Top Advice When Buying Real Estate

Top Advice When Buying Real Estate

If you are considering buying real estate in Mexico here is some advice that might make the process a more comfortable one. The buying procedure is a little bit different than that of the United States and Canada. It is not better or worse, it is just different. A good realtor can make it very easy.

Puerto Vallarta is a wonderful place to enjoy retirement or escape snowy winters part time offering the quality of life North Americans are accustomed to. With numerous benefits like friendly people, cultural and adventure activities, endless beaches, world class medical facilities, 8 golf courses and of course the unparalleled quality of the tropical life. The population of Puerto Vallarta is approximately 350,000 inhabitants and this includes an enormous number of US and Canadians many of them property owners.

If you are thinking of making a move, make sure to get to know and check the references of your realtor or development sales agent and his/her broker or legal representative. Your realtor must be an A.M.P.I member which is the Mexican association of professional realtors. Ask him/her the following questions to get to know who you are dealing with and what their knowledge is:

  • Why did you move to the Bay of Banderas?
  • How long have you been practicing real estate in Mexico?
  • Give me five reasons why I should work with you?
  • Can you provide owner references?
  • Describe your work ethic
  • Do you own property in Mexico?

The latter is a good one. If your sales agent owns property in Puerto Vallarta they surely know the ins and outs of the town, know where to go and know what to do. Whether you choose to buy in Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerias, Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town, South Shore, Mismaloya, Hotel Zone, you want an expert who can guide you through every square meter of your new neighborhood.

Although buying property in a foreign country may seem tricky it’s not better or worse, it is just different, so be sure to keep an open mind when dealing with paperwork and bureaucracy.

Villa La Estancia Real Estate

Villa La Estancia Real Estate Riviera Nayarit

Villa La Estancia Real Estate Riviera Nayarit can offer magnificent realty that can become your reality in one of the most loved beach locations in Mexico. Should you wish to enjoy a short stay or a long vacation or even spend the rest of your life in Riviera Nayarit, Villa La Estancia Real Estate offers many special choices for those seeking a home or wanting to invest in the property markets.

Real Estate Riviera Nayarit

You will be able to find many unique real estate opportunities available at Villa La Estancia Real Estate Riviera Nayarit. Located on one of the longest beaches in Banderas Bay, Villa La Estancia can offer full and fractional residences in one of Banderas Bay’s most exclusive districts. You can obtain exclusivity in your real estate which will retain its value for years to come in the future.

Luxury Real Estate at the 5-star Complex

For those looking for something special in life, luxury real estate at the five-star resort is available from Villa La Estancia Real Estate. We cater for all budgets and persuasions and if you require a luxurious penthouse with exceptional views or a delightful condo located on the beach, Villa La Estancia Real Estate Riviera Nayarit can certainly match your needs. Within its large portfolio of available properties, you can opt for full time ownership for those wanting to live in Banderas Bay permanently. A collection of limited edition fractional properties is also available.

Fractional Real Estate in Riviera Nayarit

Villa La Estancia Residences can offer Fractional ownership too which is a real estate option that sits somewhere between the ease of vacation club membership and the privileges of full time ownership. As an owner of fractional Villa La Estancia Real Estate you and the other “partner owners” will share a villa at the resort in Riviera Nayarit, with each owner using the same unit at different times of the year. Fractional ownership at Villa La Estancia Riviera Nayarit is divided into 8-week or 12-week intervals, for life! One of the big bonuses of purchasing fractional Villa La Estancia Real Estate is that when you are you are ready to make Riviera Nayarit your home in the future you can use the equity from your fraction towards buying a full property or upgrading the size of your fractional property.

Deed Real Estate in Riviera Nayarit

As a Villa La Estancia Real Estate investor, whether full or fractional, you benefit from deeded ownership, just like any traditional real estate purchase. This also means you have the right to use our house rental program to rent your residence, either long or short term, sell your property, bequeath it and so on.

If you have any questions or would like to receive further information about Villa Estancias Real Estate in Riviera Nayarit or Cabo San Lucas, leave a comment or contact us .

Villa La Estancia Residences

Is it Time to Downsize?

For retirees “downsizing” is a buzzword, but what does this concept actually mean, and how should someone downsize? Look below at the tips for downsizing and how it could be the next move for you.

What does “downsizing” mean?

“Downsizing” means reducing the size of your current home, and it generally means selling your home and moving to a place that is smaller. However, the common misconception is that downsizing means cheaper; sometimes it is, sometimes it isn’t, with many retirees opting for more luxurious over bigger when downsizing. For many, to downsize means you will liquidate the equity that you currently have in your property to purchase something else that is more suitable to your plans for retirement. Many downsizers like to move to a smaller property that is fancier and more luxurious, while some choose to purchase two cheaper homes and have a second in a different location. Other examples may including downsizing to an apartment that has facilities such as a gym, spa, tennis courts, 24 hour security etc, or choosing to live in a smaller property on a golf course.

What is clear is that downsizing is much more than just moving out of your present home into a new home. There is a lot of research that goes into making the decision, and one must plan ahead and think about what elements are important to them. One thing a downsizer must remember is to think smart with your head, but always follow your heart and gut instincts.

Should you Downsize?

Should you consider downsizing? Not everyone has to downsize, and people downsize for a variety of reasons. Downsizing frequently comes with retirement when children have flown the nest, although the opposite can happen too when you wish to accommodate all the grandchildren. However, for most, the reason to downsize is that your kids have moved out and you are living in a space too large for just you (and your spouse). Maintaining a big property for just one of two people is also an expense that you could better spend on vacations, eating out and joining classes that you wish to enjoy in your retirement. Maybe, you would like a of change scenery or friendship group, or just live out a dream that you always wanted, or to have an easier life, and to travel all over the world.

Forced downsizing

Oftentimes people’s circumstances force them to downsize, because of financial reasons. Some downsizers just want extra cash when they retire, so they sell their property and purchase something cheaper. Sometimes people just have to downsize, because of their health and they have to move to a place that offers support such as a retirement village or home.

    Dos and Don’ts for Downsizing:

  • Always assess your own personal needs not just follow the trend
  • Don’t rush, take your time to find the right property and get the right price for the house you are selling.
  • Think about the type of property that you will need. Do you want a small house, townhouse, apartment with or without stairs, retirement village, or something different?
  • Seek professional advice first, then research the real estate market before you buy or sell.
  • Consider whether you can afford to rent out your first home, using the income to pay for a smaller rent on another property.
  • Look over the new location first and if you can rent first, then do so. It’s always best to ‘try before you buy’ with renting.
  • Make sure that you are close to family, friends, transportation, and places that you would like to go.
  • Always seek financial expert advice to get the most out of your retirement money
  • Never make quick decisions
  • Do not spend all of the money that you get from the sale of your property.
  • Never purchase a property that you feel pressured to buy.
Cruz de Huanacaxtle

Spanish for Riviera Nayarit Residents

In Banderas Bay, the number of snowbirds and residents living here full time has escalated over the years, and many want to learn a little more Spanish than “hola” and “una cerveza/margarita por favor”. Of course, learning basic Spanish will make your Riviera Nayarit home away from home far more enjoyable than you could ever imagine. While speaking Spanish is not essential, it will sure make your life in paradise all the more fulfilling.

At Villa La Estancia Residences, there will be plenty of opportunities for you to practice your Spanish: speak to the bellboys in Spanish everyday, get to know your maid or make a point each day to join in the activities at the hotel and try to speak to the activities team in Spanish. In the meantime, here are some helpful tips for learning Spanish for Riviera Nayarit residents.

Helpful Tips for Learning Spanish in Riviera Nayarit

There are easy ways to learn how to speak Spanish. It just depends on what level of Spanish you would like to speak.

Get Involved

One of the easiest ways to learn to speak Spanish is to get involved in Riviera Nayarit’s local culture. When you are in Mexico, don’t surround yourself with only those friends who speak English, because this is your comfort zone and the only language spoken is English. Instead, why don’t you volunteer with several organizations and charities such as assisting at the Los Mangos library, going to a nursing home to work with the elderly, going to art galleries and art events, or taking a zumba class with the locals rather than hiding out in your bilingual gym. If you do this, then it will force you to speak in Spanish and your Spanish speaking skills will increase.

Don’t Worry About Speaking It Right

The way to learn a foreign language like Spanish is not to worry about speaking it right, but letting yourself get it wrong. As you are starting to speak a second language like Spanish, then don’t worry about feeling silly or stupid when you mix up the tenses. You can try to imitate Speedy Gonzalez to get the accent down. Just let it go of speaking it right and try to use the Spanish words that you actually know over and over. Communicating in Spanish is not always about the grammar, but the way you express yourself, then listen to the person that you are talking to see what they are saying.

Take a Spanish Class

Taking a Spanish class of some sort in the Riviera Nayarit will boost your confidence. You can get a Spanish tutor, join a Spanish class, or buy Spanish learning CD’s. In the Riviera Nayarit, there are several small groups that offer beginner Spanish learning skills, and a smaller group or class is the best place to start, because you will get more attention from the instructor and you can work with other students. If you prefer a private Spanish tutor, then this is the best option, but you have to remember the cost will be more than taking a small group class.

Spanish Tutors in Riviera Nayarit

In Nuevo Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, there are numerous private tutors available. You can post on your Facebook that you are looking for a private tutor or even other forums too. This is a great way to find a private tutor. You can also go to a Spanish school too and ask them to recommend a private tutor. You should beware though, just because someone lives in Mexico and is a native doesn’t mean they are the best person to teach you Spanish. You should always ask for recommendations and references. Another great way to learn is by going for a cup of coffee and just holding a conversation with a Mexican friend.

Speaking spanish and fully embracing the local culture in Riviera Nayarit is just one of the joys of moving to Mexico.

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Realty, Real Estate, Real Property

Realty, Real Estate, Real Property

We all know what “realty,” “real estate” and “real property” 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 “real” comes from the Latin word for “thing”, which has come to refer to real estate property. “Real” property is therefore protected by “real” 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 “personal.” Immovable or real property comes with a deed or title of the land, while movable or personal property doesn’t 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 ‘life tenant’, 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.

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.

Retirement in Riviera Nayarit

Riviera Nayarit: Far More than your Average Retirement Community

There is no doubt that Mexico is the number one choice for those looking to retire in a foreign land. Thriving expat communities that inhabit almost every coastal town, including, Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas and everything in between, take advantage of low cost, laid-back lifestyles that make reaching retirement so much sweeter.

Retirement in Riviera Nayarit
Courtesy

Riviera Nayarit a Retirement Favorite

As the popularity of retiring in a foreign land hits all-time highs, so does the preference for Riviera Nayarit, Mexico’s hottest new destination. With its charming culture, stunning seaside towns and endless expanses of palm-fringed beaches, Riviera Nayarit offers far more than your average retirement community.

Attracting visitors from around the world, Riviera Nayarit’s colorful blend of old Mexican charm and modern luxuries creates the ideal destination for those looking to find their home away from home. In this peaceful haven, one can find the finest restaurants, a myriad of shopping opportunities, and a large variety of recreational activities, including world-class golf, sunset sailing and romantic strolls along the most alluring beaches.

Friendly Faces Grace Your Retirement

While the natural beauty that surrounds the region weighs heavily on one’s decision to make Riviera Nayarit their home, it is the genuine happiness and overall friendly atmosphere that exudes from every corner of the region that makes staying worth the while. At the heart of any great place is its people, and that couldn’t be truer for the residents of each and every town that dots Riviera Nayarit’s coast. From the end of Banderas Bay and beyond, the locals are known for their unwavering hospitality and heartfelt welcomes, making it easy to adapt to such a harmonious lifestyle.

Fractional or Full Time Retirement?

Choosing to live in Riviera Nayarit, even if only for part of the year, is a huge step in the right direction. One can find everything from villas to resort-style condominium complexes that make buying real estate in Mexico hassle free. While purchasing a Mexican home can be quite nerve wracking, it’s the option to buy upscale residences with 5-star resort amenities that draws people to the area. With endless opportunities to buy real estate, it is easy to make the move to a happier, more relaxed lifestyle.

Have you thought about a Try and Buy option? Visit us at Villa La Estancia Residences and see what you think!

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.