Buyer Services

How to Buy Property in Costa Rica: The Complete Guide for Foreign Buyers (2026)

Guanacaste specialists since 2013 — trusted by hundreds of US, Canadian, European and Latin American buyers

Everything international buyers need to know — the step-by-step legal process, full closing cost breakdown, taxes, financing options, 1031 exchanges, self-directed retirement accounts, and answers to the most important buyer questions. Written by KRAIN's team of Guanacaste real estate specialists, who have guided international buyers through the Costa Rica purchase process since 2013.

Our cadre of top professionals has spent the last decade working exclusively with American, Canadian, and European buyers, assisting all in their search for prime properties throughout the country.  The relocation process can be extremely complex  -- vastly different from more traditional moves.  Thus, we are here every step of the way to advise on where to live based on ease of access (i.e., near airports, major roads, etc.), desired amenities, any needs for essential services, highly coveted beaches, city size, availability of private schools, and quality medical care.

 

Our Relocation Department coordinator, Gloriella Chaverri, has been an integral part of KRAIN for more than seven years, working directly with referral and relocation partners, individual clients, and outside human resource departments to successfully move individuals and families throughout Costa Rica. She is well-equipped in matching clients with the right KRAIN real estate agents or referral partners, helping individuals achieve their lifestyle and location goals.

 

Our real estate agents are local experts who have chosen to live, work, and put down roots here. We will listen to your needs and be there with you every step of the way as you explore the beautiful and distinctive areas that make Costa Rica so globally renowned.  We will also introduce you to a variety of professionals who may be helpful to you throughout the homebuying process  -- including legal experts, accountants, home inspectors, and medical professionals  -- and we will be sure to show you where all of the fun, local hotspots and amenities are located, from the best restaurants and surf spots, to grocery stores, hair salons and shopping boutiques.

 

And our relocation support doesn’t stop there. Through our Property Management department, our team of dedicated professionals is well-versed in giving clients the assurance they need by providing asset protection, bill pay services, accounting and tax services, turnkey management solutions, and beyond, offering the best possible chances of success as you begin your new chapter here in Costa Rica.

 

Click here to read more about KRAIN’s Property Management services.

KRAIN is a proud member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE), Luxury Portfolio International® (LPI), and Mayfair International Realty, a trio of elite, ultra-luxe real estate networks with affiliate brokerages that span the globe. Real estate professionals within these exclusive, invitation-only organizations are recognized as the most sought-after industry leaders well-known for marketing the finest and most distinct luxury properties worldwide, and lauded for their commitment to high performance, professionalism, and quality service.

It's more than just moving houses…it’s relocating your life. We can help make your change of countries a seamless transition by providing the following:

 

  • A thorough explanation of the transactional process as it relates to purchasing real estate in Costa Rica
  • Important real estate market trends
  • Comparative market analysis
  • Real estate and location tours
  • Negotiations throughout the home-buying process 
  • A preferred list of vendors (attorneys, escrow companies, home inspectors, insurance agents, property managers, movers/shippers, architects, and builders)
  • Local community information
  • Residency laws
  • Private school comparisons
  • Pre-arrival consultations via phone/video conference
  • Employment and healthcare resources
  • References for childcare
  • Monitoring and follow-up on home-finding trips
  • Community familiarization, including shopping facilities
  • Explanation of public transportation systems

Get in Touch with Us

Angel Liwanag
Relocation Coordinator

Work With Us

The KRAIN team not only assists clients in purchasing homes in Costa Rica but also helps with anything their clients need to ensure a peaceful transition into Costa Rican life.

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