Closing costs when buying property in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

Closing costs in Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit are the expenses the buyer pays to formalize a property purchase before a notary. As a reference, they usually represent between 4% and 7% of the property value. Knowing them from the start avoids surprises on signing day.

What do closing costs include?

Acquisition tax

A municipal tax calculated on the highest of the price, the appraisal and the cadastral value. Each municipality sets its own rate; in the area it is usually around 2%.

Appraisal

A certified appraiser determines the property value, which is required to calculate taxes.

Notary fees and registration

They cover drafting the deed, calculating and paying taxes and recording it in the Public Property Registry.

Certificates

Lien certificate, no-debt letters for property tax and water and, if applicable, a letter from the condominium administration.

Additional costs for foreigners

If you buy through a bank trust, add the Ministry of Foreign Affairs permit, the trustee bank’s set-up fee and an annual administration fee.

Who pays what?

In general, the buyer pays the closing costs and the seller pays any capital gains tax and the real estate commission. Everything should be clear in the promissory agreement.

How to prepare your budget

• Ask the notary or your attorney for a preliminary calculation with the real transaction value.
• Leave a margin for tax or appraisal updates.
• Review the property documents early to avoid delays.

At B Legal & Business we give you a detailed estimate of closing costs in Puerto Vallarta before you sign, so you can decide with complete information.