What to Expect During the Handover of Your New Tulum Condo

Here’s What to Expect During the Handover of Your New Construction Tulum Condo

You did it.
The contracts are signed. The payments are made. Your dream condo in Tulum is finally ready.

But before you pop the champagne, there’s one final (and important) step: the handover.

If you’ve never bought a preconstruction property before, the handover might feel a little confusing — or even a little overwhelming.
Here’s exactly what to expect, so you can walk in confidently, avoid surprises, and protect your investment.

1. You’ll Be Invited for a Handover Walkthrough

The developer or their team will schedule a handover walkthrough with you (or your representative, if you can’t be there in person).
This is your first official inspection of the finished unit.

✅ The property should be fully built, with all promised features and finishes complete.
✅ Utilities (water, electricity) should be functioning.
✅ The developer will expect you to point out any issues on the spot.

If you can’t attend personally, it’s highly recommended to hire a local inspector or trusted real estate professional to attend for you.
(At Caribe Luxury Homes, we often help our clients with this to make sure everything is in order.)

2. You’ll Need to Make a Snag List (Punch List)

During the walkthrough, you’ll be asked to create what’s called a snag list (also known as a punch list).
This is a list of anything that needs fixing, adjusting, or completing before you officially accept the property.

Some common items that show up on snag lists:

• Minor paint touch-ups

• Cabinet doors that don’t close properly

• Loose light switches

• Cracked tiles

• Missing fixtures

• Air conditioning not working properly

👉 Pro Tip: Take your time. Open every door, run every tap, test every light, flush every toilet.
It’s much easier to fix issues before final acceptance.

3. You’ll Check That the Promised Features Are There

This is also your moment to verify that everything you were promised is delivered.
In Tulum, new construction projects often include things like:

• Kitchen appliances

• Air conditioners

• Water heaters

• Closet carpentry

• Rooftop access (for penthouse units)

If anything is missing, document it immediately.

👉 Important: Bring a copy of your signed sales contract with the list of included features, so you can compare on-site.

4. You’ll Review Final Handover Documents

Once you approve the unit (or after the snag list items are completed), you’ll be asked to sign final handover documents.
These documents officially confirm that:

• You accept the unit.

• You agree that any outstanding repairs will be completed (with a timeline).

• The developer has fulfilled their main delivery obligations.

After signing, future issues are usually handled through a warranty claim, not direct requests — so it’s critical to be thorough during this step.

5. You’ll Receive Keys and Access Credentials

🎉 Once handover is complete, you’ll receive:

• Physical keys

• Electronic fobs or codes (for common areas, parking, gyms, etc.)

• HOA (Homeowners Association) contact information

• Property management options (if available)

Congratulations — you now officially own your Tulum condo!

6. What Happens If You Find Problems After Handover?

Most developments offer a warranty period (often 6–12 months) for major construction issues like:

• Structural problems

• Plumbing leaks

• Electrical malfunctions

If you discover a problem after moving in, you’ll need to file a formal warranty request with the developer or the HOA.
The response time can vary, so it’s best to document everything with photos and written descriptions.

👉 Pro Tip: Save a copy of your warranty terms at hand. It’ll save you headaches later.

Protect Yourself by Being Thorough

The handover process isn’t just a formality.
It’s your final chance to make sure everything you paid for is delivered — and working — before you officially take full ownership.

Take your time. Ask questions. Bring help if you need it.

And if you ever feel unsure, remember: at Caribe Luxury Homes, we help our buyers through every step — including the handover — so you’re never alone.

🌴 Ready to explore properties where quality and delivery are guaranteed?
Contact us today to get started.