A U.S. Citizen’s Guide to Buying Real Estate in Mexico
A U.S. Citizen’s Guide to Buying Real Estate in Mexico
Exploring Ownership, Legal Requirements, and the Most Popular Places to Invest
As U.S. citizens increasingly seek lifestyle changes, second homes, or investment properties abroad, Mexico has emerged as a top destination—and for good reason. From sun-soaked beaches to culturally rich towns, the country offers not only geographical proximity to the U.S. but also affordable living, warm communities, and diverse real estate options.
But how does the buying process work for foreigners? Do you truly own the land? And where should you invest?
Why Mexico?
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Close to Home: Direct flights from the U.S. to nearly every major Mexican city make travel seamless.
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Favorable Cost of Living: Lower property taxes, utility costs, and service rates make ownership more affordable than in the U.S.
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Expat-Friendly: Large and growing expat communities exist in cities like San Miguel de Allende, Puerto Vallarta, and Tulum.
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Variety of Properties: Whether you prefer a beachfront condo, a mountain retreat, or a historic colonial home, Mexico delivers.
Can U.S. Citizens Own Property in Mexico?
Yes—but with a unique legal structure in certain areas.
✅ Direct Ownership
If the property is located outside of Mexico’s “restricted zones”—which include areas within 50 km (31 miles) of the coast and 100 km (62 miles) of the borders—U.S. citizens can own property outright and directly under their name.
✅ Fideicomiso (Bank Trust)
For properties within restricted zones (like Cancun, Cabo, or Puerto Vallarta), foreigners must purchase through a fideicomiso:
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A fideicomiso is a bank trust that holds the title on behalf of the buyer.
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The buyer retains full rights to occupy, lease, sell, or will the property.
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The trust is valid for 50 years and can be renewed indefinitely.
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It's 100% legal and widely used by foreign buyers.
Alternatively, you can buy through a Mexican corporation if the purchase is for business or rental income purposes.
What’s the Buying Process Like?
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Choose a Reputable Real Estate Agent
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Work with an agent familiar with expat transactions and bilingual documentation.
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Secure a Notary & Legal Counsel
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Notaries in Mexico are key legal authorities in real estate transactions. An independent attorney can also review the deal.
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Make an Offer & Sign a Promissory Agreement
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Often includes a deposit of 5–10%.
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Set Up the Fideicomiso (If Applicable)
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Your lawyer or notary will help coordinate with a Mexican bank to set this up.
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Due Diligence & Final Closing
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A title search is conducted, taxes are calculated, and all documents are signed in front of the notary.
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Closing costs typically range from 5% to 8% of the property’s value.
Most Popular Areas for U.S. Buyers
| Region | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Tulum | Eco-luxury living, modern condos, proximity to cenotes and the Caribbean. |
| Puerto Vallarta | Beachfront living, established expat community, vibrant food scene. |
| San Miguel de Allende | UNESCO World Heritage site, colonial charm, art and culture hub. |
| Playa del Carmen | Walkable beach town, nightlife, great for vacation rentals. |
| Los Cabos | Upscale beachfront villas, golf resorts, and fishing culture. |
| Lake Chapala | Large U.S. and Canadian expat population, great climate. |
Final Thoughts: Why “The ITA Global Way” Matters
Buying property internationally isn’t just about the transaction—it’s about the experience and peace of mind. At ITA Global, we’ve designed a tailor-made, worry-free process for investors and buyers:
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Explore firsthand through curated real estate discovery trips
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Gain access to vetted properties and local developers
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Rely on a trusted team guiding you through every legal step
There’s only one way to buy international real estate—the ITA Global Way.
Contact Us: RealEstate@itaglobal.com | www.itaglobal.com | ITA GLOBAL NETWORK
