BLOG HOME | TOP Mexico Real Estate LISTINGS |

15 Aug

How Do I Drive My American or Canadian Car Down Into Mexico

Many Americans and Canadians choose to drive down to Mexico for their vacations, or to have a set of wheels for maneuvering while they stay at their Mexico Second home.  A common question that we receive quite often   “How can I get my car down to Mexico?”.

Mexico Car

 

 

I did some researching on this subject, and this is what my report reveals. The Mexico Law has allowed for permits and a regulated process for Americans and Canadians (any Mexican Foreigner) wishing to drive their Mexican foreign owned vehicles south of the border into Mexico.

 

 

GENERAL INFORMATION ON TEMPORARILY IMPORTING A CAR INTO MEXICO

Mexico law does not allow for automobiles to be imported and nationalized into this country if they are less than 10 years of age.

Mexico does allow for nationalization of cars imported over 10 years of age, whereby taxes will need to be paid.  * There may be a new law that will only allow cars made in 1998 to be legally imported.  Cars newer than this date is competition to the manufacturers and cars older than this date may be seen as an environmental and safety hazard. 

Mexico will allow for the TEMPORARY IMPORTATION of automobiles for Americans and Canadians whose importation permits will be valid during the same period as the importer’s tourist visa FMT, or using your resident’s visa, the FM3 or FM2.  LINK TO MEXICO FM3

Maximum amount of time allowed on a FMT  =    6 months
Maximum amount of time allowed on a FM2/3 = 12 months

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED TO TEMPORARILY IMPORT A CAR INTO MEXICO

   

There are basically 2 methods for individual people to bring an automobile into Mexico.  Either driving across from the US border, or having your automobile shipped into Mexico at one of the several Mexican ports.  Each area of entry will have a module or office where you the importer, can register for your FMT tourist documentation  and  fill out the documentation for your temporary automobile permits.  The documentation you bring needs to have the original, and a set of copies to deliver to these offices.  Remember, that first the importer needs to place his personal documentation in order (FMT or FM2 or FM3) before importing his automobile.  The National Institute of Migration has offices on all borders and terminals of entry into Mexico.    

The importer of the automobile must bring (one of the following) to prove citizenship:
1) Mexican foreign passport or Birth Certificate (the Birth Certificates may no longer be allowed due to changes in international policies)
2) Valid drivers license

Afterwards, the importer must present either of the following documents to prove ownership of the automobile.
1) Vehicle Title
2) Valid vehicle registration certificate
3) Invoice
4) Credit contract from the financing institution or an invoice letter with a validity not older than 3 months.  (for automobiles that are not paid for in full)

If you are not the owner of the automobile
1) Family Vehicle: proof of ownership of the family member
Family Relation: proof of relation between owner of the automobile and the importer.  (eg.  Marriage certificate or Birth certificate)
2) Company Vehicle: proof of ownership of the company
 Company employee: proof of work relation employer – employee
    (eg.  Letterhead document stating this fact)
3) Rented Automobile: proof of rental agreement
Authorization: proof of rental company authorizing that automobile be taken out of country. 

MEXICO AUTOMOBILE TEMPORARY IMPORTATION SERVICE FEES

The importer of the automobile must pay a SERVICE FEE with either of these 2 methods. 
A)  CREDIT OR DEBIT CARD

1) credit card must be in the name of the importer
2) card must be valid internationally
3) card must be issued from either USA or from Canada
4) card must be activated to accept charges internationally
5) a charge of $39.60 at General Consulates
a charge of $29.70 at modules at the crossing points

B)   CASH

1) You will only be able to pay cash at the border crossings (double check this fact given that some ports will also accept cash)
2) If you pay cash, another DEPOSIT AMOUNT, will be charged apart from the SERVICE FEES.  The DEPOSIT AMOUNT will be returned to the importer when the importer returns the vehicle to the country of origin.  Also note that the return needs to be realized within the time period allowed on the permit, otherwise the DEPOSIT AMOUNT will be forfeited by the importer.
3) The DEPOSIT AMOUNT is determined according to the automobile’s date of manufacture.
1995 and older = $200 usd
1995 – 1999 = $300 usd
2000 – present = $400 usd

 

MEXICO AUTOMOBILE CROSSING THE BORDER OR PICKING UP YOUR VEHCILE AT THE PORT

 

Always bring the original documentation and at least 2 copies for delivering to the offices.  The automobile will be physically inspected at the border as well as at any port.  It is also normal, especially along any border state, to have several required inspection stations to review your documentation and to verify correct ownership and permits.  When you import the automobile, the officials will give you the permit, as well as a sticker to place within your vehicle for such inspections.

WHO IS ALLOWED TO DRIVE THE TEMPORARY IMPORTED CAR

 

• Mexicans: the importer, his spouse, ascendants, descendants or siblings, only if they have legal residence abroad; a foreigner with the appropriate migratory status, and any other person, as long as the importer travels on the vehicle

• Foreigners: the importer, his spouse, ascendants, descendants or siblings, even if they are not foreigners; foreigners that hold migratory status authorizing them to do so or a national, as long as any of the authorized persons travel on the vehicle

 

THE RETURN TO THE ORIGINAL COUNTRY OPERATION ON A TEMPORARILY IMPORTED CAR INTO MEXICO. 

 

When you leave the country with your Mexico foreign owned vehicle, locate the module for temporary importation to register your automobile of its proper exit.  You will be required to present the vehicle and the temporary import permit.  The officials will then capture the automobile as having returned to the country of origin.  A Return Certificate will then be presented to you for your files.  The DEPOSIT AMOUNT will also be returned as this time. 
NOTES:
On some occasions, you can re-register the automobile for an extended time period without physically taking the vehicle across the border.  This can be done at the nearest module located within Mexico.  This is normally done by first obtaining an extension or renewing your FMT tourist VISA for another 6 months, or by obtaining a renewed  FM2 or FM3 residence card.  You will register your car at the nearest official module, they will capture your car as exported, and they will then deliver another TEMPORARY IMPORT PERMIT based on your new FMT or FM2/3 visa.  Such renewal will require another SERVICE FEE. 
You can obtain insurance on your Mexican Foreign automobile.  These companies will cover your foreign vehicle for the same accidents which can occur in your home countries.   

Click here to read about what items are allowed to cross the border into Mexico within your car.  What Items Allowed to Cross the Border    

 

Thomas Lloyd 
www.TOPmexicorealestate.com
(512)879-6546
Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape

11 Aug

Playa del Carmen Hotel Room Occupany Rates

The director of the Riviera Maya fedeicomiso, David Ruiz Cuevas gave a few words during a breakfast meeting in Playa del Carmen last Friday morning.  Tourism is one of the strongest and most rapidly growing business sectors here in Mexico (Mexico Tourism). 

Playa del Carmen Real Estate Occupancy RatesIt is projected that within 5 years it will become Mexico`s number one revenue source for jobs and incomes, for the country, not just for this state.  Here in Quintana Roo, the government is poised and preparing for this continued boom in the Mexican Caribbean.  The Playa del Carmen real estate market, investors, developers, and many Mexican foreign business people are also closely monitoring the indicators within this industry. 

The director of the Riviera Maya fedeicomiso mentioned that Quintana Roo has created approximately 5 trusts or organization dedicated to the promotion and implusing the tourist activities in the region.  Such a trust exists for Chetumal, Cancun, Isla Mujeres, Cozumel and the Riviera Maya. 

 

 

 

 

The Riviera Maya fedeicomiso started in 1996 whose funds are captured from taxes paid by the hotel rooms.  A portion of the monies are designated for the administration but the majority of the monies go towards the promotion and advertising of this world known tourist destination.  If you are one of the tens of thousands of Mexican foreigners who have invested in Playa del Carmen real estate, this organization and their functions are very important and quite interesting.  Rentals can jump 15 - 25 percentage points or more annually with a succesful marketing campaign from this organization which also plays positively with Playa del Carmen real estate appreciation, if the trends can continue on a constant basis.

The Riviera Maya trust basically promotes the Playa del Carmen market to USA and Canada, to Europe and Asia, and to Mexico and Latin America.  These are the division of the markets which the trust administers.  The organization is in charge of administering and promoting annual events such as the Jazz Festival coming this November. 

Because of the incredible and beautiful natural attractions such as the Caribbean beaches and cenotes, and the strong projected growths of visitors to this area in the 10 years, multi national companies have been investing in record quantities money and construction of mega resorts.  For example, in 1997 there existed approximately 4,000 hotel rooms today, 2008 a record 35,500 rooms exist!  This surpasses the amount in Cancun, and another 2,800 rooms are planned to open by the end of the year!   

This brings up a few questions.  What are the Playa del Carmen trends for the occupany rates and trends for Playa del carmen tourist volumes given this boom in hotel room inventories?  In 2007 the volume of tourists visiting the Riviera Maya zone was 2,800,000 people!  At present count, for 2008, the volume has already passed last years record with 3,000,000 visitor record!  Projection is for the zone to reach 4,000,000 per year within 5 years. 

Will the Cancun airport have the capacity to support such strong projections?  This is why the government is closely supporting and initiating the introduction of a new international airport to the region designated for the Tulum region.  As well, the Cancun airport is also gearing up for all of these visitors by expanding their operations (SEE BLOG).  In my opinion these are some of the main factors that has made the Real Estate market here in the region some of the hottest in the Americas and maybe even some of the strongest markets of the world.  Yet, a few factors that we need to watch closely and which are hampering the growth,  US economy and the oil prices.  Which, opens up opportunities as well,  WRITE TO ME to discuss and learn more of investment potentials during the world downturn and how this has created some opportunities in the Riviera Maya region.   

Thomas Lloyd          www.TOPmexicorealestate.com
(512)879-6546
Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape

08 Aug

Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condos Experiencing Luxury Living with Azulea

Presenting a new pre-construction condo project in Playa del Carmen that has some truly amazing features to offer in comparison to others in town. 

Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condo Azulea

 

Unlike some of the surrounding condo complexes, it is not being promoted as a condo hotel.  Azulea is presented as a comfortable luxury condo get away which has excellent rental potential for those who prefer. Next to an almost brand new high-end hotel, the Mosquito Beach, it’s obvious this area is changing and molding itself into a distinct and classy place.

 

 

 

The location is dynamite, within half a block to the beach and half a block to the famous 5th Ave.

Playa del Carmen Real Estate Azulea Location 

It offers 28 condos in 4 levels (plus rooftop) and 4 commercial spaces at the entrance. They range in size of 1-3 bedrooms, 2 and 3 bathrooms from 60-120 m2 (645-1290 sq ft). The interesting feature is that there is a natural cenote on the property and they will preserve this and build a centre garden around this. 

 

 

 

 

Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condo site

 

What used to be the ‘Tree Tops’ hotel will be converted in something wonderful, with other features such as:

  • Common rooftop pool with specular views of the Caribbean waters, 5th Ave and Cozumel
  • Penthouses have private solariums with plunge pools
  • Gym
  • Spa
  • Elevators
  • Concierge
  • Underground parking

 

Here are some other great amenities included in the units:

  • Bosch appliances throughout (washer/dryer, fridge, stove, even an expresso maching, state of the are oven
  • Wired for multi-media devices (audio and video)
  • Energy saving features (a lighting system by Phillips that reduced energy consumption)
  • A/C central air
  • Local stone and wood interior wall
  • Granite counter tops in kitchen and bathrooms
  • optional furniture packages

Playa del Carmen preconstruction condo interior Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condo showroom

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Another impressive thing is that the project is connected to Stewart Title Riviera and they are currently offering the listed prices with 2-3% of the closing cost included: insurance, closing, notary and escrow services. Keep in mind we quote the overall closing costs to be estimated at 6%. Click here to see Mexico Closing Costs.

They are in the process of breaking ground and expect to complete the project in October 2009.

Act now and get in on the fantastic pre-construction deals!  1 bedrooms starting at $375,000.

Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condo Rendering 1Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condo rendering 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Andy Welbourne          www.TOPmexicorealestate.com
Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape

 

07 Aug

What Items Am I Allowed to Take With Me on my Trip to Mexico?

The majority of the people coming to visit Mexico either arrive by plane or by driving across the border. After filling out the correct documentation for yourself, your family and friends (SEE POST ON WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE NEEDED WHEN TRAVELLING TO MEXICO), your next decision is “choosing the lane to DECLARE ITEMS being imported into Mexico or choose the lane of NO DECLARATION”.

Mexico Customs

 

 

What does this mean?
In the lane of NO DECLARATION, you will be asked to press a button, if the green light turns on, you will pass on through into Mexico, if the red light turns on, a physical inspection will be realized by the customs officer on your luggage and carry on items. The majority of the time, the inspection is quick and efficient, and then you will proceed on into Mexico.

If you choose to DECLARE ITEMS, then please read the last paragraph on how much you will need to pay in duties on your excess items being brought into Mexico.

 

 

 

WHAT ITEMS CAN WE BRING INTO MEXICO WITHOUT PAYING DUTIES?

Basically the items that can fit in your luggage and which are listed below are duty free when travelling into Mexico.

1. Goods for personal use, such as clothing, footwear and personal toiletries and beauty products, as long as they are appropriate for the duration of the trip, including wedding party items.
2. Two photographic cameras or video recorders, 12 rolls of film or videocassettes; photographic material; two cellular telephones or radio phones; a portatil typewriter; an electronic calendar; a portable computer (laptop), notebook, omnibook or similar items; a copier or portable printer; a portable projector, and their accessories.
3. Two sports equipment, four rods, three speedboats with or without sails and their accessories, trophies or recognitions, provided that they can be transported normally and commonly by the passenger, one stair climber and bicycle
4. A portable radio for the recording or reproduction of sound or mixed tapes; or a digital sound reproducer or portable reproducer of compact discs and a portable reproducer of DVD’s, such as a pair of portable speakers, and their accessories.
5. Five laser disks, 10 DVD disks, 30 compact disks (CD) or magnetic tapes (audiocassettes), for the reproduction of sound and five storage devices or memory cards for any electronic equipments.
6. Books, magazines and printed documents.
7. Five toys, —included those that are collectible— and a video game console and videogames.
8. One device that permits measurement of arterial pressure and one for glucose, as well as medications of personal use; in the case of psychotropics the medical prescription should be shown.
9. One set of binoculars and a telescope.
10. Valises, trunks and suitcases necessary for the movement of goods.
11. Passengers over 18 years of age, may introduce a maximum of up to 20 packs of cigarettes, 25 cigars or 200 grams of tobacco and up to three liters of alcoholic beverages, and six liters of wine; in excess of the above, cannot be imported without complying with applicable regulations and restrictions.
12. Baby travel accesories, such as strollers and baby-walkers
13. Two musical instruments and its accessories.
14. A camping tent and camping equipment, as well as their accessories.
15. Handicapped or old travelers may introduce items for personal use, useful to have a better performance of their activities, such as walkers, wheelchairs, crutches and canes.
16. A set of tools including its case, it might have a hand drill, wire cutters, wrenches, dices, screwdrivers, current cables, among others.
17. Beddings, that will be able to include a set of matching sheets and pillowcases, a set of towels, a set of bath, a set of table linen and a set of kitchen.
18. Up to two dogs or cats, maybe introduced as well as their accesories, provided that the corresponding zoosanitary import certificate issued by (SAGARPA) is presented to the customs officials.

What if I Bring an Item That is Not Within the Luggage and Not Outlined in the List Above?

Up to $75 USD per person is permitted on goods, or its equivalent in other currencies. Passengers traveling with family members (spouse and children) may combine their personal exemptions only when arriving together on the same vehicle or same plane.  In order to claim this additional exemption, passengers must have the corresponding commercial invoices or receipts available
If the amount is greater than the $75 exemption permitted yet less than US$3,000, you must pay duties and taxes. There is a flat 15% rate of duties and taxes and you must fill out the payment form intended for it, which is available at the Customs counter.

If the amount of the goods is over the US$3,000, then you must hire the services of a customs broker, who will present the legal forms to pay the duties and taxes (you can ask where to reach one at the Customs Office).

If you are driving your Canadian or American automobile, then check out this POST on HOW TO OBTAIN A MEXICO TEMPORARY IMPORT PERMIT ON VEHICLES.

Thomas Lloyd     www.TOPmexicorealestate.com
Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape

05 Aug

What Documents are Needed When Travelling to Mexico?

Mexico Real Estate Tourist card

 

 

 

Travelling to Mexico can be very memorable, exciting, and adventurous.  But let the adventures start in Mexico and not at the border by informing yourself of the correct documentation and procedures beforehand.

 

 

 

DOCUMENTS NEEDED WHEN ENTERING INTO MEXICO

The Mexico government requires proof of citizenship and a photo i.d. for visitors into Mexico.    A passport is the recommended ID but other documents such as a certified copy of a birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Naturalization Certificate,  or a Certificate of Citizenship will also be allowed by Mexico immigration. Canadian versions of these documents are as well required by Mexico; notarized affidavits must be executed in Canada . The “Canadian Identification Card” is accepted by Mexico as proof of citizenship document as well.  Bring the originals and practice keeping copies on hand.  A tourist card issued by Mexico, better known as the FMT, is the third document needed to travel and visit within Mexico.

PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS IN THE FUTURE 

Mexico does not require a passport, but USA citizens do require this document on re-entry since January of 2007.  This applies only to Americans returning to the states by Air.  For those returning to the states by land, this passport requirement does not start until June of 2009.    

HOW TO GET A MEXICO TOURIST CARD

You can obtain a FMT document from Mexican consulates, Mexican border crossing points and from most Mexican tourism offices.  If travelling by air, the airlines usually hand these formats out during the flight.  This is basically a document where the traveller states his/her purpose of visit to Mexico being as a tourist.  You can request that the quantity of days allowed for the visit to be for a maximum of 180 days.  For those who are planning to travel or work in Mexico for periods longer than 180 days, link here to review the FM3 and FM2 visas.

SAVE YOUR MEXICO TOURIST CARD

Always keep your FMT card well filed while you are travelling in Mexico.  This simple ticket proves your legal presence in Mexico for any type of circumstance and is required when exiting the country.  If you are travelling to Mexico to purchase real estate, the FMT is required when signing any legal documents to prove legal status of a party within the country when entering into contract.  Such contract can be the Promissory Contract or the Purchase Sales agreement.  A good tip is to keep it filed with your passport, or with your other original legal identification documents.  Once you have your documentation in order, then you can prepare for the items you plan to take with you into Mexico, CLICK HERE to see what you need to declare and what you are allowed to take with you. 

 Thomas Lloyd          www.TOPmexicorealestate.com
Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape

 

03 Aug

I a need mortgage in order to purchase in Mexico, When Should I start checking to see if I qualify

Before you start looking for property….This hold true no matter where you are purchasing a property.  Realtors are very busy people and should know that their client is qualified for a mortgage before they start running around showing properties to them.  Getting qualified will also help the Realtor know exactly how much house you can afford.  Once you are qualified, we will issue a letter of acceptance, and put in writing the dollar amount of what you can afford.

So first stop on your house shopping, should be your Mortgage Broker (Doug Payette, Partners Mortgage Services 860-399-7776….Mexico Mortgage Made EASY!!!!!!!!!)

03 Aug

I own a property in Mexico…Can I get money out of it!

Refinancing a property in Mexico is really EASY!  The Mexico property values have exploded and if you are looking to take cash out…..This is a great time…Banks are eager to help with getting that loan on your property and getting out 80% of its value.  Because of the talk of Tulum opening up an airport…Using that money to purchase another property would be a great way to increase your portfolio.

Banks will currently give loans on Condos, Single Family Residence, and Land and Lot

Doug Payette, Partners Mortgage Service 860-399-7776

02 Aug

It’s Official! Construction has Commenced on Blume Condos(Playa del Carmen Preconstruction)

Great news this week! I had a brief meeting this past Friday with Javier, the lead sales representative for Blume condos. Blume Condos are one of the newest and most unique Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condo projects being built here in the little italy zone.

 

 

Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condo Blume  He had some exciting progress to reveal. First off, they have released an incredible video to enhance the viewers concept of the Blume project and really get a feeling for how unique, special and sense of its attributes.  You need to see this video!  CLICK HERE TO SEE Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condo: Blume  VIDEO

 

 

 

Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condo Blume 62nd, we drove over to the Playa del Carmen preconstruction site and he introduced a couple of new things.  Most important point was that machines have already begun working on the digging of the project.  These Condos will be located on the northern part of the city, the area where the expansion is occurring.   

 

 

 

 

Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condo Blume 2

 

The other topic which Javier was excited to  demonstrate was the recently distinguished new beach access at the end of the street which was decided by the municipality and will be permanent. This Playa del CArmen beach access will allow for a quicker and simpler entry to Coco beach for owners of Blume and surrounding area. (THIS PHOTO IS NOT FROM THE CONTSTRUCTION SITE BUT OF THE ACCESS POINT)

 

 

Javier advised that sales have been doing very well. They are about 30% sold at this point and the typical trend during pre-sales phases is the increase of the prices between 5-10%.

Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condo Blume 3

 Playa del Carmen Preconstruction condo blume 7

 

Andy   Welbourne          www.TOPmexicorealestate.com
Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape

 

31 Jul

Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condominium: La Papaya

This afternoon we were invited to see the advancement of a new Playa del Carmen preconstruction condo project.   La Papaya is the newest downtown Playa del Carmen Real Estate project being constructed at the moment.   La papaya is a Mexican fruit, very orange, and also known as Paw Paw in the region.  Follow this link to see a picture of this unique fruit La Papaya.  Strange name and strange color for a condo building but we were pleasently surprised with the progress, the design, and the location of this Mexico preconstruction condo project.  See a La Papaya video interview of this Mexico Preconstruction Condo. 

Playa del Carmen Preconstruction Condo papaya

 

The developer was waiting for us at the main door and gave us a tour of the building.  It is nearly complete, about 3 months and they will begin delivering the finished units.  It is important to note that the Condo Regime is complete which will allow for financing if needed by the buyers.  Mr. Cruz took us along avenida 20 and showed us the commercial lots that were for sale.  CLICK HERE TO SEE VIDEO ON CONSTRUCTION TIMELINE He also pointed out the location of a Walmart store which is a block north and a block east from La Papaya. 

 

 

Playa del Carmen real estate preconstruction papaya 2

 

As we turned the corner from the street, we looked down the lane to see the beautiful Caribbean Ocean about 5 blocks away.  One of the main attractions for tourists are the beaches.  There are a very few amount of cities that have developed alongside the oceanfront such as what can be seen in Playa del Carmen.  We interviewed with Mr. Carlos Cruz and had a very interesting conversation.  PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SEE VIDEO INTERVIEW ON RENTAL POTENTIAL 

 

The unique location of La Papaya being downtown, 1 block from the main square, 2 blocks from an indoor shopping mall and block buster, 3 blocks from 5th avenue and 4 blocks from the beach, make this an ideal investment for a rental property or personal use.  Mr. Cruz pointed out that there is underground parking with a large storeage room for personal items.  ”We also included a beautiful lap pool with an area for lounging during those hot afternoons”  included Carlos.  I was impressed with the comfortable, European freshness feel of the interiors.  The top floors were most memorable distributed on 2 flats.  Top floor had the master bedroom which opened onto a solarium deck which included a chest deep whirlpool / plunge tub.  And yes, there were fantastic views of the Caribbean ocean from the sun roofs.  

Playa del Carmen preconstruction condo el papaya

 

In my opinion, if you have a budget near the $200 - $300 range, and are looking to invest for vacation rental potential, you should visit this project for a closer review or better yet, CLICK HERE TO SEE VIDEO INTERVIEW ON COMMERCIAL SPACE OR TOPMEXICOREALESTATE.COM TO SEE ALL LISTINGS  If you have any additional questions on this Playa del Carmen condo, please contact us by leaving a comment on the post below, or contact us via email or phone.    

Playa del Carmen Preconstruction condo 5   

 

 

Thomas Lloyd         www.TOPmexicorealestate.com
Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape

30 Jul

Mexico Electric Utilities: How to Set Up Your Meter or Change Owner

OK, now you have your Mexico Paradise Real Estate.  You have either received physical possession or have received legal possession or maybe both, and your next challenge… How do you get your Mexican Property Set up with an account in your name at the Electric Company?

 

Mexico Electric expenses
CFE (Comision Federal de Electricidad) is the institution where you will set up your account for electricity.  The electric company here in Mexico is a federal institution and it is not private.  Obviously the first thing you wish to do once you have your Mexico Property is to set up the accounts for electricity, set up the Mexico water accounts, gas, telephone and television.  But the first question;  is the property a new construction where you will be ordering a new meter (new account), or is the property a resale, where you the new owner will be requesting a change of residence owner?

 

 

Mexico Electric Contract; Setting Up a New Meter and Account

Before contracting the Mexico Electric account, the company requires a few items listed below (as listed out by the company):

1)  Electric Cables must exist in the street

2)  The nearest electric pole must be within 35 meters of the meter

3)  The internal electric installation must be complete and safe for the residence

4)  The exterior panel and base for the meter must exist and be properly prepared for insertion of the meter.

The  CFE will require a few documents and charge a fee to set up your new Mexico Property Electrical Account. 

a)     Name of the new resident and address

b)    $502 pesos (2008 second semester fees)**

c)     copy of the new resident owner’s identification (official id, passport)

d)     copy of the of the purchase/sales contract

e)     proof of address for the Mexican property (Developer may have previous electric bill, or phone bill etc)

f)     Phone number     

Once these documents are delivered and fees paid, it will take approximately 8 - 15 days for the Electric Company to visit your Mexico home and connect. 

 

Mexico Electric Contract;  Changing the Registered Owner Name on an Electric Account

If you have purchased a residence that already has an existing meter, you will want to update your name to appear on the Mexico Electric account and bills. 

The electric company will require the following documents and fees.

a)    copy of the purchase / sales contract

b)    copy of the official Identification of the new owner

c)    proof of address for the Mexican property such as recent telephone bill, recent gas bill, or better yet the last electric bill with name of the previous owner.

d)   $300 pesos (2008 second semester fees) **  

*  It is important to ensure that your name is captured completely and as what appears on your official identification and as it appears on your new Mexico Title.  These electric receipts will be documents necessary for filing when you selling your residency.  See the post, Mexico capital gains taxes.

**  The fees charged by the Electric Company may vary from state to state.

 

More Information on Mexico Electric Company

Once you have your electric set up and operating, some other side notes that might be helpful;

 The standard here in Mexico for electricity is 110 volts.  Three prong outlets are not common on older structures, but the newer buildings have these redily available.  Adapters are easy to find in major office supply outlets such as Office Depot and Office Max as well as in Home Depot and Home Mart supply outlets.  It is always wise to buy a surge protector and electrical no-break aparatus for your computers.  

Most meters here in Mexico are either a 5 digit or a 4 digit reading.  The hand will point between two digits, the lesser value of the two digits is what is captured on the bill between readings.

In Mexico, 23% of the total electric consumption is consumed from residences.  Of this amount, 43% is calculated for ilumination purposes. 

Payments can be realized by internet for the electric bills.

 

Beatriz Lozano        www.TOPmexicorealestate.com
Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape