Closing Cost Estimator
Closing costs in Costa Rica—including transfer fees, legal fees, registry costs, and sales tax (VAT/IVA)—must be factored into your budget when calculating the total cost of buying or selling property. These costs are typically paid by the buyer or shared with the seller, depending on your negotiation.
USE OUR FREE TOOL TO ESTIMATE YOUR CLOSING COSTS
Expenses Not Included in Closing Cost Calculations
The closing costs only cover the legal fees required to transfer ownership. They do not include other potential expenses, such as:
Due diligence costs: Includes topographic reviews, home inspections, and additional legal work not covered by your attorney’s notary fees. Note: Attorneys acting as notaries often include some due diligence in their fees. Confirm billing structures and inclusions with your legal counsel.
Escrow fees: While not mandatory, escrow services are commonly used, and their fees (plus VAT) are not included in the calculations.
Corporate setup or dissolution costs: Many buyers use Costa Rican corporations to hold property titles. Costs to set up a new corporation or close an existing one are not factored into these estimates. For more on corporate ownership, visit our FAQ section.
Capital gains (sellers only): Sellers are subject to a 15% capital gains tax on properties they acquired after July 1st, 2019, unless the property is their primary residence, where they must have lived for at least 183 days per year.