When considering moving to Costa Rica, you must be aware of potential scams that could spoil your experience. Like any country, Costa Rica has its share of unscrupulous individuals looking to take advantage of newcomers unfamiliar with local customs, legal procedures, or standard business practices. Whether navigating the real estate market, setting up services, or making large purchases, being new to the country can sometimes make you a scam target.
But here’s the good news: with some knowledge and preparation, you can avoid the most common scams and protect yourself and your finances. Costa Rica is an incredible place to live; being aware of potential pitfalls will help ensure your transition is smooth and surprises-free. By staying cautious, doing your research, and working with trusted professionals, you’ll be able to enjoy everything Costa Rica has to offer without falling victim to shady schemes.
So, what should you be on the lookout for if you’re moving to Costa Rica? Here’s a breakdown of common scams to help you stay safe and secure during your move.
1. Real Estate Scams
Many people moving to Costa Rica are excited about buying a home, but this is also where one of the most common scams can occur. Some individuals may claim ownership of land or property they don’t have the legal right to sell. In other cases, buyers might be pressured into paying far more than the property’s actual value without realizing it until it’s too late.
To avoid these pitfalls, working with a reputable real estate agent who is experienced in helping expats is crucial. Always verify the property’s ownership and legal status by seeking proper legal assistance before signing any documents. And never pay large sums of money upfront without thoroughly reviewing all the official paperwork to ensure everything is legitimate.
2. Rental Scams
If buying property isn’t in your immediate plans, you might consider renting when moving to Costa Rica. Be especially cautious with online listings, particularly those that request large deposits, before you’ve had a chance to see the property. Some scammers post fake rental ads or ask for payments through untraceable methods like Western Union, making it difficult to recover your money if things go wrong.
To protect yourself, always verify that the property exists by visiting in person or having a trusted contact inspect it. Additionally, only hand over large sums of money with a formal rental agreement to ensure everything is legitimate and secure.
3. Vehicle Scams
Another common scam targets people looking to buy vehicles in Costa Rica. If you’re moving to Costa Rica and want to own a car, be cautious of sellers who try to offload vehicles with hidden damage or stolen cars with falsified paperwork. Without the proper background checks, you could end up with a vehicle that’s more trouble than it’s worth.
To avoid falling victim to a vehicle scam, always have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic before making any commitments. Additionally, double-check that all the legal paperwork, such as the title, registration, and vehicle history, is in order. Taking these steps ensures that your purchase is safe and legitimate so you can drive with peace of mind.
4. Fake Services or Tour Operators
Costa Rica is known for its incredible tourist attractions, but some scammers take advantage of this by setting up fake tour companies. They lure tourists and expats with promises of discounted or exclusive tours, only for you to discover the tours don’t exist after you’ve paid.
If you’re moving to Costa Rica and want to avoid this, always book tours through reputable companies and, when in doubt, ask for recommendations from trusted locals or expat communities. This ensures you enjoy the real Costa Rica without any unpleasant surprises.
5. ATM and Credit Card Fraud
Just like anywhere else, if you’re moving to Costa Rica, you need to be cautious when using your credit card or withdrawing money from ATMs. Skimming devices can be attached to ATMs to steal your card information, and fraudsters may clone your card after you make purchases at less reliable places. This can lead to unauthorized charges that are difficult to resolve, especially abroad.
To protect yourself, stick to ATMs in well-lit, secure areas like banks, and keep a close eye on your bank statements for unusual transactions. Avoid using your card at street vendors or unsecured locations, and use cash for smaller purchases if possible. These precautions can help keep your finances safe while you enjoy Costa Rica.
While the vast majority of people you’ll meet when moving to Costa Rica are friendly and honest, being aware of potential scams will help you avoid unpleasant situations. By working with reputable professionals, staying cautious about large financial transactions, and researching, you’ll protect yourself and ensure your move is smooth and enjoyable.
Costa Rica is a beautiful country, full of opportunities and adventures. With just a little caution, you can fully enjoy your new life here without being taken advantage of.
If you’re ready to make the move and want to ensure everything goes smoothly, I can help. From finding a trusted realtor to navigating the residency process, I’ll guide you every step of the way so you can focus on starting your new life in paradise. Reach out today, and let’s get you moving to Costa Rica stress-free and with confidence.