Get the legal side right when you buy in Costa Rica
Title searches, escrow, corporate vehicles, residency — the work that protects a purchase. TicaLuxury introduces you to legal counsel we've vetted, so you don't have to gamble on a referral.
TicaLuxury partners with PBP — a Costa Rica boutique firm backed by regional powerhouse BLP Legal. Read about the partnership.
Due diligence & title
Folio search, encumbrances, zoning, water and access rights — verified before you commit.
Closings & escrow
Notary-led deed transfer. Escrow coordinated with an independent SUGEF-registered fiduciary.
Residency
Investor and rentista pathways, documentation, and immigration filings.
Corporate & tax
S.A. or S.R.L. setup, holding structures, and tax filings for non-resident owners.
How it works
- 1Tell us what you're working on — a property under offer, residency planning, or general questions.
- 2A TicaLuxury advocate makes the introduction and stays in the loop.
- 3Counsel sends a scope and quote directly; you choose whether to proceed.
No charge for the introduction. You only engage counsel if and when you decide to.
Request an introduction
Share a few details and a TicaLuxury advocate will follow up within one business day.
Common questions about buying property in Costa Rica
Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Costa Rica?+
Yes. Costa Rica requires a notary public (a specialized attorney) to execute the deed transfer and register it at the Public Registry. A lawyer also handles title due diligence, contract review, and corporate or escrow structures that protect your purchase.
Can foreigners own property in Costa Rica?+
Yes. Foreigners can own property in Costa Rica with the same rights as Costa Rican citizens, including titled fee-simple ownership. The only restriction is on the first 50 meters of beachfront (maritime zone) and concession lands in the next 150 meters, which have specific rules.
What is escrow and is it required?+
Escrow is a regulated holding account where the buyer's funds sit until closing conditions are met. In Costa Rica it must be operated by a SUGEF-registered fiduciary — a separate, licensed entity from your law firm. While not legally required, escrow is standard practice for luxury transactions because it satisfies anti-money-laundering rules and protects both parties. Our legal partner doesn't run escrow themselves; they coordinate with an independent fiduciary on your behalf.
How long does a property closing take in Costa Rica?+
A typical closing runs 30 to 60 days from accepted offer, depending on financing, due diligence findings, and how quickly funds clear escrow. Cash purchases with clean title can close in as little as 2–3 weeks.
What are the typical closing costs?+
Closing costs in Costa Rica usually total around 3.6%–4.5% of the purchase price, covering transfer tax (1.5%), registration stamps (~0.8%), and notary/legal fees (~1.25%–2%). These are commonly split between buyer and seller by negotiation.
Can the same legal team help with residency?+
Yes. Investor and rentista residency pathways are commonly bundled with a property purchase. Our partner files the application, prepares the apostilled documentation, and coordinates with Costa Rica's immigration authority (DGME).