Finding Community and Opportunity in Costa Rica: The Journey of Enis Davis-Lewars
A Canadian legal professional brings dedication and experience to the real estate landscape in Costa Rica.
By
Sep 23, 2025
NATIONWIDE - SEPTEMBER 2025 - (USAnews.com) One cold winter day in Toronto, Canada, Enis Davis-Lewars was watching House Hunters International and saw a segment on Costa Rica. She immediately said to her husband “that place looks really nice to visit”. In 2013, Davis-Lewars and her husband visited Costa Rica for the first time and was pleasantly surprised at how friendly the people were, the amazing food and culture. They made a promise to visit Costa Rica again and again. Although, neither one of them could speak Spanish, they made a decision that this was a country they would like to retire in. For someone who had spent 35 years navigating the complexities of Toronto's legal landscape, the idea of leaving everything behind for a country she barely knew felt scary but was inevitable.
From Courtrooms to Coastlines
Davis-Lewars' foundation in precision and client advocacy was built during her three decades as a litigation law clerk at prestigious Toronto law firms. Her legal training instilled in her an attention to detail and commitment to client service that would later become her trademark in real estate. But even while immersed in the legal world, property investment had captured her imagination since age 24, when she purchased her first investment property.
"My fascination with real estate sparked at the age of 24 when I purchased my first property," Davis-Lewars reflects. "This experience ignited a passion that has grown over the years." She pursued continuing education in real estate and obtained her mortgage agent license in Toronto, building expertise that would prove invaluable in her future career pivot.
The transition wasn't without its challenges. Moving to Costa Rica in 2015 meant leaving behind a successful career, familiar systems, family and a support network built over decades. "The process of settling in a new country was an emotional roller coaster, but it's a journey I have never regretted embarking on," she explains.
Building Expertise in a New Market
Rather than simply diving into Costa Rican real estate, Davis-Lewars approached her new venture with the same methodical precision that had served her in law. When she joined Summer Coast Realty in January 2017, she immediately began comprehensive training through the Costa Rica Global Association of Realtors (CRGAR), becoming an active member and ensuring she understood every nuance of Costa Rican real estate law.
Her legal background proved invaluable in navigating the complexities of international property transactions. Where other agents might struggle with the regulatory frameworks and documentation requirements, Davis-Lewars brought decades of experience in legal procedures and client protection.
The Difference That Distance Makes
What sets Davis-Lewars apart from other agents isn't just her legal expertise or years of property investment experience. It's her understanding of what international clients truly need when making one of the biggest decisions of their lives.
"One of the many things that makes me stand out is I listen to my clients' needs and focus on making sure I find them the right home or property," Davis-Lewars explains. "After the closing of the deal, I continue assisting my clients by helping them settle in their new home and new country. I am always available to assist them."
This commitment to long-term client relationships stems from her own experience as an expatriate. Having navigated the challenges of relocating to Costa Rica herself, she understands the overwhelming nature of not just buying property, but adapting to a new culture, legal system, and way of life.
Her approach extends far beyond traditional real estate services. Davis-Lewars offers property management and vacation rentals, ensuring that clients feel supported whether they're using properties as primary residences, vacation homes, or rentals.
The Costa Rica Advantage
Davis-Lewars has spent nearly a decade traveling extensively throughout Costa Rica, building relationships and understanding regional markets from the Pacific coast to the mountain regions. This deep local knowledge allows her to match clients not just with properties, but with communities and lifestyles that align with their goals.
"Costa Rica is known as one of the friendliest countries in the world," she notes. "I take great joy in sharing my experiences and insights about this wonderful country with all my clients." Her permanent resident status and community connections provide clients with perspectives that go far beyond what typical vacation property marketing materials can offer.
The combination of stability, natural beauty, and welcoming culture continues to make Costa Rica an attractive destination for international buyers. Davis-Lewars supports clients throughout the property purchase process and provides guidance on connecting with trusted professionals for matters such as tax or residency considerations.
A Partnership Built on Trust
As Costa Rica’s appeal to international buyers continues to grow, Davis-Lewars' unique combination of legal expertise, investment experience, and expatriate insight positions has made her more than a real estate agent. It is a bridge between the aspirations of international buyers and the reality of successful property ownership in one of the world’s most desirable destinations.
For those considering property in Costa Rica, Davis-Lewars provides a perspective shaped by her own experience relocating internationally. She understands both the excitement and the challenges of establishing a new life abroad, and she shares that insight with clients who are exploring their options.
About Costa Rica Vacation Realty
Costa Rica Vacation Realty specializes in helping international clients navigate the Costa Rican real estate market with confidence. Founded by Enis Davis-Lewars, a former Toronto litigation law clerk with 35 years of legal experience and nearly a decade of Costa Rican real estate expertise, the company provides guidance throughout the property acquisition process and ongoing client support. As a permanent resident and active member of the Costa Rica Global Association of Realtors (CRGAR) and the Costa Rican OMNI MLS system, Davis-Lewars offers unique insight to clients seeking vacation homes, lifestyle properties, or long-term residences in Costa Rica.
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