Booking a monthly rental in Costa Rica is a great way to experience the local lifestyle without the commitment of a long term lease. However, the definition of a furnished unit varies widely and a few overlooked details can change the quality of your stay.
Furnished can mean almost anything
When you see a listing for a furnished apartment, do not assume it includes everything you need for daily life. For some landlords, furnished simply means there is a bed and a sofa in the unit. For others, it means a turnkey home where you only need to bring your suitcase.
To avoid surprises, you must ask for a written inventory before you sign a contract. This list should detail every piece of furniture and appliance provided. If the inventory is not provided, you risk arriving to find that basic necessities are missing.
Comparing different units is the best way to understand the local market. You can compare apartments to see how different buildings define their furnishings. This ensures you are paying a fair price for the level of equipment provided.
The kitchen is the first thing to check
A kitchen that is furnished for a weekend guest is very different from one furnished for a month long stay. Check if the unit includes pots, pans, plates, and cutlery. You should also confirm the presence of a coffee maker and a kettle if these are part of your morning routine.
Small details in the kitchen often determine how much you spend on eating out. A fully equipped kitchen allows you to shop at local supermarkets and cook at home. Without a proper set of pots and pans, you will find yourself relying on expensive deliveries.
Verify the condition of the appliances during your first walkthrough. Ensure the refrigerator cools efficiently and the stove burners all work. These are the tools you will rely on most during a long term stay.
Cooling, ventilation and the humidity question
Air conditioning is not universal in the Quepos and Manuel Antonio area. Some apartments have it only in the bedroom, some only in the living area, and some rely entirely on ceiling fans and cross ventilation. You must confirm exactly which rooms are cooled before booking.
Humidity is a constant factor in the tropics. Look for evidence of mould in the corners of the rooms, behind the furniture, and on the ceiling. Check that the bathroom has an extractor fan or a window to allow moisture to escape.
Screens on the windows are essential for a comfortable stay. Without them, insects and occasionally small wildlife will enter the apartment when you leave the lights on. Confirm that every openable window has a secure, intact screen.
Water, hot water and pressure
Hot water systems in Costa Rica often differ from those in North America or Europe. Many apartments use an electric shower head that heats water instantly for the shower only. This means the kitchen tap and the bathroom sink may provide only cold water.
Water pressure can be an issue during the dry season, which runs from roughly December to April. This is when demand is highest and the municipal supply may fluctuate. Ask the landlord whether the building has a holding tank and a pump to maintain consistent pressure.
Check the water flow in both the kitchen and the bathroom. If the building lacks a pump, you may experience low pressure during peak morning hours. This is a critical detail for those who value a strong shower.
Internet and the speed test you should insist on
Internet connectivity is the single most common complaint among remote workers in the region. Do not accept a general promise of high speed internet or a screenshot of a speed test from a different apartment in the building.
Insist on a current speed test taken at the specific address of the unit you are renting. You should also ask which provider serves the building to ensure they are a reputable company. This prevents the frustration of discovering the signal is too weak for video calls.
If you are planning to work from your rental, check the long term rentals in Quepos to see which buildings cater to digital nomads. Stable connectivity is a requirement, not a luxury, for professional work.
Space, storage and the laundry arrangement
Laundry is often a shared facility in the building rather than an in unit washer and dryer. You should ask how the machines are paid for and whether they are available for use during the weekends. Some buildings have strict schedules for shared laundry.
Consider the amount of storage available for your belongings. A month long stay requires more space than a few days, so check for closets and shelving. Ensure there is enough room for your luggage without cluttering the living space.
Outdoor space adds significant value to a stay of several weeks. A rooftop terrace, a balcony, or even a shared garden provides a necessary escape from the interior of the apartment. These areas are vital for mental well-being during longer stays.
Sound, light and what the street does at night
The location of your building affects your daily experience. The road between Quepos and Manuel Antonio climbs as you move toward the park. Buildings on the hill are generally quieter and closer to the nature trails.
Buildings located in town are closer to supermarkets and the bus terminal. The local bus runs roughly every 30 minutes, making it an easy way to get around. However, town center locations may have more street noise at night.
Pay attention to the light and sound levels during your visit. Check if the apartment faces a noisy road or a loud neighbor. A quiet environment is essential for a restful month of vacation or work.
Security and access
Security measures vary significantly between different properties. Some buildings feature a perimeter gate, a professional guard, or a locked parking area. Others open directly onto the street with no controlled access.
Ask the landlord how deliveries and guests are handled. If you are expecting packages, you need to know if there is a secure place for them to be left. If you have visitors, confirm how they will enter the building.
For example, Brunxu provides a structured environment for guests seeking a balanced stay between the town and the park. Understanding the security layout helps you feel at home and safe.
Money: what is included, what is not, and the deposit
Rental rates in this area typically range from US$700 to US$1,200 a month for one bedroom units. Two bedroom units generally cost between US$1,000 and US$1,600. You can find more details on rental rates for the current season.
Water and sometimes internet are included in the monthly rate. Electricity is almost never included and typically runs from US$80 to US$180 a month. The final cost depends heavily on how often you use the air conditioning.
Deposits are customarily equal to one month of rent. You must confirm in writing exactly what may be deducted from this deposit at the end of your stay. Also, get a written agreement on when the deposit will be returned to you.
Cancellation terms for monthly rentals are rarely the same as hotel terms. Ask how much notice you must give to vacate the property. Confirm whether a partial month is refunded if you leave early.
Be aware of minimum stay requirements. Some apartments will not accept bookings for fewer than a week. Others require a full month during the high season to ensure stability for the landlord.
The green season, from May to November, is generally quieter and cheaper. September and October are the wettest months of the year. While rain is heavy during this period, it usually does not last all day.
Frequently asked questions
Is a furnished apartment worth it compared with buying furniture?
For stays of a few months, renting furnished is significantly more practical. It eliminates the cost and effort of buying, assembling, and eventually selling furniture when you leave.
What should be in the inventory?
The inventory should list the bed, sofa, table, chairs, refrigerator, stove, microwave, and all kitchenware. It should also include a list of linens, towels, and any electronics provided.
Do I need to bring my own towels and linens?
Most furnished apartments provide basic linens and towels, but you should confirm this in the inventory. Some guests prefer to bring their own for personal preference or higher quality.
How do I pay rent from abroad?
Payment methods vary by landlord, often involving bank transfers or digital payment platforms. Always confirm the accepted method and any associated transfer fees before you arrive.
If you have more questions about our units, you can visit our frequently asked questions page or start a reservation. For direct inquiries, contact Brunxu via WhatsApp at +506 8853 8245.