Building a Home

Building a home in Costa Rica can be a rewarding experience. Through its Concierge service, Coldwell Banker can arm you with dependable resources to turn your architectural plans into reality. Your first step will be to find a licensed architect or engineer; they are the only ones qualified to apply for a construction permit. Their fee schedule is established by the Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y Arquitectos. The first stage involves construction plans and permits: preliminary studies (depending on the scope of the project); pre-project design; construction plans and technical specifications. In addition to the permits listed above, you will need a construction permit from the municipality where your property is located. Each municipality creates and enforces building codes for construction project in its area. Note: Condominium, commercial construction or urbanization projects require additional permits.

Planes reguladores (urban plans) outline zoning considerations in many areas. Your attorney will do the proper title research to ensure you purchase the land best suited for your construction. Things to consider when building Costa Rica real estate are environmental regulations, such as national wildlife refuges and areas deemed protected by the forestry law, and the Maritime Zoning Law (see Beachfront Property.)

Costa Rica real estate - Building Considerations

Good contractors do exist. Look for an experienced construction firm that can assist you with permits as well as building. Interview several companies; ask several questions. Ask to see completed projects, and speak with past clients to find out their satisfaction level with the company.

Ask other residents where you are building or online to recommend specific workers or companies.

All architects and engineers in Costa Rica must be licensed by the Costa Rican Association of Engineers and Architects (Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y Ingenieros y Arquitectos-CFIA HYPERLINK); this body keeps a list of professionals and set fee schedules. If you do not speak Spanish, have a trusted bilingual representative contact the association to verify the credentials and fees of your chosen architect and engineer.

Before you sign any contract for Costa Rica real estate, be sure that the fee structure is transparent and that you understand it. Likewise, clearly define the responsibilities that your architect/engineer, general contractor and any subcontractors are going to assume.