Buying property in Mexico has become incredibly popular among Americans and Canadians looking for an investment, vacation home, or retirement destination. The process is easier than most people expect—you can legally own real estate in Mexico, including beachfront property, as long as you follow the correct steps.

This guide breaks the entire process down—simple, clear, and step-by-step.

How to Buy Real Estate in Mexico as an American or Canadian — Step-by-Step Guide — Mareazul pool

⭐ Can Foreigners Buy Real Estate in Mexico?

Yes.
Americans and Canadians can legally own property in Mexico. There are two ownership structures:

**1. Direct Deed Ownership (for property outside the restricted zone)**

Standard property title
Your name is on the deed
Same rights as a Mexican citizen

2. Fideicomiso (Bank Trust) — for beachfront or coastal properties

Required within:

50 km from the coast
100 km from international borders

The fideicomiso is:

A 50-year renewable trust
Held through a Mexican bank (you are the beneficiary)
Fully controllable—you can sell, rent, upgrade, inherit, or mortgage it

📌 Step-by-Step: How to Buy Real Estate in Mexico

🟦 Step 1 — Choose a Reliable Real Estate Agent

Work with:

An experienced, English-speaking agent
A brokerage that is FORMally certified (AMPI member)
A company that understands foreign buyer processes

A good agent will:

Help you understand local laws
Provide comparables
Protect your interests during negotiations

🟩 Step 2 — Identify the Right Property

Foreign buyers typically look for:

Condos near the beach
Investment rentals
Pre-construction opportunities
Gated communities

Top markets for Americans/Canadians include:

Playa del Carmen
Tulum
Puerto Aventuras
Puerto Morelos
Mérida
Los Cabos
Puerto Vallarta

🟧 Step 3 — Make an Offer

Your agent prepares a non-binding offer or “Offer to Purchase,” including:

Precio:
Payment terms
Closing date
Inclusions (furniture, appliances, etc.)

Once accepted, you sign a Promissory Agreement and pay a deposit (usually 5–10%).

🟨 Step 4 — Choose a Closing Attorney / Notary

In Mexico, the Notario Público (Notary) is a government-appointed official legally required to:

Verify ownership
Conduct a title search
Ensure no liens
Prepare the deed or fideicomiso

Your closing attorney will:

Review contracts
Protect your legal interests
Coordinate with the notary

🟥 Step 5 — Set Up Your Fideicomiso (If Needed)

If buying in the restricted zone:

Your attorney will apply for a permit from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The trust is created through a Mexican bank
You become the beneficiary

Annual fideicomiso cost: $450–$650 USD/year depending on the bank.

🟪 Step 6 — Final Closing

Once all documents are ready, you will:

Sign before the Notario
Pay closing costs
Receive your temporary property rights document
Receive the official title a few months later

Typical closing costs:

5–8% of the purchase price

💵 How Americans & Canadians Pay for Property

Most foreign buyers pay:

Cash (bank transfer)
Developer financing (if pre-construction)
Home equity loan from their U.S./Canadian bank

Traditional Mexican mortgages for foreigners are limited.

🛡️ Is Real Estate Safe to Buy in Mexico?

Yes—if you follow the correct process and use:

A reputable agent
A certified notary
A trustworthy attorney

Avoid:

Paying cash directly to developers
Buying without a title search
Signing anything you don’t understand

📄 Documents You’ll Need

Valid passport
Driver’s license (for ID)
Proof of address
Bank account information
FMM or residency card (tourist visa is fine)

🌴 Benefits of Buying Real Estate in Mexico

Lower purchase prices
High rental income potential
Low property tax (≈ $200–$400/yr)
Strong tourism demand
Great lifestyle, warm weather
Excellent long-term appreciation

📝 Final Tips

Visit the property in person
Use a qualified AMPI agent
Always close with a Notario
Never send money without a formal contract
Get everything in writing

View Playa del Carmen Properties for Sale

Please feel free to check out our list of Playa del Carmen properties for sale: https://www.playadelcarmenhomesforsale.com/properties

About the Author

Hi, I’m Matt from Nasplaya, your go-to guide for living, investing, and thriving in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. In 2008 my husband and I quit our jobs in Boston, Massachusetts, sold everything we owned and drove to Playa del Carmen, Mexico to start North American Standards (Nasplaya), our property management, vacation rental and real estate company. Now 17+ years later, I am sharing our experience helping expats and property owners navigate the local market. I share honest insights, practical tips, and insider knowledge to make your move—or your investment—a success.

From finding the best schools and maximizing rental income to understanding local regulations and uncovering hidden gems, my goal is to give you clear, actionable advice you can trust. When I’m not exploring the beaches or scouting the newest rental opportunities, I’m sharing stories, guides, and strategies that help you make the most of life in paradise.

Follow along for expert tips, local updates, and everything you need to live, invest, and enjoy the Riviera Maya to the fullest.

North American Standards (NAS Playa)
Property Management • Rentals • Real Estate
📍 Playa del Carmen, Mexico
🌐 www.nasplaya.com 🔑 Rentals: rentals@nasplaya.com
📊 Ventas: buy@nasplaya.com 🏘 Property Management: bookings@nasplaya.com

How to Buy Real Estate in Mexico as an American or Canadian — Step-by-Step Guide