Get access to the best Costa Rica retirement homes for sale by working with Finish Touch Enterprises, the top Costa Rica construction company.
We’ve been helping American ex-pats to create the home of their dreams for decades, and now we’re ready to help you build your own coastal oasis in paradise.
Why Costa Rica Is a Top Retirement Destination (2025 Overview)
Costa Rica has become one of the world’s most desired retirement destinations—not just for its peaceful lifestyle, but for its stability, climate, and affordability. With excellent healthcare, friendly communities, and a large U.S. expat population, it offers a lifestyle that feels both familiar and adventurous.
Retirees enjoy warm weather year-round, low property taxes, strong property rights, and the freedom to live a slow, nature-centered life without sacrificing comfort. The country continues to attract Americans seeking a safe, stable, and enjoyable place to call home.
Why Retirement Homes in Costa Rica Offer Great Value
Compared to the U.S., Costa Rica provides a lower cost of living, affordable construction options, and long-term property appreciation. A retirement home here becomes more than an escape—it’s a strategic investment.
Many retirees choose to build rather than buy resale homes because custom builds offer:
- Modern layouts for aging comfortably
- Energy-efficient design
- Better ventilation for tropical climates
- High-quality materials
- Low long-term maintenance
Finish Touch Enterprises specializes in designing coastal retirement homes tailored to mature lifestyles, mobility needs, and expat preferences.
Costa Rica retirement homes for sale: Frequently asked questions
Before we go into the actual models we have to offers you, let’s go ahead and answer a few questions you might have about acquiring Costa Rica real estate and moving into the country.
Can a US citizen buy Costa Rica real estate?
Yes, as an American citizen you definitely have the right to acquire Costa Rica homes for sale.
And, what’s great about this is that you just need your tourist visa and your passport.
Now, when it comes to actually put any piece of local property under your name, we actually recommend you to use a corporation, where you can act as president.
The reason for this is that buying Costa Rica retirement homes for sale under a corporation simply gives you access to a number of tools that wouldn’t be available to you otherwise.
Coastal Concession property
It’s also important to mention that when you acquire coastal land for sale in Costa Rica to build the ex-pat home of your dreams, you are acquiring such land under the concession figure.
This means that you are long-term leasing the land where you are building your property.
With that said, EVERY SINGLE EX-PAT that has acquired Costa Rica retirement homes for sale on the coast have done it this way for decades.
And all you really need to do at the end of the lease period, which can go from 5 to 20 years, is simply to renovate it.
And, when it comes to re-selling coastal property in Costa Rica, you won’t have any problems doing so at any time you want.
It’s basically YOUR property but granted under concession because it’s too close to the actual public access beaches.
Now, let’s make something clear: this is just for the first 200 meters measured horizontally from the high tide line.
Any coastal land for sale in Costa Rica that goes beyond that, you can actually own without the need of the maritime concession.
The Retirement Home Building Process (Step-by-Step)
Building a retirement home in Costa Rica becomes simple when each step is handled by an experienced team. Our process includes:
- Initial Consultation – We understand your needs, lifestyle goals, and preferred location.
- Land Evaluation – We assess slope, access, utilities, and concession requirements if coastal.
- Custom Design or Model Selection – Choose from our retirement-friendly layouts or customize your own.
- Permit Management – We handle municipal and environmental approvals.
- Construction Phase – Our in-house crew, equipment, and imported materials ensure efficiency.
- Finishing & Quality Control – Interior design, accessibility features, and final inspections.
- Handover – Your coastal retirement home is ready to live in or rent out.
This is the simplest, safest way for expats to build long-term homes in Costa Rica.
Should I invest in Costa Rica real estate?
Yes! there are a number of excellent reasons why you would like to give the local Costa Rica real estate market a try.
And, what’s great about investment in Costa Rica property is that this is a very straightforward process.
In fact, if you already have acquired real estate in the United States, then the process is very similar. So, everything will be very similar for you.
Is now a good time to invest in Costa Rica real estate?
Yes! This is the perfect moment so that you can buy Costa Rica retirement homes for sale.
And the reason is that the North American real estate market is currently with outstanding greenlighted figures.
So, it’s truly advisable to sell back home, and then take your earnings and invest a portion of your profits into building a home in Costa Rica, fully customized to your needs and WANTS.
This is of course with the help of Finish Touch Enterprises; the best Costa Rica construction professionals.
Is it cheap to live in Costa Rica?
When you compare living in the United States with the cost of living in Costa Rica, then yes.
Costa Rica is not just a beautiful country; but it’s also affordable enough so that you can experience a great lifestyle, filled with the stuff you love, for about $2,000 per month.
And this even includes any mortgage payments you need to make for your home.
Do ex-pats pay taxes in Costa Rica?
What’s important about this question is the fact that all American citizens, as taxpayers, get taxed on their global income.
With that said, you can acquire Costa Rica investment property while getting some outstanding tax deals at the same time.
And, as this is a country that enjoys a great deal of political stability, this makes investing in Costa Rica retirement homes for sale an even better idea.
With that said, if you want to buy Costa Rica new homes, it’s never a bad idea to know a little bit about United States tax laws vs Costa Rica tax laws.
Now, apart from any taxes, what can be said about the Costa Rica real estate market without a doubt is that it will always generate positive cash flow.
And, let’s also consider the fact that although investing in Costa Rica real estate is very similar to investing in United States real estate, there are a few things that you are not able to do with the offshore property.
Is Costa Rica still a good place to retire?
Yes indeed! In fact, Costa Rica is one of the best places in the world right now to move into.
First, because if you’re thinking about Costa Rica retirement homes for sale, you will enjoy a lot of tax privileges.
And second, and most importantly, because this is a very safe country that offers a great deal of political stability.
In fact, Costa Rica is one of the oldest democracies on the globe.
So, needless to say, peace is definitely a top feature when considering this country as a new place to call home.
How much money do I need to retire comfortably in Costa Rica?
Most expats live comfortably on $1,800–$2,500/month, depending on region and amenities.
Do retirees get residency benefits?
Yes. The Pensionado Program gives retirees residency with only $1,000/month pension income.
Can I bring pets when moving to Costa Rica?
Yes. Costa Rica allows pet entry with proper vaccination records and certificates.
Are healthcare services good for retirees?
Costa Rica has high-quality private hospitals and clinics at a fraction of U.S. costs.
Can a retirement home be rented out when I travel?
Absolutely. Many retirees rent their homes during summer months or long trips.
Do retirement homes in Costa Rica appreciate in value?
Yes. Coastal and expat-preferred regions have consistent long-term appreciation.
Is it safe for retirees to live alone in Costa Rica?
Most retiree communities are extremely safe, peaceful, and welcoming.
Best Regions to Retire in Costa Rica
Retirement looks different depending on your lifestyle. These regions are most popular with U.S. retirees:
Central Southern Pacific (Uvita, Ojochal, Dominical)
Quiet, scenic, and home to a strong expat community. Great for nature lovers.
Guanacaste (Playas del Coco, Tamarindo, Flamingo)
Warm weather, modern services, and excellent hospitals. Perfect for active retirees.
Central Valley (Atenas, Grecia, Heredia)
Cooler climate, stable infrastructure, and access to international clinics.
🏞️ Lake Arenal Region
Peaceful with mountain views—ideal for retirees who prefer cooler temperatures.
These areas balance affordability, safety, and comfort—key retirement priorities.
Geography
Costa Rica is a tropical jewel, located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
This is a country rich in natural diversity. You will soon find yourself surrounded by a large variety of beautiful mountains, valleys, rivers, plains, and volcanoes.
This, in a habitat that goes from tropical dry forest to lowland rainforest.
When in Rome…
Of course, if you really want to get the best out of your new experience as owner of Costa Rica retirement homes for sale, you should consider taking the time to learn the local customs, the culture, and the language.
It’s also important to understand a little bit about how the local economy works; so that you can take advantage of all available opportunities.
What is required to move to Costa Rica?
If you wish to move to Costa Rica, there are actually two excellent plans that you can have access to:
- Rentista Program: To apply for this program, you must report a monthly income of $2,500 for a period that runs for 2 years. But, if you can make a deposit of $60,000 into a local bank account, then you can save yourself the waiting time.
- Pensionado Program: This is the easiest of the two because all you need to report is a $1,000 monthly income coming from a pension source. That’s it!
What is the Traspaso or Escritura?
When you hear or see the terms “traspaso” or “escritura” this is simply referring to the title change of property.
So, this is basically the document that states that you own Costa Rica retirement homes for sale.
How is the property title transferred?
If you wish to buy land for sale in Costa Rica to then build Costa Rica retirement homes for sale, you will need the assistance of a public notary.
Luckily for you, all lawyers in Costa Rica are public notaries. So finding the right individual won’t be a problem.
Here at Finish Touch Enterprises, we count on our own legal department to help you with the legal aspects linked to owning Costa Rica homes for sale.
But of course, you’re always welcome to hire your own lawyers; and then we can all work together to get the property registered under your name trouble-free.
Now, here’s how the process goes:
First, the public notary will create the draft for the Escritura or title change of property.
Once all the parts are satisfied with the drafted document, the latter must be taken to the Public Registry or Registro Publico.
If you’re just in the process of acquiring Costa Rica land for sale, at the Public Registry you can also verify all records for the property itself.
When everything has been verified and cleared by the Public Registry, then you will become the new owner. Congratulations!
Cost Expectations for Retirement Homes in Costa Rica
Retirement home costs vary depending on location, design, and terrain, but general ranges include:
- $180,000–$300,000 for compact retirement-friendly homes
- $300,000–$450,000 for mid-size coastal homes
- $450,000+ for ocean-view or luxury homes
Because Finish Touch Enterprises uses in-house crews and direct imports, pricing stays more competitive than market averages.
What Makes a Great Retirement Home in Costa Rica?
A retirement home should be easy to live in, comfortable, efficient, and future-proof. Most retirees request:
- Single-level layouts
- Open living spaces
- Covered outdoor patios
- Easy-to-maintain finishes
- Energy-efficient features
- Extra ventilation
- Guest bedrooms for family visits
Our retirement-friendly models were created with these needs in mind, ensuring comfort from day one—and for decades to come.
Home Building Articles
Casa Divina
/in Custom Home Designs /by Michael PechbrennerDistinguished curb appeal with angled walls, arched windows, raised octagon turret. This home boast strength and stability. The grandeur appearance from the front exterior resembles a structure that must be larger.
Dos Vistas
/0 Comments/in Custom Home Designs /by Michael PechbrennerModern and structurally strong house. Very simple design without moldings, arches, or architectural elements decorative. Yet this home is stunning with its natural garden on the roof
Casa Linda
/in Custom Home Designs /by Michael PechbrennerNautical elements emerge in this design strategically. Including port windows, teak trim, nautical railings, and radius doors. For those with a fondness for the water. This home is ideal for an ocean view lot or a beach lot
Casa Playa
/in Custom Home Designs /by Michael PechbrennerDesigned for the professional in mind. The home boasts many attributes for executive lifestyle, elegance, with amenities. The curb appeal of modern contemporary with class.
Casa Tranquility
/in Custom Home Designs /by Michael PechbrennerThis is a creative and functional design. Strong structural elements, light in weight, ideal for mountain construction. Low construction cost, and minimized labor cost. You certainly receive the best bang for the buck
Casa Prevista
/in Custom Home Designs /by Michael PechbrennerEngineered in light structure materials. Ideal for mountain homes where access is limited and difficult to get to. Especially with large delivery vehicles. Lightweight structure yet very durable from steel I-beams as a major structural element.
Casa Vidro
/2 Comments/in Custom Home Designs /by Michael PechbrennerThis home is a delight for the whole family. This is a modern design with simplicity. Open concept with high ceilings giving this home a grandeur atmosphere. Many separate areas to socialize, relax, and have fun. This home has it all for you.
Costa Rica Retirement Homes for Sale | Build a Home in Costa Rica
/0 Comments/in Building a House /by Michael PechbrennerGet access to the best Costa Rica retirement homes for sale by working with Finish Touch Enterprises, the top Costa Rica construction company.
We’ve been helping American ex-pats to create the home of their dreams for decades, and now we’re ready to help you build your own coastal oasis in paradise.
Why Costa Rica Is a Top Retirement Destination (2025 Overview)
Costa Rica has become one of the world’s most desired retirement destinations—not just for its peaceful lifestyle, but for its stability, climate, and affordability. With excellent healthcare, friendly communities, and a large U.S. expat population, it offers a lifestyle that feels both familiar and adventurous.
Retirees enjoy warm weather year-round, low property taxes, strong property rights, and the freedom to live a slow, nature-centered life without sacrificing comfort. The country continues to attract Americans seeking a safe, stable, and enjoyable place to call home.
Why Retirement Homes in Costa Rica Offer Great Value
Compared to the U.S., Costa Rica provides a lower cost of living, affordable construction options, and long-term property appreciation. A retirement home here becomes more than an escape—it’s a strategic investment.
Many retirees choose to build rather than buy resale homes because custom builds offer:
Finish Touch Enterprises specializes in designing coastal retirement homes tailored to mature lifestyles, mobility needs, and expat preferences.
Costa Rica retirement homes for sale: Frequently asked questions
Before we go into the actual models we have to offers you, let’s go ahead and answer a few questions you might have about acquiring Costa Rica real estate and moving into the country.
Can a US citizen buy Costa Rica real estate?
Yes, as an American citizen you definitely have the right to acquire Costa Rica homes for sale.
And, what’s great about this is that you just need your tourist visa and your passport.
Now, when it comes to actually put any piece of local property under your name, we actually recommend you to use a corporation, where you can act as president.
The reason for this is that buying Costa Rica retirement homes for sale under a corporation simply gives you access to a number of tools that wouldn’t be available to you otherwise.
Coastal Concession property
It’s also important to mention that when you acquire coastal land for sale in Costa Rica to build the ex-pat home of your dreams, you are acquiring such land under the concession figure.
This means that you are long-term leasing the land where you are building your property.
With that said, EVERY SINGLE EX-PAT that has acquired Costa Rica retirement homes for sale on the coast have done it this way for decades.
And all you really need to do at the end of the lease period, which can go from 5 to 20 years, is simply to renovate it.
And, when it comes to re-selling coastal property in Costa Rica, you won’t have any problems doing so at any time you want.
It’s basically YOUR property but granted under concession because it’s too close to the actual public access beaches.
Now, let’s make something clear: this is just for the first 200 meters measured horizontally from the high tide line.
Any coastal land for sale in Costa Rica that goes beyond that, you can actually own without the need of the maritime concession.
The Retirement Home Building Process (Step-by-Step)
Building a retirement home in Costa Rica becomes simple when each step is handled by an experienced team. Our process includes:
This is the simplest, safest way for expats to build long-term homes in Costa Rica.
Should I invest in Costa Rica real estate?
Yes! there are a number of excellent reasons why you would like to give the local Costa Rica real estate market a try.
And, what’s great about investment in Costa Rica property is that this is a very straightforward process.
In fact, if you already have acquired real estate in the United States, then the process is very similar. So, everything will be very similar for you.
Is now a good time to invest in Costa Rica real estate?
Yes! This is the perfect moment so that you can buy Costa Rica retirement homes for sale.
And the reason is that the North American real estate market is currently with outstanding greenlighted figures.
So, it’s truly advisable to sell back home, and then take your earnings and invest a portion of your profits into building a home in Costa Rica, fully customized to your needs and WANTS.
This is of course with the help of Finish Touch Enterprises; the best Costa Rica construction professionals.
Is it cheap to live in Costa Rica?
When you compare living in the United States with the cost of living in Costa Rica, then yes.
Costa Rica is not just a beautiful country; but it’s also affordable enough so that you can experience a great lifestyle, filled with the stuff you love, for about $2,000 per month.
And this even includes any mortgage payments you need to make for your home.
Do ex-pats pay taxes in Costa Rica?
What’s important about this question is the fact that all American citizens, as taxpayers, get taxed on their global income.
With that said, you can acquire Costa Rica investment property while getting some outstanding tax deals at the same time.
And, as this is a country that enjoys a great deal of political stability, this makes investing in Costa Rica retirement homes for sale an even better idea.
With that said, if you want to buy Costa Rica new homes, it’s never a bad idea to know a little bit about United States tax laws vs Costa Rica tax laws.
Now, apart from any taxes, what can be said about the Costa Rica real estate market without a doubt is that it will always generate positive cash flow.
And, let’s also consider the fact that although investing in Costa Rica real estate is very similar to investing in United States real estate, there are a few things that you are not able to do with the offshore property.
Is Costa Rica still a good place to retire?
Yes indeed! In fact, Costa Rica is one of the best places in the world right now to move into.
First, because if you’re thinking about Costa Rica retirement homes for sale, you will enjoy a lot of tax privileges.
And second, and most importantly, because this is a very safe country that offers a great deal of political stability.
In fact, Costa Rica is one of the oldest democracies on the globe.
So, needless to say, peace is definitely a top feature when considering this country as a new place to call home.
How much money do I need to retire comfortably in Costa Rica?
Most expats live comfortably on $1,800–$2,500/month, depending on region and amenities.
Do retirees get residency benefits?
Yes. The Pensionado Program gives retirees residency with only $1,000/month pension income.
Can I bring pets when moving to Costa Rica?
Yes. Costa Rica allows pet entry with proper vaccination records and certificates.
Are healthcare services good for retirees?
Costa Rica has high-quality private hospitals and clinics at a fraction of U.S. costs.
Can a retirement home be rented out when I travel?
Absolutely. Many retirees rent their homes during summer months or long trips.
Do retirement homes in Costa Rica appreciate in value?
Yes. Coastal and expat-preferred regions have consistent long-term appreciation.
Is it safe for retirees to live alone in Costa Rica?
Most retiree communities are extremely safe, peaceful, and welcoming.
Best Regions to Retire in Costa Rica
Retirement looks different depending on your lifestyle. These regions are most popular with U.S. retirees:
Central Southern Pacific (Uvita, Ojochal, Dominical)
Quiet, scenic, and home to a strong expat community. Great for nature lovers.
Guanacaste (Playas del Coco, Tamarindo, Flamingo)
Warm weather, modern services, and excellent hospitals. Perfect for active retirees.
Central Valley (Atenas, Grecia, Heredia)
Cooler climate, stable infrastructure, and access to international clinics.
🏞️ Lake Arenal Region
Peaceful with mountain views—ideal for retirees who prefer cooler temperatures.
These areas balance affordability, safety, and comfort—key retirement priorities.
Geography
Costa Rica is a tropical jewel, located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
This is a country rich in natural diversity. You will soon find yourself surrounded by a large variety of beautiful mountains, valleys, rivers, plains, and volcanoes.
This, in a habitat that goes from tropical dry forest to lowland rainforest.
When in Rome…
Of course, if you really want to get the best out of your new experience as owner of Costa Rica retirement homes for sale, you should consider taking the time to learn the local customs, the culture, and the language.
It’s also important to understand a little bit about how the local economy works; so that you can take advantage of all available opportunities.
What is required to move to Costa Rica?
If you wish to move to Costa Rica, there are actually two excellent plans that you can have access to:
What is the Traspaso or Escritura?
When you hear or see the terms “traspaso” or “escritura” this is simply referring to the title change of property.
So, this is basically the document that states that you own Costa Rica retirement homes for sale.
How is the property title transferred?
If you wish to buy land for sale in Costa Rica to then build Costa Rica retirement homes for sale, you will need the assistance of a public notary.
Luckily for you, all lawyers in Costa Rica are public notaries. So finding the right individual won’t be a problem.
Here at Finish Touch Enterprises, we count on our own legal department to help you with the legal aspects linked to owning Costa Rica homes for sale.
But of course, you’re always welcome to hire your own lawyers; and then we can all work together to get the property registered under your name trouble-free.
Now, here’s how the process goes:
First, the public notary will create the draft for the Escritura or title change of property.
Once all the parts are satisfied with the drafted document, the latter must be taken to the Public Registry or Registro Publico.
If you’re just in the process of acquiring Costa Rica land for sale, at the Public Registry you can also verify all records for the property itself.
When everything has been verified and cleared by the Public Registry, then you will become the new owner. Congratulations!
Cost Expectations for Retirement Homes in Costa Rica
Retirement home costs vary depending on location, design, and terrain, but general ranges include:
Because Finish Touch Enterprises uses in-house crews and direct imports, pricing stays more competitive than market averages.
What Makes a Great Retirement Home in Costa Rica?
A retirement home should be easy to live in, comfortable, efficient, and future-proof. Most retirees request:
Our retirement-friendly models were created with these needs in mind, ensuring comfort from day one—and for decades to come.
Home Building Articles
Affordable Homes for sale in Costa Rica
/0 Comments/in Building a House /by Michael PechbrennerBuild a home in Costa Rica
/0 Comments/in Building a House /by Michael PechbrennerBuild a home in Costa Rica as a way to start creating a more prosperous future, with the help of the best home builders.
Buying Costa Rica investment property means that you’re getting assets that will continue to appreciate even during recession times.
Why Build a Home in Costa Rica in 2025?
Costa Rica has evolved into one of the most attractive destinations for foreign homeowners and investors especially in 2025. Beyond its natural beauty, the country offers a rare combination of political stability, strong property rights, and long-term economic security. These are the kinds of fundamentals investors rely on when choosing a safe place to build or retire.
The country continues investing in infrastructure, tourism, and digital connectivity, making coastal towns and inland communities ideal for both living and rental income opportunities. International demand has also strengthened, driven by Americans, Canadians, and Europeans seeking a peaceful lifestyle with dependable appreciation.
For buyers who want a home that doubles as a long-term asset, Costa Rica delivers a favorable climate financially, socially, and literally. This combination is one of the reasons more expats choose to build instead of purchasing older resale homes.
Why?
It’s simple: This is a beautiful, peaceful country, with no army, and with the most political stability in the region.
And foreign investment is more than welcome.
In fact, the government knows foreigners are a source of wealth for the local economy in all senses.
And for that reason, they definitely want more ex-pats to start calling this amazing country their new home.
Cost to Build a Home in Costa Rica (Updated 2025)
Construction costs in Costa Rica remain competitive compared to North America and Europe, especially when building with an experienced local construction company. While prices can vary depending on location, finishes, and land preparation, most modern homes range between:
Several factors influence the final price:
Finish Touch Enterprises reduces overall costs through direct material importing and the use of their own construction crew—eliminating layers of subcontractor markups that normally inflate pricing.
Work with a reliable Costa Rica construction company
If you want to build a home in Costa Rica and get the best value without overspending, work with a reliable Costa Rica construction company such as Finish Touch Enterprises.
We have been creating the most amazing homes in the best spots all around the Central Southern Pacific and Guanacaste regions for decades.
And as we know foreign buyers well, we’re always working on improving our current set of 30+ home designs.
All with the goal of offering a custom result that will satisfy not just the needs, but most importantly, the WANTS from each one of our clients.
What’s great about our company is that we count on our own Costa Rica construction crew and equipment.
And this means that we know how to think and work as a solid unit. Delivering residential projects in a fast and efficient way.
Plus, we are direct importers of materials. So this means a lot of savings for those working with a set budget.
Step-by-Step Process to Build a Home with Finish Touch Enterprises
Building a home in Costa Rica becomes significantly smoother when you work with a company that handles each step with precision. Our process was designed to help foreign clients build with confidence, clarity, and total transparency.
You explain your vision, goals, budget, and preferred locations, and we provide guidance based on local conditions and investment potential.
If you already own land, we evaluate topography, access roads, utilities, and building conditions. If not, we help you explore options.
Choose from our 30+ architectural models or work with our designers to customize a plan that fits your lifestyle or Airbnb strategy.
We handle all paperwork, including municipal permits, environmental reviews, and construction approvals—so you never deal with bureaucracy.
Our in-house crew and heavy equipment allow us to maintain high quality, eliminate delays, and control every step of the build.
Once complete, we go through the final inspection with you to ensure everything matches your expectations and design intent.
This structured approach prevents cost overruns and ensures your home is delivered efficiently and professionally.
Build a home in Costa Rica as an investment property
Costa Rica offers you the perfect scenario so that you can become a successful owner of investment property Costa Rica.
This is because all you need to own Costa Rica real estate is your tourist visa. That’s it.
And the return on investment it’s outstanding for these kinds of custom-designed properties that Americans love.
The great thing is that when you build a home in Costa Rica with Finish Touch Enterprises, we can design it with your particular selling intentions in mind.
For example, let’s say that you’re looking for Costa Rica real estate for ex-pats for your growing portfolio holding…
Then we can work on the perfect residential project for those looking for Costa Rica retirement homes for sale.
Best Places to Build a Home in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has several regions ideal for foreign homeowners and investors, each offering a different lifestyle and growth potential. Based on our experience, these are the best areas for new builds:
Central Southern Pacific (Ojochal, Uvita, Dominical)
Known for stunning beaches, vibrant wildlife, and one of the most welcoming expat communities. Perfect for retirement homes or Airbnb rentals.
Guanacaste (Tamarindo, Flamingo, Brasilito, Nosara)
Sun-drenched beaches, excellent road infrastructure, and thriving tourism make this region ideal for investment homes and vacation properties.
Lake Arenal Region
A cooler climate with panoramic mountain and lake views. Great for eco-friendly homes and wellness retreats.
Central Valley (Escazú, Santa Ana, Heredia)
Urban comforts with suburban calm. A strong option for families who need access to schools, healthcare, and city services.
Each region offers something different—whether it’s privacy, community, rental demand, or scenic beauty. Working with a local construction team helps you choose the region that matches your goals.
Or, maybe you want to build Costa Rica new homes for those searching for the perfect oasis away from the cold winters at home?
Maybe you want to create your own Costa Rica Airbnb empire by building one or more Costa Rica houses?
And indeed, our custom builders company can definitely help you get the exact result you’re currently envisioning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building a Home in Costa Rica
Many foreigners make avoidable mistakes when building their first home in Costa Rica. Preventing these early saves time, stress, and money.
Choosing land without proper access roads
Some lots look perfect but require expensive grading or road work.
Hiring foreign builders instead of experienced local teams
Local knowledge is essential for construction laws, terrain, and climate.
Underestimating permit timelines
Professional help speeds this up dramatically.
Not budgeting for land preparation
Costa Rica’s terrain varies—flat lots are rare.
Choosing materials without considering humidity and coastal conditions
Local builders know what performs best long-term.
By avoiding these pitfalls, you ensure your home is durable, legal, and designed for the Costa Rican environment.
Costa Rica homes for sale: The perfect ex-pat custom residence
Let’s also discuss the possibility of you owning your own ex-pat exclusive residence in Costa Rica.
Here at Finish Touch Enterprises, we have worked with an extensive list of ex-pats who have chosen this wonderful country to start a new, re-envigorating life in paradise.
We have a number of exclusive models that have been designed with ex-pats in mind.
This means that these wonderful homes really offer you a number of amenities that will allow you to have the best time, all the time.
Build a home in Costa Rica: Become an ex-pat
What’s great about owning residential property in Costa Rica is that you automatically apply to become a resident.
During the waiting time for you to become a permanent resident of the country, all you need to do is to step out of the border for 72 hours every 3 months, and then you can return for another 3 months with your tourist visa.
All in all, the American and Costa Rica governments are very friendly towards the other.
And that means that as an American that’s registering Costa Rica investment property to move into the country, you will really be perceived as an ex-pat by everybody.
And you will really find this is a country that you will definitely enjoy living in.
Not just because of all the natural beauty. But also because this is a very American-like country, particularly in the coastal areas where our company operates.
Right at the coast in the Central Souther Pacific and Guanacaste, you will find yourself in your own stunningly beautiful isolated oasis; yet, you will be just minutes away from amazing restaurants; a lot of them run by successful ex-pats like yourself.
So, living in Costa Rica, and particularly in these amazing areas, means that you will feel in a new incredible environment, surrounded by nature you will feel thrilled to explore.
And you will also feel close to the people and the culture from back home because of this phenomenal, growing ex-pat community in the country.
Homes for sale in Costa Rica: Your second home away from home
If you don’t want to move to the country permanently, yet you still want to own Costa Rica real estate, then we can help you build a home in Costa Rica so that you can escape the long winters in the warmer, friendlier regions.
And now everybody is working away from the office.
So you can come and work from your new home in Costa Rica. Trusting that this is a country that counts with the best technical infrastructure for any professional to deliver work remotely fast and efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. Costa Rica allows foreigners to own property with the same rights as citizens, even on a tourist visa.
Most homes take 8–12 months, depending on design complexity and location.
No. You can build, own, and manage property without residency.
Yes—new builds offer better ROI, modern layouts, and lower maintenance.
Two- and three-bedroom modern homes between 120–250 m² are the most requested.
Absolutely. Costa Rica’s Airbnb market is thriving, especially in coastal towns.
Guanacaste and the Central Southern Pacific consistently outperform other regions.
Build a home in Costa Rica: Contact Us
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Start by contacting CEO Michael Pechbrenner so that we can offer you a FREE CONSULTATION on how our company can help you turn your residential project plans into a reality.
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