Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
In an ever-changing world, the growing interest from international investors in Costa Rica’s luxury real estate market reflects the country’s appeal for its picturesque landscapes and political stability.
Female clients, often influential and well-informed, play a crucial role in this sector, with their demand focused on properties that combine luxury, sustainability, and security.
Through well-defined selection criteria, such as proximity to nature and modern amenities, they influence market trends, pushing developers to be at the forefront of architectural and environmental innovations.
Far from traditional stereotypes, these women with diverse aspirations are redefining what it truly means to live in Costa Rica’s tropical paradise.
Understanding the Concerns of Women Investors in Costa Rica
Women investors in Costa Rica’s luxury real estate see their decisions influenced by a combination of economic and social factors specific to the local context.
Economic and Social Factors Influencing Decisions
- Political and Economic Stability: Costa Rica is recognized for its democratic stability and continuous economic growth, creating an attractive and secure environment for luxury real estate investment.
- International Openness: A dynamic market, supported by interest from international buyers and diverse investor profiles, facilitates access to exceptional properties and stimulates competition.
- Evolution of Women’s Social Status: The increase in female representation among investors is accompanied by a desire for financial independence and greater engagement in professional networks.
Recent Statistics on Female Participation
- In 2024, the share of women in luxury real estate transactions in Costa Rica saw notable growth, representing about 30% of new investors in this segment, compared to less than 20% five years ago.
- This increase is mainly observed in coastal regions (Nosara, Jacó, Tamarindo), where women actively participate both as buyers and developers.
Selection Criteria Favored by Women Investors
| Criterion | Description |
|---|---|
| Security | Preference for residences in gated communities, advanced surveillance systems, proximity to emergency services. |
| Location | Search for properties near beaches, protected natural areas, or in sought-after and quiet neighborhoods. |
| Sustainability | Marked interest in eco-friendly construction, sustainable materials, energy and water management, green certifications. |
| Luxury Amenities | Wellness spaces, infinity pools, concierge services, private spas, access to exclusive clubs. |
Particularly Sought-After Aspects
- Privacy and confidentiality of properties.
- Modern technological infrastructure (home automation, high-speed internet).
- Personalized services (high-end rental management, maintenance, 24/7 security).
Strategies Adopted by Local Women Investors
- Investment Diversification: Local developers focus on high-end seasonal rentals (Airbnb, long-term stays) to make their acquisitions profitable while meeting international demand.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaboration with specialized real estate management agencies, optimizing property visibility and service quality.
- Continuing Education: Participation in seminars and workshops on wealth management and women’s leadership to strengthen skills and networks.
- Emphasis on Eco-Responsibility: Some investors are turning to ecovillage and ecolodge projects, combining profitability with positive impact on the local environment.
Networks and Support Initiatives for Women in Real Estate Investment
- Women’s Investment Clubs: Groups dedicated to sharing experiences, mentoring, and connecting with industry experts.
- Training Programs: Local and international initiatives offering specific modules on real estate investment, negotiation, and project management.
- Partnerships with Financial Institutions: Agreements with banks or microfinance institutions facilitating credit access for women entrepreneurs in real estate.
- Networking Events: Annual conferences, forums, and specialized webinars bringing together players in the luxury real estate market.
Women investors in Costa Rica are now establishing themselves as major players in the luxury real estate market, prioritizing security, sustainability, and innovation, while relying on dynamic networks and tailored strategies to overcome sector-specific challenges.
Good to Know:
In Costa Rica, women make up about 35% of investors in luxury real estate, and they place particular importance on factors such as security, ideal location, and construction sustainability, which influence their purchasing decisions. Developers like Mariela Soto often opt for eco-friendly construction to attract this segment, aligning with global sustainability trends. Another major challenge remains access to support networks; initiatives like Mujeres Inversoras encourage information exchange and facilitate connections among women investors, creating a favorable environment to overcome economic or social obstacles.
The Importance of Security for Women’s Residences
Security is a primary criterion for women’s residences in Costa Rica’s luxury real estate sector, meeting specific and growing expectations from female buyers.
Key Advanced Security Measures Sought by Women:
- 24/7 Surveillance by cameras and dedicated personnel, ensuring constant monitoring of access points and common areas.
- Access Control Systems (electronic badges, keypads, biometric recognition) allowing precise management of entry to residences and private areas.
- Professional Security Guards, trained in incident management and present continuously or on regular patrol.
Comparison Table of Common Devices in Luxury Properties in Costa Rica:
| Device | Main Function | Key Advantage for Female Residents |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 Video Surveillance | Deterrence & evidence in case of incident | Increased sense of protection |
| Secure Access Control | Strict limitation to authorized persons | Prevention against intrusions |
| Human Presence | Immediate responsiveness | Rapid intervention in emergencies |
Secure location is also crucial. A neighborhood known for its tranquility significantly reduces the risk of incidents. In Costa Rica, certain gated communities are particularly favored by an international female clientele seeking discretion, calm, and reliability. The neighborhood’s reputation directly influences the perception of daily well-being.
Studies & Statistics on Security Perception:
- According to several international studies conducted among potential high-end female buyers (notably Knight Frank Wealth Report), over 70% rank security as the number one criterion when choosing real estate.
- Local surveys indicate that nearly 80% of foreign women investors prefer a residential environment offering strict access control and a homogeneous neighborhood.
- The specific demand for enhanced surveillance is even more pronounced among women living alone or with children.
These measures directly contribute to:
- Peace of mind, allowing residents a serene daily life without fear related to physical or material insecurity.
- Overall well-being, fostered by a constant sense of control over one’s domestic environment.
Impact on Real Estate Attractiveness:
- Properties with innovative security solutions see their market value increase significantly (up to +15% according to some developers).
- The limited supply in highly protected neighborhoods creates scarcity that reinforces interest among wealthy international female audiences.
Concrete Examples in Costa Rica:
| Residence / Estate | Highlighted Security Solutions |
|---|---|
| Santa Teresa House | Gated community; restricted access; permanent guarding; video surveillance |
| Private Subdivisions San José/Heredia | Automatic gates; night patrols; systematic visitor controls |
Ultra-luxury ecological communities often integrate these standards while ensuring privacy and harmony with nature: only a few hectares are built so that each villa benefits not only from tranquility but also excellent peripheral visibility.
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The wise choice of a secure home thus represents both a patrimonial asset and an invaluable guarantee for the daily psychological comfort of demanding female residents.
Good to Know:
In Costa Rica’s luxury real estate sector, security is a priority for women, who favor residences offering 24/7 surveillance, secure access control systems, and qualified security guards. Location also plays a crucial role; well-reputed neighborhoods increase the perception of security and are particularly attractive to women investors. According to studies, 85% of potential luxury property buyers consider security an essential criterion, directly influencing the value and attractiveness of real estate. For example, some high-end residences in Santa Ana and Escazú integrate advanced technologies such as facial recognition cameras and in-house security teams, offering greater peace of mind and enhancing residents’ overall well-being. These measures, besides being reassuring, also add significant value to real estate assets, emphasizing both comfort and serenity for inhabitants.
Women’s Architecture: Meeting Aesthetic Expectations
Women’s architecture in Costa Rica’s luxury real estate sector meets precise aesthetic expectations, drawing inspiration from contemporary trends that place well-being, connection to nature, and sophistication at the heart of projects.
Current Architectural Trends Favored by a Female Clientele:
- Tropical modernism: open spaces, natural materials, fluid transition between interior and exterior.
- Biophilic design: integration of vegetation, indoor gardens, living walls, abundant natural light.
- Sustainable elegance: choice of noble and local materials, attention to durability and environmental respect.
- Comfort and texture: use of soft textiles, natural finishes, ergonomic furniture.
Design Elements Meeting Women’s Aesthetic Preferences:
- Natural Materials: local stone, solid wood, bamboo, terracotta bricks.
- Enhancement of Natural Light: oversized picture windows, skylights, thoughtful room orientation.
- Integration of Vegetation: landscaped patios, tree-lined terraces, living walls, hanging gardens.
Creating Spaces Fostering Well-being and Serenity:
- Meditation or yoga spaces, reading nooks bathed in light.
- Spa-inspired bathrooms with nature views.
- Infinity pools, shaded terraces, protected outdoor lounges.
- Fluid circulation between living spaces, promoting a calming atmosphere.
Balance Between Functionality and Aesthetics:
Women seek spaces where beauty never sacrifices practicality.
- Integrated and discreet storage, kitchen open to the outdoors, multifunctional furniture.
- Modular layout plans, allowing easy adaptation to evolving needs.
| Key Element | Aesthetic Expectation | Architectural Response |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Light | Clarity, softness | Large picture windows, skylights |
| Natural Materials | Authenticity, warmth | Wood, stone, bamboo, terracotta |
| Integrated Vegetation | Connection to nature | Indoor gardens, planted terraces |
| Spatial Fluidity | Serenity, well-being | Open spaces, seamless circulation |
| Functionality | Practicality, adaptability | Integrated storage, modular furniture |
Examples of Projects Embodying This Philosophy in Costa Rica:
- Villas in the Santa Teresa region blending green roofs, raw stone walls, and vast panoramic terraces.
- Residences in Nosara prioritizing the use of local wood and complete openness to the surrounding jungle.
- Projects in Escazú signed by architects like Elemento Diseño, emphasizing sustainable elegance and integration of tropical patios.
Women’s architecture in Costa Rica combines aesthetics, well-being, and respect for nature, thus offering living spaces that celebrate beauty, functionality, and inner harmony.
Good to Know:
In Costa Rica, women’s architecture in luxury real estate appeals through trends focused on clean and harmonious designs, highly prized by the female clientele. Architects integrate natural materials, such as wood and stone, and maximize natural light through generous picture windows, while abundantly incorporating local vegetation, creating inspiring and serene spaces. The importance of emotional well-being is considered through layouts that promote relaxation, both in interior rooms such as domestic spas, and in harmonious exteriors including zen gardens and infinity pools. The balance between aesthetics and functionality is crucial, with iconic properties like those in the Santa Teresa region, which combine luxury and practicality, thus meeting the specific expectations of this clientele.
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Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
