Title issues

The explanation of your plight is a little short on details, but it is probably safe to say that at any Mexican beach resort it is "common" to find scam-artist realtors and fraudulent developers. Zihua cannot claim exemption from that.

Separtely, the legal system in this country -- including land title -- can be a confusing, tangled mess to negotiate for locals, let alone foreigners.

Some basic rules: Always deal with on a reputable real estate agent on any transaction, and even contract an outside lawyer for additional advice. NEVER "leap before you look," and NEVER buy a property "off the drawing board."