Yes, foreigners can own property in Mexico. However, in restricted zones near coastlines (50 km/31 miles) or borders (100 km/62 miles), ownership requires a bank trust (fideicomiso) or a Mexican corporation.

A fideicomiso is a bank trust where a Mexican bank holds the property title on behalf of the foreign buyer, who retains full ownership rights, including selling, leasing, or passing it to heirs.

If purchasing property for commercial purposes, a Mexican corporation can be established, allowing foreigners to hold property without a fideicomiso.

• Private Property: Owned by individuals or businesses, freely bought, sold, or leased.

• Ejido Land: Communal land primarily for agriculture; purchasing ejido property can be risky due to unclear ownership rights.

• Restricted Zone Property: Requires a fideicomiso or a Mexican corporation for foreign ownership.

• Title Search: Ensure a clear title, free of liens or disputes.

• Property Taxes: Verify there are no outstanding tax liabilities.

• Zoning & Permits: Confirm zoning laws and obtain required construction permits.

• Notary Public: A notary is legally required to validate and register property transactions.

• Escrow Accounts: Use an escrow service for secure transactions.

• Document Verification: Ensure all legal documents, including the deed and tax records, are legitimate.

Fraudulent listings, forged documents, and fake ownership claims are common risks. To protect your investment:

• Work with a trusted legal expert to verify property legitimacy.

• Avoid direct transactions with unverified sellers.

• Use secure escrow services to manage funds safely.

Navigating Mexico’s real estate laws can be complex, especially for foreign buyers. Encinas & Associates Law Firm specializes in guiding international clients through: ✔ Conducting due diligence ✔ Ensuring compliance with Mexican law ✔ Drafting and reviewing contracts ✔ Protecting your investment from legal risks

For personalized legal assistance in your property purchase, Contact Encinas & Associates.