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Your comprehensive guide to buying real estate across Latin America.
Real Estate Market Overview
Avg. Price / Sqm
$1,500 - $4,000 USD
Rental Yield
5% - 8% (High demand in coastal areas)
Foreigners can buy property in Mexico. However, within the 'Restricted Zone' (50km from coast, 100km from borders), purchase must be through a 'Fideicomiso' (Bank Trust) or a Mexican Corporation.
Acquisition Tax (ISAI): 2-5%. VAT: 16% (on construction value only). Notary Fees: 1-3%. Annual Property Tax (Predial): Low (approx 0.1% of assessed value).
Property investment of ~$220,000 USD (amount varies by exchange rate) can qualify you for Temporary Residency.
Available for foreigners from specific Mexican banks and cross-border lenders (up to 60-70% LTV), but interest rates are higher (9-12%).
Make an offer and sign a 'Promesa de Compraventa' (Promissory Agreement).
Pay a deposit (usually 5-10%) into escrow.
Notary Public conducts title search and due diligence.
Apply for Foreign Affairs Ministry permit (if applicable).
Sign the deed (Escritura) before the Notary and pay remaining balance.
Register the deed with the Public Registry.
Boho-chic jungle vibe, high rental demand, eco-luxury developments.
Established expat community, mix of colonial charm and modern condos.
Cosmopolitan capital, historic architecture, vibrant culture (Polanco, Roma, Condesa).
Luxury market, desert-meets-ocean landscapes, high-end golf communities.
Read and share opinions from locals, expats, and recent buyers in Mexico.
Post questions about buying, living, or investing in Mexico and get answers from expats and our team.
Side-by-side market benchmarks across Latin America.
| Country | Avg. Price / Sqm | Rental Yield | Foreign Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|
Mexico | $1,500 - $4,000 USD | 5% - 8% (High demand in coastal areas) | Foreigners can buy property in Mexico. However, within the 'Restricted Zone' (50km from coast, 100km from borders), purchase must be through a 'Fideicomiso' (Bank Trust) or a Mexican Corporation. |
Colombia | $1,200 - $2,500 USD | 6% - 9% (Strong short-term rental market in Medellín) | Foreigners have the same rights as locals to buy property. No special restrictions apply. Investment can qualify you for a Resident Investor Visa. |
Argentina | $1,800 - $3,000 USD | 3% - 5% (Lower due to economic volatility, but improving) | Foreigners can buy property without restrictions, except in border security zones or rural land exceeding certain limits. You need a CDI (Tax ID) number. |
Panama | $2,000 - $3,500 USD | 5% - 7% (Stable dollarized economy) | Foreigners enjoy the same rights as citizens. Property ownership is fee simple. Restrictions apply only to property within 10km of national borders. |
Brazil | $1,500 - $4,000 USD | 4% - 7% (Varies significantly by city) | Foreigners can buy urban property freely. Restrictions apply to rural land and property near borders or coastlines (marine land). You need a CPF (Tax ID). |
Peru | $1,600 - $2,800 USD (Lima) | 4% - 6% | Foreigners have the same rights as Peruvians to buy property, with one exception: foreigners cannot own property within 50km of national borders. |
Uruguay | $2,500 - $4,000 USD (Punta del Este) | 3% - 5% (Stable market) | Foreigners enjoy full ownership rights. No restrictions on buying property, including near borders or coastlines. Very secure legal framework. |
Paraguay | $800 - $1,500 USD (Asunción) | 6% - 9% (Emerging market with high growth) | Foreigners can buy property freely. The only restriction is on owning land within 50km of borders (similar to Peru/Mexico). |