Pre-Sale Condos: How the Process Works

Buying a condo in pre-sale means purchasing it before or during its construction, directly from the developer, usually at a price below its delivery value and with staged payments as construction progresses. In Playa del Carmen it is one of the most common ways to invest in real estate. This guide explains how the process works step by step, its advantages and risks, and how it applies to Bakabá, our development in pre-sale in Playacar, with condos from $5,424,000 MXN.

What is a condo pre-sale?

Pre-sale is the stage in which a developer offers its condos before construction is finished —and often before it begins—. The buyer chooses a unit based on floor plans, renders and specifications, and reserves it with an initial payment; the rest is paid as construction advances, with a final balance due on delivery.

For the developer, pre-sales help finance construction. For the buyer, they bring two core benefits: a price typically below the delivery value, and the chance to choose from the entire inventory —the best locations, orientations and layouts are usually the first to sell out—.

In high-demand destinations like Playa del Carmen, pre-sales also open the door to consolidated areas such as Playacar Fase II, where available land is scarce and much of the new product sells before completion.

How does the pre-sale buying process work, step by step?

Although every development sets its own terms, the pre-sale process in Mexico usually follows these steps:

1. Research and choose the development

Before reserving, research the developer: track record, delivered projects and who backs the project. At Bakabá, for example, the development is backed by 2 major real estate brands: JLL and Dark Arquitectos.

2. Choose a typology and unit

With floor plans and renders in hand, choose the typology that fits your goal —personal use, vacation rental or long-term investment— and the specific unit: floor, orientation and location within the masterplan. Bakabá has 9 typologies from 1 to 3 bedrooms in three formats: Garden (with private garden and pool), Middle Floor and Pent House (with private rooftop and jacuzzi). You can compare them on the typologies page.

3. Reservation

The reservation ("apartado") is an initial payment that takes the unit off the market while the contract is signed. Always ask for the amount, the period it covers and the refund conditions of the development you choose. [TO-CONFIRM: Bakabá's reservation amount and conditions.]

4. Promise-to-purchase agreement

This is the central document of a pre-sale: it defines the unit, the total price, the payment schedule, estimated delivery dates, delay penalties and cancellation terms. Review it carefully —ideally with independent legal advice— before signing.

5. Payments during construction

In most pre-sales, the price is covered in three stages: the reservation or down payment, monthly or milestone-based payments, and a final balance on delivery. Percentages and timelines vary from project to project: [TO-CONFIRM: Bakabá's specific payment structure]. Ask about our financing plans.

6. Delivery and title transfer

Once construction is complete, the developer delivers the unit on the agreed terms and the deed is signed before a notary, at which point the property is formally in your name. Bakabá's delivery date will be confirmed with the client: [TO-CONFIRM: Bakabá delivery date]. General advice: always verify in the contract what happens if delivery is delayed.

What are the advantages of buying in pre-sale?

• Pre-sale pricing. Buying before delivery usually means a price below the finished condo's value; the difference is the appreciation you gain during construction.
• Staged payments. Instead of a single outlay, payment is spread across construction, making financial planning easier.
• Best inventory selection. Buyers in the early stages choose from every location, floor and orientation.
• Brand-new product. You receive a move-in-ready condo with new finishes and installations, and recently built amenities.

What risks does a pre-sale carry and how can you reduce them?

Pre-sales are a common, legitimate practice, but buy with criteria:

• Verify the developer and its partners. Research previously delivered projects and who markets and designs the development.
• Read the full contract. Price, payment schedule, penalties and delivery date must be in writing.
• Confirm the property regime. Ask whether the land is free of liens and before which notary the deed will be signed.
• Understand the cancellation terms. Both yours and the developer's, and what happens to your payments in each scenario.
• Get your questions answered before signing. You can start with our frequently asked questions and bring your remaining doubts to the sales visit.

What is the Bakabá pre-sale like in Playacar Fase II?

Bakabá is a pre-sale condo development on Av. Paseo Xaman-Ha, in Playacar Fase II, Playa del Carmen. Some verified project facts:

• 9 typologies from 1 to 3 bedrooms, in Garden, Middle Floor and Pent House formats.
• A 69,700 m² site with 40,000 m² of preserved green areas.
• Amenities including pools and sun decks, padel and pickleball courts, a gym, yoga room, wellness space, restaurant, café-deli, business center and an events hall with a garden for 100 people.
• Prices from $5,424,000 MXN.
• Backed by 2 major real estate brands: JLL and Dark Arquitectos.

Payment plans are designed to follow construction progress. Ask about our financing plans. For current availability, reservations and specific terms, book a visit with an advisor —in person or by video call—.

Bakabá pre-sale key facts

• What it is: condo pre-sale in Playacar Fase II, Playa del Carmen.
• Typologies: 9, from 1 to 3 bedrooms (Garden, Middle Floor, Pent House).
• Site: 69,700 m²; 40,000 m² of green areas.
• Price: from $5,424,000 MXN.
• Backing: 2 major real estate brands (JLL and Dark Arquitectos).
• Delivery date: [TO-CONFIRM].

Frequently asked questions about condo pre-sales

Is buying in pre-sale safe?

Yes, provided you verify the developer, read the full promise-to-purchase agreement and confirm the project has its permits and property regime in order. Independent legal advice is recommended for any real estate purchase.

How much is the down payment in a pre-sale?

Down-payment percentages and payment structures vary from one development to another. At Bakabá, ask about our financing plans: an advisor will walk you through the current options.

When are pre-sale condos delivered?

Each project sets its own construction and delivery calendar, which must be specified in the contract. Bakabá's delivery date is to be confirmed: [TO-CONFIRM].

Can I sell or rent my condo after delivery?

Generally, once the deed is signed the property is yours and you can sell or rent it according to the condominium's rules. Bakabá's proximity to Fifth Avenue and the Cozumel ferry supports rental demand; check the specific operating rules with your advisor.

How do I start the process at Bakabá?

The first step is simple: contact an advisor to learn about availability, choose a typology and clear up questions about reservations, payments and financing. You can also browse the typologies and the FAQ first.