Thinking of buying or selling a property in Los Cabos? Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, navigating the closing process in Mexico can seem daunting. To help clarify what to expect, we spoke with Edgar Oriel, Managing Partner of Cabo Closing Services, a firm specializing in real estate closings in Baja California Sur.

Here’s what you need to know:

What Does Cabo Closing Services Do?

Cabo Closing Services offers specialized support for both buyers and sellers:

• For Buyers: They handle the full closing process, including due diligence, negotiation of the Offer to Purchase, and coordination with the notary and bank.

• For Sellers: They assist with tax guidance to help maximize profits during the sale, as well as document handling and appraisals.

Step-by-Step: The Closing Process in Cabo

1. Offer Accepted: The process officially begins once the buyer and seller agree on an offer, usually facilitated by their real estate agents.

2. Due Diligence Period: This phase typically lasts 15–20 days and includes:

   • Reviewing property documents

   • Confirming a clean title (free of liens)

   • Conducting a home inspection to ensure the property is in good structural condition

3. Formal Closing Preparation: Once due diligence is complete:

   • Buyer and seller submit necessary documents

   • The notary and trustee bank begin preparing the final deed (whether through a Fideicomiso or corporate structure)

   • The final deed is signed before a Notario Público and sent to public records

4. Final Closing: After official registration, the buyer receives their final property deed, and the transaction is complete.

Documents Needed for Closing

The required documents depend on whether the party is an individual, an LLC, or using a trust:

If the Buyer is an Individual:

• Valid passport

• Proof of address

• Contact information (email and phone)

If using an LLC or a U.S. Trust:

• Corporate documents (notarized in the U.S.)

• Apostilled copies

• Certified translations in Spanish (can be facilitated locally)

If the Seller is an Individual:

• Similar personal documents as buyers

If the Seller is an LLC:

• Corporate documents used at the time of purchase (can often be reused if already apostilled and translated)

Common Misconception: What Is a Fideicomiso?

Many foreign buyers mistakenly believe the Fideicomiso (bank trust) is separate from the deed, but it’s actually one single document that includes the title and trust information. This is the legal structure that allows foreigners to own property within Mexico’s restricted zones, such as beachfront areas.

Why Work with a Professional Closing Service?

Partnering with a closing service like Cabo Closing Services ensures:

• Legal compliance in both Mexico and the U.S.

• Smooth coordination with notaries, banks, and translators

• Fewer delays or miscommunications

• A safer, stress-free transaction

About Cabo Closing Services

Located at Altera Corporativo near Pueblito Sunset Beach, Cabo Closing Services is a trusted partner for real estate transactions in the region.

Learn more at caboclosingservices.com.

If you're thinking about buying or selling in Los Cabos and want expert guidance throughout the process, reach out to your Coldwell Banker Riveras agent or leave a comment below—we’re happy to help.