Coastal Costa Rica can be a dream investment—but only if the fundamentals are real. Here are common mistakes we see (and how to avoid them) when buying in markets like Santa Teresa.
Key takeaways
- Verify access, drainage, and water before you commit.
- “Rental-ready” should mean systems and logistics are truly operational.
- Budget realistically for maintenance in humid, salty environments.
1) Buying the view and ignoring access
A stunning view doesn’t help if access is seasonal or unsafe.
2) Underestimating water planning
Water is not a footnote. Verify reliability, storage, and contingency.
3) Assuming “rental-ready” means operationally ready
Rental-ready means:
- Systems work consistently
- Supplies and logistics are planned
- A manager can operate it without drama
4) Ignoring drainage and erosion
Tropical storms test design. Confirm drainage plans and slope stability.
5) Not budgeting for maintenance
Humidity and salt air accelerate wear. Budget and plan preventively.
FAQ
What should I check first on a site visit?
Road access, drainage patterns, and the water setup (source + storage) are a strong starting point.
Are ocean-view properties riskier than in-town homes?
They can be, depending on access roads, slope stability, and water/infrastructure. Due diligence matters more than the category.
How do I avoid “surprise” operational issues?
Run a checklist-driven inspection: test systems, review maintenance history, and confirm you have a realistic local operations plan.
Next step
Use our checklist: Buying Property in Costa Rica as a Foreigner.
Then explore opportunities: Real Estate.