Build a House in Costa Rica: Your Dream of a Hangar Home in Paradise

Build a house in Costa Rica — it’s a dream many people share when they search for Costa Rica lots for sale. The idea of creating your own tropical home is exciting, but the process can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. At Airpark Samara, we guide you step by step so that building your home in Costa Rica becomes realistic, achievable, and stress-free.

• 1. Land and Legal Basics
• 2. Building Permits and Utilities
• 3. Costa Rica Home Builders and Architects
• 4. Cost to Build a Home and Timelines
• 5. Building From Abroad

1. Land and Legal Basics to Build a House in Costa Rica

A common misconception is that you can only build on agricultural land if you buy a full five-hectare farm. In reality, the law also allows subdivisions of at least 5,000 square meters, or about 1.25 acres, which is the exact size of the lots at Airpark Samara. On these spacious parcels you are permitted to build one main home with connected spaces such as a terrace, guest suite, pool, or hangar. To meet local regulations, it is best to design everything as a single structure — for example, a hangar home where the living areas, pool, and hangar are part of one construction.

For more background on land use rules, see the National Institute of Housing and Urbanism (INVU)

2. Building Permits and Utilities in Costa Rica

No matter where you build in Costa Rica, you will need a building permit from the local municipality. To apply, you must work with a registered architect or engineer who will prepare your plans, provide structural drawings, and submit the application. In addition, you need proof of legal access to water (the so-called carta de agua) and electricity.

At Airpark Samara we already have a reliable natural water source on the property, and an official connection to AyA/ASADA is in process. Electricity is currently available on the riverside lots and will be extended across the rest of the airpark. These are essential steps in the building process, and we guide you through them so you know exactly what to expect.

For official permit standards, check the Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y de Arquitectos (CFIA).

3. Costa Rica Home Builders and Architects You Can Trust

For foreigners, one of the biggest concerns is how to find trustworthy builders in Costa Rica. The reality is that quality and reliability can vary, which makes careful selection essential.

Over the years, we have built a network of trusted Costa Rica home builders and architects who understand the technical requirements of the municipality as well as the unique challenges of building in a tropical climate. Many of our buyers explore creative designs such as hangar homes in Costa Rica, which seamlessly combine living space and aircraft storage in one stylish building. We connect you with these professionals and, more importantly, we are present on the ground to oversee the work — so you don’t have to worry about the quality of your project while you are abroad.

4. Cost to Build a Home in Costa Rica and Timelines

One of the first questions most people ask is: How much does it cost to build a house in Costa Rica? The answer depends on the size of your home, the finishes you choose, and the location. As a general rule, a simple tropical-style house with basic finishes starts at around $850 per square meter. A mid-range home that includes features like a pool and higher-quality materials usually falls between $1,000 and $1,200 per square meter. For larger custom villas with imported finishes or luxury details, the cost can be $1,200 or more per square meter.

Home type	Approx. cost per m²	Typical features
Basic tropical home	$850	Simple finishes, functional design
Mid-range home	$1,000 – $1,200	Includes pool, higher-quality materials
Luxury villa	$1,200+	Custom design, imported finishes, large terraces

Beyond construction, it is important to budget for other expenses such as the installation of a septic system, landscaping, access roads or driveways, and the furnishing of your home. Pools and outdoor terraces also add to the total, but for many people they are an essential part of Costa Rica living. Please note that indirect costs such as professional fees, municipal taxes, insurance, and contributions to the College of Engineers and Architects are not included, as these depend on the total cost of the project.

Most projects are completed within six to twelve months, depending on the complexity of the design, the permitting process, and seasonal weather conditions. With the right planning and local support, it is possible to build a house in Costa Rica on budget and move in within a year.

For comparison, see this cost breakdown by Two Weeks in Costa Rica.

5. Building a House in Costa Rica From Abroad

Many of our buyers live in the United States, Canada, or Europe during the construction phase. Understandably, they often ask: How can I build a home in Costa Rica if I am not there to supervise?

This is where Airpark Samara makes the difference. We provide regular updates with photos and videos, we coordinate with builders and architects, and we stay in close contact with the local municipality. You remain involved in the key decisions, while we handle the day-to-day management. With this level of building support in Costa Rica, you can confidently build a house in Costa Rica even while living abroad.

From Concerns to Confidence

Airpark Samara offers 1.25-acre lots in a gated community with a private airstrip. For pilots, this means the opportunity to design a hangar home with direct access to the runway. For nature lovers, it means privacy, space, and a safe community close to the beach. Many of our residents also enjoy creating their own edible gardens, simply because it’s possible here. Growing fruits, vegetables, and herbs on your own land is part of the healthy, sustainable lifestyle that makes Costa Rica so unique.

Most importantly, you will never face the process alone. From choosing the right architect to securing permits and working with builders, we guide you every step of the way.

Buying land and building abroad often feels overwhelming, but it does not have to be. With the right support, the process becomes transparent and manageable. At Airpark Samara, we help you avoid the typical obstacles and connect you with the people and knowledge you need to make your dream home a reality. Whether it is a hangar home next to the runway or a private retreat with a pool, you can build a house in Costa Rica with peace of mind when guided by Airpark Samara.

Curious to learn more?

Check our homepage for the date of the next Live Q&A about building a house in Costa Rica and join us to ask your questions directly. Or feel free to reach out to us anytime — we’re happy to answer your questions and guide you through the next steps.

Written at 31st August 2025 – This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. No rights can be derived from its content.