Selling Success

How to Get Your Home Ready for Sale & Sold in Costa Rica

By Melissa Klassen

A good realtor help you buy or sell a home. A great realtor protects your interests, anticipates your needs, and delivers results you didn’t think were possible.

Price your home correctly.

If your goal is to sell your home for top dollar in the current market in the shortest period of time, this first point is critical . Pricing correctly from the beginning is paramount. An overpriced listing will cost precious. time & when it does sell, after months and reductions along the way, you will end up with less in your pocket then if it was priced correctly from the launch. Today’s buyers are savvy & view dozens of homes online before even arriving to

Costa Rica. They will seek out homes within their true price range to see, view and then purchase. Be sure you are receiving good counsel to make the best pricing decision.

First Impressions Start at the Gate

Your home’s exterior sets the tone for everything else. In Costa Rica, where lush vegetation grows quickly, a little maintenance goes a long way.

Trim overgrown plants, keep grass around your home short and remove fallen leaves , branches and coconuts. Tropical flowers like hibiscus or bougainvillea add instant curb appeal. Maintain pathways: Power wash and repair driveways, gates, and walkways. Replace torn screens, Be sure there is no mold on the walls or ceiling. The house should be well ventilated, smelling clean and fresh.

Declutter and Depersonalize

International buyers want to imagine themselves in the space.

Declutter: Remove excess furniture, knick-knacks, and anything that makes spaces feel cramped. Highlight spaces that can serve multiple purposes, such as a guest room that doubles as an office. Less is more.

Highlight Tropical Living Features

Costa Rica’s appeal is lifestyle-driven. Make sure buyers can picture the pura vida life. Stage outdoor areas with comfortable seating and/or a barbecue area. Showcase views, gardens, or proximity to nature.

Emphasize eco-friendly features like solar panels, rainwater collection, or natural ventilation.

Address the Essentials

Even in paradise, practicality matters.

Plumbing & electrical: Ensure all systems are in working order and up to code, Roof & gutters: Check for leaks and clear debris, especially during the rainy season. Be sure your roof is cleaned & rust free and, if a metal roof, have it painted before listing (drone photos are essential today, and you want them to show your roof is maintained. Look at your railings around the house and on balconies, have all the rust removed and repaint where needed..

Treat for insects and rodents. Buyers should arrive with a sense of welcome, not a list of repairs.

Choose the Right Agent

Partnering with a knowledgeable local real estate agent can make all the difference. Look for agents experienced in selling to both local and international buyers with a proven track record. Ensure they can market your property through global real estate networks and that they offer top quality photos and videos to showcase your property online. Choose someone that knows your market, takes time to understand your goals and how to make them happen. Lastly, be sure to choose someone you connect with well and who will not just manage a transaction, but create an experience worth remembering.

Final Thought:

Remember this is a market where buyers often come seeking a dream. These proven strategies create the opportunities for a profitable sale, in the shortest time possible.

Melissa Klassen is an associate broker with Blue Zone Realty International, with over a decade of experience helping clients find their ideal home in Costa Rica. Contact her at melissa@bluezonerealty.com or 8882-0009 phone/WhatsApp for expert assistance.