Can foreigners legally own property in Costa Rica?
Absolutely. Foreigners have the same ownership rights as locals in most areas. The only exception is concession land (within 200 meters of the high tide line), which requires additional structure — but I’ll guide you through every legal step with trusted local attorneys.
What’s the difference between titled and concession property?
- Titled property is fully owned, just like in Canada or the U.S.
- Concession property is leased from the government (typically 20-year renewable terms) and usually sits inside the Maritime Zone.
Both can be great investments if managed correctly — the key is understanding the boundaries, zoning, and usage rights before buying.
How do I start the buying process?
Easy we start with a strategy call.
Once we narrow your goals (lifestyle, ROI, or development), I’ll send curated listings and coordinate viewings. Then, our legal team handles due diligence, title review, and closing.
What’s a normal closing timeline?
Most purchases close within 30- 60 days, depending on property type and documentation. Cash deals move faster, properties involving financing or concession approvals take longer.
Investment & Returns
Yes especially along the Central Pacific. Jacó, Hermosa, and Manuel Antonio are top performing zones for vacation rentals and Airbnb income.
With the right management, investors often see 8–12% annual ROI on short-term rentals.
Is Costa Rica a good market for rental income?
Yes — the Central Pacific remains one of Costa Rica’s most profitable luxury rental corridors. High occupancy, premium nightly rates, and steady tourism make it ideal for investors seeking strong cash flow and long-term appreciation in USD.
Do you help investors find Airbnb or flip opportunities?
That’s one of my specialties. I’ll identify high yield properties, help estimate renovation costs, and connect you with my network of local contractors, managers, and stagers.
We don’t chase listings, we curate performance.
🏝️ Can I buy land and build later?
Absolutely. Land plays are powerful in Costa Rica, especially if you buy near growth areas. I’ll ensure your parcel has legal water rights, zoning clarity, and access before you buy three details many agents overlook.
Do I need residency to buy in Costa Rica?
No. You can buy, sell, and hold property as a foreigner. Residency only matters for tax optimization and long-term living benefits — both of which we can plan around.
How are taxes handled?
Property taxes are refreshingly low typically 0.25% of registered value per year. If you own a corporation, there’s a small annual corporate tax (about $200–300 USD).
We’ll go over exact numbers before you sign.
How does due diligence work?
Your attorney performs a full title search, zoning verification, and confirms utility access, water rights, and building permits.
I work only with vetted legal professionals who specialize in foreign transactions.
🌴 Can I live in Costa Rica year-round?
Yes — many of my clients relocate full-time. Non-residents can stay up to 180 days on a tourist visa, then simply renew or apply for residency through investment, marriage, or pensionado programs.
Do you help with rentals or property management?
Yes. I have trusted local partners for property management, rental optimization, and cleaning/maintenance. You’ll have on-the-ground support even when you’re abroad.
Why work with Amanda Sells Costa Rica?
Because I don’t sell dreams — I deliver results.
Nearly a decade living and investing here means I know which deals perform, which to avoid, and how to move with clarity and confidence in Costa Rica’s unique market.
Can foreigners legally own property in Costa Rica?
Absolutely. Foreigners have the same ownership rights as locals in most areas. The only exception is concession land (within 200 meters of the high tide line), which requires additional structure — but I’ll guide you through every legal step with trusted local attorneys.
What’s the difference between titled and concession property?
- Titled property is fully owned, just like in Canada or the U.S.
- Concession property is leased from the government (typically 20-year renewable terms) and usually sits inside the Maritime Zone.
Both can be great investments if managed correctly — the key is understanding the boundaries, zoning, and usage rights before buying.
How do I start the buying process?
Easy we start with a strategy call.
Once we narrow your goals (lifestyle, ROI, or development), I’ll send curated listings and coordinate viewings. Then, our legal team handles due diligence, title review, and closing.
What’s a normal closing timeline?
Most purchases close within 30- 60 days, depending on property type and documentation. Cash deals move faster, properties involving financing or concession approvals take longer.
Investment & Returns
Yes especially along the Central Pacific. Jacó, Hermosa, and Manuel Antonio are top performing zones for vacation rentals and Airbnb income.
With the right management, investors often see 8–12% annual ROI on short-term rentals.
Is Costa Rica a good market for rental income?
Yes — the Central Pacific remains one of Costa Rica’s most profitable luxury rental corridors. High occupancy, premium nightly rates, and steady tourism make it ideal for investors seeking strong cash flow and long-term appreciation in USD.
Do you help investors find Airbnb or flip opportunities?
That’s one of my specialties. I’ll identify high yield properties, help estimate renovation costs, and connect you with my network of local contractors, managers, and stagers.
We don’t chase listings, we curate performance.
🏝️ Can I buy land and build later?
Absolutely. Land plays are powerful in Costa Rica, especially if you buy near growth areas. I’ll ensure your parcel has legal water rights, zoning clarity, and access before you buy three details many agents overlook.
Do I need residency to buy in Costa Rica?
No. You can buy, sell, and hold property as a foreigner. Residency only matters for tax optimization and long-term living benefits — both of which we can plan around.
How are taxes handled?
Property taxes are refreshingly low typically 0.25% of registered value per year. If you own a corporation, there’s a small annual corporate tax (about $200–300 USD).
We’ll go over exact numbers before you sign.
How does due diligence work?
Your attorney performs a full title search, zoning verification, and confirms utility access, water rights, and building permits.
I work only with vetted legal professionals who specialize in foreign transactions.
🌴 Can I live in Costa Rica year-round?
Yes — many of my clients relocate full-time. Non-residents can stay up to 180 days on a tourist visa, then simply renew or apply for residency through investment, marriage, or pensionado programs.
Do you help with rentals or property management?
Yes. I have trusted local partners for property management, rental optimization, and cleaning/maintenance. You’ll have on-the-ground support even when you’re abroad.
Why work with Amanda Sells Costa Rica?
Because I don’t sell dreams — I deliver results.
Nearly a decade living and investing here means I know which deals perform, which to avoid, and how to move with clarity and confidence in Costa Rica’s unique market.