Closing Costs & Taxes in Costa Rica

What buyers should budget and why it matters.

Typical buyer costs (approx.)

• Legal/notary/escrow: ~1.25%–2.5% • Transfer tax/stamps: ~2.5% • Due diligence (survey/docs): varies • Translation/certifications: case‑by‑case

Ongoing costs

Property tax, luxury tax where applicable, HOA/condo fees, insurance, utilities, maintenance, management.

What drives variance

Deal structure (asset vs. share), property type, condo/HOA docs, financing, and negotiation of who pays what.

Budgeting tip

Plan a working range of 3%–5% of purchase price for closing, then model net income after ongoing costs if you’ll rent.