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FAQ

FAQ | America Samuels International Real Estate

Buying · Investing · Selling · Relocating in Mexico with Confidence.

Can foreigners legally buy property in Mexico?

Yes. Foreigners can legally buy property anywhere in Mexico. Inside restricted coastal or border zones, ownership is held through a bank trust (fideicomiso), giving you full legal rights to use, sell, lease, or will the property.

What is a fideicomiso and how does it work?

A fideicomiso is a renewable 50-year bank trust that allows foreigners to legally own property within Mexico’s restricted zones areas located within 50 km (31 mi) of the coast or 100 km (62 mi) of the borders.

The bank acts as the trustee, but you remain the beneficiary with full ownership rights, giving you the freedom to sell, lease, remodel, or pass the property to your heirs at any time.

Do I need Mexican residency to buy?

No. Residency is not required — just a valid passport.

Can I apply for a mortgage in Mexico?

Yes! While most property purchases in Mexico are cash or developer-financed, there are mortgage options available for foreigners, dual citizens, and Mexican nationals.

Foreign buyers can apply even without residency, though having a temporary or permanent visa may open up additional loan options and better terms.

Dual citizens can apply with any Mexican bank, and the same applies to foreigners with a valid visa  even if their income is from the U.S.

I work closely with trusted lenders who specialize in helping international clients finance property in Mexico, and I can connect you with the best option based on your profile and goals. 

What are typical closing costs?

Expect around 6–8% of the purchase price, including notary fees, government taxes, registration, and trust setup.

How long does closing take?

Closings in Mexico typically take 30 to 60 days for move-in ready properties, depending on the notary and paperwork involved. For pre-construction properties, the process can take longer  it usually depends on the developer’s timeline and the project’s completion stage.

What documents are required to buy?

You’ll need your passport, proof of address, Social Security Number (U.S.) or Social Insurance Number (Canada), and your occupation information.

If you’re purchasing through a fideicomiso (bank trust), your notary will assist with the bank trust application and guide you through all required documentation.

Depending on your situation, you may also need your birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), Mexican visa, and beneficiary details for the fideicomiso.

Dual citizens or Mexican nationals may also be required to provide their RFC, CURP, and INE.

Can I own property with my spouse or through a company?

Yes. Married couples can be joint beneficiaries, and investors often buy through a Mexican corporation for multiple holdings.

Are home inspections common in Mexico?

Home inspections are not common or required in Mexico like they are in the U.S. or Canada. Most local buyers rely on the notary’s legal review, developer warranties, and personal walkthroughs.

However, foreign buyers typically request an inspection for added peace of mind, and it can be arranged privately. I can connect you with trusted local inspectors if you’d like one.

Can I buy remotely with Power of Attorney (POA)?

Yes. I coordinate remote closings via POA with bilingual attorneys and notaries.

Are prices listed in USD or MXN?

Most coastal and luxury properties are listed in USD. Locally, listings may appear in pesos (MXN).

Can I use escrow for added security?

Yes, I always recommend a verified escrow company to securely manage funds.

How do I transfer money for my property purchase?

Funds can be sent several ways depending on your situation:

  • Escrow account (recommended for added security)
  • Wire transfer directly to the developer or seller
  • Mexican bank account, if you have one (a visa is typically required to open an account)

Most international buyers choose to wire funds directly from their U.S. or foreign bank. Your bank will usually charge a small international wire fee (around $30 USD), depending on the institution.

I’ll always guide you through the safest and most convenient method based on your transaction type and the parties involved. 

What is Seller Financing?

Seller (or developer) financing is when the developer allows you to pay for your property in stages, instead of getting a traditional mortgage.

Typically, you’ll pay a small reservation deposit, then a down payment (15–30%), and the rest through monthly payments during construction with the balance due at closing once the project is complete.

It’s a great option for buyers who prefer flexible payments or who don’t want to have a mortgage set up in Mexico. I always review each payment plan with my clients to make sure it fits their goals and timeline. 

Is it safe to buy pre-construction?

Yes, when working with reputable developers and proper legal oversight. I personally verify permits and documentation 

How do I verify a developer’s permits?

Developers must have land title, environmental, and construction permits. I confirm these directly with notaries and lawyers.

What payment structures are common (25/15/60, etc.)?

A typical structure is 25% down, 15% during construction, and 60% at delivery, though this varies.

What happens if construction is delayed?

Contracts include delivery timelines and penalties — I ensure these are clearly reviewed before signing.

Are pre-construction prices negotiable?

Sometimes, especially for early or cash buyers.

When do I receive my title?

Your title (escritura pública) is issued once the notary completes the official registration with the Public Registry. Timelines vary by state and typically range from 30–90 days after closing.

Are furniture or appliances included?

It depends on the development and location. In Quintana Roo (areas like Tulum or Playa del Carmen), it’s more common to find turnkey projects that include furniture and appliances.

In Yucatán, most new developments are delivered unfurnished, and some may even exclude cabinetry, closets, or certain finishes. However, higher-end or luxury projects often include built-ins, full kitchens, and select appliances.

I’ll always confirm what’s included with each property so you know exactly what to expect before purchasing. 

What warranties do new developments offer?

Most developers provide a 1-year construction warranty and up to 5 years on structural elements.

Who is the Notario Público and why is this role important?

In Mexico, the Notario Público is a government-appointed attorney who plays a key role in every real estate transaction. They’re responsible for making sure your purchase is legal, transparent, and properly registered with the Public Registry of Property.

Closings in Mexico take place at the notary’s office, which is similar to a title company in the U.S., but with more legal authority. The notary reviews all documents, verifies ownership, checks for liens or unpaid taxes, and ensures everything complies with Mexican law before finalizing the deed.

Do I need a lawyer if there’s already a notary?

Yes. The notary’s role is to certify and register the transaction, while a lawyer provides legal advice, reviews your contracts, negotiates on your behalf, and ensures your interests are protected. They perform different functions and complement each other.

What does the notary verify during closing?

They confirm property title, liens, permits, and tax compliance before transferring ownership.

How is ownership registered?

Your escritura pública (deed) is recorded in the Public Registry of Property.

Can I name beneficiaries for inheritance?

Yes. You can include beneficiaries in your fideicomiso or deed to ensure a smooth transfer.

Is title insurance available in Mexico?

Yes. Title insurance is available in Mexico through select companies. However, it is not commonly used, because Mexican notaries conduct a very thorough legal review of the property’s title during the closing process. Title insurance is optional and is typically chosen by foreign buyers seeking an additional layer of protection.

What taxes do I pay at closing?

Transfer tax , notary fees, trust setup, and registration costs.

How much are annual property taxes (Predial)?

Very low compared to the U.S. — typically between $100 and $300 USD annually.

What is ISR (capital gains tax)?

ISR, or Impuesto Sobre la Renta, is a capital gains tax on the profit made when selling a property in Mexico.

For foreigners, it’s typically 25% of the total sale amount or up to 35% of the net profit, depending on how the notary calculates it and which option applies.

Your notary will review your case and determine the best calculation method to ensure compliance and minimize taxes whenever possible.

Can I qualify for a capital gains exemption?

Yes — Mexican residents and dual citizens may qualify for a capital gains (ISR) exemption if the property is their primary home.

To qualify, you’ll need to have a valid Mexican visa, an RFC (Mexican tax ID), and meet certain requirements established by the notary and tax authorities. This exemption can only be applied once every three years and must be on your main residence in Mexico.

Your notary will review your documents and confirm if you qualify at the time of closing.

Do I need an RFC (Mexican Tax ID)?

For most property purchases in Mexico, you do not always need an RFC. Many foreigners can buy property without one.  
However, you’ll need an RFC if you plan to rent out the property, earn income in Mexico, or claim capital-gains exemptions when you sell.  

If you already have an RFC or choose to apply, it can make things easier but it’s not strictly required for every transaction.

Can home improvements reduce capital gains taxes?

Yes — keep official invoices (facturas) for improvements.

Do rental owners pay income tax or IVA?

Yes. Long-term rentals pay income tax; short-term rentals may also pay IVA (16%).

Do I need a Mexican accountant (contador)?

Recommended. I can connect you with trusted bilingual accountants.

How do I repatriate funds after selling?

Your notary or escrow agent can wire funds abroad once taxes are cleared.

What kind of ROI can I expect?

Short-term rentals in key destinations can yield 8–12% annually.

Yucatán, Riviera Maya, and Los Cabos remain strong appreciation zones.

How do property management and insurance work?

I connect clients with management companies and insurance brokers.

Can I reinvest profits to buy another property?

Absolutely — many clients expand their portfolios across Mexico.

Can foreigners sell property?

Yes. The process mirrors buying — handled by a notary, lawyer, and optional escrow.

What documents are needed to sell?

Your deed, RFC, property tax receipts, Passport or Visa.

How long does closing take?

Typically 30–60 days once under contract.

What is the typical commission?

Usually around 6%, paid by the seller.

After Closing: What’s Next?

Once you’ve closed, my support doesn’t end  it truly just begins. 

After all the papers are signed, I’ll still be here to make sure everything flows smoothly and you feel at peace with your next steps. Whether it’s connecting you with trusted local professionals, helping you with post-closing details, or simply checking in to make sure you’re settling in well, you’ll never have to navigate anything alone.

If your property is in Mexico, I’ll make sure you receive all your final documents, guide you on next steps with the notary, and connect you with reliable professionals for property management, rentals, or anything you might need to feel completely at home.

If your transaction was in the U.S., I’ll help you with local recommendations, service connections, and anything else that makes your transition simple and stress-free.

Whether you’ve bought, sold, or invested, my goal is to make sure you feel cared for long after closing. Because for me, it’s never just about the transaction — it’s about the relationship. And that connection continues with care, gratitude, and genuine heart.

Why work with me?

Because for me, this is so much more than real estate  it’s about trust, purpose, and genuine connection.

When you work with me, you’re not just getting a realtor… you’re getting someone who truly listens, cares deeply, and treats your goals as if they were my own. Whether you’re buying your first home, investing abroad, or relocating to Mexico, I’ll be by your side through every step guiding you with honesty, simplicity, and heart.

My mission is to make your journey clear, peaceful, and inspired to help you not only find a property, but step into the life you’ve been dreaming of. And if you’re moving to another country, I want you to feel completely supported and at peace through the entire process.

With experience in cross-border transactions, trusted relationships with lawyers, lenders, developers, and a deep understanding of both the U.S. and Mexico markets, I bridge two worlds so you can move forward with confidence.

More than anything, I believe real estate should feel personal and meaningful. I’m truly passionate about what I do. Every client becomes part of my story and it’s a true honor to be part of yours.