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Buying Luxury Real Estate in Baja California Sur — A Guide for North American Buyers

Buying property in Mexico is one of the best decisions many of my clients have ever made. It is also one of the most misunderstood processes for North Americans approaching it for the first time. My job is to make sure you understand exactly what you're getting into — before you make any decisions.

Here is what you need to know.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Mexico?

Yes — completely legally, and with strong title protection available. Foreigners can own property in Mexico through a Fideicomiso (bank trust) in the restricted zone, which covers all coastal and border areas including La Paz, La Ventana, Todos Santos, and Los Cabos. Outside the restricted zone, foreigners can own property directly in their name.

The Fideicomiso is a 50-year renewable trust held by a Mexican bank, with you as the beneficiary. You have full rights to use, rent, sell, and pass on the property. It is not a lease. It is not temporary. It is full ownership through a legal trust structure that has been used successfully by foreign buyers in Mexico for decades.

Why Baja California Sur — And Why Now

Baja California Sur is one of the last coastal markets in North America where waterfront property at $500,000 to $2,000,000 still represents genuine value. La Paz, La Ventana, Todos Santos, and the East Cape offer lifestyle and natural beauty that rival anything in the Caribbean or Pacific — at a fraction of the cost.

The buyers moving here now are not speculators. They are people in their 40s, 50s, and 60s who have spent their careers building something and are now making a deliberate choice about how they want to live the next chapter. Many of them are Canadian or American. Many of them are active — wing foiling, paddleboarding, diving, hiking. All of them want something real.

The Buying Process — Step by Step

Step 1: Define your goals. Primary residence, vacation home, or investment property? Each has different implications for the property type, location, and legal structure that makes the most sense.

Step 2: Search the market. Through SearchBajaHomes.com you have access to every MLS-listed property across Baja California Sur, updated in real time. No registration required to browse.

Step 3: Visit and shortlist. I organize in-person showings across all markets I cover — La Paz, La Ventana, Todos Santos, East Cape, Cabo San Lucas, and San José del Cabo. I do not show you properties that do not match your criteria.

Step 4: Make an offer. I prepare the purchase contract, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure all modifications protect your interests. This is where having a dual-licensed realtor matters — I understand both Mexican real estate law and the standards North American buyers expect.

Step 5: Due diligence. Title search, property survey, legal review. I work with trusted local notarios and lawyers. You should never buy property in Mexico without a proper title search.

Step 6: Close. Closing in Mexico takes place before a Notario Público — not the same as a Canadian or American notary. The Notario is a government-appointed legal officer who handles the official transfer. Closing typically takes 30 to 60 days from accepted offer.

What Does It Cost to Close?

Closing costs in Mexico for buyers typically run 3% to 5% of the purchase price and include acquisition tax, notary fees, trust establishment fees (Fideicomiso), and registration costs. I provide a detailed closing cost estimate before you make any offer so there are no surprises.

Why Work With a Dual-Licensed Realtor

Many real estate agents operating in Mexico hold no formal license. In Baja California Sur, the Licencia Inmobiliaria is issued by the state and requires ongoing renewal — very few foreign agents hold one. I am fully licensed in both Canada and Mexico, which means I operate to the professional and ethical standards of both systems.

I also live here. I have been a full-time La Paz resident for four years. I am not flying in for showings and flying home. When you have a question at 7pm on a Wednesday, I am 15 minutes from the property.

Ready to Start?

 

[Contact Richard] to discuss what you are looking for. Whether you are six months away from a decision or ready to visit next week, I am happy to answer questions, share current listings, and help you understand this market from the inside.

$659,000
3 Beds 3 Baths 26-3409 MLS
Casa Mogote located on Lot 7009, one of the best lots in Villas del Centenario, positioned at the top of the community with incredible panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez. This 3BR/2.5BA home offers 209.60 m² (2,256.60 sq ft) of interior living space and a total covered area of 253 m² (2,723.27 sq ft). The home also includes 39.85 m² (429.02 sq ft) of pergolas and 71.90 m² (773.96 sq ft) of uncovered exterior areas including terraces and planters. Features include 10' ceilings, open living/kitchen/dining area, custom hardwood cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, spacious pantry, laundry room, mini-split A/C units, and ceiling fans throughout. The primary bedroom includes dual vanities, a marble-tiled shower, and walk-in closets. A rooftop terrace is complemented by a steel-beam pergola designed for outdoor enjoyment.Quality finishes include ceramic tile flooring throughout, smooth gypsum-finished walls and ceilings and natural stone exterior accents.The listed price includes the lot and base home only. Optional upgrades are available at an additional cost, including a 10 ft x 15 ft pool, 10 ft x 20 ft pool, pool and spa package, 1-car or 2-car garages, and a garage with casita option. Estimated construction time is approximately 9-12 months. Photos may include upgrades or previously completed homes.Villas del Centenario is a private master-planned community with gated access, paved roads, underground utilities (CFE electricity, municipal water and Telmex fiber optic internet) and shared amenities including a clubhouse/gym, BBQ area and pickleball courts. Neighborhood fees are currently MXN $30,961 annuallyPrice: $659,000 USD. The price in Mexican Pesos will be calculated at closing based on the official exchange rate published by the Diario Oficial de la Federación.

Casa Mogote 7009, La Paz

$559,000
3 Beds 2 Baths 26-3408 MLS
Casa Tecolote located on Lot 7019, one of the premier homesites in Villas del Centenario, positioned at the top of the community with breathtaking panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez. This thoughtfully designed 3BR/2BA residence offers 187.71 m² (2,020.49 sq ft) of interior living space, plus a 35.33 m² (380.29 sq ft) covered terrace, 33.54 m² (361.02 sq ft) of pergolas and 59.71 m² (642.72 sq ft) of uncovered outdoor living areas including terraces and planters. The open-concept design features 10-foot ceilings, abundant natural light and seamless flow between the living, dining and kitchen areas. The kitchen includes stained alder wood cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious pantry. Additional features include a laundry room, mini-split A/C units and ceiling fans throughout.The primary suite offers walk-in closets, dual vanities and a marble-tiled shower in the bathroom. Quality finishes include ceramic tile flooring throughout, smooth gypsum-finished walls and ceilings, natural stone exterior accents and a steel-beam pergola designed for outdoor enjoyment.The listed price includes the lot and base home only. Optional upgrades are available at an additional cost, including a 10 ft x 15 ft pool, 10 ft x 20 ft pool, 10 ft x 21 ft pool and spa package, 1-car or 2-car garages, and a garage with casita option. Estimated construction time is approximately 9-12 months.Villas del Centenario is a private master-planned community with gated access, paved roads, underground utilities (CFE electricity, municipal water and Telmex fiber optic internet), and shared amenities including a clubhouse/gym, BBQ area, and pickleball courts. Neighborhood fees are currently MXN $30,961 annually.Price: $559,000 USD. The price in Mexican Pesos will be calculated at closing based on the official exchange rate published by the Diario Oficial de la Federación.

Casa Tecolote 7019, La Paz

$829,000
3 Beds 4 Baths 26-3389 MLS
House for Sale Just 3 Blocks from the Beach in La Paz, B.C.S.Spacious two-story home located in the La Posada neighborhood on Nueva Reforma Street. The property offers a functional layout and versatile spaces designed for comfortable family living.Built on a 337.50 m² lot (approximately 3,633 sq. ft.), the home features 300 m² of construction (approximately 3,229 sq. ft.), with:3 bedrooms, 2 with closets3 full bathrooms1 half bathroom2 studies, ideal for use as home offices, TV rooms, game rooms, or additional bedroomsThe property also includes a living room, dining area, fully equipped kitchen, laundry room, and storage room. Outside, a pleasant garden with fruit trees provides privacy, shade, and a refreshing atmosphere. The home is being sold partially furnished, including:5,000-liter water tank (approximately 1,321 US gallons)1,100-liter water tank (approximately 291 US gallons)180-liter stationary propane tank (approximately 48 US gallons)Water pump and hydropneumatic pressure systemFrigidaire refrigeratorFrigidaire electric ovenMabe microwave ovenViking six-burner commercial-style cooktopMaytag dishwasherTwo large sofas with feather-filled cushions, seating up to 8 peopleCoffee tableDining table with 8 chairs6 ceiling fans3 pendant lights above the kitchen barStorage cabinets in 3 bathrooms5 dining-bar stoolsWindow blinds7 mini-split air-conditioning unitsGarage storage shelvingGarden AreaOutdoor lounge furniture with cushions, seating up to 6 peopleGranite bar with 8 wooden stoolsThe exterior includes a covered garage for 2 vehicles, an electric gate, and a 5,000-liter cistern (approximately 1,321 US gallons). There is also a designated area for the future construction of a swimming pool, allowing the outdoor space to be customized according to the buyer's preferences.Located in La Posada, just three blocks from the beach, this property is an attractive option for full-time living, a vacation home, or an investment in La Paz, Baja California Sur.

Casa Nueva Reforma, La Paz

$749,900
3 Beds 4 Baths 26-3320 MLS
This spacious 2-bedroom luxury home with casita is located in a quiet gated community with bay and desert views, offering the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and Baja lifestyle. Situated in the sought-after Haciendas Palo Verde community just 12 minutes north of La Paz, this exceptional property enjoys breathtaking sunrises over the mountains, spectacular desert sunsets, and the peace of mind that comes with 24-hour gated security.Designed for both everyday living and entertaining, the spacious main floor features an open-concept living and kitchen area where a beautiful brick-domed ceiling creates an authentic Mexican ambiance. Thoughtfully placed accent lighting highlights the craftsmanship of the brickwork, adding warmth and character to the living space. The custom kitchen is both elegant and functional, showcasing maple cabinetry with parota wood trim, striking black-streaked granite countertops, abundant storage, a pantry, and an adjoining laundry area that adds convenience and even more storage space.The primary suite is a private retreat, complete with a large walk-in closet, a luxurious 4-piece ensuite bath, and its own brick-domed ceiling enhanced by accent lighting. A generous second bedroom also features its own ensuite, while a separate office provides an ideal space for working from home, pursuing hobbies, or accommodating additional guests. Large windows throughout the home capture beautiful views from virtually every room, creating a constant connection to the surrounding desert, mountains, and bay.Outdoor living is an essential part of life in Baja, and this property delivers with a large covered patio perfect for relaxing, entertaining, or enjoying the year-round warm climate. The spacious lot offers ample room to add a substantial swimming pool, creating the ultimate outdoor oasis. Marble flooring extends throughout the home, enhancing the sense of luxury and continuity. The extra-large two-car garage provides space not only for vehicles but also for an ATV, recreational equipment, or a workshop and hobby area, and even includes air conditioning for added comfort.Adding tremendous flexibility and value is the self-contained one-bedroom casita. With its own private entrance and terrace, the casita includes a kitchenette, full bathroom, living area, and dining space, making it ideal for guests, extended family, or potential rental income.Additional Features:" Low-maintenance desert landscaping" Tinted windows to reduce glare and heat gain" Real wood blinds throughout the home" Central vacuum system" Seven mini-split air conditioning units serving the home and garage" 10-foot ceilings throughout" Elegant stone sinks in all bathrooms" Convenient powder room" Cantera stone flooring at the main entrance" Haciendas Palo Verde community clubhouse with swimming pool and meeting roomThis beautifully designed home combines luxury finishes, generous living spaces, exceptional views, and a versatile casita in one of the area's most desirable gated communities, making it an outstanding opportunity to enjoy the very best of Baja living.

Casa Rosa, La Paz

$2,295,000
4 Beds 4 Baths 26-3173 MLS
Casa Suspiro | Bahia, Baja California Sur.Perched above the tranquil waters of the Sea of Cortez within the exclusive Spanish Hill enclave, Casa Suspiro is a rare offering that captures the essence of luxury living in Baja California Sur.Occupying a premier cul-de-sac homesite of nearly one acre, the residence enjoys an extraordinary west-northwest orientation with sweeping 180-degree views across Bahia to Isla Cerralvo. Among the few properties in the region to offer unobstructed sunset vistas, Casa Suspiro overlooks a Sea of Cortez protected anchorage, pristine sandy beaches, and the rugged beauty of the surrounding coastal mountains--an ever-changing landscape that defines this remarkable setting.Encompassing more than 1,800 square feet of A/C space, the home offers four Bedrooms, three and-a-half bathrooms, thoughtfully designed to blend timeless architecture with effortless indoor-outdoor living. Expansive gathering spaces flow seamlessly onto covered terraces, where a resort-style pool and spa invite long afternoons beneath the Baja sun and evenings framed by unforgettable sunsets.Every element of the property has been curated to celebrate its extraordinary surroundings, creating an atmosphere that is both refined and relaxed--a place equally suited for intimate family retreats or gracious entertaining.Beyond the home, a lifestyle of unparalleled adventure awaits. From world-class fishing, diving, foiling, and boating to horseback riding, scenic hiking trails, and the renowned mountain biking at Rancho Cacachiles, Bahía offers an exceptional balance of recreation, natural beauty, and tranquility.Whether envisioned as a private coastal sanctuary, an elegant vacation residence, or a legacy estate to be enjoyed for generations, Casa Suspiro represents a rare opportunity to own one of Baja California Sur's most captivating oceanview properties.

Casa Suspiro, La Paz

$999,000
4 Beds 3 Baths 26-2917 MLS
Colinas Puerta Cortés | La Paz, Baja California Sur$999,000 USD Reduced!Discover an extraordinary single-level residence in Colinas Puerta Cortés, one of the most exclusive communities in La Paz, Baja California Sur. This property combines comfort, privacy, and a resort-style lifestyle in a privileged setting with sea views and golf course views.The main home features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, plus an independent casita, ideal for guests, extended family, a home office, or staff quarters. Its single-level layout offers a practical, functional, and elegant living experience, perfect for those who value spaciousness and comfort without stairs.One of its greatest highlights is its location within Puerta Cortés, a master-planned community along the Sea of Cortez that brings tog marina access, golf, beach clubs, and premium services in one destination. The property includes golf and beach club membership, adding exceptional value and allowing you to fully enjoy the community's lifestyle.The community's golf course is El Cortés Golf Club, officially recognized as an 18-hole Gary Player Signature Course, featuring panoramic ocean views, a driving range, practice green, and short course. For buyers who understand lifestyle and long-term value, that detail speaks for itself.In addition, Puerta Cortés offers a high-end residential experience with access to Marina Costa Baja, tennis courts, a panoramic gym, beach clubs, recreational areas, and on-site dining options. All of this makes the property an excellent opportunity as a full-time residence, vacation home, or long-term investment in one of La Paz's most desirable communities.Property Highlights:" Single-level home" 3 bedrooms" 2 bathrooms" Independent casita" Sea and golf course views" Golf and beach club membership included" Access to Marina Costa Baja" Community amenities include tennis courts, gym, and swimming pools" Located within one of the most exclusive developments in La Paz

Casa Puerta Cortes #1, La Paz

$850,000
3 Beds 5 Baths 26-2889 MLS
Perched above the bay in the prestigious gated community of Haciendas Palo Verde in El Centenario, this exceptional residence offers the perfect blend of luxury, privacy, and breathtaking views. Situated on a generous lot measuring 28.96 meters of frontage by 67.09 meters deep, this beautifully appointed home is designed for those who appreciate quality, comfort, and effortless Baja living.Featuring three spacious bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bath, plus a fully equipped office, the home offers a total of 4.5 bathrooms and thoughtfully designed living spaces throughout. The open-concept living area is ideal for entertaining and the chef's kitchen comes fully equipped with a stove, oven, range hood, refrigerator, dishwasher, as well as a pantry/laundry room area Outdoor living is where this home truly shines. Enjoy spectacular bay views from your private pool and jacuzzi, gather around the gas fire place or entertain family and friends in the barbecue area complete with both gas and wood-fired cooking options. The rooftop terrace provides the perfect place to relax and take in some of the finest views in the area.Residents of Haciendas Palo Verde enjoy controlled access and outstanding community amenities including a clubhouse, swimming pool, gym, barbecue area, and beautifully maintained green spaces.Combining security, sophistication, and incredible views, this remarkable property offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the very best of Baja living.

Casa Sol y Mar, La Paz

$795,000
4 Beds 3 Baths 26-2784 MLS
Renovated 2024 Contemporary Beach House with Private Guest Casita | Paraíso del MarSteps from the sea, this turn-key Model Estrella home offers a completely modernized coastal design reimagined in 2024. Move straight into luxury without the hassle of remodeling.The main home features 2 pristine en-suite bedrooms plus a versatile studio/3rd bedroom. For ultimate privacy, a detached independent Guest Casita sits by the front courtyard. Outdoors, enjoy an added pergola for a vehicle/golf cart and an expansive backyard resort with a custom firepit and a premium outdoor kitchen.Experience premier island living within a championship 18-hole golf course, accessible by both land and water. HOA amenities include 2 pools, jacuzzis, tennis, pickleball, restaurants, and much more. Impeccably maintained and truly turnkey, this exceptional casa stands out as one of the most thoughtfully cared-for and beautifully upgraded homes in the entire Paraiso del Mar community.Cherished by its original owners, every space reflects pride in ownership, meticulous maintenance, and a commitment to quality that is immediately evident from the moment you arrive.Set on nearly a quarter-acre lot, the home offers peaceful backyard privacy and effortless access to the pool, bicycle station, and the community's extraordinary swimmable beach--miles ofuntouched shoreline along the calm, glassy waters of La Paz Bay. Whether you enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, long beach walks on an unincorporated coastline, or simply relaxing in the serenity that defines Paraiso del Mar, this location delivers the best of coastal living.Flexible Interior SpacesInside the main home, you will find 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and an office with doors that easily convert to a third bedroom, providing flexible space for guests or remote work. The detachedcasita adds a private retreat with its own bedroom, full bath, and custom built-ins--ideal for visitors or rental potential. Furnishings are negotiable, with artwork and accessories excluded.A recent professional remodel transformed the kitchen and living area into a bright, modern, highly functional showpiece. The space features custom Rosa Morada soft-close cabinetry, extended counters with a built-in wine refrigerator, elegant and durable Lapitec cleanline countertops, new appliances, and designer finishes. Additional upgrades include new A/C units, all new high-end windows and sliding doors with inside screens, fresh interior and exterior paint, a new insulated garage door, new toilets, and more.Exceptional Outdoor LivingOutdoors, the home truly shines. Extended pergolas with concrete pillars enhance the backyard and courtyard, while the property also boasts one of the community's rare driveways pergolas--also built with matching concrete pillars--creating a cohesive architectural aesthetic and valuable shaded parking. The outdoor kitchen with built-in BBQ and stainless cabinets, outdoor shower, palapa bar, low-voltage LED lighting, built-in seating with propane firepit, and Mature, low-maintenance landscaping creates a private resort atmosphere.Premium features include hurricane screens, whole-house water filtration, whole-house surge protection, tiled garage floor, thermostatic garage fan, recessed lighting, 10' ceilings, andtravertine flooring throughout.Paraiso del Mar residents enjoy resort living with two pools, tennis and pickleball courts, complimentary bicycles, and two on-site restaurants. The community offers 24/7 security, first responder medical services, and an 18-hole golf course.HOA fees cover water from its own 24/7 private water desalination plant, Wi-Fi, trash collection, landscaping, security, and medical services. Residents also benefit from the boat and van transportation within the community and to nearby attractions, ensuring convenient and stress-free living.This is a rare opportunity to own a meticulously cared-for, fully upgraded, turnkey home in one of La Paz's most unique beachfront communities.

Casa 77, La Paz

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*All MXN prices are approximate based on daily exchange published by BANXICO. / Todos los precios en MXN son aproximados en base al tipo de cambio diario publicado por BANXICO.

NOM 247: The prices contained in this website are in DOLLARS (US Currency) and in accordance with article 8 of the monetary law, the final price for recordation purposes will be converted into PESOS resulting from the official exchange rate on the date payment is due. In accordance with NOM 247, prices shown in DOLLARS can be converted into PESOS by accessing the following link and performing the corresponding arithmetic multiplication per the current exchange rate.

https://www.banxico.org.mx/tipcamb/main.do?page=tip&idioma=en

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NOM 247: Los precios contenidos en este sitio web están en DÓLARES (moneda de los EUA) y de conformidad con el artículo 8 de la ley monetaria en vigor, el precio oficial a registrar en la escritura será el de PESOS que resulte del tipo de cambio oficial en la fecha que el pago sea obligatorio. De conformidad con la NOM 247, los precios en DÓLARES se pueden consultar en PESOS mediante la multiplicación aritmética del precio mostrado en DÓLARES por el tipo de cambio en vigor para solventar operaciones en dólares moneda de Los EUA.

https://www.banxico.org.mx/tipcamb/main.do?page=tip&idioma=sp