Buying Property in Cozumel as a Foreign Buyer
How the purchase process works in Cozumel for non-Mexican buyers, from first offer through to closing before a notario público.
Foreign buyers can own residential property in Cozumel. The process is well established, but it differs from a purchase in the United States, Canada or Europe in several important ways.
Before you make an offer
Confirm the property's title history, the current predial status and whether any construction on the lot was permitted. On an island with older subdivisions, title history matters more than the finish of the house.
The purchase sequence
1. Offer and deposit
Offers are usually documented in a promissory agreement with a deposit held in escrow, not with the seller directly.
2. Trust permit
Because Cozumel is inside the restricted zone, a foreign buyer of residential property normally applies for a bank trust permit at this stage.
3. Notary due diligence
The notario público verifies title, liens, tax status and identity before drafting the deed.
4. Closing
Funds are released, the deed is signed and the transfer is recorded in the public registry.
Budgeting for costs
- Closing costs, commonly quoted as a percentage of the purchase price
- Trust set-up and annual trust fees
- Notary and registry fees
- Acquisition tax
Exact percentages vary by transaction and should be confirmed with your notary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by
Propertymex Editorial
PropertyMex Research & Editorial Desk
The PropertyMex editorial team covers real estate markets, law and lifestyle across the Riviera Maya.