Greg Thought He Bought His Dream Home in Mexico — Until He Discovered Part of It Wasn’t Legally His

By German Brito | Certified Foreign Legal Consultant in Mexican Law | MexLawClinic

“Everything looked perfect… until we got the survey,” Greg told me during our consultation.

Greg had recently purchased a property in San Antonio Del Mar, just south of Tijuana — a coveted coastal enclave with ocean views and a promising investment upside. He paid $777,000, with $400,000 down and the rest financed directly by the seller. It was supposed to be a seamless transaction. But shortly after closing, a federal zone survey revealed a troubling surprise:

Part of the property wasn’t legally owned by the seller.

Suddenly, what seemed like a secure investment was thrown into question — with potential implications of $150,000 to $200,000 in overpayment and serious uncertainty about the legal status of the land.

The Risks Are Real — Even in High-End Real Estate Deals

Many U.S. buyers assume that purchasing property in Mexico follows a similar structure to what they’re used to in California. But when it comes to Mexican real estate law, especially in coastal areas or federal zones, the process is far more complex — and far less forgiving.

From fideicomisos (bank trusts) to boundary surveys, ownership verifications, and land use restrictions, each step requires specific legal oversight under Mexican law. And when those steps are skipped or handled informally, the consequences can be significant.

Greg, like many others, followed advice he thought was sufficient. He even stopped making monthly payments based on recommendations from his local attorney. But when the seller went silent, the situation became even more uncertain.

That’s When Greg Contacted MexLawClinic

He wasn’t looking for generic answers. He needed legal clarity grounded in Mexican law, delivered by someone authorized to advise him here in California — not across the border, not through third-hand interpretation.

At MexLawClinic, we listened carefully, reviewed the background, and explored potential legal scenarios available to him under Mexican property law. Every option — from possible renegotiation to formal legal actions — required careful navigation of both the facts and the legal documents involved.

But more importantly, Greg took the right first step: he reached out before things got worse.

If You’ve Bought Property in Mexico, Ask Yourself:

• Has the title been verified through a licensed legal professional?

• Do you know whether part of the land is within a federal maritime zone?

• Is your property held through a properly structured fideicomiso?

• Have your purchase and financing terms been reviewed for enforceability under Mexican jurisdiction?

• What happens if the seller stops cooperating?

If you’re unsure about the answer to any of these, now is the time to act — not later.

Why Legal Advice Matters — and Why MexLawClinic Exists

At MexLawClinic, we specialize in helping California residents protect their legal rights in Mexico. I am a Certified Foreign Legal Consultant in Mexican Law, licensed by the State Bar of California, which means I can provide formal, reliable advice on Mexican law without you having to leave the state.

Whether you’re buying, financing, inheriting, or resolving a conflict involving property in Mexico, we are here to guide you through the legal reality — not just the paperwork.

Greg’s story is a reminder that even the best-looking deals can hide problems below the surface.

Don’t wait until silence turns into loss. Reach out to MexLawClinic and schedule your consultation today.

Let us help you understand your rights — and your options — before the next step becomes a legal setback.