Paying safely in Costa Rica: SINPE, bank transfer and escrow

Most classified-ad scams involve payment. These simple rules protect both buyer and seller.

For property: escrow and notary

For large amounts, use an escrow account or pay on the day of signing before the notary. The money is only released to the seller once the sale is signed and registered.

SINPE Móvil and transfers

SINPE Móvil is instant and convenient, but a payment cannot be reversed once sent. Use it for moderate amounts and only after seeing the item. For large amounts, prefer a bank transfer with a receipt.

Beware of fake receipts

A screenshot of a transfer proves nothing: always check in your banking app that the money has arrived before handing over a car or the keys.

The most common scams

A deposit to "reserve" something you have not seen; a seller who claims to be abroad; a buyer who "overpays" and asks you to refund the difference; or someone asking for a code you received by text. In every case: do not pay, and report it.

On La Venta Tica

Sale money never goes through the site. We only charge for our own options (featuring a listing, extra photos, translator), with a reference and a receipt.