How is the TULUM Real Estate Market in 2026

The Tulum real estate market is experiencing an adjustment phase after the pandemic boom, with a significant drop in new home sales (between 35% and 45%), an oversupply of properties in 2025, and an increase in resale value. This may not be encouraging news for some... however, this opens a great door of opportunity for others, and now I'll explain why...

The factors contributing to this situation are the lack of public services, sargassum, few low-cost public transportation options, a saturation of the vacation rental market, and lower demand from foreign investors.

Although capital gains continue to exist, at between 12 and 15% annually, it has become more important to conduct rigorous due diligence to avoid disappointment and secure properties with legal clarity and access to infrastructure.

It's worth mentioning that this adjustment also occurred years ago in Cancun and Playa del Carmen, and they are now very stable destinations.

1. Slowdown and Adjustment:

Drop in Sales: There has been a notable decline in new home sales since 2023, with figures ranging between 35% and 45%.

Market Contraction: The real estate boom experienced during the pandemic, driven by demand from foreign investors, has contracted, pushing prices down.

Sargassum: Tulum needs a plan to combat this phenomenon with improved cleaning of its jungle, beaches, and sargassum nets, as Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen have done.

More access to the beach and an internal transportation system accessible to all.

3. Trends and Opportunities:

Today, Tulum is a buyers' market. Property prices have dropped, opening up a range of opportunities for buyers who aren't interested in vacation rentals due to the wear and tear they entail and prefer to keep their property intact. This is an opportunity for those looking to move to Tulum, own a vacation home, or rent their property long-term. Those looking for a beach property at a fair price, with a unique and sustainable design in a location surrounded by nature and close to the beach, such as this 7-bedroom duplex villa with 2 pools and two cones for only $649,000. I'll leave the link below.

Focus on Sustainability: Sustainable and eco-friendly developments continue to be an important and attractive trend for buyers and tourists, especially those with an environmental conscience. Projects that integrate solar panels, local materials, and preserve green areas add value.

Developing Infrastructure: Constant infrastructure improvements, new access roads and paved roads, the construction of the Tulum International Airport, and the integration of the Mayan Train continue to slowly but steadily boost tourism and the local economy, which in turn strengthens the attractiveness of long-term investment.

Interest from Foreign Investors: Interest from buyers in the United States, Canada, and Europe remains high, boosting the supply of exclusive developments for the international market.

Although there has been a decrease in vacation rentals for small apartments, demand for long-term rentals of 6-12 months is increasing.

Outlook

Market Maturity: The market is evolving from a speculative model to a more solid and mature one.

Curbing Urban Expansion: Reducing investment could be beneficial for the preservation of the Mayan rainforest.

Importance of Regulation: Coordination between the public and private sectors is needed to establish effective regulations, plan development, and meet the needs of the destination.

In summary:

Although the Tulum real estate market is in an adjustment phase and experiencing a slowdown in sales, it is still considered a destination with investment potential due to its surroundings and tourist popularity. However, investors are advised to exercise caution, carefully analyze market conditions, and seek professional advice before making a purchase.

Although the Tulum real estate

 market has experienced a slowdown in sales and a period of adjustment, most analyses and projections point to a possible recovery and sustained growth in the medium and long term. The current situation is viewed as a correction phase following the pandemic boom, rather than a complete collapse.

Several key factors suggest that the market has the resilience and potential to recover: a recovery of the Tulum real estate market is not only possible, but highly likely, especially as infrastructure projects are completed and the market adjusts to a new, more mature phase. However, it will not be an uncontrolled return to the pandemic boom. Instead, a more cautious and strategic recovery is expected, driven by quality, sustainability, and differentiation.