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Tulum has been on every investor’s radar for the past decade. But with so many new developments launching every year, is pre-construction in Tulum still worth it? The short answer: yes - if you’re strategic.
Buying presale condos is no longer about just “getting in early.” The market has matured, competition is fiercer, and renters today expect quality, not just location. Let’s take a look at why pre-construction can still be a smart play in Tulum’s real estate market - and what you should watch out for.
What Is a Pre-Construction Condo in Tulum?
A presale condo in Tulum refers to a condo that is part of a development that hasn't been completed yet. Developers may offer units while construction is in progress, or even before it begins. In some cases, properties might be fully constructed but not sold yet, falling under the same presale category. Essentially, you're purchasing the unit before its completion, often at a discounted price.
Why People Still Invest in Presale in Tulum
1. Prices are still lower than ready units
While the days of ultra-cheap presales are gone, pre-construction prices are still 10–20% below delivery value in well-managed projects. For serious investors, that’s a built-in equity cushion.
At 525 Tulum, delivered in 2021, early buyers saw a 22% appreciation from presale to handover. With projects like Mayab Tulum, buyers today can expect similar long-term gains, though patience is key.
If your goal is a return on your investment, you’ll want to explore not just appreciation but also Tulum rental property opportunities. High occupancy rates during peak season still make rentals a strong complement to capital growth. For more, check our guide on short-term rentals in Tulum vs. long-term rentals.
2. Flexible payment methods vs. expensive mortgages
Financing real estate in Mexico remains limited and often costly for foreigners. Pre-construction solves that with developer financing: extended payment plans, often interest-free, spread across the build period.
At Mayab Tulum, buyers can spread payments over 48 months - a structure that’s often more accessible than a mortgage back home. This flexibility keeps presales attractive even as prices rise.
3. First pick of the best units
Competition in Tulum is intense, but presale still gives early buyers the advantage. Prime units with double-height ceilings, rooftop pools, or the best jungle views usually sell out before completion.
For anyone researching Tulum investment property options, presale is the only way to secure unique layouts or features before they disappear.
4. New units mean lower maintenance
Buying a brand-new condo in Tulum means reduced maintenance costs. Everything from furniture to electrical equipment, including refrigerators, stoves, washers, and dryers, is new. Plus, developers typically offer warranties on new equipment and appliances, which can cover potential hidden defects for up to a year.
5. Time to plan (and outpace competitors)
Buying pre-construction gives you breathing room to design, decorate, and set up a rental strategy while the unit is being built. This is especially important now, as renters compare dozens of listings side by side. Your condo needs to stand out.
Pro tip: focus on features travelers actually book for. Our checklist of essentials to focus on when buying a condo in Tulum is a good starting point.
The New Reality: What to Watch Out For
It’s not all upside. Tulum’s market has matured, and investors need to be savvy:
- Inventory is high. With so many projects, only well-located, well-designed developments perform strongly.
- Delivery delays happen. Pick developers with a track record of past projects in Tulum.
- Renters are picky. The days of “any condo rents well” are over. Location, amenities, and design matter more than ever.
That said, if you choose wisely, pre-construction remains one of the best ways to buy a condo in Tulum at today’s price and benefit from tomorrow’s demand.
Is Pre-Construction in Tulum Still Worth It?
Yes - but only if you invest with clear expectations. Tulum’s real estate market has shifted from fast gains to sustainable returns. Pre-construction is still attractive because of:
- Entry prices below ready-to-move units
- Developer financing that beats mortgages
- First pick of premium layouts
- Long-term appreciation in a world-renowned destination
For investors who want lifestyle benefits and solid returns, pre-construction in Tulum remains a smart move.
Want to go deeper? Explore our full guide on ways to achieve a high return on real estate investment in Tulum.
Feel free to browse our presale condos for sale in Tulum - we’ll be happy to guide you in finding a property that’s perfectly suited to your needs.
