Grupo Gap Equity Loans

At GAP Equity Loans, our mission is simple: connect people. We bring together borrowers who need fast, reliable financing and private investors looking for secure, real estate–backed returns. By operating outside the limitations of traditional banks, we provide access to funding opportunities most lenders cannot offer.

Our network of private investors allows us to deliver competitive rates, lower closing costs, and far more flexibility than conventional banking. Since 2008, we’ve helped countless clients reach their goals through strategic, common-sense lending solutions.

Here’s a clear overview of how our Costa Rican private mortgage loans work. All loans are interest-only and typically range from 6 months to 3 years, with competitive annual rates and closing fees comparable to standard banking options in Costa Rica. We keep the process fast and efficient, with most loans completing in 5 to 10 business days.

Interest rates are based on the loan-to-value ratio (LTV). Lower LTVs receive better rates—for example, using a $300,000 USD property to secure a $30,000 USD loan represents a 10% LTV and generally qualifies for stronger terms. Our lenders offer financing up to a maximum of 50% LTV, giving borrowers flexibility while maintaining the stability and security that private investors expect.

Lawsen Tellier, Operations Manager

Lawsen Tellier, the Operations Manager at Grupo Gap, is a dynamic force in Costa Rica’s financial and real estate sectors. He embarked on his professional journey in his late teens, accompanying his father, the founder of Gap, to intricate loan site inspections.

With over a decade of experience, Lawsen has mastered the meticulous process at Gap Equity Loans, ensuring quality and security for private investors from initial vetting through accurate National Registry recordings. Simultaneously, Lawsen has been a pivotal figure at GAP Real Estate, leveraging his understanding of property valuation and legal intricacies.

His dual roles have given him a unique vantage point, bridging the gap between lending and real estate, making him an invaluable asset to the GAP conglomerate. As he continues to shape the future of GAP’s diverse ventures, Lawsen’s journey from his late teens to a seasoned professional in Costa Rica stands as a testament to his dedication, expertise, and the legacy of the GAP companies.

Steven James Stewart, Strategic Advisor – Development & Capital Structuring

Steven Stewart brings over 35 years of international expertise in real estate development, capital structuring, and infrastructure finance to Grupo GAP. As Strategic Advisor, he plays a key role in guiding large-scale projects and advising on high-value loan structuring for GAP Investments and GAP Equity Loans.

A permanent resident of Costa Rica since 2004, Steven has helped shape a range of high-impact developments across the country, providing financial strategy and project oversight for residential, commercial, and hospitality ventures. His background includes managing complex capital stacks and working with local architects, construction firms, and financial institutions to align investor interests with borrower needs.

Before joining Grupo GAP, Steven led major initiatives in Canada and Latin America, managing a $300 million investment portfolio and advising on multiple Limited Partnerships. In Costa Rica, he has collaborated with top-tier firms, including Edificar, Constructora Meco, and Arquitectos y Diseños. His insights help ensure GAP-funded projects are well-structured, financially viable, and strategically aligned with investor goals.

Steven is fluent in English and Spanish and is highly regarded for his ability to navigate Costa Rica’s regulatory and financial landscape while delivering practical, on-the-ground execution.

Glenn Tellier, founder and CEO

Glenn Tellier is a highly regarded finance industry professional with over 30 years of experience in lending, investments, and financial planning. As the founder of Grupo Gap, Glenn has established a reputation for providing expert advice and guidance to numerous clients, helping them make informed financial decisions and achieve their objectives.

Glenn studied at the prestigious University of British Columbia, where he earned his mortgage broker’s license in the mid-90s. His dedication to excellence in his field is further demonstrated by his extensive training and experience, making him a trusted, highly sought-after professional.

Glenn is committed to providing his clients with the highest quality of service and is passionate about enhancing the country’s well-being by offering expert financial advice. His vast experience, industry knowledge, and dedication to excellence make him an invaluable asset to Grupo Gap.

Robert N. J. Stewart – Senior Consultant

Robert Stewart is a distinguished Chartered Financial Planner with nearly 60 years of experience and more than 100 industry awards. Beginning his career in 1965, he became one of Kitchener–Waterloo’s most recognized financial planners, earning multiple honors as Regal Capital Planners’ Top Financial Planner and speaking at major international financial conventions in Brazil, Hong Kong, and England.

After relocating to Costa Rica in 2004, Robert expanded his investments across Costa Rica, Spain, and Nicaragua, later serving as Chairman of the Board for a $2.3-billion development initiative, where he provided strategic oversight and high-level planning guidance.

Today, Robert works primarily with Grupo GAP as a senior consultant, specializing in tax-efficient project structures and connecting developers with reputable financial companies for major funding opportunities. His deep global network and decades of strategic experience make him a trusted resource for investors and developers seeking clear pathways to large-scale project financing in Costa Rica. Known for his integrity, precision, and ability to unite the right partners, he continues to support GAP-driven development throughout the region.