Closing Costs in Costa Rica: The Real Numbers

Closing costs in Costa Rica are refreshingly predictable — if you know what they are made of. Budget roughly 3.5–4% of the purchase price on top of the land itself (with escrow and small fixed items, all-in can approach 4.5% on smaller deals). Here is where that number comes from, using the same file we hand buyers at Aldea del Sol.

The components

• Transfer tax — 1.5% of the price, plus registry and documentary stamps of about 0.85% (together roughly 2.35%). Paid on registration of the transfer.
• Notary fees — about 1.25%, plus 13% VAT on the fee. In Costa Rica the notary is a specially licensed attorney who drafts and registers the transfer deed; the fee scale is regulated.
• Corporate items: at Aldea del Sol the purchase is structured through a Costa Rican corporation formed for you, so the statement includes shareholder minutes authorizing the purchase, shareholder registration, and the D-140 tax registration. Small fixed costs, but they belong on the statement — and at the end of them you own the company that owns your lot.
• Escrow: a licensed escrow agent typically charges a few hundred dollars — money well spent, since it is what keeps your deposit safe during due diligence.

After you own it: the ongoing numbers

• Annual property tax: 0.25% of registered value — among the lowest in the region.
• Municipal fees for services vary by canton and are modest for raw land.
• HOA in a private community: get the figure in writing before you commit. In a 27-lot community the cost of roads, water and security is shared among 27 owners — ask exactly what it covers.

The rule

Before you sign anything, your lawyer should give you a written closing statement listing every line above with actual figures for your purchase. If a seller resists putting the numbers in writing, that is your answer about the seller.