Buying property in Costa Rica comes with a perk—property tax on "Fee Simple Title" properties is just 0.25% of the fiscal value recorded with the local municipality and national property register. These taxes help fund local municipalities, unlike in some countries where the national government collects them.
The capital gains tax in Spanish is called “Ganancias de Capital.” It was bound to happen! Capital gains tax is now a reality in Costa Rica and has been in effect since July 2019. What’s the rate? Well, the capital gains rate is fifteen percent (15%) of the gain. Being a home owner in Costa Rica, it is important for you to know how this tax can affect your personal tax situation.
You fell in love with Costa Rica and after looking at all the built homes in the area you decided that you want to buy a lot and build. If you haven’t built a house from scratch before than this guide will be quite useful. Even If you have built a home in the past this will help you avoid pitfalls particular to Costa Rica and keep you on the right track.
Before we go any further, we must assume that you have hired an experienced realtor who will ensure the basics are covered that apply to any lot purchase:
Let us state right up front: we're not saying "don't build a home in Costa Rica". We're just showing you all the options, including the best way to build a custom home from scratch.
Most Buyers and Sellers in the coastal regions of Costa Rica are not native to the area so it seems like common sense that they would seek out advice from a seasoned and professional Agent. One that works in a well-established agency to guide them through the purchase or sale process of a property in a foreign county. I think we would all agree with that statement so far.
99. Costa Rica is 99% green. It is almost totally carbon free, and the most environmentally protective country in the world and most of it still looks like it did when the dinosaurs walked the earth. You have to love and respect somewhere, which places nature above money. This haven will blow you away.
There is no doubt the real estate market has been doing very well in the Papagayo area of Costa Rica and many of our agents have had record breaking years. What is even more impressive is the leadership that our agents have shown by not only being involved in their communities, but getting involved and giving back in a big way.
