Mexico Living · FAQ
Everything foreign buyers ask us most about purchasing and living in Yucatán. Don't see your question? Ask us directly.
Yes. Inland — including almost all of Yucatán state and the city of Mérida — foreigners buy freehold in their own name. Within roughly 50 km of the coast, ownership is held through a fideicomiso, a renewable bank trust that grants full rights to use, rent, sell and inherit.
A trust set up with a Mexican bank that holds title on your behalf. You are the sole beneficiary with complete control. It runs in 50-year terms, is renewable indefinitely, and can name heirs — avoiding probate.
No. You can purchase as a tourist. Residency is a separate immigration process many owners pursue later; we can refer you to trusted help.
Typically 5–8% of the purchase price: notary fees, acquisition tax (ISABI), registration, and — on the coast — fideicomiso setup. We provide a written estimate before you commit.
The notario público, a state-appointed lawyer who verifies title, checks for liens, confirms zoning and taxes, and formalizes the deed. Funds move through escrow, never hand-to-hand.
No — Mexican property tax (predial) is very low by US/Canadian standards, often a few hundred dollars a year, and there are discounts for paying early in the year.
Our advisory and search service for buyers is free — we are compensated through the standard seller-paid commission. You get representation without an extra bill.
Absolutely. We run live video tours, send full document packs, and coordinate the entire process remotely. Many of our buyers close before they ever move.
Mérida and its metro area, the Yucatán Gulf coast (Sisal, Chelem, Progreso, Telchac), and the Riviera Maya. If you are torn between zones, we help you compare.