Homeowners and an agent standing by the pool of a hillside villa at sunset
|

Sell Your Costa Rica Property With No Fees Until Closing

Byadmin

When you sell your Costa Rica property with GAP Real Estate, you pay no fees until closing. GAP is paid only when the sale closes, through the seller’s commission of the commission agreed in the listing agreement, and there are no GAP fees before closing. This guide explains how listing with GAP works, what you pay and when, and how to prepare.

It is general information, not legal or tax advice.

How No Fees Until Closing Works

GAP does not charge sellers before the sale closes. The commission is paid at closing, based on the final sale price, so GAP is paid only when your property actually sells.

Other selling costs still apply, and they are separate from GAP’s commission. A Costa Rica sale involves attorney and notary work, registration, and the property transfer tax, which the law assigns to the seller and buyer in equal parts. Overall, closing costs cover the attorneys, the real estate commission, and other legal costs. Ask your attorney for an itemized estimate before you accept an offer.

What GAP Real Estate Lists

GAP Real Estate lists titled residential homes and villas across Costa Rica. Owners of any nationality can list, and Costa Rican residency is not required.

Agent showing a couple printed property details outdoors

How the Listing Process Works

  • Share your property details: location, property type, features, and the documents a buyer will ask to see.
  • Your listing goes live: the property appears on the GAP Real Estate platform and associated channels, with real photography and a public price.
  • Inquiries are screened: buyer inquiries are routed through GAP and qualified for seriousness, and you receive updates on activity and feedback from viewings.
  • Offers and negotiation: offers are made in writing through an Opción de Compraventa, and GAP advises on the terms and assists with negotiation. A deposit is typically held in escrow.
  • Due diligence: the buyer’s attorney reviews title, survey, and liens during the agreed period, commonly 30–45 days, and the purchase agreement is reviewed by attorneys for both parties.
  • Closing: a notary-attorney handles the closing, the title is registered in the buyer’s name at the National Registry, and GAP’s commission is paid at closing.
Smiling agent outside a modern home with a pool and lawn

Documents to Have Ready

  • The property’s registry information and cadastral survey (plano catastrado)
  • Proof that property taxes and municipal charges are up to date
  • Condominium documents and current fee status, if applicable
  • Company records, if the property is held in a corporation
  • A power of attorney, if you will not be in Costa Rica during the sale

Having these ready helps a serious buyer’s attorney move quickly once an offer is accepted.

Price It Right From the Start

Pricing is the most important decision a seller makes. A price based on comparable properties attracts serious inquiries sooner, while a price based on what the owner hopes to receive can leave a property sitting for months and invite lower offers later. GAP can help you review your pricing before the listing goes live.

Agent standing in front of two-story homes on a quiet street

What Sellers Pay at Closing

  • GAP’s commission agreed in the listing agreement
  • The seller’s share of the property transfer tax, as the law assigns it in equal parts
  • Your attorney’s fees and any other agreed closing costs

Closing costs apply. The purchase agreement sets how costs are shared between buyer and seller.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does GAP charge anything before the property sells?

No. GAP is paid only when the sale closes, and there are no GAP fees before closing.

How much is GAP’s commission?

GAP’s seller commission is agreed in the listing agreement, paid at closing.

Are there other costs when I sell?

Yes. Attorney and notary work, registration, and the property transfer tax apply. Closing costs include the commission.

Do I need Costa Rican residency to list my property?

No. Owners of any nationality can list with GAP Real Estate.

What types of property does GAP list?

GAP Real Estate lists titled residential homes and villas across Costa Rica.

This article is general information only and is not legal or tax advice. GAP Real Estate is not a legal or tax advisor. Speak with a qualified Costa Rican attorney or accountant about your sale.

WhatsApp us at +506 8888 0003 to get started.

Ready to sell? List your Costa Rica property with GAP Real Estate, read the Costa Rica Seller Guide, or email info@gap.cr.

Similar Posts