Blog
Notes from the field.
Practical articles on permits, costs, design and the reality of building in Costa Rica.
Categories
Construction
Featured · April 15, 2026 · 7 min
Construction material prices in Costa Rica: 2026 outlook
Cement, steel and timber: how prices are moving and what to expect for the rest of the year.
Read article →Design
April 5, 2026 · 9 min
Concrete vs. steel frame: which one to choose
An honest comparison of costs, timelines, seismic performance and design possibilities.
Investment
March 28, 2026 · 5 min
Corner lots: real advantages and things to consider before buying
More frontage and dual access sound great, but setbacks and easements can reshape your whole project.
Construction
March 20, 2026 · 6 min
Tile vs. sheet metal vs. concrete: the best roof for Costa Rica
Rain, sun, wind and budget: the four factors that should guide your decision.
Permits
March 12, 2026 · 6 min
Municipal permits in Costa Rica: 2026 quick guide
The essentials on plan approvals, CFIA requirements and typical timelines per district.
Construction
March 10, 2026 · 5 min
What exactly is included in shell construction?
Many projects are quoted at shell level, but what's actually included varies widely between contractors.
Design
March 1, 2026 · 8 min
Bioclimatic design in the tropics: using nature before switching on the AC
Orientation, cross-ventilation and well-calculated overhangs can eliminate air conditioning from your project.