Yes! Foreign buyers can legally own property in Mexico through a Fideicomiso (real estate trust). This is required for purchases within the Restricted Zone, which includes areas within 100 km of an international border and 50 km of the coastline. This secure and regulated process allows foreign investors to enjoy property ownership in Mexico with full legal protections.

The Restricted Zone in Mexico refers to areas located within 100 km of national borders and 50 km from the coastline. Foreign buyers purchasing property in these regions must do so through a Fideicomiso (real estate trust) to comply with legal requirements.

A Fideicomiso is a trust-based property ownership system authorized by the Mexican government and regulated by the Central Bank of Mexico.

In simple terms, it allows foreign buyers to hold property in Restricted Zones as the beneficiary of the trust. The 50-year trust is perpetually renewable and transferable, ensuring long-term ownership security. As the beneficiary, the owner retains full property rights, including the ability to use, sell, lease, or pass the property to heirs. The bank only holds the title for the beneficiary but has no control or ownership rights over the property—it cannot sell or transfer it without written consent.

Many Mexican nationals also choose trust-based ownership as it clearly designates beneficiaries in case of inheritance.

A Notario Público is a highly qualified attorney appointed by the Mexican government, serving as a neutral and official party in real estate transactions.

Their primary responsibilities include:

• Verifying Property Title – Ensuring the title is free of liens, encumbrances, or outstanding debts.
• Legal Compliance – Overseeing the proper transfer of ownership and ensuring all legal requirements are met.
• Public Registry Recording – Officially registering the title deed to secure the buyer’s legal rights.

The Notario Público plays a crucial role in guaranteeing the transparency and legality of every real estate transaction in Mexico.

A real estate lawyer is your dedicated advocate, ensuring your interests are fully protected throughout the transaction.

Key benefits of hiring a lawyer include:

• Error Prevention – Ensuring all documents are accurate and legally sound.
• Title Registration – Verifying that your property title is properly recorded.
• Financial Assurance – Confirming that all taxes and bills are paid in full.
• Legal Compliance – Securing necessary permits and managing regulatory requirements.
• Transaction Coordination – Arranging appointments with banks and overseeing property surveys if needed.

Your lawyer serves as your greatest ally, providing expert guidance and ensuring a smooth, secure, and legally compliant real estate transaction.

A Trustee Bank is a Mexican financial institution authorized by the government to serve as the Fiduciario (Trustee) in a Fideicomiso (real estate trust). The bank holds the property title on behalf of the beneficiary while ensuring compliance with legal requirements, but it has no ownership rights over the property.

Purchasing new construction in Mexico follows a three-step process, beginning with the Offer to Purchase, followed by the Promissory Agreement, and concluding with the Irrevocable Trust Agreement.

1. Offer to Purchase – Similar to the process in other countries, this is a formal offer to buy a property at an agreed price within a specified timeframe. The offer is subject to document review, and a refundable deposit is held by the seller. If the buyer chooses not to proceed, the deposit is fully refunded.
   
   
2. Promissory Agreement – A legally binding contract that outlines the final terms and conditions of the transaction after negotiations are complete. While not the final ownership document, it secures the agreement between both parties.

   
   
3. Irrevocable Trust Agreement – This is the final step, where the property title is irrevocably transferred into a Fideicomiso (real estate trust), ensuring legal ownership for the buyer through a trustee bank.

To secure a pre-sale property in Mexico, buyers typically place a reservation deposit of $5,000 USD, which holds the unit for 15 to 20 days.


• The deposit is fully refundable if the buyer decides not to proceed before the reservation period expires.
• After this period, most developments require a minimum down payment of 30% to proceed with the purchase.
• Some developers may offer limited-time promotions with reduced down payments of 10% or 20%.

It’s essential to review the specific terms of the development to ensure they align with your financial plans.

For foreign buyers who may not have immediate funds to purchase their dream home, there are two primary financing options:

1. Pre-Sale Financing

This option is particularly attractive to investors, as it offers:

• Lower purchase prices compared to completed properties.
• Customization opportunities for apartment units.
• Flexible payment plans during the construction period (typically 6-18 months).

Common Pre-Sale Payment Structures:

• 30% down payment, 40% during construction, 30% upon delivery.
• 50% down payment, 30% during construction, 20% upon delivery.
• 80% down payment, 20% upon delivery (often comes with a discount).

2. Developer Financing

While not widely available, some developers in the Mayan Riviera offer financing options, including:

• Payment plans ranging from 36 to 60 months.
• Interest rates that may be higher than North American credit lines.
• A viable alternative for buyers unable to secure traditional loans in Canada or the U.S.


3. Private Financing

Please speak to one of our trusted agents to discuss the various options available through our network.

Understanding the terms of each financing option will help buyers choose the best solution for their investment goals.

It is important for buyers to understand that property titles are issued only after construction is completed. This process can take several months.

To protect buyers:

• The final payment should be made only when full ownership is confirmed.
• Delays in title issuance should be clearly addressed in the final contract.
• The contract should include penalties for the seller in case of late deed delivery.

Being informed and ensuring these terms are contractually defined will help buyers navigate the process smoothly.

Both the buyer and seller are responsible for their own legal fees. However, the buyer is required to cover 100% of the closing costs, which typically amount to approximately 5 to 9% depending on the purchase price.

Unlike other countries, Mexico does not have a centralized, nationwide MLS. Instead, real estate listings are spread across various local and regional platforms.

At Nivara, we provide listings of new construction and re-sale properties in Mexico, offering buyers:

• Exclusive listings
• Up-to-date project details
• Verified developer information

All in one convenient platform, ensuring a seamless and informed property search experience.

Yes, Mexico imposes property taxes, known as “Predial.” These taxes are paid annually and are significantly lower than those in countries like the U.S. or Canada.


Key Facts:

• Property tax rates typically range from 0.05% to 0.2% of the assessed property value per year.
• Rates vary based on location and municipal regulations.
• Many buyers are pleasantly surprised by the affordability of property ownership in Mexico.