Buying Secondary Real Estate in Costa Rica: A Complete Guide to the Resale Market

Why Secondary Properties in Costa Rica Are Gaining Popularity

Costa Rica has long been a top destination for expats, retirees, digital nomads, and property investors seeking a blend of tropical beauty, political stability, and strong property rights. While new developments continue to grow, the country's secondary real estate market — resale homes, apartments, condos, and villas — is increasingly attracting buyers looking for location-tested properties, immediate usability, and more favorable prices.

Secondary real estate in Costa Rica typically includes privately owned residences or rental properties that have been previously inhabited or rented. These are available across the Central Valley, coastal zones, and eco-tourism hubs, offering better access to established infrastructure and real community integration. From restored colonial homes in San José to beachfront villas in Tamarindo, resale properties allow buyers to avoid construction delays and evaluate property value in a lived-in context.

Who Buys Secondary Real Estate in Costa Rica?

1. Foreign Retirees and Expats

One of the largest buyer groups in Costa Rica’s secondary market includes North Americans and Europeans seeking permanent or seasonal relocation. Many choose existing homes in gated communities or small towns due to their move-in readiness and lower maintenance costs.

2. Remote Workers and Digital Nomads

Secondary apartments in San José, Escazú, and Santa Ana offer furnished, internet-ready housing at better value than rentals. These buyers often purchase condos or townhouses close to cafes, coworking spaces, and public transportation.

3. Local Costa Rican Families

Middle-class Costa Ricans frequently purchase resale homes as a primary residence, especially in suburbs of Heredia, Alajuela, or Cartago. For them, resale means lower prices, existing infrastructure, and proximity to work and schools.

4. Investors Seeking Short-Term or Long-Term Rental Income

Tourism hotspots such as Jaco, Manuel Antonio, and Nosara have vibrant short-term rental economies. Secondary homes with proven occupancy history are ideal for those seeking reliable income without speculative risk.

5. Eco-conscious Buyers and Renovators

Secondary homes built before modern environmental codes are often renovated into sustainable properties. Buyers favor older homes that can be upgraded with solar panels, rainwater systems, and eco-conscious materials.

Advantages of Buying Resale Property in Costa Rica

1. Immediate Use and Avoidance of Construction Risks

Secondary properties are already built, titled, and usually maintained. Buyers can move in immediately, begin renting, or plan renovations. There are no surprises around project delays, unfinished infrastructure, or licensing issues.

2. Prime Locations with Community Integration

Most resale properties are located in areas with established neighborhoods, services, and social life. Whether it’s a beach town or a central valley suburb, buyers gain access to schools, hospitals, restaurants, and transit from day one.

3. Cost Savings Compared to New Builds

New homes often include developer premiums, modern branding, and speculative pricing. Resale homes — especially those requiring cosmetic upgrades — are more negotiable, and may offer significantly more square footage for the same price.

4. Proven Rental History

Many resale condos or villas come with documented rental income, reviews, and established listings on platforms like Airbnb or Booking. This provides greater predictability for income-seeking investors.

5. Lower Property Taxes and Utility Costs

Older properties in Costa Rica often benefit from grandfathered property tax rates, established municipal services, and no additional fees for gated services or maintenance commonly found in new communities.

Popular Regions for Resale Property in Costa Rica

San José and Central Valley

The urban and suburban areas around San José — including Escazú, Santa Ana, Curridabat, and Rohrmoser — are filled with resale apartments, houses, and villas. Many have private gardens, security, and proximity to international schools and medical centers. Prices range from $100,000 for a two-bedroom apartment to $500,000 for a luxury home.

Guanacaste Coast (Tamarindo, Flamingo, Playas del Coco)

This region is a favorite for beachfront properties and rental investments. Resale condos with pools and ocean views are common, ranging from $150,000 to $600,000. Villas and homes in gated communities also dominate the market.

Nicoya Peninsula (Nosara, Santa Teresa, Montezuma)

Eco-tourism and yoga culture attract buyers to this region. Resale homes here include rustic villas, bungalows, and eco-compounds priced between $200,000 and $700,000, often with large lots and jungle views.

Jaco and Central Pacific

Jaco is one of the most accessible beach towns from San José. It offers a large inventory of resale apartments and townhouses, many in beach-adjacent towers or gated communities. These are popular among both locals and expats.

Southern Zone (Dominical, Uvita, Ojochal)

Known for its dramatic landscapes and tranquil lifestyle, this area features resale homes on hillsides with panoramic ocean views. Prices vary widely depending on location and access, from $180,000 to over $1 million.

Legal Aspects of Buying Resale Property in Costa Rica

1. Foreign Ownership Rights

Costa Rica allows 100% foreign ownership of property with the same rights as citizens, including resale homes. No residency or special permits are needed to buy titled land or structures, except in concession areas along the maritime zone (first 200 meters from shore).

2. Due Diligence and Title Verification

Buyers must work with a Costa Rican attorney (notary public) to conduct due diligence. This includes verifying that the property is correctly registered in the National Property Registry (Registro Nacional), is debt-free, and has no liens or co-ownership conflicts.

3. Escrow and Purchase Process

The typical resale purchase involves a reservation agreement, then a purchase-sale agreement with a 10% deposit into a secure escrow account. Closing usually takes 30–60 days and is finalized at the notary’s office.

4. Transfer Taxes and Closing Costs

• Transfer tax: 1.5% of the property’s declared value
• Legal and notary fees: 1–2%
• Municipal stamp duty and registration: approximately 0.5%

Total closing costs average between 2.5%–4% of the purchase price.

5. Home Inspections and Technical Checks

It is strongly advised to conduct a home inspection, especially for older properties. Check for water damage, outdated wiring, septic systems, and boundary issues. Many resale homes were built under older codes and require modernization.

Challenges and Considerations When Buying Secondary Real Estate

1. Condition of the Property

Some resale homes, especially in rural or coastal zones, suffer from deferred maintenance or need significant upgrades. Repairs should be factored into the overall investment.

2. Access and Infrastructure

Even desirable resale homes may lack paved access roads or high-speed internet, especially in mountainous or beachfront areas. Buyers must evaluate utility availability carefully.

3. Zoning and Land Use Restrictions

Ensure the property is zoned for your intended use. Some properties are located in agricultural zones (uso agrícola) or protected areas that restrict development or rentals.

4. Negotiating with Individual Sellers

Resale homes are often sold by individual owners, not developers or agencies. Negotiations can be informal and vary in professionalism. Legal guidance is essential for fair and enforceable agreements.

5. Price Transparency

There is no MLS system in Costa Rica. Property pricing is inconsistent, and resale homes may be listed at inflated prices for foreign buyers. Working with trusted professionals ensures market-aligned valuation.

How VelesClub Int. Supports Buyers in the Resale Market

VelesClub Int. offers tailored support for clients purchasing secondary real estate in Costa Rica:

• Access to verified resale listings across all key regions
• Legal due diligence and contract negotiation in English or Spanish
• Escrow handling and certified notary services
• Property inspection and renovation consulting
• Assistance with rental licensing and property management

Conclusion: Costa Rica’s Resale Properties Offer Value, Location, and Legal Security

The secondary real estate market in Costa Rica combines location, affordability, and flexibility. Whether you’re seeking a tropical retirement home, a rental income property, or a base for remote work, resale properties offer move-in readiness and legal clarity in a stable, investor-friendly country.

With support from VelesClub Int., buyers can navigate property search, legal review, and purchase execution with complete transparency. Explore the most desirable regions of Costa Rica through the resale lens — and take your next step in paradise with confidence.