How to Buy a House in Mexico

Foreign Investment & Buying Process Overview

Mexico offers a legally protected and well-established framework for foreign real estate investment, making coastal communities such as Boca de Tomatlán attractive for international buyers seeking long-term value, rental income, or appreciation.
Foreigners are legally permitted to purchase property in Mexico. The ownership structure depends on the property’s location

Foreigners are legally permitted to purchase property in Mexico. The ownership structure depends on the property’s location

ownership structure

Within restricted Zones

Within restricted Zones (coastal and border areas): Property is acquired through a Mexican bank trust (fideicomiso) or a Mexican legal entity if structured for commercial use.

Outside restricted Zones

(more than 50 km from the coast or 100 km from international borders): Property may be purchased directly in the buyer’s name.

Boca de Tomatlán is located within the restricted coastal zone, making the fideicomiso the standard and most widely used ownership structure for foreign buyers.

Step-By-Step Closing Process

Comprehensive Property Review

A full legal review is conducted to identify any liens, encumbrances, or obligations tied to the property.

Purchase Agreement Execution

Agreements can be signed in person or electronically using secure platforms such as DocuSign.

Setting the Closing Date

A closing date is scheduled once all requirements outlined in the purchase agreement are satisfied.

Strategic Transaction Planning

Legal professionals outline pricing, payment structure, property details, timelines, and contractual obligations.

Coordination with Key Professionals

The transaction progresses toward the final deed with involvement from notaries, banks, appraisers, and trust administrators.

Final Closing & Ownership Transfer

The deed is signed before a notary, payment is completed, and ownership is officially transferred to the buyer.

Investor Requirements

Foreign buyers typically need:

Valid passport
Proof of address outside Mexico
Immigration form (Mexican residency not required)
Mexican tax ID (RFC), obtainable with professional assistance
Execution of the fideicomiso with an authorized Mexican bank
Payment of applicable transfer taxes, notary fees, and registration costs

Title / Legal / Closing Process Information

Bank Trust (Fideicomiso) Structure

A fideicomiso is a government-regulated legal instrument where a Mexican bank holds the title on behalf of the foreign buyer. The buyer maintains full control and ownership rights, including the ability to:

Secure Transaction Framework

Mexico’s real estate system relies on:

This structure ensures legal certainty, proper title registration, and long-term security for both personal and income-producing investments in high-demand coastal markets like Boca de Tomatlán.