What’s the process of finding land in Costa Rica?

This is a fairly straightforward process with a hint of complication.  First and foremost, research and visit the country.  Don’t start the buying process if you’re not sure you want to live there.

Second, once you’ve decided to pursue this direction, find someone you can trust.  Preferably a referral from someone who has already purchased property in the area you’re looking at.

Third, create a budget and stick to it!  Costa Rica is beautiful and intoxicating and it is very easy to get caught up in the romance of living in paradise.  This leads to the, “I’ll take it no matter what.” syndrome.  I can’t tell you how many clients I’ve had that were willing to stretch themselves so far financially that they’d be eating beans and franks for the next 10 years in order to afford their property.  Not a good situation to be in.  Many times I’d simply tell them no and find something more affordable.

Once you have found a piece of property, due diligence is required to confirm that the current owner, actually is the owner.  By law all properties must be registered in Registro Publico. Most properties have a title registration number called the “Folio Real.” Once you have this number you can search the database. The Registro Publico’s Report, called the “Informe Registral,” contains information such as the name of the title holder, boundary lines, tax appraisal, liens, mortgages, recorded easements, and other records that could affect the title.