Blogs
Ask anyone who has settled into life along the Papagayo Peninsula what first won them over, and chances are the answer won’t just be the natural beauty and lifestyle. It’s the weather. Crisp offshore breezes, months of reliable sun, and the reassuring rhythm of tropical seasons shape not only daily life but also the way real estate here holds its value.
On a bright January morning, a family from Denver unlocked the front door of their ocean-view condo in Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste. They weren’t residents, nor friends of the owner—they were Airbnb guests, the third group that month. Meanwhile, the property’s owner, sipping coffee 3,000 miles away in Toronto, opened her property management app to see a satisfying notification: another week booked, another deposit pending. Welcome to the new reality of buying a rental property in Costa Rica.
Thinking Like an Investor in Paradise
The Basics of Choosing a Building Lot
You fell in love with Costa Rica and after looking at all the built homes in the area you decided that you want to buy a lot and build. If you haven’t built a house from scratch before than this guide will be quite useful. Even If you have built a home in the past this will help you avoid pitfalls particular to Costa Rica and keep you on the right track.
Before we go any further, we must assume that you have hired an experienced realtor who will ensure the basics are covered that apply to any lot purchase:
A Festive Transition: From Green Season to Christmas
In Costa Rica, Christmas marks the start of the dry season—a welcome change after months of tropical rains. December ushers in clear skies, cooler breezes in the Central Valley, and a collective shift toward celebration. Unlike the commercial frenzy found in many countries, Costa Rica’s Christmas traditions are rooted in family, faith, and community. These customs blend Catholic heritage with local culture, creating a unique holiday atmosphere.
Introduction: Understanding the Appeal
Costa Rica has become a top destination for Americans seeking property abroad. With its sun-drenched beaches, stable democracy, impressive biodiversity, and strong eco-tourism economy, the country offers a compelling mix of lifestyle and investment potential. Whether it's a retirement dream, a second home, or a rental property, Costa Rica consistently draws interest from U.S. buyers.