The excitement of looking for a new home can sometimes cloud our thoughts. Making an itinerary for specific wants, needs and architectural design should not be overlooked. Grab a pad and pen and write down a “wish and must have†list. Here is where we make decisions that count. The following tips apply when you’re thinking to retire or spend certain length of time abroad. More specifically, looking to purchase a property in Mexico.
The first step – is to write down all the required features you would like to see in a new home. Not only inside, but outside as well. Do you want a carport, parking space or a garage? Is being close to the beach or certain amenities that a city has to offer an item on your list of must haves? Is a beachfront property in your priorities? Living in a community that you feel comfortable with should be a major consideration. We will talk more about this in further steps.
Having a list will keep you focused. It will stop you from straying or getting distracted by unnecessary amenities during your treacherous search. There will be many obstacles that will tempt you away from your “realistic†goals and budget. This is not to say that there won’t be some deviations to your list. But at least you can stay within a given variance that will be tolerable for you and/or your family to accept.
The second step – I think this step is one of the most important and that is selecting the neighborhood you will be living in and involved with. You can always make a few concessions or changes to your living quarters, but you can’t always add stores, restaurants and/or great neighbors! For example, if you are a walker, then consider being close to the beach or a community that you feel comfortable and/or safe in. If being away from the crowds and wanting more seclusion from the hustle and bustle, then look for a more private area. Think location. Remember that Mexico is all about outdoor living!
The third step – is to make a comparison chart that lists the houses/condos that checked off most or all your wants and needs. Each one will have some of the items you must have and at the same time, lack a few as well. What characteristics can you live with or without? Depending on your budget, and what you can add to it, doing a reasonable remodel can be more affordable than buying a home ready to move in. Construction costs are much less in Mexico than the Unites States.
Sitting down and concentrating on your list of potentials can give you an idea of what your most important points to a home are. Don’t be afraid to add, delete or alter your criteria. People do it all the time. This will also provide ongoing ideas on what you need to do to make it a perfect home. The decision to spend a little more or stay the course will be decided with the options presented during your tour of homes.
The fourth step – could be combined with the fifth as well. When you narrow down your final list of potentials, schedule a time to really walk through them. Look at things more closely. This will include examining cabinet and closet spaces, room dimensions and other possible inconspicuous places you really don’t notice until the paperwork is completed and funds are exchanged. After your second and more serious walk through, go home and compare notes. Discuss with your partner and/or family your findings.
The fifth step – is to go back for a third time, and a fourth if necessary, and now act like an inspector. Run water, flush the toilets, turn light switches on & off, inspect the hot water tank and make sure all the appliances are in good working order. I like to call it kicking the tires. This is very important for the simple fact that after the sale, any repairs or major improvements are at your expense. When buying real estate in a foreign country, there are no guarantees on detailed disclosures. There really aren’t any retributions to go back to the seller and claim false information was provided. Sold “as if†will be the slogan of law.
The sixth step – is how would you change it or would you need to? This expense would have to be figured into your budget. Instinctively, you will want to add a few of your own touches. Will you be satisfied with the décor you choose or will there have to be structural change? All this really needs to be considered before your final commitment is made.
The seventh step – How would you furnish and decorate your new space. This step could blend together with the previous one. Sometimes it can be a bit tough, but step outside your hectic task of finding a home and imagine what will go where. Creating a new space that will feel like home will include how you situate your sofa or where to place your favorite wall hanging and/or a lamp sitting on the end table. Design a layout that will reflect your style and review it in your mind.
Finally – if you are having difficulty choosing between homes, nothing can substitute what you feel in your heart and stomach. It’s like anywhere else, you will know it when you see it! These basic steps will help eliminate time, money and most of all, potential headaches.
If you have any questions regarding real estate in the Riviera Maya, please let us know! We’ll be happy to help you. Remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate… We make it happen!