It seems unwise to most people to buy real estate without seeing it first, but many people have bought Costa Rica real estate without seeing it and later discovered they had been scammed or that the property they bought was undesirable or not as described. Some scams involving Costa Rica real estate are conducted over the internet and other through local ads, but no matter how you hear about property for sale never purchase a Costa Rica real estate investment without first checking out the property in person.
Most vacationers and investors consider Costa Rica a safe place with a stable government and economy. It is true that Costa Rica is a stable country but investors should still carefully approach the purchase of real estate in Costa Rica. Conducting the buying process over a long distance, from the U.S. to Costa Rica, is not a good idea because it opens the door for potential problems. Investors need to make sure that all appropriate titles and documents are in order for their purchase and that the property they are buying is legally for sale and can be built on.
If you want to buy real estate in Costa Rica you need to have the proper title, permits, and deed for the property before you put any money down. The buying process in Costa Rica differs from the U.S. and you will need an experienced real estate agent and attorney to help you negotiate the buying process.
Investors also need to be aware that in many parts of the Costa Rica there are building restrictions that require specific setbacks from property lines, limit the height of homes and buildings, and may restrict other development factors such as tree removal and landscaping. Make sure the real estate you are buying can be developed according to the plan you had in mind.