For years, buying property in Costa Rica as a foreigner meant paying cash. While that approach worked for many investors, it also limited who could take part in the country’s thriving real estate market. Today, that’s changing. Thanks to an innovative financing solution introduced by Second Street, U.S. buyers can now access 30-year fixed-rate mortgages—the same kind of long-term, stable financing available back home.

In a recent conversation, Andrés Riggioni, Managing Partner at The Agency Costa Rica, and Zachary Kay, CEO of Second Street, described this development as a turning point for international buyers. They explained how new financing options are making homeownership in Costa Rica more accessible, strategic, and financially sound than ever before.  Read below or explore how to Finance your property in Costa Rica.

As Zack explains, “the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has almost never existed outside of the United States—until now.” This is a major development for U.S. citizens who love Costa Rica but have hesitated to invest due to the lack of familiar financing options.

With the ability to secure a fixed-rate mortgage, buyers can plan for the long term, lock in consistent payments, and diversify their investments without needing to liquidate assets or pay entirely in cash. This kind of stability not only enhances buyer confidence but also strengthens Costa Rica’s position as one of the most attractive international real estate markets for Americans.

Applying for a Second Street mortgage is designed to be quick and transparent. Prospective buyers simply visit mysecondstreet.com and click the blue “Pre-Qualify” button at the top right of the page. From there, they fill in basic information and are contacted by a loan officer, often within a day.
According to Zack, “Most of our pre-approvals take a day or two, and you can actually have a pre-approval letter in your hand saying you’re approved to borrow this amount to buy a house in Costa Rica.”

This letter is more than a formality: it’s a strategic tool. When buyers arrive in Costa Rica, pre-approved and ready to purchase, they can focus exclusively on homes within their actual budget. It also allows the buyer’s agent at The Agency Costa Rica to curate a selection of listings that match both their financial parameters and lifestyle goals.

Most international buyers spend only a limited time in the country when house-hunting, which makes preparation essential. By securing pre-approval before arrival, clients can use their visit efficiently, touring viable properties rather than exploring homes outside their range.
As Andrés summarizes in the interview, the process becomes seamless: by the time a buyer lands, their agent at The Agency Costa Rica already understands their purchasing power, preferred property type, and desired location, whether it’s a beachfront villa, a mountain retreat, or an urban condominium in San José.

This level of coordination saves time, removes uncertainty, and turns a complex international purchase into a smooth, guided experience.

As part of The Agency, a leading global real estate brand known for its boutique service and international network, The Agency Costa Rica offers clients deep local expertise backed by global standards. This new financing partnership with Second Street aligns perfectly with the company’s mission: empowering clients with the right tools, connections, and knowledge to make confident real estate decisions.
Whether buyers are looking for a second home, an investment property, or a full relocation to Costa Rica, The Agency’s team ensures each step, from financial planning to closing, is handled with care and precision.

This mortgage option marks a milestone for Costa Rica’s real estate market. U.S. buyers now have easier access to homeownership abroad. Financing creates flexibility for those investing in vacation or permanent homes. It also brings stability through predictable, long-term payment plans. The collaboration between The Agency Costa Rica and Second Street makes dreams more attainable. Together, they help transform aspiration into ownership.

For American buyers dreaming of a home in paradise, this is more than just good news: it’s a new beginning.