Commercial Real Estate Legal Advice

Legal Support Tailored to Property Investors, Business Owners, and International Buyers

Legal Foundations of Real Estate Transactions in Croatia

Real estate transactions in Croatia are governed primarily by the Ownership and Other Real Rights Act and the Land Registration Act, which regulate legal ownership, real rights, and land registration. Zoning, construction, and property usage are subject to additional regulations under urban planning laws and building acts. For international investors, Croatian real estate law presents both opportunity and complexity—especially when buying in high-demand regions like Zagreb, Split, Istria, or the Dalmatian coast.

Kontić Legal provides comprehensive legal support for commercial real estate matters. With over 10 years of experience, businesses, investors, and foreign nationals are advised on secure and strategic property transactions in Croatia.

Why Work with a Commercial Real Estate Lawyer in Croatia?

While Croatia offers an attractive property market—coastal locations, increasing tourism, and competitive pricing—buying or leasing property here is not without legal risk. Having the right lawyer on your side protects your investment from:

Unclear property ownership
Illegal or unpermitted construction
Land registry and cadastral discrepancies
Access and easement issues
Zoning and urban plan limitations

Whether buying an office, leasing warehouse space, or acquiring a vacation rental, full-service legal support is provided—from first contact to final registration.

Our Real Estate Legal Services

Property Purchase and Sale (Buy/Sell Transactions)

Legal representation is provided for acquisitions of office buildings, commercial land, apartments, warehouses, and mixed-use properties:

Reviewing and drafting preliminary and final contracts
Land registry and cadastre due diligence
Coordination with notaries and tax authorities
Securing clear ownership transfer and title registration

Lease Agreements for Commercial Property

Commercial lease contracts are prepared and reviewed, including for:

Office rentals
Storage and logistics spaces
Retail or hospitality locations
Build-to-lease structures

Due Diligence and Legal Risk Assessment

Property checks include:

Ownership and lien verification
Urban zoning compliance
Legal building permits and documentation
Registered access and infrastructure connections
Restitution or inheritance claims

Legal Representation via Power of Attorney

Remote transactions are fully handled via Power of Attorney. Contracts are signed, authorities coordinated with, and ownership registered without client travel.

Company Formation for Property Ownership

Assistance is provided for setting up Croatian companies to hold real estate—particularly useful for non-EU nationals or those planning to operate rental businesses.

Who We Work With

Foreign and international clients, particularly from Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Poland, and other EU countries
Entrepreneurs and growing businesses seeking commercial space
Companies relocating or opening offices in Croatia
Families investing in coastal property or vacation rentals
Buyers seeking trusted advice and full transaction support

Whether buying a stone villa in Istria or renting office space in Zagreb, each approach is adapted to the client’s goals.

Client Case Example

A client from Austria wanted to buy a traditional stone house near the coast in Istria. At first glance, the property seemed ready to purchase, but due diligence revealed:

Illegal extensions built without permits
Incomplete cadastral records
Missing access rights to the public road

The construction was legalized in coordination with an architect and geodetic engineer. A price reduction was successfully negotiated, and the sale was completed through Power of Attorney. A tourist rental license was later obtained, allowing the client to generate income from short-term rentals.

Our Process

Initial Consultation – Goals are discussed and an overview of the legal steps is provided.
Document Review – Property or ownership documentation is analyzed.
Legal Analysis & Strategy – Risks are identified, structure proposed, and costs estimated.
Execution – Contracts are negotiated, drafted, and finalized; authorities contacted.
Follow-up & Support – Ongoing assistance is available for licensing, rentals, or future investments.

Common Legal Pitfalls (and How They Are Prevented)

Unregistered or unclear ownership – Verified through registry and cadastral data
Illegal construction – Permit and legalization status confirmed
Lack of legal access – Road access confirmed or easements established
Hidden encumbrances – Mortgages and third-party rights uncovered
Mismatch between zoning and use – Verified with municipal urban plans

Regional Legal Differences: Coast vs Inland

Coastal Areas

Stricter zoning rules to protect natural and cultural heritage
Additional approval required in tourism or protected zones
Common issues: illegal extensions, historical restitution claims

Inland Regions

Easier access to land for construction and development
Faster permitting in some municipalities
Agricultural land may still have restrictions for foreigners

Additional Services

Tourist Rental Licensing – Assistance with permit applications
Assistance with real estate agents or agencies – Coordination of viewings and agreements
Legal help with inheritance or gifting of property within families
Post-transaction support – Available case-by-case or on retainer

Frequently Asked Questions

Can non-EU citizens buy property in Croatia?
Yes, but certain legal conditions must be met or a company structure used.

How long does a property transaction take?
Typically 4–6 weeks, depending on documentation and complexity.

Do you assist with finding property?
While not acting as agents, trusted real estate agencies are recommended and legal vetting is provided.

Can transactions be handled remotely?
Yes, everything can be handled via a notarized Power of Attorney.

Do you offer fixed prices?
Individual quotes are provided based on case complexity, with competitive and transparent pricing.

Why Clients Trust Kontić Legal

Over 10 years of experience in Croatian property and business law
Personalized support with honest, direct communication
Fluent English and strong coordination with local professionals
Proven track record with EU-based investors
Efficient service tailored to remote transactions

Whether buying a first property in Croatia or expanding a portfolio, legal support that protects the investment from day one is essential.

Ready to Invest in Croatian Real Estate?

Let your real estate transaction be smooth, safe, and successful. Contact today for a consultation.