First Home Buyer Guide in Mexico 2026

Your First Home in Mexico — Where to Start

Buying your first home in Mexico is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make. The process can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into clear steps makes it manageable. This guide covers everything from saving your deposit to collecting the keys.

Saving for Your Deposit

Most lenders in Mexico require a deposit of 10-30% of the property price. The more you save, the better your loan terms and the less you pay in additional costs.

Build your INFONAVIT subcuenta balance through continuous formal employment. Check your points at infonavit.org.mx — you need 1,080 points minimum for a credit. Save separately for the enganche (deposit) and closing costs in a dedicated account. Maintain a clean Buró de Crédito record

Government Support for First-Time Buyers

INFONAVIT provides housing credits based on employer contributions (5% of salary) at subsidised rates far below commercial bank rates. FOVISSSTE provides similar benefits for government workers. Cofinavit combines INFONAVIT with bank financing for higher-value properties. Federal subsidies are available for lower-income buyers purchasing affordable housing

Check our government grants guide for the full list of current programmes and eligibility requirements.

Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Pre-approval tells you exactly how much you can borrow and shows sellers you are a serious buyer. In Mexico, the process works as follows.

Check your INFONAVIT points and credit eligibility first at infonavit.org.mx. If INFONAVIT alone is not enough, explore Cofinavit which combines INFONAVIT with a bank mortgage. For bank-only loans, use the CONDUSEF mortgage simulator to compare across lenders

Use our mortgage calculator to model different scenarios before applying. Read our mortgage types guide to understand which loan product suits your situation.

Understanding the Full Cost of Buying

The purchase price is just the beginning. Budget for additional costs that can add significantly to your total outlay.

ISAI (acquisition tax) of 2-5% depending on the state and municipality. Read our buying costs guide for a complete breakdown of every expense.

Common First-Time Buyer Mistakes

Not checking INFONAVIT eligibility before going to commercial banks (missing subsidised rates), not understanding the total cost (CAT) which includes insurance and fees beyond the interest rate, buying in a poorly located development just because it is INFONAVIT-eligible, and choosing a flat-rate loan (which charges interest on the original principal throughout) instead of a reducing-balance loan

Avoid these pitfalls by taking your time, doing thorough research, and leaning on qualified professionals throughout the process. Our property inspection checklist covers what to check before committing.

Your Step-by-Step Timeline

The typical first home purchase follows these stages: establish your budget and savings target, explore government support options, get pre-approved for financing, search for the right property, make an offer, complete legal due diligence and inspections, and finalise settlement.

Our property buying guide walks through each stage in detail, and our mortgage guide covers everything about financing.

Next Steps

Ready to start? Use our mortgage calculator to see what you can afford, browse Mexico FAQs for quick answers, or explore our full property buying guide.