Foreigners who are interested in purchasing Mexican real estate should continue to read below as the top questions and answers are provided about Mexican real estate and fideicomiso trusts.

What is a Fideicomiso?

A fideicomiso is a real estate trust that you can apply for at a Mexican bank of your choice when you purchase real estate in Mexico. The bank is the trustee to the fideicomiso, and you (or anyone you designate) are the beneficiaries of the trust. The beneficiaries have control over the real estate. The trust is not a lease, but it is equal to a Living Trust in the United States. You can sell it, mortgage it, use it, enjoy it, will it, and inherit it. The Mexican bank will represent you on your behalf, and be the administer

Do you need a Fideicomiso?

If you are a non-Mexican, you will need to use a fideicomiso to legally purchase any real estate in Mexico that lies in the ‘restricted zone’, which refers to any real estate that is within 31 miles (50 km) of all coastlines and 62 miles (100 km) from the borders of Mexico. Foreigners will not need a fideicomiso if they are purchasing real estate that is not located in the restricted zone, although many foreigners still choose to use the trust.

Does my property become an asset of the bank?

The bank has no rights to your property, the bank is merely a steward to your trust. Your property does not become an asset of the bank. No legal action against the bank or bankruptcy will affect your trust.

What is the Fideicomiso trust time period?

The fideicomiso trust time period is 50 years and at any time the trust can be renewed for a fee. The fideicomiso trust is always set for 50 year increments, which is also guaranteed for renewal.

What are the costs involved in getting a fideicomiso?

The current fideicomiso cost is $500.00 (USD).

Does the Mexican Government have the right to take my Property?

At no time can the Mexican Government take your property. Under the NAFTA – North American Free Trade Agreement states that Mexico cannot directly retrieve your property unless it was for a public purpose, such as building roads or highways, and then this can only be done through the correct legal action. The government will give you the fair market price for the trust along with any interest that may accrue.

Can I have a fideicomiso trust for any ejido land?

You cannot get a fideicomiso trust for any ‘ejido’ land as only Mexican nationals can own the ejido land legally. This type of land in Mexico is not considered real estate as it does not come without a title or deed.