Can Foreigners Own Property in Mexico?
Yes. Foreigners can legally own property in Mexico, including homes, condos, land, and investment properties. In coastal areas such as Baja California Sur, ownership is commonly structured through a Mexican bank trust called a fideicomiso.
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Foreigners can legally buy property in Mexico. In Baja California Sur, including Los Cabos, La Paz, Loreto, East Cape, Cerritos, and Todos Santos, most foreign buyers use a fideicomiso to own coastal property safely and legally.
What Is Mexico’s Restricted Zone?
Mexico’s restricted zone includes property located within approximately 50 kilometers of the coastline and 100 kilometers of international borders. Since most of Baja California Sur is coastal, many foreign buyers use a fideicomiso when purchasing real estate here.
What Is a Fideicomiso?
A fideicomiso is a Mexican bank trust that allows foreign buyers to hold full ownership rights over property in the restricted zone. The bank acts as trustee, but the buyer keeps the practical rights to use, sell, rent, remodel, transfer, or pass the property to heirs.
You Can Sell
You can sell the property when you choose, subject to normal transaction requirements.
You Can Rent
You may rent the property, depending on HOA rules, zoning, and local regulations.
You Can Inherit
Beneficiaries can be named within the trust structure.
You Keep Control
The bank does not control your lifestyle, use, or investment decisions.
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▶ Watch on YouTubeCan Foreigners Buy Land in Mexico?
Yes. Foreigners can purchase residential lots, development parcels, and land opportunities in Mexico. However, land requires careful due diligence, especially in Baja California Sur.
Before Buying Land, Verify:
- Legal title and ownership history
- Property boundaries and survey
- Road access and legal access rights
- Water, electricity, and infrastructure availability
- Zoning and land-use restrictions
- Environmental and coastal regulations
Typical Closing Costs in Baja California Sur
Closing costs vary depending on the property, location, and transaction structure. As a general planning range, many buyers should expect approximately 4% to 8% of the purchase price.
- Notary fees
- Transfer tax
- Public Registry fees
- Fideicomiso setup fees
- Legal review
- Appraisal and administrative costs
Why International Buyers Choose Baja California Sur
Los Cabos
Luxury lifestyle, golf, resorts, international flights, and strong rental demand.
La Paz
Balanced lifestyle, calmer pace, full-time living, and access to the Sea of Cortez.
Loreto
Small-town charm, boating, nature, and peaceful coastal living.
East Cape
Privacy, land, ocean views, adventure, and long-term growth potential.
Need Help Buying Property in Baja California Sur?
Tell me a little about your plans. I’ll help you understand your options in Los Cabos, La Paz, Loreto, East Cape, Todos Santos, Cerritos, and other Baja Sur communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Americans buy property in Mexico?
Yes. Americans can legally buy property in Mexico. In coastal areas, ownership is commonly structured through a fideicomiso.
Can Canadians buy property in Mexico?
Yes. Canadians can legally own property in Mexico under the same rules that apply to other foreign buyers.
Is a fideicomiso safe?
Yes. A fideicomiso is a common legal structure used by foreign buyers to own property in Mexico’s restricted zone.
Can foreigners inherit property in Mexico?
Yes. Beneficiaries can be named within the trust, making inheritance planning clearer.
Should I hire an attorney?
Yes. Independent legal review is strongly recommended before buying real estate in Mexico, especially land or pre-construction property.
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