According to the State of Jaliscoâs Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Disease Division, as well as Jaliscoâs State Secretary of Health, there have been no reported cases of zika in Puerto Vallarta. State authorities, however, maintain preventative measures in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, Mexico against zika and other mosquito borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya.
What is Zika?
The zika virus is mosquito borne and is spread, in particular, by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito which also the dengue, yellow fever and chikungunya viruses. This infection is a new, emergent disease in Mexico and a very minimal number of cases have been found in the country. The city of Puerto Vallarta has already been working on preventative measures to protect the cityâs population and tourists. This includes a state coordinated tourism and health program that awards companies and establishments which meet cleanliness and hygiene standards with a special certification known as Distintivos H.
Via: www.paho.org/zikavirus
Preventative measures for dengue, chikungunya and zika in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera
Nayarit
Preventative measures aimed at minimising Aedes Aegypti mosquito populations are part of the ongoing health programs put forth by the city of Puerto Vallarta and state of Jalisco. These initiatives include the fumigation of city streets, beaches and river beds as well as larval control and an aggressive awareness campaign which goes hand in hand with a community outreach program right along the coastline.
Whatâs more, Jaliscoâs Secretary of Health has put in place a robust system of epidemiological surveillance which is designed to enable the early detection of cases in order to minimize the spread of any identified cases. The Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board, the Hotel & Motel Association and the CVB consider the health of citizen and guests to the city to be of paramount importance and will continue their efforts, alongside the city, state and federal authorities (as well as the tourism industry) to keep them safe. Preventative measures look set to be in place indefinitely.
We all know what ârealty,â âreal estateâ and âreal propertyâ refer to in our day to day lives, but what do these terms really mean?
In legal terms, realty, real estate and real property are the terms used to talk about land and property that has been improved legally in some way. These improvements can include canals, roads, buildings, dams, and wells etc in addition to houses and buildings. Property can thus be divided into real and personal property, both of which are protected by civil laws in all countries throughout the world.
The Real Thing!
The word ârealâ comes from the Latin word for âthingâ, which has come to refer to real estate property. âRealâ property is therefore protected by ârealâ action. The current laws have now distinguished between real and personal property. Real property is the land itself and anything that is attached to the land. Personal property is all personal belongings, which include furniture, clothing, finances, and everything âpersonal.â Immovable or real property comes with a deed or title of the land, while movable or personal property doesnât require a title.
Estates, Realty and Ownership Interests
There are different laws for real property, estates, and interests. There are different types of estates and these types of estates are determined by factors such as the sale of the property, a will, a lease, and more. There are rights that come with an estate, and in order to transfer those rights either through a sale, lease or will etc, the estate and property rights have to be determined first.
Here are some more real estate terms that may be of use:
Fee Simple: A fee simple estate can be transferred freely. The fee simple estate is the most common estate, and the tenant can enjoy the use of the property as well as ownership.
Conditional Fee Simple: A conditional fee simple is an estate that can last forever if the deed owner grants these stipulations. If the conditional fee simple is followed, then the property will remain with the grantor, with the possibility of being passed on to another party.
Fee Tail: The fee tail is an estate that is given to an heir if the tenant has passed away.
Life Estate: A life estate is an estate that is also known as a âlife tenantâ, because the estate will continue for the entire life of the grantee. The life estate can be sold, but the duration will continue on as long as the grantee is still living.
Leasehold: The leasehold is a limited term estate. In the contract the lessee and the lessor are invested in the property. The lessee agrees to pay rent to the lessor that has been agreed in the contract.
When you think about making a place your second home, you may be interested in knowing a little about its background and history. Banderas Bay has been one of Mexicoâs favorite places, where many foreigners have settled and treated it as their home away from home. Many donât know that this very scenic place has its share of history to tell with many mysterious twists and turns that has influenced much of what it is today. Below you will find some insight into how the Montgomery Fruit Company contributed to Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bayâs development, thanks to information provided by Facebook group: âel Viejo Vallarta, lugar de los Patasaladasâ (Old Vallarta, place of the salty feet people).
The Arrival of the Montgomery Fruit Company
The Montgomery Fruit Company arrival to Puerto Vallarta (Archive)
It all started when the Montgomery Fruit Companyâs representatives arrived to Banderas Bay in 1923 and bought a vast area of land in Ixtapa, which is a town right next to Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta. The land measured a staggering 45 thousand hectares and was the Ixtapa Hacienda, then owned by an affluent German resident, Don Alberto Beach. The international company used these lands as an extension of their base in Quito and Guayaquil in Ecuador, bringing their knowledge in the banana cultivation industry.
Bananas For a Living in Ixtapa
The Montgomery Fruit Company began to plant bananas and soon experienced a flourishing economy with abundant harvests during their first two years from 1923 to 1925. However, it was short-lived as a devastating cyclone hit the place causing havoc on the banana plantation. This has forced them to look somewhere and leave the area temporarily until they returned in 1926 with new American investors, which marked a turning point for the region. According to historian, Carlos Munguia Fregoso, at this time, Ixtapaâs economy and infrastructure was much stronger than that of Puerto Vallarta.
An economic boom
Archive
With such rich investment and successful harvests, the Ixtapa town soon became a boom for employment opportunities, commerce and other factors, all of which contributed to a fast economic surge. Soon, there was widespread construction of comfortable wooden houses, irrigation canals and a big hotel to house workers coming from far places like Mexico City and from the mountains that surround Banderas Bay. The Mascota River was the site of a newly installed steel bridge and a new railway was constructed, which efficiently transported the harvested bananas from Ixtapa to Boca de Tomate, from where the harvests would be taken by ship and marketed to faraway places.
Migrants arrive to Banderas Bay
These movements changed the way of life for those living and working in Banderas Bay and Puerto Vallarta. The arrival of workers and migrants of the Montgomery Fruit Company from such towns like de El Cuale, San Sebastian, Mascota and Talpa after the faltering silver industry and Mexican Revolution, brought much progress to the areas. What was most interesting was that the migrants who came to settle in Ixtapa and Puerto Vallarta shared similar cultural backgrounds and customs, and many were already friends or acquaintances. This meant that a sense of community grew up very quickly as people created their new home away from hom.
Corn, Tobacco, Beans and Coconut Oil
Thereafter, the area began to harvest a whole range of regional products, such as corn, tobacco, beans, chilis and coconut oil, all of which were exported by sea, even to Mexican destinations as there were no reliable highways at this time.
The decline of the Montgomery Fruit Company
Come 1931, the Montgomery Fruit Companyâs success began to decline, its operation badly affected by the Mexican governmentâs decision to enforce the âejidoâ program. Under this program, local Mexican workers were granted the land upon which they could make their living.
What were once parcels of land owned by the legitimate foreign company were divided and shared among local custodians known as âejidosâ. This eventually forced the company to close.
The Montgomery Fruit Companyâs short, but successful stretch greatly affected Puerto Vallartaâs demographics and stature in a very positive way. Its reputation as a proficient port area was then established and its total influence of what Puerto Vallarta today is still felt around the region. It left a legacy that will forever be etched and will have its own place in Puerto Vallartaâs rich history.
With only a few pieces of candy and chocolates remaining from the holiday season that has just passed, we all look to the new year for inspiration. With the New Year well and truly begun, everyone is thinking about their plans for a successful 2016. The world finance area saw positive occurrences in 2015, and it looks like the real estate market is looking great for 2016 in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. Now is the time to think about your future, so why not think about you and your familyâs future and invest in a second home in Banderas Bay, Mexico?
Why 2016 is the year for a second home in Mexico?
For 2016, the predictions for the economy is looking great! And, this is the best time to invest in a second home abroad. If you are from the United States, Europe, and Canada, then you will find lots of different types of property that are quite affordable, and Mexico is the perfect destination for any second home. Villa La Estancia Residences in Riviera Nayarit, with its range of luxury 2 and 3 bedroom condos on the premises of a 5 star hotel by the beach, even offers developer financing for 2016, which makes it easier for foreigners looking to purchase a luxurious second home easy to do.
Living the highlife in your second home in Riviera Nayarit
You will find the cost of living in a foreign country like Mexico is much lower, which is one of the best reasons to purchase a second home in Riviera Nayarit. Not only does your second home become a viable investment but you get to live the highlife while you are staying in your property by the sea. The exchange rate in Mexico right now is favorable towards those spending dollars, so foreigners will be able to get more for their money when purchasing a home in Mexico as well as be able to afford other luxuries. You and your family will live the highlife in luxury in your second home in Mexico, and you wonât go broke doing it!
Villa La Estancia Residences for 2016
On the Riviera Nayarit in Nuevo Vallarta by the ocean, the Villa La Estancia Residences offer a variety of luxurious choices for properties. The properties offered make an ideal second home for any family, investors, or couples who are looking to purchase real estate in Mexico. Your choices include two and three bedroom sea view condos directly overlooking the beach or pools, penthouses with panoramic ocean views, and much more. Becoming a Villa La Estancia Resident also means that you have access to all of the luxury amenities at the Villa La Estancia hotel, which includes a world class spa, restaurants, gym, pools, room service and more.
Deeded Full and Fractional Second Homes for 2016
In 2016, the Villa La Estancia Residences on the beautiful Banderas Bay offers the chance for you to purchase second homes either on a full time or fractional basis. Fractional ownership is offered for 6 weeks (one eighth) or 13 weeks (one quarter) and are also eligible for developer financing for 2016. When you are ready to purchase and commit to being a full time owner of a second home, then the Villa La Estancia Residences will help you do that too. Buying a Villa La Estancia Residences, Riviera Nayarit in 2016 means that you will live the highlife in your second home!
The Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016 will be held at the Riviera Molino Plaza, which is located in the Zona Romantica in Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay, Mexico. This is the fourth edition of this event and will be held on Saturday February 20, from 9:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon. Anyone interested in Mexico real estate, and Puerto Vallarta real estate in particular, are encouraged to attend so that you can meet professionals and other like minded people to learn all the information needed to purchase any type of property in Mexico.
Home buyers, investors and property owners welcome
The Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016 is recommended for home buyers, investors, and property sellers. Anyone with an interest in real estate will benefit from attending the fair. Even those who may be looking for a change of career. It is a great place to mingle and meet people in the know when it comes to real estate in Puerto Vallarta.
Topics for Discussion at Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016
The Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016 promises to bring experts from Mexico, the United States, and Canada to offer valuable information and tips on the process of purchasing property in Mexico and taxation. There will also be all types of exhibitors who are there to answer questions and give advice on Mexico property ownership, notary services, insurance on properties, banking in Mexico, rental potential, architecture and interiors, and there will also be exhibitors who offer advice on health and wellness.
The Panel of Real Estate Experts
The most important advantage of attending the Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016 is the Panel of Professionals who will offer valuable information for investors and property owners. Speakers include, Cameron MacIntosh, a Canadian accountant, Cindy DuChateau, an accountant from the United States, Carl Timothy from Timothy Real Estate Group, Jessica Riedesser, a real estate attorney, and one of the top Mexican tax specialists who will talk about rental revenues, capital gains, and how the two are handled between Mexico and your home country.
The Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016 will have more than twenty exhibitors providing valuable information for anyone with an interest in real estate in Puerto Vallarta and Mexico.
When:February 20th starting at 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Where:Rivera Molino Plaza, in the Romantic Zone (Old Town Vallarta).
If you are thinking about purchasing property in Mexico but you are a bit wary, you are not alone. While there really is nothing to fear when it comes to purchasing real estate in Mexico it can be a bit daunting, and you are right to be here seeking some Mexico property advice before making your investment. This article is aimed at people like you who want to find out more about Mexico property purchasing.
Mexico Property Advice
Get help from someone you trust
It is recommended (but not essential) that you hire an attorney who is familiar with property laws in Mexico and who can speak both Spanish and English. Working with a reputable professional real estate agent whom you trust is another alternative. You will however, need the services of an accredited notary public.
Select the property you want, then verbally agree on a price
The first step is to find the appropriate property for your requirements and desires then agree a price verbally.
Get a sales agreement (Convenio de Compra/Venta)
The next step is to get a âConvenio de Compra/Ventaâ also known as a sales agreement, which is where your attorney or notary will come in handy. This agreement should cover all the property costs, any exclusions or inclusions and a deposit (generally 5-10%, and if you cancel your purchase, then the deposit is non-refundable).
Property Trust
Non Mexicans need to set up a property trust known as a fideicomiso if the property that you are wanting to purchase is within the 50km border zone, which includes the coastlines. If the property is not within the border zone, then usually no trust will need to be set up. This can be done at most reputable banks and is recommended over having some private third party âlendâ their name.
Permission to purchase land
The Foreign Secretary Office must grant permission for you to purchase land in Mexico, and this permission is called the âCalvo Clauseâ, which states you are not seeking any foreign jurisdiction for the property you are wishing to purchase.
Consulte a Notary Public
If the property that you are purchasing is being sold by a real estate developer, then seek advice from a Notary Public, so the Notary Public can check for all permits. If you are buying directly from the seller, you will need the help of notary to ensure that all tax bills, utilities bills and any service fees on the land have been paid.
Ask to see a copy of the deed
Ask the seller of the property for a copy of the property deed. The Notary Public will make sure the deeds are legal and you should ask the Notary Public to make sure the land is not ejido land, which means that its sale is restricted.
Immigration Status
Make sure that your immigration status is legal when you purchase. That means you will need to have a valid 6 month tourist permit or official visa, so the Mexican government knows you are legally allowed to be in the country.
Prepare Documents
Make sure you have copies of any marriage or birth certificates, your passport, migratory documents, etc and be prepared to have them translated by an official translator (known in Mexico as a âperitoâ) and apostilled.
Capital Gains Tax
The seller is responsible to pay all Capital Gains Tax unless you, the buyer, have agreed to pay or divide these taxes.
Final Payment
The final payment will be made at the notary publicâs office at the signing. You may wish to have your attorney with you when paying with cash or financing from a bank.
If you would like anymore Mexico property advice, click here.
Other than the obvious benefits of trading in freezing snow and biting winds for balmy temperatures and a sun-soaked beach there are quite a few desirable factors when it comes down to taking up the snowbirdsâ lifestyle in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta. Thousands of people per year up and leave Canada and the USA from November to March in favour of the sunny shores of Mexico, and Villa La Estancia Residences is there to greet many of them. Villa La Estancia Residences are a luxurious alternative to booking a hotel or Villa year on year.
Hereâs why you should choose fractional or full ownership at Villa La Estancia Residences to become a true snowbird in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta:
Escape all or part of the winter
We challenge you to deny the appeal of spending the coldest months of the year sipping margaritas on Villa La Estancia Residencesâ sandy beach. Whether you are retired and you want to split your year between home and Mexico, or you just like to get away as often as possible, the benefits of fractional and outright ownership at Villa La Estancia Residences in Riviera Nayarit are many.
For a start, you will never have to face a cold winter unless wish to do so! If you want the freedom to pop in to your home away from home without warning at any time of the year then full ownership is the way to go; you can always rent out the weeks you know you definitely wonât be visiting Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta. If itâs really just the winter months you want, or you donât relish the hassle of maintaining two homes, you can opt for fractional ownership. This will allow you to purchase either one eighth or one quarter fractions at Villa La Estancia Residences.
Luxury for Less!
Though the privilege of buying a second home is one that not everyone will be able to attain you will find that once you get to Mexico the cost of living in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta is much lower than in Canada or the USA. Youâll save on heating and air conditioning expenses when you stay in Puerto Vallarta in winter as the temperatures are high enough to be comfortable, but no so high that they become overbearing.
Lifeâs luxuries are also more affordable on Banderas Bay; spa treatments, beauty days, gourmet dining and even little treats like taxis are cheaper. Furthermore, as you will be living on site at one of the best 5 star hotels in Riviera Nayarit, you will enjoy access to all the facilities and amenities at Villa La Estancia hotel. This means access to the Tatewari Spa, kayaking and paddle boarding, yoga and pilates lessons, swimming pools, outdoor Jacuzzis and fine dining options. On top of which, one of the best beaches in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta becomes your front yard!
Tatewari – Luxury Spa at Villa La Estancia Residences
Make friends
The large and thriving expat community that can be found in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta is a great bonus; you can make plenty of friends when you take part in activities such as the regular ArtWalk in Puerto Vallarta and Bucerias, dance lessons, local writers groups, language schools for Spanish classes and other foreign languages, farmers markets and more. Getting involved in charitable work is also a thriving pastime of many snowbirds in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta.
Medical Tourism
Private healthcare is one of those luxuries that is more affordable in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta, and as a result many people come to Mexicoâs Pacific coast to have nose jobs, tummy tucks, teeth whitening and even hair transplants or hip replacements. Imagine arriving for winter and returning home for the summer a new you!
Connectivity
United Airlines, Air Canada, WestJet, Delta and other major airlines all have flights which land at the Puerto Vallarta International airport which is less than half an hour from Villa La Estancia Residences. There are also plenty of budget airlines whose flights land in Puerto Vallarta. So not only are you able to enjoy a warm winter here, your friends and family can visit you with relative ease. Just be sure to tell them when you want some time to enjoy your property in peace!
If you would like more information about purchasing real estate in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta to become a true blue snowbird, click here for more expert advice.
An experience and adventure like no other is swimming with the dolphins in Riviera Nayarit. How often do you get to interact with marine life for a day? You may be surprised to know that dolphins are very intelligent. Dolphins love to interact with people, and they instantly connect with people in a special way that other animals just donât do. In the Caribbean and Mexico, you will find over a thousand different companies that allow you to swim with the dolphins. Why not make a day trip to swim with the dolphins from your home away from home at Villa La Estancia Residences?
Swimming with Dolphins in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta
There are a few things that you should consider when choosing a tour to swim with dolphins in Riviera Nayarit. You should avoid swimming with dolphins at any of the water parks where the dolphins are kept in swimming pools where the water contains chlorine. Chlorine in the water can make the dolphins go blind. This type of environment is not safe for the dolphins, so this type of company should be avoided. Look for a dolphin sanctuary where the dolphins are housed in a larger area too. There are also a number of ecological companies in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta that offer tours to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat.
What You Can Expect?
If you choose to go swimming with the dolphins in an enclosed area at a dolphin sanctuary in Riviera Nayarit, then you will be able to can touch, kiss, hug, and watch the dolphins do all sorts of tricks. The trainer will even teach you how to do some of the tricks with the dolphins, which include talking to them, feeding them, riding next to them etc. These kinds of tours are more suitable for children.
A tour company who have experience with wild dolphins can take you on a cruise where you will search for pods of dolphins swimming in the open sea. You may not get to kiss the dolphins, but you will get to swim with them in their natural habitat. Just imagine swimming with the dolphins in the open sea!
Helpful Tips for your Swim with the Dolphins in Riviera Nayarit
Avoid booking with a large group, as this often means you will have less time with the dolphins.
Always treat the dolphins with respect and friendliness; they are very sensitive animals and will respond to your attitude towards them.
Make sure you that you donât wear sunscreen in the water (unless it is a special ecological sunscreen), because these creams can irritate the dolphin’s skin. It is better to cover your skin with a longsleeve swimsuit and cap.
Smile for the camera and save money to buy a souvenir photograph.
Swimming with the dolphins in Riviera Nayarit is a wonderful opportunity that doesnât occur in your daily life. Donât let this type of adventure pass you by.
Are you looking for a luxurious stay in Mexico? Maybe youâre in need of a seasonal getaway, trading winter blues for tanned hues. Or maybe youâre looking to move to a more tropical location permanently? Either way, Mexico is your best bet, and Bucerias is quite possibly the best location for your high-end real estate needs. Why? Well letâs take a look at this checklist with the key points:
Affordability – Check
High-end real estate in Bucerias, Mexico can be an extremely affordable option, while still being a very chic one. The high-end real estate deals youâll find here – especially considering the beachfront locations and scenic views right from your bedroom window – are usually even better than what youâd find back home, whether that be in the United States, Canada, or even Europe. Such incredible value for money makes high-end real estate in Bucerias, Mexico an extremely popular choice for expats and travelers everywhere, and of all ages. There are even different real estate options to choose from, ranging from full to fractional, to help work around even the tightest of budgets.
Relaxed atmosphere – Yup, Bucerias has it!
Bucerias, Mexico is a very laid back little fishing town, with golden sands and friendly locals. Even the water is laid-back, with calmer waves and shallower waters. This chill vibe also doesnât take away from the fact that Bucerias and the surrounding areas such as Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta and Punta Mita have lots of adventure to offer as well. You can find plenty to do, from diving to horseback riding, and the dining is superb.
Safety – Yes indeed!
Bucerias is one of the safest areas in all Mexico, with very fine high-end real estate options in gated communities, condos and resorts. You can feel secure moving your family here, or having friends come to visit.
Fun – You can bet your bottom dollar!
As aforementioned, despite Bucerias, Mexico being a very relaxed region, you can always find something fun and exciting to do! If sports are more your thing, try golfing or fishing. If you want to make a splash and have some wet and wild adventures, try diving or whale watching. And at the end of the day you can always kick back and relax at a restaurant, bar, or spa. If you want to head up the road for about 30 minutes or so, you can also find some very lively nightlife in Puerto Vallarta or Punta Mita.
Buying property in Mexico is a great investment compared to the real estate available in the United States and in Europe, and includes houses, condos, apartments, luxury mansions and resort living like that offered here at Villa La Estancia Residences. The prices of property in Mexico saw a downturn after the recession of 2009 but are on the increase, so be sure to act soon to get the best prices.
Pros and Cons of Buying Property in Mexico
As in any country, you may hear âhorror storiesâ related to buying property, but generally speaking, purchasing property in Mexico is very easy and goes smoothly. The land in Mexico is low in price, and low local labor costs mean that maintenance is much cheaper than back home, so too are the taxes and your utility expenses. Likewise the actual cost of real estate is generally very affordable in Mexico.
The reasons for purchasing property in Mexico will be different for each and every person reflecting your personal circumstances. Maybe, you have been residing in Mexico for several years, renting property after property, which is always a waste of money in the long term, or maybe you are looking for an investment that will bring in extra income. For example, the most common reason for purchasing property in Mexico at Villa La Estancia Residences is to have a second home where you can stay for vacations both long and short-term.
Choosing the Best Investment
Property in Mexico increases in value just like in other countries, however it is worth noting that property prices and their rate of increase will depend very much on the popularity of the location you are choosing for your purchase. For example; is it in a popular city like Puerto Vallarta or on the beach? Is there a large development like a shopping mall, airport or highway planned for your area? There are three key factors which can help you choose property in Mexico that is likely to rise in value which include: the location of the property, the attractions near the property, and if the property is located by the airport or busy highways.
When you purchasing property in Mexico, one of the key factors is to think about the current level of development of the area and its potential. You might buy a property at a low price while there is very little to do in the way of attractions, restaurants and access to other major cities or an airport, and then see a great rise in your property value as development begins to happen in that area, like a new highway or shopping mall. However, beware that this may take some years or never happen in particularly rural areas. Mexico is nearly 2 million square kilometers and many of the country is not accessed easily. The highways and roads are improving, and roads are being added to the remote areas, so be patient as this does take time.
Research
Before you purchase property in Mexico you should first do research on the property and the area that it is located in, then make sure you choose the location very carefully. You should always hire a professional to conduct the purchase of the property, so that the legal transaction follows the laws in Mexico.
There have been thousands and thousands of foreigners that have purchased property successfully in Mexico. You can be another foreigner that purchases property in Mexico too.
Why not come and visit us at Villa La Estancia Residences on a Try and Buy visit to start the ball rolling. Click here for more information about our TRY AND BUY scheme. Before you know it you will be a property owner in Mexico.
