An Expat Talks about Moving to Lake Chapala, Mexico

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Lake Chapala

What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

Rent your first house for a 2-3 month period while you look over the entire area and decide where you really want to rent, then go for a long term lease at a reduced rate. Use every resource available to you in your new area. Don't think you can learn it on your own. We thought we could and suffered for it. Take the help that others want to give.

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

We have a large home, 2 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, jacuzzi, sauna, washer dryer fridge stove and completely furnished. Mexican style home with 12 foot ceilings and a huge yars. It is typical of this area. It is much better than what we had in Canada and less expensive. $600 a month.

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

Much much lower than Toronto. Average rental cost is 600-700 a month.