Notes from the site, the studio and the permit office.
What we learn building in the Riviera Maya — materials that survive the salt and the heat, what the paperwork actually asks for, and how projects really go.
Why exactly do Phase I foundations cost 25–35% more than Phase II?
Phase I foundation cost in Playacar runs 25–35% above Phase IIbecause the tidal water table demands deeper footings, more rebar, and often piles.
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Can Americans and Canadians Build a House in Mexico? (Complete 2026 Guide)
Learn whether Americans and Canadians can build a house in Mexico, including fideicomiso rules, land ownership, construction permits, costs, and the building process.
· Read →Why do older Playacar homes often need more than a cosmetic renovation?
Older Playacar homes need renovation beyond paint. Most predatecurrent hurricane glazing standards, and upgrading the envelope is the real value.
· Read →What happens if my renovation permit expires before construction is finished?
An expired renovation permit isn't a restart. Solidaridad'sModalidad de Prórroga extends it without forcing a full new permit submission. (138chars
· Read →What permit do I need to add a second story to my Playacar home?
A second story permit in Playacar is filed as Ampliación y/oModificación and needs a full structural engineering package before work can begin.
· Read →Do I need HOA approval to renovate my home in Playacar?
Playacar HOA approval for renovation is required for anythingvisible from outside: beach, golf course or street. Interior work still gets confirmed.
· Read →Playacar Phase I beachfront vs. Phase II golf-course — what actually changes?
Playacar Phase I vs Phase II: soil, foundation cost, build time andHOA focus all differ. Here's what each phase really means for your project.
· Read →Why does Playacar cost more to build in than the rest of Playa del Carmen?
Playacar costs more to build in because of HOA design standards,larger lots, and Phase I's sandy, high-water-table soil driving up foundation work.
· Read →Can solar panels actually eliminate my electricity bill?
Solar can eliminate most of your electricity bill, but only if thesystem is sized to your real consumption instead of a generic panel-count estimate
· Read →Can water pressure actually be too high, not just too low?
Water pressure too high is a real risk, not a luxury problem. Itdamages pipes and fixtures, which is why regulators belong in every system here.
· Read →What are the actual components of a properly designed water system here?
The home water system components that matter here: cistern,pressure pump, regulators and a plumbing layout designed for real simultaneoususage.
· Read →How does net metering actually work in Mexico?
Net metering in Mexico credits your excess solar productionagainst your consumption. You don't get paid cash, you get a smaller electricity bill.
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