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

If you are searching for a Mexico condo for sale for the first time, all the different ownership options might be a little confusing.  One option which often needs clarification is that of a condo hotel, and one of the points most important to understand is that they offer full, titled ownership of condominium units.

Mexico property ownership of condos is much like that in the U.S. or Canada; individual buyers own a given unit, and all the owners collectively own the common areas, infrastructure, etc., which could include a lobby, a pool, and a maintenance area, for example.  Monthly fees (home owner association fees, or HOI) from owners cover maintenance of these areas.

Monthly fees can vary, as can the services included in these fees.  Services can be simple maintenance of the building, or can gardening for the common area, pool cleaning, or any other service necessary to maintain the functionality, quality and image of the condominium as a whole.  Other standard services include security personnel or a receptionist.

However, from there any number of services can be included.  The concept of a condo hotel is basically a condominium which includes all features necessary to function as a hotel; this may be as simple as an a reception area and a pool with a lounge, or could include large green areas with tennis courts and golf-cart pathways – in short, a full resort setting.

The difference is that your condo complex will be geared towards offering hotel services to vacationers with the purpose of generating income for you.  For this very reason, these condo hotels often offer a more accessible way to buy Mexico beachfront for sale balancing the expense of owning a vacation property with an income.  The hotel services, including the rental pool, room cleaning and international promotion will be contracted out to service provider.

The point is that you are the full owner of your unit, and, along with the rest owners, the common areas.  Your ownership, just like in any condominium, will be fully titled with a deed in the public registry.  It will be yours to use, generate income with, or sell.

You are full, complete owner; it is not fractional, shared or time share.

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 or through the company’s web site www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

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

One of the best ways to generate income from your vacation property is through Mexico rentals. When searching for a Mexico condo for sale or home for this purpose, you will want to consider your goals and your rental strategy carefully ahead of time to ensure that you are getting the most out of your property investment.

The first concept to consider is your purpose for renting out the property. Are you looking to cover the expenses of you vacation property with little bit of an income on top, or are you making your first go at a purely investment property entirely dedicated to rental income? If your purpose is to balance expenses you might balance your personal tastes and needs with rental demand, etc. On the other hand, if you are only renting out the property, you should do a little more research to focus your property search on market demands.

Another factor to consider is the rental type. Will it be a Mexico vacation rentals, a medium-term rental or a long-term rental? Each of these will also have to be considered in terms of other factors, such as location, your personal use of the property. For example, vacation rental would be more appropriate if you intend to use the property for a week several times a year. Long-term rental would be more appropriate if the property is in a quieter residential neighborhood back from the beach, lakefront or main tourist area.

Many buyers looking for vacation rentals tend to look for a property in a complex setting (such as Playa del Carmen villas) because of the ease of maintenance, and the inclusion of extras such as pools, etc. (which can be available in homes, but at a higher price,) as well as the ease of maintenance. However, homes can also be rented out successfully. Other variations to consider are condo-hotels or resort-style developments.

Directly tied to this choice is the rental method. The most hands-off approach is a condo-hotel; for example certain Playa del Carmen condo sales offer complete resort services, as well as maintenance, rental and promotion services. The most involved approach is a single family home which is not a part of a complex. Both have their advantages which must be weighed against how much time you have to invest on an ongoing basis.

Perhaps the most important factor to consider is visibility of your property; you may be able to save money and invest the time by having a stand alone property, but it is also very important to consider visibility of your property. You could have the best property in town at the best price, but if no one knows about it, you won’t see any income. A good rental agency can help with this. You may also wish to consider a variety of outlets for advertising your property.

Finally, you will also want to consider the balance of monthly expenses. Whichever kind of property you decide to invest in, you will want to make a complete list of expenses to be covered each month, weather its the condo fee or the cleaning lady and compare these against your potential rental income.

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 or through the company’s web site www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

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

Recently the New York Times published an article evaluating what, to them, was a very surprising phenomenon; despite reports of drug violence, tourist numbers to Mexico are INCREASING significantly.  From our own sales experience here at TOP Mexico Real Estate, we have seen the same increase in people choosing to live in Mexico and buying Mexico condos or homes.

Why would this be?  While the New York Times (NYT) attributes this apparent contradiction to a “pricing strategy” we’ve discovered something a little closer to the real reason.

Let’s take a look at some of the stats NYT gathered from the Mexico Tourist Board:

• 8.2 million – the number of international tourists in Mexico for 2010 -  (from Jan. to Oct., arriving by air)
• 17.8 % – The increase compared to the same months during 2009
• 13.4% – The increase in American travelers during that period over 2009
• 6.4% – The increase compared to 2008, which was the best year for tourism in Mexico in history

Notice that all are INCREASES. NYT also noticed, and, to them, this was a surprise, considering the “H1N1 scares ['swine flu' outbreak during 2009] and drug violence.”

The article went on to point out that people who go on vacations or live in Mexico part of the year in Mexico are often surprised to hear people back home shocked that they would dare come to this “dangerous” country.

For us, down here in Playa del Carmen, this comes as no surprise at all.  While the drug wars most certainly exist, they are the worst up by parts near the U.S. border, since, unfortunately, that’s where their business gets its cash.  There are a few other isolated pockets.  Outside of those areas, however, visitors to Mexico, expats, and even common Mexican citizens live day to day life virtually unaffected by these conflicts; this news is as distant to them as it is to many people in the U.S.  International news also drew little attention to the fact that Mexico’s reaction to the H1N1 outbreak was very fast and effective, and curbed what could have been a much bigger problem.

So, why the impression that the entire country is ravaged by drug violence and disasters? Well, the reason is one that NYT, CNN or any other news source may not like; their headlines do everything to promote this impression.  It sells better.  NYT conveniently avoided this point with the easy cop-out, “the pricing strategy seems to be working.”

Yes, prices are a real draw for visiting and living in Mexico; but this is just the reality of international economy, not a conspiracy to distract people from problems.  The reality is that people who actually come here – on vacations, for retirement or for any other reason – don’t see drug violence.  They don’t see people dropping dead in the streets from the flu.

What they see is beautiful beaches, and awe-inspiring views of lakes, mountains, jungles and forests.  They see a warm culture with many colorful traditions, and people who are welcoming and friendly. Yes, they do see petty theft sometimes, especially if people are careless, but that’s true even more so in New York and many other cities in the U.S.  Playa del Carmen property sales, and many others around the country, are doing fine, and it’s not just a “pricing strategy” that’s bringing people here.

So, returning back home, visitors and residents are confronted with these bazaar headlines and friends who were worried for their safety.  Of course, they’re surprised.  Of course the NYT was surprised by the statistics that reflect this reality that runs in the face of the ideas the media has been pushing so hard.

It is nice, at least, that one news source is waking up to a reality backed by numbers and real life stories; hopefully more will follow.

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 or through the company’s web site www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

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

Mexico real estate is set to benefit from ongoing recovery on world-wide tourism; as the top national destination for U.S. travelers, Mexico will continue to provide real estate owners with excellent and improving tourism infrastructure, one of the key attractions for Americans and Canadians choosing to live in Mexico retirement communties, as well as investors.

Recent data from the U.N.’s World Tourism Organization (WTO) show that while international tourism is still recovering from the 4.2% decline experienced last year under the impact of recession, during the first eight months of this year, the number of international tourists exceeded the peak reached during the same period the year before the crisis, 2008.

According to the report, between January and August 2010 the number of travelers worldwide reached 642 million, about 40 million more than in the same months in 2009 (+7%) and 1 million more than the same period 2008, the record year before the recession.

Mexico belongs to the group of North Central America, which achieved a growth of 9% in tourist arrivals, higher than the world-wide average.

Many of the benefits of living in Mexico’s main real estate destinations for retirees, families and investors are closely tied into the amount of tourism which arrives to this country from the United States, Europe and other parts of the world, including international airports with many inexpensive direct flight options, activities infrastructure, such as golf courses, marinas and “eco-parks.”

Playa del Carmen real estate, for example, has benefited greatly from the services and investment which the area’s strong tourism has brought.  Playa del Carmen property value is expected to continue seeing healthy increase for this reason.  Investors in areas such as this can also find excellent opportunities to generate income from vacation rentals.

As for world-wide statistics, based on current trends, it is expected that international tourist arrivals will increase around 5% or 6% during the whole year. In 2011, growth is expected to continue at a slower pace, around a long-term average of 4%.

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 or through the company’s web site www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

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

This past week I set up a short video interview with Mr. Azahel Dominguez, who works as a loan officer at a Mexican bank here in Mexico.  I have helped many people from Canada and USA buy Mexico homes with financing and thought I would provide clients a straight forward FAQ VIDEO on the process of obtaining a mortgage here in Mexico.  Most properties that are titled or have the condominium regime in place can be eligible for applying for financing.  Top Mexico real estate agents can advise if the property you are interested in purchasing would be eligible for such financing.

Please check out the video here:

One example of a property that I have helped several of my clients purchase with financing are these Playa del Carmen condos for sale ,  which is fully completed and operational and ready to be titled.  The prices range from $300,000 up to $750,000 and with 25% down I can help you get financing on these units using the same Mexican property as guarantee.    Call or write us,  we can help you find answers and options to purchase a Mexican property 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 !”

About 22.6 million tourists, 80% of them from the United States and Canada, are expected to have visited our Mexico real estate region by the end of 2010.

As of September, inbound tourism was up 18.8% compared with 2009 (the worst year on record) and 6% better than 2008.

Arrivals from Canada are up almost 22% over 2009 and 32% over 2008, with 1 million air arrivals this year.

And, despite the much-publicized bankruptcy of Mexicana Airlines earlier this year, air arrivals from the U.S. were up 15% compared with 2009.

The growth in visitors from other countries is even greater. Italy is up 22%; Germany, 18%; and Brazil, 94%.

John Glaab
(512)-879-6546 THE www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

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

For 2010, the Mexico real estate has received the important news that hotel rates in Mexico have actually fallen while in most of the rest of the world, rates have actually risen.  For the real estate industry this fact has several implications for buyers to consider. The data was released in Hotels.com’s Hotel Price Index (HPI).  The data indicated that on average, during the 2nd trimester of 2010, hotel prices rose by 2% throughout the world, with various from region to region, with South America and Europe seeing the most significant increases.

Mexico’s hotel prices, in contrast, fell by 7%, and as high as 18% and 22% in places like Puerto Vallarta and Cancun.  The data is based on rates that people are actually paying, as opposed to advertised rates for hotels; it probably means that hotels are offering more promotions, and buyers are taking advantage of them.   In general, this is an indication that travelers are choosing Mexico as an option where they can enjoy high quality for an accessible price. This fact is also true of those choosing to live in Mexico; just as importantly as enjoying low prices, expats in Mexico also offer a high-quality lifestyle and world-class services.  Both travelers and buyers can choose Mexico as “affordable luxury.” On the other hand, falling hotel prices are also an important consideration for property investors.  Those buying a Mexico home or condo to generate income from vacation rentals will have to take this factor into account while making income projections.  Hotel prices are not likely to continue dropping as tourism rises in Mexico (which it has been doing steadily after the low point of the recession in 2009.) Some areas of Mexico real estate has also been tackling this issue head on; new gated community developments are offering competitive prices, low monthly maintenance fees and many available services help smart investors be even more competitive than the promotions offered by hotels.

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 or through the company’s web site www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK “Mexico’s Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely!”

If you have, you’ve probably been to Playa del Carmen a few times, and you probably know it as the place where everything ends.  A closer look at what’s happening in the downtown are, however, will show you that it’s actually very much at the center of lifestyle on the beachfront and Playa del Carmen real estate.

The downtown beachfront area was originally centered between the two main access raods, Juarez Ave. and Constituyentes Ave.  Over the past decade, with the rapid growth of Playa del Carmen, and the arrival of a large number of Italian investors, the area along the beach north of Consituyentes has developed into Playa’s “Little Italy” with many excellent restaurants, cafes and Playa del Carmen condos developments.  Part of the beachfront about 2 blocks away from this stretch is known as Mamitas beach, where there is a famous beach club, and where the annual Riviera Maya Jazz Festival brings well-known international musicians every November.

Just past this, the beach draws out into a little point, known as Coco Beach.  At Coco beach, there are already jet-ski rentals, oriental massages, and a nice bar and restaurant.  But most travel guides and commentators will agree; there’s pretty much nothing past there, except a long stretch of wide beaches in the shape of a half-moon.

This, however, is changing. Mexico condo and hotel developers have noticed the potential of these wide beaches past Coco Beach, and construction has already begun.  As this development moves ahead, theses beaches will become frequented by many visitors and new residents.  When this happens, Coco Beach will be very much in the middle of Playa del Carmen’s central beachfront areas.

What’s more, Fifth Avenue – the main tourist street downtown, running through the original downtown area and Little Italy, is expanding quickly towards the Coco Beach area; only about 4 or 5 blocks away, cafes, nice clothing boutiques and pizza shops have already been opened.  Just about everything is pointing towards very good future potential, both for lifestyle and for investment.

Contact us to find out more about condos available in the area.

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 or through the company’s web site www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

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

What do real estate investment and a Mexican retirement lifestyle have in common?  Most people can guess that a good real estate investment strategy could lead to an early retirement in Mexico, but what is sometimes less obvious is that enjoying a retirement lifestyle in Mexico can also become an excellent property investment.

mexico retirement communityLa Escondida, a Mexican retirement community in Playa del Carmen also ideal for families and young investors, demonstrates the point well.  If you are a retiree, anyone else ready to enjoy the relaxation of a retirement lifestyle, and you will be living only part of the year in Mexico, some unique features of this boutique resort will allow to generate an income while you’re not using your property.

Very competitive property prices and accessible condominium fees (compared not only to resorts, but to most condo developments) allow you as a property owner to rent out your property at a rate attractive for small groups of vacationers looking for an more affordable, and more comfortable, alternative to a hotel (they will be renting entire homes or condos, giving them more personal space.)

An optional rental service, which includes promotion and management, as well as an on-line rental portal gives you control over your income while you’re away, with the peace of mind of having leading professionals promote your property.  A study of rates in the area and competitiveness of this development suggest that with 30 days of rental you will have covered expenses and will be enjoying an annual profit.

What else will prompt vacationers to rent your Mexico condo or home?  The same things that will attract you to buying the property to enjoy for your retirement or vacations in the first place.  On one hand, there are many services offered within the community, ranging from putting greens to a fitness center, or chef services.  Within walking distance is also a mall with a theater that plays movies in English.

On the other hand, there is a set of services designed specifically to help you or your renting vacationers to enjoy the many, many things to do surrounding area.  A concierge can make suggestions, bookings, and review schedules and costs.  A eco-friendly transportation service can take you to your destination.  An on-site tour company can arrange and carry out the whole trip for you.  There is a service to drop you and your luggage off at your front door, meaning no hauling bags.  (The community is car-free, and those who own cars can park them in a shaded parking area within the security gate.)

This combination of services is unique within Playa del Carmen real estate to date, and will provide you with an edge over others offering vacation rental properties.  Because of the low prices, the rentals will be targeting a market area which has very little competition from large resorts, small hotels or even condo rentals.

Do you want your retirement or vacation property to be a convenient and profitable investment?  Consider La Esconida.

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 or through the company’s web site www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

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

One of the best possible vacation property purchases is one which can double as an investment; when a property has a high rental demand, you can justify investing more of your funds, knowing that extra expense will be more than covered by the income. One Tulum beachfront home provides a luxury vacation lifestyle, and a prime example of how the same property can bring excellent investment return.

This luxury Mexico home is located in the village of Akumal, which is just a short drive north of Tulum, one of the most promising up-and-coming tourism spots on the the Mexican Caribbean, already famous for places like Cancun and Playa del Carmen (40 minutes and 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Akumal, respectively).  Each location provides close access to many convenient services, ranging from an international airport to modern hospitals to golf courses and English movie theaters.

Located directly on the oceanfront, within walking distance to two of the area’s most beautiful beaches, the home itself includes over 3000 sq. ft of construction, with 4 bedrooms, and a living room with 180 degree views of the ocean.  The modern minimalist design offers a relaxing atmosphere. There is also a 2 bedroom guest home.  The area is ideal for vacationing, combining complete relaxation with many conveniences.

For this same reason, the home has a very high and ongoing demand for vacation rentals.  The current owner has covered expenses of ownership in this way, and continues to enjoy significant income.  The guest home can also provide a separate rental unit.

In addition to the rental income, the home also promises excellent return on the property value; Tulum real estate in the area with similar features and rental potential is being sold for over $2 million.  This home is currently listed at only $899,000, significantly reduced by an owner motivated to sell quickly.

With a new airport on the way, and a well-designed urban growth plan already including a handful of upscale developments, value of real estate in the Tulum area looks like it’s headed upward.  This home will probably show a sale value of closer to the $2 million in the future.  Increasing tourism also suggests that rental demand will grow.

If you are looking for a vacation property that will be a real financial investment, consider this Tulum home.  You will  not be disappointed, either by the lifestyle or the income you enjoy.

Thomas Lloyd (512) 879-6546

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

A key factor in Mexico real estate, especially a market like that of Playa del Carmen, is the strength of tourism in the area.  For this very reason, contrary to what one might think, now is the IDEAL time to buy here; because of the international recession and the swine-flu travel advisory, the current market is at a low point, which means reduced prices, sometimes very reduced.  However, in addition to the confidence which the history of the Playa del Carmen real estate market offers us, (see “Second chance in the Playa del Carmen Real Estate market” in our real estate blog), the government of Mexico has just launched the “Vive Mexico” program, which will add to our confidence that the market will soon be on an upward trend, and that this is an ideal time to invest.

Those considering buying a home, or looking for an investment in Playa del Carmen may hesitate to buy at a time when appreciation has leveled off.  But considering the importance of tourism in this market, any indication that tourism will soon be on the rise again is a good sign.  The “Vive Mexico” program considerably strengthens these prospects.  President Calderon is challenging Mexico’s tourist industry, “Let’s show the world what we really are,” and do better than ever.  This is just what the “Vive Mexico” program is going to do, redoubling effort in innovative ways to promote Mexico’s tourist destinations, and offering special prices to an extent which has never been seen before.

So, what does this program include? An unprecedented financial investment of 90 million dollars (1.2 billion pesos).  This money will be used to promote Mexico “in every way possible as a tourist destination full of life, attractions and benefits with no equal.”  The investment will be dedicated to promoting tourism in North America and throughout the rest of the world, both encouraging Mexicans to get to know their own heritage, and continuing to show the rest of the world the benefits of coming to Mexico.

The message which “Vive Mexico” has for the world will be delivered through various media, and using celebrities such as actors and soccer players, and public figures from all walks of fame. The campaign has been called “much more than just a promotional campaign – it’s a national movement which requires the participation of all Mexicans.”

In addition to the campaign itself, numerous other initiatives are being undertaken.  One is an updated version of Playa del Carmen’s Digital Tourist Service Catalogue (Catalogo Turistico Digital), which includes catalogue of all services of interest to tourists in Playa and has been distributed on CD and very successfully received on an international level.  The new version will included data from a recent census to offer more complete information.  Also the government of this state is organizing an event (“Vive la Vida en el Caribe Mexicano, Travel Shop el Mall de los Viajes”) to complement the national program with promotion specific to Quintana Roo.

So, there’s going to be a lot of publicity – what else is going to be offered?  In  Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya,  there are going to be reduced prices, all-inclusive packages which now include even more, such as extra nights in hotels, free entrance into eco parks, and numerous other incentives for tourists.  Some packages are being offered as low as 50%. The campaign will focus on bolstering tourism this coming summer season, that is, within the next couple of months.

For the Playa del Carmen Real estate this means one thing; tourism, a key element in the market here, will rebounds and probably quite quickly. As tourism grows, the market trend will turn back up.  This factor, in addition to numerous others which will give buyers confidence in the Playa del Carmen Real Estate market, make this an ideal time to invest in Playa del Carmen.

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 or through the company’s web site www.TOPmexicorealestate.com NETWORK

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

I finally found a perfect Cancun real estate paradise, a beautiful two bedroom condo right on the white sandy beach overlooking the turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean and at an unbelievable price of $200,000 USD I am sitting on my terrace admiring the fabulous view, knocking back a couple of margaritas and adding up all the Cancun condo rental income that has come streaming in. I have been enjoying wonderful vacations that this income pays for and not to mention that I have been putting a tidy sum away with the super cash flow it s bringing in.

I kick back and put my feet up and pat myself on the back for my savvy Mexico real estate investment I made.

Then suddenly, I wake up ..It was just a dream.

I think we all have the same dream. If that super deal with super rental income did exist, you would be second in line, because, of course I would have to buy it.

So, what is reality That comfortable two bedroom Cancun beachfront condo will really be upwards of $500,000 USD and vacation rentals will not come streaming in.

The Mexican Caribbean is becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, so the market for vacation rentals is huge. However, when choosing a property these are some guidelines to go by.

1 The closer to the beach, the higher the cost of purchase but also the property has much more potential for a higher occupancy. In some areas such as in the Playa del Carmen real estate market, the vacation rental market is so hot that properties not on the beach also do well. But the further away from the beach the lower the occupancy will be and rental rates must be lowered accordingly.

2- Occupancy rates even on most Mexico beachfront properties do not reach 100% annually since vacation hot spots are seasonal Also there are many factors that influence vacation rental income, such as recovery from a hurricane, economic problems in other countries, acts of terrorism, etc.

3- Your vacation rental income potential will be greatly influenced by the property manager you choose. Also, if you actively participate, the occupancy can increase. You will need to decide how much time and money you wish to invest in promoting your property.

4- Buy a property keeping in mind that vacation rentals should help cover the property s expenses monthly condo fees, Mexico real estate taxes, utilities, etc. Any extra income then starts to help pay for your vacations. It is not wise to purchase with the idea of positive cash flow, however if you do become actively involved and have a good manager you can do nicely with the income.

5- If you plan on using your property most of the winter, especially Christmas week, the rental income will decrease substantially. High season for vacation rentals is Christmas week through Easter.

6- Consider a Mexico condo hotel. You can purchase a fully titled condo but let the hotel operator rent it out. They will normally take care of all expenses and maintenance and you may still receive some income after all expenses and rental operation fees. However, this will limit your own vacation time as there are limits to how many weeks you can use it. Most have contracts for a certain period of years and then you can opt out if you like.

7- Another option would be a small entry level condo in an older beach front complex. There are still some options under $200,000 USD located on nice beaches. However, they are small modest units in older building. These do well for economy vacation rentals and you can have a place on the beach without a huge investment.

Vacation rental income is a definite benefit of buying a second Cancun home here in the Mexican Caribbean, but do be realistic and choose wisely. Buy what you can comfortably afford without relying on the rental income and you will enjoy your place in paradise.

Your success as a Mexico Land lord will require that you are a good Landlord and reduce potential costly mistakes that many first time Land lords can make I have written several posts regarding Mexico real estate rental property, and how to best administer such properties, click here to see my previous articles on Rental Properties.

Based on my experiences, I've compiled a list of mistakes often made by land lords.

• Errors on the lease agreement that cause uncertainty in expectations
• Not enforcing rent collections as defined in the lease agreement. If you allow your Tenant to pay at random, your setting a precedence to continue to allow this type of behavior
• Not knowing the specific laws relating to Tenant-Landlord relationships
• Poor response to Maintenance and Service requests
• Not practicing good customer service
• Not conducting a written, detailed move in inspection with their Tenant
• Not maintaining a professional relationship with their Tenant

In most cases, Landlord and Tenant will have some communication, especially if there is not a Property Managerinvolved. However, it's easy to defy the balance of a Tenant-Landlord relationship if mistakes are not kept to a minimum.

Kami Kemp is both a Texas Realtor and Real Estate Broker in Arizona with Prime Properties. She is a member of the Texas Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors and National Association of Residential Property Managers. She began her career in Property Management and Leasing in 1990, has served on various education committees through local associations and has taught many Fair Housing compliance and marketing classes throughout her career. www.TOPmexicorealestate.com 512-879-6546

Many new Landlords with Mexico real estate rentals are unsure what their lease agreement (Contrato de Arrendamiento) really says and if they are truly protected. As with any Mexico legal document, the lease agreement is binding and should be reviewed by all parties carefully.

You will see from my other posts written about rental properties, click here Mexico Real Estate blog, it is important to get correct Mexican legal counsel when working with agreements and contracts Executed leases should be in Spanish with a complimetary English version available.

Key Points on a Mexico Lease Agreement:

• Names of all parties to the lease
• Lease dates
• Rental amount
• Location in which rent is to be paid
• Rent due date
• Late charges
• Security deposit amount
• How maintenance and repairs are to be handled
• Move out notice requirements
• Details about Landlord access to the property
• Utilities and Services
• Condition of the property
• Rules and regulations
• Pets
• Landlord remedies

Although many Mexico Managment Companies use different leases, some are drafted by an Attorney or Notario. Whatever version you or your Property Manager uses, make sure that you have a complete understanding of the document and how it will legally affect you and your Tenant.

Kami Kemp is both a Texas Realtor and Real Estate Broker in Arizona with Prime Properties. She is a member of the Texas Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors and National Association of Residential Property Managers. She began her career in Property Management and Leasing in 1990, has served on various education committees through local associations and has taught many Fair Housing compliance and marketing classes throughout her career. www.TOPmexicorealestate.com 512-879-6546

By now you should have determined if you are hiring a Property Manager for your Mexico Real Estate rental. You've interviewed and have chosen a Property Manager that you are confident with. The Mexico Property Manager that you've chosen has sent you the Property Management Agreement (PMA) and you notice a clause that states that you must deposit funds into a Trust Account with the Property Manager and you wonder

what this sum of money is for…

Many Property Management Companies require a specific amount of money deposited into what's referred to as a Trust Account. This amount can be as little as $100 or $1000 and will vary by Management Companies. Most companies I've had experience with require $250-$500.

Mexico Property Management Trust Accounts

Trust accounts can be complicated but the primary details that you should know are:

• Funds are the property of someone other than the Property Manager
• Funds in a trust account cannot be comingled with personal funds of a Property Manager
• Funds in a trust account are used for property repairs, taxes, insurance, utilities, etc.
• Funds in a trust account can earn interest which can sometimes be kept by the Property Manager
• When a Property Manager pays expenses from an Owner's trust account, there must be enough funds in the account to cover the expenses.
• The Property Management Company will/should provide a detailed accounting report outlining how funds have been disbursed.

Trust accounting is not difficult and experienced Mexico Property Management Companies know how to handle other people's money with care and consideration. However, it is your responsibility to insure you check your statements carefully and ask questions if you notice anything that you are unsure about.

Kami Kemp is both a Texas Realtor and Real Estate Broker in Arizona with Prime Properties. She is a member of the Texas Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors and National Association of Residential Property Managers. She began her career in Property Management and Leasing in 1990, has served on various education committees through local associations and has taught many Fair Housing compliance and marketing classes throughout her career. www.TOPmexicorealestate.com 512-879-6546

It s been my experience that many people, especially those new to Mexico rental investments, believe that property management is easy. The perceived tasks of a property manager is to collect the rent, deposit the rent then wait until the next month to start the process over again. Sounds like little work. Why in the world should you pay for professional Mexico property management services

Regardless if you have one Mexico rental investment or an entire portfolio, property management is a very hands on business. There are many more details in the everydayness of just collecting rent; details that demand a lot of your time and resources

Mexico Property Management Activities

Details will include:

Giving the Mexico Tenant access to the property at move in

Showing the Tenant how each item works in the property

Addressing any maintenance issues they may experience

Pool and lawn maintenance

Tenant move outs

Cleaning the property

Although every Mexico property will have a different list of needs, your Tenant should be viewed as your customer. You need a professional that can cater to your customer and resolve any issues that may arise. After all, the customer ultimately dictates if your Mexico investment property will be profitable or a disaster. A property manager will be the front line person representing you to the customer. Without the customer, you do not have rent revenue and without rent revenue, you are stuck funding the investment yourself.

Questions to Ask a Mexico Property Management Company

When interviewing property management companies, here are a few questions to ask:

What are their fees and when is it paid

How will they handle Tenant issues such as repair requests

What process do they go through to collect rent or what happens if the Tenant does not pay

Will they market the property for rent How

Do they screen the prospective Tenant How

Do they handle all legal contracts between Landlord and Tenant

Do they facilitate any repairs with a contractor Are those contractors licensed in their respective field

What are their hours of operation

What is their accounting method and what reports will they send to you regarding the property

When do they disburse rental funds to you

Who holds the security deposit from the Tenant

What amount of reserve will be required

At what point will they contact you on maintenance or Tenant issues

How often do they inspect the property

Regardless of how many questions you ask, a Mexico Property Manager is your contractor and you must have a comfort level with them. Look for solid credentials, get recommendations and references and make sure they have a good reputation within the community. When searching for a property manager, do your due diligence and pick the one that you feel will be the greatest fit for you and your property.

Kami Kemp is both a Texas Realtor and Real Estate Broker in Arizona with Prime Properties. She is a member of the Texas Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors and National Association of Residential Property Managers. She began her career in Property Management and Leasing in 1990, has served on various education committees through local associations and has taught many Fair Housing compliance and marketing classes throughout her career. MEXICO REAL ESTATE 512-879-6546

If you own a Mexico Real Estate Rental, you will need to learn how to administer the security deposits.The security deposit is any advance of money, other than a rental application deposit or an advance payment of rent that is intended primarily to secure performance under a lease of a dwelling that has been entered into by a landlord and a tenant. (Texas property code Sec92.102).

In Mexico, there are no limits on how much you can charge for a security deposit. For long-term rentals, many Mexican Landlords charge an amount equal to one month s rent and this amount is standard practice.

MEXICO SECURITY DEPOSIT

The security deposit is held by the Landlord, sometimes in an interest-bearing account, until the Tenant fulfills the obligations of the lease agreement. Some areas of Mexico require that you pay the Tenant the interest earned on the deposit and some areas do not. However, the security deposit does not belong to the Landlord it belongs to the Tenant. I always recommend that the property manager in Mexico hold onto the security deposit in a trust account so that there is no confusion on disbursement of this deposit when the Tenant vacates.

When the Tenant vacates, do an inspection of the property. Some landlords prefer to do this inspection with the Tenant and some prefer to do it without the Tenant present. The choice is yours. To avoid potential disputes, make sure that if you are going to deduct any charges for property damages from the Tenant s security deposit, you take pictures of that damage for future record. Do not deduct for normal wear and tear or if the damage were there prior to move in. You can deduct for unpaid rent, late charges, etc.

Send a full itemized report to the Tenant outlining charges and deductions within 30-days of move out.

If you hire a property manager in Mexico, they will handle all aspects of the security deposit for you. If you choose to manage property yourself, familiarize yourself with the Mexico Real Estate laws for the local region so that you know what can and cannot deduct from a security deposit If you want to learn more tips and tricks on how to rent your Mexico Property feel free to visit more of my articles click here or just call me.

Kami Kemp is both a Texas Realtor and Real Estate Broker in Arizona with Prime Properties. She is a member of the Texas Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors and National Association of Residential Property Managers. She began her career in Property Management and Leasing in 1990, has served on various education committees through local associations and has taught many Fair Housing compliance and marketing classes throughout her career. 512-879-6546 www.TOPmexicorealestate.com

“Where TOP real estate experts from ALL regions of Mexico come together to share their Tips & Knowledge to help you buy safely !”

Fair housing may or may not be a term that you ve heard before, and probably even less so in Mexico. Unless you ve been exposed to real estate then you probably never thought twice about what this term truly meant and chances are, it has not affected you I have been writing about several “Mexico Real Estate Rental” themes including (Pets and Rentals) and (How to Land a Good Tenant), so I thought this would be a good subject to include.

As a Landlord, your must educate yourself with the fair housing laws as there are severe penalties associated with violating these laws in the US In Mexico, this is less regulated, however, as a Landlord in a foreign country, it is recommended that you adopt these fair rental practices too.

I m not going to give you a lesson in Fair Housing but will only outline the basic protected classes of people. When deciding on whom you will rent your Mexico property to, NEVER, EVER, make a decision based upon the following:

Race

Color

National Origin

Religion

Sex

Familial Status (including children under the age of 18 and pregnant women)

Handicap

There are many, many variables to the Fair Housing Laws. I encourage each of you to familiarize yourselves with these laws and make it a practice, regardless of which country your rental property is located in, to treat everyone the same and do not discriminate against the below protected classes. This is Federal Law in the US and good ethics in Mexico.

For more information on the Fair Housing Act, click on the link below.

http://www.hud.gov/offices/fheo/FHLaws/yourrights.cfm

Kami Kemp is both a Texas Realtor and Real Estate Broker in Arizona with Prime Properties. She is a member of the Texas Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors and National Association of Residential Property Managers. She began her career in Property Management and Leasing in 1990, has served on various education committees through local associations and has taught many Fair Housing compliance and marketing classes throughout her career. www.TOPmexicorealestate.com 512-879-6546

Allowing pets is just common sense as over 70% of all US households own a pet. Although I have not seen statistics on Mexico s pet population and the relation to the Mexico real estate rental Market, I suspect it is close to the same numbers as in the US. This poses a question that I often ask a Mexico real estate owner when they indicate to me that they would like their property advertised as NO PETS ALLOWED. My question is,Why would you want to eliminate 70% of your potential Tenant base just because you yourself do not like, want, or are opposed to pets

MEXICO REAL ESTATE RENTAL STRATEGIES

By adopting an effective pet policy, you will attract a larger number of potential Tenants, increase the average length of occupancy, and foster goodwill. This does not mean that you must accept all pets but at least consider pets on a case by case basis.

Implement an effective Mexico Pet Policy by

Limiting the number of pets per household

Requiring that all pets have up to date vaccinations

Requiring that all pets be kept on a leash while outside

Requiring a pet deposit

Meeting the pet to witness their demeanor

Requiring that all pet owners pick up after their pet

Have a pet addendum to your lease agreement

With a good pet policy in place and a responsible pet owner as a Tenant, allowing pets in your Mexico rental property can be a win/win for all parties.

Kami Kemp is both a Texas Realtor and Real Estate Broker in Arizona with Prime Properties. She is a member of the Texas Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors and National Association of Residential Property Managers. She began her career in Property Management and Leasing in 1990, has served on various education committees through local associations and has taught many Fair Housing compliance and marketing classes throughout her career. www.TOPmexicorealestate.com 512-879-6546