2025 Nicaragua Property Market Report
2025 Nicaragua Property Market Report
Hi everyone, and thanks for checking out this article!
As we step into 2025, I wanted to share some updates about the real estate market here in Nicaragua, especially along the beautiful southern Pacific Coast in areas like San Juan del Sur and Popoyo/Tola. These places have been buzzing with activity lately, thanks to major infrastructure improvements and the ever-growing wave of tourism.
Market Trends in 2024
The close of 2024 brought more positive momentum for Nicaragua’s property market. The rapid development of the Coastal Highway project, combined with record-breaking growth in tourism, spurred increased private investment. This has led to more property sales and an overall increase in transaction values, along with a steady rise in property prices throughout the year.
Ocean-view single-family homes were especially popular, with December being a particularly busy month for sales and contracts. San Juan del Sur and its surrounding neighborhoods continued to attract families, remote workers, retirees, and rental investors, drawn by our beaches, vibrant community, dining and entertainment scene, and an excellent English school.
In the Popoyo area, the completion of a key section of the new highway cut travel time from Managua by over 30%, making the region more accessible than it has ever been. This improved connectivity has enhanced Popoyo’s long-standing appeal to surfers chasing its world-famous waves while also attracting investors and vacationers looking for easy access to Nicaragua’s coastline.
San Juan del Sur has already started benefiting from the Coastal Highway, and its impact is expected to grow as the project progresses. While Popoyo caters more to advanced surfers, San Juan del Sur offers a broader mix of amenities, including restaurants, nightlife, and local services. These two destinations complement each other beautifully, creating a well-rounded appeal that supports sustainable growth in the region’s real estate market.
Tourism Driving Growth
Nicaragua set a new tourism record in 2024, achieving increases in both visitor numbers and per capita spending. According to INTUR, the country’s tourism department, per capita daily spending rose by 9.5% during Q3 of 2024 compared to the previous year. Additionally, projections from Statista forecast an annual tourism growth rate of 5.87% through 2029.
This ongoing boom in tourism is strengthening the economy and boosting demand for vacation homes and investment properties, especially during peak season. Visitors escaping colder northern climates are drawn to Nicaragua’s sunny beaches, and that seasonal influx always energizes the real estate market.
Outlook for 2025
Looking ahead, I anticipate buyer demand will continue to grow steadily throughout 2025. Industry colleagues and I have noticed increased interest from international buyers, though existing property inventory remains below pre-pandemic levels. This has sparked more new construction projects, which had slowed in recent years.
Even with more new builds popping up, I think existing properties still offer the best value. Renovation costs in Nicaragua are incredibly affordable thanks to low labor costs, while rising global prices for building materials have made new construction more expensive.
Buying an existing home also has the advantage of being quicker and more cost-effective. Most homes come furnished, saving you the hassle and expense of starting from scratch. If you want to make upgrades, you can easily shop at big retailers like Siman or Sinsa, or even order through services like Destination Nica, which delivers directly to San Juan del Sur. Their maritime shipping is surprisingly affordable, though it requires a few weeks of patience. I recently outfitted an apartment unit this way, minus a few larger furniture items.
What’s Ahead
Nicaragua’s southern Pacific Coast real estate market is set for another strong year, thanks to ongoing infrastructure improvements, booming tourism, and growing interest from international buyers.
Our market’s cash-based nature keeps growth steady and insulates it from global economic fluctuations. Plus, Nicaragua offers the same natural beauty as Costa Rica but at a fraction of the cost—living expenses here are about 46% lower. With travel outlets like Condé Nast Traveler naming our region a top destination for 2025, now is an excellent time to explore the possibilities.
Whether you’re considering moving to Nicaragua, considering investing in property, or just visiting, We can help you make the most of your experience. If you’ve found a property through another brokerage, feel free to reach out—I work collaboratively with others to ensure you find the perfect fit.
While rental management isn’t part of my services, I’m happy to connect you with trusted local managers and transportation providers. Supporting local businesses is something I’m passionate about, and I’m always glad to recommend reliable options from within our community.
Thanks for reading. You can reach out to me in any of the ways below.
Joel Stott-Jess
LifeInNica.com
Cell / WhatsApp: +505 8176 8624
US Number 1 786 753 8743
Skype: joelstottjess
Joel Stott-Jess is a New York Times featured agent / broker in San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua.
Originally from Alberta, Canada he has been doing business in Nicaragua since 2014.
An investment consultant, serial entrepreneur, surfer, and outdoor enthusiast he is an expert on the real estate and business markets in Nicaragua.
