Shanna Garneau · Trilingual Real Estate Broker — Mérida & Montréal
Licensed broker for more than a decade, relocated from Montreal to Mérida in 2025 — I've done the exact move you're planning, and I've built a trusted network — notary, bank, contractor — so my clients can do it right. No pressure, no "paradise" sales pitch. I help you figure out what you actually need, what things really cost, and how to buy safely as a foreigner. English, français, español — whichever is easiest for you.
Mérida · Buying or Relocating
A clear read on your budget, timeline, and whether Mérida even fits the life you're picturing — before we look at a single listing.
Straight talk on what each area offers, what closing costs, and what ownership really involves — not the version built to get you excited.
A trusted network — notary, bank, contractor — built with my partners at Intown Yucatán so you're supported start to finish.
Who can own
In general, yes. Foreign buyers can hold title directly to property in Mérida itself, with the required foreign-ownership permits handled through the notario.
Near the coast, the rules are different. In coastal areas such as Progreso, Chelem or Telchac, foreign buyers use a fideicomiso: a bank trust in which a Mexican bank holds legal title as trustee and you are the beneficiary, with the rights of an owner. Trusts typically run up to 50 years and can generally be renewed or transferred. Expect set-up costs and annual trustee fees.
The process
Every deal moves at its own pace, but most follow the same path.
Your budget, how you will use the home (full time, seasonal, rental, investment), your timeline and your must-haves. Decide how you will fund the purchase before you tour.
See neighborhoods and properties, in person or by video, ideally across more than one visit. Compare homes in the same area.
A written offer sets the price and conditions. Nothing is final until the contracts are signed.
Once the offer is accepted, a promissory (promise-to-sell) contract is signed and a deposit is paid. Deposits are often quoted in the 5 to 10 percent range, and they are negotiable. Know exactly when the deposit becomes non-refundable.
Your notario and, ideally, your own lawyer check title, liens, taxes, permits and the seller's authority to sell. This is the step that protects you.
The deed is signed, taxes and fees are paid and the balance is transferred.
The deed is registered in the public registry, utilities are transferred and the keys are yours.
Timelines vary with the complexity of the deal. Many sources quote roughly 30 to 90 days from accepted offer to closing.
The numbers
Beyond the price, buyers commonly budget in the range of roughly 5 to 8 percent for closing costs. The exact amount depends on the property, the notario and whether a trust is needed. Typical components:
Due diligence
In Mexico, a notario público is a highly qualified public official. The notario reviews documents, calculates and coordinates taxes, prepares the deed (or the trust) and registers the transaction.
One point surprises many Canadians: the notario is a neutral official and is not necessarily your personal legal representative. Many international buyers also hire an independent lawyer. Ask me and I will introduce you to professionals I trust.
Usually a valid passport and proof of address, plus any tax-ID registration your notario requests. The notario gives you the exact list for your deal.
Neighborhoods
Four neighborhoods many buyers start with. Each has its own character, so the best way to compare is to tour more than one.
The historic heart of Mérida, built around the Plaza Grande, with the Cathedral, the Governor's Palace, Casa Montejo, the MACAY museum and city hall on or beside the square.
Explore →A largely residential neighborhood near Paseo de Montejo, crossed by the busy Avenida Colón.
Explore →Once a separate Maya village on the northeastern edge of the city, Itzimná is known for its large, established homes, shade trees and an 18th-century church that is a popular wedding venue.
Explore →Two of Mérida's oldest barrios, close to the center.
Explore →Questions
In general, yes. Foreign buyers can hold title directly to property in Mérida itself, with the required foreign-ownership permits handled through the notario.
In coastal areas such as Progreso, Chelem or Telchac, foreign buyers use a fideicomiso: a bank trust in which a Mexican bank holds legal title as trustee and you are the beneficiary, with the rights of an owner. Trusts typically run up to 50 years and can generally be renewed or transferred, with set-up costs and annual trustee fees.
Timelines vary with the complexity of the deal. Many sources quote roughly 30 to 90 days from accepted offer to closing.
Beyond the price, buyers commonly budget in the range of roughly 5 to 8 percent. The amount depends on the property, the notario and whether a trust is needed. Ask for a written, itemized estimate before your deposit becomes non-refundable.
The notario is a neutral public official and is not necessarily your personal legal representative. Many international buyers also hire an independent lawyer.
Title and the seller's authority to sell, liens and mortgages, property taxes and utilities, land status, building permits and boundaries, association balances, and what is included in the price.
Yes. I work in English, French and Spanish, and you can choose whichever is easiest for you.
This page is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Laws, fees and procedures change and every property is different. Confirm everything with a Mexican notario público and independent advisors before you commit.
Free Download
How buying works for a foreign buyer, what closing really costs, a due-diligence checklist, four neighborhoods to start with, and the questions (and red flags) to bring when you tour. Instant download, no drip campaign after — I follow up myself only if you want to keep talking.
Let's Talk
Whether you're buying or selling in Montréal, thinking about Mérida, or just have a question about one of the journals — reach out directly. WhatsApp, email, or a quick note below.
English · français · español — whichever is easiest for you.