Mountain view
1 / 12This premium parcel in the Carara district of the Turrubares canton offers an exceptional foundation for your custom architectural vision in Costa Rica. Priced at USD 195000, the expansive 2,849 m² property features a fully prepared, level building terrace designed to maximize the sweeping, unobstructed views of the surrounding green mountain ranges. The land is ready for immediate development, with essential infrastructure already established, including reliable electrical connections, potable water service, and secure vehicular access. Positioned in the peaceful enclave of Tárcolitos, the property balances complete rural privacy with convenient proximity to the coastal hub of Jacó, the transit center of Orotina, and the capital city of San José.
For North American buyers, purchasing this land is straightforward, as Costa Rica permits full fee-simple ownership for international investors outside of restricted maritime concession zones. When planning your acquisition, anticipate transaction costs beyond the purchase price. Standard closing expenses encompass the property transfer stamp tax, which generally amounts to about 1.5% of the declared transaction value. Additionally, the comprehensive closing bundle—covering notary fees, registry filings, legal services, and documentary stamps—typically ranges between 2% and 4% of the final purchase price. Ongoing ownership costs are exceptionally manageable, with annual property taxes calculated directly from the registered cadastral value of the land. This pristine acreage represents a secure, high-potential investment in one of the most scenic and accessible regions of the Central Valley.
The strategic location of Tárcolitos, situated within the Carara district of the Turrubares canton in San José, Costa Rica, offers a distinct microclimate and lifestyle that bridges the gap between the lush Pacific coast and the temperate Central Valley. This 2,849-square-meter parcel sits in a peaceful mountain setting, yet it remains remarkably accessible. Future owners can easily drive to the bustling beach town of Jacó for surfing and coastal amenities, or head to Orotina for local markets and daily essentials. Furthermore, the property connects smoothly to the capital city of San José, making it an ideal base for remote workers, retirees, or those looking to buy property in Costa Rica as a long-term investment.
This region is rapidly gaining traction among North American buyers who compare it to established markets like Atenas Costa Rica homes or luxury Escazu homes. While those areas offer traditional Central Valley Costa Rica real estate appeal, Turrubares provides a more rustic, nature-focused alternative with sweeping mountain vistas and clean air. The local climate supports a healthy, outdoor-oriented lifestyle where residents can enjoy the presence of native bird species and lush green hillsides.
For buyers navigating the purchase process, Costa Rica offers favorable fee-simple ownership rights for foreigners, meaning you own the land outright just as you would in the United States or Canada. When budgeting for this one-hundred and ninety-five thousand dollar investment, buyers should account for local transaction costs. These include the property transfer stamp tax, which typically runs around 1.5% of the declared transaction value, alongside a closing bundle that covers notary fees, registry charges, and legal stamps, generally totaling between 2% and 4% of the purchase price. Additionally, a modest annual property tax is assessed based on the registered cadastral value of the land. This combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and secure ownership makes this Turrubares lot a standout choice for anyone looking to buy property Costa Rica.
Explore more about this area on our regional guide page.
This premium development lot in the Carara district of the Turrubares canton spans 2849 m² of highly usable land, offered at USD 195000. Positioned in the serene Tárcolitos area, the property features a fully prepared, spacious building terrace that is ready for construction. This graded building site provides a solid foundation for a custom residence, a mountain cabin, or a peaceful retirement retreat, all while showcasing panoramic views of the surrounding green mountains.
The property is equipped with essential infrastructure to facilitate immediate development, including direct access to potable water, reliable electricity, and excellent vehicular road access. The local climate remains comfortable throughout the year, offering a secure and private setting that is only a short drive from the coastal amenities of Jacó, the hub of Orotina, and the capital city of San José.
For international buyers, Costa Rica permits straightforward fee-simple land ownership. When purchasing this property, buyers should plan for standard closing costs, which typically encompass a property transfer stamp tax of approximately 1.5% of the declared transaction value, alongside notary fees, registry fees, and legal stamps that collectively average between 2% and 4% of the purchase price. Additionally, an annual property tax is assessed based on the registered cadastral value of the land.
Acquiring this 2,849-square-meter property in Turrubares is a straightforward process for North American buyers, as Costa Rica grants foreigners the same fee-simple ownership rights as citizens. Located outside the maritime zone, this parcel allows for direct, outright deed ownership. During the transaction, buyers should anticipate total closing costs—which bundle notary fees, land registry charges, legal services, and documentary stamps—to range between two and four percent of the purchase price. Additionally, the property transfer stamp tax typically accounts for about one and a half percent of the declared transaction value. Once the purchase is complete, the ongoing annual property tax is calculated directly from the registered cadastral value of the land. Because the purchase price of this mountain-view lot exceeds the national investment threshold, securing this real estate also positions you to apply for official residency-by-investment status in Costa Rica.
Review title types and due diligence in our fee simple vs concession guide.
This 2,849-square-meter lot in Tárcolitos presents a versatile acquisition for buyers targeting the Central Valley transition zone near Jacó and Turrubáres. Priced at $195,000, the property represents an entry point of approximately $68 per square meter. This positioning is highly competitive for land that already features a prepared construction terrace with mountain views and active utility connections for electricity and potable water.
The ideal buyer profile includes North American expatriates seeking to build a custom primary residence, or investors looking to construct a main home with independent guest casitas to capture the regional rental market. Because the property sits near Carara, short-term rentals can target eco-tourists seeking birdwatching and mountain privacy, while the proximity to San José and Orotina supports long-term rental demand from professionals.
For transaction planning, foreign buyers enjoy secure, fee-simple ownership rights identical to Costa Rican citizens. Buyers should budget for a property transfer stamp tax of approximately 1.5% of the declared transaction value, alongside a comprehensive closing bundle covering notary, registry, and legal fees that typically ranges from 2% to 4% of the purchase price. Ongoing holding costs are minimized by an annual municipal property tax calculated directly from the registered cadastral value. With land values rising as infrastructure connects the Central Valley to the Pacific coast, this parcel offers a clear exit strategy through future resale of a completed residential estate.
Model rental income for this property with our rental income calculator.
Embracing the lifestyle of this unique region means finding a harmonious balance between absolute tranquility and effortless connection to the best of Costa Rica. Tárcolitos, nestled within the scenic embrace of the Turrubáres region, offers a rare sanctuary where the frantic pace of modern life melts away, replaced by the soothing rhythms of the natural world. Here, your morning routine is elevated by the gentle rustle of tropical breezes through the canopy and the vibrant chorus of exotic birds echoing across the valley. This is a place where you can truly breathe, surrounded by the lush, verdant mountains of the Central Valley, while knowing that the vibrant energy of the Pacific coast is just a short drive away. It appeals directly to the visionary buyer—the individual who refuses to compromise on privacy but still demands convenient access to world-class surfing, coastal dining, and modern amenities. Whether you picture yourself hosting sunset gatherings on a custom-designed deck overlooking the peaks, cultivating a private organic garden in the rich volcanic soil, or simply enjoying the cool mountain air after a day at the beach, this property serves as the ultimate canvas for your aspirations. It represents more than just a real estate transaction; it is an invitation to curate a life of wellness, adventure, and peace. For retirees seeking a secure and scenic haven, families looking to establish a legacy estate, or remote professionals desiring an inspiring backdrop for their daily endeavors, this location delivers an unparalleled quality of life. By securing this exceptional parcel, you are not merely purchasing land—you are investing in a daily experience of natural luxury, where the majestic beauty of Carara and the convenience of nearby coastal hubs converge to create a lifestyle that most only ever dream of achieving.
Principal broker

In Costa Rica since 2004
Principal broker

In Costa Rica since 2004
Carara, Turrubares, San José