Choosing among the many Costa Rica real estate agents can be a tough decision, and how you choose your agent can be based on many different factors. One of the most important questions perspective buyers need to know the answer to is, “Is there licensing for Real Estate Agents in Costa Rica?”

Yes, there is licensing in Costa Rica for real estate agents; unfortunately, it is not a requirement by law, but we are working very hard to change that. The government of Costa Rica does not force real estate agents to be licensed, but they are very lax about most requirements in business.

Hair stylists don’t need a license and neither do massage therapists, personal trainers or most contractors. It is up to each industry to take control of their own destiny and change it, just like the USA did 50 or 60 years ago.

Fortunately, the government of Costa Rica is changing their ways. Recently, the country passed a law, that said ALL real estate agents and property managers MUST be registered by SUGEF, which is the banking authority that oversees all money transactions. Escrow agents and Money Management companies are registered with SUGEF as an example. The individual must be a permanent resident of Costa Rica, or a citizen of Costa Rica. They must have a background check done by the Costa Rica OIJ and a USA background check done by the FBI. Their bank accounts will be monitored by SUGEF as well as the banks themselves, and if a person receives a commission or handles third party funds, and they are not registered, their accounts will be immediately shut down.

I am truly a lucky man. I have met so many outstanding people, here in Costa Rica. I can honestly say I have thousands of friends.  Over the last 8 months, these fantastic human beings have stepped up and answered the call, when needed. It warms your heart to see how generous and giving they are, helping the local families in need, during these challenging times. Every day money keeps pouring in to allow us to continue feeding the locals, and time and time again, someone rises up to sponsor an entire day’s food drive. The best part is, it allows me to share with you some of the stories, of these magnificent folks, to give you an inside look at who and why so many have made Costa Rica, and the Papagayo region their home.

When I first met Victor and Doreen Bhatt, I knew right away we would be friends for a long time. They just have this incredible warmth, and sparkling sense of humor, that attracts people in. They are the type who truly care about you, they do not just ask for the sake of asking. They are a special couple with a fascinating life history and I immediately was drawn to them. Within a few minutes, I knew I was in for a ride.