Mexico Living · Buyer's Guide
A plain-English walkthrough of how a foreign buyer purchases a home, condo or lot in Mexico — from first tour to registered title. No jargon, no surprises.
Retirement, rental income, a second home, or a full relocation? Each points to a different zone and property type. Set a realistic all-in budget including closing costs (typically 5–8% of the purchase price) before you fall in love with a listing.
Inland (Mérida and most of Yucatán state) you buy freehold in your own name — no restrictions. Within ~50 km of the coast you buy through a fideicomiso, a renewable bank trust that gives you full rights to use, rent, sell and bequeath the property.
Visit in person or by live video. Compare honestly: light, noise, commute, flood history, HOA fees, and the state of utilities. We give you the drawbacks, not just the highlights.
A written offer with a deposit held in escrow, contingent on clean title and appraisal. Never hand money directly to a seller before the notary process begins.
The notary (notario público) verifies title, checks for liens and unpaid taxes, confirms zoning, and calculates transfer taxes. This is your core legal safeguard in Mexico.
Sign the deed (escritura) before the notary, pay the balance and taxes, and the property is registered in the Public Registry. You receive keys and, for coastal property, your fideicomiso.
Yes. Inland you own outright; on the coast you own through a bank trust (fideicomiso) that carries the same practical rights. Millions of foreigners own homes in Mexico this way.
Budget 5–8% of the purchase price for notary fees, transfer tax (ISABI), registration and, on the coast, fideicomiso setup. We give you a line-item estimate before you commit.
No. You can buy as a tourist. Residency (temporary or permanent) is a separate process that many buyers pursue afterward — we can point you to the right immigration help.