Luxury apartments and Condos for Baby Boomers

Luxury apartments and Condos for Baby Boomers

With the oldest baby boomers about to turn 70 years old this year, the majority of these post-war babies are too young-at-heart for retirement villages and still many years away from requiring aged care accommodation. They prefer to downsize from family homes to smaller, luxurious apartments.

Below are some thoughts on what to consider when going through the downsizing process.

The Community

Baby boomers should consider the mix of ages among other residents when choosing the right apartment or condo for luxury downsizing. Some apartment-complexes have a wide range of ages, including young families, while others cater for baby boomer and empty nesters which tend to develop into retirement communities. Many retirees and baby boomers regard community friendliness as an important aspect when choosing the right place to live later in life, and like to have access to local attractions and leisure facilities and be closer to the action than they were before.

Luxury Amenities

To get baby boomers’ attention in today’s highly competitive new apartment market, many health-conscious over-55s clients are looking for onsite gyms, concierge services, underground parking and ground level shops, restaurants and cafes. The inclusion of a pool is also a must for many people, not just baby boomers.

Location

When making your choice of apartment, the older buyers need to make sure that they think the process through and buy in an A-grade location so your home/investment’s value is assured in future years. There are advantages in small boutique apartment complexes, but if there are many onsite features – pools, gyms, communal spaces etc, you will need to assess how much these facilities will cost you and include that in your deliberations.

Facing Old Age and Vulnerabilities

Getting older brings new perspectives on life for some people. They begin to value convenience and realize their vulnerabilities. Ground floor apartments with lovely views in low-rise developments with an elevator become a preference and wheelchair access becomes more of a concern.

    Questions to consider for baby boomers

  • How much are the maintenance costs and how are they budgeted?
  • Is there a long-term maintenance plan for the complex and how has this been budgeted?
  • Are there non-slip surfaces? If so, how much of the home has non-slip surfaces?
  • Are areas suitable for use with walking aids?
  • Are cupboards easily accessed?
  • Is the lighting suitable?
  • Can power outlets be easily reached?
  • Is the bathroom designed well? Can the bath or shower be easily accessed?
  • Is there enough room in the bathroom for a wheelchair?
  • Are the ‘high tech’ features in the apartment including automatic drape opening/closing, security features or remote control of lighting easy to understand and operate?
  • Are there any communal areas (dining/function rooms) that can be booked for entertaining bigger groups?
  • Are there enough storage facilities?
  • Are dogs or cats allowed on the premises? Are there any local council rules?
  • Are there any examples of the developer’s previous projects? Can I speak to any residents?
  • Is access to the benches low enough if I later need a wheelchair?

Homes by the Sea

Have you always dreamed of a life by the beach? Are you constantly looking at homes by the sea. There are many benefits to purchasing homes by the sea, take a look below:

  1. Physical Health Benefits
  2. Living by the sea provides physical, spiritual, and mental health benefits. The sea air is full of negative ions that increase the way our bodies absorb oxygen and have a positive effect on our health and mood. In warmer climates like Mexico, homes by the sea also mean greater amounts of sunlight, which is an important source of Vitamin D that helps to increase your immune system, aids bone strength, increases endorphins, and is also believed to lower the risk of some types of cancer, bearing in mind that you should protect your skin from its potentially harmful rays.

  3. Soothing Sounds
  4. Homes by the sea guarantee the lulling sound of the waves to serenade you each night, for those who like to leave their windows open rather than use the air conditioning. The soothing sounds of waves are peaceful, relaxing, and meditative, helping you sleep better at night as they alter the wave patterns in your brain. A good night’s sleep or a deep meditation can do wonders for your state of mind and inner peace.

  5. Fresh Seafood
  6. If you purchase a home by the sea, then you can indulge in fresh seafood anytime of the year. If you enjoy eating Mahi Mahi, Tuna, Oysters or shrimp, then Cabo San Lucas or Riviera Nayarit in Mexico are perfect options when choosing homes by the sea. In these top destinations, you won’t need to go to the supermarket for your fresh seafood as you can catch it yourself or go to one of the seafood stands by the beach. The prices are affordable and fresh quality fish is available year-round.

  7. Exercise for Free
  8. When you choose homes by the sea, you won’t need to pay for costly gym memberships, because you can get plenty of exercise at the beach for free. You can go swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, surfing, and beachcombing. Just swimming in the ocean can burn 200 calories. At Villa La Estancia in Cabo San Lucas or Riviera Nayarit you will have the added benefit that your home by the sea includes access to a state-of-the-art gym and swimming pools.

  9. Boating
  10. Homes by the sea bring with them the possibility of investing in your own boat or renting one for special occasions. In top beach destinations like Riviera Nayarit and Cabo San Lucas you can enjoy fishing tours, pleasure cruises, and adventure tours any day of the week. You can even charter a yacht, which is what many snowbirds do, because then you will have a captain and deck mate to take care of you throughout the day.

Ready to start looking for homes by the sea? Browse our website or consider our Try and Buy offer.

Looking for Property in Mexico?

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 ‘horror stories’ 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.

Luxury Realty in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta

Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta, that forms part of Banderas Bay on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, is ever becoming the top destination for luxury realty. Development in Mexico and the real estate market has seen a revival over the last couple of years following the recent recession, yet you can still find excellent prices for luxury realty in both Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta. While forecasts are promising for developers as house prices are set to rise in the coming years, buyers should make haste to purchase while the effects of the recession on prices can still be felt in Mexico.

two-br-nay

Your Chance for Luxury Realty in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta

Despite what you might think about Mexico, if there is one thing that the country does best is to create luxury homes at affordable prices. Luxury in Mexico costs less, without a doubt. Your dream home with all the services can be yours in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta without having to give up having a foot back home. Second home ownership is truly affordable in Mexico.

Luxury realty comes in all shapes and sizes in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta: from grand mansions on the water’s edge to lavish condos with pools and beach access to resort living like Villa La Estancia Residences, where you can enjoy all the facilities of a five star resort like pools, gourmet restaurants, a first class spa, gym, room service and so forth. The neighborhood you choose within Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta can also affect the price of your luxury realty investment, albeit not as drastically as it does in the United States and Canada.

Benefits of Living in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta

Besides the year-round sunshine and warm temperatures throughout winter, living in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta has its benefits. Firstly, the luxuries that make life more fulfilling are more affordable. You can see yourself getting a massage each week, beauty treatments that you maybe can’t afford back home, or surgeries that are considered a luxury but which make you’re life more comfortable.

The thriving expat community in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta is also an attraction for many people seeking luxury realty. You can join all kinds of groups such as painting classes, writers’ clubs, poetry festivals, yoga classes, fishing and yacht clubs to mention just a few. For those of you who like to support local charities, you can also meet other expats helping out as a host of different non-profit organizations including orphanages, cats and dogs groups, turtle sanctuaries and disability charities welcome the help of residents.

Your social life need not just be about helping the community, there are plenty of bars, fine restaurants (including gourmet wine and food festivals each year), dancing clubs (with lessons) and street parties to enjoy. And when there is nothing special to do, you will never tire of walking the malecon boardwalk to catch a subset with an ice-cream or frozen yogurt. Life really is good in Banderas Bay!

Luxury realty in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta is not just about elegant houses and property investment, it is about a way of life that you will want to share with your loved ones, and which will enrich your life no end.

mexico real estate in bucerias

Best Mexico Real Estate in Bucerias, Riviera Nayarit

It’s pretty safe to say that if you are reading this, you are looking into the prospect of moving to Mexico and seeking some Mexico real estate advice. Whether you are just looking for a seasonal retreat or a permanent residency, Mexico real estate in Bucerias, Riviera Nayarit, could be just what you are looking for.

What you need to know about Mexico Real Estate

The decision to move to Mexico can be a rather big one, but no worries! There are many resources out there to help you, and many pleasure seekers from the US and Canada have already made the move successfully before you. Choosing the right location in Mexico that will suit your lifestyle and taste is one of the most important factors to consider and one of the first things to look at in the real estate decision process.

Moving to Mexico

Many people from Europe, Canada, and the United States choose to live and even work in Mexico every year. Mexico can be a very appealing location for vacations, permanent residency, and retirement. It is also tends to be a much more affordable and laid-back option than real estate back home. Many people find a higher quality of life in Mexico, with a lower cost of living; and even the travel expenses are often less than expected, with very reasonably priced budget airfares available these days.

mexico real estate in bucerias

Benefits of Real Estate in Bucerias, Riviera Nayarit

Bucerias, Riviera Nayarit is a beautiful beachfront location on the Pacific Coast of Mexico on Banderas Bay, close by to Punta Mita and Puerto Vallarta. It is a quaint little fishing village that has been a popular locale for many expats, what with being packed to the brim with wonderful places to dine, drink, and play. Bucerias also has one of the best beaches around- one great big stretch of warm golden sands with a beautiful ocean for swimming and taking sunset strolls. Paradise is also easily accessible, as the Puerto Vallarta International Airport is a mere 30 minutes away.

Types of Real Estate Options in Bucerias

There are many different real estate options in the beautiful Bucerias, Mexico. Here you will find everything from fractional-ownership condominiums to full ownership homes, to one-bedroom studios, to beachfront villas. Your budget will be the biggest deciding factor on which type of real estate you should look at in Bucerias, shortly followed by how much time you will be spending there. Just ask yourself what type of accommodations you need. You might also want to consider purchasing (in full or fractionally) real estate within a hotel or resort, thereby getting luxurious resort benefits like spas and five star services.

5 Tips for Purchasing Real Estate in Mexico

5 Tips for Purchasing Real Estate in Mexico

When planning to buy real estate in Mexico with the purpose of having it rented out to vacationers or to enjoy it as a summer or winter home, here are 5 tips to consider so that your purchase works perfectly in your favor.

  1. The Neighborhood where it’s situated is crucial
  2. When purchasing real estate in Mexico, the location of your second home is important, especially if you are going to rent it when you are not going to be using it. For example, if you want to rent to younger couples and groups, then you should buy property close to all the action in Mexico’s top tourist zones, or if you want to rent to the high end market, the location should be exclusive and quiet, yet within easy reach of fine dining and cultural activities. For example, Villa La Estancia Residences are perfect for renting to those seeking luxury and high end facilities, while they are close enough to Nuevo Vallarta’s restaurants and its shopping centers as well as Puerto Vallarta, Bucerias and Punta Mita.

  3. Seek Real Estate in Mexico with the best amenities:
  4. As potential buyers of real estate in Mexico who want quality vacations, a snowbird sanctuary or a new life, the amenities of your property are of paramount concern. Look for a place which has existing modern and excellent amenities. It should have easy access to the beach, swimming pool(s), be close to areas for fine dining and preferably have a gym – these are the kinds of thing renters are looking for, a aspects that will make living in your home away from home all the more comfortable. Enjoying facilities nearby are big pluses like a golf course, spa & treatment centers and excellent restaurants.

    Also, try checking current projects or future facilities being built in the area like malls, shopping centers, theme parks, cinemas and a transport station. Being close to service oriented companies makes a location all the more attractive; so you should keep this in mind. Internet access and a good signal for televisions and communication are essential must haves for any renter.

    At Villa la Estancia Residences, you have all of these elements in one location, without even leaving the complex. You have access to one of Banderas Bay’s best beaches, a complete fitness center, gourmet restaurants, a world class spa, swimming pools and even room service! Resort living is certainly one of the more luxurious options when choosing real estate in Mexico.

  5. Inquire about possible developments and constructions in the area:
  6. Make a full inspection of the place or inquire with the concerned local government about future plans that they may have some hints into. There can be big companies planning to build modern and sophisticated homes or condos which you might have to compete with for the years to come. Check the surroundings. The property you’re about to buy can provide a good view of the ocean sunset, but having a big vacant lot at its front gives the possibility of someone buying it and building a higher structure than yours. It can erase your property’s advantage and can affect largely potential renters.

    Villa la Estancia Residences is highly priviledged in this aspect as no one is going to spoil your view. The complex is built right on the beach and your will have a sea view from your condo. Also, you can be sure that the area has plans for expansion, but as it is a hotel zone, your real estate investment in Mexico will always be in demand. You also benefit from the marketing that the hotel and the local government do to promote these areas.

  7. The risk of natural disasters
  8. It’s better to invest in a place that is safe against the occurrence of natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes. As an investor who puts in a lot of hard earned money for a property, you should look at all possible angles to save your property from these nature’s havocs. It would be best to invest in an area close to or in near proximity to fire departments, local government aid facilities and police stations.

    Villa La Estancia has been built according to strict architectural regualations to withstand hurricane force winds and earth tremors.

  9. Real estate professionals and administrative experts.
  10. Get a real estate professional who deserves your full trust and will give their all in giving you the best advice. Once you have decided and bought a property, look for a person who can take care of it and will help you out in looking for potential customers such as a property manager and rental agent. Find personnel that are capable of giving efficient administrative services. Make a research and know the feedbacks of their past clients. You should be careful in your choice because you must have the people who would work hard enough that can spell the difference between failure and success in your endeavor.

    Villa La Estancia Residences offers a property management service with the option for rentals to owners who wish to contract these services.

Mexico Property Advice for Riviera Nayarit

Riviera Nayarit, with its fabulous beaches and scenic landscapes makes owning a Mexico property a dream come true for homeseekers and investors. Before preparing your finances and booking the removal trucks, here is some advice to heed for buying Mexico property in Riviera Nayarit.

Advice for buying Mexico Property in Riviera Nayarit

Consider both Full and Fractional Property Ownership

If you have the money to pay for it, becoming a full property owner in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico is a great choice. A special bank trust is mandatory for non-Mexican residents to purchase land within 50 km of the beach because it is classed as federal land. However, the bank trust, known as fideicomiso, is very secure and gives you all the recognized legal rights to the property. Fractional ownership is also a option in many high end Mexican properties, which means you can invest in a more luxurious home for less.

Consult a Trustworthy Real Estate Agent

Unless you know exactly which property you wish to purchase, such as in the case of homeowners buying Villa La Estancia Residences direct from the developer, you would be best advised to select a reputable real estate agent. Finding the right agent in Riviera Nayarit for your needs can be a tedious process as there are so many realtors to choose from. The best advice is to look for real estate agents with the right qualifications and extensive experience, such as being a member of the prestigious Mexico Professional Real Estate Association (AMPI). The rest is up to how you click and if you feel that the agent has fully understood what you are looking for.

Mortgages

Many people do not realize that they can take out a Mexican mortgage to purchase a property in Riviera Nayarit. Nowadays, owning a condo or a home in Riviera Nayarit is possible through a Mexican bank mortgage for foreigners. It can do wonders in your finances by giving you the freedom and flexibility in handling payments. Homeseekers interested in buying a property at Villa La Estancia Residences, Riviera Nayarit can also take advantage of developer financing for a limited time, providing financing for up to 10 years.

Purchase Times and Processes

You should anticipate that the purchasing process time will take a longer than doing it in your home country. This includes the process of qualifying you for a mortgage and preparing all the paperwork to make everything smooth and legal. It’s not complicated, it’s just better to be informed beforehand so as not to lose your patience.

What to know about Buying Land in Mexico

Buying land in Riviera Nayarit is a little more tricky, and although there are many lots for sale, there are those that can’t be sold. Many of the most appealing plots of land are restricted for sale to both foreigners and Mexicans because they are what is known as “ejido” land. Ejido land is that which belongs to a particular community and can only be leased and not sold. Talk to a licensed agent if you are set on buying land, he or she will be able to direct you to legitimate lands for sale.

Being a property owner in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico is a big decision but one that will bring years of enjoyment for you and your family. For more advice, leave your questions in the comments box.

Puerto Vallarta 2nd Best Place to Retire According to CNN

According to a recent article on the CNN website , Puerto Vallarta comes second place after Portugal’s Algarve for the best place to retire in the world. Among the retirement destinations mentioned on the list of amazing locations to retire were Cayo in Belize, Languedoc in France, Abruzzo in Italy, Medellín in Colombia and Hua Hin in Thailand.

Puerto Vallarta one of the Best Places to Retire

The CNN’s article regarding the world’s best places to retire confirms what we have known for a long time at Villa La Estancia Residences. Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit have so much to offer retirees and makes for an amazing place to relocate or enjoy a second home.

Amongst Puerto Vallarta’s features that were mentioned in the CNN article were its beaches, fishing, shopping, restaurants as well as the picturesque downtown area with its cobblestone streets. The article also mentions the convenience of direct flights to Puerto Vallarta’s international airport from the United States and its tropical climate, comparing it to Hawaii.

We think you will agree, it’s great to see Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit getting the recognition that it deserves as a number one place to retire. If you don’t believes us, come and check it out for yourself with our Try and Buy offer.

Finding a Dream Home in Mexico

A lot of people ponder the possibility of making their dream home in Mexico but think that it is too difficult or are put off by the seeming language barrier. Thankfully, the reality of finding your dream home in Mexico is somewhat easier than you might think.

There are a variety of dream homes available to match a diversity of budgets, styles, and luxury pursuits in Mexico. If you are looking for your dream home in Mexico, all you need to do is some research, locate the right broker, and follow your gut. The following steps will help start you on your way to finding your dream home in Mexico.

Makes Sure the Location Matches your Lifestyle

Before you buy anything, you need to determine what type of dream home and environment best suits you. This means you must decide how big your home needs to be and what type of weather you are willing to tolerate all year. One big plus about Mexico is the moderate temperatures. So, the climate will feel either like spring or summer in specific locations, and you don’t have to worry about winter weather if you choose intelligently. Also, keep in mind the type of activities you like to do in your community. Do you like to fish? Go golfing? Dining out? Go Salsa Dancing? Shop at farmers’ markets, etc.? These are some of the things you should consider while deciding where you want to reside.

For example, Nuevo Vallarta in Riviera Nayarit, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas are ideal spots for those who like the finer things in life: art galleries, farmer’s markets, vibrant expat neighborhood, diving, whale watching, fine gourmet restaurants, and luxurious golf courses.

Find a Good Real Estate Agent you Like

Locate an established real estate agent with great references, and find out if the agent is a member of the Asociación de Profesionales Inmobiliarios, A.C (AMPI). An AMPI real estate agent in Mexico will be highly familiar with the pros and cons of getting a home in Mexico and should be able to provide information on new real estate projects and houses that are for sale. Your agent will help you successfully close the sale and assist you with the particulars involved in buying your dream home in Mexico.

Visit First

Very few people will buy a property without having seen it, unless you are purchasing bricks and mortar for your investment portfolio rather than to live in. A try and buy visit is a good way to simulate the experience of living in the communities you are considering for your Mexican dream home. A few of the property developers will grant permission for you to reside at the residence temporarily so you can get a feel of the property before making a final decision to buy.

Watch the Media

Scan local newspapers and subscribe to real estate newsletters to locate currently available properties.

Trust your Instincts and follow your heart

And last but not least, always trust your instincts when deciding to buy your dream home. Pay attention to your suspicions and ask for clarification when you are uncertain about certain property particulars. Try not to get caught up in hard sell deals because you will recognize your dream home as soon as you step foot into it.

Can Foreigners Buy Real Estate in Mexico?

Foreigners can easily buy real estate in Mexico, and many people from the United States, Canada and Europe have done so without any problems. There are certain restrictions that apply, which can be simply resolved but which should be taken into consideration so there are no surprises.

Restricted Zone for Foreigners Buying Real Estate in Mexico

The ‘restricted zone’ in Mexico for foreigners buying real estate is designated up to 62 miles from the borders and up to 31 miles from the coast. What this means is that foreigners are not allowed to hold the direct titles to land and property in these areas. So how do foreigners buy real estate in Mexico’s beach destinations? Well, that is where Mexico’s “fideicomiso” comes in to save the day. Essential the fideicomiso is a bank trust that holds the title of the land on your behalf in order to comply with constitutional restrictions.

Background to Fideicomiso

Since 1917, in response to the Mexican Revolution when the Mexican Constitution stated that all foreigners were prohibited from holding any ‘fee simple’ titles on property located in the restricted zones, it has not been possible for foreigners to buy property without a fideicomiso. In an attempt to avoid scams in the 1970s where foreigners would have to “borrow the names” of Mexican nationals to open their businesses, Mexico’s Foreign Investment Laws began allowing corporations to own the titles on properties in the restricted zones, but titles for residential properties were still restricted.

Nowadays, Mexican banks support a law that now lets foreigners own and enjoy any property in the restricted zones legally. Foreigners can purchase the property without just being an investor under a fideicomiso trust.

How does fideicomiso work?

The Mexican fideicomiso will permit non-citizens of Mexico to purchase real estate in the restricted zone if they allow the bank to be the trust holder of the property. The Mexican banks would be the Fiduciary of the property or the trustee. The trustee will take the title of the property and hold it to meet all laws governed by the constitution in Mexico. The trustee is not allowed to sell the property, because you are still the owner. You are the beneficiary of the property, and you hold all rights to the property. The bank and trustee just holds the title of the property, so everything is legal.

There is a fee that you will pay to the Fiduciary Bank for the trustee contract, which is usually somewhere in the region of $500 USD per year and you may also be responsible for any maintenance fees and land taxes. As the beneficiary of the property, you own all rights to the property in the restricted zones, and you can sell the property anytime, remodel, and even rent out the property. The Fiduciary Bank has to follow Mexico’s laws, and they cannot sell the property unless they have written consent by you, the beneficiary and owner.

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