Can foreigners buy a house in Mexico?

Foreigners can legally own a home in Mexico using a bank trust for restricted coastal and border zones. Due diligence is essential when buying property – hire a notario público (notary public) and verify land title before purchase.

How long can I stay in Mexico if I buy a house?

How long can I stay in Mexico if I buy a house? Homebuyers in Mexico are typically able to apply for a temporary resident visa, allowing them to live in Mexico for up to four years.

Can I buy a house in Mexico without being a resident?

Yes, a person of any nationality can legally buy real estate in Mexico. However, to purchase property within the restricted zone, (50 kilometers or 31 miles from the shoreline) foreigners are required to purchase property through a bank trust (fideicomiso) or by establishing a Mexican corporation.

What are the requirements to buy a home in Mexico?

The legal requirements for buying a home in Mexico involve providing identification documents, proof of funds and obtaining a visa (or a temporary residency permit). If the property is located in a restricted zone, you'll need to establish a fideicomiso and be granted permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Do I have to pay taxes if I buy a house in Mexico?

Early payments made in January or February may be eligible for discounts, which vary by state but can be up to 20%. Additionally, buyers are subject to a property acquisition tax when acquiring property in Mexico. The tax varies by state and typically ranges from 2% to 5% of the property's assessed value.

How To Buy Real Estate In Mexico Step By Step As A Foreigner

What is the safest place to live in Mexico?

1. Mérida, Yucatán. Mérida is one of the few major cities in Mexico where over 70% of residents say they feel safe walking alone in their neighborhoods, according to survey. This rate stands out when compared to the national average, which remains below 40% in many urban areas.

Is buying property in Mexico a good idea?

Property prices in Mexico are pretty low when compared to many other countries. You can get more for your money this way. A lot of foreigners are surprised by how far their money can go here. For a lot less money than you would pay in the U.S. or Europe, you can find beautiful houses and condos in great spots.

How much are mortgage rates in Mexico?

As of July 2025, Mexico's average fixed mortgage rates range from 9% to 12%, with the Banco de México's benchmark rate projected to decrease further toward 6% by 2026. For foreigners, cross-border loans from a broker like Global Mortgage (MoXi) offer competitive rates around 7-9% in USD.

How much money do you need to make a house in Mexico?

On average, the cost of a house in Mexico ranges from $100,000 to $500,000 USD (not including the land since usually it comes separately). However, beachfront properties and those located in popular tourist destinations can be significantly more expensive.

How long can you live in Mexico without residency?

What is Mexico's temporary residency permit? Temporary residency enables foreigners to remain in Mexico beyond the maximum 180-day time limit imposed with the visitor visa and also gives them access to certain residency privileges; for example, opening a bank account here which you cannot do as a visitor.

Can I buy beachfront property in Mexico?

Fideicomiso: your key to coastal ownership. If you're wondering, "Can an American own land in Mexico's beachfront areas?" – the fideicomiso is the answer. It legally enables Americans to purchase land within restricted zones that would otherwise be off-limits. The fideicomiso lasts 50 years and is renewable.

How hard is it to get Mexican citizenship?

You must be at least 18 years old. Mexican naturalization also requires you to hold legal residency (temporary or permanent) for at least five years. 2 years if you are married to a Mexican citizen or have a Mexican child. You also need to have a clean criminal record.

Do you own the land when you buy a house in Mexico?

Under the fideicomiso arrangement, a Mexican bank holds legal title to the property on behalf of the foreign buyer. The buyer, as the beneficiary of the trust, retains full control, use, and enjoyment of the property.

Is investing in Mexico a good idea?

In addition to being very open to foreign direct investment, the country is very well integrated into the world economic order: it is a member of NAFTA, OECD, G20 and the Pacific Alliance. It enjoys a strategic geographic location and acts as a transit platform to North America and Latin America.

How long can UK residence stay in Mexico?

The visa issued at the Mexican Embassy in London is a single-entry visa, valid up to 180 days and will allow the holder to enter Mexico to exchange it for a Temporary Resident Card within 30 days of arrival in Mexico, at the nearest migration office (INM).

Is it hard to get a mortgage in Mexico?

Getting a mortgage in Mexico can be a complicated process for US citizens. You'll need to understand the nuances of Mexico's mortgage application process. Make sure to look into any additional costs and fees for your loan, such as notary fees and Property Acquisition Tax.

What is the interest rate in Mexico right now?

Mexico's central bank cuts target rate to 7.75pc. Mexico's central bank lowered its target interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point to 7.75pc, its lowest since June 2022, signaling a slower pace to the current rate cut cycle on inflation concerns.

How many years is a mortgage in Mexico?

While the trust agreement is indeed set up for an initial term of 50 years, it can be renewed indefinitely, ensuring that the property can stay within your family for generations. Ensuring the security of your property purchase in Mexico is paramount.

Is it better to rent or buy a house in Mexico?

Renting suits those looking for flexibility or short-term stays, while buying is often a better fit for those planning to settle long-term and invest in Mexico's real estate market. Each option has its good and bad sides. However, you should choose what's best for you.

Do you pay property tax in Mexico?

Another tax requirement for homebuyers in Mexico is the annual property tax, called Predial. This tax must be paid annually and is due no later than March 31. On a positive note, this amount is usually low and is calculated based on the size and location of the property you're buying.

Is moving to Mexico a good idea?

The lower cost of living and easier access to affordable, quality healthcare are some of the top reasons why expats choose Mexico. But, following closely behind, are the better weather, the culture, and the food. It's relatively warm throughout the year, and in places such as Los Cabos, it's downright boiling.

What is the process of buying land in Mexico?

How much does a house cost in rural Mexico?

That being said, now it's a good time to buy real estate in Mexico. A basic home in Mexico costs about 1,800,000 to 2,160,000 MXN ($100,000–$120,000), ideal for first-time buyers or those on a budget. Mid-range homes with more space and amenities cost 2,000,000 to 4,000,000 MXN ($116,000–$232,000).