach. The only exception is concession property, which is located within 150 meters of the high-tide line and subject to government lease rules.
Concession property refers to land within the Maritime Zone (ZMT)—the first 150 meters from the high-tide line. Ownership here is not fee simple; instead, buyers acquire government concessions with specific limitations. While concession property can be viable in some cases, it requires additional legal review and is not suitable for all buyers. REMAX Oceanside Realty helps buyers determine whether a property is fully titled or concession before moving forward.
No. Costa Rica does not operate with a centralized Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Because of this, property information can vary widely between platforms. Working with a seasoned local real estate team like REMAX Oceanside Realty is essential to ensure accurate pricing, legal clarity, and access to the full market.
The Costa Rica purchase process usually includes:
A negotiated purchase agreement
A 10% deposit held securely in escrow
A due diligence period for legal title review and inspections
A typical closing timeline of approximately 30 days
This process protects both buyers and sellers when handled correctly with qualified professionals.
Buyers should budget approximately 4% of the purchase price for closing costs. These typically include:
Legal fees
Property transfer tax
Escrow services
Registration costs
Closing costs can vary depending on ownership structure and property type.
Foreign buyers can purchase property either:
– In their personal name, or
– Through a Costa Rican corporation (S.A. or S.R.L.)
Buying through a corporation can offer liability protection, easier resale, and flexibility, but it also involves setup fees and annual maintenance costs. Ownership structure is an important early decision, especially for investors and long-term owners.
es. If you sell property as a non-resident individual, Costa Rica applies a 2.5% withholding tax on the sale price. This tax can often be avoided or mitigated with proper ownership structuring, which is why planning ahead with professional guidance is critical.
Local bank financing is possible but often challenging for non-residents, requiring higher down payments and extensive documentation. As a result, seller financing is common, especially in coastal markets like Jaco Beach. REMAX Oceanside Realty regularly helps buyers identify seller-financed opportunities.
Buyers should plan for:
HOA fees (for condos and gated communities)
Utilities (water, electricity, internet)
Property taxes
Maintenance and property management (if renting)
Understanding monthly and annual costs upfront helps buyers avoid surprises.
Purchasing property does not automatically grant residency, but it can support certain residency applications depending on investment amount and buyer profile. Residency options should be reviewed separately with qualified immigration professionals.
The safest way to buy property in Jaco Beach is by working with an experienced real estate team that coordinates:
Legal due diligence
Escrow services
Title verification
Clear explanations of ownership, financing, and costs
In this in-depth video, REMAX Oceanside Realty explains everything foreign buyers need to know—from ownership and financing to residency pathways—so you can purchase safely, confidently, and with clarity.
