The Ultimate Guide to Buying Property in Mexico

by Justin Keltner  - May 15, 2025

If you’re dreaming about living in Mexico, starting a business, or building a more flexible life abroad—you’re not alone. Every single day, around 100 properties are sold to foreigners, with Americans making up the majority, followed by Canadians, Europeans, Brazilians, and global investors.

Whether you’re looking for a place to call home, a base for your remote business, or a smart real estate investment, buying property in Mexico can unlock a lifestyle of freedom, affordability, and opportunity.


Why Mexico Is More Than Just a Vacation Destination

Mexico offers a unique mix that’s hard to beat:

  • Lower cost of living without compromising quality

  • World-class cuisine, rich culture, and diverse landscapes

  • Fast internet and infrastructure to support remote work

  • Favorable visa and residency programs for entrepreneurs and investors

  • Real estate opportunities that combine lifestyle with financial ROI

From colonial cities and beach towns to growing urban hubs, Mexico is attracting everyone from digital nomads and entrepreneurs to families and retirees.


Where to Buy Property in Mexico (Based on Your Lifestyle & Goals)

Different regions offer different benefits depending on your plan:

1. Riviera Maya (Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Bacalar)

Perfect for wellness entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and AirBnB investors. Strong rental income, walkability, and a like-minded international crowd.

2. Merida & Yucatán

Safe, family-friendly, and full of long-term potential. Great for those building a base while running a business or planning for retirement.

3. Guadalajara & Lake Chapala

A thriving startup scene, international airport access, and a growing real estate market. Plus, Lake Chapala is a favorite among older expats.

4. San Miguel de Allende

Art, culture, and colonial charm. Ideal if you’re looking to host retreats, run a boutique business, or invest in long-term rentals.

5. Oaxaca & the Pacific Coast

Affordable land, epic food, and an emerging lifestyle destination. More and more off-the-beaten-path entrepreneurs are landing here.

6. Los Cabos & Baja California Sur

Luxury living and high-end vacation rentals. Ideal for real estate investors looking for premium returns.


Should You Build or Buy Move-In Ready?

Buying Land in Mexico

  • Full customization (think: yoga retreat, co-working house, boutique rentals)

  •  Long-term appreciation

  • May require patience and legal navigation, especially with ejido (communal) land

Buying Turnkey Homes

  •  Immediate move-in or rental income

  • Comes with utilities, paperwork, and potentially furniture

  • Easier for first-time buyers or new expats

If you’re focused on lifestyle + speed to launch, a move-in-ready home is a great choice. If you’re a long-term investor or want to develop your own project, buying land in Mexico can be a smart strategic move.


Can Foreigners Really Buy Property in Mexico?

Yes—but the method depends on location:

  • In cities like Mexico City, Merida, or Guadalajara, you can own directly.

  • In restricted zones (within 50 km of the coast or 100 km from the border), you’ll need a fideicomiso—a renewable 50-year bank trust.

Either way, you can enjoy full ownership rights—use, rent, sell, and pass the property on to heirs.


Investing in Mexico as a Lifestyle Entrepreneur

Mexico is one of the few countries where you can:

  • Own real estate affordably

  • Run an online business legally

  • Qualify for residency through economic solvency or investment

  • Enjoy access to international airports and fiber internet

We’re seeing a wave of entrepreneurs using Mexico as a home base, with side-by-side goals of lifestyle design and financial growth.

Whether you’re launching a coaching brand, setting up a remote agency, or buying land to develop a retreat center—Mexico offers unmatched value.


Smart Investor Tip: Visit First, Buy Second

Mexico’s real estate market is not as centralized or regulated as in the U.S. or Canada. It’s not uncommon to see fake listings or outdated prices online.

Always visit in person. Work with verified local agents, walk the neighborhood, and bring in professionals for due diligence (including a notario público and real estate attorney).


Emerging Markets for Early Movers

Looking for high-upside, low-entry options? These towns are heating up:

  • Progreso: Beach town near Merida with huge growth potential

  • Campeche: Colorful and colonial, with strong appreciation upside

  • Morelia & Terán: Culture and affordability meet opportunity

  • Select areas in Guerrero: Ideal for ecotourism and off-grid projects


Taxes & Legal Essentials

Here’s what you’ll need to know before closing:

  • Closing costs: 5–7% of property price

  • Legal team: Includes a notario público, attorney, and tax advisor

Bonus: Some property purchases may help you qualify for Mexican residency under investment or economic solvency categories.


Final Thoughts: Is Buying Property in Mexico Right for You?

If you’re ready to:

  • Lower your cost of living

  • Build or scale your business abroad

  • Invest in real estate with long-term upside

  • Create a lifestyle of freedom and flexibility

… then buying property in Mexico could be your smartest move yet.


Next Steps: Build Your Life in Mexico

✔️ Start your property search at ExpatPropertySearch.com
✔️ Book a free consultation with our local experts at EntrepreneurExpat.com/consult
✔️ Learn how to earn remotely, get residency, and build a life of freedom at Entrepreneur Expat Programs


Mexico isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to live, grow, and invest.


Let us help you do it the right way.

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