Commercial Property for Sale in Costa Rica: Hotels, Retail and Business Sites

Foreigners can own commercial property and run businesses in Costa Rica, often through a local company (S.A. or S.R.L.). Be careful that the premises are not in the coastal concession zone and that the business has the right licences. Employment law is protective, and a business purchase can bring obligations for staff. Seek advice from a local lawyer and accountant. See the Costa Rica buying guide.

• Licences: health, tourism (ICT) and municipal patents.
• Financial records and VAT compliance.
• Title and concession status.
• Employee liabilities.
• Seasonality and weather risks.
• Financing options in Costa Rica.

Many listings are sold as going concerns. You may be buying a building, a brand, equipment, and a licence, each with its own transfer mechanics. Insist on separate schedules for each and a clear allocation of the price. Verify the trading history with bank statements and tax filings, not just the seller's summary, and ask how the business performed in the low season. If the property is in a popular tourist town, check planned developments nearby, because a new road or resort can change footfall. Take legal advice on employment obligations, which can include accrued severance. A staged handover, with the seller staying on for a few weeks, protects both sides.

Make your offer conditional on licences, inspections and a clean title study. Agree who pays outstanding utility, social security and tax debts. A local accountant can check the books before you commit funds.