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.
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.
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.
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]]>Low Property Taxes Make Mexico Real Estate an Attractive Investment
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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.
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Low Property Taxes Make Mexico Real Estate an Attractive Investment
]]>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.
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
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]]>El Dorado in Lake Chapala - Discover the land of eternal spring
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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.
Post from: Mexico Buyers Guide
El Dorado in Lake Chapala - Discover the land of eternal spring
]]>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.
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.
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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In addition to the historical significance of the region, Tulum benefits from its location on the Mayan Riviera. Just 80 miles south of Cancun, tour buses have been regularly delivering visitors for day trips to the ruins for years. Yet recently, the city is beginning to build a name for itself in its own right. Development in Tulum was initially spurred by the popularity of the archaeological site but the town and hotel district are expanding such that the city is highly respected beyond its link to Mayan cultures. The warm, turquoise waters of the Caribbean meet long stretches of silky white sand and the kinds of ocean adventures associated with Mexican resort towns are on hand. From snorkeling, diving, and parasailing to swimming and kayaking, the welcoming Caribbean Sea awaits you in Tulum. Beyond the coastal attractions throughout the area, you’ll also have the jungles to explore. Fresh water cenotes which connect to underground water ways can be toured for a one-of-a-kind diving experience. Combining these splendid historical artifacts and buildings with the natural beauty that travelers identify with the Mexican Caribbean, Tulum has quickly become a favorite destination for visitors to Mexico.
Finally, as the tourism industry in Tulum has continued to expand, business and infrastructure developments have followed. The city center offers a range of culinary delights, unique markets and shops, and hotels while maintaining a charming small-town feel that is highlighted by its friendly and welcoming citizens. It seems almost shocking that a town which is home to some of the best and most visited Mayan ruins in Mexico as well as a thriving tourist industry has managed to stay so quaint. Nevertheless, in Tulum you’ll find the amenities and activities offered by big name resort towns like Cancun or Puerto Vallarta as well as a vibrant and thriving Mexican culture that holds strongly to its roots.
In recent years, Tulum has become the target of much real estate investment. Hotels, condos, and other housing developments have made their mark and yet Tulum continues along much as it has always been. Because it is a much smaller city which only recently gained attention as a beautiful tourist destination, home buyers can still find some great deals in the area. Retirees and expatriates or even those shopping for a vacation home will certainly be attracted to Tulum’s stunning landscapes and marvelous ruins but also to the relatively inexpensive properties that can be found. Tulum might even be described as one of the best places in Mexico to get a bargain vacation home without sacrificing the beaches, activities, and amenities that have become synonymous with Caribbean coastal resort destinations. Plus, as the region continues to gain more recognition world wide as one of Mexico’s premier tourist spots, home owners can expect to see a very quick return on investment. Regardless of whether you’re looking for a vacation home or a place to retire in peace, Tulum certainly warrants your attention.
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