If you are wondering how difficult it is and how long it takes to buy a home in Mexico, you’ve come to the right place! Recent estimates show there are more than one million expats who live in Mexico either full or part time, and most of them own at least one piece of real estate. Thankfully, the process for buying property in Mexico is easy and straightforward, so just make sure you take the time to do your due diligence and work with a trusted real estate professional who can help you make smart decisions as a buyer and help you buy a home safely.
“Mexico real estate has a lot to offer in terms of great weather, beautiful scenery and authentic Latin American culture, plus you will find lots of affordable real estate in Mexico,” wrote International Living. “Mexico has it all… Rich culture, perfect climate, affordable living… Not to mention mountains, beaches, deserts and just about everything in between.”
How long it takes to buy a home will depend at least in part on how many different properties you view before finding the right one, but the process of buying real estate in Mexico is usually quite straightforward and can typically be completed within 30-60 days or less. Owning property in Mexico has appealed to expats from the US, Canada and beyond for decades, since its location offers easy access to everything that the world’s top vacation destinations have to offer, without wasting as much time traveling.
The property market in Mexico is generally strong and on the rise, while the nation’s economy has also proven to be resilient and has remained strong even in the face of global turmoil over the last few decades. In fact, Mexico’s economy has grown more swiftly in recent years than economists previously expected, prompting international buyers and investors to rush in and buy up land that is ripe for development. This has turned out to be really good news for most buyers today, because there is ample inventory and we have plenty of great deals on gorgeous condos and villas on or near the beach!
“Whether you dream of a colonial home with graceful arches, thick walls, and a garden overflowing with pink bougainvillea; a lazy beachfront retreat where you can sit on your front porch with your feet propped up and watch the Caribbean roll up on the sand; or a dramatic Pacific coast lookout where the waters crash against the cliffs below and you can watch the sun set behind a watery horizon – you can find your dream home in Mexico,” wrote International Living.
What is the Cost of Real Estate in Mexico?
Although real estate prices in Mexico vary quite a bit from place to place, the cost of a home on the beach is typically about the same as a comparable property that is located in a great neighborhood in a major city. Generally speaking, you should expect to spend at least $150k for a really nice one-bedroom condo in a top beach destination like Playa del Carmen or in one of Mexico City’s most desirable neighborhoods. It’s also important to note that buyers typically get more for their money with Mexico real estate, so expect to enjoy luxe finishes and all the latest amenities for that price!
To buy a home in Mexico that will perfectly suit your personal needs, be sure to find an experienced local real estate advisor who can help you locate a property that checks all the boxes. He or she should have the “inside scoop” on the local property market and should be able to present you with a variety of properties in your budget. Don’t be afraid to ask for references and look for someone who has taken the time to develop strong relationships in your desired area.
Here are a few other tips to help you find a great property in Mexico:
- Understand the market. As a foreigner, the prices to buy a home in Mexico may not make sense at first glance, so take some time to get familiar with the local housing market in the areas you are interested in.
- Work with a local professional. As good as the internet is, it can’t help you understand the pros and cons of a particular developer, development or neighborhood. An experienced local real estate advisor can look after yours and your families best interests.
- Never mail money. If the person selling you property is not willing to carry out the transaction face to face, keep looking!
- Hire an attorney. Working with an English speaking Mexican attorney can help remove a lot of the guesswork from the buying process. Along with your real estate agent, your attorney will work to protect your interests and make sure the process is moving along accordingly.
Do you have any other questions about buying a home in Mexico? Post them in the comments!