What Does a Notario Público Do in a Mexico Real Estate Purchase?

A Mexican notario público has a formal legal role in real estate transfers. The notario is not simply a document witness; the office participates in formalizing the transaction and the public instruments required for the transfer.

The notario's role is different from that of a buyer's independent attorney, tax adviser or real estate agent. Buyers may choose additional professional representation depending on the complexity of the transaction and their personal situation.

During the closing process, the transaction may require review of title-related documents, identities and authority of the parties, tax or registration matters and, where applicable, fideicomiso documentation.

Buyers should ask early which notario will handle the transaction, what documents are required, what estimates are available and how funds and signing will be coordinated.

ALTEPA REALTY can help coordinate the property side of the transaction while the notario and independent advisers handle their respective legal and professional responsibilities.