Legal services
Legal advice for national and foreign clients at every stage of their real estate transactions in Costa Rica.
At our firm, we provide comprehensive legal support at every stage of the real estate process, for both national and foreign clients.
We conduct a comprehensive legal analysis of the property: verification of ownership and registry status, review of liens, annotations and litigation, and validation of municipal permits, land use and environmental compliance.
We provide complete legal advice throughout the entire purchase and sale process, including contract drafting, transaction closing, registry inscription, strategic negotiation and coordination with escrow agencies to safeguard funds.
We advise on the negotiation, drafting and review of contracts with builders, contractors and renovation companies. We protect your interests through warranty clauses, work schedules, quality control, staggered payment management and dispute resolution during the construction or renovation process.
Protect your investment through appropriate legal structures. We create corporations (S.A. or S.R.L.) for property acquisition and management, with legal representation and corporate administration services.
We draft and review customized residential and commercial lease contracts according to your needs, for both landlords and tenants, and offer resolution of rental disputes.
We defend your rights in disputes and judicial processes related to adverse possession, easements, boundaries, co-ownership, possession and conflicts in lease contracts.
We provide legal solutions tailored to those wishing to invest in Costa Rica, including assistance in property purchase, structuring through corporations or trusts, and coordination with other professionals.
How we work
4 clear stages, from the first consultation to the end. At each one you know what we do and what we need from you.
Book a consultationWe evaluate your specific needs and real estate objectives. We conduct a free consultation to fully understand your situation.
Complete verification of ownership, liens, municipal permits, and legal compliance. Risk and opportunity analysis.
Contract preparation, negotiation of favorable terms, and coordination with all parties involved in the transaction.
Notarial formalization, registration in public records, and delivery of complete documentation. Post-closing follow-up.
Real estate due diligence is a comprehensive legal investigation process we conduct before any real estate transaction. It includes ownership verification, lien review, pending litigation, municipal permits and environmental compliance.
A comprehensive property registry study includes verification of current ownership, review of property boundaries and measurements, analysis of any liens, mortgages, or encumbrances, verification of municipal permits and tax status, review of easements or restrictions, and confirmation that the property can be legally transferred. This study is essential to identify any potential legal issues before completing the purchase.
To purchase property in Costa Rica, you will need your identification (passport or cédula), the property registry study, cadastral plan, municipal permits verification, and documents verifying the source of funds. Our attorneys will assist you with obtaining all necessary documents and conducting thorough legal verifications.
Yes, foreigners have the same rights as Costa Ricans to purchase property, with some restrictions in maritime-terrestrial zones (within 200 meters of the high tide line). No residency or special immigration status is required to own real estate in Costa Rica. However, we recommend consulting with our attorneys to understand the best ownership structure for your specific situation and tax implications.
Yes, we advise foreign investors in Costa Rica. We provide services in English and Spanish, and coordinate with banks, notaries and other professionals. We also advise on legal structures for foreign investments.
The property purchase process in Costa Rica typically takes 30-60 days from the signing of the purchase agreement to the final closing. This includes time for due diligence, registry studies, obtaining necessary permits and clearances, and completing the transfer documentation. Complex transactions or properties with issues may take longer. Our attorneys work to expedite the process while ensuring all legal requirements are met.
The main taxes include transfer tax (1.5% of the registered value), property tax (0.25% annually of the fiscal value), luxury home tax (for properties over $204,000), stamps, registration fees, and notary fees. Capital gains tax may apply when selling property. Our attorneys can provide detailed advice on all tax obligations and help you structure your investment to optimize tax efficiency.
While not legally required, having a Costa Rican bank account can facilitate the property purchase process, especially for wire transfers and ongoing expenses like property taxes and utilities. Many banks require proof of legal income source and may have specific requirements for foreign account holders. Our attorneys can provide guidance on banking requirements and recommend trusted financial institutions.
Yes, we have experience in real estate dispute resolution including boundary conflicts, easements, lease contracts, co-ownership and adverse possession processes. We use both alternative dispute resolution methods and judicial representation when necessary.
Yes. Our services cover both residential and commercial properties. We have specific experience with shopping centers, offices, industrial warehouses, hotels and other commercial real estate, including regulatory aspects specific to each property type.
Guides from our team to understand your case before the consultation
Real estate
A visible entrance does not always guarantee legal access in Costa Rica. Before purchasing property, foreign buyers should verify whether access is legally established, properly registered, and aligned with the cadastral and legal reality of the property.
Real estate
Costa Rica reached #4 in the World Happiness Report 2026. Beyond the international recognition, this context is relevant for those considering a move, an investment, a property acquisition, or a new life chapter in the country.
Real estate
Updated guide for foreigners looking to buy property in Costa Rica. We explain rights, legal steps, due diligence, and the use of escrow.
Tell us about the property you're interested in. We'll review the title study, the risks and every step with you before you sign.
Documents to buy a property
or call us at +506 2494-0809
