🏡 Thinking About Moving to Costa Rica? Here’s Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy.

Pura Vida Starts with Smart PlanningCosta Rica’s laid-back lifestyle, warm weather, and stunning natural beauty attract thousands of expats every year. But before you dive headfirst into buying a slice of paradise, there are key things to know to ensure a smooth transition. At Pura Vida Real Estate Tours, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—starting with these must-know insights.

1. Location, Location, Lifestyle

Costa Rica has incredible diversity packed into a small country—beaches, mountains, jungles, and bustling cities. Choosing the right region is crucial:

• Guanacaste: Sunny, dry climate with beautiful beaches—ideal for beach lovers and retirees.

• Central Valley (San José, Escazú, Atenas): Cooler temperatures, developed infrastructure, and access to major hospitals.

• Southern Zone (Dominical, Uvita): Lush jungle meets the coast—perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility.

• Nicoya Peninsula: Home to some of the world’s longest-living people, with a peaceful, rural vibe.

Ask yourself: Do you want walkable beach towns or cooler mountain views? A bustling expat community or local immersion?

2. Understand the Real Estate Market

Foreigners can own property in Costa Rica outright with the same rights as citizens. However, it’s not the same as buying back home. Key points:

• Hire a bilingual, licensed attorney to guide the legal process and verify the title.

• Avoid buying without a real estate tour or on-the-ground inspection. Looks can be deceiving online.

• HOAs and gated communities are common and may offer security and amenities.

• Understand "concession land" vs. titled land, especially in beach areas—this can impact your ownership rights.

That’s where our real estate tours come in. We offer personalized, boots-on-the-ground experiences to explore neighborhoods, meet local professionals, and see properties with your own eyes.

3. Residency: Do You Need It?

You don’t need residency to buy property or visit for extended periods. However, most visitors are allowed 90 days on a tourist visa. If you plan to live full-time:

• Pensionado Residency: For retirees with $1,000/month in income from a pension.

• Rentista Residency: For those with a guaranteed income or savings of $2,500/month or $60,000 in a bank account.

• Investor Residency: If you invest at least $150,000 in Costa Rican property or business.

The good news? Residency is attainable—and we work with experts who can assist.

4. Cost of Living: Affordable, But Not Dirt Cheap

Costa Rica isn’t the cheapest country in Central America, but it offers great value—especially for what you get in quality of life. Expect:

• Groceries: Local produce is affordable; imported goods can be expensive.

• Healthcare: Excellent and affordable, especially private care. Many expats pay out-of-pocket or join public insurance (Caja).

• Utilities: Lower in rural areas, but A/C and internet can add up depending on usage.

• Property taxes: Very low compared to North America—typically 0.25% of assessed value.

  
  

5. Healthcare, Education & Infrastructure

• Costa Rica boasts world-class healthcare, both public and private. Many retirees choose private insurance due to shorter wait times.

• If you have kids, there are international schools across the country, especially in areas with strong expat communities.

• Infrastructure is improving, but road conditions and internet access vary by region.

  
  

6. Culture Shock & Lifestyle Adjustment

Costa Rica offers an incredible lifestyle, but it’s not for everyone. Be ready for:

• Slower pace of life—great for stress relief, but frustrating if you’re used to hustle culture.

• The “mañana” mindset—appointments and deadlines are often flexible.

• Learning Spanish—not mandatory, but hugely helpful and appreciated.

Embracing the Pura Vida lifestyle means going with the flow and finding joy in simplicity.

7. Try Before You Buy: Book a Real Estate Tour

If you’re serious about relocating, the smartest thing you can do is visit, explore, and learn—before making any big decisions.

Our Costa Rica Real Estate Tours are designed for exactly that. We don’t just show you properties—we give you the full picture:

✅ Explore different towns and neighborhoods✅ Meet real estate agents, legal experts, and expats✅ Visit hospitals, markets, schools, and local hotspots✅ Learn the ins and outs of purchasing property safely✅ Decide where you fit in this beautiful country

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Dream It. Experience It.Costa Rica offers an unmatched quality of life—but success starts with information, preparation, and trusted local guidance.

📩 Ready to start your journey? Book a tour with us at PuraVidaRealEstateTours.com and let’s explore your future in paradise together.