Why invest in Costa Rica
Steady international tourism, property rights for foreign buyers, a residency path for investors and a stable democracy. Here is what you need to know, with links to read more.
Why Costa Rica
Straight answers to the questions I hear most, with links to where you can read more.
Is there real demand?
Costa Rica received 2,689,278 international visitors by air in 2025. Manuel Antonio National Park, in Quepos, where two of the hotels are located, recorded 488,629 visits in 2024, most of them international.
Can a foreigner own the property?
Yes. Foreigners can own titled property in Costa Rica with the same rights as citizens, registered in the National Registry, with no residency required. The exception is the coastal zone: the first 50 m from the high-tide line are public, and the next 150 m are normally held under a government concession with limits for non-residents. Every listing is reviewed for this during due diligence.
Can my investment get me residency?
An investment of at least US$150,000, including Real Estate, can qualify you for investor residency, granted for two years and renewable while you keep the investment. Buying property does not grant citizenship directly: after 7 years of legal residency you can apply for naturalization. The extra tax incentives of Law 9996 had a five-year sign-up window that ended in July 2026, so confirm current terms with immigration (DGME) and your attorney.
Is the country stable?
Costa Rica is one of the oldest democracies in the Americas and abolished its army in 1948. Its institutions, legal system and property registry are a reason many investors choose it.
What about infrastructure?
Two international airports, Liberia (LIR) and San José (SJO), with direct flights from the US, Canada and Europe. In 2025, 98.6% of the country's electricity came from renewable sources.
General information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Laws and requirements change; confirm with a Costa Rican attorney and the relevant authorities. I can introduce you to an attorney who works with international buyers.
Properties across Costa Rica
Gold pins are EXCLUSIVE listings; blue pins are co-brokerage and other listings. Tap a pin to open the property. Locations are approximate.
From first inquiry to closing
Inquiry
Tell me what you are looking for and your timeline.
NDA
A confidentiality agreement protects the sellers and their business.
Qualification
Proof of funds, or a letter of intent where the seller requires it.
Private package
Offering memorandum, appraisal and financials, plus a private tour.
Due diligence & closing
Legal, title and operational review with your advisors, then closing.
Exclusive properties
EXCLUSIVEPacific Paradise Resort
EXCLUSIVEBitcoin acceptedHotel Le Priss Inn
EXCLUSIVERestaurante El Paraíso
FOR SALEHotel Villas Acacias
EXCLUSIVEBitcoin acceptedFinca Laguna de Tamarindo
EXCLUSIVEFinca Ecuestre de Lujo
EXCLUSIVECasa de Lujo en Birrí
Request information or schedule a call
Offering memorandums, appraisals, financials and site visits are shared with qualified buyers after an NDA and proof of funds. Colleagues in Costa Rica, Panama and the US are welcome to bring their clients.