Hardy Group Real Estate | May 2026 | Los Sueños Resort & Marina, Costa Rica
⏱ Estimated read time: 10 minutes | Category: Legal Guide & Buyer’s Guide
Introduction
One of the most common questions we hear from North American buyers is: “Can I actually own property in Costa Rica?” The answer is an unequivocal yes — and the legal framework protecting that ownership is more robust than most buyers expect.
Costa Rica is one of the few countries in Latin America that extends full, unrestricted property ownership rights to foreign nationals. You do not need to be a resident. You do not need a local partner. You do not need government approval. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about buying property at Los Sueños as a US citizen or foreign national.
Your Legal Rights as a Foreign Buyer
Costa Rica’s Political Constitution guarantees equal property rights to foreigners and citizens alike. Foreign nationals can own titled, fee-simple real estate in their own name or through a Costa Rican corporation (Sociedad Anónima), recorded in the National Property Registry. Title insurance from major US providers is available, and the system is transparent and well-established.
Note: Los Sueños Resort & Marina properties are titled fee-simple property — not maritime zone concessions — providing buyers with exceptional legal security and 100% foreign ownership rights.
Step 1: Work with a Trusted Local Expert
Costa Rica has no centralized MLS system. Working with an established local agent like Hardy Group gives you access to the full market — including off-market opportunities — and the expertise to evaluate what you’re seeing accurately. Mike Hardy has lived in Los Sueños since 1997 and has personally participated in over 00 million in community sales.
Step 2: Property Search and Due Diligence
Due diligence includes a title search at the National Property Registry, review of any corporate structures, verification of HOA status and fees, confirmation of utility connections and permits, and a physical inspection. At Los Sueños, the resort’s consistent HOA standards and well-maintained infrastructure add an additional layer of comfort.
Step 3: The Purchase Agreement
Transactions typically begin with a Opción de Compra-Venta (purchase and sale agreement) drafted by a Costa Rican Notario Público, outlining price, payment terms, deposit amount, and closing timeline. Deposits are typically 10% of the purchase price, held in escrow with a reputable escrow service.
Step 4: Financing Options
Most international Los Sueños buyers purchase with cash. Some Costa Rican banks offer mortgages to foreign nationals. US home equity lines of credit and international private lenders are also commonly used. Hardy Group can connect buyers with trusted bilingual financing advisors and legal counsel.
Step 5: Closing
Closing is handled by a Notario Público, who drafts the deed of transfer and registers new ownership. Closing costs typically run 3.5%–4.5% of purchase price. Buyers do not need to be physically present — power of attorney to your local attorney is a common and fully accepted practice.
After the Purchase: Property Management
Hardy Group offers comprehensive property management and vacation rental services — from routine maintenance to professional marketing, guest management, and rental income accounting. Owners generate rental income when away while retaining full personal use whenever they choose.
Costa Rica Residency: An Optional Benefit
Property ownership does not automatically confer residency. Costa Rica’s Rentista and Pensionado programs allow qualifying foreign nationals to obtain legal residency, providing access to the public healthcare system and simplified tax status. Hardy Group can connect you with immigration attorneys who specialize in this process.
Conclusion
Buying property at Los Sueños as a foreign national is straightforward, legally secure, and well-supported by a professional ecosystem of attorneys, agents, and advisors who do this every day. Hardy Group has guided hundreds of North American buyers through the process since 2008. Contact us today to begin your journey.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
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Can Americans buy property in Costa Rica?
Yes. Costa Rica’s Political Constitution guarantees equal property ownership rights to foreign nationals and citizens. Americans can purchase titled fee-simple real estate in their own name or through a Costa Rican corporation, with full legal protections in the National Property Registry. No residency, local partner, or government approval is required.
What is the process for buying real estate in Costa Rica?
The process involves five main steps: (1) Property search and selection with a qualified local agent; (2) Title due diligence via the National Property Registry; (3) A formal purchase and sale agreement with 10% escrow deposit; (4) Notarized closing with deed registration; (5) Post-purchase setup including HOA registration and optional property management. The entire process can be completed without the buyer being present through a power of attorney arrangement.
Do foreign nationals have property rights in Costa Rica?
Yes — foreign nationals enjoy the same full property rights as Costa Rican citizens. Ownership is protected by the constitution and enforced through the National Property Registry. Title insurance is available. Costa Rica ranks among the safest countries in Latin America for foreign real estate investment.
What are the closing costs when buying property in Costa Rica?
Closing costs typically range from 3.5% to 4.5% of the purchase price, including transfer tax (approximately 1.5%), documentary stamps, Notario Público fees, and Property Registry registration fees. Hardy Group can provide a detailed closing cost estimate for any property in our portfolio.
Can I get a mortgage to buy property in Costa Rica as a foreigner?
Yes, though most international buyers at Los Sueños purchase with cash. Some Costa Rican banks offer mortgage products to foreign nationals. US home equity lines of credit and international private lenders are also commonly used. Hardy Group can connect buyers with trusted bilingual financing advisors.
Does buying property in Costa Rica give me residency?
Property ownership alone does not grant Costa Rican residency. However, the Pensionado program (qualifying pension income) and Rentista program (qualifying passive income) are popular with North American property buyers. Hardy Group works with immigration attorneys who can guide buyers through residency applications alongside their property purchase.