Are you dreaming of building your custom home or investing in raw land near the beach? Buying land in Esterillos, Costa Rica, is one of the smartest moves you can make, whether you’re looking for a personal retreat, a development opportunity, or a long-term investment.
In this 2025 step-by-step guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about purchasing land in Esterillos, including legal requirements, due diligence, and expert tips to protect your investment.
Why Buy Land in Esterillos, Costa Rica?
Esterillos is a coastal town on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast, prized for its natural beauty, laid-back vibe, and growing popularity among expats and investors. It’s divided into Esterillos Oeste, Centro, and Este, each offering beachfront, jungle, and mountain-view land parcels.
Key Reasons to Buy Land in Esterillos:
- Lower Prices than more developed areas like Jacó or Manuel Antonio
- High Investment Potential due to increasing interest in the region
- Ideal for Building custom homes, vacation rentals, or eco-developments
- Full Ownership Rights for foreigners (fee simple land title)
Can Foreigners Buy Land in Costa Rica?
Yes, foreigners can legally buy land in Costa Rica, including in Esterillos, with the same rights as Costa Rican citizens. There are no restrictions on land ownership, as long as the property is titled and not in the restricted maritime zone (more on that below).
Important: Always verify that the land has a clear title and is outside of the maritime zone, which extends 200 meters from the high-tide mark and has special restrictions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Land in Esterillos, Costa Rica
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Are you planning to build a home? Develop multiple units? Hold the land as a long-term investment? Clarifying your purpose helps narrow down location, zoning requirements, and land type.
Step 2: Work with a Local Real Estate Expert
Partner with a trusted local agency like Century 21 KS Investments, which specializes in land and property sales in Esterillos. A knowledgeable agent will help you:
- Identify titled land
- Understand zoning regulations
- Negotiate with sellers
Step 3: Hire a Bilingual Real Estate Attorney
A local attorney is crucial to perform due diligence, review contracts, and guide the legal process. They will:
- Verify land title through the National Registry
- Confirm land use/zoning laws
- Ensure there are no liens, debts, or boundary issues
Step 4: Conduct Due Diligence
Before making any payments, verify:
- Title Status (must be registered in the National Registry)
- Zoning and Land Use Permits (residential, commercial, agricultural)
- Water Access & Utilities (crucial for development)
- Topography and Access Roads
- Environmental Restrictions, especially near protected areas
Tip: Request a recent Plano Catastrado (land survey map) and Uso de Suelo (land use certificate) from the municipality.
Step 5: Make an Offer and Sign a Purchase Agreement
Once due diligence is complete, your attorney will help prepare an Option to Purchase Agreement, typically including:
- Purchase price
- Deposit (usually 10-20%)
- Timeline and closing conditions
Funds are typically held in a secure escrow account through a licensed third party.
Step 6: Close the Deal
At closing, the title is transferred via a notary public, and the sale is registered with the National Registry. You can choose to register the property under:
- Your personal name
- A Costa Rican corporation (SA or SRL), often used for liability and estate planning
Additional Costs of Buying Land in Esterillos
- Legal Fees: ~1%–1.5% of the purchase price
- Transfer Tax & Registration: ~2.5%
- Escrow Fees: ~0.25%–1%
- Survey or Topography Reports (if needed)
- Property Taxes: 0.25% of registered value annually
What to Watch Out For When Buying Land in Costa Rica
- Untitled Land: Avoid unless you’re fully aware of risks (e.g., right of possession).
- Maritime Zone Land: Properties within 200 meters of the high-tide line are heavily regulated.
- No Water Letter: Without water access or a concession, building permits are difficult to obtain.
- Zoning Violations: Don’t assume you can build. Verify land use with the local municipality first.
Land for Sale in Esterillos: What’s Available?
You’ll find a range of land options in Esterillos:
- Ocean-view lots in gated communities
- Jungle acreage with privacy and natural beauty
- Roadside commercial lots
- Agricultural parcels or development-ready plots
Browse available land listings at Century 21 KS Investments to see what’s on the market.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy Land in Esterillos?
If you’re looking for an affordable yet high-potential location to invest in Costa Rica real estate, Esterillos is a fantastic choice. Whether you’re building your dream beach house, launching a rental business, or securing land for future value, this coastal town is filled with opportunity.
Ready to Buy Land in Esterillos?
Contact the local experts at Century 21 KS Investments to schedule a property tour or get personalized help navigating the land-buying process in Costa Rica.
