Blog  |  Thursday, June 20, 2024

Home Buying Etiquette You Should Know Before Buying in Los Cabos

Looking for luxury homes in Los Cabos? Buying a home, especially internationally, is about more than just changing your address. There’s a lot to consider, and you’ll want to go about making a move abroad in the right way.

Home buying etiquette is important, whether you’re purchasing a vacation property or moving permanently to the exclusive East Cape. Consider these tips on how to properly navigate the home buying process from start to finish.

• Use a reputable realtor

  Finding the right real estate agent to assist with your search for luxury homes in Los Cabos is key to smooth sailing.

  Look for an experienced, professional real estate agen who really knows the area. AND has a proven track record of success in delivering results for their clients.

  • Reap the benefits

    A skilled professional will also be able to help you exercise the proper etiquette throughout the proceedings. Particularly when any language or cultural barriers are involved.

    They should be able to advise you as to which neighborhoods, school districts, and properties will be best suited to your needs.

    A realtor should also have their finger on the pulse of an area you’re interested. They are more likely to have the scoop on hot up-and-coming properties, some of which may have not yet hit the market. This gives you the advantage of being ready to make an offer as soon as a listing is active.

    Another bonus is letting them be your “boots on the ground” when you’re not physically present. Someone who’s able to provide additional photos, videos, and extra insight into a particular property at any point during your home search.

    Viewing a property online can only shed so much light on the vibe of a home and neighborhood. So letting a knowledgeable real estate agent assist in finding your perfect match is a must.

  • Do your research

    What’s the best way to go about finding the right person for your team?

    Conduct research online, but also give serious consideration to those recommendations you obtain through word of mouth.

    If someone you know has used a realtor with great results and a positive experience, that speaks volumes about their ability to successfully conduct international home buying business.

    You can also have an initial consultation conversation with a potential realtor to get an idea of their communication style and whether or not you feel you would work well together.

    Get your search off on the right foot with a seasoned realtor on your side.

• Brush up on local real estate regulations

  Although American citizens can legally buy and own property in Mexico, the process is not entirely the same.

  Show your respect for local real estate laws by learning about and adhering to international home purchasing policies in Mexico.

  With the guidance of a reputable realtor, you can expect a smooth process.

  The main thing to know about buying land or property in Mexico as an American is the importance of having a fideicomiso. A fideicomiso is a long-term bank trust that is put in place to allow foreigners to indirectly own property in Mexico.

  Essentially, fideicomiso is an intermediary between the home-buyer and the Mexican government. A fideicomiso holds the ownership of the property under the name of a Mexican trustee, which is usually the trust department of a Mexican bank.

  By the bank owning the title to the property, the foreign home-buyer is then granted rights to own/occupy, lease or sell the property, in addition to remodeling, gifting, or leaving the home or land to their heirs in the event of their death.

• Get to know the local culture

  A new lifestyle and culture awaits in your new surroundings. In order to make the transition as seamless and rewarding as possible, put down roots in your newfound community in a variety of ways.

  Stretch your social skills

  Get to know your neighbors and build relationships with the community by attending events or volunteering with local organizations or clubs.

  Once you’ve settled in, consider hosting a get-together, formal or informal, at your new home to welcome your neighbors and make new friends.

  Learn the local lifestyle

  Don’t speak Spanish? Take lessons to learn the language so you can better communicate with others and feel more included in social situations.

  Another good idea is to familiarize yourself with cultural holidays, traditions, and other customs. Not only does this demonstrate a concerted effort to get to know more about the community, but it will also help you to feel a greater sense of belonging.

• Be courteous to your new neighbors

  Once you’ve officially purchased your new Los Cabos home, be mindful of your move-in process–and the potential disruption it could create.

  If you’re planning to have any remodeling, construction, or landscaping done on the property, make sure you’re up to speed on any rules or regulations that need to be followed.

  This also applies to the moving company you employ. If you’ll be using local movers, they should be well versed on what to do.

  Think local policies like noise ordinances, construction or zoning permits, and homeowners association guidelines, that you may need to adhere to in your neighborhood.

  If your house manager or other staff will be coordinating the move ahead of your arrival, ensure that they proceed appropriately.

  Show your goodwill with a small gift for your neighbors, no matter how big or small. Even a thoughtful note can go a long way towards establishing a positive rapport and getting things off on the right foot.

  Not only will following the proper procedures help you avoid any unnecessary fines or problems, it will ease your transition into the community–and your neighbors will appreciate your consideration.

Searching for your own personal piece of paradise? Look no further than Casa Blake’s luxury homes in Los Cabos. Do playful sophistication, inspired design, and unassuming luxury suit your style? This iconic neighborhood, ideally located in the heart of Marina Village at Costa Palmas, is just what the doctor ordered. Unlock privileges like access to the Costa Palmas Beach & Yacht Club, Aventura, and world-class shopping and dining. Decadent living is at its finest when you call Casa Blake home.