Thinking of relocating to Costa Rica? Whether you’re a retiree chasing the pura vida, a family seeking a fresh start, or an expat drawn by the warm climate and affordable living, there’s one essential step you shouldn’t skip: visit first, buy later.
Let’s walk through why taking the time to explore before investing in Costa Rican property is not just smart — it’s essential.
The Dream vs. The Reality of Moving to Costa Rica
On Instagram, Costa Rica looks like paradise — and for many, it is. But there’s a big difference between vacationing and living full-time in a foreign country.
Why a vacation is not enough to decide
During a vacation, you’re in relaxation mode. You’re not testing the internet speed, dealing with banking, or seeing what rainy season really feels like. Real life in Costa Rica has its own pace, rhythms, and quirks — and they vary greatly by region.
The emotional blind spots that affect first-time buyers
Many expats admit they fell in love with a property too quickly, skipping essential steps like due diligence or even visiting in the off-season. By the time reality sets in, the contract is signed.
Visiting first allows you to avoid emotional decisions and replace them with informed ones.
Visit First, Decide Later: What You Learn by Being There
Neighborhood culture and local rhythm
Every region in Costa Rica has its own flavor. Tamarindo is buzzing and touristy; Atenas is known for its spring-like climate and expat communities; the Southern Zone is quieter and more affordable.
By visiting in person, you’ll discover whether a place feels right. You’ll walk the streets, try the coffee, talk to neighbors — things Google Maps can’t offer.
Infrastructure surprises: transportation, internet, healthcare
Not all towns have paved roads or reliable internet. And even if they do, access to hospitals, schools, and public services may vary.
Would you buy a car without driving it first? Why buy a home without walking through its community?
How visiting can save you thousands
Buying property remotely increases risk. A 2023 study from International Living found that 43% of expats who purchased property without visiting later reported “moderate to significant regrets” (source: internationalliving.com).
Top Mistakes People Make When Buying Sight Unseen
Falling in love online
Photos can lie — or at least mislead. That “ocean view” might be a sliver between rooftops. That “5-minute walk to town” may mean a 5-minute hike up a steep dirt road.
Underestimating legal and ownership rules
Foreigners can buy property in Costa Rica, but the process differs from U.S. or European systems. Hiring a bilingual real estate attorney is essential, but even more essential is knowing what questions to ask — which you’ll only understand better after visiting.
Ignoring the microclimates and rainy season
Costa Rica has dozens of microclimates. What feels like a breezy paradise in January may feel like a jungle sauna in May. Visiting during different seasons helps you test your lifestyle compatibility.
Smart Travel Tips Before Buying Property in Costa Rica
Regions to visit depending on your lifestyle goals
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Beach life: Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa
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Mountain living: Atenas, Grecia, San Ramón
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Family-friendly areas: Escazú, Heredia
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Tranquility seekers: Ojochal, Uvita, Pérez Zeledón
Spend at least 2–4 weeks traveling to 3-4 regions, including off-season months, if possible.
Questions to ask locals, agents, and expats
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What do you wish you knew before moving here?
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What’s internet like during storms?
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How’s access to healthcare and schools?
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Would you buy property here again?
How long should you stay before making a decision?
Ideally, a few weeks to a few months. Some do a “trial move” — renting for 6 months before committing to buy. Others do 2-3 trips over a year to compare seasons and regions.
Current Market Trends (2024–2025): What to Know Before You Invest
Recent statistics on property value increases
According to the Costa Rica Real Estate Report 2024 by CRBE, the Pacific Coast saw a 12.5% rise in average property value in the last year. The Central Valley remained steady but saw increased demand from digital nomads and families (source: crbe.com).
Where Americans and Europeans are buying most
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Americans: Dominical, Tamarindo, Atenas
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Europeans: Grecia, Nosara, San Isidro
Popular expat towns in 2025 (according to International Living)
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Atenas
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Ojochal
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Playa Flamingo
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Uvita
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Grecia
Visit First, Decide Later”: Relocation Support That Makes a Difference
Why relocation, property and lifestyle guidance matter
Costa Rica is not just a property — it’s a lifestyle decision. Local expertise helps match your goals with regions, communities, and home types that truly fit.
How personalized support reduces stress and increases success
From navigating permits to understanding residency options, having a guide who knows the terrain avoids months of headaches.
The kind of help that saves you time and regret
Our team offers relocation, property and lifestyle consulting based on real, on-the-ground experience. We don’t sell you the dream — we walk it with you.
✅ Visit First, Decide Later
✈️ Ready to explore before you invest?
Let us help you experience Costa Rica the right way — with local insights, property guidance, and relocation support tailored to your goals.
Start your journey today.
📩 Contact us for personalized advice.
🔗 Sources Used
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CRBE Costa Rica Real Estate Report 2024
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Visit Costa Rica – Official Tourism Board
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International Living – Costa Rica Reports
