Information is the Solution.
It is essential that the inhabitants of Puerto Vallarta are informed and prepared to face the risks associated with real estate transactions, especially in a context where fraudulent practices can be recurrent. Here I share legal and practical strategies to prevent fraud in the purchase and sale of land:
- Verification of ownership
Before carrying out any transaction, it is essential to confirm the legitimacy of the land and its owner.
● Check with the Public Property Registry:
Request a certificate of freedom or encumbrance to verify that the land has no debts, mortgages, seizures or other legal problems.
● Review of the title of property:
The seller must present an authentic and updated title of property. Be wary of copies or incomplete documents.
2. Confirmation of the seller's identity
Verify that the person or company selling the land is the legal owner.
● Identity documents:
Ask for a copy of their official identification (INE or passport) and compare it with the data on the property title.
● Notarial powers:
If an agent represents the owner, request the original notarial power certifying their authorization to sell the land.
3. Validation of land use and municipal regulations
In Puerto Vallarta, many plots of land are subject to specific regulations due to their location and tourist value.
● Consult with the Urban Planning Department:
Make sure that the land has the appropriate land use for your intentions (housing, business, etc.) and verify that it is not in a risk zone (floods, landslides).
● Review of municipal permits:
Confirm that there are no problems related to zoning or urban development plans.
4. Use of well-drafted contracts
The purchase-sale contract must be detailed and contain all the conditions necessary to protect your interests.
● Involve a real estate attorney:
Avoid using generic formats and hire a professional to ensure that the contract is legal and clear.
● Essential clauses:
Include details about:
○ Total price and payment method.
○ Deadlines for delivery of the land.
○ Legal consequences in case of non-compliance.
5. Secure payment
Avoid making payments in cash or without a receipt, as these are practices that facilitate fraud.
● Use verified bank accounts:
Make electronic transfers with proof to leave evidence of the transaction.
● Do not give money without guarantees:
Make sure that the land is free of legal problems before making significant payments.
6. Notarization before a public notary
All land sales must be formalized before a public notary to ensure its legality.
● Choosing a reliable notary:
Choose an accredited notary who is not linked to the seller.
● Public deed:
Require that the sale be registered as a public deed to give it legal validity.
7. Beware of intermediaries
In Puerto Vallarta, real estate frauds often involve intermediaries who operate with dishonest practices.
● Registered real estate agents:
Verify that the agent is certified by the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI).
● Be wary of overly attractive offers:
Very low prices or quick promises are often signs of fraud.
8. Report irregularities
If you detect possible fraud or irregularities, act immediately:
● Jalisco State Attorney General's Office:
File a complaint with the attorney's office specializing in property crimes.
● Profeco:
In case of problems with real estate agencies, go to the Federal Consumer Protection Agency for advice.
● Puerto Vallarta City Hall:
Report suspicious practices in the Urban Development offices.
9. Avoid unregulated communal lands
In Puerto Vallarta there are still lands under the communal regime that have not been regularized, which represents a high risk.
● Regularization before the National Agrarian Registry (RAN):
If you decide to buy communal land, make sure that it is in the process of regularization and request official certificates from the communal land.
10. Community education and advice
The People of Puerto Vallarta must be strengthened through information and community networks.
● Organize legal education workshops:
Involve lawyers and real estate experts to teach the population how to identify fraud.
● Promote networks of trust:
Establish neighborhood groups to share information about suspicious sellers, land, and real estate agents.
Legal strengthening and education are essential for the People of Puerto Vallarta to avoid falling into real estate fraud. In addition to protecting themselves in each transaction, it is important to report and generate collective awareness to dismantle dishonest practices. With these strategies, the people of Vallarta can defend their heritage and guarantee a safer and stronger local economy.