FAQs

Ownership & Legal Framework

Clear information on buying property in Costa Rica as an international owner.

Yes. Foreign nationals have the same property ownership rights as Costa Rican citizens under Costa Rican law. Real estate can be held personally or through a corporation, and title is recorded in the Costa Rica National Registry. Arenal Hills ownership follows this established legal framework.

No. Residency is not required to purchase property in Costa Rica. Many international buyers acquire property prior to applying for residency status. Ownership and immigration status are separate legal processes.

Ownership follows a structured process. Buyers select a villa model, choose a homesite within the master-planned community, personalise interior finishes from curated packages, and move through defined construction milestones prior to completion and handover. Legal documentation and contract stages are coordinated with licensed professionals.

Closing costs in Costa Rica typically range between 3.5% and 5% of the registered property value. These may include transfer taxes, legal fees, and registration expenses. Exact figures are confirmed during the purchase process.

Yes. Title insurance is available in Costa Rica through recognised international providers. While not mandatory, many international buyers choose to obtain title insurance for additional peace of mind.

Costa Rica does have a different system, but Arenal Hills is fully permitted as a condominium community, which is the most secure ownership structure here. Each owner holds titled ownership, and the community is governed under established condominium law. That’s one of the reasons international buyers are comfortable here.

The master plan consists of 128 villas released in structured phases. Phased development supports infrastructure coordination, construction scheduling, and architectural consistency across the community.

Construction timelines vary depending on villa model and phase release. Estimated timelines are provided during consultation and outlined in purchase documentation.

Living in the Arenal Region

Practical considerations for living in or near La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

La Fortuna is an established regional centre offering grocery stores, medical clinics, restaurants, banks, and essential services. Many residents choose the area for seasonal living due to its infrastructure and proximity to Arenal Volcano National Park.

The Arenal region has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging between 70°F and 85°F (21°C–29°C). The area experiences a defined dry season and green season, contributing to the region’s lush landscape.

Fibre-optic internet service is available within the community, and mobile coverage in the La Fortuna region is generally reliable through major Costa Rican providers.

Arenal Hills is located approximately 10 minutes from La Fortuna, providing convenient access to grocery stores, pharmacies, healthcare facilities, and dining options.

Travel & Access

Information on accessibility and transportation to the Arenal region.

Arenal Hills is accessible via both Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José and Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. The drive typically takes approximately three hours through established highway routes.

The route includes paved highways and mountain roads. While portions of the drive pass through highland terrain, the roads are established and navigable year-round. Private transfers and domestic charter options are also available.

Many residents choose to maintain a vehicle for convenience. Taxis and private transportation services are available locally.

La Fortuna is a well-established town with permanent residents, tourism infrastructure, and local law enforcement presence. As with any location, general awareness and standard precautions are recommended.

Community Standards & Ownership Structure

Information about how the Arenal Hills community operates.

No. Arenal Hills is a master-planned residential community designed for villa ownership rather than hotel-style operation.

All villas in Arenal Hills, with the exception of the Seville models can participate in the Arenal Hills AIRBNB rental program. Rental participation is optional and operates within established community standards.

Purchasing a villa at Arenal Hills is designed to be a clear and straightforward process, even for international buyers. From your initial enquiry through to completion, the Arenal Hills team will guide you through each stage — including selecting your villa, understanding timelines, and completing the necessary legal steps. Arenal Hills is a fully permitted condominium community, and each owner receives titled ownership, providing a secure and recognised structure for property ownership in Costa Rica. If you’d like to explore the process in more detail, the team can walk you through everything step-by-step and answer any questions specific to your situation.

The master plan includes 128 villas released in phases to support infrastructure and long-term community planning.

Owners may select from curated interior appointment packages that maintain architectural cohesion within the community.

Explore ownership at Arenal Hills

For serious buyers seeking international property where privacy meets long-term value. Our team is here to help you discover the villa that fits your special reserve.

Email: hello@arenalhills.com

Arenal Hills Sales Office
C. 474 50, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, 21007, Costa Rica
Tel: +506 8484 4642

Arenal Hills Florida Office
213 Della Ct. Spring Hill, FL 34606, US
Tel: +1 (844) 694 4557

Arenal Hills
Tres Esquinas, Los Ángeles, San Ramón, Alajuela, Costa Rica, 20208.

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