Selling a property is not just posting an ad

Posting the ad is the easy part. A legally safe property sale in Costa Rica requires, in general terms, verifying the property's legal status before signing.

The title study includes obtaining the property's literal certification from the Public Registry: area, boundaries, registered owner and — most importantly — liens: mortgages, easements, seizures or annotations affecting free disposition.

It also involves reviewing the cadastral plan and ensuring its information matches the registry, as well as the municipal situation: local taxes and charges current.

In Costa Rica, real estate sales must be granted as a public deed before a notary to be valid and recordable. The notary ensures the parties' capacity and the act's legitimacy, drafts the deed, and the transfer is then recorded with the Public Registry.

If you are a foreigner, don't worry about the language: the deed is drafted in Spanish, but we can provide a supporting translation so you understand every clause before signing. This guide is general information and does not replace legal advice for your specific case.