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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

Acquiring real estate is a reason to celebrate, and being a responsible owner is even more so. But how can you be one? Start by being aware of the paperwork and expenses you need to ensure your purchase is legal.
Deed registration is one of the most crucial expenses when buying a house or apartment. If you’re considering taking the big step of investing in your assets, keep reading. Here we’ll tell you everything about deed registration, including how to calculate its cost.
What is deed registration and how much does it cost?

The deed is the document that legally recognizes you as the owner of the property you have acquired. Processing it is one of your obligations and rights as an owner, and to do it correctly you must go to a notary.
In Mexico, deed registration does not have a fixed cost, as its value depends on factors such as location, land use, and the value of the property. However, the cost ranges between 4% and 7% of the total value of the property, and also considers the following*:
- The notary’s fees, as they will be the professional who ensures the documentation is in order.
- Taxes. The most important is the Real Estate Acquisition Tax (SAI), which can cost up to 6.5% of the property.
- Registration with the Public Property Registry, which will be carried out by the notary and whose cost also varies depending on the city or municipality.
- Additional certificates and payments such as cadastral plans, land use certificates, among others.
To make this process as efficient as possible, you’ll need documents such as: the property title, valid official identification, purchase agreement, and property tax receipts.
Make wise decisions throughout the process

Having all your property documents in order will guarantee the legal certainty of your assets today and for years to come. Choose to protect your investment to avoid fraud and make future decisions easier, whether it’s inheriting or selling.
Start or continue your journey as a responsible owner by investing in the wisest option. Peregrina in Tulum is the right project for this. Its apartments filled with natural light are ideal for enjoying the Riviera Maya and renting them out when not in use.
Learn more about this great investment opportunity, such as its amenities and its location in Kaybé, a high-value residential complex in Tulum. Peregrina is a project by Grupo Emerita, and it’s perfect for maximizing your capital.
Source: *BBVA México
You might be interested: Peregrina, a real estate project within Kaybé


Closing: an essential step when buying a property

One of the most anticipated projects in Tulum, Parque del Jaguar, is about to open!*1 Discover here some updates about this great ecological-tourism park.
What will you find at Parque del Jaguar?

This project promises to be one of the largest and most important tourist attractions in Tulum. It will offer a wide variety of activities and services focused on exploring the Tulum archaeological zone, while promoting environmental preservation.
Visitors will enjoy a tour of the archaeological site, cliff hiking, and bike rides, among other activities*2. There will also be observation towers for birdwatching and taking in the Caribbean landscape from above, as well as a new cultural lighthouse.
Inside, there will be a museum, shops, handicrafts, and smoke kitchens for a traditional culinary experience. There are also plans to connect Parque del Jaguar to the Tren Maya route to provide transportation to and from the park*3.
High expectations for tourism and investment

Tourism sector workers have high expectations for Parque del Jaguar, as they are confident of reaching 100% activity during the holiday season*4. We are certain that the park's opening will also benefit locals and investors interested in the Riviera Maya.
With more direct connectivity to Tulum thanks to the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport and the Tren Maya, initiatives like Parque del Jaguar will attract even more tourists to the acclaimed Mexican Caribbean.
Take advantage of Kaybé's opportunities

The luxury residential complex, Kaybé, will be Parque del Jaguar's neighbor. This magnificent location will bring even more visibility to Kaybé and the projects within it. That's why this is the best time to invest in a lot or macrolot and make your real estate project a reality.
Kaybé on its own is a great investment, as it is surrounded by nature, luxury, and security. It is the only complex in Mexico with a multisensory park, and it also features a stunning 16-meter lookout tower where you can admire the natural beauty of the Caribbean.
Learn more about the lots and macrolots available in Kaybé, and invest in an area with high value and development potential.
Sources:
- El economista
- Gobierno de México
- Inmobiliare
- La Jornada Maya
You might be interested: The secure investment behind Kaybé in Tulum


Discover more about Jaguar Park, Tulum’s newest attraction.

Last year, the fashion world coined the concept of "quiet luxury" to describe one of today's most exclusive trends. This trend emerged as a response to the obsession with acquiring flashy garments stamped with luxury brand logos. In other words, quiet luxury aims to put a stop to the pretentiousness of "logomania."
Quiet luxury takes the path of minimalism, exclusivity, and expertise. Only those in the know can identify quiet luxury, as they focus on recognizing details such as manufacturing quality, timelessness, and the durability of a garment over the years.
So, how does this trend translate into interior design?
A new perspective on luxury

This trend found its way into interior design, and at its core, it shares the same preference for minimalist, discreet, and timeless pieces. When it comes to materials, raw and natural finishes are favored, while anything shiny or glossy is avoided at all costs.
Another value of quiet luxury is choosing sustainably made furniture that ensures longevity, so it's common to opt for items handcrafted by expert artisans.
At the same time, this is closely tied to a holistic and contemplative approach to life. Instant gratification is set aside, and there's an embrace of the sensitivity to appreciate the creative process and the artistic side of every element in the home.
Constelada, an elevated experience

There are places that radiate the elegance of quiet luxury, like Constelada, a development of 54 apartments in always magnificent Tulum.
Constelada's concept is inspired by the meeting of the magical and the unique in Tulum. Its privileged location in the new phase of Aldea Zamá, Selvazama, guarantees an unparalleled connection with nature, the sea, and the cosmos.
Here you'll find more than 10 amenities to help you find your center, such as a yoga area, pool bar, and terraces. The best part is that Constelada is divided into 6 types, from studios to 3-bedroom penthouses, so you can decide how to be part of the most captivating destination in the Mexican Caribbean.
Imagine your new space, and discover more about our exceptional investment opportunity in Tulum.
You might be interested: Grupo Emerita: a developer with experience


What is quiet luxury? Here’s how you can bring it into your home.

After Covid-19, society underwent changes. Some positive; for example, now we tend to wear masks when we have a cold to avoid infecting others, and also, there are more remote work opportunities. However, we also see negative changes.
Experts*1 state that, currently, society is going through a loneliness epidemic, which began with the development of technology and worsened as a result of the lockdown caused by Covid-19. This loneliness epidemic could lead to problems such as depression, anxiety, and higher risks of cardiovascular disease.
That’s why, today more than ever, it’s vital to nurture our relationships, and a positive action, like creating a community in a residential development, could be part of the solution.
What is the sense of belonging?

The sense of belonging is the feeling of being part of one or several groups or communities*2. Being aware of this concept is essential, as it could be the way to fight loneliness, since this sense positively impacts our interpersonal relationships, creating a safe space of trust, collaboration, and communication*3.
To solve this problem of loneliness, creating a community among neighbors is a good start. A residential development can bring together families who share similar lifestyles and interests. Why not take the initiative to introduce yourself to your neighbor? You might meet a great friend.
The importance of belonging to a group

Maintaining a good relationship with your neighbors will not only make your daily life more pleasant, it will also give you the certainty that you have a support network for times of emergency or crisis. Cultivating valuable and respectful relationships with others is a way to take care of our mental health.
Also, by living in a residential development, you can take advantage of the amenities to celebrate a birthday, or simply to enjoy a pleasant time with good company after a busy day.
Villas Kaybé, your dream life in Tulum

Amid the lush vegetation of the Kaybé residential complex, you’ll find the Villas Kaybé proposal. Its 2-level residences with luxury finishes are the ideal option to take your life to the paradisiacal and peaceful Tulum.
Discover the charms of this private community, and be amazed by its range of amenities and services focused on social interaction and exclusive living. The residences are delivered fully equipped.
Sources:
- BBC News
- Psicología y Mente
- Forbes
You might be interested in: Villas Kaybé, the new way to live in the paradise of Tulum


The importance of building a sense of community in residential developments

Considering a residential community as a new investment is one of the most viable options you could choose, as it brings benefits like a stronger sense of community and greater security. Usually, these communities include several amenities to offer added value.
An important and essential amenity in a residential community should be green areas. Specifically, opt for spaces like parks, where nature, entertainment, and physical activity come together.
Linear park, the lungs of the community

The main distinction of a linear park is that it is an elongated stretch of green areas. Its structure may vary, but the benefits of having one are the same:
- Its trees reduce the heat island effect and trap carbon, giving us fresh, clean air.
- It is a safe space for outdoor physical activity.
- It encourages socializing with friends and family, away from screens. This benefits mental health.
- It is a source of free entertainment with activities focused on exercising and spending time with loved ones.
Step into La Jungla at Tierra Madre

Tierra Madre is a private family community located in the tranquility of Playa del Carmen, away from the tourist hustle and bustle. What truly makes Tierra Madre special is its commitment to pedestrians, as the roads in this community were designed so that people can move around freely.
La Jungla is the most authentic area of Tierra Madre, as it is an impressive linear park with more than 12,600 m2 of space. It features over 10 amenities that you will discover as you walk through its grounds.
La Jungla is a space for the whole family, for young and old, and the only park of its kind in the entire Riviera Maya. Here you will find:
- Playgrounds
- Ball sport courts
- Yoga temple
- Picnic area
- Pet park
- Mini-golf course…
- And many more amenities.
Invest in your future at Tierra Madre

Do you want to vacation and walk among tropical trails? In addition to La Jungla, Tierra Madre has a clubhouse called El Santuario, where you can enjoy your days with friends and family.
Discover our selection of single-family lots and start your best investment in the paradise of the Mexican Caribbean.
You may also be interested in: Grupo Emerita: an experienced developer.

The importance of a linear park in a residential community

It is well known that investing in real estate is a great opportunity to build wealth and diversify your income. There is a lot of talk about how we can maximize our investment, however, little is said about the risks we are exposed to, such as falling victim to real estate fraud.
The Federal Consumer Protection Agency (Profeco) reported that, in 2022, real estate fraud was among the 10 most frequent complaints in Mexico, while the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI) estimated that every year, hundreds of millions of pesos are lost due to illegal actions in the real estate sector.*1
Here’s how to avoid becoming another victim:
Main warning signs

Attention! These are the most common signs to spot a possible scam:
- They advertise fake properties with images downloaded from the Internet.
- They do not offer purchase agreements.
- They ask for an advance payment to supposedly reserve the property.
- The developer and real estate agents are not registered with any regulatory authority.
There are more warning signs, such as not being able to provide complete information about the project, or promising investment returns that are too good to be true (if they promise you ROI over 20%, run!).
Signs your investment is safe

On the other hand, these are some signs that will give you confidence that you are leaving your investment in the hands of professionals:
- They have physical offices you can visit to meet the real estate advisors.
- They have a proven track record with completed projects and positive reviews from real clients.
- They are transparent about their projects regarding technical details or construction progress.
- They have the necessary accreditations and offer legal certainty.
Peregrina, a profitable and safe investment in Tulum

One of the most complete projects by Grupo Emerita, a developer with over 30 years of experience, is Peregrina. Located in the prestigious Kaybé residential complex, Peregrina features 3 levels of apartments starting at 43.82 m2, which are ideal to purchase and rent out when not in use.
Discover Peregrina’s 4th level, full of charming amenities, and also, take advantage of the attractive benefits available for a limited time to those who purchase an apartment in Peregrina! Start your path to paradise here.
Source 1: Hablemos de dinero.
You might be interested: Peregrina, a real estate project within Kaybé.


Watch out for these red flags when investing in real estate

We are about to finish the first quarter of the year, and this is the perfect time to refocus on the resolutions we set in January. Maybe we feel guilty that our goals have stalled, or even been completely forgotten.
Creating a new habit or starting a goal has no expiration date. You can still sign up for the gym, learn a new language, or start the habit of saving to achieve your dreams, like owning a home or land. If you’re interested in this last point, stay tuned! We’ll give you 3 creative ways to start saving.
52-Week Challenge

As the name suggests, this challenge lasts 52 weeks, and consists of saving an amount of money that increases each week. For example: the first week, $10; the second week, $20; and so on.
You’ll see many similar challenges, each with its own variations in time period and total amount to save. You can adapt to the one that best fits your own goals, or even create your own time and money margins.
Kakebo Method

This is a Japanese method that dates back to the early 20th century. Its name, “kakebo,” means “account book.” It consists of keeping a written record of our income, fixed and variable expenses, and organizing them into categories.
This method is about becoming aware of how we spend our money. We need to analyze and allocate spending and saving budgets more responsibly.
50/30/20 Rule

This rule has become popular for its effectiveness. Basically, it consists of allocating a certain percentage of your income to different categories:
- 50% goes to needs like rent, groceries, utilities, etc.
- 30% goes to wants like travel, hobbies, outings, etc.
- 20% goes to your savings goals.
Just like the 52-week challenge, this rule is a guideline you can adjust to your needs.
Achieve your goals with Grupo Emerita

We are a real estate developer with over 30 years of experience and more than 60 completed developments. Our projects are located in Tulum and Playa del Carmen, and whether you’re looking for an apartment, studio, villa, or land, we have something for you.
We invite you to learn more about the benefits of investing with Grupo Emerita!
You might be interested: “Grupo Emerita: una desarrolladora experiencias”


3 creative ways to save for your dream home

Between the sea and the archaeological zones of the Riviera Maya lie the cenotes: deep natural wells that have existed for at least hundreds of thousands of years. Cenotes are formed thanks to rain that washes away the limestone soil, creating an underground cave system*1. This process is slow and can take hundreds of years to form a cenote.
An easy way to know the age of a cenote is by its structure. If the cenote is completely exposed, it is very old, as its vault has collapsed due to precipitation; if it is covered by a dome, then it is younger*1. Today, these wells are a popular tourist attraction and a source of pride both locally and nationally, but what is their history?
In the Maya World: a meeting of life and death

The Mayan civilization gave great symbolism to cenotes. For them, they were the entrance to the underworld, and also a source of life, as cenotes were the setting for various religious rituals to invoke abundance. For example, the Maya performed rituals to ask for rain from the god Cháak, the Mayan god of water, during the dry season.
Evidence of Mayan rituals has been found at the bottom of cenotes, such as jewelry, ceramic and utensil remains, as well as animal bones, and even human remains belonging to human sacrifices*2.
In the Modern World: a reason to fall in love with the Riviera Maya

Today, cenotes are a subject of study for biologists, and also a very attractive tourist spot for those who want to take a dip. It is common to find fauna such as fish, crustaceans, and some types of eel, as well as impressive stalactites that take the breath away even from the bravest visitors.
Some cenotes you can visit in Tulum and Playa del Carmen are:
- Cenote Nohoch Nah Chich
- Cenote Dos Ojos
- Cenote Carwash
- Cenote Nicte-Ha
- Cenote Azul
- And many, many more!
Invest in paradise with Grupo Emerita

Grupo Emerita is a real estate developer with more than 30 years of experience and 67 completed developments. If you are interested in investing in a property or land in Playa del Carmen or Tulum, contact us and we will help you achieve your goals.
We have projects such as apartments, studios, and villas in the most exclusive areas of the Riviera Maya. Discover and fall in love with our variety.
Source:
1. National Geographic
2. Gobierno de Yucatán
You might be interested in: Grupo Emerita: a developer of experiences”


Cenotes: the mystical waters of the Riviera Maya

From the moment you acquire a property, you should already be considering how to maximize your investment. Currently, buying an apartment or studio to rent out is a growing trend due to its effectiveness and convenience. However, results don't just happen on their own.
To get the most out of your apartment, you need to make a good impression on your guests—but how do you achieve this? Below, we share what an exemplary host does before, during, and after a guest's reservation.
Set clear rules

The rules you choose to include should be aimed at maintaining the integrity of the unit and ensuring the safety of your guests. Mention check-in and check-out times, the maximum number of guests, and other house policies, such as whether it’s a smoke-free space, if parties or gatherings are allowed, among other points.
Make sure to set rules that are fair and firm, but not overly restrictive.
Deliver a clean and complete space

If you were your own guest, how would you like to be welcomed?
Make sure your guests arrive to a spotless space, and anticipate their needs. That means including personal items like towels and toilet paper. Ensure all appliances work, and get creative: offer something that sets your apartment apart from other vacation rentals, such as a tourist guide or complimentary treats.
Offer attentive communication

Beyond responding to messages or questions as quickly as possible, also listen actively to your guests’ needs. Offer reasonable flexibility to their requests, and respect their space and privacy.
Appreciate constructive criticism

While positive feedback is very useful for promoting your vacation rental, constructive criticism can be the guide to getting the most out of your unit. However, make sure you’re one step ahead of your guest. Give your property regular maintenance to guarantee the highest satisfaction for your guests.
Discover Nhoa Condos, your new opportunity in Tulum

Nhoa consists of 36 two-bedroom condos with an integrated Lock Off* system. These condos are located in Tulum, within the exclusive Aldea Zamá residential area.
What sets Nhoa apart, in addition to its amenities, is that some units feature a balcony, terrace, garden, or even a private pool. We invite you to learn more about this investment opportunity in Tulum!
*System for dividing rooms with a closed door.
You might be interested: Advantages of investing in properties near the beach


