Let’s Get Real About Real Estate in Paradise

If you’ve been thinking about buying or selling property in Costa Rica, you’ve probably already realized that picking the right real estate agent is kind of a big deal. But here’s the kicker—not every person calling themselves an “agent” is actually licensed, registered, or, frankly, even legal. Welcome to the wild, wonderful world of Costa Rica real estate.

So, Are Real Estate Agents Licensed?

Yes… and no. Costa Rica does offer licensing for real estate agents—but here’s the twist—it’s not required by law. At least not as of the date of this blog. That’s right, you can legally call yourself a real estate agent here without ever taking a course or passing an exam. A little unnerving? You bet. But that’s where the pros separate themselves from the posers.

What About Regulation?

While there’s no government-mandated license (yet), the industry isn’t running totally wild. Enter SUGEF (website in Spanish)—the financial regulatory authority that oversees banking and financial transactions in Costa Rica. As of recently, every real estate agent and property manager handling money (that includes commissions and third-party funds) must be registered with SUGEF. And this isn’t just a rubber stamp. Here’s what they check:

• You must be a legal permanent resident or a citizen of Costa Rica
• You need a background check by the OIJ in Costa Rica and the FBI in the U.S.
• Your bank accounts will be monitored for compliance

If you’re not registered and try to accept money? Your bank shuts down your account faster than you can say “Pura Vida.”

The Industry Steps Up

Luckily, the real pros didn’t sit around waiting for the government to figure it out. Years ago, top agents formed two professional associations:

• CRGAR – Costa Rica Global Association of Realtors
• CCCBR – Costa Rican Chamber of Real Estate Agents

Both organizations follow high standards—think of them as Costa Rica’s version of the U.S. NAR (National Association of Realtors). They offer training, enforce ethical practices, and yes, push the government to make real estate licensing mandatory. Fingers crossed for the next couple of years.

Don’t Get Fooled: Ask These 4 Questions

Until the laws catch up, it’s up to you, the buyer or seller, to do a little digging. And trust me, it’s worth it. Ask your agent these four questions—if the answers don’t sit right, move on.

1. Are you a legal permanent resident or citizen of Costa Rica?
   No? That’s a red flag. Ask to see their cédula. If they’re not legally allowed to work here, they probably don’t plan to stick around long enough to support you after the sale.
2. Are you licensed with CRGAR or CCCBR?
   No training, no professional ethics, no deal. You want someone who treats this as a career—not a side hustle to fund sunset cocktails.
3. Do you own property in Costa Rica?
   If your agent rents and doesn’t own anything, how much can they really know about investing here? Show me the title, or show me the door.
4. Are you registered with SUGEF?
   This one is non-negotiable. If they’re not on the SUGEF books, they’re operating in the shadows. That’s not who you want holding your deposit.

Why Tres Amigos Realty Group Checks Every Box

At Tres Amigos Realty Group, we don’t just talk the talk. Every one of our agents is:

• A legal permanent resident or citizen
• Licensed through CRGAR or CCCBR
• A property owner here in Costa Rica
• Fully registered with SUGEF

We live here. We work here. We own property here. This isn’t just a job—it’s home. And we’re here to help you find your place in paradise, safely and confidently.

Ready to Get Started?

We’d love to hear from you. It doesn;t matter if you’re just browsing or ready to buy, we’re always happy to share what we know, answer your questions, and help you connect with the real Costa Rica. Drop us a line—flip-flops are optional, good vibes guaranteed.