Five documents to review before buying property in Mexico

Reviewing the right documents before buying property in Mexico is the best way to protect your investment. Before you sign a promissory agreement or pay a deposit in Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta or anywhere in the Riviera Nayarit, review at least these five documents.

1. Deed and title history

The deed confirms who the owner is and how the property was acquired. We also review previous deeds to detect errors, pending inheritances or sales that were never properly formalized.

2. Lien certificate

Issued by the Public Property Registry, it shows whether there are mortgages, attachments or other limitations recorded. It must be recent and requested again close to closing.

3. Property tax and water up to date

Unpaid property tax and water bills can follow the property. Ask for no-debt certificates and make sure everything is paid before the deed is signed.

4. Land use and permits

The land-use certificate confirms that your intended use is allowed: residential, vacation rental, retail or office. For recent construction, also review the building permit and the completion notice.

5. Condominium regime

If you are buying a condo or a home in a gated community, review the condominium deed, the bylaws, the maintenance fees and a no-debt letter from the administration.

What if you are a foreigner?

Besides these documents, you will need a permit from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a bank trust with a Mexican bank. We explain the full process in our guide to the restricted zone bank trust.

Conclusion

A professional review helps you detect risks in time, negotiate with full information and reach closing without surprises. If you already have a property in mind, we can review its documents before you sign.