Tulum Real Estate

Yes. Foreigners can own property in Tulum via a “fideicomiso”: a trust with a Mexican bank facilitated by a notary. The bank acts as a trustee and follows instructions from the property owner. Via this arrangement, foreigners can have all rights to use, occupy, lease, build, improve, and sell their property. On average, it takes 60 to 90 days to complete a property purchase. Tulum Land & Property works closely with a trusted team of lawyers and notaries who ensure that all legal processes proceed smoothly.Another way of owning property in Tulum is by creating a Mexican corporation. This is recommended when investors plan to own several properties. 

Most pre-construction properties require a refundable deposit of $5,000 USD to secure the unit. Our properties are in high demand so this deposit secures the unit while contracts are drafted. Typically buyers make a down payment of 30% but larger down payments lead to larger discounts. The rest of the payments are made according to negotiable payment plans spreading the cost over the construction time, allowing investors to enjoy better liquidity before delivery.

For foreigners investing in Mexico, the best way to obtain finance is to do so at home. In the US, you may take a Home Equity Loan or Home Equity Line of Credit (click here). Buyers are able to repay their monthly loan payments with rental income from their vacation rental. During the high season in Tulum, a two-bedroom apartment can rent for up to $500 USD per night and villas can command over $1,000 USD per night. Financing in Mexico is typically 8%-9% plus fees and involves a lengthy process.

Closing costs are typically 7% of the property value. This includes the acquisition tax, recordation fee, certificate of no liens, municipal appraisal, legal and closing fees, and public notary fees. The yearly property tax in Mexico is typically 0.1% of the property value. HOA fees typically start from $2.5 USD per square meter per month depending on the amenities included. The cost of furniture and appliances must also be considered in your budget. Our team of experts can help you understand these costs, schedule a call with us to get started (click here).

To ensure a property has a clear title, conduct a title search through a reputable notary or legal professional. This process verifies that the seller has legal ownership and that there are no liens or encumbrances on the property. Working with experienced local professionals can help navigate this process.

Tulum is safe. Recent data shows that the crime index is in fact lower in Tulum than in major cities of the United States, such as Miami (see here). Occasional violent incidents usually do not involve foreigners and tourists, but are rather restricted to disputes between cartels. As for every destination prized by tourists, the usual precautions do apply in Tulum when it comes to irregular activities and behaviour. Many tips are available on forums for first-time travellers to Mexico on how to avoid scams and theft (example here).

Many of the condos and villas sold in Tulum come with amenities, depending on the location. Usual amenities include: pool, spa, rooftop, fitness and yoga centre, co-working space, etc.