How to avoid scams
Our automatic moderator screens every listing and our team reviews those with warning signs. But the best protection is a few simple rules.
Never pay a deposit remotely
No honest seller requires a reservation fee, deposit or “paperwork fee” before a visit. It is the most common scam, especially with rentals.
Always see the property or vehicle in person
Visit the land, house or car with the seller. Be wary of an owner “abroad” who will courier the keys.
Close through a Costa Rican lawyer or notary
In Costa Rica, property and vehicle sales are done before a notary, who checks the registry and records the sale. Pick your own lawyer, not one the seller insists on.
Check the Registro Nacional
The folio real (finca) number and cadastral plan let you check the owner, liens and easements. For a vehicle, the plate lets you check the owner, fines and liens.
Beware of rights of possession and the maritime zone
Untitled land (derechos de posesión) or a concession in the maritime-terrestrial zone (200 m from high tide) requires thorough legal checks.
Be wary of prices that are too low
A price far below market, strong urgency or a touching backstory are classic scam signals.
Never pay with gift cards, crypto or wire services
Western Union, MoneyGram, gift cards, crypto, a “shipping agent” or an “escrow service” suggested by the seller are scam signs.
Report suspicious listings
Use the “Report this listing” button. After several reports, the listing is hidden until we review it.
The money for a sale never goes through La Venta Tica. The only payments on the site are for our own services (featuring, verification, translator), on a payment page of the site with an LC- reference. If anyone asks you to pay for an item or a deposit “through La Venta Tica”, it is a scam.