Frequently asked questions

Yes. Outside the restricted zone you buy directly in your name; inside it (within 50 km / 31 miles of the coast or 100 km of the border) you buy through a bank trust. See buying as a foreigner.

A trust where a Mexican bank holds title to the property for your benefit. You use it, rent it, sell it and leave it to your heirs. See the bank trust explained.

It is the legal structure set by Mexico's Foreign Investment Law for the restricted zone, used by many thousands of buyers. The bank is only the trustee: it does not own the property and cannot dispose of it.

Up to 50 years, and it can be renewed. See the bank trust explained.

There is a setup fee and an annual bank fee: roughly USD 1,500 to 2,500 to set up and USD 500 to 1,000 a year. We compare quotes from several banks.

Yes. To set up the trust the bank obtains a permit from the SRE (Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores). The bank or notary handles it as part of the process.

Budget around 5 to 8% of the price for acquisition tax, notary, appraisal and registration. See closing costs.

The property acquisition tax the buyer pays to the municipality. In Quintana Roo the rate is around 2 to 3% depending on the municipality. See taxes.

Property tax (predial) is paid yearly and is usually low compared with the US or Canada: amount to be verified with the municipality.

Yes, with an apostilled power of attorney so someone can sign for you. See the closing process.

The notary usually asks for an RFC or CURP to close. Foreigners can get an RFC from the SAT, and we guide you through it.

The most common option is developer financing. Some Mexican banks and a few US and Canadian lenders also finance Mexican property. See financing.

With developer financing it is often around 30%, with the rest in installments. Confirm with each development.

It depends on the club and neighborhood: range to be verified with the administration. See HOA fees and club rules.

Security, common areas, landscaping, street lighting and, in some clubs, trash collection and water. Amenities such as golf may be charged separately.

It depends on zoning and the club's rules. Some neighborhoods allow short-term rentals and others do not. We confirm it before you buy.

Some clubs require construction to start within a set period. It is in the rules and we review it with you.

Rental income pays Mexican income tax (ISR) and, for vacation rentals, VAT and lodging tax. See taxes.

Capital gains tax (ISR) on the profit. The primary-residence exemption does not always apply to foreigners. Talk to an accountant.

It depends on your timeline and how much you will use the home. See live or invest.

Each city fits a different buyer. See the comparison.

It runs from June to November. A well-built, well-checked home holds up; you want insurance and someone looking after it. See hurricane season.

We coordinate home watch services with photo reports. See property care.

Commission model to be confirmed. We put it in writing before we start.

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