Cabo Realty Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need Before Purchasing

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Karla and Erick Cabo Realty

Last update:  2026-01-16

Cabo Realty Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need Before Purchasing

📘 Cabo Realty Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need Before Purchasing

 

Buying in Cabo? Start Here

Purchasing a property in Mexico is exciting—but it comes with unique legal and financial considerations that most foreign buyers aren’t familiar with.

At Karla & Erick | Cabo Realty, powered by Century 21 Paradise Properties, we’ve guided hundreds of U.S. and Canadian clients through the buying process safely and with full confidence. This guide summarizes what you need to know before making any offer.

 

Key Legal Concepts for Foreigners

Before anything else, you’ll need to understand:

  • ✅ Fideicomiso – This is the bank trust that allows foreigners to legally own property near the coastline.
  • ✅ Escritura (Title Deed) – The legal document confirming ownership. Always make sure this is clear and updated.
  • ✅ Notario Público – A certified government official (not a regular notary) who oversees the transaction.

 

Estimated Costs to Expect

These are common one-time and recurring expenses you should plan for:

  • Closing costs: 4% to 7% of the purchase price
  • Fideicomiso setup: Approx. $2,000 USD
  • Annual fideicomiso fee: $500–$1,000 USD
  • Property taxes: Usually under 0.1% of value (very low vs. U.S.)

We always provide you with a breakdown before signing anything.

Step-by-Step Buying Process

  1. Find the property (we help you shortlist based on needs)
  2. Submit an offer (we structure it and negotiate)
  3. Open escrow and legal review
  4. Notary processes title & taxes
  5. Sign escritura and register property

Whether you’re here or abroad, we manage every step, including remote closings.

 

Expert Tips from Cabo Realty

  • Only work with agents who understand U.S. expectations
  • Avoid cash-only or off-the-record deals
  • Don’t skip title review or tax estimation
  • Consider pre-sales only with developer vetting
  • Choose a property that fits both lifestyle and resale goals

Final Thoughts

Buying in Cabo can be safe, exciting, and profitable—if you do it right. Let our team walk you through it from start to finish with zero surprises and total clarity.

Karla and Erick Cabo Realty

Karla and Erick Cabo Realty

Thinking of moving to Baja California Sur, México?

Karla Andreu and Erick Flores (Century 21) guide U.S. & Canadian buyers, expats, retirees, and families through every step.

We specialize in beach & golf communities across Los Cabos and Baja California Sur—offering expert advice, relocation support, and clear guidance to help you invest with confidence.

Advice available, contact us.