Thinking about renting in Cabo? Whether it’s a cozy condo in Cabo San Lucas, a beachside home in San José del Cabo, or a quiet retreat in the East Cape, the process comes with questions — lots of them.
This guide covers 40 real questions tenants and landlords ask all the time. You’ll find answers for locals and expats, tips to avoid mistakes, and insights into how the Cabo rental market really works.
General Rental Questions in Cabo
1. What are the requirements to rent a home in Los Cabos?
Like in many parts of Mexico, landlords and real estate agencies in Los Cabos typically expect:
· Valid official ID – usually an INE (voter ID) or passport.
· Proof of address – such as a utility bill (water, electricity, gas) dated within the past three months.
· Proof of income – this could be recent pay stubs, bank statements, or tax returns. Often, landlords expect your income to be around 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent.
· Security deposit and rent upfront – commonly one month’s rent as a deposit plus the first month’s rent.
· Application form – including personal, financial, and employment details.
· Written lease agreement – formal and detailed, ideally reviewed by a legal advisor to align with local regulations.
2. What’s included in the rental price?
· Maintenance of common areas (condo/HOA fees for cleaning, gardens, pool, security, etc.).
· Basic services such as:
o Water (common in apartments; less common in houses)
o Gas (in some cases, especially if it’s a shared stationary tank)
o Internet and/or cable TV (more common in higher-end or furnished rentals)
· Furniture and equipment – if furnished, this usually includes appliances, basic utensils, and sometimes linens.
· Assigned parking – covered or uncovered, depending on the property.
What’s almost never included:
· Electricity – most contracts state the tenant pays it.
· Gas – if it’s an individual setup, the tenant pays.
· Cleaning inside the unit – unless arranged separately.
· Extras such as streaming subscriptions, special equipment maintenance, etc.
3. Can I pay rent in USD?
Yes, you can pay in U.S. dollars if it’s written in the lease. If the currency isn’t specified, rent is assumed to be in Mexican pesos (MXN) by default. Many expat-focused rentals are advertised and priced in USD.
4. Can I write my lease in English?
Yes, it’s possible to have a lease in English, but Spanish is recommended for legal purposes. Ideally, use a bilingual lease (English and Spanish) so both parties fully understand the terms, with the Spanish version serving as the legally binding one.
5. Do I need a co-signer (fiador)?
It’s not as common in Cabo as in other parts of Mexico, but more landlords are requesting it due to past bad experiences. It may become a requirement in more cases.
6. How much deposit should I expect to pay?
Expect about one month’s rent as a security deposit for a furnished or unfurnished rental. For luxury properties, two months’ deposit is common — especially for foreign tenants without local rental references. Always get a receipt or a contract clause confirming the deposit amount and the terms for its return.
7. Can I negotiate rent in Cabo?
Yes, negotiating rent is fairly common, especially if you’re signing a long lease or paying several months upfront. However, in high-demand areas (like beachfront communities or tourist hotspots), foreigners may have less room to negotiate due to strong demand. It never hurts to politely ask — sometimes owners reduce the price by a few thousand pesos.
8. Can I sublease my rental?
Only if your lease explicitly allows it. In Cabo, it’s rare and most owners do not permit it. If you think you might want to sublet (for example, if you leave part of the year), discuss it with the landlord and get it added as a clause in the lease.
9. What’s the typical lease length in Cabo?
Most leases are for 12 months, but 6-month terms and other fixed periods (like 3 or 9 months) are also seen, particularly for expats or seasonal residents. Some landlords are open to seasonal leases (e.g., 6-month winter rentals). Always confirm the dates and whether renewal is possible.
10. Can I make modifications to the property?
· Usually allowed with permission: Painting walls (often with the condition to restore the original color), installing minor accessories like curtains or shelves, or small adjustments for specific needs.
· Usually not allowed without written consent: Structural changes, altering electrical/plumbing/gas installations, removing/replacing included furniture, or building new areas.
· Recommendations: Always request written permission, agree on costs and ownership of the changes, and include the authorization as a lease addendum.
11. Can I prorate rent if I move in mid-month?
Often yes — many landlords charge only for the days remaining in the first month, but confirm before signing.
Tenant-Specific Questions
12. Can a landlord keep my deposit for normal wear and tear?
No. A landlord cannot keep your security deposit for normal wear and tear — those minor signs of living in the home. The deposit should only be used for repairing damages beyond normal use, covering any unpaid rent, or paying outstanding utility bills you owe. Always do a walkthrough at move-in and move-out to document the condition, so “normal wear and tear” versus actual damage is clear to both parties.
12. What’s included in “fully furnished” in Cabo?
“Fully furnished” generally means the property comes with all the basic furniture and appliances you need to live comfortably. This usually includes major furniture (beds, sofa, tables, chairs), kitchen appliances (fridge, stove, microwave), and often basic kitchenware and linens. However, always ask for a written inventory listing every item that comes with the rental. (For example, how many chairs, electronics, decor items, etc.) If you’re an expat renting sight-unseen, request plenty of photos or even a video tour to know exactly what’s included before you arrive.
13. What should I check before signing a lease?
Before signing, verify a few key things:
• Ownership proof: Ensure the person signing as landlord actually owns the property (or represents the owner). They should have no problem showing you a copy of the property title or their official ID matching the name on the title.
• Unpaid bills: Ask if there are any outstanding utility bills, HOA fees, or property taxes. In Cabo, utility accounts sometimes stick with the property, so you want to make sure you’re not inheriting debts for electricity, water, etc.
• HOA rules: If the home is in a gated community or condo complex, request a copy of the homeowner association rules. This way you won’t be caught off guard by, say, a no-pets policy or quiet hours.
• Property condition: Do a walkthrough (in person or virtual) and note any existing damage or issues. Test appliances, lights, water pressure, AC, etc. It’s best to have any repairs done before you move in, or at least list existing issues in the lease or an attached inventory, so you’re not blamed when you move out.
14. How do I pay rent from abroad?
If you’re an expat and need to pay rent from outside Mexico, there are several options. The most common is a Mexican bank transfer (SPEI) if you have a Mexican bank account, but many foreign tenants don’t. Alternatives include using services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) to send money directly to the landlord’s Mexican account with low fees, or using PayPal if both parties agree. Some landlords (especially those who frequently rent to foreigners) might even have a U.S. bank account to accept Zelle or ACH transfers, or they’re open to receiving rent in USD cash if you’re local. The key is to discuss and agree on a convenient payment method before signing the lease, and get it written in the contract.
15. How do utilities work in Cabo?
Utilities in Cabo are similar to elsewhere in Mexico, but with a few local quirks:
· Electricity: Provided by CFE (the federal electric company) and billed every two months. Air conditioning use can drive bills up significantly in the summer. It’s not expensive unless you run AC almost constantly, as if you lived in Canada in winter.
· Water: In town, water usually comes from the municipal system. Some areas — especially rural zones or the East Cape — may lack consistent city water and instead rely on truck delivery (“pipas” in Spanish) to fill a cistern. Clarify how water is supplied to your rental and who pays for delivery. In Cabo San Lucas, most neighborhoods receive water only once a month, which can be challenging. Residents of San José del Cabo or East Cape typically have more frequent service.
· Internet: Cabo has several providers. In many neighborhoods, you can get Telmex or Totalplay fiber-optic internet, which is reliable. More remote areas often rely on wireless providers or satellite services like Starlink. Always check coverage at the exact address. Internet speeds in most urban Cabo areas are fast and comparable to the U.S.
· Gas: Many homes use propane for stoves, hot water, and sometimes dryers. Typically, a truck refills your stationary tank or you swap out portable cylinders. Ask how gas is supplied and its approximate cost.
16. What’s the average electricity cost?
Electricity costs vary widely based on usage. For light usage (fans, lights, fridge, no heavy AC), you might pay around $800 MXN every two months or less. If you run air conditioning often, especially during Cabo’s hot summer, the bill can shoot up to $2,000 MXN or more every two months for a larger home. Mexico has a tiered tariff system, so high usage pushes you into higher rates. It’s a good idea to ask the landlord or previous tenant for recent CFE bills to get an idea of what you might expect for that particular property, given your lifestyle. (Tip: Using ceiling fans, shading windows, and only cooling the rooms you use can help manage electricity bills.)
17. Can the landlord enter without permission?
No, except in genuine emergencies. Once you’re renting, the home is your private space. A landlord should not enter without your permission or without giving you prior notice and arranging a suitable time. It’s common courtesy (and often law) that landlords give at least 24 hours notice for any routine visit, maintenance, or showing. The only exception would be an emergency (like a burst pipe or fire) where immediate access is needed to protect the property or lives. Make sure your lease outlines the notice period for landlord visits, so everyone’s on the same page.
18. What happens if the property is sold during my lease?
If your landlord sells the property while you’re mid-lease, the new owner must honor your lease until it expires. In other words, a sale doesn’t nullify your contract. You will simply pay rent to the new owner (or their property manager), and all the original terms of the lease remain in effect. It’s a good idea to have a clause in the lease stating this, but even if it’s not there, Mexican rental law generally protects tenants in this situation. You cannot be kicked out just because the house changed hands, at least not until your lease term is up (unless you negotiate a mutual agreement to end it early, often with compensation).
19. Can I leave before the lease ends?
You can, but there will typically be penalties for early termination. Breaking a lease early in Cabo usually means you may forfeit your security deposit. Some contracts might specify an early termination fee (like one or two months’ rent). In any case, it should be addressed in your lease. If you simply leave and stop paying, the landlord could potentially take legal action or keep your deposit. If you think you might need an escape clause (for job relocation, etc.), discuss it before signing and get an agreement in writing. Otherwise, be prepared to negotiate with your landlord if you must leave early — sometimes they’ll be understanding if they can find a new tenant quickly, but legally you’re on the hook for the lease term unless you have a break clause.
Landlord-Specific Questions
20. Can I evict a tenant for non-payment?
Yes, non-payment of rent is grounds for eviction, but you must go through the legal process in Baja California Sur. You cannot evict a tenant yourself by changing locks, shutting off utilities, or physically removing their belongings — those actions are illegal. Instead, you’d file a formal eviction lawsuit (desalojo) through the local courts. The process can take a few weeks or even months, depending on the case, and you need to have a clear breach (like unpaid rent or violation of lease terms). Always document everything and try to resolve issues amicably first. But bottom line: yes, you can remove a non-paying tenant, just not without the proper court order.
21. How do I protect my property before renting?
Protecting your property starts before the tenant moves in. Here are a few key steps:
• Use a solid lease: Have a well-written rental contract that covers important points (deposit, duration, rent due date, late fees, maintenance responsibilities, etc.). It should be in Spanish (or bilingual) to be enforceable.
• Inventory and photos: Create an inventory list of your furniture and appliances (if furnished) and take date-stamped photos of each room and any existing damage. Have the tenant sign off on the inventory. This documentation will be critical if there’s a dispute over damages later.
• Screen tenants: Do your homework on prospective renters. That means checking their ID, asking for proof of income or employment, and getting references (previous landlord references for locals, or maybe an employer reference for expats). For foreign tenants who can’t provide local references, consider requiring a larger deposit or a few months of rent upfront for security.
• Property prep: Make sure everything in the house is in good working order (plumbing, electrical, appliances) before renting out. Not only will this make the tenant happier, it also sets a baseline that everything was functioning at move-in.
22. How do I screen tenants in Cabo?
Tenant screening in Cabo is similar to elsewhere, with a few adjustments for the mix of local and foreign renters:
• For local (Mexican) tenants: Ask for official ID (e.g., INE), proof of stable income (pay stubs or an employment letter), and perhaps a couple of personal or professional references. Some local landlords also ask for a fiador (as mentioned, a co-signer).
• For foreign (expat) tenants: In addition to a passport copy, you might ask for proof of income (or ability to pay, like bank statements if they’re retired or remote workers). Since expats won’t have a local credit history or easily provide a fiador, it’s common to request a higher security deposit or several months rent in advance. You can also ask for a reference from a previous landlord (even if it’s abroad) or an employer reference if applicable.
• Gut feeling and communication: Beyond paperwork, trust your instincts from meeting or speaking with the tenant. Good communication and clarity on expectations upfront often predict a smoother tenancy.
• Real estate agents in Cabo typically investigate potential tenants. If someone has a history as a bad tenant, it’s likely that word will spread — which is standard practice in Mexico. People are often “exposed” on social media, especially in local Facebook groups, with the most common being those under the name Cabo Connections in its various versions.
23. Should I rent furnished or unfurnished?
This depends on the market you want to target:
• Furnished rentals tend to attract expats, travelers, and short-term or medium-term renters. Many foreigners moving to Cabo for work or an extended stay prefer not to hassle with buying furniture, so a turn-key furnished place is very appealing (and you can often charge a bit more for it).
• Unfurnished rentals appeal to locals and long-term residents. Many local families have their own furniture, or they plan to stay multiple years and want to make the place their own. Unfurnished places typically mean less wear-and-tear on your furniture (since there is none provided) and fewer items to maintain or potentially replace.
Consider also a semi-furnished approach: some landlords provide major appliances (fridge, stove, washer) and maybe wardrobes, but no furniture. This can broaden your potential tenant pool. Ultimately, choose based on demand in your area and how quickly you need to fill the property. (If your home is in a touristy area or a condo commonly rented to foreigners, furnished might be expected, whereas a house in a local neighborhood might do better unfurnished.)
24. How much notice is required for rent increases?
In Mexico, you generally cannot raise the rent until the lease term is over, unless the lease itself spells out a schedule or condition for increases. So during a fixed 12-month lease, the rent stays as agreed. If you want the ability to increase rent (for example, on a multi-year lease), it must be written into the contract (often tied to an inflation index or a fixed percentage per year). Once the lease term ends, you can propose a new rent for the renewal or next term. It’s courteous to give notice (30–60 days before lease end) of any increase so the tenant can plan or negotiate. For month-to-month arrangements, typically 30 days notice is standard for a change in terms, but get local legal advice for specific cases.
25. What taxes apply to rental income?
Rental income in Mexico is subject to income tax, and sometimes value-added tax, depending on the situation:
• ISR (Income Tax): As a landlord earning income, you should report your rental income and pay income tax (Impuesto Sobre la Renta). Many small landlords opt for the RESICO regime (Régimen Simplificado de Confianza) or other applicable tax regimes that offer simplified reporting and lower rates up to certain limits. An accountant can help determine the best approach for your case.
• IVA (Value Added Tax): Long-term residential rentals are generally exempt from IVA if the property is rented solely as a dwelling (especially unfurnished). However, if you rent the property furnished or provide additional services (cleaning, utilities included, etc.), or if you’re renting to a business, IVA might apply. In practice, many landlords renting to individuals for residential use do not charge IVA. But if you issue official invoices (facturas) to your tenant (common if the tenant is a company or requests a tax-deductible factura), you may need to add 16% IVA to the rent. It’s best to consult a local accountant so you comply with Mexican tax laws while renting out your property.
26. Do I have to give invoices (facturas) for rent?
Only if you are a registered taxpayer renting out the property and the tenant requests it (or if by agreement). Private landlords often rent informally without issuing facturas. But if your tenant is a business, or an expat who needs proof of rent for visa or tax purposes, they might ask for an official invoice each month. To provide a factura, you as a landlord need to be registered with SAT (the tax authority) and report the income (paying the taxes as mentioned above). If you do issue facturas, remember to include IVA if applicable. In summary: you don’t have to unless it’s been agreed or requested, but you should be upfront about this during lease negotiations. Tenants who don’t need it won’t mind either way, and those who do need it will specifically ask.
27. Can I require rent in USD?
Yes, you can require that rent be paid in U.S. dollars (USD) — just make sure the lease clearly states that rent is X amount in USD. Under Mexican law, if a contract doesn’t specify a currency, payments are assumed to be in pesos, so it’s crucial to put the currency in writing. Many Cabo landlords who target expats list their rents in USD and have no issue. Do note: if the lease is in USD, fluctuations in exchange rate won’t affect the amount owed (the tenant bears the currency exchange cost when converting their money to USD, or vice versa for a local paying in pesos at the day’s rate). As a courtesy, some landlords will accept the peso equivalent at the current exchange rate, but legally if the lease says USD, it’s USD. Clear communication here will prevent any confusion each month.
28. How do I handle HOA rule violations by the tenant?
If your rental is part of a condo or homeowners association (HOA) with its own rules (like quiet hours, trash disposal rules, pool usage, etc.), make sure those rules are attached to the lease or explicitly referenced. The lease should state that violating HOA rules is considered a breach of the lease. For serious or repeated violations (for example, multiple noise complaints), you could have a clause that allows you to terminate the lease or not renew it. Importantly, talk with your tenant at the first sign of issues — sometimes they may not be aware of a rule. But having that clause gives you leverage if a tenant consistently disregards community rules and causes problems. Always document any warnings given. Ultimately, including HOA compliance in the contract helps protect you as the owner, since HOAs can fine you (the owner) for your tenant’s misbehavior.
29. Can I require a U.S. bank deposit for rent?
Yes, if that’s what you prefer. Some American or Canadian landlords who live abroad ask tenants to deposit rent into a U.S. (or foreign) bank account. This is perfectly fine as long as it’s spelled out in the lease agreement. However, keep in mind that this might be inconvenient for Mexican tenants who don’t have easy access to international transfers. To attract local renters, it’s usually easier to maintain a Mexican bank account for rent or accept cash/peso deposits locally. One compromise is to allow either: for instance, state in the lease that rent can be paid to XYZ Bank (USA) or a Mexican account. The bottom line is you can choose the payment method, but be reasonable if you want a larger pool of potential tenants. Many landlords in Cabo who are abroad use property managers or services that collect rent locally, then forward it to them.
Seasonal, Market, and Practical Questions
30. How do seasonal rental prices work?
Cabo’s rental market has high and low seasons. Winter (roughly November through April) is high season, when many snowbirds and seasonal visitors arrive – demand goes up, and so do prices. Summer (May through October) is low season; it’s hotter and more humid, and there are fewer tourists, so rents can be lower or more negotiable. For example, a condo that rents for $1,500 USD per month in high season might go for $1,100 in the off-season. If you’re a local on a long-term lease, you usually lock in one rate and are not affected by seasonal changes. Seasonal pricing mostly affects short-term rentals or flexible arrangements. Landlords sometimes prefer a long-term tenant at a stable rate to avoid vacancy in low season. As a tenant, if you have flexibility, you might score a better deal by signing a lease in the summer off-season before the winter rush.
31. What’s the process for returning a deposit?
Returning a deposit should be a straightforward process if expectations were clear from the start. Here’s how it generally works in Cabo:
• Move-out inspection: When the lease ends (or you move out), the landlord inspects the property, ideally with you present. Together, you compare the property’s condition against the move-in inventory/condition report.
• Deductions (if any): The landlord can deduct money from the security deposit for any repairs needed beyond normal wear and tear, or for any unpaid obligations (like last utility bills, or if you accidentally broke a window, etc.). These should be itemized. You should not be charged for things that were already worn or broken when you moved in (hence the importance of documenting initial condition).
• Return balance: After tallying any permitted deductions, the landlord returns the remaining deposit money to the tenant. The timeline for this can be specified in the lease — commonly within 15 to 30 days after move-out. It can be returned via bank transfer or cash, as agreed.
In practice, to avoid misunderstandings, many tenants in Cabo will ask for a joint walkthrough a week or two before move-out to identify any issues they can fix (like painting over scuff marks or doing a deep clean) so the deposit can be returned in full. Landlords appreciate this too, as it streamlines turnover. Always get a written acknowledgment of any deposit return and deductions for both parties’ records.
32. What’s the penalty for late rent?
Late payment penalties are legal in Mexico as long as they’re reasonable and agreed upon in the lease. A typical late fee in Cabo might be around 2% to 5% of the monthly rent if you’re, say, more than 5 days late. Some leases specify a flat fee (e.g., 200 pesos per day late) or a percentage after a certain grace period. The key is that it must be stated in the contract to be enforceable. If your lease doesn’t mention a late fee, the landlord can’t arbitrarily slap one on. If you know you’re going to be late due to an emergency, it’s always best to communicate with your landlord — sometimes they might waive or reduce the fee if you’ve been a good tenant. Landlords, keep late fees reasonable; the goal is to encourage timely payment, not to gouge a tenant in hardship.
33. Can I refuse pets?
Landlords: Yes, you are allowed to have a no-pets policy for your property. If you don’t want tenants with pets, state it clearly in your listing and lease (and likewise, if you’ll consider pets, make sure the lease outlines any pet conditions or extra deposit). If you do allow pets, it’s common to include a pet deposit or cleaning fee, and rules such as no pets on the furniture or responsibility for any pet damage.
Tenants: If you have a pet, always disclose it and get permission in writing. There are plenty of pet-friendly rentals in Cabo, but also many that prohibit pets due to HOA rules or owner preference. Never try to sneak in a pet, as that could be grounds for eviction if your lease forbids it.
34. What is normal wear and tear?
Normal wear and tear refers to the minor, expected deterioration of a property over time. For example, paint might naturally get a bit scuffed or faded after a year, or the finish on a frequently used countertop might be a little worn. Small nail holes from hanging pictures, a few scratches on a hardwood floor, or lightly worn carpet in high-traffic areas are usually considered normal wear and tear. It does not include serious damage like large holes in the wall, broken windows, a missing appliance, or stains and filth beyond what a routine cleaning would fix. Why it matters: a landlord cannot charge a tenant’s deposit for normal wear and tear, only for damage or excessive cleaning beyond what’s normal. To avoid disputes, it helps if both parties have the same understanding and maybe even document examples in the lease or during the walkthrough.
35. Can I pay several months in advance?
Tenants: Yes, paying rent several months in advance is often welcomed by landlords in Cabo. It’s pretty common for expats who lack a local rental history or credit score to offer 3, 6, or even 12 months of rent upfront to secure a place. This can give the landlord extra confidence that you’re committed and financially prepared. Just make sure that any upfront payment is clearly noted in the lease (so it’s not mistakenly treated as a deposit) and that you still get receipts or confirmation for those months paid.
Landlords: If a tenant offers prepaid rent, ensure you still fulfill all obligations (maintenance, etc.) during that period, and consider how you’ll handle refunds if the tenant needs to leave early for some reason. Generally, though, advance rent can be a win-win: the tenant might negotiate a slight discount for lump-sum payment, and the landlord gets cash in hand and peace of mind.
36. What happens if utilities are in the landlord’s name?
Sometimes a utility account (water, electricity, internet) will stay in the landlord’s name, especially if it’s simpler than transferring for a shorter tenancy. In this case, the lease should spell out how the tenant will pay for those services. Common arrangements include:
• The landlord keeps the utilities in their name and bills the tenant each month or bimonthly when the bill comes. The tenant reimburses the landlord (make sure you see a copy of the bill).
• A flat fee for utilities is added to the rent. For example, some landlords might say, “rent is $20,000 MXN including utilities up to a cap” – anything over a certain usage, the tenant pays extra.
• Transfer later: Occasionally for long-term leases, the landlord might ask the tenant to eventually transfer services into their own name (for electricity, this might require a deposit with CFE). But water is often better left in the owner’s name to avoid complications with unpaid balances, etc.
Regardless of the method, the lease agreement should clearly outline who is responsible for what, and how utility payments are handled. Tenants, make sure you clarify this to avoid double-paying or unexpected cut-offs. Landlords, remember to take final meter readings at move-in and move-out if utilities remain in your name, so bills can be fairly divided.
37. Do leases automatically renew?
In Cabo (and Mexico generally), leases do not automatically renew unless a renewal or extension clause is written into the contract. When a fixed-term lease ends, the tenant and landlord need to either sign a renewal/extension or a new contract, or the tenant should move out. Some contracts have a clause that they convert to month-to-month (informally called “tácita reconducción”) if neither party gives notice by the end date. But you should never assume that’s the case. To stay on the safe side: if you’re a tenant and want to continue after the lease end, approach your landlord a couple of months before expiration to discuss renewing or extending. If you’re a landlord and you don’t plan to renew, it’s courteous (and sometimes legally required) to give advance written notice to the tenant before the lease ends, so they can arrange to move.
38. Can landlords do inspections during the lease?
Yes, landlords are allowed to inspect the property during a tenancy, but with proper notice and at reasonable times. A common approach is to give 24 hours notice to the tenant for any inspection or maintenance visit, and to schedule it during daytime hours. The reason could be a routine check (some do it every 3 or 6 months), or to show the home to prospective new tenants or buyers, or to perform maintenance. These rights should be mentioned in the lease to avoid confusion. Tenants have the right to quiet enjoyment of the property, so a landlord can’t drop in unannounced except for emergencies. Clear communication is key — most tenants will cooperate with inspections if they’re not too frequent and they have advance warning. As a landlord, it’s good practice to be present for things like annual AC servicing, plumbing checks, etc., but always respect the tenant’s time and privacy.
39. Is it better to rent through a licensed agent?
Using a licensed real estate agent (or property management company) can be very helpful, especially if you’re not experienced with the Cabo rental market.
For landlords, an agent can handle marketing the property, screening tenants, drafting leases, and even managing the property day-to-day. They understand local laws and common practices, which can prevent a lot of headaches.
For tenants, an agent can guide you to the right neighborhoods, help ensure the lease is fair, and assist with any language barriers (most agents in Cabo are bilingual). Agents also often know the latest market prices, so you’re less likely to overpay or undersell.
The downside for landlords, of course, is cost: agents often charge one month’s rent for finding a tenant. For tenants, however, using a real estate agent to find a home is usually free, making it an attractive option. If you decide to go without an agent, make sure to do thorough research. Overall, working with a reputable, licensed agent is generally a smart move in Cabo’s rental market.
40. How can I avoid rental scams in Cabo?
To avoid scams, always verify that the person renting the property is the legitimate owner or has legal authority to lease it. Ask to see proof of ownership (property title) and official ID, and make sure the names match. Never send money without a signed lease, and avoid paying in full before you have access to the property. Be cautious with deals that seem “too good to be true” — especially if the price is far below market value. Use a licensed real estate agent or reputable property management company when possible, and check references or reviews. When renting remotely, request a live video tour and cross-check the property’s details online to ensure it actually exists and matches the listing.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a local renting to another Mexican family or an expat finding your first home in Los Cabos, the formula for a safe, stress-free rental experience is the same:
✔ Always use a written lease (preferably bilingual in Spanish and English). Verbal agreements or handshake deals can easily lead to misunderstandings — get everything in writing.
✔ Keep a signed inventory with photos of the property’s condition and contents. This protects both tenant and landlord when it comes to security deposit refunds and avoiding disputes over damages.
✔ Know the legal requirements in Baja California Sur. A little time spent understanding your rights and obligations (from eviction processes to tax rules) can save you a lot of trouble later. When in doubt, consult a local expert or legal advisor.
By following these guidelines and being clear in communication, you’ll find that renting in Cabo can be a smooth and rewarding experience for everyone involved. Enjoy the sunshine, the sea, and your new home in Cabo!
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📌 Related reads:
• Understanding Lease Agreements in Cabo – What Tenants Must Check Before Signing
• Complete Landlord Guide to Renting in Cabo
• Legal Requirements for Renting a Property in Cabo (Explained Simply)
👉 Browse the latest long-term rentals in Cabo here.
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