Cost of Building vs Buying a Home in La Paz, BCS – What You Need to Know
Cost of Building vs Buying a Home in La Paz, Baja California Sur
Building a dream home in La Paz has long appealed to Americans and Canadians who want a personalized space overlooking the Sea of Cortez. But in today’s market, the reality of rising construction costs and long build times has changed the conversation. More and more buyers are discovering that purchasing a turnkey home can be not only easier, but also more affordable...if you're in the right place at the right time.
The Rising Cost of Construction
In 2025, the cost of building a high-quality home in La Paz with modern finishes, a detached casita, a pool, and rooftop terrace in the prestigious gated community of Villas del Centenario has climbed enough that the cost to build the house exceeds the cost to buy the same home that's been gently lived in for 1 to 2 years. Materials, labor, and demand for skilled builders have pushed prices higher than ever before. Imagine being able to buy a 2025 Lamborghini for $100,000 USD less than the 2026 model...this is similar to that situation.
The Time Commitment
Custom construction often takes between 12 and 18 months, and that does not include the design, permitting, and unexpected delays that can come with building in Mexico. For retirees ready to enjoy life now or investors eager to generate rental income, waiting this long can be a major drawback.
Why Buying may be the Smarter Choice
If you can find a turnkey home in Villas del Centenario that offers the same features buyers would pay $920,000 USD to build new—casita, heated, salt-water pool, rooftop, garage, and designer interiors—but at a fraction of the price... you can start enjoying the La Paz lifestyle immediately. You should move quickly.
Why Expats Love Villas del Centenario
Check out my favorite home in Villas del Centenario...and guess what?? It's AVAILABLE.
The Investment Edge
Buying also means avoiding the risks of construction while securing instant appreciation and rental potential. For Americans and Canadians relocating to La Paz, the numbers increasingly make sense: buying ready-to-enjoy real estate is may be the smart play.
