Quick Answer
The process follows 7 steps: (1) Find a property and make an offer with a good-faith deposit, (2) Sign a purchase agreement (contrato de promesa), (3) Apply for SRE permit from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, (4) Conduct due diligence — title search, lien check, survey, (5) Complete a mandatory property appraisal (avaluo), (6) Set up the fideicomiso bank trust, (7) Close before the notario publico — sign deed, transfer funds, receive keys.
Detailed Answer
The buying process follows seven clear steps: (1) Find a property with your agent and submit an offer with a good-faith deposit of 1-3%, (2) Sign a contrato de promesa (purchase agreement) outlining price, terms, and contingencies, (3) Apply for the SRE permit from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, (4) Conduct full due diligence including title search, lien check, ejido verification, and physical inspection, (5) Complete the mandatory property appraisal (avaluo), (6) Set up the fideicomiso bank trust, (7) Close before the notario publico — sign the escritura (deed), transfer funds, and receive keys.
The entire process takes 40-45 days from accepted offer to closing. Steps 3 through 6 run concurrently, managed by your agent, attorney, and notario. A good-faith deposit secures the property and is held in escrow until closing. The final closing meeting at the notario's office takes 1-2 hours and requires the buyer (or their power of attorney), seller, and a representative from the trustee bank.
Our team has guided hundreds of buyers through this exact process across every Los Cabos community. We provide a detailed timeline and checklist at the start so you know exactly what to expect. Read our complete buying guide or contact us to begin your search today.