Inspections are a relatively recent addition to the buying process in Guanajuato. For years, homes changed hands strictly "as is." Eventually, Realtors began encouraging inspections so buyers wouldn't unknowingly inherit serious defects.

Inspections are now standard practice, though they still don't quite match US standards. Most inspectors will catch the big problems, but they may overlook smaller details that a US inspector would flag. Buyers can negotiate with sellers over defects, but realistically only major issues tend to get resolved — minor ones usually fall to the buyer to fix on their own.

Local inspectors don't carry insurance, so don't expect compensation if something slips past them.

On the bright side, plumbing, electrical, and paint repairs here cost only a fraction of what they would in the US or Canada.