Every year Cozumel real estate owners get the pleasure of celebrating the island’s lively and colorful Carnival!  This year, the island is already preparing for the upcoming festivities which will take place during the week from Wednesday, February 15 to Wednesday, February 22, 2012, with the biggest festivities on Mardi Gras, Tuesday Feb. 21.

Bright, lively costumes in Cozumel's Carnival

Residents and visitors can look forward to bright costumes, lively dances and colorful floats for the main parade which heads down the “Malecon” or boardwalk along the downtown beachfront.  In Cozumel, the costumes and dancing take on a somewhat Mayan theme, reflecting the island’s heritage.  Of course, there will also be lots of music and dancing, and plenty of great food.

Those who own Mexico beachfront for sale on Cozumel will enjoy close access to enjoying the rich history and culture in these festivities.

On Cozumel, the festival has over 130 years of history and it’s one of the best Carnival festivals in the region.

Candidates for King and Queen of the Cozumel Carnival, 2012

The King and Queen of the festivities have already been chosen, and they will be crowned at the beginning of the festivities on Feb. 15!

I look forward to seeing everyone and enjoying the festivities together for this exciting celebration on Cozumel!

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

A Float in the Mari Gras Parade

A beautiful cenote

Two features which many Americans and Canadians look for when they buy Yucatan real estate are the area’s lush, green jungle, and the other is the relaxation of living in close contact with the mysteries of the ancient Mayans.  The recently opened “Mayan Cenote Park” in Chemax, Yucatan (February 2, 2012) combines the best of these two factors for residents.

The park, designed so that visitors can enjoy an unforgettable experience with nature in the Mayan jungle and ancient traditions is 10 hectares in size (about 25 acres) and is the largest ecological park in the area.

Part of offering experience with the ancient mysteries of the Mayan people are the natural wonder of the area’s “cenotes.”  These magical sites, which were sacred to the Mayan religion, are naturally occurring fresh-water pools at the entrances to the area’s underground cave and waterway system.

The main attraction is a cenote with an 80 meter diameter (about 260 feet), a depth of 24 meters (about 80 feet) and a height of 22 meters (about 72 feet) from ground level, at the opening of the cave, to the water’s surface.

A tour is offered inside one of the caves where visitors can enter by means of a traditional ladder, 34 meters long (about 110 feet). Visitors can practice sports like zip line and rappelling.

The park is located in the municipality of Chemax, near Valladolid, about 1 hour away from Merida.  The town is also about 2 hours away from Playa del Carmen, hence benefiting Playa del Carmen real estate owners as well as yet another beautiful attraction and place to relax in harmony with nature.

Grand opening of the restaurant, with various dignitaries

The construction of the park cost $56.6 million pesos, or about $4 million USD.

The park also includes areas for hammocks, thatched-roof “palapa” shades, handicrafts for sale, lockers, a restaurant with seating for 800 people, a kitchen and space for those who enjoy photography.

New attractions like this park promise to make Yucatan grow not only as a world-class tourist destination, but also as one of the leading Mexico real estate destinations.

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

The Grand Opening at the Cenote

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 !”

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 !”

The dream of living in Mexico is alive and very strong for millions of Canadians and Americans.   Tulum is one of those locations that sparks the imagination with its’ incredible post card perfect beaches and their green lush jungles.   Many people fall in love with the beaches and then begin searching for Tulum homes for sale.  But being the little village is so small…the Tulum real estate market has more land than finished homes for choosing.  So there is plenty of land, on the south side, on the road to Coba, land in the downtown section and projects such as Aldea Zama whose infrastructure has been professionally laid out.    But people worry about the thought of taking on a construction project way down south in another country, in another language, in another business environment.   That is why TOP Mexico real estate wanted to chat with a few contractors from the zone.  We know of many homes, gorgeous homes that have been built by Americans and Canadians from long distance…and they were successes!

Take a look at the video below to see this beautiful home in the middle of the Mexican jungle… don’t feel you need to buy cookie cutter homes down in Tulum or in Mexico,  let your imagination run,  put your dreams down on paper and we can introduce you to contractors who can get the job done.

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

What is going on with the Playa del Carmen real estate market and prices?   This is an often asked question by our clients who are considering purchasing real estate in Mexico, and rightly so.  Are real estate prices going up, dropping as in the US, or holding their own?  “Is this the time  to buy now, or should we wait”, is often asked. Let me make some important comments on the subject and hopefully give you a better idea of what’s going on here in Mexico, and in Playa del Carmen in particular.

The biggest and most important point, especially for our US clients, is that most all real estate purchases in the past have been made for CASH.  No mortgages, and therefore no defaults and virtually no foreclosures.  That is why prices here have continued to be relatively stable here. But, I would say the market here is soft, primarily due to the worldwide cautiousness that has everyone being a bit careful with their money these days.  We don’t see the aggressiveness of a couple years ago when property was selling like the proverbial “hot cakes”.  Playa del Carmen is still one of the fastest growing areas in Mexico, if not in all of Latin America.  I assume most of you have been here and can appreciate the many reasons why.  As for a Mexico retirement option, it’s a lovely small beach town with one of nicest beaches anywhere.  Small enough to pretty much walk everywhere.  It has a wonderful mix of local life along with the great shops and restaurants of a tourist town….the best of both worlds.  It was just listed as one of the safest towns in all of Mexico.  It’s friendly and hospitable and of course, the cost of living is so much cheaper that where you might be living. But yes, there are some really great deals right now…some real bargains on the Playa del Carmen beachfront for sale.  And of course, nobody knows what the future hold for prices…my crystal ball is a bit fuzzy as always.  We won’t know if now is the best time to buy until later when we can look back at current prices. There are some urgent sellers who need to sell, whether because of lifestyle changes, death, or perhaps overextended financially.  There are always bargains to be had for all type of reasons.  The sellers know it is not a robust market now and some, not all, are offering great deals as a result. I guess that’s where we come in.  Use us to help find you the best possible deal.  The more information you give us, the better we can help.  The location, the style, the size and of course, you budget.  Then we can go to work for you representing you to find the best deals and best options that fit your idea of your own personal home in Mexico.

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 !”

Overall Cost of Living
-One of the most popular questions we get from prospective buyers for Mexico homes for sale is about this subject…cost of living in Mexico.   It definitely ranks among the top advantages of a Mexican retirement and living south of the border along with a simpler casual lifestyle.   But it is a bit difficult to quantify the cost of living issue as everyone has their own personal standard of living.

Are you used to living a “top shelf” lifestyle, or perhaps an average day-to-day routine and way of living is fine?  Obviously your standard of living will dictate your financial budget. But it is easy to say that most everything is less expensive in Mexico.  Perhaps electricity is the only budget item that might be considered expensive here.  Based on the primary issue of amount of air conditioning you want to enjoy, your electric bill could be as high or even higher than in North America.  Other than that one item, everything else is cheaper.  Not dirt cheap, but whether groceries, other utilities, clothing, auto and gasoline expenses to restaurants, taxes (especially almost non-existent property taxes, monthly condo fees…..all are cheaper than you are used to paying. It is easy to say you can live like a king on a modest budget here in the Mexico real estate region.  And yes, it is quite a nice change.  I have enjoyed the surprised look of many clients when showing a total property tax bill of less than $400-500 per YEAR!  And condo association fees a mere fraction of what they are used to “back home”. Medical costs are much lower here as well, but I can assure you the quality of care is as good, if not better than I had living in Florida.  In fact, my medical costs here are probably less than I would pay if I were back in Florida just for my deductible and my co-pay.  When paying for my doctor’s visit last week, they deducted 25% from my already low fee since I was a “local”. And perhaps the cheapest item in Mexico is people…labor.  Whether your person cleaning the house, or cooking,  or doing the laundry to someone doing yard work, washing the car or even doing construction, that is really a surprisingly low expense. So, yes…the cost of living is a big plus when considering a move to Mexico.   Living better for less…what a nice feeling.

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 !”

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. Unfortunately, retirement and certainly early retirement is only that…a dream.  Largely due to the increasing cost of living in the USA,  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 intact.  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 pressures 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 the Mexico real estate territory seems to be the first choice of retiring 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.  I will be blogging a series of articles in which we will explore many of these issues for your consideration as a better alternative for a better retirement lifestyle.  Your quality of life in your new Mexico homes for sale will be beyond what most people can imagine.   The lower cost of living will allow a more luxurious lifestyle and less stress 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 upcoming 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 !”

I wanted to provide a quick update on construction progress of this Riviera Maya condos for sale called Papaya Plus and coincidentally there is a large preparation going on for the festivities of Mexican Independence day or El Grito de la Independencia . Every year on September 15, the president rings the bell in the National Palace in Mexico city and shouts ‘Viva Mexico’ various times. Cities througout Mexico mimic this celebration.What a great location to be able to attend events such as this just 1 block away! Here you can see the preparations below:

Papaya Plus, one of only a few Playa del Carmen condos for sale that will have an elevator, now has all 4 levels constructed and they are currently working on the rooftop common area and fine tuning the interiors. Just to refresh some of the unique and excellent features they are offering: 1) Elevator that goes from the underground parking to the rooftop. There aren’t that many projects, especially in this price range that offer this. 2) Onsite concierge to maintain the low condo fees and they assist with repairs, act as security, lend a hand to the owners with groceries or receiving bottled water, etc 3) Fully equipped kitchens and high end finishes throughout. 4) Only 16 exclusive units of 2 bedrooms, that share a spacious common rooftop with sensational views of the downtown area. Here are a couple updated photos I took today:

Still offering a 6% pre-sale discount off the pricelist. Consider the Try and Buy option available, either way come and have a look for yourself!

Click here for more details Riviera Maya Condos for sale

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

Many Americans and Canadians have questions and doubts about financing a Mexico real estate purchase through a mortgage when they first undertake the process of buying property.  The following are some of the main questions which buyers ask about mortgages in Mexico with answers from professional sources.

Q. Is financing available for non-Mexicans buying property in Mexico?

A. Yes, there is.  There are mortgage programs from Mexican banks specifically for Americans and Canadians who have income back home. There is a closely related program for Europeans – mostly British and Spanish – called “Euro Loans” from one Mexican bank, Bancomer BBVA.

Q. What are the basic qualifications to get a mortgage from a Mexican Bank?

A. To qualify for a mortgage from a Mexican bank as non-Mexican you need to meet the following criteria:

• Age – You must be at least 18 years old.
• FICO score – You must have a FICO score of at least 680
• Euroloan – For Europeans, the main difference is that no FICO score is required since credit rating is provided through the European governments.
• Documentation – You will need to meet the basic requirements as with an American bank in terms of documentation.
• Proof of income – You will need to prove your income, usually through tax returns

Q. How long will it take to process my loan?

A.  The time period for a pre-approval is very short, and is usually completed within 3 days.  The closing process will usually take between 30 and 45 days.  The time required results mostly from the commercial appraisal (which is required) and the documentation which needs to be reviewed and prepared.  This time is only slightly more than the process of gaining bank trust, which is always necessary when buying Mexico beachfront for sale.  In total, those who buy through a mortgage in Mexico can expect to have about 15 extra days in the process in total.

On the whole, the process will be more involved than a mortgage in the U.S. or Canada; however, for most buyers, it is worth the extra effort to have this viable financing option available to them.

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

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!”

Last Sunday a garage sale was held at the popular Travel’In restaurant in my Costa Maya real estate region, south Mahahual.  A great mix of locals and foreigners were there to see what treasures were on offer and it was such a success that another one will be held in a couple of months.

A TV crew were filming on the beachfront in Mahahual yesterday.  They were filming various areas of Costa Maya and Quintana Roo state as they are putting together a publicity programme, “El Mundo en Reverse” for the Costa Maya’s Tourist Board, which will be televised next week.  Wonderful publicity for the area and the film crew all want to buy real estate in Costa Maya now!

Additional publicity for Mahahual and Costa Maya will come this Friday evening when the swim-suit competition for “Miss Earth” will be held on the malecon.  This is an annual event held in various parts of Mexico and Mahahual has been chosen to host this part of the competition.

With Costa Maya real estate listings, there are some great deals on beachfront properties at the moment.  Several beach lots have been reduced recently in order to sell quickly.  A great deal in the south of Mahahual offers 30 metres (60 feet) of soft sands and clear water, with the road being towards the back of the property to give great privacy.  Only US$175,000, which makes a fantastic price per linear metre, which is how most beach properties are priced.  This is underpriced and a great bargain. Check out listing: CMY-LTW-1517 and email us for further details.

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!”

This past weekend saw an influx of tourists to the Costa Maya real estate region, both national and international, to celebrate the fourth annual Jats’a-Ha Festival, which celebrates a new beginning for this Mexican Caribbean town after the devasting hurricane Dean, which hit in August 2007.

Opening with a Mayan ceremony, there were an abundance of activities for all.  Photography and sandcastle competitions, live music, folklore dancing, an ecological workshop, and on the sporting side, volleyball and a triathlon, to mention just a few!  Every year this festival is becoming bigger with more events and more participants; a positive development for our usually quiet Costa Maya town.

Now talking about the Costa Maya real estate for sale activities, there has been an influx of interest in the Costa Maya area over the past few months.  New listings and more people enquiring about the area.  Maybe the reduced real estate prices are attracting people or the realization that, as the most southerly Mexican Caribbean coast, it’s unspolit beauty is non-existent in the busier tourist centres of Cancun, Playa del Carmen and even Tulum, to the north.

One of the new listings we have is for a town centre 1 bedroom Costa Maya condo for sale only 50 metres away from the beach.  Great Caribbean ocean view as you sit on the terrace enjoying meals or simply sipping a cocktail.  As the owner of this condo, it’s proximity to all the town’s amenities and the ocean also makes it a valuable vacation rental.  With a popular hotel carrying out property management you can purchase this condominium as an investment without worrying about the maintenance, whilst also enjoying some income.  Furnished and turn-key, check out the listing now:
MLS: CMY-CMW-2310

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!”

The Settlement Company® based in the Mexico real estate regions,  is pleased to announce that Raoul Rodriguez Walters has joined our team as a consultant.

Raoul is a US certified financial planner™ who was raised in a bicultural and bilingual household in Mexico City. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin in Economics in 1989 and a master’s in personal financial planning from the College of Financial Planning in 2003.

Together with his wife, who worked for over ten years with the High Commissioner for Refugees, they lived in Venezuela, Sudan, the Republic of Georgia and then again in the Mexico real estate market. He has traveled extensively in Latin America, Africa, Europe and to a lesser degree the Far East. Having been an expatriate himself, Raoul has a deep appreciation of the needs of those living abroad.

Raoul is a veteran in the financial planning industry with more than twelve years of international experience. He launched and managed the first cross-border financial planning firm, Mexico Advisor. It specializes in US-Mexico issues. Concurrently, from 2001 to 2005 he worked as a technical expert for the US delegation that negotiated the International Standard Organization’s standard for financial planning, known as ISO 22222.

He has particular expertise in issues related to international taxes and estate planning. Raoul has written and spoken extensively on issues related to US- Mexico personal finance and international personal finance issues. In 2009 he co-wrote the chapter on estate planning law in Mexico, published in International Successions, edited by Oxford Press.

In addition to being a CFP, Raoul is a registered tax preparer, is a member of the Financial Planning Association, and was a founding member of the Cross-border Financial Planning Alliance.

Raul is now available to serve our clients from Canada and the United Sates with their financial planning and taxes.

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 advantages that modernization has presented for Mexico retirement is that of online banking.  This advantage applies equally to managing your bank account back home from Mexico as it does to managing your Mexico bank account from back home when you’re not in Mexico.

The ease that this presents makes buying and owning Mexico real estate to use only part of the year during your retirement more attractive.

For example, if you buy Playa del Carmen real estate, you have the choice between Bancomer, Banorte, Banamex (CitiBank,) Santander, Scotiabank, IXE and several other banks most of which not only have multiple convenient branch locations throughout the city, but all offer safe and modern online banking options.

Online banking for you Mexican bank account allows you to do the following from the U.S. or Canada during the summer, or whenever it is that you spend your time back home:

• Pay bills
• Pay services
• Pay Mexico taxes (if you run a business in Mexico, for example)

Each of these make it possible to continue carry out banking regularly in Mexico while visiting back home.

The most noticeable advantages, however, come from online banking options from your home bank in the U.S. or Canada.  Through the services your home bank offers, you can:

• Transfer money to your Mexican bank count; this is like a wire transfer, but you can do it from the comfort of your home computer, and from Mexico; i.e. you don’t have to go to your home bank personally to make the transfer as you otherwise would.  This makes it much easier to have access to your retirement funds.
• Pay bills back home.
• Check your balance.  Many banks like Bank of America and CitiBank allow you to withdraw funds from your U.S. or Canadian bank account in certain Mexican banks (Scotiabank and Banamex respectively) at no charge (only the official exchange rates.)

  Free Download Kit: Save Money Living in Mexico

  Save Money in Mexico

  Tips and Tricks on how to save money living in Mexico

  

  Especially at the beginning when you are first settling in in Mexico, you won’t have a Mexico bank account yet, but you will need a way to access funds that is safe and not costly.  Being able to check your balance will help you keep up to date of how much they are charging and how much you really have left.

For retirees buying property and moving to Mexico it is highly recommendable to talk to their bank and set up online banking if they have not yet done so.

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

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

According to the Secretary of Tourism of Quintana Roo, Coba had close contact with large cities in Guatamala, Campeche and Quintana Roo such as Tikal, Dzibanche and Calakmul.  In order to maintain its’ power thousands of years ago, it had established military and matrimonial alliances with other communities at the highest levels.  Today, this historical site is one of many places to explore in the region that makes the Tulum real estate for sale grow in demand for many non-Mexicans.  New projects and developments like Aldea Zama in Tulum bring many extra amenities to the Mexican Caribbean life style.

Only 42 kilometers from the Tulum real estate region, Coba is one of the Mexico real estate market’s most important archeological zones which means “Place where the water is turbulent”.   There is a hypothesis that 900 to 1,000 AD Coba had entered into a large dispute with Chichen Itza which lessened its’ importance as one of the dominant populations in the Mayan civilization.

Because of the central location geographical location, it is estimated that nearly 60 paths lead to and from Coba to Xel-Ha, Tulum, Chichen Itza amongst many other cities.  SacBe means a raised road, normally a white road that leads between temples, and even between cities.  These were usually coasted with limestone stucco thus the white appearance.

Hector Moreno has been working in Real Estate in the areas of Tulum, Akumal, Sian Kaan for nearly 8 years. He is a certified real estate agent and owner/broker of Moreno Realty Associates. (512) 879-6546

THE TOPMexicoRealEstate.com NETWORK
“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

La Paz, Baja California Sur, is a very special place.    First, it is important to understand that the words, La Paz mean City of Peace.   And it is!   Residents live full and happy lives and are not interested in conflict or unhappiness.   We help one another!   Over the next few weeks I will share some of the places and activities that make my La Paz real estate region so special for quality living.

Let’s start with RANCHO EL CAMINO

Peter and Cher Gatto, from the United States have an oasis on 40 acres of Mexico real estate located against the rugged coast mountains that  hug the Sea of Cortez just south of La Paz.    When they arrived at the ranch some years ago it had a dilapidated dwelling, beautiful springs, lots of rattlesnakes and scorpions and not much else.  This has become a training camp and learning place for hundreds of children from La Paz who have not had this type of opportunity in the past.  It also attracts  young people from all over the United States who spend their summers at Rancho El Camino helping building, working with children, tending the animals.

This summer, 2011, 100 students will come from the US as interns, learning to work and play together, sharing their experiences which range from KP duty, to building dormitories, caring for the animals (goats, cows, horses, a rabbit, chickens, etc) and having a healthy spiritual experience.

Peter and Cher consider this a ministry and are thankful to have the opportunity to share beauty, nature and goodness with others.

They are especially proud of the horse ministry in which young ones learn to love and care for horses.   This is good for the horses but seems to be even better for the children, many of whom have never been close to a large animal before.

They have also established a camping ministry which makes the ranch available for weekend camping to young people from churches of all denominations and sizes from La Paz and the surrounding communities.

Located on a dirt road at the edge of the mountains after passing through the Marquez de Leon neighborhood of La Paz, Rancho El Camino is a paradise in the desert.

Author Linda Neil has over 35 years of hands on experience in all aspects of Mexican real estate. She holds membership in AMPI, NAR, and FIABCI and PROFECO Certificate 00063/96.  Founding  member of AMPI Los Cabos and two time member of the national advisory board she is the owner broker of LINDA NEIL PROPERTIES for more information (512)-879-6546 THE www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

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

“I find inspiration in layering transparent colors to create depth and composition.  Rothko is a foundational influence.  As a colorist, I try to evoke emotion and a visual dialogue of ethereal and intangible realities.  Using references of the universal elements to invite the viewer’s personal perception of reality where an environment of appreciation and presence can be shared.”

-  Victoria Sterkel

One of Playa del Carmen’s most talented artists, Victoria Sterkel shared some of her most latest inspirations in Cancun this week.  The ME boutique hotel by Melia, was the proud host of this colorful event.   Her work has become very popular with many Playa del Carmen real estate owners as her talent with colors captures… the Mexican Caribbean magic.   Congratulations Victoria!

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, and later on once you’re living in Mexico enjoying your new home, a concept you will want to be familiar with is making wire transfer for the purpose of payments and access to personal funds.

For example, if you buy a Playa del Carmen condo in the preconstruction phase, you may need to make a partial deposit (usually refundable) in order to reserve a particular unit while you make arrangements to head down, formalizing the sale and making the full deposit.

You will want to make such payments in the most secure way possible, which is a wire transfer.  To make a wire transfer, you will need specific information, which includes a SWIFT number (an international number identifying the bank to which you are transferring,) and an account number.  With this information your home bank will be able to transfer funds securely and quickly.  As further payments and deposits are required during the process, you will want to continue using this as the most secure method of transferring funds.

Some banks also allow for wire transfers online.  Consult with your home bank about the availability, charge, and amount limits involved to investigate if this is feasible for your needs.

Wire transfers can also be used beyond your Playa del Carmen real estate purchase, once you are settled in Mexico and need access to your funds.  However, there are also other options available which tend to cost a little less, and are secure for smaller amounts.  These include transfer companies, credit cards and simple ATM withdrawals.

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