Your real estate advisor
Helps with the search, local context and coordination. This does not replace independent legal or tax advice.
Propertique · The buyer’s journal
Buy with clarity
From the first shortlist to registered ownership, understand the questions, documents and professionals involved in buying a home in Mazatlán.
Can a foreign buyer own a home on the coast?
Yes. For residential property in Mexico’s restricted zone—within 50 km of the coast or 100 km of an international border—foreign buyers generally use a bank trust called a fideicomiso. The bank holds title as trustee; the buyer holds the beneficial rights under the trust. Trusts may run for up to 50 years and can be renewed, subject to the applicable authorization and terms. Mexican buyers generally do not need this foreign-buyer trust structure. Have your notario and independent lawyer confirm the appropriate structure for your nationality, property and intended use.
- 01
Define your ownership plan
Decide whether the home is for full-time living, seasonal visits or rental use. Set a total budget that includes acquisition costs, furnishings and recurring expenses—not just the asking price.
- 02
Compare areas and individual buildings
Tour the unit and its surroundings. Review maintenance, management, accessibility, utilities and condominium rules. Ask for evidence of any claimed rental performance; projections are not guarantees.
- 03
Agree the offer and safeguards
Use a written agreement reviewed by your independent lawyer. Specify price, currency, dates, what is included, due-diligence conditions and what happens to deposits if the purchase cannot proceed. Verify payment instructions independently.
- 04
Complete legal and physical due diligence
Your professionals should verify registered title, seller authority, liens, taxes, boundaries and applicable permits. For a condo, review its legal condominium regime, fees, arrears, reserve position, meeting records and rental restrictions. Commission an appropriate physical inspection.
- 05
Confirm the trust and closing statement
Where required, arrange the fideicomiso with the bank and the relevant authorization. Request an itemized estimate covering acquisition tax, notarial and registration costs, professional fees and trust setup or annual charges. Amounts depend on the transaction.
- 06
Sign, register and take possession
The notario formalizes the transaction and handles the required registration process. Confirm payment and possession arrangements, obtain your documents and follow up on registration. Transfer utilities and confirm insurance, building access and future payment dates.
Know who does what
The notario público
A specially authorized legal professional—not simply a signature witness—who formalizes the transfer and addresses the required legal and tax formalities.
Your independent lawyer & tax advisor
Review your interests, contracts, ownership structure and tax position, including obligations in your home country.
Questions worth asking early
General orientation, not legal, tax or investment advice. Requirements and costs can change; confirm your transaction with independent qualified professionals.