A Saturday afternoon, and we all decided to go on a pick nick in a region that has been increasing in attention, the Tulum real estate area.  When you pull into the Tulum pueblo off of highway 307 from Playa del Carmen heading south, the first stoplights give you a choice of turning west towards Coba, or east towards the beach.  This afternoon we took several friends, Stephen from Canada, Richard from D.C., and John from Calgary.   As we drove down the road towards the beach these were some of the comments;    “The new gas station, oxxo stores and the bike paths are very impressive”  ” A lot has changed in a year, this is very nice, look at the rest areas along the bike paths and look at all the people riding down to the beach!”  “Look at the new Chedraui store”

This was the perfect place to buy food and drinks for the pick nick.  What a great selection of food!  This is quite impressive for Tulum.   It really is getting larger with over 5 banks, Bodega Aurrera grocery store also has opened, and many Italian, Argentinian restaurants are located in the downtown zone.

So the new Super market, is located on the road towards the beach.   What is really interesting is that it is right across the street from the new development, Aldea Zama.   Imagine if you are living in a house or say in a new property such as the Real de Zama condos for sale,  the new Chedraui store is close enough you can jump on a bike and ride over to this new grocery store!  And it looks as if everyone is moving around in Tulum on bicycles.

As we arrived to the beach road,  we saw so many bicycles tied up to palm trees, tied up to the road side where people would just park, walk across the dune and get to the beach.  These are some of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches.  They are wide, talky white powder, and the waves are large enough to do body boarding.  I could absolutely imagine living in any of the Tulum condos for sale, jumping on a bike on a week end, peddling down to Chedraui picking up some refreshments, and peddling on down to the beach for the afternoon.  After, riding home to shower off and to prepare for a night on the town….What a life.

We found a place to park the car along side the road and the above, the  picture shows what lay awaiting for us on the other side of the dune!

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

In this brief article, the idea of a “Fideicomiso,” or “Bank Trust,” is briefly discussed.  This bank trust allows non-Mexicans can buy Mexico real estate in the “restricted zones.”  There are 3 main points to cover:

1. If you are buying in the “restricted zone” a bank trust is obligatory (see definitions below)
2. If you are buying outside of the restricted zone, it is not necessary, but possible.
3. It is a perfectly safe way of owning property in Mexico, and offers the full rights of ownership.

Now, let’s define what these concepts actually mean.

The Restricted Zone

The restricted zone is identified and described in the Mexican Constitution, defined by the following limits:

• 50 kilometers (33 miles) along all of the Mexican coastlines
• 100 kilometers (66 miles) along all Mexican borders (United States and Central American countries of Belize and Guatemala)

If you buy Playa del Carmen real estate, for example, which is directly on the coastline, you need to use a Bank Trust.  If you buy Lake Chapala real estate, which is more than 50 km from the coast and more than 100 km from the U.S. border, you do not need to buy through a Bank Trust, and you can own directly, just like a Mexican citizen.

The Bank Trust

According to the current Mexican Constitution, as established in 1917, foreigners could not own land in the Restricted Zone.  However, during the past few decades, the Mexican government realized that there was great potential for drawing investment to the country by allowing foreign ownership in these areas – especially on the beachfront.  For this reason, the government of Mexico set up the system called a “Fideicomiso” (in Spanish) which allows foreigners to own in this area.  The Bank Trust works as follows:

• the property is held in a trust through a Mexican bank
• the bank is the trustee
• the buyer is the beneficiary
• the Bank Trusts are active for 50 years and are renewable after that – do not be confused, this is NOT a “lease”
• a small annual fee must be paid annually to the bank holding the trust
• the buyer designates a substitute beneficiary, who becomes the beneficiary in the case of death (this actually makes inheritance much easier

Because of this last point, some buyers choose to buy through a Bank Trust even when it is not obligatory.  The process of gaining a Bank Trust has become very common and straight forward; it is a perfectly safe form of ownership and American or Canadian buyers should feel comfortable buying in this way.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

After working my entire career in the financial industry…the last 30 as a financial advisor specializing in wealth management and retirement and estate planning, I think I have a good overview from working with so many clients on their retirement plans and dreams.  Now I am dealing with the same issues but mixed in with the Mexico real estate industry.

Unfortunately, retirement and certainly early retirement is only that…a dream.  Largely due to the increasing cost of living in the USA, the retirement goals are becoming cloudy, deferred or in some cases a big question mark.  Health care, living costs, taxes (income and property)…..all making it difficult to feel comfortable about retirement and the financial impact.

Those lucky to be considering retirement now or in the near future at least can feel fairly secure that social security and medicare will be in tact.  But for those late baby boomers or the next generation, the financial discussion about the future of these critical issue are for sure up in the air making retirement planning even more difficult.  Their financial pressure are sure to mount as they start focusing on their later years.

It is becoming more obvious to more and more people these days that the best solution is relocating outside the US and a Mexico retirement seems to be the first choice of many Americans.  They are enjoying a better living on far less dollars.  But I know many people not familiar with retiring to Mexico think it is too much of a hassle….leaving friends and family….different rules and laws….and even the language issue.

But Mexico offers many benefits and advantages for retirees.  In this series of articles we will explore many of them for your consideration as a better alternative of a better retirement lifestyle.  Your quality of life in your Mexico home will be beyond what most people can imagine.   The lower cost of living will allow a more luxurious  lifestyle and less concern on the purse strings.

Money Magazine has reported that over 250,000 Americans are leaving the U.S. every year for good.  So consider the following articles in the 9-part series to better understand the exciting alternative of your very own Mexican casa and a new adventurous retirement south of the border.

Doug Morgan 512-879-6546 www.TOPmexicorealestate.com THE TOP Mexico Real Estate NETWORK; “Mexico’s leading specialists for finding and purchasing Mexican properties safely !”

Among the many attractive options in Mexico real estate, by far the favorite is Mexico beachfront for sale.  Mexico has large amounts of coastline and many areas of long, beautiful beaches.  For this reason, there is also a wide variety of choices in areas to consider for buyers interested beachfront real estate for sale.  The following is an overview of the general regions, giving some examples of famous destinations, and alternatives that may be less known, bet offer good possibilities.

Baja California – The Baja California peninsula is popular because it is so close to the south western area of the United States, and even access by plane offers flights as short as an hour or two to many North American cities.  The area also offers a beautiful combination of desert, mountains and ocean.  Los Cabos and La Paz are among the favorites in the southern part of the Peninsula, while Rosarito near Tijuana and Rocky Point near Arizona offer options a close drive to the U.S. border.

Pacific Coast – Sunsets over wide beaches, mountains and sub-tropical jungle tend to be defining points in the landscape.  Puerto Vallarta, one of the earliest expat communities to form in Mexico, combines these features with its old-town charm and modern city conveniences as the regions’s most popular tourist destination.  Mexico condos for sale overlooking the beach or with views of the mountains and old town are a favorite.

Places like Mazatlan and Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo each offer a distinct combination of the modern and the traditional.  In the south Pacific region, beaches in the state of Oaxaca, like Puerto Escondido, are just beginning to attract tourism, international investment and real estate development.

Yucatan Peninsula – With the creation of Cancun 40 years ago, the Yucatan Peninsula has emerged not only as the most important tourist region in Mexico, but in all of Latin America.  In addition to the modern high-rise lifestyle in Cancun, there is the small-city European atmosphere of Playa del Carmen, the nature and environment focused community of Tulum, the small but close-knit expat communities of Costa Maya to the south, or Progreso on the north shore and the high-potential up-and-coming area of Campeche of the Gulf of Mexico.

Beachfront in Mexico is varied and diverse.  The hard part isn’t finding what you want, but choosing between the excellent options available.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

Check out this incredible Costa Maya real estate listing which has had it’s price slashed for a quick sale.  Originally at US$60,000 this lot has just been reduced to only US$35,000 as the owner must sell before Christmas.

Check out listing: CMY-LT-1701 and email us for further details.

With both commercial and residential usage this property is found on the entrance of Xcalak in a prime location.  Plans for a commercial property with residential use above have been drawn up and are included in the price!  This is a real Mexico real estate TOP real estate deal.

For those of you who have already purchased Costa Maya real estate, property taxes for 2012 paid now have a 25% discount.  Payments can be made at the Mayor’s Office (“Alcaldia”).  If you’re not in Mexico please email me to arrange for property taxes to be paid.

Saludos,

Rebecca Loto is from the United Kingdom and has been traveling and living in Latin America for nearly ten years. Costa Maya has become her home residence in the past 5 years where she and her husband have settled and have become involved and active in various community organizations. Rebecca brings British business ethics and Mexico business experience together to give buyers unparalleled service. 512-879-6546

THE www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely!”

In Mexico since pre-Hispanic times, we remember in a very special way, people close to us who have passed away. November 2nd is known as Dia de Muertos, day of the death, and the cemeteries become very colorful as everyone comes to pay respects to their loved ones by bringing them flowers and their favorite food.

It starts on November 1st in the evening, the graves are decorated with candles, flowers and their favorite foods, first the angels and spirits of the children come down, the candles are lit to help guide them.

Then on November 2nd, the adults come down to be with their family and friends.

The Tulum real estate zone was no exception.   I went by to pay respects to my dear friend Carmela who passed away early this year and I met my friend Ramiro with his family cleaning and decorating the graves of his father and sisters.   They had tamales and beautiful flowers for them.   Music was playing off in a distance around some of the graves.

Guijosa Malu has been working in Real Estate in the areas of Tulum, Akumal, Sian Kaan for nearly 12 years. She is a certified real estate agent and owner/broker of Tulum Premier Properties. (512) 879-6546

THE TOPMexicoRealEstate.com NETWORK
“Mexico’s leading network of specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican properties Safely !”

October was a busy month for the Mexico real estate industry.  The Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI) staged two significant conferences. The first was the annual FORUM of the Mexico City AMPI Section. It is always the largest in the country, with more than 600 attending this year.

Marcelo Ebrard Governor of the Federal District. District delivered the opening address.  A key subject was the new real estate law. “My state will pass legislation before the end of December. The law will be aimed at regularizing the real estate industry to help protect consumers from unscrupulous practices.” (NOTE: D. F. will be the sixth state to have a real estate law with legislation pending in eight other states.) Meanwhile AMPI President Adan Larracillo is having ongoing meetings with the Federal Government on this important initiative.

Eugene Towle, Director of Mexico’s; leading Mexico real estate consulting company, SOFTEC made an impressive presentation. It covered everything from Global Cereal Harvesting and Gross National Product per capita to statistics on Mexico’s automobile and real estate industries. One chart in his presentation showed the growth of the Mexican middle class from 30% in 1996 to 58% in 2006.

The AMPI Conference in the Merida real estate region, in the state of Yucatan was considered by many to be the biggest and best ever. During her speech opening the event, Yucatan Governor, Ivonne Pacheco promised we would enjoy Merida and the state of Yucatan. Her prediction turned out to be true. “Watch for the smiles on the faces of our citizens.” she said. From the waiters at breakfast to the taxi driver going to the airport, always a smile and a pleasant greeting.

The schedule was full of interesting presentations. Two were especially interesting to members doing business in Mexico’s “Restricted Zone.”

A panel that discussed “Doing Business in the Restricted Zone.”  was moderated by Linda Neil of AMPI La Paz/Los Cabos. Panelists were Thomas Lloyd an internet marketing specialist from the Playa del Carmen real estate market, Doug Jones an authority on bank financing from Puerto Vallarta and Victor Loza, President of the AMPI-API State Commission for Baja California.

Jennifer Wiziarde, Manager of Global Networks for the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) and Carlos Fuentes, Regional NAR Coordinator for North and Central America. held Networking sessions. They discussed the benefits of NAR for AMPI members and the illegal use of NAR trademarks. The word REALTOR® is trademarked protected as is the “R” logo with the blue background. AMPI members are eligible to become an International REALTOR® and legally use the word and symbol. Jennifer asked that if anyone sees a violation of the trade mark that a report be sent her and she will turn it over to NAR’s legal department.

Ten new members of the National Advisory Council were elected at the Annual General Assembly. They will serve a two year term replacing outgoing members.  The Advisory Council elected Guillermo Salgado of Cuernavaca as AMPI’s new Vice President.

Guadalajara was selected for the site of the 2012 Conference.

Author John Glaab CIPS is a founding member of AMPI Los Cabos. A Certified International Property Specialist he is active in the National Association of Realtors® Global Business Alliances Group. John was recently appointed as a member of Ampi’s International Relations Committee. for more information (512)-879-6546 THE www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely!”

What is the first key step in buying Mexico real estate safely?  Searching thorough listings? Visiting the area where you want to buy? Researching Mexico law?  Arranging viewings by calling agents on the signs?  Try this: putting together the team of professionals which will prepare you to make the most of your search process and guide you safely through the purchasing process.

This may run contrary to that almost overwhelming eagerness to “get the ball rolling” and start the process quickly (after all, we do fall in love with Mexico quickly!)  However, not preparing yourself properly can leave the door open for problems later on – unnecessary complications, headaches and bureaucracy or something as simple as missing out on the property best for you.

For this reason it’s best to take the time at the beginning of your search process and start forming your team.  The following are the key steps in this process:

1. Find your Mexico agent. The right agent will be the central figure in guiding you through the search and purchasing processes, as well as finding and forming the rest of your team.  In short, the traits you will want to look for are experience, qualifications and a good gut feeling (all three are important, and you may be causing yourself troubles by overlooking any of them.)  Your agent’s office should be a part of AMPI, the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals.  This should be the part that you take your time doing, making sure you know you have the right agent and that you feel good with them.

1. Begin your search process. While you form the rest of your team (see point 3 below) you can begin to search for real estate with the help of your agent with confidence.

1. Complete the rest of your team. This will include a lawyer, notary public, an escrow service provider, title research company and a mortgage broker or bank.  The last two depend on each given purchase, but your agent will be able to point out which services you need, and suggest professionals with whom past clients have worked, and who have given excellent service.

While excellent resources exist online to research legal and real estate information, this information will be best understood and applied by someone who has done so dozens of times.  Researching online information can be a good way of “measuring” your agent’s professionalism while you are choosing, but in the end you will need to rely on the professional agent you choose to guide you through these areas.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

When buying Mexico real estate, escrow is used to hold funds, have them in custody and disburse the same in accordance with the previous instructions provided by Purchaser and Seller. This way both parties are fully protected.

The following are some points to remember about escrow:

• Some experts advise that NO funds are given directly to any seller until the property has been legally checked and a purchase and sales agreement is drafted by a real estate attorney and executed by all parties.
• The case of pre-construction Mexico condos for sale, or new development properties, many developers receive the deposit and following payments directly and most do not use escrow services. In this case it is important to really do your due diligence and, better yet, contract an attorney to represent you for the purchase transaction, before giving any deposit monies.
• Your Mexico broker can also advise you of the reputation of the developer in question.
• In the case of a resale property, once an offer has been agreed upon by all parties, an earnest money deposit is placed in escrow with a reputable title company, such as Stewart Title or The Settlement Company.
• These companies will hold the escrow funds (which are 10% of the purchase price for the earnest money deposit and the subsequent 90% funds for the balance of the purchase) until the closing.
• At closing the escrow company will disburse these funds according to a mutually agreed upon letter of disbursement signed by both the buyer and the seller.

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Preconstruction Condos

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When beginning the search and purchasing processes, be sure to discuss the issue of escrow with your broker.  Be sure to ask:

• If the seller you are considering will accept escrow
• If the developer is of reliable reputation if they will not except escrow
• What company offers professional escrow services

Escrow is an important tool in the purchase process protecting both buyer and seller.  Be sure to be informed about your options and make decisions based on sound advice and experience.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

I was invited out to visit a new condo project in the Tulum real estate region last week that are being marketed for less than $150,000.   The property is located inside the Bahia Principe real estate grounds, a gated community that has a golf course with club house and beach area.  I have been driving by this incredible entrance for many months and just have not had the time to stop in to see the progress.  Amazing!

This is a Trent Jones designed golf course and you definitely need to see the video below to get a better idea of the beauty of these surroundings.   At the end of the video, check out the 12 coatis running across the golf cart road to the beach.  Imagine living in this golf course community where you can jump in your golf cart to ride down for an afternoon on the Caribbean beaches!  Now that’s what I call  NICE.

Have you been to the beaches in southern Riviera Maya?    one word     wow.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

The word, REALTOR® has international trade mark protection through the National Association of Realtors®. (NAR) It is used by 1.2 million practitioners in the United States and by international REALTORS® in more than 56 countries, who are affiliated with NAR including the Mexico real estate region. Members of the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI) are able to become   INTERNATIONAL REALTORS®

In recent months I have heard Mexican government officials at both state and national levels refer to “coyataje.” The closest I can come to an English translations would be “coyote.” A federal government official used the word with reference to the real estate industry being plagued by “too much corruption and fraud.” A coyote is someone selling Mexico properties without an office and without having the proper training in the business and/or dealing outside any code of ethics. The person can be anything from a bar tender to a taxi driver and (even part of a company having a license to do business in Mexico.) Having a business license does NOT make one a REALTOR® again a word with trade mark protection.

Several years ago as a result of a scandal where a person fled the country with buyer’s funds, the AMPI Section in Los Cabos, Baja .California .Sur. came up with a set of Rules. The rules were created as a guide as to how to purchase real estate SAFELY in Mexico. Rule # 1 is “Be sure the agent is a member of AMPI.”

We often see signs “Trato Directo.” This is where a Seller decides to sell without the aid of a professional. Earlier this year a federal government official referred to this as “peligros.” (Dangerous.) ” It is a minefield for those without proper training and knowledge of Mexican law.

So bottom line, when buying or selling property in Mexico it is essential to work with a REALTOR®. Otherwise it is Caveat Emptor (Buyer beware.)

Author John Glaab CIPS is a founding member of AMPI Los Cabos. A Certified International Property Specialist he is active in the National Association of Realtors® Global Business Alliances Group. John was recently appointed as a member of Ampi’s International Relations Committee. for more information (512)-879-6546 THE www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely!”

One of the most important points to check when choosing your Mexico real estate office is qualifications.  While there are no legal requirements in most of the country for someone to work in real estate, Mexico agents can choose to gain qualifications to better serve their clients; it is to your advantage that your agent’s office holds these kinds of qualifications.

Some of the key qualifications to check include:

ü      Membership in AMPI – AMPI (Mexican Association for Real Estate Professionals) is Mexico’s only professional real estate association.  They promote professionalism, business ethics and training.  It is important that the real estate office you choose is affiliated with AMPI.

ü      Degrees – In 2009, Mexico created a new university degree in Mexico real estate.  Because it is so new, few agents hold this degree, but it is an asset.  Otherwise, degrees in business and related fields from the U.S. or Canada speak well of the level of professionalism.

ü      Certificates & Other Training – There are also certificates and other training programs, offered by AMPI as well as various educational institutions.  These indicate that an agent is interested in keeping up to date with the most recent and relevant changes in the industry.

ü      Experience – While this is not an official qualification, per se, years of experience searching for and selling Mexico homes for sale can count for a lot, especially combined with the qualifications listed above; an experienced broker will know how to apply the knowledge gained from courses, etc.

It is important to remember that the specific agent helping you in your search process does not necessarily have to hold these qualifications, but they should be working under a broker who does.  Be sure to ask your agent about their office’s qualifications – preferably before you start the search process.

TOPMexicoRealEstate.com; Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

More than 600 Mexico real estate agents who are members of the Mexican Association of Mexican Realtors (AMPI) from Western Mexico met recently in Guadalajara. They came to attend the twenty first annual Forum of the AMPI Section in that city.

The “Key Note” address was given by Andres Oppenheimer from the Miami Herald. His column is syndicated and appears in more than seventy newspapers mostly in the United States, but as well in Argentina. Andres is a Pulitzer Prize winner. He is the author of the bestselling book, “Bordering on Chaos.”

Alonso Ulloa Velez, Secretary of the Economy and Promotion in Jalisco opened the FORO. He made a special reference to work being done on a Mexico real estate licensing law in the Jalisco Congress. Deputy Mariana Fernandez is heading a Commission of the Economic Development Department. It had its first meeting on August 31st. A major objective will be to eliminate “coyotes” (non professionals) from performing   legal real estate transactions. NOTE: While a handful of states now have licensing, meetings between AMPI President, Adan Larracilla and the Chamber of Deputies at the federal level are ongoing. The most recent work session was August 5th.

Andres Oppenheimer touched on several economic and social themes. He said that Mexico can take advantage of new high salaries in China to increase activity in the Mexican manufacturing sector. He suggested that Mexico is in a great position to promote, medical tourism.   “Every day, there are more than one million Americans looking outside the U.S.A, for medical services.” he said. “Forty six million citizens are without medical insurance. “ He added that Mexico should accredit the largest number of hospitals possible to satisfy certified organizations in the U.S. Mr. Oppenheimer told the FORO that in order for Mexico to be competitive with China, India, Brazil and other Latin American countries, a new emphasis should be placed on educating engineers and scientists.

Other sessions included a panel on the future of real estate in Mexico, a presentation on creativity and innovation, and architecture in Mexico. A warm reception was given to Dr. Carlos Andrade Garin, Director General of the organizing committee for the sixteenth edition of the Pan American Games. They will take place in Guadalajara from October 14 to 30th in Guadalajara. In addition to athletic activities there will be 451 cultural events. The media center, which has almost been completed, will be larger than the one for the Olympic Games held in Beijing. Dr. Garin’s presentation received a standing ovation.

Attendees at the FORO were invited to attend AMPI’s Fortieth Annual Conference and Annual Meeting. It will be held in Merida, Yucatan from October. 3 to 7th.

Author John Glaab CIPS is a founding member of AMPI Los Cabos. A Certified International Property Specialist he is active in the National Association of Realtors® Global Business Alliances Group. John was recently appointed as a member of Ampi’s International Relations Committee. for more information (512)-879-6546 THE www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely!”

When planning your Mexico real estate purchase, the most important step in ensuring you find the most ideal home and that the purchasing process is carried out safely is to select a qualified, experienced and reliable Mexico agent.  One of several steps you should carry out when you choosing your agent is an interview.  The following are some questions you could ask and what you are looking for by asking these questions.

• What qualifications do you have as a real estate agent? – This question is important because in most of Mexico there are no laws defining qualifications for real estate agents.  There are degrees, certificates and training courses available, as well as membership in the Mexican Association for Real Estate Professionals.  While the agent you work with directly may not need to have these, the overseeing broker of their office should.
• How will you go about finding the best property for my needs? – You want to find out how thorough their method of searching Mexico homes for sale and other properties is, and how they take your needs and preferences into account.
• Will you consider all properties available? – What you want to ensure is that your agent is one that will search thoroughly and not present you only with a limited set of properties.
• What resources will you use to find properties for sale? Besides giving you more of an idea of how thorough their search will be, it will also give you an idea of how well they know the area.
• How much experience do you have in the real estate industry? – Again, the broker of the office should have solid experience.  If your agent is relatively new to the industry, this may not be a problem if they’re working in an office that can back them with solid experience and qualifications.  Honesty is really important, too!
• How will you use this experience to help me? – Experience, qualifications and knowledge only help if they’re used for your best interest!
• What would you do if you don’t have the information I need? – Again, honesty is important.  Having an agent who claims to know everything is less advantageous than having an agent who acknowledges their limitations and knows where to go when they need to find out more, or refer you to a specialized expert (in law, banking, etc.)

You may think of other questions as well; just remember, when selecting your agent, you want to work with someone who has access to the information and resources needed, and will use those for your benefit.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

Mexico mortgages have been reducing slowly over the past several years.  Nearly five years ago, interest rates down in Mexico were above 12%, today it is completely different.  In the video interview below, we discuss several important issues for non-Mexicans wanting to take out a loan on their Mexico real estate purchase.

If you want to chat a little more about how to set up the process of getting a Mexico mortgage,  just give us a call.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

When you hire a Mexico agent to work with in your Mexico real estate search and purchasing process, you are hiring a professional to represent you and carry out certain duties for you.  You should have clear expectations of what they can and should do for you, and what they won’t.

The following are items which you should expect from your agent:

• Professionalism – Your agent should be qualified to work as a real estate agent.  This is not required in most of Mexico, but training, certificates and even degrees are available.  There is also a professional association (AMPI.) Expecting these is certainly not too much to ask.

• Honesty – You can and should expect your agent to be forthcoming with you about the knowledge they have of properties, opinions and their own experience and credentials.  It is better to work with an agent who honestly tells you, “I’m not sure about that, but I can find out,” than one who knowingly provides misleading information.

• Knowledge of the Market – Your agent should know the area, what kind of Mexico homes for sale are available, typical prices, etc. and advise you on these items.

• Commitment to Your Needs – Since you are hiring an agent to represent your needs, they should use their knowledge to focus on your needs and preferences during the search process and represent your best interest during the negotiation process.

• Thorough Property Search – Your buyer’s agent should search all suitable properties and present you with the best of these options.  They should not be limited by a commitment to selling a certain property or in a certain complex, etc.  If the properties they show you are not the right ones for you, they should continue to search for your ideal property free of conflicting obligations.

• Good Communication – Since many of the preliminary steps in searching will be long-distance, Mexico agents should be efficient and effective in communicating quickly and getting you the information you need.  Quick replies by e-mail or by phone can be expected – even if they don’t have the information yet, simply to let you know what stage the process is at.  If there are any changes relevant to your search or purchasing process, you should find out quickly.

• Commitment to Service – In addition to good communication, the right agent will help arrange viewings, etc. in a way that will make things a little easier for you coming from a distance.  For example, if you head down on a little vacation or just to view properties, those dedicated to service will pick you up at your hotel to take you on your property tours.

• Knowledge of the Purchasing Process – Your agent, or the broker of the office, should have a thorough knowledge of the purchasing and closing process, and guide you through this, safely, minimizing unnecessary risks.

• Suggestions for the Services of other Professionals – Your agent’s job is to know the area, help you find a good, suitable property and to guide you through the purchasing process.  Certain tasks, however, should be and even must be carried out by other qualified professionals.  What you can expect of your agent is that they advise you when you need the services of others, and suggest experienced professionals.

The following are items which you shouldn’t expect of your agent:

• Know Everything – As mentioned above, it’s actually better that they acknowledge it when they don’t know.  What you can expect is that they will do their best to find out, or point you to someone who does.

• To Advise You on Your Budget – Again, a bank can advise on the possibility of financing, etc., but it will be your job to determine what is realistically within your budget, and advise your agent.  You can expect them to find you the most suitable properties within this budget.  It can also be helpful to you that they make suggestions if there is a property which is slightly above the budget you told them and has exceptional value, or if there is an excellent deal for less.  Your agent should also advise you on probable closing costs so you can plan for this.

• To Do the Work of Other Professionals – If an agent or broker has experience and qualifications to guide buyers through a certain part of the process that is normally not within their tasks (i.e. your agent is also a certified lawyer,) this can be helpful to you; however, if they don’t, it’s better for you that they recommend someone who does.

While it is not good to expect too much, it is also not good to expect too little.  If you don’t feel your agent is meeting your expectations, talk with them; remember your gut feeling is an important factor in being sure that you are working with the right people.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

When choosing your Mexico real estate agent, it is important for you to know the difference between a buyer’s agent and a seller’s agent, their roles, and how this affects you as a buyer.

Very briefly, a seller’s agent is the one who advertises a property on behalf of a seller and represents the seller’s interest during the negotiation and transaction.  The buyer’s agent is the one who helps the buyer find an ideal property and represents their needs during the negotiation and transaction.

When searching for and buying your ideal Mexico home for sale, by Mexican law, it is possible that the same agent carry out both functions. So, when you see a for sale sign on a property, you contact the agent, who is the seller’s agent.  You negotiate a price, close the deal, and all is good right?

Unfortunately, there are some potential complications.  Consider this; the seller’s agent is looking out for the seller’s best interest.  What is the seller looking for in the sales price? The same thing you look for when you sell a property – the highest reasonable price.  It is the agent’s job to help their client negotiate this. What are you as a buyer looking for?  The same thing any buyer looks for – the lowest reasonable price. It is your agent’s job to help you find and negotiate this.

How, then, could one person represent both of these clearly conflicting interests at the same time?

This is one of the key reasons why you as a buyer need to work with a buyer’s agent who will represent you.

Another reason has to do with your property needs.  When your agent carries out their searches for a dossier of suitable properties based on your criteria, they should include all suitable properties, listed by any company, or even privately listed.  It is important that the agent is not limited to only a certain set of properties which they feel they need to give preference to in their sales.

It is also important to know that working with a buyer’s agent costs you nothing.  The commission for both agents comes from the seller; the commission is a standard percentage, if there are two agents, it is split between them.

When you see that nice Mexico condo for sale, or home, the best advice is to find and select a reliable, qualified agent who will represent your needs.  They can then contact the listing agent, and help you find any other suitable property.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

When considering Mexico real estate investment one very viable option is that of a condo hotel.  This special type of Mexico condos for sale has its own distinct advantages, and especially for the buyer who is new to investment and would rather focus on enjoying their investment property than constantly analyzing all the market details, it presents an easier way to enjoy income on a vacation property.

The advantages condos in a hotel or resort setting can pretty much be summed up in the idea of “hands-off.”  This is a hands-off investment, making things easy for the buyer.  Some of the advantages include:

Sold furnished – Most condos in a hotel or resort are sold furnished as luxury hotel rooms, since this is their purpose.  This means you don’t have to worry about finding and installing furniture, etc, or ensuring that you’ve covered all the necessities of renters.  This makes it easy for you to begin enjoying your property, and to begin renting out and enjoying income immediately.

Good value prices – Developers of new condo hotels often offer competitive prices for Mexico beachfront for sale.

Hands-off maintenance – Cleaning and maintenance are part of the package; when visitors move out, hotel cleaning staff will clean and prepare for the next visitors immediately, and on-site maintenance staff will take care of all and any repairs as they come up.  While maintenance fees tend to be higher, they also tend to include a good deal more.  It’s worth reviewing the list of included items and thinking about how much it would cost you to pay for them separately, remembering that you don’t need to hire anyone to take care of it while your not there or invest time checking up that it’s being done right.

Hands-off rental management – The rental pools are part of the hotel management service; all you have to do is sign up, and you’ll be ready to enjoy income from your property.  On this point, it’s worth investigating the strategy and occupancy history of the management company to ensure that this hands-off rental service will indeed deliver on your investment.

Easy personal use management – Many of these rental pool plans include easy reservation of time for personal use.  You’re property will be in the rental pool for the rest of the time.

Guaranteed Income – Some developers are offering guaranteed return if you are buying in a new condo-hotel.  If you are buying resale, a simple investigation of rental history will offer you a pretty good idea of how you’ll do for income. Be sure to consider all costs; this is easier since most are included in monthly fees, but for the sake of planning, you don’t want to overlook any monthly payments that are left in your hands.  Most new resort-style condos will spell this out for you fairly clearly.

Good future value – Since the value is closely tied to tourism market and demand for hotels in the area, you have very good likelihood of seeing an increase in demand; Mexico has made increasing tourism its number 1 priority for 2011 and the following years with the goal of bringing the country into the top 5 world-wide for tourism income.  This is a good indication that your income should be going up, and there will be more demand to buy properties like yours.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

The Mexico real estate guide from TOP Mexico has helped thousands of people over the past couple of years.  The ebook was written from the experience and tips from people in the industry.   The book speaks about the process here in a Mexico real estate transaction, the key players, the types of contracts you will expect to review and execute during the transactions.   Below you will see one of the latest readers to download the guide and his opinion and suggestions on using.

Thomas Lloyd graduated from Purdue University Krannert School of Management with a degree in Management/Financial Option Investments. He has been living, investing, and working professionally in Mexico for over 15 years. In the summer of 2009, he received the first federally applied Mexico Real Estate Degree and Mexico Professional Real Estate License S.E.P. #5978657. He is the current president of TOPmexicorealestate, you can contact him at (512) 879-6546

“Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely

Playa del Carmen real estate update;

The new overpass spans over 5.2 kilometers on the Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum highway of 307.  It was estimated that 25 minutes was the time of trayectory through the Playa del Carmen municipality.  With the bridge overpass in function, this time has been reduced to an estimated 5 minutes.  The overpass will be of great benefits to all residents especially those living on the northern and southern regions of Playa del Carmen.

Doug Morgan 512-879-6546 www.TOPmexicorealestate.com THE TOP Mexico Real Estate NETWORK; “Mexico’s leading specialists for finding and purchasing Mexican properties safely !”