Let’s put the REAL back in Costa Rica real estate

by | Costa Rica

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My blogs try to counter the misinformation that I see spreading around Facebook groups about Costa Rica as well as the internet, in general.

This is one of the big reasons I wrote my book, Moving to Costa Rica Simplified (grab your copy here). 

In addition to my relocation work, I’m now also a licensed REALTOR® here in Costa Rica.

Having bought and sold properties in both California and Costa Rica, I’ve experienced the differences firsthand.

  • Homes are built differently here.
  • The buying process is different.
  • And those differences matter.

Through my relocation work, I’ve acted as a consultant, supporting clients with their property purchases… connecting them with qualified professionals, flagging potential issues, and asking the questions they didn’t know to ask, saving a lot of stress down the line.

This approach doesn’t always match the status quo, but I believe buyers deserve someone who’s fully in their corner – no mixed (or hidden) agendas. I’ve seen what happens when agents put profit over integrity and it’s almost never in the buyer’s best interest.

I’m licensed, registered with Hacienda and SUGEF, and certified to legally and responsibly represent buyers.

For now, I’ll be working exclusively as a buyer’s agent (I’m certified as an Accredited Buyer’s Representative ABR®) – because when you’re buying in a country that isn’t your own, you need someone who’s here to advocate for you, not just close a sale or collect a commission.

Unfortunately, there are many people working in real estate here without meeting the legal requirements – blurring the lines between what’s legal, ethical, and just convenient – and undermining the trust this work should be built on.

You’ll likely only buy a few properties in your lifetime, and chances are, not many of them will be in a foreign country. It’s a big decision, and you deserve to work with someone who genuinely has your best interests at heart.

To legally work as a real estate agent in Costa Rica, you must:

  • Be a legal resident, with a permanent residency card, free of conditions
  • Register with Hacienda (the tax authority)
  • Register with SUGEF (the financial regulatory agency)
  • And be certified by one of the two real estate organizations

I’m here to do things differently – with integrity, ethics, and your best interest at the center of every decision.

If you’re thinking about buying property in Costa Rica and want support that’s legal, ethical, and buyer-focused, I’m here to help.

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Hey there, I'm Chrissy

This is my little corner of the internet where I share all things about moving to and living in Costa Rica.

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