Mazatlan - Mexico’s Pacific Pearl

July 2nd, 2009

Nestled on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, Mazatlan is aptly nicknamed Mexico’s Pacific Pearl.  Perhaps best known as a popular beach resort, Mazatlan boasts a long stretch of stunning coastline, breathtaking ocean views and fabulous weather.  Situated just to the south of the Tropic of Cancer and just across the water from the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, Mazatlan is home to approximately 500,000 residents and is the second largest coastal city in the country.

mazatlan beachfront real estate

While Mazatlan offers a relaxing, tropical atmosphere, beautiful surroundings and an enticing climate, it also has many other noteworthy characteristics.  With plenty of shops, bars, beach clubs and an array of great cafés and restaurants, Mazatlan is certainly not lacking in convenience and sophistication.  This coastal city is also an excellent place to enjoy the outdoors, whether you prefer a leisurely pace or an active one.  Mazatlan offers world-class sport fishing, scenic walks along the ocean, swimming and surfing.  Also, with majestic palm trees, the sparkling blue ocean and stunning sunsets, it’s easy to understand how this jewel of a Mexican city came to be called the Pacific Pearl.

With so much to offer, it’s not surprising that a growing number of people from the United States and Canada are traveling to Mazatlan to experience its charm and beauty for themselves.  And it’s also not surprising that many of those travelers return on a regular basis after their first visit.  Of course, in addition to the exquisite natural surroundings, climate and atmosphere, there’s another characteristic of Mazatlan that keeps people coming back — its affordability.  And this affordability also makes Mazatlan a prime location for Americans and Canadians to purchase real estate, whether for a vacation home or a permanent home.

Mazatlan Homes

While it’s easy to find rental units within a short distance of the beach in Mazatlan for $500 per month, many people develop such a strong attachment to the area that they prefer to purchase their own property.  And in many cases, they can do so very affordably.  While Mazatlan is divided into several different real estate districts, the average price for a home with two or three bedrooms falls in the range of $150,000 to $200,000.  Even attractive Mazatlan homes with gorgeous views of the ocean can be found for less than $200,000 while beachfront condominiums typically range from approximately $300,000 to more than $400,000.

Whether you want to put down roots in Mazatlan’s main shopping and entertainment district, known as the Golden Zone, or the elegant and architecturally delightful Old Town, the Pacific Pearl has a wide range of affordable real estate options.  Trendy condominiums, hilltop houses and colonial homes in need of restoration can all be found in Mazatlan, so there are great choices for people with all different tastes and preferences.

Mazatlan

In addition to being affordable, Mazatlan is also easily accessible by bus and plane, and is serviced by an international airport with flights to several major American and Mexican cities.  This accessibility further enhances Mazatlan’s attractiveness as a regular vacation destination and is another reason why more and more people are making Mazatlan their destination of choice.  With all that it has to offer, calling Mazatlan home, whether all year round or just for part of each year, allows you to enjoy an unbeatable lifestyle that provides the very best of relaxed resort living and sophistication.

Safe Living in Mexico - Not as Seen on TV

June 18th, 2009

Bullets flying, heads rolling and bodies piling up — that’s what the media would have us believe is an accurate description of the current situation in Mexico.  Understandably, such portrayals have instilled fear in many people, causing them to question whether or not it’s really safe to live in Mexico.  However, as many Americans currently living in Mexico will tell you, the American and Canadian media are often overly broad and extreme in their descriptions of the situation in Mexico, resulting in a significant exaggeration of the present dangers.

Mexico Real Estate

Undeniably, parts of Mexico are experiencing problems with drug-related violence and conflict.  And, yes, sometimes tourists and foreign residents do become victims of crime and violence.  However, those are facts that apply to many countries and regions around the world.  The truth is that terrible things can happen anywhere, whether it’s in Mexico, the United States, Europe or Asia.  That’s simply the unfortunate reality of the world today.

Now, that’s not to say that caution isn’t called for.  There are certain regions of Mexico that are currently not advisable destinations as a result of the violence and other problems they are experiencing.  However, the majority of cities and towns in the country are still just as safe as they ever were.  By paying attention to travel advisories and the advice of knowledgeable travel guides or agents, it’s easy to avoid the more dangerous zones and to find great places to enjoy safe living in Mexico.

Moreover, by using common sense and by following standard advice and warnings that apply to traveling or living in any foreign country, you can enhance your safety and avoid unnecessary dangers.  For example, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings, no matter what country you are in.  Also, avoiding excessive displays of wealth in public and refraining from engaging in illegal activity will also help to keep you safe while in Mexico or anywhere else in the world.

Allowing fear and panic generated by overly broad and exaggerated media descriptions to prevent you from experiencing life in Mexico will cause you to miss out on so many great opportunities and amazing adventures.  Mexico is a country that is full of vibrant culture, stunning beauty and resilient, warm people, and missing out on living in Mexico as a result of misconceptions and unnecessary fears would be a true shame.  So remember, with common sense and awareness as your companions, you can still enjoy everything that Mexico has to offer while keeping yourself safe and out of danger.

The Truth About Safe Living In Mexico

June 12th, 2009

Fear and worry seem to be at the forefront of many people’s lives these days, and perhaps that’s not surprising considering the images and stories that the media bombards us with on a daily basis.  Not only is the world in the midst of economic and environmental crises, it now seems that even the things we like to do to relax, such as vacationing in Mexico, are now fraught with danger.  And this has only been exacerbated by the recent swine flu outbreak and the continuous reports about kidnappings and drug wars.  However, it’s important to keep everything in perspective so you don’t miss out on the wonderful things that life — and Mexico — has to offer.

mexico_beach_street1

The simple truth is that living in Mexico is not nearly as dangerous as the media describes.  Is there violence?  Yes.  Is caution necessary?  Certainly.  But the same can be said of every major American city.  Drug-related deaths occur in Los Angeles on a regular basis and Phoenix has the highest rate of kidnappings in the country.  Yet, many people travel to those destinations all the time without a second thought.

That’s not to say that you shouldn’t pay attention to travel advisories and avoid areas that are hotspots for aggression and violence, but simply by using common sense and caution, you can live or vacation in Mexico as safely as you would in an American city.  Another tip that will help you to stay safe in Mexico or anywhere else in the world is to always listen to your instincts.  If you find yourself in a place or situation that doesn’t feel right, get yourself out.  It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with your surroundings and to know where you’re going before you set out on a trip or excursion.

Simply by following the above advice, you can keep yourself well-protected while soaking up Mexico’s magical culture and beautiful landscape.  So don’t let unnecessary or excessive fear hold you back and keep you from enjoying a fabulous life experience.  Because Mexico, with all of its beauty and charm, has so much to offer that really should not be missed.

Costa Baja Real Estate

April 13th, 2009

Costa Baja Resort is a true hidden treasure of Mexican real estate that is just waiting to be discovered by you. Situated just five minutes from the center of the picturesque town of La Paz in Baja California Sur, Costa Baja offers luxury resort-style living overlooking the exquisite turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez. Consisting of 550 acres of land, Costa Baja is a master-planned residential community offering fantastic real estate opportunities as well as unbeatable amenities and breathtaking natural surroundings.

Costa Baje Real Estate

Costa Baja homes have been specially and carefully designed to blend in with and complement the surrounding natural environment. The community’s Las Colinas residences are hillside homes which are nestled into the landscape and provide a unique harmonization of a rustic atmosphere with contemporary living. Available as one story and two-story residences, Costa Baja’s Las Colinas hillside homes feature warm-colored stone and stucco for a very gentle and pleasing aesthetic effect. Providing luxurious, upscale living and broad sea views, these hillside residences provide a great example of the amazing opportunities that Costa Baja real estate has to offer.

La Scolinas Home

Costa Baja real estate options also include the community’s VistaMar residences. Located within a stone’s throw of a private, sparkling white beach, these Costa Baja homes are set on a bluff and offer magnificent views of turquoise waters. As the most luxurious residences of all Costa Baja real estate, the VistaMar homes are a showcase of elegant architecture, exquisite finishes and modern conveniences. Featuring private terraces, a subterranean garage and floor plans that range in size from 2600 to 4700 square feet, these CostaBaja homes are ideal for relaxing, entertaining guests and simply soaking in the magic of La Paz.

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Homebuyers who purchase their own piece of CostaBaja real estate will get more than just an incredible residence. CostaBaja homes come with a long list of first-class amenities that take luxury living to a whole new level. The community’s golf course, for example, is of world-class quality and is the first Gary Player signature course in all of Mexico. Just as with the residences, CostaBaja’s golf course features an exceptional attention to detail that enhances every experience while making the very most of the beautiful landscape.

Other amenities that owners of CostaBaja real estate have access to include tennis courts and a double-basin marina with 250 slips and 24 hour security. There is also a waterfront sidewalk where CostaBaja real estate owners can leisurely enjoy restaurants, shops, galleries and live music. There are also several excursion companies located in the waterfront village that can serve as a starting point for many unforgettable adventures and experiences.

While Costa Baja real estate offers fabulous upscale living in a location that easily qualifies as a tropical paradise, there’s more to mention. One of the greatest aspects of this master-planned community in La Paz is the fact that it’s very environmentally friendly. One of the core objectives of the community’s development is to protect and preserve the ecosystem and the area’s unique and stunning terrain. Costa Baja homes have been carefully clustered around vegetation and much of the land will remain undeveloped. Through the use of solar panels and a community desalination plant that converts sea water to safe drinking water, CostaBaja provides residents with a high quality, green lifestyle.

Costa Baja Homes

Offering such unique and luxurious qualities in addition to spectacular residences and outstanding amenities, CostaBaja real estate truly allows you to invest in an unparalleled lifestyle for the present and the future. Most certainly, CostaBaja homes should not be overlooked by any potential homebuyer, as they offer the opportunity to discover the endless magic of new adventures and natural beauty while enjoying an upscale lifestyle.

For information contact Jim Donahoe, Director of Sales, 1-866-409-9940  jrdonahoe@ccim.net

Todos Santos Peaceful and Tranquil

March 23rd, 2009

When it comes to romance, charm and exquisite scenery, Todos Santos is unsurpassed. Unlike more well known cities of Baja California Sur such as Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos has not been taken over by glitzy celebrities and aristocrats looking for a Mexican playground. On the contrary, Todos Santos offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere and is the perfect place to relax and absorb some authentic Mexican culture.

Todos Santos Real Estate

Courtesy of Milagro Real Estate, Contact Dale Townsend milagrodale@yahoo.com

Located approximately a one hour drive away from the cities of La Paz and Cabo San Lucas, the Todos Santos real estate market is nestled among the picturesque foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains and has a population of about 6,000 residents. In the past, this city was primarily involved in producing sugar cane. However, since the 1950s, the local economy has switched its focus to farming, ranching and fishing. In recent years, tourism has also added to the Todos Santos economy, yet without becoming an overwhelming and overshadowing force.

The recent restoration and beautiful location of this town have led to some incredible real estate opportunities. As more people have become aware of the Todos Santos real estate market and its amazing potential, property values have increased and continue to rise today. However, properties still remain quite affordable, resulting in exceptional investment opportunities. While Todos Santos housing prices depend on location and property type, half acre lots that are located within easy reach of the beach are typically in the range of $120,000 to $200, 000. Naturally, beachfront properties are more expensive, but can still be found for as little as $300,000.

Todos Santos Realty

Courtesy of Milagro Real Estate Contact Dale Townsend milagrodale@yahoo.com

For house hunters who want to purchase property in a more populated area but well within reach of Todos Santos, La Paz real estate is a great choice. As already mentioned, the La Paz real estate market, which is home to approximately 200,000 people, is located only one hour away from Todos Santos. Situated on the Sea of Cortez, La Paz has many homes and properties with excellent rental and long-term investment potential.

As any Todos Santos resident will attest to, there are numerous reasons why this city is a great place to visit and to settle down, in addition to affordable housing prices and investment opportunities. To begin with, it’s hard to beat the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds Todos Santos real estate. The mountains, foothills and ocean views are truly stunning and magnificent sandy beaches are just a stone’s throw away. The local climate is also fabulous, providing excellent year-round weather.

Todos Santos Homes

Owners of Todos Santos real estate can enjoy the beautiful outdoors in a wide variety of ways, whether by relaxing on the beach, hiking through the foothills or surfing on the rolling waves as they move into shore. The city of Todos Santos also offers many opportunities for experiencing the local Mexican culture. As an artistic community, Todos Santos is home to numerous galleries and restaurants, and also hosts an annual art festival. It is said the Hotel California that the Eagles made famous in their song of the same name is located near Todos Santos.

Todos Santos Real Estate

Courtesy of Milagro Real Estate Contact Dale Townsend milagrodale@yahoo.com

As more and more people become aware of the fantastic Todos Santos real estate market and as the city’s infrastructure continues to grow, property values will continue to appreciate. Providing more affordable prices and a more laid-back atmosphere than Baja California Sur’s larger cities, Todos Santos is a great place to invest in the future and experience the beauty and magic of Mexico.

La Paz Real Estate

March 15th, 2009

The La Paz real estate market offers some of the best opportunities for homebuyers looking for their own piece of Mexican paradise. Located on the picturesque Sea of Cortez, La Paz is the capital of Baja California Sur and is home to more than 200,000 residents. In contrast to the glitzy and glamorous Cabo San Lucas, La Paz offers a more relaxed and authentic Mexican atmosphere and lifestyle. Since celebrities and the super-wealthy tend to flock to Cabo San Lucas, La Paz real estate offers lower average housing prices and greater affordability.

La Paz Bay Real Estate

Snorkeling in La Paz Bay, courtesy of Costa Baja Resort Marina and Golf

Whether house hunters are looking for ocean views or beachfront properties, the La Paz real estate market has many appealing options to choose from. For those looking for a vacation home or an investment property, it’s possible to find attractive properties with good rental potential for as little as $100,000 to $150,000. While the demand for rental properties in La Paz is not as high as it is in nearby Cabo San Lucas, there still is a definite market for weekly rentals in the area. Better yet, La Paz real estate offers incredible long-term growth potential in addition to affordability, so owners of property in this beautiful part of Mexico will likely see their homes appreciate in value in the coming years.

La Paz Real Estate

Subculture on the Malacon, La Paz

For potential homebuyers who are looking for a quieter and even more romantic location for their new home that will still allow them to have easy access to the many amenities and services found in La Paz, the Todos Santos real estate market is a great place to search for properties. Situated within easy reach of La Paz, Todos Santos is a charming, village-like city in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains. Home to approximately 6,000 residents, Todos Santos has seen significant restoration in recent years and offers a variety of different types of attractive yet affordable properties. Homes on the Todos Santos real estate market can be found for as little as $120,000 for half acre lots near the beach while somewhat smaller beachfront properties can be found for as low as $300,000.

La Paz Homes

While La Paz and its surrounding area offer affordability and excellent investment opportunities, it’s also a great place to live for many other reasons. This city has significant infrastructure, including first-class hospitals, an international airport and several universities. La Paz is also known for its vibrant culture and offers many opportunities for both permanent residents and visitors to experience local Mexican customs, culture and festivities.

Owners of La Paz real estate also benefit from the city’s unbeatable location. Stretches of stunning white sand beaches, majestic mountains and the sparkling Sea of Cortez provide La Paz with breathtaking natural beauty that never gets old. These natural surroundings also mean that opportunities for outdoor recreation are abundant. From water sports to hiking and cycling, the possibilities are practically endless for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Costa Baja Real Estate

Marina at Costa Baja Resort and Golf, La Paz

With such an exquisite landscape and so many amazing opportunities available, the La Paz real estate market is truly a gem of Baja California Sur. This city is the perfect place to enjoy the very best of Mexican culture, tropical paradise and investment opportunities. When it comes to long-term property appreciation and an idyllic lifestyle, La Paz is simply the premier choice

Mexico Real Estate - Gulf Coast of Yucatan

March 5th, 2009

Begining about a half hour drive from Merida are some of the most beautful, least populated and developed beaches in Mexico. If you’re interested in Ocean Views, Beach Front property and long strands of white sand beaches then start your search here and let Mitch Keenan mitch@mexintl.com of Mexico International Real Estate help you.

Celestun Beach Property

From Celestun to Progreso to Isla Holbox, Yucatan’s Gulf Coast, also known as The Emerald Coast or The Flamingo Coast, enjoys miles of undeveloped and virgin beachfront. This coast offers more variety and opportunities to budgets large and small, than the more expensive Caribbean coastline on the east side of the peninsula.

This entire coast is populated with wild Pink Flamingos that live, year-round in the lagoons and marshes that frame the beach coasts of the Yucatan Peninsula. You will find numerous small, traditional fishing villages. All have electricity, city water, internet, telecommunications, health clinics, gas stations, restaurants and some simple lodging. Good highways allow for an easy drive to the coast’s largest port, Progreso, where you will find movie theatres, great restaurants and bars, discos, clubs, hospitals, clinics, hotels, banks and shopping.

Mexico Real Estate

In comparison to the Caribbean coast, the Gulf coast of Yucatan has a more “original” feel. The Gulf coast is not geared towards tourism and does not have a touristy or glitzy attitude as is commonly found on the Caribbean coast. The towns along the Gulf coast have been here for years. The have their own unique personality, vibe and soul.

There is something here for everyone!

Progreso, located just 20-miles from Merida, is Southern Mexico’s busiest port. It’s 4-mile pier hums with activity 24-hours a day. Cruise ships dock here and their travelers may choose from a menu of day trips and adventures that include: The Mayan ruins of Uxmal, Xcambo or Dzibilchaltun; a visit to the fabulous markets and architecture of Merida; Cenote diving/swimming; tropical bird watching; sport fishing or just hanging out at the beach restaurants and bars that line Progreso’s Malecon (mile long beach walk).

Playa Beach Real Estate

From Progreso you can travel west to the villages of Chelem, Chuburna and Sisal. All are small beach towns that are populated, year-round, predominantly by fisherman families. But, they are also becoming popular expat retirement communities. People from all corners of the globe, including locals, maintain beach homes in these small pueblos. You can find homes here to fit any budget.

Continuing west around the Peninsula brings you to Celestun. Celestun is also a small, remote fishing village situated on the west coast of the peninsula near the Campeche – Yucatan state border. It is about a 90-minute drive from Merida, on a paved highway that passes through several small towns.

Celestun is known for its Flamingo Reserve, fresh water springs and estuary. There are several decent hotels and restaurants. There are also some beautiful stretches of beach. Celestun is located in an ecological reserve and building on the beach lots outside of the municipal zone can prove to be difficult.

Traveling east from Progreso you will arrive first in Chicxulub Puerto (which has grown together with Progreso – they seem like the same town). Continuing down the highway you will come to Uaymitun (there is a Flamingo observation tower located in Uaymitun), San Benito, San Bruno, Telchac Puerto, San Crisanto, Chabihau, Santa Clara and Dzilam de Bravo. The beach road ends in Dzilam de Bravo.

monumento merida yucatan

The wealthy Yucatecos started building upscale beach homes in Chicxulub and Uaymitun years ago. There are some very beautiful and expensive beach homes in both areas. The last 5-years have witnessed substantial growth of beach homes all the way to Telchac Puerto and beyond.

Generally speaking, the stretch of beach beginning from the east side of Progreso to Telchac Puerto is the pricier beach, populated with many luxurious beach homes. Beach prices are generally higher on this stretch, compared to the beaches on the west side of Progreso.

(Note: Beach property is generally priced by the linear meter of beachfront. You will find this to be true in all parts of Yucatan. If you stumble upon a property being priced by the square meter, square foot or linear foot of beach front, you should be extra cautious about purchasing.)

Mexico Homes

The State of Yucatan recently enacted an environmental protection law “Decreto 801” designed to oversee construction and development on all beaches within the state. It is advisable to make certain that your beach property will fall within the parameters of this law if you are planning to build.

There is an especially deep and high and beautiful beach, located to the west of Chuburna Puerto that falls within the parameters of “Decreto 801”. There are several very nice lots here available for purchase. Please feel free to contact me for more information on these lots or with questions about any of the beach areas in Yucatan.

Mitchell Jay Keenan, CRS
mitch@mexintl.com

Merida The Best kept Secret in Mexico

February 20th, 2009

Merida
Merida is an enchanting city with much to enjoy and little to cause complaint. Approachable and friendly, the citizens find their roots in the Mayan, Spanish, French and Lebanese culture. This is a civilized city where people are civil to one another. Neighbors know each other and often, are related. Family is not just important here, family is everything - as is a sense of community. People belong.It is safe here. Violent crime is practically unheard of. As in any city of million people, there is petty street crime. However, no matter where you go in the city or at what hour, you will not feel intimidation. There is not that gut sinking fear that exist in so many cities. There is an overall gentleness that pervades.
Handguns are not permitted. There is a large police presence - traffic police, city police, tourist police, state police and federal police. This police presence does deter criminal activity. However, with all these police available, there is not an atmosphere of police repression. The police are here FOR you, they are not out to GET you.

Merida Mexico Real Estate

The streets are energized with people at all hours. The city is alive and the citizens feel safe to be on the streets. People walk here. There is a constant flow of activity - buses, bikes, motor scooters, taxis and cars. Occasionally, traffic can be a test of patience in the center city, but it is a testimony to a vibrant community in an ancient city.

Architecturally, Merida is a feast for the eyes. From the grandeur of fabulous French style mansions, to the uncompromising grace of a perfect colonial arch in a small courtyard garden, few places rival Merida in architectural variety and charm. Wander the center city or the outer neighborhoods, and you are delighted when you suddenly stumble upon a turn-of-the-century hacienda, colonial casona, or a charming, worn stone church. There are places here where time literally stands still.

Merida Mexico Homes

Merida offers an abundance of gastronomic delights. With Merida’s excellent location and climate, residents and visitors enjoy a grand variety of year-round tropical fruits and vegetables as well as seafood and meat. Located just a 30-minute drive from the Gulf of Mexico, the local markets and restaurants provide a feast of fresh shellfish, mollusks and fish. Ranches that specialize in pork, poultry and beef surround Merida.
Almost any cuisine is available in Merida — French, Italian, Spanish, Lebanese, Vegetarian, Argentinean, Chinese and Japanese, Thai, Fusion and more! The local Yucatecan cuisine is habit forming. You will find yourself craving “cochinita, lechon, carnitas, barbacoa, pavo relleno, panuchos, salbutes, frijol y puerco and hundreds of fabulous local dishes and tacos. Yummy!

The cultural scene in Merida is top notch! The soul also needs to be fed and Merida serves up a stellar menu of arts, dance, symphony, recitals, poetry readings, theatre, cinema, markets, parks, fairs and bazaars. The government and local residents patronize the arts. Culture is important and art galleries are flourishing. Every night of the week there is something “happening” in centro Merida: Street dances or singing; art openings; wine tasting; music recitals; poetry readings; discussion groups; professional baseball and soccer games; annual festivals, color and fun. Don’t forget - Carnival! Entry fees and tickets are very inexpensive and often are free. In the year 2000, Merida was named the first American Capital of Culture.

Callejonada Mexico
Merida is a vast metropolitan city that seems small. There is something here for everyone and every budget.
This information was provided to me by Mitch Keenan who has been living and working in and around the city of Merida for the last 12 years. For more information on Merida or purchasing homes in Merida, please contact: Mitchell Jay Keenan, CRS mitch@mexintl.com
Mitch is the executive director of Mexico International Real Estate, S de RL de CV. located Merida. His company’s listings can be viewed on our web site under Yucatan, Merida, Progreso, Celestun, Bacalar, Costa Maya and Majahual

YUCATAN - A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE AND VISIT

February 6th, 2009

SOME USEFUL FACTS AND HELPFUL INFORMATION - YUCATAN MEXICO

This information was provided to me by Mitch Keenan, a friend and client that has been living and working in Yucatan in the city of  Merida for the last 12 years. Mitch is the executive director of Mexico International Real Estate, S de RL de CV. located Merida. His company’s listings can be viewed on our web site under Yucatan, Merida, Progreso, Celestun, Bacalar, Costa Maya and Majahual.

White sand beach on the Yucatan Peninsula

White sand beach on the Yucatan Peninsula

WEATHER

The weather in Yucatan is Tropical. Welcome to life in the tropics. It gets hot and it is humid. Hurricanes are common on the Caribbean side of the peninsula but much less so on the Gulf Coast. Tropical weather can be severe. However, the temperature does not get below freezing and it NEVER snows. If you like to garden, you will love the year round growing season!

AFFORDABILITY

You can get a lot of home here very reasonably! Our real estate prices start as low as $40,000.00-usd for a fixer upper on the beach or in Merida. Construction prices are very reasonable, currently running below $80.00-usd per sq. ft. to build new or remodel. Labor wages are low and you can hire domestic help for around $20.00-usd a day. Stretching your dollar is easy!

Yucatan Real Estate
Motivated seller $149,900 USD close to Centro in Merida

HEALTHCARE

Healthcare in Yucatan is on par with the USA, Canada and Europe. There are numerous good and clean hospitals and clinics. Many facilities are “state of the art.” Office visits are inexpensive. Anyone living in Mexico may enroll in the national health program (IMSS). There are numerous well-trained physicians, dentists and clinicians throughout Yucatan. Procedures, medications and treatments are usually much more reasonable here than in other parts of the world.

TRANSPORTATION

It is easy to maneuver throughout the Yucatan. Well-maintained roads intersect most of the peninsula. The “Green Angels” patrol the main highways and provide assistance to travelers. The police also have units designed to help travelers with mechanical problems. You can go anywhere by bus or mini van. Public transportation is inexpensive. Bus routes are well serviced with good frequency. Taxis are also readily available. Taxi fares have recently gotten less expensive in Merida due to new competition. While it is easy to have a car here, it is not essential. Traveling around the Yucatan is easy and affordable!

CRIME

It is safe here! Yucatan has one of the lowest crime rates per capita in Mexico. Violent crime is a rarity. In Merida (Yucatan’s bustling capital city) women walk the city streets at all hours without being intimidated or molested. Guns are prohibited. A strong police presence and a low toleration for crime provides for safe streets. A sense of tranquility and safety pervades the community.

LOCAL ECONOMY

The local economy in the Yucatan is stable and growing. Agriculture, fishing, import/export, construction, construction materials, education, health care, tourism, real estate, legal services, government, retail services and entrepreneurialism provide a constant revenue exchange.

ACCEPTANCE OF FOREIGNERS

There is a large ex-pat community across the Yucatan. People from all corners of the globe find the Yucatan a warm and welcoming place to call home. The “Yucatecan” people kindly embrace most foreigners into their relaxed and friendly way of life.

That said, Mexico is not for everyone. Type-A personalities, impatient types, demanders, whiners, complainers and those who expect Mexico to be like “where they came from”, are going to have a difficult time adjusting here.

If you are reasonably relaxed, not in a hurry, willing to learn a new way of living, socializing and experiencing life, living in Mexico and especially Yucatan can be richly rewarding. Everyday can be an adventure. From tending your tropical garden to exploring Mayan Ruins - from a solitary stroll on a lonely beach to a bustling and exotic market – there is something here for everyone with an open mind, a willingness to learn and a youthful sense of adventure!

MAZATLAN has it ALL

January 6th, 2009

I believe that Mazatlan is the most undervalued beach market in Mexico today. These are some of the reasons:
1) Affordability
2) Access from the West Coast of the U.S.
3) Potential for appreciation
4) Recreational enjoyment – golf-fishing-sailing-water sports- tennis
5) Rental income potential
I’ll do my best to give brief description of the 5 reason:

1) When considering purchase real estate in Mexico, Mazatlan is one of the top opportunities. For many years it has been over looked in the real estate market providing affordable investments; that will no doubt only increase in value. Although beachfront and view property prices have risen over the last 5 years they are still far below the other Mexican resort town property prices and far below U.S. waterfront and view property prices.
2) Mazatlan is one of the most accessible Mexico resort destinations. From the western side of the United States you can travel there by air, bus, or car. There are many cheap and short flights from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Phoenix, Portland, Seattle and Vancouver with daily service available from several airlines.
Airlines that fly between the United States and Mazatlan include the following:
• American Airlines
• Alaska Airlines
• Aeromexico
• Continental Airlines
• Mexicana Airlines
The airport (code MZT) is 17 miles southeast of the hotel and resort area of town
3) The price of beach front or beach view property is lower in Mazatlan than any other major Mexican resort town so it stands to reason that it has more room for appreciation. There are beautiful homes in old town or the central distract that date back to the 1800’s. Many of these have been remodeled and updated. There prices are still far below areas like San Miguel de Allende and Merida where colonial homes from the same period can be found. If you are willing to take the time to look and hire the work done there are still “fixer ups” to be found in the central district that have great potential for appreciation.
4) This small city has a lot to offer. Even before it became a tourist attraction Mazatlan was famous for its superb fishing. Eight fleets of charter boats bring in approximately 8,000 to 9,000 marlin and sailfish each year! Besides the fishing there are many other water attractions such as surfing, swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the beach. Golf has been popular in Mazatlan for many years. The El Cid Golf and Country Club golf course offers 27 holes of golf and has hosted many International golf events. It is uniquely situated on a biological reserve, so keep your eyes open for deer, turtles, fish, exotic birds, and crocodiles. Estrella del Mar is a magnificent18-hole par 72 course that is rated among the top golf courses in the Mexico! Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. this course proves challenging and beautiful views with six of its holes along the beach. It is challenging and beautiful as you hit your approach shots into the onshore sea breeze at an elevated green framed by swaying palm trees with the Pacific Ocean as the back drop.
5) Due to the lower cost of condos and homes it is possible to rent out properties at a fair price, one that many vacationers can afford. Vacation rentals are a great way to help with the cost of up keep, HOA dues and mortgage payments. It is also a good way for potential purchasers to find out if they are ready to live in Mexico without spending a large amount of their savings.

Mazatlan’s top Developer

Impulsa Real Estate in my opinion is the most reliable, responsible builder in the Mazatlan market. They have built and delivered over 20 different projects. Impulsa was founded by Manuel J. Clouthier Del Rincón more than 40 years ago. In 1986 he was candidate for Governor of the State of Sinaloa representing the political party PAN and in 1988 he was the candidate for President of Mexico I have worked with Impulsa Real Estate, have seen their developments in 3 different cities and have heard testimonials about well they were treated and how happy they are with their investments.