Archive for the ‘Buying Real Estate in Mexico’ Category

Atlantic Health International Hospital in Mazatlan

Wednesday, March 10th, 2010

With many Americans unable to access or afford quality health care in the United States, medical tourism is on the rise. While medical tourism is not just a North American phenomenon, it is certainly growing rapidly in popularity in the United States as a result of the problems with the current healthcare system. Medical tourism involves traveling to other countries to seek medical services such as surgeries, dental procedures and physical therapy which are available at a fraction of the cost of those same services in the United States.

Atlantic Health International Hospital in Mazatlan

As a result of its proximity to the United States, its lower cost of living and its many beautiful locations, Mexico has become the destination of choice for many American medical tourists. The popularity of Mexico as a place to travel to for medical services has also been further enhanced by the availability of high-quality facilities and highly trained medical personnel. In fact, with the opening of the Atlantic Health International Hospital in Mazatlan, medical tourists in Mexico have access to medical care of exceptional quality.

Atlantic Health International Hospital in Mazatlan

The Atlantic Health International Hospital in Mazatlan is a medical tourism unit and state-of-the-art facility which provides a wide range of surgeries and medical services such as weight loss surgery, hip and knee replacements, hernia repair, radiology services and laboratory services. All of these surgeries and medical procedures at the AHI Hospital in Mazatlan are performed by US board certified medical personnel who maintain active practices in the United States, and the facility is accredited by the Joint Commission International Accreditation.

Atlantic Health International Hospital in Mazatlan

Originally built to the 1994 California building code, the AHI Hospital in Mazatlan recently underwent renovations and features lounges, operating rooms, recovery areas and patient suites. By combining top quality medical care with a resort setting and atmosphere, the AHI Hospital in Mazatlan provides a truly relaxing environment where recovery and quality care are the primary focuses. Yet, even with such excellent services being provided by top physicians, surgeries and other procedures at the AHI Mazatlan Hospital are far more affordable than the same procedures and services in the United States.

Atlantic Health International Hospital in Mazatlan

Typically, medical procedures performed in Mazatlan will cost patients 40 to 60 percent less than what the cost would be in the United States. And that reduction in cost does not come with any sacrifices with respect to the quality of care. On the contrary, many American patients find that they receive better all-around care in Mexico than they do at home. When the excellent standard of care provided by the AHI Mazatlan Hospital is combined with affordability and Mazatlan’s stunning natural environment, it’s easy to understand why Mazatlan medical tourism is becoming a more and more attractive option for many Americans requiring medical care.

Medical Tourism in Mexico

Friday, March 5th, 2010

Mexico has plenty to offer. It is a country with beautiful beaches, an unbeatable climate and economical real estate prices. Mexico, however, has something else to offer as well — affordable health care. With the high cost of medical care in the United States and with so many Americans lacking medical coverage, Mexico’s health care system is becoming more and more attractive to Americans. As a result, medical tourism in Mexico is on the rise, with many Americans becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of crossing the border to seek treatment.

While medical tourism is becoming a worldwide phenomenon, Mexico is the most popular destination for Americans seeking medical care for several reasons. First of all, the proximity of Mexico to the United States is a major factor. Traveling south across the border for a surgical procedure or for a consultation involves relatively short distances and relatively small amounts of time. However, the main reason why more Americans are participating in medical tourism in Mexico has to do with the fact that medical care in Mexico costs far less than medical care in the United States, and yet is generally of excellent quality.

Many Americans who travel to Mexico for necessary or elective medical procedures are pleasantly surprised by the quality of care that they receive. In fact, some Americans who have taken part in medical tourism in Mexico believe that Mexican healthcare emphasizes heart and health as opposed to the monetary emphasis which many believe is the focus of American health care. Yet, even with its excellent quality, Mexican medical care is available at a fraction of the cost of American medical care.

Medical procedures carried out by doctors in Mexico will typically cost one third of what they would cost in the United States. Some procedures, particularly dental procedures, can even cost as little as one fifth of typical American prices. Not surprisingly, these price differences grab the attention of many Americans looking for quality, affordable medical care, including seniors who want to take good care of their health without sacrificing their financial security during their retirement years.

One of the most popular options for Americans with respect to medical tourism in Mexico is the Atlantic Health International Hospital in Mazatlan.

Atlantic Health International Hospital in Mazatlan

This state-of-the-art facility provides high quality care from US Board certified physicians in a resort setting. With luxurious recovery accommodations as well as outstanding all-around care, the AHI Hospital in Mazatlan provides top-quality medical vacations while still offering medical procedures at a fraction of what they would cost in the United States. Services offered at this Mazatlan hospital include plastic surgery, orthopaedic surgery, weight loss surgery, physical therapy and radiology and laboratory services.

Medical Tourism Mazatlan

While a wide range of medical services are available to Americans in Mexico, some of the most common procedures involved in medical tourism include dental procedures as well as surgeries such as knee and hip surgeries. With several high class medical facilities such as the AHI Mazatlan hospital located in the country and with the low cost of both travel and medical care, Mexico is becoming the destination of choice for an increasing number of Americans who are interested in protecting both their health and their finances by becoming involved in medical tourism.

Low Property Taxes Make Mexico Real Estate an Attractive Investment

Saturday, February 27th, 2010

If the great climate, vibrant culture and beautiful natural surroundings were not enough to encourage Americans and Canadians to purchase property in Mexico, the low property taxes on Mexico real estate will likely provide that extra incentive. In fact, many Americans and Canadians are very surprised when they first find out just how low property taxes in Mexico can be. Although property taxes differ from region to region and state to state, they are generally far lower than property taxes in the United States.

Mexico Real Estate Investment

Called predial, Mexico property taxes are locally taxed and have always been low. Even higher priced properties in popular locations, such as Cozumel homes pushing the $1 million mark, often have annual property taxes of just a few hundred dollars. When compared to the average property taxes levied in the United States, the numbers in Mexico tend to be significantly and even surprisingly lower. Also, even though owners of property in Mexico will be required to pay certain additional fees, those costs will generally still amount to far less than the money saved by paying such low rates on property taxes.

Such excellent deals on property taxes mean that Americans and Canadians can find remarkable investment opportunities when it comes to Mexico real estate. Whether potential property buyers are looking for a vacation home, a retirement home, an investment property or a combination of the above, Mexico real estate certainly offers many attractive options. And by allowing property owners to save so much money on property taxes, owning Mexico real estate not only becomes a far more viable option for many Americans and Canadians, it also becomes more enticing.

When the cost savings derived from such low property taxes are considered in combination with the potential appreciation of properties in many regions, it is clear that investing in Mexico real estate can be highly profitable. And the exceptional lifestyle that property owners can enjoy while living or vacationing in Mexico should not be overlooked either. All in all, Mexico’s low property taxes provide one of the main reasons why many Americans and Canadians consider Mexico real estate to be a highly attractive investment.

Affordable Mexican Real Estate for Retired Americans

Wednesday, February 10th, 2010

The number of retirees in the United States is about to explode, with Baby Boomers beginning to reach the age of 65. This means that more people than ever will be transitioning into retirement lifestyles. However, with the rising cost of living in this country and the recent economic woes, many retirees and soon-to-be retirees will be looking for ways to make their savings go further.

Since the retirement lifestyle that many Americans are looking for cannot be found at an affordable cost in the United States, more and more retirees are turning their sights to Mexico. Not only is the cost of living significantly lower in Mexico, the lifestyle and real estate options are very attractive.

mexico real estate retirement

While Mexico offers a fabulous climate, with year-round sunshine in many parts of the country, it also offers everything from relaxation to outdoor and social activities. Golfing and tennis are widely available in Mexican retirement communities as are quality restaurants, art shows and other cultural events. In other words, retirees in Mexico have many options available to keep them engaged and enjoying life.

Yet, while lifestyle is one of the major factors that draw retired Americans to Mexico, affordable real estate also makes the top of the list. While popular retirement destinations such as Lake Chapala and Puerto Vallarta are home to residential resort communities geared specifically toward Americans and Canadians looking for vacation or retirement homes, there are many towns and cities all across Mexico where excellent real estate opportunities can be found.

In fact, many Americans are surprised when they find out just how affordable Mexican real estate really is. From condominiums to detached homes and from beachfront properties to villas in the mountains, there are beautiful and attractive properties to fit many American budgets. And, since interest in Mexican real estate is only expected to grow over the coming years, purchasing property in Mexico is an excellent investment.

For retired Americans who want to make their life savings go as far as possible while still enjoying the high quality and engaging lifestyle that they have dreamt about, Mexico presents the perfect solution. Within easy reach of the United States and with property prices still remaining far lower than those found in the rest of North America, Mexican real estate is proving to be an affordable and highly attractive option for many American retirees.

Photo Credit: Alaskan Dude

El Dorado in Lake Chapala - Discover the land of eternal spring

Monday, January 11th, 2010

Discover the land of eternal spring with a Lake Chapala vacation getaway. Offered by Go Mexico Way, your Lake Chapala getaway will provide you with an unbelievable opportunity to explore beautiful Lake Chapala, Mexico and to discover the region’s vibrant culture, relaxing atmosphere and amazing climate. In fact, Lake Chapala’s climate has been rated as the second best climate in the entire world, which means that the environment provides for wonderful recreational opportunities as well as outdoor fun and relaxation all year round.

Lake Chapala Real Estate

For those who wish to own their own piece of paradise in the land of eternal spring, Lake Chapala’s El Dorado residential project features condominiums and villas which offer the very best of comfort, privacy, style and sophistication. Located above the shores of Lake Chapala, El Dorado condos and villas are perfectly situated for a high standard lifestyle with a blend of natural beauty, old world charm and modern amenities.

By embarking on a Lake Chapala vacation getaway, you will be able to discover for yourself the amazing lifestyle that can be experienced on the shores of Mexico’s largest freshwater lake. Your getaway will consist of two nights and three days accommodation at the spectacular five-star Lakefront Real de Chapala as well as three daily meals, welcome cocktails, entertainment and round-trip Guadalajara Airport transportation.

While staying at Lake Chapala, you will have the chance to explore the El Dorado residential project as well as the nearby town of Ajijic during your guided three-hour tour of the area. You will also have the opportunity to experience the local lifestyle by relaxing and unwinding on the lakeshore, shopping at high quality local boutiques or enjoying outdoor recreational activities such as golfing, hiking and horseback riding. You can also pamper yourself with a massage at the full-service spa or enjoy fine dining at one of the many fabulous restaurants.

In other words, your Lake Chapala getaway will allow you to get a taste of what life is like in this beautiful region of Mexico and to get a firsthand look at the available investment and retirement opportunities at El Dorado. Priced at just $199 per couple, Lake Chapala getaways are specifically designed for couples 40 years of age or older who have an annual income of at least $150,000, and who are interested in investing in Mexico real estate or retiring to this gorgeous location.

With Go Mexico Way acting as your guide and educator, you will be able to learn all that you need to know about the Lake Chapala region and investing in real estate in Mexico. At the same time, you will enjoy an unforgettable vacation getaway while discovering the beauty and joy of living and vacationing in Lake Chapala, Mexico, the land of eternal spring.

Lake Chapala: Resort-Style Residential Project El Dorado

Wednesday, December 23rd, 2009

Old world charm, modern amenities, stunning views and an incredible climate can all be found at El Dorado, a world-class, resort-style residential project. Nestled amongst the Sierra Madre Mountains and situated on the shores of Lake Chapala, Mexico’s largest freshwater lake, the El Dorado condominiums and villas offer a new standard of living and vacationing.

With its sunshine and rich culture, Mexico is the destination of choice for many Canadian and American vacationers as well as retirees looking for a relaxing and rewarding new lifestyle. Ajijic, located in close proximity to Lake Chapala, Jalisco, offers the very best of Mexican life, blending sophisticated style with natural beauty, vibrant culture with a peaceful atmosphere.

El Dorado project

At the El Dorado condos and villas, you can enjoy fresh breezes while overlooking the sparkling waters of Lake Chapala or take advantage of fine dining opportunities, social events and entertainment. The El Dorado condos and villas offer charming, comfortable living spaces which provide optimal privacy and yet are located in close proximity to shopping malls, restaurants, a golf course and, of course, beautiful Lake Chapala.

Developed by Vita Development and presented by Go Mexico Way, a premier concierge company with specialized knowledge and experience in Mexico’s Lake Chapala region, El Dorado features some of Mexico’s most incredible investment opportunities. In order to assist potential investors with the process of purchasing real estate in Mexico, Go Mexico Way acts as an educator and organizer. In this capacity, Go Mexico Way offers comprehensive sales events which provide potential real estate purchasers with all the information they need to purchase property correctly and securely.

Go Mexico Way’s El Dorado sales events involve getaways to Lake Chapala for three days and two nights. Five-star, lakefront accommodation, daily meals and a guided tour of Lake Chapala and the town of Ajijic are just some of what is included in these getaways. While Go Mexico Way’s Lake Chapala getaways provide exciting vacations and an enticing taste of Mexico, they also provide an opportunity to experience Lake Chapala and all that the El Dorado condos and villas have to offer.

By attending an escorted Lake Chapala getaway prior to purchasing property in Mexico, potential homebuyers will be able to get a feel for the region and determine the exact location and type of home that is most suitable for their preferences and lifestyles. Also, as previously mentioned, Go Mexico Way educates potential purchasers so all decisions and transactions can be made confidently and correctly.

With the shimmering waters of Lake Chapala, world-class amenities and sophisticated accommodation, El Dorado is an oasis where you can revitalize your mind, spirit and body. By taking advantage of one of Go Mexico Way’s El Dorado sales events, you can see for yourself just how enchanting life on the shores of Lake Chapala can be.

Discover Lake Chapala - Largest Freshwater Lake in Mexico

Tuesday, November 24th, 2009

Owning a second home is a dream that many people have, and many Canadians and Americans set their sights on Mexico when thinking of an ideal location for a vacation home. However, purchasing a second home on your own may not always be financially feasible. Also, many people who do own a vacation property often feel frustrated that they cannot spend enough time there to get their money’s worth out of the purchase. After all, covering the expense of a mortgage, taxes and maintenance for a home that is used only a few weeks of the year is not necessarily very logical. Fortunately, fractional ownership is becoming more prevalent and allows vacation home purchasers to get the very most out of their money and their second home.

Lake Chapala

Fractional ownership is basically partial ownership of property. However, it’s important not to confuse fractional ownership with time shares. While both options are commonly used with vacation homes and resort properties, time shares involve the purchase of a specific amount of time for use of a property and do not actually transfer any ownership in the property to you. In contrast, with fractional ownership you will enjoy full ownership of the subject property for a certain amount of time each year. For example, fractional ownership opportunities in Lake Chapala, Mexico offer purchasers full ownership of properties for one month periods.

Fractional ownership has several advantages over time share and regular full ownership. While fractional ownership allows you to have a vacation home to go to, you will not have to bear sole responsibility for the property and the expenses that come with it. However, at the same time, you will receive the deed to the property and will be able to sell or gift your share of the property however you choose. Not surprisingly, these characteristics make fractional ownership very attractive to many people considering the purchase of a second home.

For Canadians and Americans who wish to take advantage of fractional ownership to purchase a share of a vacation property in Mexico, there are many great opportunities to consider, particularly in Lake Chapala. Located just 40 minutes from Guadalajara, Lake Chapala is Mexico’s largest freshwater lake and offers an unbeatable climate. With its serene location and its proximity to Guadalajara, Lake Chapala is an ideal location for retirees and vacationers. Best of all, with a Discover Lake Chapala vacation, you can familiarize yourself with the area prior to committing to a purchase of real estate.

Discover Lake Chapala vacations provide an excellent way for potential real estate purchasers to travel to Lake Chapala and spend some time in the region. By getting to know the area in this manner, potential purchasers can decide whether or not Lake Chapala is the right fit for them and, ultimately, can make a real estate purchase feeling more comfortable and confident with the decision. The developments which offer Discover Lake Chapala vacations also offer fractional ownership opportunities as well as an exchange program with other fractional properties around the world. This means that you can enjoy the benefits of owning a vacation property while still being able to enjoy the experience of traveling around the world.

With the many inherent advantages that come with fractional ownership and the excellent benefits provided by Discover Lake Chapala vacations and worldwide exchange programs, purchasing real estate in Mexico is a dream that many more Canadians and Americans will be able to turn into reality. For those who want to purchase a second home in Mexico but have been hesitating due to limited vacation time or financial reasons, now could be the time to consider fractional ownership and to discover Mexico’s beautiful Lake Chapala.

Photo Credit: SanGatiche

Mexican Real Estate - Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds

Thursday, November 12th, 2009

While there are several mistakes that Canadians and Americans commonly make with regards to purchasing Mexican real estate, one of the main mistakes involves believing that one has to choose between traveling and owning real estate. Many Canadians and Americans, particularly those who are retired or who are approaching retirement, believe that it’s a financially wiser decision to travel rather than to buy real estate, or that purchasing property in Mexico will tie them down. However, the fact is that the decision to buy Mexican real estate really does not need to be an either/or decision. On the contrary, it’s very possible for Canadians and Americans to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Mexican Real Estate

To begin with, it’s important to think of purchasing Mexican real estate as an investment rather than simply an expenditure of money. Many regions in Mexico, including beautiful oceanfront communities, currently offer real estate at very affordable prices and for excellent value. Places like Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, Lake Chapala, La Paz and Playa del Carmen have seen price reductions due to similar economic challenges that many American real estate markets are experiencing. Particularly in areas where development is ongoing, such properties can present excellent investment opportunities. As Mexico continues to grow in popularity as a vacation and retirement destination, the value of your property will appreciate so that you will actually make money in the long run. Not only that, in the meantime you will be able to enjoy your Mexican property and the enhanced lifestyle that it provides.

With respect to traveling, purchasing Mexican real estate does not need to put an end to those dreams. In fact, owning real estate in one area of Mexico gives you the opportunity to use your home as a base and explore the many different regions, villages and climates of Mexico. By finding a Mexican real estate market that offers great value, you will be able to spend less on property so you will have money left over for traveling. Moreover, by purchasing real estate in a development or at a resort which offers a homeowner exchange program, you will be able to maintain full ownership of your home or condo while also being able to exchange the use of your home for the use of one at another resort. As there are more than 140 resorts around the world that participate in such programs, your travel opportunities will be far from restricted.

In short, purchasing Mexican real estate does not need to limit your ability to travel and can even provide enhanced travel opportunities. You simply need to look at buying Mexican real estate as an investment opportunity and purchase property in a development that will allow you to make the most of your money while also providing you with the lifestyle and flexibility that you want and need. When you go about things the right way, it’s easy to own Mexican real estate as well as travel so you can enjoy the very best of both worlds.

Photo Credit: Fire Horse Leo

Mexico Real Estate - Avoid Old Misconceptions.

Friday, October 30th, 2009

When buying Mexico real estate, education is vital. If you don’t familiarize yourself with the facts and realities associated with Mexico and its real estate opportunities, you’re likely to end up basing your decision on old misconceptions and outdated opinions of the misinformed. In fact, listening to old misconceptions is one of the top mistakes Canadians and Americans make when thinking about buying Mexico real estate, and it often causes a loss of excellent investment opportunities.

Mexico Real Estate

Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about Mexico and Mexico real estate, particularly in relation to ownership laws, crime and the quality of local infrastructure. For example, many Canadians and Americans believe that Mexican roads are terrible to travel on and that gas stations are few and far between. However, the truth is that the majority of roads in Mexico are very good and that the number of gas stations is certainly more than adequate.

Other old misconceptions that prevent many Canadians and Americans from purchasing property in Mexico are that foreigners can’t own Mexico real estate and that Mexico is a dangerous, crime-ridden country. However, once again, some simple self-education will reveal just how misguided these perceptions are. To begin with, it simply isn’t true that foreigners aren’t able to own real estate in Mexico. Furthermore, the per capita crime rate in Mexico is actually significantly lower than it is in the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada.

In addition to the lack of truth in the above misconceptions, potential buyers of Mexico real estate should also be aware that Mexico has a strong, growing economy and that the Mexican government has demonstrated a commitment to improving infrastructure with the construction of new highways and other projects. It’s also becoming easier for foreigners in Mexico to obtain title insurance and traditional mortgage financing.

Consequently, once you stop listening to the misinformed and learn the real facts, it’s not surprising that Mexico is considered one of the top retirement destinations in the world. With its amazing climate, gorgeous natural surroundings and affordable housing prices, Mexico is not only an excellent place to live, it’s also an excellent place to invest. So to ensure that you don’t miss out on an amazing investment opportunity, listen to the facts and avoid old misconceptions.

Photo Credit: Wonderlane

Mexico Real Estate: How to Buy Property in the Right Place

Friday, October 16th, 2009

In recent years, Mexico has been a real estate hot spot for Canadians and Americans looking for retirement or vacation homes. After a visit to our sunny southern neighbour, many tourists are drawn not only by the good weather but by the culture and pace of life. Of course when we’re on vacation it’s easy to fall in love with a place. We wake up every day and get to enjoy whatever sights and activities suit our mood. There is little stress in life and as a result we can easily be convinced that buying vacation homes in Mexico is a great idea. And it is. Unfortunately, many investors fail to take the time to do the proper research. Buying property in a foreign country is different than buying at home. At home you’re familiar with the communities, amenities, facilities, and housing prices. You either know or can easily access an expert who knows which areas have peaked in prices and which areas offer a great long-term investment. So why, when shopping for homes in a foreign country like Mexico, are buyers willing to spend their savings seemingly at the drop of the hat? Whether you’re mesmerized by the appeal of a beach-side community or you incorrectly conclude that if everybody else is buying it must be a good deal, it’s easy to make mistakes when buying property in Mexico.

mexico_real_estate_blog

First of all, you need to remember that as far as climate is concerned, Mexico offers different risks than most of the States and Canada. Indeed, in Canada, although the weather can be quite cold, destructive weather effects are quite rare. On the other hand, like you would expect in the Southern U.S., Mexico faces its share of inclement and dangerous weather. Hurricanes are of course the main topic of weather discussion and must be considered when purchasing property in Mexico. Mother Nature somehow manages to always have the last laugh. Imagine investing your retirement savings into a Mexico home that’s in a high risk hurricane zone and seeing it destroyed by the devastating effects of a hurricane. There is plenty of research available to help you choose a region of Mexico that is low risk for hurricanes and therefore a more sound investment for your future. Areas like the Baja Peninsula, the west coast of the Gulf of Mexico from Matamoros to Veracruz, and the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula including Playa del Carmen, Cancun, and Cozumel are all high-risk hurricane zones. Granted, these are some of the most popular tourist regions in Mexico but investing in real estate here can certainly present interesting challenges. For the security of your family and your investment it is much more advisable to consider low risk hurricane zones like Villahermosa, Acapulco, or Baja North. If you’ve got your heart set on coastal property, your safest investments will be between Acapulco and Huatulco or the region east of Veracruz on the Gulf of Mexico. Typically speaking, the west coast of Mexico, with Pacific Ocean beaches, tend to be low to medium risk hurricane regions while the east coast with Gulf of Mexico beaches sees more tumultuous weather.

Once you feel confident that hurricanes are not a major issue, you can consider what kind of property suits you best. Many visitors to Mexico stop in regions like Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen and are drawn to the fact that these areas are well-developed, offer excellent amenities, and a wealth of properties to view. On the other hand, being the most well-developed tourist regions in Mexico makes property in these regions among the most expensive in Mexico as well. Moreover, the influx in tourism every winter means that infrastructure is taxed as you’re inundated with people from 4-6 months out of the year. For some people looking to buy in Mexico, this may be exactly what you want. Providing you have the funds, you’re welcome to shop for homes in regions that have the most restaurants, shops, and tourist facilities. However, many people looking to invest in Mexican real estate want to get a better deal. Likewise, some of you would be drawn to a more relaxed environment where you can enjoy some peace and quiet. All the bells and whistles of a big Mexican resort town do nothing to pique your interest. As such, you should consider regions where the tourist boom is just beginning. The towns are friendlier, are more representative of Mexican culture, and provide greater long-term investments.

Perhaps the most important step in your search for Mexican real estate is finding a great representative. A real estate agent with a track record of success will likely have a wealth of knowledge about communities in Mexico and where you will find the biggest bang for your buck. Do the research first and you’ll almost certainly find a home that you can enjoy in Mexico for years to come.