Importing a car versus buying a car in Costa Rica
 

My husband and I just purchased a home in CR and plan on living there full time. I have a question about bringing in versus buying a vehicle in CR and the fee and import taxes. Which is the best idea? Anyone out there that can guide me to a site that would answer my question??

A simple Google search for "Buying a car in Costa Rica"

brings up

http://www.therealcostarica.com/movi...g_buy_car.html

which seems to be the answer to the question you asked.

This site (the real costa rica) is packed with useful information, by the way.

Most people agree that it can go either way. A lot depends on what kind of car you are looking for and where you live. I usually recommend asking your neighbors who is the best mechanic in your area and then ask him what he would recommend for a car. I bought a used car from a local guy last year and it has been great and he has been great, answering questions, etc. If you are thinking about doing this, have your mechanic check over the car for you.

Cars are more expensive here, mainly due to the 50% import tax. I paid about $5500 for a car that was rated on the Edmund's site at $2000 to $3000.

The Real Costa Rica is a great website and you might look in at the ARCR forums - there has been lots of discussion about this very subject.

I agree with hsmither. Check out www.arcr.net and for fun look at www.boomersoffshore.com Good info at both sites.

Thanks for all the great guidance!!