Question 1

Do I have to physically be in Costa Rica to purchase property?

Accepted Answer

No. Many of the people Mark works with conduct their entire property search, including
making an offer and closing on a deal without ever setting foot in the country. Mark and
his team are set up to be your ‘eyes and ears on the ground’ when it comes to Costa
Rica properties. We can help you narrow down your property search and take photos
videos, and even live streaming property walkthroughs so you can get all of your
important research done without ever getting on a plane! Many of Mark’s clients do like
to come visit at some point during their search but it's not a requirement, and we can
accommodate you either way.

Question 2

How do you get residency in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

To become a resident in Costa Rica, applicants must meet specific requirements which vary depending on the type of residency sought. Common categories include pensionado (for retirees), rentista (for those with income from abroad), and inversionista (for investors). Generally, applicants need to show a clean criminal record, provide proof of stable income or investment, and undergo medical examinations. Detailed instructions on the residency application process, including required documents and procedures, can be found in our free Costa Rica Playbook eBook, particularly on page 32.

Question 3

What are taxes like in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

In terms of Income tax the top tax brackets will be paying around 30% for personal and business's. Also, generally speaking, tax write offs are more liberal in Costa Rica than many other countries. As just one example, meals are 100% deductible as a business expense.

Property Taxes are cheap. Taxes will vary by location but in the Southern Pacific area we’re talking about $900 per year on a $600,000 home.

A complete in-depth breakdown on taxes is available in our free Ebook, Costa Rica Playbook on pages 25 and 35

Question 4

Is Costa Rica safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Other sources online will verify that Costa Rica is known as the safest country in Central America. There is petty crime here, just like almost everywhere else. I tell people, just be smart about it. You wouldn’t leave your wallet and phone sitting out in the open inside your car at home, right? Don’t do that here either.

Question 5

Can you work in Costa Rica as a foreigner?

Accepted Answer

Technically, to get a job here you need your residency, but Costa Rica is a huge place for entrepreneurs and self employed people. WiFi is everywhere here. If your business is location-independent, you can work from home or in cafes and restaurants. I have friends who run agencies and business consultancies from down here.

Question 6

Can you own a home as a foreigner in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Costa Rica is friendly to foreign investment whether you are purchasing a property to live in, or to use as an income-producing rental. In addition, Costa Rica has a range of progressive options relating to securing residency should you wish to relocate here. The Costa Rica Playbook elaborates on these options in further detail.

Question 7

Is Mark Savoia a Costa Rica relocation expert?

Accepted Answer

Mark provides many of the same services as relocation experts at no charge to his
clients. People who contact Mark are interested in getting inside guidance and expertise
on buying real estate in Costa Rica. Mark is an experienced former contractor and real
estate agent who has been coming to Costa Rica for over ten years and living here full
time for the past four years. He is a North American ex-pat who has been through the
relocation experience first-hand and helped thousands of others from around the world
do the same.

Question 8

Is Costa Rica welcoming to foreigners?

Accepted Answer

Yes. At the national government level, Costa Rica is welcoming to tourists and
immigrants from around the world. From their progressive digital nomad visa to flexible
and progressive immigration categories. At the local cultural level, throughout Costa
Rica you will find local people generally friendly and welcoming, particularly if you take
the time to get to know them and their culture.

Question 9

Do foreigners have to purchase a property before they can move to Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

You can, but you don’t have to. Costa Rica offers a choice of immigration options, some
whereby you purchase property and others where you can rent.

Question 10

How affordable are properties in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Costa Rica is unique in that it is a desirable tropical destination with a full range of real
estate opportunities. We can help you narrow down your search whether your budget is
$400,000, $4 million, or more – and everything in between. There are even lots
available for $100,000 in certain areas. It’s all dependent an your goals and desires.
Mark and his team are set up to help you find the perfect property for you in this tropical
paradise.

Question 11

Are there reputable property management companies that cater to expats in
Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Yes, several reputable property management companies cater to expats in Costa Rica,
offering services such as property maintenance, rental management, and tenant
interactions. We can provide recommendations.

Question 12

What’s so special about real estate in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Costa Rica enjoys one of the world’s best year-round climates with abundant sunshine and warm weather. It offers a unique blend of developed urban areas and undisturbed natural surroundings, including tropical beaches, waterfalls, jungles, and bamboo forests. The real estate market is diverse, with options ranging from beachfront properties to secluded mountain homes, all within a short drive of essential amenities.

Question 13

Is Costa Rica hot?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Costa Rica is a hot climate, however, the temperatures fluctuate depending on
your elevation. As you ascend mountain roads, where many homes are built, not only
are the views spectacular, but the air can be much cooler depending on how high you
go.

#1 Expert on Maximizing Wealth with Real Estate Investing in Costa Rica

Frequently Asked Questions about Investing in Costa Rica