The Difference of Buying a Re-Sale Condo versus a Pre-construction Mexico Condo?

There are many advantages to buying a preconstruction Mexico condo for sale.  It is always advisable however to compare re-sale versus a preconstruction purchase to evaluate your personal needs and your personal financial goals.  Normally a pre-construction project will allow you the opportunity to acquire a property at lower than market value. The following paragraphs list a few factors which you can use as an exercise in order to help you decide if buying a pre-construction condo is right for you.

Do You Know What “Shopping Therapy” Is? People Who Own Cancun Real Estate Do

Do You Know What “Shopping Therapy” Is? People Who Own Cancun Real Estate Do

Have you heard of “Shopping therapy?”

No, this is not a treatment for to get shop-aholics off their addiction; quite the opposite, it’s actually using shopping as a therapy for stress and related problems resulting from the overly busy modern lifestyle.

Anyone who own’s Cancun real estate will know exactly what this is all about.  In addition to offering relaxation through it’s famous turquoise beaches, it also offer the among best variety in modern shopping in this part of the world.

This is true to such an extent that one company has actually begun offering “shopping” tours to Cancun, in which visitors choose from featured hotels, and from there are taken to individualized shopping tours in the city’s most exclusive and luxurious stores.

While this is great for visitors, imagine actually living in Mexico, and enjoying the benefit of these excellent shopping options right on hand, any day, any time you want it!

This goes to show that owning Mexico real estate is much more than just affordable property in a warm climate; in addition to beautiful nature, rich traditions and culture and amazing food, residents can enjoy the best of a modern lifestyle.

Cancun also offers excellent golf courses, modern marina developments and many other ways to enjoy pure relaxation!  It is also home to Mexico’s second most traveled airport which is on its way to becoming the connection hub for this part of the world; this means getting home, or to many other parts of the world is easy and hassle free.

Living in Cancun is all about relaxation; whether it’s lounging on the beach with a martini in your hand, shopping in excellent stores or a sailing on the ocean, you’ll find many ways to relax here, and fully enjoy the area’s warm weather!

John DeRotache, originally from Saint Louis MO., he has been living in Cancun, Mexico for over 16 years. John completed his University studies at St. Louis University in Missouri and their Campus in Madrid, Spain. With a diploma in real estate from a top Mexico University, John comes well prepared to find and help you with your Mexico real estate needs. MexicoRealEstate NETWORK “Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely ! ” (512) 879-6546

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Mexico Condos in Cancun Benefit from World-Class Lifestyle; New Gourmet Restaurant

Mexico Condos in Cancun Benefit from World-Class Lifestyle; New Gourmet Restaurant

In the Mexico real estate market, one key attraction tends to be the number world-class services available within a given area; during the past decade or two, Mexico has excelled in this area.   This is especially true of regions like the Cancun real estate market, where thriving international tourism has brought a large amount of investment, as well as lifestyle related services, such as golf courses, marinas, and international-quality gourmet restaurants.

 

One of the most recent examples of this is the Japanese restaurant, Katsu, which opened with the goal of becoming the best specialty restaurant offering Japanese food and social entertainment in the Mexican Caribbean.  It is located in the Cancun’s Hotel Zone.

The recent grand opening was an event which included key businesspeople from the area, government officials and distinguished personalities of Cancun’s society, as well as special guests such as the Mexican actress Jacqueline Bracamontes.

The restaurant is located on Kukulcan Boulevard at km 13.5, across from Plaza Kukulcan

The Hotel Zone in Cancun is also a favorite area for Americans, Canadians and Europeans buying Mexico condos.  Since the city was created from scratch 40 years ago, the Hotel Zone has come to offer residents many modern and international lifestyle features, ranging from shopping malls to professional golf courses.  The opening of this restaurant is the most recent development in the gourmet food culture which has been growing in the area.

The concept of high-end oriental food in the new restaurant is to be driven by “the passion and dedication in preparing food, customer satisfaction in a relaxed atmosphere … to create a unique food experience in this area,” said Rodolfo González, Director General of the restaurant.

Some of the dishes being offered include Teppanyaki, ceviche, fish strips, butter clams, garlic fish, crispy shrimp and “shabu shabu,” among other Asian specialties.

The restaurant has a capacity of 271 people (121 people in the restaurant and 150 in the bar area).

Mexico Real Estate to Benefit from International Travel Recovery

Mexico Real Estate to Benefit from International Travel Recovery

Mexico real estate is set to benefit from ongoing recovery on world-wide tourism; as the top national destination for U.S. travelers, Mexico will continue to provide real estate owners with excellent and improving tourism infrastructure, one of the key attractions for Americans and Canadians choosing to live in Mexico retirement communties, as well as investors.

Recent data from the U.N.’s World Tourism Organization (WTO) show that while international tourism is still recovering from the 4.2% decline experienced last year under the impact of recession, during the first eight months of this year, the number of international tourists exceeded the peak reached during the same period the year before the crisis, 2008.

According to the report, between January and August 2010 the number of travelers worldwide reached 642 million, about 40 million more than in the same months in 2009 (+7%) and 1 million more than the same period 2008, the record year before the recession.

Mexico belongs to the group of North Central America, which achieved a growth of 9% in tourist arrivals, higher than the world-wide average.

Many of the benefits of living in Mexico’s main real estate destinations for retirees, families and investors are closely tied into the amount of tourism which arrives to this country from the United States, Europe and other parts of the world, including international airports with many inexpensive direct flight options, activities infrastructure, such as golf courses, marinas and “eco-parks.”

Playa del Carmen real estate, for example, has benefited greatly from the services and investment which the area’s strong tourism has brought.  Playa del Carmen property value is expected to continue seeing healthy increase for this reason.  Investors in areas such as this can also find excellent opportunities to generate income from vacation rentals.

As for world-wide statistics, based on current trends, it is expected that international tourist arrivals will increase around 5% or 6% during the whole year. In 2011, growth is expected to continue at a slower pace, around a long-term average of 4%.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546 or through the company’s web site www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely!”

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New Walmart Benefits Playa del Carmen Condos at North End of Town

New Walmart Benefits Playa del Carmen Condos at North End of Town 

Posted: 14 Jan 2011 04:20 PM PST

As of December 3, 2010, Playa del Carmen is officially enjoying service from the city’s second Walmart store. The store is especially convenient for the new Playa del Carmen condo developments at the north end of town.

This second Walmart is located in an area which is being developed as a new city center, called “La Cruz,” with city offices, an upscale outdoor shopping center, a large number of shopping and some nicer residential areas.  A large mall with a supermarket, similar to Walmart, and a large-screen movie theater that plays many movies in English, a casino, and many other shopping options, already exists, about a 2 minute drive from the Walmart.

Mexico Home Owners in Cancun to Benefit from New U.S. Consular Agency

Mexico Home Owners in Cancun to Benefit from New U.S. Consular Agency

Mexico home owners in Cancun and nearby areas are now going to benefit from new U.S. consular services available in this city.  While limited service have already been available, a new consular agency will expand on these, making life for Americans owning Cancun real estate easier.

The new Consular Agency was opened in early November, 2010, at a ceremony headed by Felix Gonzalez, the Governor of the state of Quintana Roo (which includes Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel and Tulum), and Gregory Segas, U.S. Consul in Yucatan Peninsula.

Governor Gonzalez said the opening of the consulate is a sign of confidence of the U.S. Government to the destination as an area offering “security and quiet, where everyone can walk safely.”

The new office also benefits the nearby Playa del Carmen real estate area, which is less than 1 hour south of Cancun.

Formerly, U.S. citizens had to drive to Merida, about 3 hours away for the majority of consular services.  While some services will still be handled in Merida, a growing number will be available in Cancun.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546 or through the company’s web site www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely!” 

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Luxury Lifestyle and Investment in a Playa del Carmen Condo – A Visit to The Fives Resort

Luxury Lifestyle and Investment in a Playa del Carmen Condo – A Visit to The Fives Resort 

Reviewing Playa del Carmen condo sales, I’ve noticed two important trends.  One is towards low-priced properties trading off services for price, while still maintaining quality; the other is towards luxury at its best, offering a complete services for an ideal beachfront lifestyle and high-return potential.

The Fives is one of the best examples of luxury investment in Playa del Carmen real estate.  Last weekend I had the pleasure of visiting, and experiencing, this spectacular new condo-hotel resort.

From the point of view of a vacationer, and tried out, the following features of the resort:

4 High-quality Restaurants, including Japonese, Mediterranean, pizza and pasta, and a breakfast buffet.  Besides excellent, there was also a very well-designed atmosphere.

Very elegant condo units, which can be rented out as one large unit, or each room is also fully equipped to be separate hotel room.  These are among the best I’ve seen in Mexico condos.

3 very large pools, each with a swim-up bar.  One was directly at the patio door of the condo I stayed in.  Another is an infinity pool at the beach.

Mexico Homes Purchased Through 6% Financing? Watch Video

Mexico Homes Purchased Through 6% Financing? Watch Video 

This past week I set up a short video interview with Mr. Azahel Dominguez, who works as a loan officer at a Mexican bank here in Mexico.  I have helped many people from Canada and USA buy Mexico homes with financing and thought I would provide clients a straight forward FAQ VIDEO on the process of obtaining a mortgage here in Mexico.  Most properties that are titled or have the condominium regime in place can be eligible for applying for financing.  Top Mexico real estate agents can advise if the property you are interested in purchasing would be eligible for such financing.

How to Buy Real Estate in Mexico: Selecting Your Property Options

In a couple of posts before, we have discussed several of the steps during a normal process of buying real estate in Mexico.  Starting with interviewing and selecting a Mexico realtor that can best represent you during a real estate transaction and to help you put together a list of qualifying properties.  During your conversations with your realtor, you should share with them all of your dreams, your likes, your lifestyle, budget, and the type of property amongst other items so that he can get to work and help find you good options.  Below are some good steps that you can take to put together a good list of options.

First it is important to understand that finding Mexico real estate options have various more steps involved than what we are accustomed or what we would expect from the normal procedures from our home countries.  You need to realize that some properties

Lack title on the property – There exist some properties in Mexico which do not have the title.  Although there are steps that you as a buyer can realize to manage such a situation and obtain a title at a later date, the sooner you understand the status of a property, the sooner you can decide whether to qualify or disqualify such property from your overall list.

Poor History of Performance from seller or history of quality issues in building. – A building might have been constructed with various problems in the pipes, or the floors, or wiring issues.

Deteriorating neighborhood.  -  Some neighborhoods might have seen their glory days years before and the future demand might be on a different part of the city or community.  It is good to hear the opinions of people who live and work in the area.

So with these pointers…

Step one,
put your realtor to work, Have him send you properties that fulfill your criteria.  Review the options, put them in an order of best to worst and giving any feedback with your realtor of how you rated the properties.

Step two,
search the internet yourself if you have time.  When you find a property that looks interesting, SHARE THIS INFORMATION WITH YOUR REALTOR.  Put your realtor to work and allow him to research, investigate and find the status of the property and if any of the above concerns will continue to qualify or disqualify the property as a good option.

Step three,
allow your partner or your family members to participate with you.  If they will be sharing and enjoying your new Mexican home, it is important to hear their feedback in the properties as well.  They might even bring up questions that might have otherwise been overlooked

In order to help you have an efficient process of buying a property in Mexico, putting together an overall list of property options is recommended.  Having a well experienced realtor from the area is an important key to organizing this agenda along with your selections that are added from your surfing the internet.  Finally getting your partners opinion will add more valuable input in the decision making process and will make the overall purchase process …. More exciting and fun.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally appliedMexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate LicenseS.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546 or through the company’s web sitewww.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK
“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely!”

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Cheap Mexico Beachfront Lots – Even Cheaper than Before!

For many American and Canadian buyers, part of the problem in buying beachfront land is that the prices just seem beyond reach of their budget; Mexico beachfront for sale, which is much better priced that lots on the beach in warm-weather locations in the U.S., presents a solution. Lots can be found in many areas for a broad range of prices; but here at Top Mexico, we’ve gone to the work of finding nice lots in a good location for a super price!

The good news: this cheap Mexico land for saleis now even cheaper!

Imagine a cheap Mexico beachfront lot with the following features:

• 66 feet of virgin beachfront
• natural lagoon
• building permits guaranteed
• connections for water, electricity, phone and high-speed internet
• ideal building areas just back from the beach
• direct access to a federal highway
• short drive from a very well kept up old colonial city
• an international airport and a Walmart in that same city

How much would you think is a good price for a lot like this?  Less than $65,000 USD?  That’s how much they were before.

A new series of lots right next to the original development has just opened, now offering lots for only $45,000!

Prices like this are unheard of for titled beachfront with all connections and close access to modern services. The area is Campeche, and it is Mexico’s up-and-coming beachfront tourism hotspot.  Upscale condo developments, golf courses, a marina, and little tourist towns with beachfront boardwalks are already beginning to appear.

This is an amazing opportunity to own a little piece of paradise on the beach, especially with these new prices.  Contact us to make arrangements to come and see this wonderful area.

Bob McCain has been working in Real Estate in Mexico for over 8 years. He has been very successful in the booming real estate market in Playa del Carmen for the past 7 years and now Campeche has caught his attention. (512) 879-6546

THE TOPMexicoRealEstate.com NETWORK“Mexico’s leading network of specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican properties Safely !”

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Buying Mexico Real Estate – Step #1, Finding Your Team 

When buying Mexico real estate, what is the first step you would take?  Looking for a property?  Finding financing?

Let’s try this question another way; if you were to invest $150,000 in the stock market, what is the first step you would take?  Finding an experienced, reliable broker, of course; this is a large amount of money we’re talking about.

Most of the time, when buying a Mexico property for vacations or retirement, you’ll be spending similar amounts of funds, sometimes considerably more.  Even you are on a smaller budget, looking for a less expensive property, it’s still a good chunk of your savings or income you’re considering.

So, why not apply the same logic as with the stock market?  Buying real estate, especially in a different country with different laws and business culture, is an investment and a risk; it’s very advisable to minimize unnecessary risks as much as possible, and ensure that you are buying safely.

Your Mexico real estate team is the key to this.  Considering this point, your very first step should be to build your team of professionals who will guide you through the process.  The central figure in this team will be your agent.

Your Mexico agent.   Together with the broker of his office, the agent will act as your “point guard,” helping not only to identify properties that fit your criteria, but also to qualify property options, and recruit the remainder of your team.  Take your time in selecting your broker, ask for credentials (degrees, certificates, membership in Mexico’s professional real estate association [AMPI]) and references from past clients.

Notary Public. There distinct differences between a notary public in the U.S. and a notary public in Mexico. In the U.S., a notary public might be a bank clerk, secretary at the office, or practice any other occupation.  In Mexico, the notary public must have a law degree, verifiable experience, and pass a rigorous exam. They are appointed for a lifetime term by the governor of each state.

The notary public is the only authority able to transfer the domain from one person to another. No one else can assure that you own a piece of real estate.  Your agent will be able to refer you to the notary public office, and help you ensure that all your documentation is properly notarized.

While these two are the key figures in your team, others include:

§ Escrow officer
§ Trusted Mexican attorney
§ Mortgage officer from a bank (if a loan is needed)
§ Attorney

Not all are necessary in every case (except the agent and notary public) but your agent will advise you on which professionals you will need to work with, and recommend reliable professionals with whom previous clients have worked.

Once you’ve started forming this team through your agent, you are ready to begin searching for the property you will buy – safely!

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546 or through the company’s web site www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely!” 

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