Infonavit Advises on Key Checks Before Buying a Home
Buying a home is a significant, long-term financial commitment. Therefore, making an informed decision is crucial. The Instituto del Fondo Nacional de la Vivienda para los Trabajadores (Infonavit) is currently emphasizing the importance of conducting thorough checks before finalizing a purchase, particularly regarding new developments. According to Diyeth Arochi (2025), writing for El Imparcial, a growing number of developers are building residential complexes to meet diverse needs, increasing housing options for potential buyers.
Beware of the Allure of Newness
While the excitement of owning a brand-new property with modern amenities can be tempting, Infonavit advises buyers to look beyond the surface. «Do not be carried away by the illusion of a new home or all the amenities and services that some developments offer,» they caution. Instead, focus on verifying the developer's track record and the quality of their previous projects.
Checking the Developer's Background
One crucial step is researching the developer's history. Infonavit recommends asking about other properties the developer has built. Furthermore, prospective buyers should check with the Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor (Profeco) to see if any complaints or claims have been filed against the developer and how those issues were resolved. This information provides valuable insight into the developer's reliability and commitment to quality.
Essential Aspects to Verify Before Purchase
According to Infonavit, thorough inspections are essential to ensure the quality of the property being acquired. These inspections are a good starting point to determine if the house meets acceptable standards. However, some issues, known as hidden defects (vicios ocultos), may not be immediately apparent. These could include cracked walls or problems with electrical and gas installations.
The Protection of the Quality Insurance
To address these hidden defects, Infonavit offers a Quality Insurance (Seguro de Calidad). This insurance, paid for by the developer, covers damages that arise after the property is handed over to the buyer, specifically those stemming from construction flaws. «The policy of this insurance has no cost, nor deductible,» Infonavit explains, clarifying that it applies only to traditional loans for new homes and not to co-financed credits or used properties.
Coverage Period for Different Types of Damages
The Quality Insurance covers potential damages for varying periods. Damages to plumbing and electrical systems resulting from construction defects or substandard materials are typically covered. This protection provides homeowners with peace of mind, knowing that they are not solely responsible for addressing hidden construction flaws that emerge after the purchase.
Benefits of the Quality Insurance
Here are some benefits about the Quality Insurance:
- Financial Protection: The insurance covers the cost of repairing hidden defects, preventing unexpected expenses for the homeowner.
- Peace of Mind: Homeowners can rest assured that they are protected against construction flaws that may not be immediately apparent.
- Developer Accountability: The insurance incentivizes developers to maintain high construction standards, knowing they are responsible for addressing any hidden defects.
Conclusion
Purchasing a home is a major financial decision that requires careful consideration. By following Infonavit's advice and conducting thorough checks before buying a property, potential homeowners can minimize risks and ensure they are making a sound investment. According to El Imparcial (Arochi, 2025), verifying the developer’s background and being aware of the Quality Insurance are crucial steps in the home-buying process. Always remember to be diligent and informed to protect your investment and ensure a positive homeownership experience.
