Many foreigners who travel here come specifically with the intent of buying property in Costa Rica. Others travel to Costa Rica on vacation and decide on the spur of the moment to make a financial or lifestyle investment. Whatever your situation, dealing with professionals can simplify the purchase process.
What is the process for making an offer? First, you and your agent will write an offer that suits your circumstances. The offer will be presented to the seller, whether that is a developer or private owner. Either the seller will accept the offer, or negotiations will ensue regarding price, terms or both.
Once buyer and seller have come to an agreement and have signed the contract, a deposit (usually 10%) is expected. The normal time period for receipt of deposit is two weeks, but this time period may be negotiated according to the buyer's circumstances. All funds should be held in a SUGEF or government registered escrow account. It is common for buyers and sellers to use third-party companies such as Stewart Title for escrow purposes.
Final closing would normally be anywhere from 30 - 60 days after both parties agreeing to the terms and signing the contract. If you need to borrow funds, it is normally simpler, and interest rates are usually lower, in your home country. Your best option for financing in Costa Rica is via owner financing, and there are several legal structures in place that can make owner financing safe for both seller and buyer.