Yes, foreigners may acquire property in Mexico. However, if the property lies within a "restricted zone" such as along borders or in coastal areas, it must be purchased via a legal instrument called a "fidei comiso" or, bank trust. This trust gives you, the beneficiary of the trust, the same rights and obligations as full ownership.

A fidei comiso must be established and recorded by a "notario" or, notary public. Your real estate agent should be able to recommend a notario to establish the trust as well as a bank to administer it. Notarios and banks charge competitive fees for their services and the fees depend partly upon the stated value of the property. Most real estate agents work with one notario who works with one bank but are, in fact, able to work with those that you choose. Check out your options and get estimates on fees from a few different notarios and banks.

You'll need to provide basic information such as name, address and phone number in the US (or other country of origin), occupation and nationality. If married, the same information will be required of your spouse. You'll need to provide a copy of your passport and tourist visa. The name, nationality, address and phone number of any secondary beneficiary to the trust will also be required.

Again, costs vary from notario to notario and from bank to bank. Your real estate agent should help you obtain written estimates from notarios and banks regarding the fees for the establishment and yearly maintenance of the fideicomiso.

Ask lots of questions and interview several different agents and/or brokers. Business operates at a slower pace in Mexico so try not to be in too much of a hurry but you can insist that your agent communicate with you regularly and keep you posted during every step of acquiring a property. Real estate agents will tell you that you don't need a lawyer involved in real estate transactions. This is technically true and your real estate agent should be able to translate negotiations for you. However, if you feel more comfortable that your interests, not the interests of the seller, will be protected by hiring your own lawyer then, by all means, do so. Remember, the real estate agent is paid by the seller, not the buyer. There are English-speaking lawyers on the island knowledgeable in real estate transactions.

There really is no "average" home on Cozumel. Property is priced based on what the seller and real estate agent feel the property will sell for. It's possible to find homes in town priced from around $75,000 US Dollars but be prepared for repairs and renovations at this price. Though bargains do exist, a more realistic price for a home in town would begin around $125,000 US Dollars or more. Beachfront homes, if you can find one for sale, start at around $500,000 US Dollars. The best way to gauge prices on the island is to look at many properties and then look some more. This is the only way to truly get a feel for the types of homes available and what is a reasonable price to pay. Remember, your real estate agent represents the seller.

A reputable agent should make a list available to you. It's best to be specific about a price range when requesting listings but be flexible too as you may find spending a little bit more will get you a lot more in the long run. Also keep in mind that Cozumel is currently a seller's market. You will get more for your money by purchasing land and building your home.

There are plenty of property management companies on Cozumel who can care for your property in your absence. Again, ask lots of questions and interview several companies. Find out exactly how your home will be maintained and all the fees involved. Property managers should be able to put your home into their vacation rental pool if you desire. Additional fees will be involved in the rental of your home and you should receive a written contract which clearly states all fees or commissions that you are expected to pay as well as outlines how your home will be cared for. The property manager should also provide you with detailed monthly statements of your income and expenses along with original receipts.

One, don't be in a hurry. Visit the island and conduct your interviews of real estate agents and/or brokers until you feel comfortable with one - or more. Remember, you don't have to depend on just one agent. Most agents have their own listings and some do not share theirs with others so use all the available resources. Two, talk to friends and acquaintances living on the island. Make a point to get to know them and let them get to know you. "Locals" often know of properties for sale which are not listed with any realtor. Later, you can obtain a lawyer to be involved in negotiations and in supervising the purchase transaction. And three, be prepared to make more than one trip to the island to find that perfect home. Try to be prepared to make a spur of the moment trip to the island should your agent call you with a new listing that fits your needs and price range.

****Note: After receiving countless requests for information on buying real estate on Cozumel Island, I have provided the above information as a free service to those interested.It is based on questions which I am most frequently asked as well as my own personal experience as a foreigner buying property on Cozumel. Though the article is based upon a great deal of research, I am not a real estate agent and do not represent myself as, or claim to be, an agent or any kind of authority on real estate transactions. I hope the information presented here is of help to you in your pursuit of your island dream home. If there is anything else you'd like to read about in future articles please let me know.