Free guide for cross-border buyers

The Puerto Vallarta Buyer’s Guide

A 16-page guide from Lance Fulford, M.B.A., CIPS, for U.S. and Canadian buyers. It explains how foreign ownership works, how a purchase moves from offer to keys, and what to check before you commit, with checklists to take on your viewings.

What’s inside

1. 01

   Welcome to Puerto Vallarta

   Lance’s approach, and how to use the guide.

2. 02

   Foreign ownership: the fideicomiso

   How the bank trust works in the restricted coastal zone, the typical sequence and ongoing bank fees.

3. 03

   Insurance and financing

   What coverage to ask about, financing options and how to move funds safely.

4. 04

   The buying process

   Four steps, from defining your brief to due diligence.

5. 05

   From contract to keys

   Deposits and escrow, the notary’s role, closing costs and what to do after closing.

6. 06

   Property types and trade-offs

   Condominiums, houses and villas, new development, and turnkey or renovation.

7. 07

   Finding the right property

   Total ownership costs, working with local professionals and a touring checklist.

8. 08

   Residency and immigration

   Why owning a home doesn’t confer residency, and what to plan before you relocate.

9. 09

   Neighborhood fit and FAQs

   Zona Romántica, Centro, Amapas, Conchas Chinas, Marina Vallarta, Versalles and the Riviera Nayarit; beachfront, rentals and closing timelines.

10. 10

    Additional considerations

    Five areas to settle before your deposit becomes nonrefundable.