Frequently Asked Questions

You Asked, We Answered

WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR NEIGHBORHOODS IN GUADALAJARA FOR EXPATS?

The most popular areas in Guadalajara/Zapopan for expats (in no particular order) are: Providencia, Country Club, Colonia Americana, Ladron de Guevara, Santa Tere, Chapalita, Puerto de Hierro, La Estancia, Bugambilias, Valle Real, Plaza del Sol, Jardines del Bosque, Monraz, La Minerva and Vallarta Norte. Read our blog for more details.

DO YOU CHARGE FOR YOUR SERVICES?

Yes. We value time and we take pride in the services we offer our clients. Our goal is to make it an easy and stress-free process renting here in Guadalajara/Zapopan. Our fees are very accessible starting from $2,500 MXN. A payment of 50% is required to engage our services with the remaining 50% paid when we find your dream home.

DO YOU SPEAK SPANISH?

Yes, our team is fully bilingual.

FAQ's FOR RENTERS

WHAT IS AN AVAL OR OBLIGADO SOLIDARIO?

When renting in Guadalajara/Zapopan it's standard for property owners to request an Aval or Obligado Solidario.

An Aval is someone who owns a property in Guadalajara/Zapopan or an Obligado Solidario is someone who is a permanent resident of Guadalajara/Zapopan (doesn't have to own a property) who is willing to co-sign with you and take responsibility in case of unpaid rent.

WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS IF I DON'T HAVE AN AVAL?

Don't worry, we can help you! You have the option of a Justicia Alternativa contract which is a legal document between the renter and the owner. It's legally binding to protect both parties and in the event that there is a dispute, the final decision will be made by a judge.

If you don't have an Aval, an owner will sometimes request a renter to pay an extra deposit or rent in advance.

DO I NEED TO BE A TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT RESIDENT TO RENT IN GUADALAJARA?

No you don't, although sometimes it's a requirement by the owner.

HOW SOON SHOULD I CONTACT YOU BEFORE I NEED A RENTAL PROPERTY?

A two or three weeks in advance. Properties in Guadalajara/Zapopan move very quickly and demand currently outweighs supply.

FAQ's FOR BUYERS

DO I NEED TO BE A TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT RESIDENT TO BUY PROPERTY IN GUADALAJARA/ZAPOPAN?

No you don't. It's perfectly legal for foreigners to buy and own property in Guadalajara and Zapopan, as both areas are outside of restricted zones (50km from shorelines and 100km from international borders). Foreigners can hold direct deeds to property with the same rights and responsibilities as Mexican nationals.

SHOULD I BUY OR RENT IN GUADALARA/ZAPOPAN?

If you're unfamiliar with Guadalajara, it's advisable to rent before considering buying. When consulting expats in the area, they shared their perspectives on the buy vs. rent decision:

For those planning an extended stay, buying a home can provide a sense of permanence, stability, and potential equity growth over time. However, the costs of purchasing and maintaining a home, as well as property value appreciation, should be carefully considered. If your stay duration is uncertain, renting offers flexibility, less commitment, and often a more affordable living option. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of both choices and select what aligns best with your current circumstances, according to a Guadalajara resident.

CAN I GET A MORTGAGE IN MEXICO?

Mexican mortgages typically have interest rates of 8-12%. Expats can now access loans from Mexican banks and financial institutions.Mortgages are expected to be paid off by the time you reach your early 70s, but some financial institutions have extended the repayment age to 80. Therefore, one of your initial inquiries should revolve around the age at which your mortgage must be fully repaid. . Banks consider Mexican credit scores, but some accept US or Canadian scores. If foreign scores are not accepted, opening a Mexican bank account and obtaining a credit card is recommended. Mortgage approval takes several weeks, so start the application process 3-4 months in advance. Expect extensive Spanish paperwork

SHOULD I BUY A PROPERTY THAT IS PREVENTA (PRESALE)?

Advantages of buying pre-sale (PreVenta) properties include lower prices, installment payment options, adaptable designs, no remodeling costs, and potential for significant value appreciation. However, there are also disadvantages, such as possible delays in property delivery, potential disagreements with the final result, and the inability to immediately occupy the property if you're currently renting. It's important to have contractual protections and consider these factors before making a decision.