We build land-to-keys across the Nicoya Peninsula, so these aren't internet numbers — they're the ranges we quote. Pick a size and finish level, tell us about the terrain, and see the realistic all-in figure including design, permits and contingency.
Per-square-meter teaser rates online usually exclude design, permits, infrastructure and contingency — the difference between the teaser and reality is often 25–35%. Our estimator includes all of it. The questions we hear most:
The hard build: structure, roofing, walls, floors, electrical, plumbing, windows/doors, kitchens and baths at the chosen finish level. Design fees, permits, raw-lot infrastructure, pools and contingency are itemized separately — which is exactly how a real quote should read.
A 200–300 m² home typically runs 10–14 months from approved design to keys, including permitting. Larger or steep-lot projects run longer. Building in the dry season (Dec–Apr) for foundations helps the schedule.
Plans must be stamped by the CFIA (the national engineers' and architects' college) and approved by the municipality; environmental (SETENA) viability applies to many coastal lots. Budget roughly 1.5–2.5% of the build cost for permits and stamps — included in our estimate.
Yes — that's our model. Real Estate Grupo sources the land, verifies water and zoning before you buy, then designs and builds in-house. One accountable team from lot to keys, which is also how our 0% owner-financed land+build packages work.
Often 15–30% cheaper per m² for equivalent quality, plus you get exactly the home you want. The trade-off is time. If your timeline is under 6 months, buying turnkey usually wins; over a year, building usually wins.