State Government Issues Strong Warning on Real Estate Scams in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo – State authorities are warning residents and newcomers alike about the growing danger of real estate fraud in irregular settlements, where organized groups are selling land without legal ownership or documentation.

Cristina Torres Gómez, Secretary of Government for Quintana Roo, addressed the issue after recent clashes in the irregular settlement of San Judas Tadeo, making it clear that buying or invading land without legal certainty is a crime.

“There is no way to pressure the government to legalize an invasion. It is false that services will later arrive. What happens is people lose the money they paid or the homes they built—and in some cases they even face criminal charges,” Torres said.

“Too Good to Be True” Deals

Torres urged people not to be misled by sellers offering “bargain plots” at rock-bottom prices. Without proof of legal ownership, buyers risk losing everything. She stressed that groups often deceive families by saying that if they invade land, public services will eventually follow—a complete falsehood.

Authorities have even found individuals holding multiple parcels of invaded land, showing that in many cases, it is no longer about genuine need, but about organized fraud. Vulnerable families, including migrants, are often exploited in the process.

Alternatives and Legal Options

Torres encouraged families who genuinely need housing to wait for the next phase of federal housing programs, which will soon deliver 35,000 homes in Playa del Carmen. These programs offer legal certainty, construction-ready housing, and access to services.

Fraud Cases in Cancún

The problem extends beyond Playa del Carmen. In Cancún, a real estate fraud scandal worth more than 12 million pesos has already generated 22 complaints. Investigators have identified the involvement of three public notaries, who now face both criminal and administrative proceedings. The penalties could include suspension of their license, but any decision will depend on investigations by the State Attorney General’s Office (FGE) and the courts.

How to Protect Yourself

The state government reminded citizens of critical steps to avoid scams:

• Verify property records at the Public Property Registry.
• Confirm zoning and construction permits with Municipal Urban Development.
• Check whether SEDETUS (the state housing office) has issued permits.
• Ensure the seller’s name matches official property records.
• Treat any sales contract without a notary’s signature as a red flag.

To strengthen buyer protections, the state has launched the Certeza Inmobiliaria working group, a forum where business leaders and government coordinate to review pre-construction housing sales and prevent fraud.

Final Reminder

“Investigate everything before you buy,” Torres said. “If you need help, our offices are open to review documents and provide advice. Don’t risk your money, your home, or your future.”