1. Introduction & Acceptance
These Terms and Conditions ("Agreement") govern the relationship between Valle Vivo ("Platform") and all property owners ("Hosts") who register to list properties within the Machuca Valley community. By completing the registration process and checking the agreement box, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by this Agreement in its entirety.
2. Listing Accuracy & Representation
2.1 All property listings must contain accurate and truthful descriptions, current nightly pricing, high-quality photographs that genuinely represent the property, and an up-to-date availability calendar.
2.2 Any material misrepresentation of property features, amenities, location, or condition may result in immediate listing suspension without refund of any fees paid.
2.3 Hidden fees of any kind are strictly prohibited. Pricing displayed to guests must reflect the complete total cost of their stay.
3. Host Responsibilities
3.1 Response Time: Hosts must respond to all booking requests within 24 hours of receipt. Consistent failure to do so may result in listing suspension.
3.2 Property Standards: All properties must be maintained in clean, safe, and habitable condition throughout the rental period.
3.3 Check-in Instructions: Hosts must provide guests with clear and accurate check-in instructions no later than 24 hours before their scheduled arrival.
3.4 Inspections: Properties are subject to inspection by Valle Vivo staff or designated representatives upon 24 hours' prior notice. Failure to accommodate an inspection may result in listing suspension.
4. Booking & Cancellation Policy
4.1 Valle Vivo charges a 15% platform commission on all confirmed bookings. This fee is automatically deducted before Host payout.
4.2 Hosts who need to cancel a confirmed booking must notify Valle Vivo at least 48 hours before the scheduled check-in date.
4.3 Hosts who cancel more than two bookings within any 90-day period may have their listing temporarily or permanently suspended at Valle Vivo's discretion.
4.4 If a Host cancels within 48 hours of check-in, the guest is entitled to a full refund, and the Host may be subject to a penalty fee.
5. Fees & Payments
5.1 Platform Commission: Valle Vivo retains 15% of each confirmed booking as a platform and service fee.
5.2 Payout Schedule: Host payouts are processed within 48 hours of confirmed guest check-in, subject to no active disputes.
5.3 Disputed Payments: In cases of dispute, Valle Vivo reserves the right to withhold payout in escrow until the matter is fully resolved.
5.4 Hosts are responsible for all applicable taxes on income earned through the Platform under Costa Rican law.
6. Guest Relations & Code of Conduct
6.1 Hosts must maintain professional, courteous communication with all guests at all times.
6.2 Discrimination of any kind — based on nationality, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected characteristic — is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate and permanent account termination.
6.3 Hosts who fail to meet the 24-hour response requirement on three or more consecutive occasions may have their listing suspended pending review.
7. Prohibited Activities
The following activities are strictly prohibited on all Valle Vivo listed properties:
- Commercial farming, agricultural operations, or livestock management
- Sub-letting the property to undisclosed third parties
- Hosting ticketed or paying events with more than 20 attendees without prior written approval
- Any activity that is illegal under the laws of the Republic of Costa Rica
- Misrepresenting the property's environmental certifications or eco-credentials
8. Account Termination
8.1 Valle Vivo reserves the right to terminate any Host account, with or without notice, for violation of any provision of this Agreement.
8.2 Hosts wishing to voluntarily close their account must provide 30 days' written notice. All active bookings must be honoured before termination takes effect.
8.3 Upon termination, all listing data will be removed from the platform within 30 days.
9. Liability & Indemnification
Valle Vivo acts solely as an intermediary platform. Hosts are solely responsible for the condition and safety of their property. Hosts agree to indemnify and hold harmless Valle Vivo from any claims, damages, or losses arising from their property or actions as a Host.
10. Governing Law
This Agreement is governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Costa Rica. Any disputes arising from this Agreement shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Costa Rica.