Independent construction advice for buying, building, and fixing homes in Costa Rica.

I’m Chris Drown, an independent construction advisor in Costa Rica helping people buy, build, and care for their homes.

I bring hands-on building experience and the perspective of someone who owns a home here to help you understand your home and weigh your options. I explain what matters, why it matters, and what I would prioritize so you can make confident decisions.

An experienced advisor on your side

I’ve worked as a construction superintendent and project manager, renovated my own properties, and now own and maintain a home in Costa Rica.

That experience shapes how I advise you. I look at how a home works as a whole, explain what matters, and help you weigh your options. You stay involved and make the decisions.

I work independently, with no commissions, referral fees, or markups.

years of construction and trades experience.

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Independent home evaluations and construction advice in Costa Rica

Find the support that fits your situation, from early planning and document review to evaluating a home before purchase or investigating an unresolved problem.

I’m planning to build: Owner’s Representation

From early planning through construction, I help you review decisions, ask the right questions, and independently evaluate the work alongside your project team.

Explore Owner’s Representation

I’m buying a home: Pre-Purchase Home Evaluations

An independent home evaluation helps you understand the property’s condition and what the findings mean for your purchase, future maintenance, and planned improvements.

Explore Pre-Purchase Evaluations

I have a home problem: Building Forensics

For leaks, moisture, or other unresolved problems, I investigate possible causes, document the evidence, and explain the next steps.

Explore Building Forensics

I’m reviewing plans or proposals: Construction Document Review

Before you sign, approve, or pay, I help you identify gaps, clarify expectations, and understand what the construction documents mean for you.

Explore Document Review

Major renovations and residential investment projects are considered individually, based on the support needed and where I can add value.

Unsure which service fits? Tell me about your situation.

Understanding the home before committing

Discover how we’ve transformed ideas into reality through our exceptional construction solutions.

New Home Inspection in Atenas, Costa Rica

Evaluated a newly constructed home in Atenas, identifying critical electrical, plumbing, roofing, drainage, and slope-stability concerns to help buyers assess risks, estimate repair costs, and make an informed purchasing decision.

View Project

What clients say

Our top priority is customer satisfaction, and we work closely with clients to understand their unique needs and goals.

The owner, Chris, is amazing. He's very knowledgeable and thorough. I felt very secure knowing he was performing my home inspection. The fact that he knows American building code and applies them to the inspections he does in Costa Rica is very reassuring. There were no surprises and it helped us to address some issues with our home before our due diligence period was completed. Although Chris's services are on the higher end of a home inspector, it was well worth the price. Thank you!”

Annie GleasonGoogle review

“He has knowledge of both Costa Rican and American building practices which came in handy when discussing some of the repairs that will need to be done on the property.”

Rochelle IrelandFacebook review

“Christopher helped us with an issue we were having with our water tank and the pump. He was so thorough at checking everything and so good at explaining how the whole system works and drawing a diagram for future reference. He will guide you as well to find the right people and ask the right questions. He has so much knowledge about the construction, functioning and maintenance of a house that you’ll be very lucky to make use of his services. He also advised us to get a simple gadget for opening our electric garage door which saved us a lot of money and meant we didn’t have to change the entire motor. He is an honest and kind man and I highly recommend him.”

Antoinette van BelleGoogle review

Still exploring your options?

Learn more about buying, building, and owning a home in Costa Rica through practical resources and my Facebook group, Costa Rica Real Estate: Building and Buying Support.

Tell me what you’re working through

Whether you’re planning to build, considering a purchase, or caring for your home, I’ll help you understand your options and make informed decisions. Let’s talk about how I can help.