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Tulum

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StaceyR
  8/4/2016 07:26 EST

We are looking to move to Tulum and are interested in buying a house. We would love to find one in between town and the beach. We are coming for a trip down in September. In dealing with the realtors so far they have tried to encourage us to get a condo, that is not at all desirable for us, we have 4 dogs. We also have a few birds. Anyway, just thought I would put that out there. I villa would be ok as long as it has a yard for privacy. Thanks!

Tamara1101
  8/4/2016 09:57 EST

I don't have answers for you but I noticed you have 4 dogs and we do too. Where Are you coming from? How are you getting your dogs over to Mexico? I'm overwhelmed with everything as it is and having my dogs makes it even worse. But I can't leave them.

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Cozumeldeb
  8/4/2016 11:06 EST

I highly suggest you listen to advice on condo v house..understand your concern on pets..but many bldgs allow pets..We bought in CZM in 2001 and were definitely leaning towards a house, for many of the reasons you state..long story short, we bought a 4 bed/5 bath ocean front condo and it was the BEST decision ever..for several reasons, security being #1 and sharing of expenses..among other owners. The ability to lock your condo door and travel/return to US etc makes it all worth it.. The # of break-ins increase daily..the peso crash is killing the local people which is a shame, but it has definitely driven crime up. If you still want a house, check out CZM listings some beautiful homes for sale..Plus what happened with the government take over of Illegal businesses in Tulum last month or so..big deal in MX press.

Cozumeldeb
  8/4/2016 11:14 EST

Here is a link on the Tulum government smack down on property..another reason to be careful..getting CLEAR title is the most important thing you need to do.High rated Notary is the most important person in your hunt..watch dicey realtors, few if any licensed..I don't know anyone over there..so would check the ex-pat blogs for recommendations.. The property concerns in Tulum are growing, be careful: http://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2016-06-21/hotels-raided-in-tulum-mexicos-hottest-beach-destination

Launia
  8/4/2016 16:49 EST

My advise is:
Go to Tu.um with your dogs and rent a house or condo. Live like that for one year. Do not believe what real estate agents can advise you. Of course some are good but do not purchase anything on a heart flip. Tulum is not for everyone. Also acquiring property on the coast demand fedeicomiso and it takes time. Make you research living there, buying is one thing, you need to choose your notary, that is your right and and and... You might not receive the right for a fedeicomison. It is not just a grantee thing, and if no fedeicomiso you cannot purchase and might loose a deposit you would have given.
Beware

StaceyR
  8/4/2016 17:19 EST

Thank you so much for your advise! I am trying to get an idea if what it is like so I don't have unreasonable expectations when I get there and won't have a lot of time to see realtors and explore when we are down there. On a whim and what I have heard about Tulum, the atmosphere and such I love what I see but the reality of everyday life is something I am interested in and I was thinking the property by the beach was most affected and maybe corrupt buying so I opted for the jungle, lol. That being said this is serious like you are saying about purchase so I look forward to information. I would like any information that there may be about land and property in between Tulum and Playa Del Carmen. We don't want big city life. We love nature so we must be in or close to and would like to be just a little walk or ride to the beach. Any ideas? I was really attracted to the spiritual and quaintness of Tulum or what I thought it is. Thanks!!!

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RVGRINGO
  8/4/2016 17:58 EST

Launia has given good advice.
Have you determined that you qualify for residence visas for Mexico? You must apply at a Mexican consulate in the USA and there are financial proofs required, etc. There are many things that are difficult and even impossible to accomplish with only an FMM visitante visa. There is more homework than just that required for renting or buying a home. Of course, there is always the question, “Why Tulum?“.

StaceyR
  8/4/2016 18:10 EST

Im pretty certain we qualify. We are just preparing and taking steps, not fleeing, Lol. My husband is retired but only 56 yrs. old so I believe we qualify for the income amount and such. We have an attorney that is well fluent in Mexican laws and language so nothing will be done without his overseeing and we are selling all our properties here and plan on paying cash for our home. We will be coming in September to explore and get a better idea. As I said before we plan on buying a house or Villa, we aren't going to waste money on rent, it may take a few trips to find what we want.
We like Tulum because of the Bohemian type atmosphere and being close to the Mayan ruins, our whole family loves nature, my husband and daughter hike and I love walking. I am very spiritual not religious, nature is my church. I love to meditate so I don;t want to be in the center of a lot of noise and excitement. The last thing I want to live by is a Walmart. I want fresh healthy food and quaint restaurants when we do eat out. Any ideas? If Tulum is not for us. The hubby likes privacy, a condo is out of the question. Thanks y'all! This will help and give me information for when we come in September for the right Realtor and questions to ask.

StaceyR
  8/4/2016 18:14 EST

We are coming from Texas so we hope to drive our dogs over after we come see what it's like talk to who we need to talk to. So far what I have heard is that they just have to have health certificates, We hope that is just the same with our birds as well.
I totally understand your being overwhelmed, where are you coming from? Where are you going in Mexico?

StaceyR
  8/4/2016 18:18 EST

Thank you for the advice! Thankfully we have an attorney familiar with Mexican law and language and nothing will go by without his overseeing. We may make a couple of trips to visit, we are only in Texas so we don't plan to rent. I look forward to seeing after my post though information and enjoy the input so when I do get down there I know what to look for and what to ask. Thanks for helping!

bgrateful
  8/4/2016 18:24 EST

I think whoever wrote this post is stereotyping.what he did wrong was to be in the states without permission that is enough to get you deported.. This is being done every day.

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Launia
  8/4/2016 18:44 EST

Having dogs in Mexico is like everwhere else.
Find a good vet and keep them in your yard.
To bring the. Innthe country, the regulations to customs clear them with their vaccination certificate and health certificate from the States. The internet is full of advise on how to.
Of course, if they fly, you need a customs broker at arrival, to clear the dogs, otherwise it might take a while to get them out of cargo.
Bringing them by car, I have no idea

StaceyR
  8/4/2016 21:51 EST

We are going to try to bring them by car unless we find out otherwise, we just live in Texas. Thanks! I can't wait to come over!

MsAlex
  8/5/2016 08:42 EST

Renting before buying in Mexico makes sense. You refer to wasting money on rent, but what you may not realize is that properties in Mexico are not necessarily bought and sold quickly. You may find it to be "easy to buy" and take "years to sell", and in the meantime, real estate values are not necessarily going up.

The likelihood that right off the bat, without truly knowing your options in this great big country, you make the "right" decision, and actually buy something that makes you very happy for the long term, well... that has about the same odds as winning the lottery.

We're extremely happy with our lives in Mexico... but even after decades of vacation/travel here during which we got to know a lot about Mexico, it took the experience of LIVING IN three different locations (each a different region) before we found the place we want to live long term in Mexico. A quick purchase RARELY ends well.

I know it's in our culture to always want to own our home. We always presume that's the right thing to do. But be careful. This is a new experience for you and you need to EXPERIENCE IT before making long term decisions.

(Don't say nobody told you.)

Cozumeldeb
  8/5/2016 12:35 EST

Here is a link on the Tulum government smack down on property..another reason to be careful..getting CLEAR title is the most important thing you need to do.High rated Notary is the most important person in your hunt..watch dicey realtors, few if any licensed..I don't know anyone over there..so would check the ex-pat blogs for recommendations.. The property concerns in Tulum are growing, be careful: http://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2016-06-21/hotels-raided-in-tulum-mexicos-hottest-beach-destination

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 12:44 EST

Thanks so much for making me aware! We have an attorney fluent in Mexican law and language thankfully and won't do anything w/o his checking it out. I would love recommendations of a good realtor in that area or the whole Yucatan Peninsula.

Cozumeldeb
  8/5/2016 12:49 EST

Your attorney might want to brush up on MX immigration law..it makes no difference whether you own or rent and nor do they need to see your trust..if you fall in that catagory based on your final location. The MX consulate in your area is who you will deal with and an attorney is not required for that, just your proof of income, they prefer pension/social security documentation and will probably require more docs if you don't have those..I would suggest you search your local MX sites when you settle for the name of a good attorney (not easy to find) to handle docs at MX immigration, just goes a lot faster and you can be sure you have all required docs..fairly cheap, $300 USD each, worth it. I also 2nd whoever said, don't buy to quickly..spend a year and rent in areas you are interested in..We bought in 2001 after visiting for 12 yrs..lovers of the ocean..I saw some of the things important to your family..This past winter we went to Guanjanto and San Miguel Allende for a week's visit..These are in the mountains in central MX..SMA was just rated #1 destitnation..spirituality lives there..Good Luck with your search..hope you consider the advice, anyone down here in paradise, has lots of stories about people who came down here and then disappointed, usually by not taking proper steps..

Cozumeldeb
  8/5/2016 12:54 EST

Unless you are married to the ocean, Guanajuato or San Miguel Allende may be your idea of heaven..Guanajuato is a university town with 3 top level universities there..and with everything that brings, singing in the street, great restaurants, wonderful vibe and bohemian style..San Miguel Allende is little more upscale, stunningly beautiful small city, very wealthy city..google them beautiful locations.

RVGRINGO
  8/5/2016 13:08 EST

Stacy:
Be careful. A Mexican attorney (abogado) does not handle, and cannot handle real estate matters. Only specialized attorneys (Notarios), appointed by the state, can deal with such things. If you have an Abogado, he will have to hire a Notario, but may not tell you that. If your attorney does not hold a Mexican cedula, he has no standing at all. Be very, very cautious. By the way: There is no regulation of real estate agencies or sales people in Mexico. Be even more cautious. Having lived in Mexico for over 13 years, until recently due to health at 78, I can also suggest that your rent until you get to know the country, investigate other non-tourist areas, and learn a lot more about how things are done and who to trust. You are on your own, without the protections you take for granted in the USA, etc. In any conflict of interest, you will lose.

Launia
  8/5/2016 13:10 EST

Alex wrote absolutely right

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 13:10 EST

Thanks so much for the advice! Where did you end up settling down? Did you love it?

Launia
  8/5/2016 13:14 EST

I would not base on what one attorney or a notary or a real estate agent say.
As someone mentioned, the consulate will tell you exactly.

Launia
  8/5/2016 13:16 EST

Wow. That sounds better than Tulum!!
Am keeping notes.
I am in Chetumal on the Bahia. I decided too quickly to build and hard to sell now.

RVGRINGO
  8/5/2016 14:11 EST

We settled in Ajijic from 2001-2004, then sold and moved to Chapala, where we remained until 2015. Failing health and too many expensive surgeries forced us to move to Tucson for the VA Hospital benefits and Medicare. Chapala is still “home“ and I miss it terribly. Unfortunately, COPD makes even visiting higher elevations out of the question now, and I need the free VA oxygen service. That damned clock is ticking too fast......

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 14:46 EST

Oh yes, I looked at Chapala for a minute but I do like it tropical so we are wanting to not be too far from the beach. I would love ocean view, not right on it but able to see the ocean and feel the breeze. Do you have any ideas or suggestions for those areas ? I like Tulum because of the videos I've seen.

Cozumeldeb
  8/5/2016 15:11 EST

Guanajuato & San Miguel Allende are not near Chapla..We took the bus to Guadalajara from SMA to catch a flight back to Cozumel..Both areas are stunners to at least check out on Google..SMA is sort of "star studded," Bill Gates, Selma Hyack several stars have homes there but very low key..

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 15:44 EST

I'm sorry about the health issues. Yes, you're right though, we want to do this before we are too old. We are 52 and 57, we also are bringing our 21 yr old daughter so ideally we would like to find a place maybe with a casita, ha!

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 15:47 EST

Thanks so much for the advice! I will definitely check into Cozumel. If you have any legit realtor names or sites please let me know.

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 15:51 EST

Thank you! What is the reality of Tulum? I see videos that iit is a very peaceful, spiritual nice place to live, is there more to it? Thanks! Narrowing down places and trying to get real facts.

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 15:53 EST

Thank you! I will definitely Google San Miguel Allende

Launia
  8/5/2016 15:54 EST

Just in case. What budget do you have in mind.
I have a property for sale on the Bahia of Chetumal, Quintana Roo, safe, clean water,
And not as rough when hurricanes strike.


FRANCE LAUNIA SCHWOB SULLIVAN
My Mexico Caribbean Property for sale
http://schwobrealestate.simpl.com/index.html
Email [email protected]
Cheers
France

Launia
  8/5/2016 15:59 EST

I travelled all the coast before settling in.
I did not like Tulum, the main road passes through the town, a lot of bagpackers, for anything you have to drive to Cancun or Chetumal, for medical as well and etc.
I did not like that multiple small hotels on the beach. Well now many have been expropriated.
I find the town trashy.
And certainly not welcoming.

Launia
  8/5/2016 16:08 EST

There are tons of beautiful places in Mexico.
How do you want to live?
All Quintana Roo and Yucatan, superb but six months of the year, humid not that hot. And six months comfortable. Do you wish to live with air conditioners, aways from the city or the village? Away from doctors and good shopping? Live near expat community? Or away from it?
If purchasing a house it often takes long to sell and all the responsibilities to maintain in an humid climate. At 50 we do not think of health but it happens and then what to? Need to sell a house that does not sell. Pay medical bills in Mexico that can be expensive. Consulting a doctor is for sure cheap and that drives us to forget what about we need specialists and special treatments? We can find all here and very good but the cost of it. Going back to the state when sick and may be no health insurance. I think all are questions I would wish to have asked myself at 50. I am now 70.

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 18:44 EST

Thanks for sharing your experience! We are from Texas so we are used to the heat and humidity, it's cooler there than it here. We would like to be close to the ocean not necessarily right on it. We like small town with markets and shops, quaint. We don't care if we live close to other expats or not. I think we want a house or a villa would work but has to be pretty large or have a casita, our 21 year old will be coming with. Any ideas?

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 18:44 EST

Thanks for sharing your experience! We are from Texas so we are used to the heat and humidity, it's cooler there than it here. We would like to be close to the ocean not necessarily right on it. We like small town with markets and shops, quaint. We don't care if we live close to other expats or not. I think we want a house or a villa would work but has to be pretty large or have a casita, our 21 year old will be coming with. Any ideas?

RVGRINGO
  8/5/2016 19:03 EST

There are very good reasons why those nasty European conquistadores built the colonial cities where they did; mostly at higher elevations, where civilized comforts could be enjoyed year-round in spring-like tropical climates. A few coastal cities were necessary for ports/trade/defense, but otherwise were rather uninhabitable for much of the year, as far as European bodies could endure. It is still true, and even with very expensive air conditioning, things like electronics have a short life span and expats tend to turn to drink.
My basic rule: The beaches are wonderful, spectacular, romantic and great places to visit for a week or so in the winter months. From Guadalajara, Chapala or other such places, you can drive to the beaches in just a few hours, or fly in 45 minutes; but I sure would not want to live below 5000 feet in Mexico permanently. Folks who do, usually own multiple homes. I can only afford one. Many expats are sucked into resort destinations, but later move inland and to higher elevations. Some like cities, such as Mexico, Guadalajara, San Miguel, San Luis Potosi, Qurétero, Guanajuato, etc., etc., but the majority of expats have settled in Jalisco at Chapala, Ajijic or Jocotopec. Some of them on their second or third bounce in Mexico. There must be a reason. Better to be a quick study than a slow learner. You will soon learn that beach resorts and tourist destinations really do attract vultures.....beware.

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 19:58 EST

Thank you! Yes, I am researching. We personally like it tropical, we live in Texas and the lower levels are not as hot as it is here. But looking elsewhere isn't out of the question. Like you said I'm researching so Ill have info by our first visit in September. You have been very helpful if you think of anything else let me know. We will definitely keep an eye out for the scammers and keep looking for legitimate real estate.

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 20:04 EST

Thank you! That's why I am on here to get advice and I appreciate it. We won't just jump into something, we live in Texas, not far a good advantage on making trips. Where all did you live and where did you end up happy and what was it that you liked and did not like about the other places?
Thanks for your input! I appreciate it.

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 20:14 EST

Aw, that is not what I saw in the description or videos of that town. I was attracted to the senotes, the beach and the town being

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 20:19 EST

Aw, that is not what I saw in the description or videos of that town. I was attracted to the senotes, the beach and the town being close. Friends that I have that have visited there said the same that it was like a magical place, I am looking to be able to walk or moped to town or the beach. I liked that most of Tulum advertises to be eco-friendly, I do wonder if there is a down side to that. We are really healthy but our 21 year old will be accompanying us with our move there, with our 4 dogs and a couple of birds. We really want to live in nature. We are open to other places but are not wanting to live in a large city with Walmarts, McDonalds and Wingstops. We want small town, fresh markets, healthy and holistic.

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 20:19 EST

Aw, that is not what I saw in the description or videos of that town. I was attracted to the senotes, the beach and the town being close. Friends that I have that have visited there said the same that it was like a magical place, I am looking to be able to walk or moped to town or the beach. I liked that most of Tulum advertises to be eco-friendly, I do wonder if there is a down side to that. We are really healthy but our 21 year old will be accompanying us with our move there, with our 4 dogs and a couple of birds. We really want to live in nature. We are open to other places but are not wanting to live in a large city with Walmarts, McDonalds and Wingstops. We want small town, fresh markets, healthy and holistic.

StaceyR
  8/5/2016 20:27 EST

It cut part of my reply off, sorry. I had a friend who visited and loved it and spoke of it being a magical place with lots of small markets and shops. We don't want o live in a large city. We are in great health and our 21 year old daughter will be accompanying us with our 4 dogs and a couple of birds. We also liked that the homes we have looked at online say they are eco friendly and we like that though I do wonder what and if there is a downside to that. Thank you for sharing your experience with me! Did you tell me where you ended up settling? I apologize if you did, I am trying to respond back and forget who I have asked, I'm new to this.

Launia
  8/5/2016 22:03 EST

I have had an apartment in Telluride, and Telluride is what I call quaint. Tulum is not quaint.
Ajjijic could be called quaint. I loved it.
Some people talk about San Miguel de Allende. I believe it is quiet nice.
In Quintana Roo, from Cancun to Chetumal, I do not see any quaint places.
I love it here and I love my property but the quaint idea is not. I sould almost say that in Belize, may be.

Launia
  8/5/2016 22:07 EST

Exactly said. On the coast a house demands a lot of maintenance and expenses and equipment like over, refrigerator, air conditioner, washing machine, computer, watch, oven just to name a few are mostly changed every three years.

Launia
  8/5/2016 22:12 EST

In quintana roo, due to the climate, fresh markets do not really exist as you would think in the states. In Quintana Roo most fish to purchase is frozen and come from wherever on the planet.
I might sound so down. No. But just to know that in Quintana Roo, yes the ocean, but you will not find what you love in the states. You wish to find exactly what .i am missing here.
So teavel and exlore all the coast and rent.. And be careful

Launia
  8/5/2016 22:26 EST

I find this forum a little complicated as to know once we read a comment who was it when we answer.
Have your daughter come and stay for a while but give her a lot of space to choose.
What will she do? Study? Then for studies, Chetumal University, Merida, Guadalajara and etc.
I am 70 years old, travelled and worked most of my life on different continents. Somethimes my comments might sound harsh. There is not paradise around here as for escape. Being a foreigner is not always an easy duty to deal with all legality. I do not know where your lawyer is from, but I would be careful even if it is your best friend. You would be dealing in a foreign country. As freinds saying Tulum is magical and whatever. Of course when someone stays in a nice hotel, do yova, massage that is magical but when you start being responsible for a home in those climates and being in Tulum far from everything, the magic slow down.
As some advises you, for purchasing you need a Fedeicomiso that has nothing to do with immigration and as you were advised earlier to purchase a property you do not need a lawyer but a notary (who is a layer specalized with more years in notarial laws). You were advised that even if your good lawyer wants to help you he will find a notary because notaries have law firms dealing with realestate and other matters.
Fedeicomiso once you have done all the legal stuff, the bank that will keep your title will charge as a prorata of the value of your property and you will have to ask permission to the bank to change anything. I chose the corporation status but, I need an accountant in Mexico by law, and one in the States because it is all so complicated. You transfer your money to Mexico, yearly you are obliged to declare the amount on your foreign bank accounts FBAR and of course your annual IRS declaration. I consider that a lot or work and responsibilities for someone who want to retire and have leasure and magical.
Just very important points you should add to your list.
For instance if some one think That not to bother about the Irs and foreign bank accounts, well the Mexican banks will report it to the UsA.
Easy but never forget anything when being overseas.. There is this lien to our home countries. Remember that most accountants in Texas do not always understand our obligations.
I know by experience.

StaceyR
  8/6/2016 01:12 EST

Are the places you named that you like in the upper cooler areas.? Since we're from Texas and have family here and are bringing animals and antiques, sentimental family stuff as well as clothes. We chose Mexico because we can drive back fly back and family can as well pretty quickly so we are not wanting to move to an island.. We like the humidity not the dry air so that's why i am looking for tropical. Thanks!

StaceyR
  8/6/2016 01:13 EST

Thank you!

DaninTextoMex
  8/6/2016 09:49 EST

Hi Launia, how are you doing after Earl? Are you on the water?

Cozumeldeb
  8/6/2016 10:08 EST

Whew, you are getting loads of advice..but that's a good thing..i would say nix Belize, many are flowing out of there, crime is a big issue there..Another spot that is developing in the area u r interested in is Valladodia (misspelled) colonial area..cenotes nearby..did u look at Akumal or Puerto Morales, small beach front towns? Beach towns nearby Progresso? Tip of Yucatan, water not like caribbean for sure..yucatanliving.com is a free online mag, loads of info ask about small beach towns and you'll get some good insider info, sister site yolisto.com, buying &selling site..cozumel best site is cozumel4u.com..i saw someone mentioned Ajijica..we were there last yr for just a day..darling sweet little town..that area claims near perfect climate, internal spring..don't know your time line, of moving but lots to explore..Cozumel does have a full service airport all major carriers.

StaceyR
  8/6/2016 11:36 EST

Yes, lots of advice but that's why I'm doing this, I think it will keep us from being terribly overwhelmed and maybe even disappointed when we come down. I find your advice very valuable cause yes those small towns you mentioned don't show up first hand in my investigative searches, lol. I am so glad that your being familiar with the area helps me narrow down our search when we come in September. I am just doing doing something everyday to put us that much closer. I am so thankful for you all equipping me with this info!!!! Next week Ill start inquiries with the Consulate :)
Thanks again! If you think if any others please let me know :)

RVGRINGO
  8/6/2016 14:19 EST

Stacy;
I think I now know your wishes a little better. First: Do not discount the central highlands of west-central Mexico in the tropical zone. That is where comfort lies, small towns abound, and where Jalisco is the bread-basket of Mexico, offering lifestyles you will enjoy, while still having access to Pacific beaches and the Guadalajara International Airport for easy access to TX, However, if you really, really are convinced that you want to live at or near the beach, I urge you to look to the smaller towns on the Pacific coastal areas of Jalisco and Colima. The following can be found on Google and Google Maps & are an easy drive from Guadalajara or Purto Vallarta airports: (From South to North along the coast) Manzanillo, La Manzanilla, Cuyutlan, Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerias, Sayulita, Rincon de Guyabitos, Lo de Marcos, San Francisco (called San Pedro), Chacala, etc.
Now you have your work cut out for you. If you really want my favorite beach/seafood easy drive to GDL or PV; choose Chacala and you will never look at the east side of Mexico again. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chacala It is truly laid back, but has recently been discovered. Should have kept my mouth shut. We used to also rent a place in Las Peñitas de jaltembe, nearby, called Casa Fortuna, which you might want to investigate as a place to rent while exploring that coast. Check VRBO, I think.
By the way, Mexico has several retional airlines, which fly to TX, but do not pop up on the usual US websites. They are excellent and very economical. Look them up individually when you have a chance.

RVGRINGO
  8/6/2016 14:31 EST

I found it: https://www.vrbo.com/90980
It is 4BR, so we used to rent it for a week with a few other couples from Chapala. Chacala was our favorite beach, just north, while our favorite restaurants were there, and in Rincon de Guyabitos; just south.

Enjoy

Launia
  8/6/2016 15:22 EST

Belize has no more crimes than Mexico.
You are reading the wrong news.
I live in both countries.
Just my little opinion. When it comes to crimes, there is no place to be safe on this planet.
Promoting Cozumel is fine but it is still an island, expensice and with hurricanes, i would certainly not purchase on an island.

Launia
  8/6/2016 15:23 EST

Interjet through Austin, is excellent

Launia
  8/6/2016 15:29 EST

Hello back to you. Yes we are on the water but it is the bahia of chetumal. There is a very nearrow island that protects. The water is not deep. That is so good. This is the thir hurricane we survived since 2006. The house is above sea level and 40 meters away with an elevation of 5 meters from the water level. I hope I am a good sell person. Hey i want to sell my property that has become too much for us... To downsize...
What about yourseld.

RVGRINGO
  8/6/2016 18:17 EST

Our Chapala home, with a casita, would have fit Stacey‘s needs, but we sold it before leaving.
By the way, the topography of the east and west coasts are very different, and the west coast has beautiful mountains with almost alpine villages, as well as virtually no Atlantic type storms coming straight at you from Africa. The air off the pacific is clear and there are no oil platforms offshore on the Pacific. The eastern side of Mexico does have cenotes, sinkholes with a romantic name, but I prefer waterfalls, fantastic food choices, tropical fruits & juices, and normal prices. Those government promoted tourist traps are not for me, and are not for seasoned expats unless they are part of the tourist industry & still working.
Yes, Interjet & Volaris fly north of the border, as does Aeromexico.

tomwins
  8/6/2016 18:46 EST

RVGringo, I'm really glad you contribute and enjoy sharing your opinion.

mattoleriver
  8/7/2016 02:32 EST

StacyR,
I think I recall reading that it is nearly impossible to bring birds into Mexico and even more difficult to take them out again. You may want to do some research on this.
matt

StaceyR
  8/7/2016 12:10 EST

Ok, Thanks Matt!!! I will :)

StaceyR
  8/7/2016 12:13 EST

Great!!! Thanks so much for the information, it is very helpful.

StaceyR
  8/7/2016 12:13 EST

Great!!! Thanks so much for the information, it is very helpful.

StaceyR
  8/7/2016 12:13 EST

Great!!! Thanks so much for the information, it is very helpful.

StaceyR
  8/7/2016 12:13 EST

Great!!! Thanks so much for the information, it is very helpful.

StaceyR
  8/7/2016 12:13 EST

Great!!! Thanks so much for the information, it is very helpful.

StaceyR
  8/7/2016 12:13 EST

Great!!! Thanks so much for the information, it is very helpful.

StaceyR
  8/7/2016 12:16 EST

Are you selling the house you are now living in Chetumal?

StaceyR
  8/7/2016 12:16 EST

Are you selling the house you are now living in Chetumal?

StaceyR
  8/7/2016 12:19 EST

Yea, I don't want to live on an island, hoping to move some of our stuff from Texas, I will talk to the consulate this week about customs and such. It would be too hard to move to an island for family to come visit and etc. That's why we chose Mexico

StaceyR
  8/7/2016 12:20 EST

Sorry I hit the post reply not thinking it was working, I won't do that anymore

RVGRINGO
  8/7/2016 13:10 EST

Stacey,
The Mexican consulate, and embassy, are part of SRE (Secretariat de Relaciones Exteriores), much like our State Department. Please do not rely upon them for information regarding any other agencies. Mexicans are so polite that they will give you convincing answers with a smile, never a negative, and often quite outdated or wrong.
Customs (Aduana) has separate websites with contact information and you can get as many answers as the people you ask.....:).....also sometimes out of date or wrong.
So, if you are to ship household goods, simply ask the consulate for a menaje de casa, permission for free import, once, withing 6 months as I recall. Frankly, I usually recommend against bringing much, as shipping is so expensive that replacing stuff is a better move. Besides, a house full of US-type stuff in a Mexican home looks really out of place....weird, really. Enjoy the adventure of having new furniture made, etc.
By the way; your daughter will need separate financial proofs in her own name, for a year, to qualify for her residence visa, as she is an adult. The exception might be if she were mentally or physically dependent on you for life. If possible, she should try for Residente Permanente, so that she could work in Mexico.

Launia
  8/7/2016 13:44 EST

Stacey. Yes. I am.
Not sure on this forum to send you my info
Lets try
Just in case .. We built it, loved it, but need to downsize now,
At least it will give you a sense of an another place in Mexico. It is all detailed.



FRANCE LAUNIA SCHWOB SULLIVAN
My Mexico Caribbean Property for sale
http://schwobrealestate.simpl.com/index.html
Email [email protected]
Cheers
France

Launia
  8/7/2016 13:47 EST

Just sent you info. On previous message.
I am not trying to push my property but it will show another area in mexico...

topmex
  8/25/2016 19:30 EST

Hi Stacy, According to what I read you will love Tulum, maybe Akumal which is between Playa del Carmen and Tulum even better, We have a very large expat community here and the vast majority are very very happy. There is a free webinar with an Expat that lives in Tulum on August 31 I would like to invite you to register and ask all the questions you have to someone that is an expert on the area http://www.topmexicorealestate.com/events/webinar/aug-16.php?art=Video_promo2&web=expatexchange Let me know if there is anything else you want to know. You are right this place is healing, magical and spiritual, we want more neighbors like you =)

StaceyR
  8/25/2016 23:53 EST

Great! Thanks so much for the info!!! Yes, we have looked st Akumal as well and either of those I think would be a wonderful fit for us. Thanks for the invite for the webinar and for reaching out! I look forward to any and all info you have to offer on Tulum or Akumal.

Cozumeldeb
  8/26/2016 08:31 EST

sorry i came in late to this chat, so perhaps you've had alteady discussed the Tulum problems. in June the goverment raided Tulum throwing people out of hotels, homes & closing shops & restaruants etc. google new york times article on Tulum..its all about illegal land purchases..much of it is closed and anyone's guess when it will be settled, probably years. Akmul may be your best choice, especially if u plan to buy not rent..as my name implies, we live in cozumel, and its heaven, so might want to give it a look see, good ex pat community.

souix
  8/29/2016 12:30 EST

Aren't MOSQUITOES bad....on the coastal areas of Guatemala???????

That's what I have heard!

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