How to find a house in Costa Rica? Here are our tips!

Do you dream of moving to Costa Rica and finding the perfect home? This video is for you! We guide you through the fundamental steps to find your ideal home in this tropical paradise. From the housing options available to the various areas and neighborhoods to consider, let’s explore the different options to meet your housing needs. We provide you with valuable advice on how to search, evaluate and negotiate to get the best deal possible. Additionally, we discuss real estate laws and practices in Costa Rica, to help you navigate the process with confidence and security. Don’t miss the opportunity to make your dream of owning a home in Costa Rica come true!

The best areas and cities to live in Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers a variety of cities and regions, each with its own unique charm and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a lively urban atmosphere, a quiet mountain town or a relaxing coastal city, Costa Rica has something to offer. Here are some of the best cities to live in Costa Rica.

1. San José and the Central Valley
San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is the cultural and economic heart of the country. It offers a combination of modern amenities, well-developed infrastructure and a rich cultural life.

• Escazú: One of the most prestigious and modern areas, with numerous restaurants, shopping centers, international schools and high-quality hospitals. It is a popular choice among expats.
• Santa Ana: Similar to Escazú, but with a slightly quieter, more residential feel. It offers excellent schools, services and an international community.
  Heredia: Known as the “City of Flowers”, it is a vibrant university city, ideal for those seeking a mix of modernity and tradition.

2. Alajuela
Alajuela is a major city in the Central Valley, known for its pleasant climate and proximity to Juan Santamaría International Airport.

• Atenas: Often cited as one of the cities with the best climate in the world, Atenas is a great choice for those looking for a quiet, relaxed environment with a well-integrated expat community.
• Grecia: With its charming city center and friendly atmosphere, Grecia is ideal for those who want to live close to San José but in a more relaxed environment.

3. Guanacaste
The province of Guanacaste is famous for its spectacular beaches, warm, dry climate and numerous outdoor activities.

• Tamarindo: A vibrant coastal city famous for surfing, nightlife and a dynamic international community. It offers a wide range of restaurants, bars and services.
• Nosara: Known for its zen lifestyle, surfing and yoga, Nosara is perfect for those seeking a healthy and active life in a natural environment.
• Playa Flamingo: One of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, it offers luxurious and peaceful living with an affluent community and high-quality services.

4. Puntarenas
Puntarenas is a long coastal province that stretches along the Pacific coast, offering a variety of coastal cities and resort towns.

• Jacó: One of the most popular destinations for surfing and nightlife, Jacó is perfect for those looking for a mix of adventure and urban convenience.
• Manuel Antonio: Close to the national park of the same name, it offers beautiful beaches and a vibrant tourist community. Ideal for those who love nature and ecotourism.
• Santa Teresa: A laid-back coastal town, famous for surfing, yoga and a bohemian vibe. Perfect for those looking for a peaceful life connected to nature.

5. Lemon
The province of Limón on the Caribbean coast offers a different atmosphere, with Afro-Caribbean influences and lush nature.

• Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: With its beautiful beaches, reggae culture and relaxed atmosphere, it is a favorite destination for those seeking a unique and authentic experience.
• Cahuita: Famous for its national park and quiet beaches, it is ideal for those who love nature and a peaceful life.

6. Mountain areas
Costa Rica’s mountain regions offer a cooler climate and breathtaking scenery.

• Monteverde: Known for its cloud forests and nature reserves, Monteverde is perfect for those seeking an ecotourism environment and an international community.
• San Ramón: A charming city with a pleasant climate, a vibrant arts community and a strategic location near the Central Valley.

Real Estate Options in Costa Rica and Average Budget

Costa Rica’s real estate market is diverse and offers several options to meet the needs and budgets of various types of buyers and renters. From beach houses to luxury villas, from urban apartments to country homes, there is something for everyone. Here is an overview of the main real estate options available and the average budget required for each.

1. Houses and Villas on the Beach

Location: Tamarindo, Nosara, Jacó, Manuel Antonio, Playa Flamingo, Santa Teresa

• Options: Properties range from simple beach houses to luxurious ocean-view villas.
• Average Budget:
  • Beach Homes: $250,000 – $600,000
  • Luxury Villas: $600,000 – $2,500,000+

2. Apartments and Condominiums

Location: San José, Escazú, Santa Ana, Liberia, Tamarindo

• Options: Available in various sizes, from studios to multi-room apartments. Condominiums often offer additional amenities such as swimming pools, gyms and 24/7 security.
• Average Budget:
  • Studio apartments: $70,000 – $150,000
  • 2-3 Bedroom Apartments: $150,000 – $400,000
  • Luxury Condominiums: $400,000 – $1,000,000+

3. City and Suburban Homes

Location: San José, Heredia, Alajuela, Grecia, Atenas

• Options: From single-family homes to villas in residential neighborhoods.
• Average Budget:
  • Single Family Homes: $100,000 – $300,000
  • Luxury Villas and Homes: $300,000 – $1,000,000+

4. Country and Mountain Houses

Location: Monteverde, Arenal, San Ramón, Pérez Zeledón

• Options: Rural properties, farms, mountain homes with large lots.
• Average Budget:
  • Country Homes: $80,000 – $250,000
  • Villas and Luxury Properties: $250,000 – $800,000+

5. Building Land

Location: Guanacaste, Valle Centrale, Zone Montane, Costa Caraibica

• Options: Urban, rural, beachfront and mountain terrain.
• Average Budget:
  • Urban Land: $50,000 – $200,000 (depending on size and location)
  • Rural and Mountain Land: $20,000 – $150,000
  • Beachfront Land: $200,000 – $1,000,000+

6. Commercial Properties

Location: San José, Liberia, Jacó, Tamarindo

• Options: Offices, shops, restaurants, hotels, and other commercial facilities.
• Average Budget:
  • Small Commercial Properties: $100,000 – $500,000
  • Large Properties and Hotels: $500,000 – $5,000,000+

Useful Tips

• Research and Planning: Before making any investment, it is important to do thorough research on the different areas and properties available. Schedule a visit to see the properties in person.
• Partner with Professionals: A good local real estate agent can provide valuable market information and help you find the right property. Also consider consulting a lawyer for legal matters.
• Budget and Financing: Set a realistic budget and consider financing options. Local banks offer mortgages, but it is also possible to get financing from your home country.
• Inspections and Documentation: Make sure all properties are inspected by professionals and that all legal documentation is in order before proceeding with the purchase.