Why should I consider a property investment in Nicaragua?

Nicaragua is bouncing back from its troubled and often misunderstood past. It now has a growing economy and stable government since 1990. Nicaragua boasts a rich cultural heritage, beautiful scenery, incredible biodiversity, lakes and volcanoes and an ever growing range of leisure activities.

The real estate market

  • Property prices start very low but are increasing. Developments are springing up along the Pacific coast, in San Juan del Sur, historical Granada and the Great Lakes (Laguna de Apoyo and Mombacho). The sales rate slowed in late 2008 and into 2009 following the global economic crisis but the country has not experienced the across-the-board, double-digit falls seen in parts of the developed world. The market has come back strongly in late 2012 and into 2013, particularly among the so called "lifestyle" investors.
  • Foreign investment Law 344 assures that foreign and domestic investment receives the same treatment. The law eliminates restrictions on the way in which foreign capital can enter the country and recognizes the investor’s right to own property and establish business enterprises as they wish. 100% foreign ownership is allowed – there is no requirement to have a local partner.
  • The Nicaraguan Government has established attractive residency and retirement programs where eligible persons are given customs exemptions for household goods and vehicles. Each update sees further improvements. The latest revision, made in June 2009, increased tax exemptions and benefits.
  • The cost of building is approximately $70-$95 per square foot.
  • Three major title insurance companies offer title insurance on property in Nicaragua: First American Title Insurance, Stuart Title and Land America.

The real estate market

  • Estimated 2012 Real GDP Growth 3.7%
  • Inflation 3.7%
  • Nicaragua is a signatory of the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA)
  • After completing conditions of an IMF-monitored economic program, Nicaragua has been granted relief of foreign debt via the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative.
  • Major shopping centers have opened in Granada, a new grocery store in San Juan del Sur and yet more shopping plazas, international hotels and entertainment venues in the capital.
  • Massive upgrades in roads and utilities are underway, particularly in Granada, Managua and on the Pacific. The La Virgin - San Juan del Sur road was improved in 2009 and remains in excellent condition.
  • Managua International Airport has recently been expanded to double its original capacity.
  • Telefonica, PCS and Enitel now operate cellular phone networks.
  • Other large investors include Bayer, Unilever, Esso, Coca Cola, Shell and TGI Fridays

Spectacular natural beauty

  • Beautiful Pacific coast white sand beaches to rival any in Costa Rica contrasting with dramatic hills and bluffs.
  • World class colonial architecture in Granada and Leon
  • Beautiful lakes and perfect cone volcanoes including Lake Nicaragua, the 10th largest freshwater lake in the world, and the astonishing Laguna de Apoyo.
  • Turtle sanctuaries, cloud forests with old-growth trees and exotic flora and fauna in close proximity to Granada and Managua.
  • For more information on what the country has to offer visit INTUR, Nicaragua’s tourist board.

Back to FAQs

Sign Up for the Free E-Course on Opportunities
for Profit & Lifestyle in Nicaragua.

Enter your email address below to sign up:

green real estate These condos are truly a grade above the rest. View listing.

green real estate One of the best views of San Juan del Sur bay. View Listing.

green real estate You'll want to frame the view from this luxury home. View Listing.