Safety guide

How to avoid real estate fraud

Protect your real estate transactions by following these safety tips

4areas to check
8warning signs

See warning signs

Checklist

Before you buy or rent

Go over every point before handing over money or signing any document.

Document Checks

Ask for original documents, not copies
Check the property deed (escritura pública)
Confirm the seller is the legal owner
Make sure there are no liens or outstanding debts
Check the Public Property Registry (Registro Público de la Propiedad)

Payment Precautions

Never pay a deposit without a signed contract
Avoid transfers to personal accounts
Use an escrow account whenever possible
Keep every proof of payment
Be wary of prices far below market value

Property Inspection

Always visit the property in person
Check that the address matches the documents
Confirm the seller has the keys
Check the actual condition of the building
Ask the neighbors about the property

Legal Advice

Hire a specialized real estate lawyer
Use a certified notario público (the state-appointed lawyer who certifies the deed)
Review every contract before signing
Make sure you fully understand the terms and conditions
Never sign blank documents

Warning signs

If you notice any of these, stop and verify before going any further.

Pressure to decide quickly
The seller avoids meeting in person
Documents with inconsistencies
Prices well below the market
Requests for cash-only payments
No verifiable contact information
Urgent "exclusive" properties
Promises of guaranteed returns

Report it

Suspect fraud?

If you spot suspicious activity, report it right away to the relevant Mexican authorities.

PROFECO
Consumer protection agency
01 800 468 8722
Fiscalía General
Attorney General, fraud reports
01 800 008 8400
Condusef
Financial services ombudsman
01 800 999 8080