Guide to buying a property in Mexico as a foreigner
Mexico has become one of the most attractive destinations for foreign investors, especially in areas such as the Riviera Maya. Warm weather, paradisiacal landscapes, high tourist flow and capital gain opportunities have made Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Cancun among the favorite destinations to acquire a property.
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But if you are not a Mexican citizen, you are probably wondering: is it legal? is it safe? what do I need? In this guide we explain everything you need to know about buying property in Mexico as a foreignerin a safe and strategic manner.
Can a foreigner buy property in Mexico?
Yes, foreigners can buy property in Mexicoincluding in beach or border areas. However, there are two different schemes depending on the location:
Outside the restricted area (more than 50 km from the coast and 100 km from the border): you can buy directly in your name.
Within the restricted zone (such as Tulum, Playa del Carmen or Cancun): you need to buy through a bank trust or by means of a legal entity (Mexican company) if the purpose is commercial.
What is a trust?
The trust is a legal instrument through which a Mexican bank acts as trustee, administering the property on behalf of the foreign buyerwho retains all rights: use, rent, sale, inheritance, etc.
- It is established for a renewable period of 50 years.
- The foreign buyer is the sole beneficiary.
- It is completely safe and endorsed by Mexican Law.
The incorporation cost varies between 1,500 and 2,000 USD approximately, plus an annual fee.
Requirements to purchase as a foreigner
The documents required are few and the process is simple if you have professional advice. You will need:
- Valid passport.
- Proof of address abroad.
- Immigration form (residency is not required).
- RFC (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes), which can be processed with advice.
- Signing of the trust with an authorized bank.
- Payment of taxes and notary fees.
Step-by-step process to buy a property
1. Consultation with a professional real estate agent
Choose a company with experience in international transactions and knowledge of the Mexican market and regulations.
Selection of the property
You can buy pre-sale, for immediate delivery, or even invest in vacation rental properties.
3. Signing of the promise of sale contract
Includes conditions, delivery times, penalties and payment schedule.
4. Constitution of the trust (if applicable)
We guide you through the process with the trust bank.
5. Notary public deed
The final payment is made and the acquisition is legally formalized.
6. Delivery of the property and registration
Once deeded, your property is registered with the Public Registry of Property.
How long does the whole process take?
In general, the entire process can take between 30 to 45 daysdepending on the type of property, the availability of the notary and the trust bank. If it is a pre-sale purchase, the delivery will depend on the construction schedule, but the legal process can be done before.
What happens after I buy?
After acquiring the property, you can:
Use it as a vacation home.
Short-term rental on platforms such as Airbnb.
Live there part-time or full-time.
Resell it in the future and capitalize the capital gain.
Buying in Mexico as a foreigner is possible and safe
With the right legal backing and the right advice, investing in Mexico as a foreigner is an excellent asset and financial decision.. Places like the Riviera Maya offer opportunities that combine lifestyle and profitability.
At iBrokers we have accompanied hundreds of investors from the United States, Canada, Europe and South America on their path to real estate investment in Mexico.
Ready to take the first step? Contact us and receive personalized advice to find the ideal property in the Riviera Maya.
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