Los Cabos Real Estate Buyer’s Guide: 2026 Edition
Buying property in Mexico is a dream for many — but navigating the legal and financial landscape requires expert guidance. This guide gives you a clear, step-by-step roadmap to owning your piece of paradise in Baja Sur, from San José del Cabo to the East Cape.
Key Essentials of the Buying Process
As a foreigner, you hold title through a fideicomiso — a 50-year renewable trust held by a Mexican bank. It gives you all the rights of ownership: sell, rent, renovate, or pass the property to your heirs. The bank holds title in name only and cannot act without your instruction.
Unlike in the U.S., the Notario is a government-appointed attorney who oversees the entire transaction — ensures the title is clean, verifies all documentation, and officially records the deed. The choice of notary is legally the buyer's right.
Budget between 5% to 9% of the purchase price in closing costs. This covers the ISABI acquisition tax (3%), notary fees (1%–1.5%), fideicomiso setup, technical documentation, and escrow fees.
Step-by-Step Roadmap to Buying in Los Cabos
- Define Your Goals Are you looking for a rental investment, a vacation home, or a permanent residence? Your goal determines the right location, property type, and price range — and shapes every decision that follows.
- Offer & Deposit Once we find the right property, we make a formal offer. A 10% deposit is typically held in a secure escrow account while the due diligence period proceeds.
- Due Diligence We verify the property has no liens, all taxes are paid, the title is clean, and the seller has the legal right to sell. This is where problems surface — and where the transaction can be renegotiated or exited cleanly if needed.
- Closing You sign the final deed before the Notario, the remaining funds are wired, and you receive your keys. The entire process typically takes 45 to 90 days from accepted offer to recorded deed.
Have Questions About Buying in Mexico?
Our team is here to walk you through every step — from your first property search to the closing table.
Contact Us: info@bajasmart.comThis content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. We recommend working with a qualified Mexican attorney and notary for your specific transaction.
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