What Grupo GAP Does Not Do

Knowing what a company does not do is as useful as knowing what it does. It sets clear expectations, and it helps you spot anyone who promises more than they should. Here is what Grupo GAP does not do, across GAP Real Estate, GAP Equity Loans and GAP Investments, and what happens instead.

GAP is not a bank

GAP does not take deposits, and it does not take in money from the public to lend for its own account. Costa Rica reserves that activity, financial intermediation, for entities authorized by law and by SUGEF (Law 7558, article 116). GAP arranges private loans: a lender funds each specific loan, and the loan is secured by a first-lien mortgage in the lender’s favor.

GAP does not promise loan approval or funding

Every loan depends on the property review, the documents and a lender’s decision to fund it. For lenders, rates range from 9% to 16% a year, and every loan is secured by a first-degree mortgage registered in the National Registry. Anyone promising a guaranteed, risk-free return should make you cautious.

GAP does not arrange second-position loans

On standard loans the lender always holds first position. If a property already has a mortgage, it must be paid off at or before closing.

GAP does not lend against beach concessions

GAP lends only against titled property registered in the National Registry. Under Law 6043, the maritime-terrestrial zone belongs to the State and is used under concessions, so concession land is not accepted as security.

GAP does not charge borrowers before closing

On standard loans there are no costs to pay before closing. Borrowers pay the loan fees, which are deducted from the proceeds at closing. GAP Real Estate is likewise paid only when a sale closes.

GAP does not collect loan payments

Borrowers pay lenders directly each month. GAP’s main work is arranging the loan through closing. It does not collect or distribute payments or issue portfolio statements, but it can help with communication if a borrower or lender reports a problem.

GAP does not give legal or tax advice

GAP explains how its process works, but your own attorney reviews your documents and your own adviser confirms tax questions. GAP works with experienced closing attorneys and notaries, and you are welcome to use your own.

GAP does not file SUGEF registrations for lenders

Lenders who lend as an organized, habitual activity may need to register with SUGEF. GAP can walk you through what the registration involves and connect you with independent Costa Rican attorneys or compliance professionals who prepare and file it. The lender signs the application.

GAP does not handle immigration

Residency is never required to buy, borrow or lend through GAP. If you want to live in Costa Rica, CRIE handles immigration and residency at info@crie.cr.

GAP does not pay project costs for very large projects

For projects of US$50 million and up, led by Steven, the sponsor pays all project preparation, permit and financing costs. GAP can talk with sponsors about getting a project ready, but it does not fund that preparation.

What Grupo GAP does do

GAP helps people buy and sell property, borrow against titled property, and lend against Costa Rica real estate, with one contact for all of it. Email info@gap.cr. Our office is in Escazú. For the full picture, see the GAP companies in Costa Rica: who handles what.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does GAP lend its own money?

No. What Grupo GAP does is arrange private loans that lenders fund. Each loan is secured by a first-lien mortgage in the lender’s favor.

Does GAP guarantee my return as a lender?

No. If a borrower ever stops paying, the property stands behind the loan.

Will GAP chase late payments for me?

Borrowers pay lenders directly. GAP can help with communication if a problem is reported, but it is not a collection service.

Do I have to pay anything to apply for a loan?

No. On standard loans, fees are deducted at closing and nothing is paid before.

This article is general information only and is not legal, financial or tax advice. Legal references summarize Costa Rican law as published in SCIJ; confirm how they apply to you with a Costa Rican attorney.

Contact Grupo GAP → · WhatsApp us at +506 4001 6413 to get started, call or email info@gap.cr