If you’re thinking about buying property in the Riviera Maya, you might be wondering—do real estate agents need a license in Quintana Roo? The answer is yes!
In Quintana Roo, real estate professionals must hold a valid license issued by SEDETUS (Secretaría de Desarrollo Territorial Urbano Sustentable). This legal requirement has been in place since March 2015, with additional reforms enacted in July 2021 to strengthen enforcement.
These updates granted SEDETUS the power to sanction agents operating without the necessary accreditation, protecting buyers and sellers from unqualified or fraudulent practitioners.
Despite the illegality and the threat of government sanctions, there are still many agents working without real estate licenses in the Riviera Maya.
Why Work with a Licensed Agent?
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Buying real estate in Mexico is a significant investment, and working with a real estate agent who is licensed in Quintana Roo provides numerous benefits, including:
Legal Protection
Only a licensed real estate professional is legally authorized to conduct real estate transactions, ensuring that contracts, negotiations, and property transfers comply with state and federal laws. This protects buyers from fraudulent deals or misrepresented properties.
Market Knowledge & Expertise
Licensed real estate agents complete rigorous training (including 120 hours of coursework plus 30 hours of annual continuing education) to stay informed about market trends, regulations, and legal procedures. Their expertise ensures you make an informed decision and avoid common pitfalls.
Verified Credibility & Accountability
Licensed agents are registered with SEDETUS, making them accountable for their actions. They must follow ethical business practices and are subject to oversight and sanctions if they fail to comply with regulations.
Secure Transactions
A licensed realtor helps you navigate the due diligence process, verifying property ownership, checking for liens, and ensuring that all documentation is legitimate before you commit to a purchase. This helps prevent costly legal issues down the line.
Access to Trusted Professionals
Licensed real estate agents have a network of lawyers, notaries, and financial experts who can assist with closing transactions, obtaining fideicomisos (for foreign buyers), and ensuring that everything is done correctly and legally.
Potential Risks of Using an Unlicensed Agent
Hiring an unlicensed or unaccredited real estate agent can expose you to significant risks, including:
Fraud & Misrepresentation
Unlicensed agents are not regulated, meaning they can misrepresent properties, hide legal issues, or even sell properties they don’t have the legal right to sell. Many real estate scams in Mexico involve unaccredited agents.
No Legal Authority to Represent You
Without a valid SEDETUS license, an agent cannot legally represent buyers or sellers in real estate transactions. This means that any agreements they facilitate could be challenged or even deemed invalid—even after closing.
Financial Loss
Unlicensed agents often cut corners, omitting important legal steps like checking property titles, ensuring tax compliance, or confirming the existence of a fideicomiso (bank trust). This can lead to huge financial losses and even the risk of losing your property.
Lack of Accountability
If something goes wrong with your transaction, an unlicensed agent has no governing body holding them accountable. They can disappear, leaving you with a problematic or even nonexistent property purchase.
Risk of Fines & Legal Issues
Real estate transactions conducted by unlicensed agents violate state laws, and buyers could unknowingly become involved in legal disputes over property ownership or contract validity.
Real Estate Agent or REALTOR®? What’s in a Name?
It’s important o understand the relationship between AMPI, NAR, and the REALTOR® designation revolves around professional real estate organizations and standards that promote ethical business practices, education, and industry regulations. Here’s how they connect:
NAR (National Association of REALTORS®)
NAR is the largest real estate trade organization in the United States and sets the industry standard for professional conduct and ethics.
- NAR members use the REALTOR® designation, which signifies they are part of an organization that adheres to a strict Code of Ethics.
- NAR provides education, networking opportunities, and advocacy for real estate professionals.
- NAR has international agreements with organizations like AMPI to promote global real estate standards.
AMPI (Asociación Mexicana de Profesionales Inmobiliarios)
AMPI is the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals, similar to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in the United States. It is a private, non-governmental organization that promotes professional standards, ethical practices, and continuing education for real estate professionals in Mexico.
- AMPI members adhere to a code of ethics similar to NAR’s, ensuring responsible and transparent real estate transactions.
- Membership in AMPI is voluntary but highly regarded, as it demonstrates professionalism and commitment to ethical practices.
- AMPI works closely with government agencies and advocates for regulations, such as the requirement for real estate licensing in Quintana Roo.
The REALTOR® Designation
- The term REALTOR® is a trademarked designation exclusive to members of NAR (in the U.S.) and affiliated organizations like AMPI (in Mexico).
- Not all real estate agents are REALTORS®—only those who are members of NAR or an international affiliate like AMPI can legally use this title.
- The REALTOR® designation signifies a higher level of professional standards, adherence to a code of ethics, and ongoing education.
How They Work Together in Mexico
- AMPI has an agreement with NAR, allowing its members to obtain the REALTOR® designation and benefit from NAR resources, international networking, and additional training.
- While AMPI membership is not a legal requirement in Mexico, it is highly recommended for agents who want to establish credibility and access global real estate networks.
- Many licensed real estate agents in Quintana Roo and the Riviera Maya choose to join AMPI in addition to holding the mandatory SEDETUS license to enhance their reputation and professional standing.
If you’re buying real estate in the Riviera Maya, working with an AMPI-certified, SEDETUS-licensed REALTOR® ensures higher standards, ethical practices, and legal compliance.
What to Look for in a Real Estate Agent
Finding the right real estate agent is just as important as finding the right property. Here are some key factors to consider:
Verify Their License
The first and most important step is to ensure they are licensed and in good standing with SEDETUS. Real Estate Licenses in Quintana Roo must be renewed every year. You can check the official list of recognized agents here:
SEDETUS Licensed Real Estate Agents
Click on “PADRÓN” to see the most up-to-date registry of licensed agents.
Check Their Experience & Local Knowledge
A knowledgeable agent should have a strong understanding of the local real estate market, including:
- Market trends and property values
- The best areas for investment
- Legal requirements for foreign buyers
Ask how long they’ve been working in the Riviera Maya and if they specialize in the type of property you’re interested in (residential, commercial, investment, etc.).
Be Sure to Ask for Referrences
Check their online presence—Google, Facebook, LinkedIn, real estate groups—and look for verified client testimonials. A reputable agent should be happy to provide references from past buyers and sellers.
Don’t forget to ask for referrences in local Facebook groups. Groups like Expats and Locals in Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras Living are packed with people just like you who are happy to share their experiences with you and recommend good agents to work with—and who to avoid.
Ask About Their Processes & Legal Knowledge
A professional agent should be able to explain:
- The buying process in Mexico, including fideicomisos and escritura pública
- What legal checks must be conducted on properties
- How they handle negotiations and closing procedures
- How to estimate and potentially mitigate capital gains
If an agent cannot clearly explain the real estate process in Quintana Roo or seems unsure of legal requirements, consider it a red flag.
Ensure They Work with a Trusted Network
A good agent should have connections with notaries, real estate attorneys, banks, and property inspectors to help guide you through every step of the process. Membership in AMPI is not required but certainly desirable.
Transparency in Fees & Commissions
A licensed real estate agent should be upfront about their fees and commissions. The average commission rate in this market for a resale is 7% but rates in this region can run from 5% on presale properties and new developments all the way up to 10% (highly motivated sellers). The commission is paid by the seller. If an agent is vague about costs or tries to charge additional fees, it’s best to look elsewhere.
Communication & Availability
Your agent should be responsive, professional, and easy to communicate with. Buying property in another country can be complex, so you need an agent who is accessible and keeps you informed every step of the way.
Are you looking to Buy or Sell?
By choosing a licensed agent, you protect your investment and ensure a smooth, legally compliant transaction. Don’t take risks with your hard-earned money—work with a professional who is trained, accountable, and legally authorized to assist you in buying real estate in the Riviera Maya.
Thinking about investing in property? Make sure you work with an experienced, reputable and licensed agent.
If you would like our help to connect with the best, licensed agents—people we count on for their hionesty and expertice—do not hesitate to contact us personally.
