US BUYER GUIDE · MEXICO
How US citizens buy property in Mexico
Yes, you can own property in Mexico as a US citizen. Yes, it's safe when done correctly. Here are the actual steps — the fiduciario, the notary, the taxes — explained without the folklore.
The 5-step process
Bank trust (fideicomiso) for restricted zones
Property within 50 km of the coast or 100 km of a border must be held in a bank trust. The bank owns the title on your behalf; you legally control and can sell or pass it to heirs. Outside those zones, you can hold title directly.
Title search & due diligence
We verify the land title at the Public Registry of Property (RPP), confirm no liens or encumbrances, confirm the seller actually owns the land, and check zoning. This happens before you pay a single peso toward the property.
Notary involvement
A Mexican notary (notario público) prepares and authenticates the deed of sale. The notary's fees are regulated and a percentage of the property value — we itemize them in USD before you commit.
Closing costs & taxes
Expect acquisition tax (ISAI), notary fees, appraisal, and miscellaneous registration costs — typically 5–7% of the purchase price. We give you the full number in writing beforehand.
Escrow for presales
For new construction bought pre-download, your deposit goes into escrow and construction milestones are tracked with documented evidence before the next payment releases.
What to watch for
- Pressure to wire money to an individual 'agent's' account
- Prices quoted only in USD 'trust us' with no exchange date
- Refusal to show the registered land title (escritura)
- 'Guaranteed rental returns' written nowhere in a contract
Non-negotiable checklist
- Verify the developer's track record & references
- Get every figure in writing in MXN and USD
- Hire independent Mexican legal counsel
- Confirm the escrow/trust structure before depositing
Ready to explore a safe Mexico purchase?
Start with a free call — no flights, no deposits, no pressure.