T
he Wild West era of Yucatán real estate has come to an end with the implementation of new regulations. As of May, Yucatán became the 25th Mexican state to require real estate licensing, aiming to protect buyers' assets and professionalize the sector.

    Real estate brokers in Yucatán must undergo training in areas such as tax obligations, policies, and best practices before obtaining a license. The new regulations affect anyone involved in real estate brokerage, including sales agents, property managers, and consultants. Foreign nationals must also demonstrate proper immigration status and work authorization.

    The Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI) issued the warning after the Institute of Legal Security of Patrimonial Property of Yucatán published new regulations on May 21. The rules create a mandatory State Registry of Real Estate Agents, with three license types: A for certified advisors, B for agencies, and C for affiliated advisors.

    To obtain a license, agents must complete at least 50 hours of specialized classroom training, plus yearly renewals. They must also obtain EC0110.02 certificates from the Conocer program and comply with Mexican Official Standard NOM-247, which regulates adhesion contracts and establishes ethical performance obligations.

    The new requirements are expected to significantly reduce the number of informal real estate intermediaries in Yucatán, currently estimated at 15,000 to 20,000 people. The licensing requirement comes as Yucatán's real estate market experiences unprecedented growth, attracting domestic and international buyers.

    Properties near new developments have appreciated 15-20% more than the market average, showing the dynamic nature of the current market. International buyers are increasingly active, with some developments now accepting cryptocurrency payments. The timing coincides with major infrastructure investments, including the Mayan Train project, which has increased Yucatán's visibility as an investment destination.

    Yucatán became the only Mexican state requiring notaries to verify real estate advisor credentials before authorizing property deeds, adding an additional layer of protection for buyers and sellers. Non-compliance penalties can reach 226,000 pesos, plus license revocation and proportional penalties based on transaction values.

    The regulations bring the profession closer to international standards, where agents must pass extensive exams and maintain continuing education. Over 450 foreign companies are relocating operations to Mexico, creating sustained demand for both residential and commercial properties.

    AMPI will collaborate with authorities on training and certifying new professionals, offering courses, seminars, and continuing education to help agents meet new requirements. For international buyers, particularly Americans and Canadians familiar with licensed real estate systems, the new requirements provide additional confidence in transactions.