How to Sell Your Home in Costa Rica: What Foreign Sellers MUST Know before you sell!
- 3winsmediaseo
- Jun 22
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 1
Thinking about selling your home in Costa Rica?
Whether it’s a luxury villa, an ocean-view condo, or a rental property you’ve outgrown, the process of selling real estate here is very different.
from what many foreigners are used to.
From legal paperwork to pricing strategies, working with the right team is key to a smooth, profitable sale. In this post, I’ll walk you through what every foreign seller needs to know—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
1. Work with a Licensed, Local Realtor
Costa Rica’s real estate market is not as regulated as in the U.S. or Canada. There’s no national licensing requirement—but that doesn’t mean you should go it alone.
Why it matters:
A CRGAR affiliated agent ensures ethical standards and legal
All CRGAR members are legal residents of Costa Rica and recognized as authorized to work legally in the real estate industry
Experienced agents know how to navigate foreign ownership laws
They’ll help you prep your property, determine the right price, and market it correctly
A knowledgeable agent will keep your sale compliant with MLS rules, SUGEF, and Hacienda reporting
Tip: Ask if your agent is a member of the Omni MLS—this guarantees access to qualified buyers and data-backed market analysis.
2. Set the Right Price & Prep the Property
Costa Rica is a second-home and investment market, which means pricing is often driven by market perception and rental potential, not just comparables.
Key pricing tips:
Don’t rely on what your neighbor sold for—get a local market analysis
Consider ROI if it's a vacation rental (especially for buyers seeking investment income)
Be realistic: homes here often take longer to sell than in fast-paced markets like the U.S.
Home prep checklist:
Fix minor repairs (peeling paint, broken lights, AC tune-ups)
Declutter and professionally clean
Invest in updated listing photos, drone footage, or even a walkthrough video, Your Realtor should provide this as part of their listing packet
Stage the home lightly—especially in luxury markets
3. Understand the Legal Side (Yes, It’s Different Here)
Selling property in Costa Rica as a foreigner involves unique paperwork and legal steps. It’s important to work with an experienced attorney who speaks your language and understands both Costa Rican property law and international transactions.
Legal essentials include:
Making sure your property is correctly titled (fee simple vs concession)
Having corporate documents in order if your home is owned through a Costa Rican company
Reviewing your capital gains and luxury tax liability
Providing recent property surveys and municipal permits
Tip: Capital gains tax in Costa Rica is 15% on profit—unless you qualify for an exemption as a primary residence. This can get tricky, so always consult a trusted legal team.
4. Market to International Buyers
Most buyers in Guanacaste and along Costa Rica’s coasts are foreigners—and they’re shopping online. Your property needs to shine across multiple platforms, from the MLS to social media.
Smart marketing includes:
Listing your home on Omni MLS (Costa Rica’s only national, Realtor-backed MLS)
Using a U.S.-style marketing strategy: high-end photography, video, drone, floor plans
Featuring your property on international portals like Realtor.com International or affiliates in the U.S. and Canada
Reaching buyers through email campaigns, relocation groups, and digital ads targeting expats.
Fact: A home with professional video and drone marketing sells faster and for more money. Don’t settle for blurry iPhone pics.
5. Why the MLS Matters More Than You Think
Unlike many countries, Costa Rica does not have a centralized government-regulated MLS—which makes Omni MLS (powered by CRGAR) the gold standard for exposure, accuracy, and professionalism.
Why list on the MLS?
More visibility to qualified, vetted buyers
Promotes cross-agency cooperation (more Realtors can bring buyers)
Omni MLS is shared with all of Latin America and over 10 of the largest MLS in the US
Omni MLS exposes your property to the most potential buyers
Enforces data accuracy and listing integrity
Ensures your property is presented professionally, with up-to-date info
Bonus: Properties on Omni MLS appear more legitimate and trustworthy to international buyers who are skeptical about unregulated agents.
Ready to List Your Property in Costa Rica?
Whether you’re selling an investment property, vacation home, or full-time residence, having a local, ethical, and data-driven Realtor by your side makes all the difference.
I’ve helped dozens of foreign sellers navigate the process, maximize their sale, and move on with confidence—and I’d love to help you too.
👉 Schedule a no-obligation seller strategy call today.
Want to know your Homes Value? Click "Learn More" and lets get in touch!
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