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Real Estate in Tamarindo, Costa Rica | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

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By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 10, 2024

Summary: The most desirable neighborhoods in Tamarindo, Costa Rica are Playa Langosta, Playa Grande, and Tamarindo Centro. On average, a nice 2 bedroom home in Tamarindo can cost anywhere from $200,000 to $400,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost anywhere from $300,000 to $500,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, swimming pools, and outdoor living spaces. Foreigners are allowed to own property in Tamarindo, however, they must obtain a residency visa in order to do so. The best way for an expat to search for a home to buy in Tamarindo is to use a real estate agent or to search online for listings. It is also important to research the local laws and regulations regarding foreign ownership of property in the area.

How do I find a place to live in Tamarindo?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"On one visit, we took a side trip to Costa Rica to explore the beaches of Guanacaste. When we drove into Tamarindo, it felt a California beach town with a nice vibe. Over the next couple of years, we took a few trips to Playa Flamingo and Tamarindo to further explore the area and to look at condos for sale. We bought an ocean view condo in Tamarindo a couple of years before we retired, and then moved there full time after retiring in May 2013 (age 61-62). We liked the beach and the availability of a variety of restaurants and stores in Tamarindo, and easy walking access in town," said one person in Tamarindo.

"Tamarindo is a popular destination for tourists and expats alike, and there are many options for finding a place to live. One of the best ways to find a place to live in Tamarindo is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that specialize in rental listings for Tamarindo, such as Tamarindo Rentals, Tamarindo Real Estate, and Tamarindo Vacation Rentals. Additionally, there are many local real estate agents and property management companies that can help you find a place to live in Tamarindo. You can also look for rental listings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in the area. Finally, you can also ask around in the local community for recommendations on places to rent," said one expat who made the move to Tamarindo.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Tamarindo?

"A typical expat home or apartment in Tamarindo is usually a modern, air-conditioned space with plenty of natural light and a spacious balcony or terrace. The apartments are typically furnished with comfortable furniture and equipped with all the necessary amenities, such as a kitchen, laundry facilities, and a private bathroom. Many of the homes and apartments also have access to a shared pool and other outdoor recreational areas. Tamarindo is a popular destination for expats, so there are plenty of options available to suit any budget," said one person in Tamarindo.

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What is the average cost of housing in Tamarindo?

If you are thinking about moving to Tamarindo, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Tamarindo can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation and location. Generally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $800 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost up to $1,200 per month. Prices for larger homes and villas can range from $1,500 to $3,000 per month," said one expat who made the move to Tamarindo.

"It depends on how close you want to be to the water. Are you willing to live in the surrounding area like Huacus or Villareal? It can be anywhere from $600 to thousands," explained one foreigner living in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.

Should I buy or rent a home in Tamarindo?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Tamarindo, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Tamarindo can be a great investment, as the area is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the cost of purchasing a home. Renting a home in Tamarindo can be a great option for those who are looking for a more flexible living situation, as it allows for more freedom to explore the area without the commitment of a long-term purchase. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Tamarindo should be based on individual needs and preferences," said one person in Tamarindo.

What do I need to know when buying property in Tamarindo?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Tamarindo, they said:

"When buying property in Tamarindo, it is important to research the local laws and regulations regarding real estate transactions. It is also important to understand the local market and the current prices of properties in the area. It is also important to hire a qualified lawyer to help with the legal aspects of the transaction. Additionally, it is important to understand the local infrastructure and services available in the area, such as water, electricity, and internet. Finally, it is important to be aware of any potential risks associated with the property, such as flooding or landslides," said one expat in Tamarindo.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Tamarindo?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Tamarindo, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Tamarindo. The Costa Rican government has established a legal framework that allows foreign citizens to purchase and own real estate in the country. This is known as the "Fractional Ownership Law" and it allows foreign citizens to purchase and own real estate in Costa Rica without having to obtain residency. The law also allows for the transfer of title to the property to the foreign citizen, making it possible for them to own the property in their own name," said one expat in Tamarindo.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Tamarindo what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Tamarindo typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, microwave, and washing machine. Some properties may also include a dishwasher, air conditioning, and/or a clothes dryer. Additionally, many properties come with basic kitchenware, such as pots, pans, dishes, and utensils," wrote one expat who made the move to Tamarindo.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Tamarindo:

We asked foreigners in Tamarindo what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats can search for homes in Tamarindo by looking online for real estate listings, contacting local real estate agents, and asking other expats for recommendations. They can also search for rental properties on websites such as Airbnb and VRBO. Additionally, expats can look for classified ads in local newspapers and online forums," explained one foreigner living in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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