I developed a strong fondness for Ecuador after a friend of mine bought a place there, and I learned more about the country. Here is nice ~5 minute video to give a little taste.

This week’s featured destination is Mexico, and more specifically, Merida and the Mayan Riveria on the Yucatan Peninsula.

Here is quick overview. I also have a handout that I can send, as well as connect you with an outstanding referral partner who lives and works in the area.

1. Why consider Mexico? Mexico is the United States’ closest neighbor to the south. At no other time in our long histories have the benefits of living and investing in Mexico been more apparent. Mexico has it all: rich culture, excellent climate, afforadable living, and not to mention an amazing topography – from mountains, to deserts, to ocean beaches.
2. What about the economy? With its growing GDP, a higher level of direct investment than any other Latin country, and a current political climate that is more pluralistic and open to investment than any other time of the past seven decades, the risk vs. reward scenario is extremely favorable.
3. Are there incentives to invest in Mexico? While the government does not offer any direct incentives for buying real estate, there are benefits to be realized. For example, property taxes are miniscule in Mexico when compared to most of the United States and Canada. And, sellers may be exempted from paying capital gains taxes on the sale if they can prove they resided in the property for at least six months.
4. Is financing available? Every year, more and more financing sources are becoming available to U.S. and Canadian residents through both U.S. and Mexican banks. Contact us to be connected to a professional that matches your needs.
5. Where are popular retirement destinations in Mexico?  Merida, with its sidewalk cafes, tree-lined streets, and fresh-paint look, is Yucatan’s best-kept secret. Just a half hour from the Gulf-coast beaches, the city of 800,000 is a center of commerce and home to universities, hospitals, friendly locals, and beautiful colonial homes – at a fraction of the cost of other “discovered” enclaves. There is a small expat community who maintains a well-equipped English-language library, and hosts monthly get-togethers. All good and services are readily available as one would expect to find in similarly-sized cities in the U.S. and Canada. The Riviera Maya, is the stretch of Caribbean coastline that runs from Cancun to Tulum. This area is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. There are several intriguing towns along the coast, including Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen. Akumal, and Tulum. Playa del Carmen is now the fastest-growing destination in the state of Quintana Roo.

If you dream of Mexico, or any other area throughout Latin America, please contact me first. It all starts with an initial conversation and a plan, and I love connecting people to other professionals who can help make your dreams happen.

This week’s featured real estate destination is Belize. English-speaking, eco-conscious, stable, and conveniently reached from the United States, Belize is a popular first choice for many.

Here is a quick run-down of common FAQ’s:

1. Are there any restriction on foreign ownership? No, foreigners receive the full bundle of rights of property ownership.
2. What type of residency options exist? Several options are available: after a year, one can apply to become a resident. Following three years of residency, one then can apply to become a citizen. Another option for retirees is to apply for the Qualified Retirement Program (QRP), which have a number of minimal requirements to ensure applicants are able to suppport themselves as retirees (my referral colleage is a registered agent for this process too).
3. What are some popular areas for investors? Popular areas include San Ignacio (famous for its historical ruins), and San Pedro island (with its amazing barrier reef). Property prices in San Ignacio area are substantially lower than on the island.
4. What are typical prices ranges in those areas? Lot prices in San Ignacio run $5,000 – $25,000 depending on presence of utilities; home prices start as little as $110,000. On San Pedro, condo prices can begin in the $140,000 range, with detached single family homes upwards of $275,000 USD.
5. What are typical flying times? Belize can be reached in just over two hours from Houston. From where I live in Portland, Oregon, Houston is about a 4 hour 30 minute flight.

I have an amazing referral partner who lives in Belize, who abides by the same code of ethics and standards of care as a REALTOR in the United States. She blends professionalism and fun perfectly. Please let us know if we can help.

On May 11th, a group of representatives from the National Association of REALTORS and the Certified International Property Specialist network, both of which I am a member, met with officials from the Embassy of Peru in Washington, D.C.

The purpose of our visit was to learn more about the economy and real estate industry of Peru, and assist NAR members to develop business between the United States and Peru.  And while based in the United States, the National Association of REALTORS is also the voice of the industry around the globe, and works with professionals worldwide to advance property rights and consumer protections in their own countries.