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Frequently Asked Questions
Buying and Owning
Building
Life at Cortez Estates
General Information
General
Cortez Estates is organized as the Cortez Estates Community, guided by a registered Master Agreement of Conditions and Restrictions. Each property owner becomes part of this Community upon purchase.
Developer management (initial phase): Buena Vista S.A. manages Cortez Estates until a majority of lots are sold. During this time, the Developer ensures the upkeep of common areas, infrastructure, and community standards.
Community governance (transition phase): Once the threshold is met, responsibility transfers to the Lot Owners, represented by an elected Community Board of Directors.
Community Board responsibilities include:
Preserving community norms for quiet enjoyment and respect for nature.
Overseeing architectural guidelines to maintain quality and harmony.
Managing and funding the upkeep of shared assets, including roads, water, electrical systems, security, and boundary fencing.
This approach offers the protections of an organized framework without the bureaucracy of a traditional HOA or HPR — creating a community that grows stronger as it grows together.
When you purchase a lot at Cortez Estates, the price includes not only the lot itself but also a number of items that are often left to the buyer elsewhere in Nicaragua. This approach minimizes uncertainty and makes the process more transparent.
Included with your purchase:
A survey of your lot prepared in your name.
A cadastral certificate (certificado catastral), the official government record confirming your lot boundaries.
Preparation of the title deed (escritura pública) for review by your lawyer, helping reduce legal costs.
Water and electricity service delivered to the property line within 90 days of closing.
Important note. With the government Environmental Permits for Cortez, you will not require a building permit specific to your lot. This can save you thousands of dollars
Buyer’s responsibility:
Property registration fees (approx. USD $1,000)
Independent legal counsel - 1% - 2%
Transfer Tax - this is a government tax that is determined after the sale of the property and can range from 1% to 7% of the property valued by the government
Hidden costs?
Proper due diligence on purchasing land in Nicaragua should uncover any and all costs for purchasing your lot.
Yes, financing is available from both LaFise Bank in Nicaragua, and directly from the Developer.
Preliminary* terms from LaFise Bank:
- 70% financing of cost of Lot and Building
- rate 9%
- in USD
* finalization of terms in the near future (April 2026)
Because each buyer’s situation is unique, financing is structured on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us directly to discuss available options.
Owners at Cortez Estates are responsible for ongoing expenses related to their property and for contributing to the upkeep of the Community.
Owner responsibilities:
Property taxes – Payable annually to the local municipality (Alcaldía). Taxes are 1% of the appraised value of the property
Utilities – Electricity and water usage, billed according to consumption.
Lot and home maintenance – Each owner is responsible for maintaining their own property and improvements in good condition.
Community contributions:
Annual Community Fee – This fee covers the upkeep of shared infrastructure and services.
Until the Community Board is established, the fee is paid to the Developer (currently set at approx. USD $1,800 per lot per year/ $150/month).
After transition, the Community Board — elected by property owners — will assess and manage the annual fee.
This structure ensures that while each owner manages their own property, shared assets such as roads, water systems, and electrical infrastructure are funded and maintained collectively.
Yes. Owners may rent their homes for both long-term and vacation stays.
Rental guidelines: The Community Board retains discretion over rental practices to ensure the quiet enjoyment of all residents. We encourage rentals of at least one week to minimize wear and tear and maintain the Community’s character.
Property management support: We can connect you with reputable local rental management firms who handle bookings, guest services, cleaning, and upkeep on your behalf.
This way, your property can generate income while remaining well cared for in your absence.
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