Selling Property in Costa Rica: From Listing to Closing

Selling a property in Costa Rica goes more smoothly when you know the order of things: what to prepare, what the sale will cost, what happens to any loan on the property, and what to do with the money afterwards. This guide to selling property in Costa Rica walks through the process from listing to closing, and shows where each Grupo GAP company can help.

1. Get the paperwork ready before you list

When selling property in Costa Rica, expect buyers and their attorneys to check the property, so it helps to have the answers ready:

• the registered title and any mortgages or liens on it;
• the survey plan for the property;
• municipal property taxes, paid up to date;
• building permits for the construction on the property;
• water and access documents.

Missing papers do not always stop a sale, but they slow it down and can weaken your negotiating position. Our buyer’s guide to due diligence in Costa Rica shows what the other side will look at.

2. List with GAP Real Estate

GAP Real Estate markets the property, handles enquiries and helps you negotiate. Sellers pay GAP Real Estate only when the sale closes; there are no GAP fees before closing. The seller’s consultant fee is agreed in the listing agreement, paid at closing. You can list your property online.

Owners of any nationality can sell through GAP, and residency is not required.

3. Understand what selling costs

A sale has costs beyond the consultant fee. As a general guide, closing costs apply, covering the attorney, GAP’s consultant fee and other legal costs. Who pays each item can be part of the negotiation, and your attorney confirms the exact amounts for your sale. Ask your attorney or accountant about any taxes that apply to the sale before you agree a price, so the number you accept is the number that works for you.

Real estate agent fees in Costa Rica explains the consultant fee in more detail.

4. Offers, negotiation and signing

When an offer arrives, look past the price: the timing, conditions, how the buyer will pay and who covers which costs all matter. Have your attorney review any offer or purchase agreement before you sign it.

5. If the property still has a mortgage

A mortgage does not stop you from selling. It is normally paid off from the sale proceeds at closing, so the buyer receives the property free of that lien. Get a payoff figure from your lender early so you know what you will receive. See selling a home with a mortgage in Costa Rica.

If the property is rented, selling a home with tenants covers what to plan for.

6. Closing

At closing, the transfer is signed before a notary, any mortgage is paid off, costs are settled and the transfer is registered in the National Registry. Confirm payment instructions by phone before any money moves, using a number you already have, especially if you are selling from abroad.

When other GAP companies can help

• Before the sale: if the property needs work to sell well, GAP Equity Loans can lend against it from US$50,000, with the loan repaid from the sale at closing.
• After the sale: if you do not need all the proceeds, GAP Investments arranges private loans secured by Costa Rica real estate, with lender rates from 9% to 16% a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I pay GAP Real Estate anything before my property sells?

No. GAP Real Estate is paid only when the sale closes. The seller’s consultant fee is agreed in the listing agreement.

Can I sell property in Costa Rica if I live abroad?

Yes. Owners of any nationality can sell through GAP. Your attorney will explain how signing and closing work when you are not in the country.

Can I sell a property that still has a mortgage?

Yes. The mortgage is normally paid off from the proceeds at closing.

What does selling property in Costa Rica cost overall?

Your attorney can confirm the closing costs for your transaction. Your attorney confirms the exact figures for your sale.

This article is general information only and is not legal, financial or tax advice. Confirm the details of any sale with a licensed Costa Rica attorney or notary.

List your property with GAP Real Estate → · WhatsApp us at +506 4001 6413 to get started, call or email info@gap.cr