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Advice on Moving to Mexico

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Goldengirl4
  9/2/2017 15:59 EST

Hello All:

Like many Americans, I have been in the process of researching the prospect of moving to Mexico, but first, a little about myself, with a few initial questions, and what I am searching for…

My name is Maureen, and I am 56 years old, single, and currently live in Ohio. I have worked as a physician assistant (PA) since 1992. The only place I recently visited in Mexico is PV, which I really liked, mainly due to learning a bit about the Mexican culture and its people.

My main reasons for considering a move to Mexico are: change of scenery (tired of cold winters/snow, and always dreamed of living in a beautiful sunny area near an ocean), lower cost of living, and residing within a culture apart from the U.S., but close enough that I can easily visit the States when needed.

I desire a safe, semi-low to moderately priced area with blue ocean/white sandy beaches, and tolerable temps (not too hot/humid) all year-round, with a sufficient population of English-speaking expats and singles. I would like to find a place (a rental to start before committing to a purchase) that is located on a beach with a pool, and reasonable town access to shopping, entertainment, restaurants, and events, yet, not overly infested with tourists. Of course, any areas that are considered, I would extensively visit first. Just would like to find a starting point.

Questions…

~What are the best books to read for Americans that totally encompass transitioning from the U.S. and living in Mexico?

~What are some of the most reliable websites for exploring rentals/real estate, and honest contacts when in Mexico for viewing these properties?

~As mentioned, I hold a medical Master’s degree, however, my profession will not allow me to practice medicine in Mexico, therefore, will have to explore other options to earn a living while I wait for retirement age. What professions in Mexico are most available for Americans?

~Due to high prices on some items in Mexico, I would like to bring some things from my current residence, such as, a vehicle, furniture, computers, TVs, etc… Is this reasonable, and how difficult is it to bring these items into Mexico?

~What is the best way to learn the language? i.e. Rosetta Stone, etc…

~What are the policies for bringing a pet (dogs) into the country?

I apologize if my post is redundant, but will certainly appreciate any feedback and advice...

Cozumeldeb
  9/2/2017 17:28 EST

GoldenGirl4, Since u are not ready to leave US this minute, I would suggest you contact an international headhunter. There are loads of American Companies/Factories in MX. I'd think they might have a need for an employee with medical backgrounds. As to the items u want to bring, car could be an issue and think u will need a temp visa. Contact your closest MX Consultant. In OH. for your residency.
Most bigger cities have a Costco + Sam's Club so u can get TV's there..most people find it easier to sell or give stuff away rather than the hassle of dragging it with u. Might also take a look around the Guadalajara area, 2nd biggest city in MX. Loads of ex-pats in and around there. 3 medical schools + world ranked hospitals. Lastly Google ex-pat sites of areas u are interested in, they can give u the best advice on areas, check weather patterns, rent in areas of interest for at least 3-4+ mos. Also around GDL and San Miguel Allende area there are several Spanish immersion schools. Remember May-Sept is the hot, humid summer beachfront summer mos. Many ex-pats go to the mountains during those sweltering mos..cheap rents for a few mos. Guanjuanto might be an area of interest, 3 major universities there..beautiful, loads of culture, 45 minute drive to San Miguel Allende..Happy Hunting.

Welcome Home MexicoWelcome Home Mexico
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Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Welcome Home MexicoWelcome Home Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

katzgar
  9/2/2017 18:00 EST

most all beaches in MX are infested with either tourists or expats. leave wood and leather at home, the humidity will destroy it. leave expensive items at home for security purposes. have a way back home planned if things go south so to speak. do not buy real estate until you learn the lay of things. fraud in MX has its unique aspects.

giershift43
  9/2/2017 18:20 EST

I just wanted to say Hi and that I am also in Ohio. I am retired and have been exploring moving to Mexico for a while . I am interested in hearing the advice you get. If I didn't have a grandchild here, I think I would have left by now.

rmajijic
  9/3/2017 01:15 EST

That's a very long list of requirements. I had to chuckle when you said you wanted a comfortable climate on the ocean. Living on the ocean, either side, is fantastic but is quite unbearable for most people for 6 months of the year. All depends on your internal temperature. You may be able to hack it or not.
You should consider Lake Chapala. Here is a link to a blog from a Texan who made the move and goes through the first 5 years of his transition. It is great but long reading.
https://sites.google.com/site/ouradventureinchapala/about-our-blog
Lake Chapala has was one of the best climates in the world (2nd best according to one National Geographic article many years ago) and has attracted ex-pats for decades. The ocean is only 3 hours away and many (those who can afford it) have residences in both.
Good luck on you research. You still have a lot of questions to be answered.

RVGRINGO
  9/3/2017 12:29 EST

Don‘t forget that you will have to qualify for a residence visa, temporary or permanent, unless you plan to visit and leave Mexico every 180 days as a tourist, with the restrictions that go with being a tourist vs. being a legal resident.

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