Avoid Real Estate Fraud in Quintana Roo

Cancún — Amid growth in Mexico's mortgage credit sector, financial specialists have warned of an increase in real estate fraud and irregular operations in the state of Quintana Roo, where demand for housing and land has opened the door to purported advisors operating without certification or banking backing.

Strengthening Regulation

During the National SOC 2025 Convention "Leading with Values," the executive director of mortgage credit, Gonzalo Palafox, underscored the need to strengthen the regulation and professionalization of the broker channel to prevent scams that affect both families and financial institutions.

"We work exclusively with brokers validated through formal contracts and exhaustive review processes. Any advisor who does not have a direct relationship with the bank is not authorized to offer financial products on our behalf," the executive specified.

Fertile Ground for Fraud

The phenomenon is particularly concerning in tourist entities like Quintana Roo, where the dynamic real estate market—driven by the expansion of Cancún, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen—has generated fertile ground for fraud in the sale of land and purported mortgage credits.

Financial authorities and sector organizations agree that a lack of information and an excess of trust are the main factors allowing the operation of false agents or "intermediaries" who promise fast processing and preferential rates. In many cases, victims hand over down payments or personal documentation without verifying the identity or accreditation of the supposed broker.

Professional Brokers Are Key

Palafox explained that certified professional brokers play a key role in access to credit, as they guide the client, simplify procedures, and offer real comparisons between banks. However, he insisted that the relationship between financial institutions and advisors must be based on transparency, values, and reliable validation processes.

"It is fundamental that users confirm that the advisor they are dealing with is duly registered and has a formal relationship with the institution. In case of doubt, they should go directly to the bank's branches or official channels," he recommended.

Irregularity Proliferates

The warning comes in a context where Quintana Roo maintains a high demand for housing, especially among workers in the tourism sector and new residents attracted by the state's growth. However, market pressure has also led to the proliferation of irregular schemes ranging from false credits to sales of land without legal certainty.

Specialists agreed that professionalizing the role of the broker not only protects clients but also strengthens the reputation of the financial system and prevents the improper use of banks' images.