How to legally verify a developer before buying
Buying off-plan property means trusting a promise: the developer will deliver what they offer, on time and at the agreed quality. Before signing anything, check five public sources that dramatically reduce risk.
1. PROFECO history
Mexico's federal consumer agency publishes the Buró Comercial with the number of complaints, conciliations, and arbitration proceedings against every real estate provider. A developer with most complaints resolved in favor of the consumer is a warning sign. Search by legal name and trade name.
2. INSEJUPY (Yucatán) / state property registry
The Patrimonial Legal Security Institute confirms who legally owns the lot, free of liens, seizures, or disputes. Ask the developer for the folio real number and verify it online or at the counter. Quintana Roo uses its state Public Property Registry.
3. Construction and land-use permits
Request copies of: municipal construction license, environmental impact statement (MIA if applicable), land-use certificate, utility feasibility. SEDETUS and SEDUOPI are the relevant state agencies in Yucatán and Quintana Roo.
4. Legal incorporation and powers
Request the current articles of incorporation, tax ID (RFC), and notarized power of attorney for the signer. Confirm the person signing the contract is empowered to bind the company. An S.A.P.I. de C.V. less than two years old may be legitimate but requires extra diligence.
5. Verifiable track record
Request a list of delivered projects with address, year, and unit count. Visit at least one finished project and talk to two residents. The gap between renders and built reality is the most valuable data point you can obtain.
Final checklist before signing
- PROFECO Buró consulted and saved as PDF
- INSEJUPY/RPP folio real confirmed
- Current construction license received
- Articles of incorporation and power of attorney validated
- In-person visit to a delivered project
- Contract reviewed by independent counsel