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Real Estate Market, Lifestyle and More in the Riviera Maya and Southeastern Mexico
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What is it like to live in Playa del Carmen?
Playa del Carmen is much more than a vacation destination. Those who choose to live here discover a vibrant city, with an active community, a deep connection to nature, and a pace of life very different from urban centers in the rest of the country.
Here are five experiences you can only enjoy if you make Playa del Carmen your home. We especially love the last one!
1. Connect with the jungle and the sea every day
Here, you don’t need to escape on weekends to reconnect: everything is just around the corner. Whether you’re running along nature trails, paddling at sunrise, or swimming in crystal-clear cenotes, nature becomes part of your daily routine.
Playa del Carmen is home to people from all over the world. This mix of cultures creates a diverse and dynamic community, where it’s common to make friends with neighbors from different countries. From local markets to cultural fairs, there are always spaces to share and collaborate.
3. Experience the Riviera at your own pace
Far from the tourist hustle, daily life here moves at a different pace. Free time, mindful enjoyment, and closeness to what matters are truly valued. Developments like Tierra Madre, designed to foster community, offer the perfect setting to create a home: green areas, functional amenities, security, and a location that connects you to everything important. A place where community isn’t just a concept—it’s a reality.
In Playa, everything invites you to slow down. Outdoor yoga classes, meditating by the sea, hidden cafés in the jungle to start your day in peace… Here, you breathe a different kind of life. One where physical and mental well-being are part of your daily routine, not a distant goal.
Here, you don’t just live—you build. Playa del Carmen is undergoing urban transformation, and its residents actively participate in its growth. Whether through entrepreneurship, investment, or creating community projects, it’s a city for active minds who want to make a mark.
You might be interested: How to live in Tierra Madre
5 experiences you’ll only have if you actually live in Playa del Carmen (beyond just being a tourist)
The path of real estate investment is full of important decisions, as what you choose will influence how your expectations for returns, appreciation, and lifestyle are met. Choosing the right property type for your real estate investment is key to achieving your goals.
The most common types are studios, apartments, and penthouses; all very different from each other. So, how do you choose the best one? In this article, we’ll help you decide.
Studio
Studios make the most of every square meter, as they are a single space that brings together daily essentials like a bed, kitchen, and desk. Only the bathroom is separated from the main area.
Because of their size, the initial investment is low, and maintenance is the simplest and least demanding. They are usually in a strategic location to attract travelers and thus generate steady income.
Apartment
Apartments have more variable sizes, as they can have 1 or 2 bedrooms, and are also equipped with a kitchen, living room, bathroom, and even a terrace. The initial investment is moderate, and this type of property usually has steady rental demand and solid appreciation.
Penthouse
Located at the top of residential complexes, penthouses are the epitome of luxury and exclusivity. They usually have several bedrooms, spacious areas, and large windows with privileged views. That said, the initial investment is high, but it’s a great property to rent in the luxury real estate market and thus maximize your investment.
We highly recommend certified real estate advice to make the best decision, as an advisor can guide you on factors such as the local market, profitability, or suggest the best way to diversify your portfolio.
What do these properties have in common?
While these three properties attract different investor profiles, they all share the fact that they are located in luxury developments like Constelada; the most original proposal in Tulum’s Selvazama, the sister development of the successful Aldea Zamá, which is located in an urbanized area with high tourist demand due to its proximity to main attractions.
In addition to offering a variety of property types, Constelada features luxury amenities such as a rooftop with pool, bar, yoga area, coworking, and gym. Thanks to its location, infrastructure, and architecture, Constelada is a safe bet for success.
We invite you to click on the following box to learn more about Constelada, and to get in touch with our expert advisors to find out which is your ideal investment in this thriving development in the Riviera Maya.
You may also be interested in: The benefits of investing in Tulum, a paradise of luxury and nature.
Studio, apartment, or penthouse—which is the best investment for me?
A real estate investment is one of the most valuable decisions we can make for our assets and our family's future. Whether it's a residential lot, house, or apartment, this investment can ensure generations of peace of mind and stability. That's why it's vital that our purchase is backed by the law.
In this article, we want to share how we have managed to establish ourselves as a real estate developer that not only stands out for the quality and innovation of its projects, but also for our legal protection and secure investments.
Three decades of passion for building
Our history and commitment began in Mérida, Yucatán, making us a 100% Mexican company. We are known for our forward-thinking vision and for setting the standard in new construction trends. Today, we have more than 20 projects in high-value areas such as Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and recently, Valladolid, Yucatán.
Throughout our history, we have built more than 373,985 m2 and 551 properties. These numbers continue to rise year after year, establishing us as one of the most prolific real estate companies in southeastern Mexico.
How do we guarantee legal certainty?
We are aware that the real estate sector is not exempt from fraud and scams, which is why we provide transparency from the very first moment in our sales and project delivery process through legal contracts. As our client, you can review our official documents to verify the legality of the project.
In addition to each development having a unique creative proposal, each one has specific licenses and personalized legal backing. Likewise, we ensure up-to-date regulatory compliance by actively participating with organizations such as the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI).
Invest with the legal certainty of Grupo Emerita
Now that you know us a little better, we would love to help you grow your assets with the right real estate investment.
We invite you to contact us to receive more information about our developments or our legal certainty. One of our expert advisors, who are a key part of our clients' satisfaction, will get in touch with you to answer all your questions.
You might be interested: Grupo Emerita: a developer with experience
Emerita Group: Over 30 Years of Legal Certainty in the Real Estate Sector
Aldea Zamá is one of the best-positioned residential communities in Tulum, and for the past couple of years, the continuation of its real estate success has been under development. This is Selvazama, the third phase of Aldea Zamá, featuring a privileged location and top-tier modern infrastructure.
In this article, we’ll tell you more about Selvazama and explain why your next real estate investment should be in this area of Tulum.
What is Selvazama?
Selvazama is a planned 500-acre community, home to luxury real estate developments and a vibrant community. More than just an exclusive area for investment and development, Selvazama’s plan also includes spaces dedicated to cultural, artistic, and holistic activities.
From its conception, Selvazama’s goal has been to be a luxury residential space that reflects the boho chic personality for which Tulum is world-renowned. For example, renowned projects like Papaya Playa and Azulik have already invested in Selvazama’s high-end proposal.
Selvazama’s main differentiator
Without a doubt, the location of this community is its strongest asset. Selvazama enjoys connectivity with Tulum’s main avenues, including Avenida Cobá, which leads to the hotel zone. It’s located in a high-demand tourist area, just minutes from Parque del Jaguar, which provides access to major tourist attractions such as:
- The Tulum archaeological site.
- The Museo de la Costa Oriental.
- El Faro viewpoint.
- Santa Fe Beach, Pescadores Beach, Maya Beach, and Mangle Beach.
Additionally, Selvazama features urbanized infrastructure such as paved roads, bike paths, water service, drainage, underground electricity, and fiber optics.
A vacation constellation awaits you in Selvazama
Constelada is a development of apartments and penthouses located in the heart of Selvazama. Each unit is fully equipped and has its own pool or jacuzzi, ideal for a luxury and relaxing experience. Constelada features an Astro Roof Top, a rooftop with amenities such as a pool with loungers, yoga area, and pool bar.
Other spaces in Constelada include the restaurant, gym, and coworking area. This project is your ideal investment to profit from high-profile vacation rentals and be part of Tulum’s most exclusive residential community.
We invite you to click on the box below to discover all the details about Constelada and get in touch to invest.
You might also be interested in: The benefits of investing in Tulum, a paradise of luxury and nature.
Why invest in Selvazama? The future of real estate in Tulum
Most recent publications
Real estate tourism is a practice that has gained momentum in recent years. This type of tourism involves visiting a destination with the purpose of buying or renting a property for investment or to obtain a second home for vacations. This practice has proven to be very successful and profitable in the Riviera Maya.
In this article, we will delve deeper into why the Riviera Maya has become the top destination for real estate tourism in recent years, and how to take advantage of it.
Mexico’s favorite vacation destination
The Riviera Maya is a complete vacation destination. Its calm, warm climate is ideal for its outstanding ecotourism offerings, and its cuisine also strengthens the destination. In addition, cities like Tulum and Playa del Carmen have modern infrastructure with hospitals, airports, train and bus stations, ideal for tourists.
The official figures don’t lie. The Mexican Caribbean closed 2024 as the preferred destination in Mexico for foreign tourists, receiving almost half a million visitors1. In terms of hotel occupancy, Playa del Carmen stood out at the beginning of 2025 with an impressive 95% hotel occupancy rate2.
These are very encouraging numbers for investors interested in taking advantage of tourism in the Riviera Maya through real estate investment.
Invest in the Riviera Maya with Grupo Emerita
With the recent tourism data in the Riviera Maya and its strong identity as a tourist hub, there’s no doubt that a real estate investment will provide long-term profitability. However, for this to happen, you need to invest with the right developer, like us, Grupo Emerita, as we have more than 30 years of experience.
We specialize in luxury real estate developments in Playa del Carmen and Tulum, located in the most strategic and privileged areas of each city. We offer different types of properties for every investment plan, such as studios and apartments with luxury amenities, as well as residential lots for building.
If you are looking for excellence and quality in construction in the Riviera Maya, we invite you to contact us for information about our projects and to provide you with further advice.
References:
- Por Esto!
- Reportur
You may be interested: Grupo Emerita: a developer with experience
The Riviera Maya: a hotspot for real estate investment tourism
Making your dream home a reality is an opportunity that everyone who gets it tries to make the most of. However, if we don't make the wisest decisions from the start, building our home can get out of hand.
In this article, we'll tell you how to save money when building your house, getting the best results in a reasonable timeframe.
Hire professionals in the field
Building the house you've always wanted requires a responsible team made up of an architect, a civil engineer, and builders. These people will create a safe structure with a proper design. Professional work from the start will help you avoid unexpected last-minute repair costs.
Invest in the foundation
It's essential to invest the necessary time and funds in building a foundation with strong materials like poured concrete or heavy-gauge steel. The same goes for electrical installations and plumbing. As with the previous point, if we invest in solid foundations from the beginning, this will save us from untimely repair expenses.
Consider durable and affordable materials
The most recommended materials are reliable and affordable bricks and concrete blocks. On one hand, bricks are fire-resistant and provide both sound and thermal insulation. On the other hand, concrete blocks are lightweight and very versatile.
Let's get to work!
You can save on labor by choosing some DIY projects for your home. For example: install your own shelves or curtain rods, paint some bedrooms, or assemble simple furniture.
Choose a residential lot in a modern development
Finally, you need the ideal space for your new home. The wisest choice is to invest in a residential lot within a modern development with amenities, roads, and services. A great option on the market is Tierra Madre in Playa del Carmen.
This private residential is perfect for families who enjoy outdoor activities. It features a large linear park and a clubhouse with more than 20 amenities. Plus, it's in one of the quietest areas of Playa del Carmen, close to universities, supermarkets, and turquoise sea beaches.
We invite you to learn more about the residential lots at Tierra Madre, an innovative development by Grupo Emerita in Playa del Carmen.
You might be interested: The importance of a linear park in a residential community.
How to save on the cost of building a house
Playa del Carmen is a place with an indescribable and unique essence. Maybe, without realizing it, it's the place you want to return to for every vacation. For some digital nomads, it might be the place that's hard to leave, or even business trips don't feel like work in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
If you've felt like you don't want to say goodbye to this wonderful city of turquoise beaches and cosmopolitan life, you don't have to. Building your own home and finding your community in Playa del Carmen is more than possible.
The best part about moving to Playa del Carmen
It's undeniable that Playa del Carmen has everything for an active and fun life: paradise beaches, luxury shopping malls, diverse entertainment, and an infrastructure that provides safety. However, the best part goes beyond the surface, and that's the warm Playa community.
This diverse community is made up of locals, people from all over Mexico, and foreigners like Argentinians, Venezuelans, Guatemalans, Cubans, and Americans. The Playa community is hardworking, open, helpful, and always willing to help and welcome those who also decided to start a new chapter in the Mexican Caribbean.
Where to live in Playa del Carmen?
If your plans are to settle permanently in Playa del Carmen, make sure to invest in the stability and security of a tangible asset. The best investment is in a private residential development, like Tierra Madre. This community's mission is to preserve and foster a supportive environment among its residents.
In Tierra Madre, you don't live behind walls. Its pedestrian design invites you to walk freely, and all the lots connect with La Jungla, the linear park with amenities for relaxing, exercising, and spending time with family and pets. The clubhouse, El Santuario, is another space for gathering, with more than 20 amenities like a movie theater, gym, and sports courts.
Discover the Tierra Madre community
Create a stable asset in Playa del Carmen by investing in a residential lot from 180 m2 up to 544 m2 in Tierra Madre. This development, located on Avenida Universidades, gives you peace and privacy, away from the tourist hustle and bustle.
We invite you to learn more about Tierra Madre if you're interested in living in Playa del Carmen and building your new dream home just the way you want it.
You might be interested: Live in Playa del Carmen, a paradise of culture, nature, and entertainment
Thinking about living in Playa del Carmen? Find out what the community is like.
The chicest destination in the Riviera Maya keeps making headlines. With a solid reputation as a wellness tourism hotspot, Tulum has grown stronger thanks to transportation advances like the Maya Train, its own international airport, and the opening of Parque del Jaguar and the Museo de la Costa Oriental.
We continue to witness the development of Tulum’s infrastructure and the growth of its tourism. We’ve gathered some facts that prove it.
Santa Fe, Maya, Pescadores, and Aventuras beaches were awarded an international recognition1 for their natural beauty. This distinction also rewards Tulum for its commitment to environmental sustainability and ecosystem conservation.
Tulum’s international airport received an exclusive private flight from London by Qatar Airways’ Qatar Exclusive service2. Such an operation reflects Tulum’s reputation as a world-class tourist destination and also contributes to economic development.
At the end of 2024, a 14% increase in the budget for infrastructure and public services improvements was announced3. This ambitious budget aims not only to improve locals’ quality of life, but also to prioritize Tulum’s comprehensive development.
A recent report showed4 the Spanish market’s interest in Tulum as a wellness travel destination for shared trips. In response, promotion in the Spanish market has been emphasized in the luxury and upper-middle segments.
Tulum is on the rise and has no plans to stop. This makes it the perfect time for real estate investment. Take advantage of the vacation rental business by investing in a luxury apartment or studio at Constelada, a modern development inside Aldea Zamá.
Maximize your earnings with rentals while your unit increases in value. The convenient location and top-notch amenities like a pool, yoga area, and gym make Constelada the ideal investment to attract wellness-seeking travelers.
We invite you to learn more about Constelada and consider one of its apartments or studios in Tulum as your investment in the Riviera Maya.
Sources:
- Reportur
- Galu Comunicación
- Cambio 22
- Reportur
You might be interested: The benefits of investing in Tulum, a paradise of luxury and nature.
4 news stories to consider before investing in real estate in Tulum
As every year, resolution lists take center stage. An essential goal that will bring you satisfaction and long-term gain is making a wise investment, and real estate is the right sector for it. A real estate investment brings high-value benefits such as financial stability, appreciation, and a solid estate.
Whether it’s your first real estate investment as a second home, or you’re looking to diversify, here you’ll find useful financial goals to help you achieve your purpose.
Get your personal finances in order
This is the step that will define everything. You need to analyze the current health of your finances. Review your income, fixed expenses, and pay off your consumer debts. Knowing your financial situation will help you know if you’re ready to invest, and will allow you to set a realistic budget.
Save for the property down payment
Prioritize saving for your investment’s down payment, which generally equals 10% to 20% of the property’s total value. The higher the down payment, the lower your monthly payments will be.
Get advice on related expenses
Investing in a property comes with a series of related expenses you should also consider. For example: deed registration, appraisal, notary fees, the Real Estate Acquisition Tax (SAI), plus everything needed to furnish it. Get advice on these expenses from a professional, and include them in your budget.
Invest in the right place with the right real estate agency
Protect all your effort and invest with an experienced and renowned real estate agency, like Grupo Emerita. With over 30 years in the business, at Grupo Emerita we offer apartments, studios, penthouses, residential lots, and more to invest in the highest-value locations in all of Mexico: Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
We stand out for our innovative and luxurious developments, where you can recover your investment through vacation rentals. We invite you to contact us for professional advice and to discover the properties that fit your budget.
Discover our flexible payment options and invest in our developments in the Riviera Maya. Achieve your goal of investing in your estate this 2025 with Grupo Emerita!
You might be interested: Advantages of investing in properties near the beach
Financial goals for 2025 to invest in a property
Playa del Carmen is a fascinating city that brings together the best of both worlds. On one hand, there’s the fun by the beach, and on the other, the warmth of everyday life found especially along Avenida Universidades. This promising developing area is the setting for Tierra Madre, a private residential community spanning 15.2 hectares.
If you want to know what makes this peaceful avenue in Playa del Carmen special, keep reading.
Why live on Avenida Universidades?
There’s more than one reason to invest in a home at this location in Playa del Carmen, and these are the most decisive ones:
Connectivity
From Av. Universidades, you’ll enjoy being close to the federal highway of Quintana Roo. That means you’ll have easy access to the rest of the Riviera Maya and its incredible attractions like cenotes, theme parks, archaeological sites, and more.
Close to supermarkets
Grocery shopping doesn’t have to be a journey. Here, you’ll have major supermarket chains just minutes away. Plus, the city has impressive shopping malls for all your retail needs.
Peaceful, family-friendly environment
Since this is a university area, you can be sure you’ll be away from large crowds of tourists and the city’s nightlife. This makes it ideal for family living.
Paradise beaches less than 1 hour away
If you live in Playa del Carmen, you absolutely have to take advantage of the Caribbean Sea. Your neighbors will be stunning spots like Playa Xcalacoco and Playa Punta Esmeralda, among others. Living close to the beach gives you fresher air, more relaxation, and quality outdoor time with the whole family.
Build your legacy at Tierra Madre
Create the happiest memories with your family at Tierra Madre, the residential community that will captivate you with its abundant nature and top-notch amenities. In its extensive linear park “La Jungla,” there’s something for every family member, as well as the wonderful clubhouse “El Santuario.”
Discover the coziest, most family-friendly side of Playa del Carmen at Tierra Madre. Make the decision to invest in a residential lot and build the dream home for your family in a development that gives you everything and more to create a solid legacy.
You might be interested: The importance of a linear park in a residential community
Reasons to live on Av. Universidades in Playa del Carmen
Smart homes are no longer exclusive to science fiction. Home automation consists of a set of automated technologies that improve quality of life at home. Many have already integrated it into their own spaces, and now, it is wise and even essential to update vacation rentals with this cutting-edge technology.
We will show you the main advantages of including home automation in your vacation rental. Keep reading to discover how to get your return on investment and attract more guests.
Energy savings
Home automation can help you reduce energy expenses, as it optimizes the efficient use of resources. By installing smart lighting and climate control, you can save up to 80% and 25%1, respectively. You can also automate irrigation, hot water usage, and outlets.
Increased security
Security systems are becoming more and more sophisticated. In this case, as a landlord, you can invest in electronic locks, motion sensors, alarm systems, and video surveillance. Usually, all these systems have a mobile app, which allows you to stay on top of everything happening in your property.
More comfort for guests
Integrating a virtual voice assistant is a must. Besides being useful for answering questions, playing music, or setting reminders, it also controls smart home devices. It can be linked to lamps, blinds, air purifiers, cleaning robots, and more.
Simplified management
With a Lock-Off system, which divides spaces behind closed doors, you make the most of your property. The Lock-Off allows you to rent out the bedrooms of your apartment separately, by blocking different entrances to restrict access to other areas of the apartment. Innovative projects, such as Constelada in Tulum, already include the Lock-Off.
Profit with a smart apartment in Tulum
In the competitive world of vacation rentals, you must offer the best experience to your guests. Home automation in a Constelada apartment, a charming residential cosmos in Tulum, will captivate anyone.
Constelada is located within Aldea Zamá, an exclusive community close to tourist attractions. Its location, amenities, and bohemian design offer comfort, luxury, and warmth. With 6 different layouts, you will find your perfect investment to earn income from vacation rentals in the Riviera Maya.
Choose Constelada as your next investment, and be amazed by the return on investment.
Source: 1. BBVA
You might be interested: Benefits of investing in Tulum, a paradise of luxury and nature.
Home automation: the technology that guarantees a return on investment
December brings one of the most joyful and heartwarming seasons, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with the fresh sea breeze of the Mexican Caribbean. Playa del Carmen radiates good energy all year round, but there’s something exquisitely indescribable about experiencing Christmas lights in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
In this article, you’ll get a glimpse of what the holiday season is like in Playa del Carmen. After reading, you won’t be able to resist experiencing it for yourself.
Peaceful mornings by the beach
There’s no greater privilege than a slow-paced morning. Take advantage of this festive season to start your mornings your way. We recommend getting active with a refreshing walk along the beach, followed by a hearty breakfast at a restaurant on Fifth Avenue. And why not? Treat yourself to a relaxing day at a beach club.
Three stops with Christmas spirit
Once night falls, all of Playa del Carmen lights up with holiday decorations. One of the season’s favorite spots is the La Quinta Alegría shopping mall, where you’ll find a tall, bright Christmas tree at the entrance. Inside, the décor will make you feel like the star of a Christmas story.
The Municipal Palace also gets into the holiday spirit. There you’ll find a Christmas market with local businesses and street food options to enjoy. And of course, the iconic Fifth Avenue is a must. Among twinkling lights and poinsettias, you can shop for your Christmas gifts.
Dive into the Playa lifestyle with a new home
Spending the holidays in Playa del Carmen is an experience like no other. Don’t limit yourself to a short visit to this cosmopolitan paradise—take the leap and invest in a second home in the heart of the Riviera Maya with Grupo Emerita.
We are a real estate developer with over 30 years of experience in the Riviera Maya. We know Playa del Carmen inside out, so our properties and residential lots have the best locations and amenities to make the most of the Playa lifestyle.
This Christmas, treat yourself to a valuable real estate investment in a one-of-a-kind city. If you’d like to know what we have available for you at Grupo Emerita, contact us and we’ll advise you promptly.
You might be interested: Grupo Emerita: a developer with experience.
What’s it like to experience Christmas in Playa del Carmen?
Tulum is one of the favorite places to visit in the Mexican Caribbean for its focus on wellness and connection with nature. The main landscapes in Tulum are the turquoise sea beaches, which are home to sea turtles and beautiful coral reefs, and the perfect setting for exciting water sports.
In this article, we’ll share our favorite beaches in Tulum and the surrounding area. Visit them and discover why the Caribbean Sea is so famous.
Playa Paraíso
The name says it all. Here, the sea comes in different shades of turquoise, there are tall palm trees, and the sand is white, fine, and soft. The perfect plan is to visit the archaeological site, and then ride your bike to this beautiful beach to cool off.
Playa Xcalcel
This peaceful beach is 22 minutes from downtown Tulum and is a sanctuary for sea turtles. Please be respectful of the environment during your visit! Also, very close by you’ll find the Xcacelito cenote. Take the opportunity to visit and swim in it.
Playa Akumal
The main attraction of this beach is snorkeling and having close encounters with sea turtles. Around it, you’ll find attractive beach clubs to spend the day.
Playa Xpu-Ha
As an excellent family option, visit Xpu-Ha beach. Access is through its restaurant and beach club, where you can make the most of a sunny day with delicious food and a lively atmosphere.
The successful vacation business in Tulum
Visiting a paradisiacal beach in Tulum is just one of the many experiences this destination offers. Take advantage of Tulum’s ongoing trend by investing in a studio or apartment at Constelada, a luxury development located in Aldea Zamá, an exclusive area close to the main beaches and cenotes.
At Constelada you’ll find 6 types of apartments, luxury amenities and services such as a yoga area, gym, co-working space, restaurant, and pool bar. By investing in your unit, you’ll get a vacation second home and the opportunity to earn income through vacation rentals.
We invite you to discover more about Constelada, the development with the most authentic Tulum vibes.
You might be interested: The benefits of investing in Tulum, a paradise of luxury and nature.