Step 1: Decide Where You Want to Live

Mexico offers a wide variety of living options. Do you prefer the beach, a colonial city, or a big metropolis? Each area has its pros and cons. Renting in Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, or Playa del Carmen will be more expensive compared to places like Mérida, Puebla, or Guanajuato.

Consider these factors when choosing your location:

• Proximity to hospitals and services
• Access to public transportation or walkable neighborhoods
• Safety and expat-friendly areas
• Climate preferences—beach, mountains, or temperate highlands

Once you narrow down your location, you’ll have a better idea of the rental prices in the area. Do some online research or talk to other expats to get realistic expectations.

Step 2: Set Your Budget and Plan for International Transfers

Rental prices in Mexico can range from $400 to over $2,000 USD per month, depending on size, location, and amenities. Most rentals require at least one month of security deposit plus the first month’s rent upfront.

One of the biggest mistakes new expats make is relying on traditional bank transfers to move money from the U.S. to Mexico. These transfers are often expensive, slow, and come with poor exchange rates. In addition, many U.S. debit cards charge international fees when withdrawing pesos from Mexican ATMs.

A better solution is to use Dulloo, a fast and affordable way to send money from the U.S. to Mexico. With Dulloo, you can transfer funds directly from your phone using WhatsApp or the web, and your money arrives in pesos ready to pay rent, utilities, or daily expenses. The service is easy to use, with no hidden fees and better exchange rates than most banks or apps.

By planning your monthly transfers with Dulloo, you can avoid unexpected costs and manage your Mexican living expenses with confidence.

Step 3: Search for the Right Property

Unlike in the U.S., many rental properties in Mexico are not listed on big websites. Most rentals are found through local agents, word-of-mouth, or platforms that are popular within Mexico.

Here’s where you can look:

• Inmuebles24 and Vivanuncios for official listings
• Facebook Marketplace and expat groups for local options
• Local real estate agents (asesores inmobiliarios) for neighborhood-specific opportunities

Some rentals will come fully furnished, while others are completely empty (no appliances, no furniture). Make sure you know what’s included before committing.

Step 4: Understand the Rental Contract

Rental contracts in Mexico are usually in Spanish and are called “Contrato de Arrendamiento.” It’s important to review the document carefully, even if you’ve already agreed verbally with the landlord.

Check for the following details:

• Length of the contract—most are for 12 months, but you can negotiate
• Deposit amount—usually one month’s rent, but some landlords ask for more
• Who pays for repairs—clarify this in writing
• Utilities—understand which services are included or separate

If you don’t speak Spanish fluently, hire a bilingual attorney or translator to review the contract. This small investment can save you from misunderstandings or legal issues later.

Step 5: Prepare Your Documents and Payment Plan

Landlords in Mexico may ask for documents you wouldn’t normally provide in the U.S. It’s common for them to request:

• A copy of your passport
• Your temporary or permanent resident card (if applicable)
• Proof of income or bank statements
• A guarantor (aval), who is often required to own property in Mexico

If you don’t have a guarantor, you can usually negotiate by offering a larger deposit or paying several months in advance. In this case, being able to transfer larger sums easily is important, and Dulloo can help with that too—allowing you to send secure payments from the U.S. directly into pesos, avoiding high bank fees or ATM limits.

Step 6: Inspect the Property Before Signing

Before you sign any contract or transfer any money, make sure to visit the property in person. Look for the following:

• Water pressure and hot water availability
• Internet service and cell reception
• Condition of appliances, windows, and doors
• Signs of mold, leaks, or pest problems

Take pictures of any existing damage and have the landlord acknowledge them in writing. This helps avoid disputes when you move out.

Step 7: Set Up Utilities and Manage Payments

In most rentals, the tenant is responsible for paying utilities. The main services include:

• Electricity (CFE – Comisión Federal de Electricidad)
• Water (handled by local municipalities)
• Gas (either propane tanks or piped gas)
• Internet (providers like Telmex, Izzi, or TotalPlay)

These bills are often paid online, at OXXO convenience stores, or via the provider’s app. Many expats use Dulloo to send monthly funds from the U.S. to cover all these expenses in pesos, making it easier to avoid currency exchange headaches or cash shortages.

Step 8: Know Your Tenant Rights

Mexico has rental laws designed to protect both tenants and landlords. However, enforcement can vary depending on the city or state.

Important points to remember:

• Once you have a valid contract, the landlord cannot remove you without legal process.
• Security deposits must be returned unless there’s real, documented damage.
• If disputes arise, mediation is often faster and cheaper than going to court.

Keep copies of all contracts, receipts, and conversations. Many people in Mexico use WhatsApp for communication, so save screenshots and confirmations for your records.

Conclusion: Renting in Mexico Made Simple

Renting a home in Mexico can be an exciting step toward a better lifestyle, but it requires preparation. By choosing the right location, setting a realistic budget, and using tools like Dulloo to handle your monthly transfers, you’ll avoid the most common headaches.

Dulloo is designed for expats like you—helping you move money quickly and safely from the U.S. to Mexico without losing money on fees or bad exchange rates. Whether it’s paying your rent, electricity, or everyday expenses, Dulloo makes living in Mexico simpler and more affordable.

Take your time, ask plenty of questions, and don’t be afraid to negotiate. With the right approach and the right tools, you’ll find a comfortable place to live and enjoy all the experiences that Mexico has to offer.