Private property-backed financing for Costa Rica real estate.
When traditional bank financing is not available, GAP Equity Loans provides bridge loans and equity loans backed by Costa Rica property — from $50,000 USD, with decisions in days, not months.
Up to 50% LTV
12–16% annual interest
Close in ~10 business days
Traditional banks rarely work for foreign buyers. Private lending does.
Costa Rican state banks and cooperatives rarely lend to non-residents. The documentation requirements, local credit history requirements, and approval timelines (often 6–12 months) make traditional financing nearly impossible for most international buyers. Even long-term residents frequently find bank financing slow and uncertain.
Private lenders like GAP Equity Loans operate on a property-value basis — the loan is secured by the Costa Rica real estate, and decisions are made based on the property and the exit strategy, not a foreign credit score.
Who private financing works for
- Buyers who need to close quickly before cash arrives
- Property owners pulling equity out for renovations or investment
- Buyers bridging while longer-term financing is arranged
- Investors who want leverage on an income-producing property
- Owners needing funds for a property-related business opportunity
Types of financing available through Grupo GAP
Purchase bridge financing
Short-term loan secured by the property being purchased. Ideal for buyers who have the funds coming but need to close now. Terms from 6 to 36 months.
- LTV: up to 50% of appraised value
- Rate: 12–16% annually
- Term: 6–36 months
- Close in approximately 10 business days
- Interest-only payments available
Property equity loan
Borrow against equity in a property you already own in Costa Rica. Use the funds for renovations, investment, or any purpose. Property must have clear titled ownership.
- LTV: up to 50% of appraised value
- Rate: 12–16% annually
- Term: 6–36 months
- First-lien position on title
- Monthly interest payments
Improvement financing
Add a bedroom, pool, solar system, or income-generating unit to an existing property. The improved property value supports the loan — turn your home into an income producer.
- Based on post-improvement appraised value
- Rate: 12–16% annually
- Term: 6–36 months
- Staged draws available for construction
- Property must have clear titled status
The GAP Equity Loans process
Initial inquiry
Submit the property address, your loan amount request, and your planned use of funds through GAP Equity Loans. The initial review typically takes 24–48 hours. No credit check at this stage — the review focuses on the property and the request.
Property appraisal
A licensed Costa Rican appraiser (perito) conducts an independent valuation of the property. The appraisal determines the maximum loan amount — typically up to 50% of appraised value. The borrower typically covers the appraisal cost (~$300–$600 USD).
Title and legal review
GAP’s attorney verifies clear title, checks for liens and annotations in the Registro Nacional, and confirms the property is in a lendable position. This takes 3–5 business days.
Term sheet and agreement
GAP issues a formal term sheet specifying the loan amount, interest rate, term, payment schedule, and closing requirements. Both parties review and agree before proceeding to closing.
Closing and fund disbursement
The mortgage (hipoteca) is registered against the property title at the Registro Nacional. Funds are disbursed upon completion of registration. Total time from inquiry to funding: approximately 10 business days for straightforward cases.
Common financing questions
Do I need to be a Costa Rica resident to qualify?
No residency is required for equity loans on property you already own in Costa Rica. For purchase bridge loans used to close on a property, note that some restrictions apply — GAP Equity Loans will clarify the current requirements during the inquiry stage.
What property types qualify as collateral?
Titled residential property (homes, condominiums, lots) and titled commercial property are the primary collateral types. Maritime zone concession property and agricultural land with complex legal status are evaluated case-by-case. The property must have a clear, lien-free title at the Registro Nacional.
What is the maximum loan-to-value?
GAP typically lends up to 50% of the independently appraised value. In some cases with very strong collateral, up to 65% LTV may be available. The appraisal is conducted by an independent licensed appraiser — GAP does not self-appraise.
Are the interest payments monthly?
Yes. Most GAP loans are structured with monthly interest-only payments, with the principal returned at the end of the term. Some loans are structured with a partial amortization. The specific payment structure is documented in the term sheet.
What happens if I cannot repay at maturity?
GAP works with borrowers to extend terms or restructure when there is a credible path to repayment. If the loan cannot be resolved, the mortgage allows GAP (as lender) to initiate a judicial foreclosure process under Costa Rican law. This is not GAP’s preferred outcome and is treated as a last resort after all other options are exhausted.
Talk to GAP Equity Loans about your property situation.
Whether you need to bridge a purchase, pull equity, or fund renovations — start with a conversation. GAP will tell you quickly whether your situation qualifies.
GAP Real Estate — Powered by Grupo GAP Financing
Bridge Your Purchase
Have most of the price? We cover the rest — from $50,000 USD, property-backed, ~10 days to close.
Permanent residency required for foreigners.
Improve Your Property
Add a bedroom, pool, or solar system — turn your new property into an income producer. From $50K, 6–36 month terms.