Why do so many buyers from the United States and Canada choose Mexico’s Caribbean coast? This short video from Playa Realtors sums it up in five reasons. Below you will find each one explained, plus the first steps we recommend before you start looking at properties in Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cancún or anywhere else in Quintana Roo.
The five reasons, explained
1. Location
The Riviera Maya is easy to reach. Cancún International Airport has direct flights from many cities in the United States and Canada, and Tulum has its own international airport. For many buyers, a home here is closer to family and work than a second home in another part of their own country.
2. Lifestyle
Turquoise water, a warm climate all year and a relaxed pace of life are what bring most people here the first time. What makes them stay is the variety: the walkable center of Playa del Carmen, the jungle and beaches of Tulum, the marinas and city services of Cancún, island life in Cozumel and the quiet lagoon of Bacalar.
3. Value compared to the US and Canada
Buyers often find that the same budget gets them more here than in comparable coastal markets at home: more space, ocean or jungle views, or a location closer to the beach. Value depends on the specific property, which is why we compare every option against real market data before you make an offer.
4. Strong tourism
The Mexican Caribbean is one of the most visited regions in the Americas. Tourism keeps restaurants, services, health care and transportation growing, which makes daily life easier for residents.
5. A growing local economy
New infrastructure, new neighborhoods and a growing full time population have changed the region in recent years. Growth also brings risk, so it matters who helps you separate the good opportunities from the rest.
Before you start looking
- Verify that your real estate agent is licensed in Quintana Roo. It is the single most important step to protect your purchase.
- Read our closing guide so you know every step from offer to keys.
- Budget for closing costs of 7 to 10% of the purchase price.
- If you are buying from abroad, see how Americans buy and how Canadians buy in the Riviera Maya.
Frequently asked questions
How much are closing costs when buying in the Riviera Maya?
Plan for closing costs of 7 to 10% of the purchase price. The exact amount depends on the property and the type of purchase.
Do I need a local real estate agent to buy in Mexico?
You are not required to use one, but working with a licensed local agent who represents you, not the developer, protects your interests in pricing, negotiation and due diligence. Contracts and the closing are done in Spanish, so local experience matters.
Which areas does Playa Realtors cover?
We cover all of Quintana Roo, from Holbox and Cancún to Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, Bacalar and Mahahual, with offices in Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
Playa Realtors is a licensed real estate brokerage in the Riviera Maya, founded in 2008. We represent buyers, never developers. Tell us what you are looking for and we will start with a conversation, not a showing.
More videos: all Playa Realtors videos.
