In a market as dynamic as Real Estate in Costa Rica, professionalization is more than a simple goal; it’s a necessity.
We had the privilege of speaking with Dawn Lane, a seasoned industry veteran with over 25 years of experience, who has brought her passion and dedication to Costa Rica to drive the transformation of the real estate sector. Through her work as Vice President of the Costa Rica Global Association of Realtors (CRGAR) and as the country’s only certified OMNI MLS instructor, Dawn has been a driving force in elevating market standards. Join us as we explore her vision for greater transparency, security, and trust in the industry.
To start, you had a very successful career in the United States before settling in Costa Rica. What motivated you to make that change, and what has your experience been like adapting to the Costa Rican real estate market?
After more than 25 years in the real estate industry as a broker/owner in the U.S., I was ready for a new chapter.
Costa Rica drew me in with its natural beauty, slower pace of life, and the opportunity to be part of a real estate market that’s still evolving.
Adapting hasn’t been without its challenges—there are no government licenses, and the industry can feel like the “wild west” at times—but that’s also what makes this work so rewarding. We’ve been able to play a key role in elevating standards and helping maximize the use of the MLS, which I’m deeply passionate about. Previous leadership introduced the tool, then passed it forward for refinement. Having worked with the CoreLogic/Cotality MLS Matrix system for more than 20 years, I knew the potential it had to transform this market.
Nearly two years ago, I was appointed to the OMNI MLS project and since then we’ve increased usage by more than 200%. We have a fantastic MLS Committee and the full support of the CEO of Latin America Omni MLS, CRGAR President, our Board of Directors, and our members. Together, we’re dialing in this tool to help Realtors enhance their business. The professionals who embrace it are thriving—those who don’t will be left behind, because technology always wins. I’m a bit of a data geek myself, and I love being able to tell the story with real time data that supports smarter decisions for both buyers and sellers.
We would love to know more about the role of CRGAR. Could you explain what it means to be a member of this association and why it is so crucial for buyers and sellers to choose a professional who belongs to it?
“In Costa Rica, anyone can call themselves an agent. The difference is, some of us actually know what we’re doing.”
CRGAR (Costa Rica Global Association of Realtors) membership stands for professionalism and accountability in a market where not everyone plays by the same rules. Many people working as “agents” aren’t legal residents, have no formal training, and in some cases don’t even live in Costa Rica. They represent buyers and sellers, profit from the real estate industry, and then take those benefits out of the country—without paying taxes or giving anything back. Consumers often don’t realize this until there’s a problem, and by then it’s too late.
Choosing a CRGAR Realtor® means choosing someone who:
● Is a legal resident of Costa Rica.
● Has completed training and ongoing education.
● Has passed a criminal background check.
● Is registered with SUGEF and pays taxes to Hacienda.
● Submits letters of recommendation from industry peers
● Has a network of professional peers to rely on.
● Is bound by a Code of Ethics and a Professional Standards process that ensures accountability.
The difference is real. Most people calling themselves “agents” are simply consultants, but CRGAR members have earned the right to call themselves Realtors®. This year, we’re also launching a campaign to help consumers understand why that distinction matters.
We have a strong Board of Directors this year and fully support our President, Jen Dalton’s, vision to expand the association and provide more educational opportunities for our members. Our team has been traveling across the country to deliver two-day Legal, Business, and MLS courses in more areas. Many people don’t realize that all of our leadership positions, instructors, and OMNI MLS Technology Labs are volunteer-based. Not only are we full-time Realtors®, but we dedicate countless volunteer hours to improving the industry for our members.
We have a long way to go, but we’re making a real difference in the quality of service and knowledge in the industry. We’re grateful to the leaders who started CRGAR from just an idea—and our current leadership is ready to take it to the next level.
This November, we’ll host the first-ever ELEVATE Conference at Reserva Conchal, featuring industry leaders and major sponsors like BAC, and Pignataro Law Firm. It will be a full day of keynote speakers and panels presenting the biggest issues impacting Realtors and the industry. We’re very excited to bring this event to life. We expect over 150 industry professionals to attend.
Your work as a certified OMNI MLS instructor is unique in the country. For those who are not familiar, what exactly is an MLS, and how is its implementation transforming the way real estate transactions are conducted here?
MLS stands for Multiple Listing Service. It’s a database where professional Realtors® share exclusive listings and cooperate on transactions, ensuring accurate data, transparency, and collaboration. Before MLS, information was scattered, inconsistent, and often unreliable. Listings were not exclusive so you had trouble tracking down who the real listing agent was. Information was guarded by the agents, and often buyers didn’t have a choice for representation. They had to use the agent that advertised the property. Now, buyers and sellers have access to verified data, properties are marketed more efficiently, and professionals can truly collaborate. Buyers and sellers can choose who will exclusively represent them, and all listings from all companies are shared on the MLS. Agents must be a member of CRGAR in order to have access to the tool.
As the only certified MLS instructor in Costa Rica, I’ve seen firsthand how it’s elevating the market by creating trust through consistency. Beyond that, having accurate, real-time data helps us predict market shifts and allows both buyers and sellers to make informed decisions—something that’s never been possible before. The MLS is also transforming lending by providing appraisers with sold data, which allows them to better determine property values and, in turn, helps lenders feel more confident supporting buyers in Costa Rica.
When we talk about professionalism, a topic that often raises concerns in the Costa Rican real estate market is the security of financial transactions. In this context, how would you describe the role of the Escrow process and why is it a vital component to provide peace of mind to both buyers and sellers?
Escrow is one of the most important safeguards in any transaction. When large sums of money are involved, especially internationally, both buyers and sellers need peace of mind. Escrow ensures funds are held by a neutral, trusted third party until all conditions of the contract are met. It prevents fraud, protects both sides, and allows everyone to move forward with confidence.
The challenge is that in some areas of Costa Rica, the concept of escrow isn’t yet widely accepted. That’s why it’s critical for us to work together to build trust and demonstrate that this is the safest and most transparent method for both buyers and sellers.
In your experience, what is the most rewarding part of your work in Costa Rica, whether through CRGAR, with your clients, or simply enjoying the “pura vida” lifestyle?
For me, it’s a blend of two things: making a real impact in raising the bar for the profession, and seeing the joy on clients’ faces when they find their dream property. Helping them understand the process and being a good steward of their dream is something I take seriously.
On a personal level, the pura vida lifestyle is incredibly rewarding—being able to live surrounded by nature, community, and a culture that values balance and connection. I’ve also had the privilege of giving back, whether it’s helping plan the building of the Tamarindo Children’s Library, supporting animal rescue and care, or helping locals improve their quality of life in different ways. It’s a privilege to combine meaningful work with meaningful community.
Looking ahead, what is your vision for the Costa Rican real estate market, and what role do you think continued professionalization, education, and tools like the MLS will play in its growth?
My vision is a market that’s more professional, transparent, and trusted—where buyers and sellers can feel as confident here as they would in any developed country. Tools like the MLS, ongoing education, and associations like CRGAR will play a huge role in getting us there.
We’re building the foundation for a future where Costa Rica isn’t just a dream destination to visit, but also a trusted and secure place to invest in real estate.
Thank you for the opportunity to share my experiences and insights. I’m truly honored to be part of Costa Rica’s real estate journey and to work alongside so many dedicated professionals raising the bar for our industry.
Costa Rica has given me so much, and I’m grateful every day to contribute in a way that supports buyers, sellers, and the communities we serve.
Dawn Lane
Dawn Lane’s vision for a more transparent and trustworthy real estate market is clear: transformation is a collaborative effort. Her work with CRGAR and the MLS is laying the foundation for a future where buyers and sellers can feel as secure in Costa Rica as they would in any other developed country. Through a commitment to education, ethics, and the use of technological tools, professionals like Dawn are raising standards and ensuring transactions are secure.
At Pura Vida Escrow and Trust, we are proud to collaborate with professionals like Dawn, who raise industry standards, ensuring secure and transparent transactions. We invite you to follow our blog for more conversations with leaders who, like us, are transforming the business landscape in Costa Rica.
Thank you very much, Dawn!
