FAQs

On the beach or off the beach?

There appear, repeat "appear" to be more properties available on the beach than off the beach. The reason for this is that beach casas are second homes that more well-to-do owners put on the market. Beach properties are, of course, more expensive – upwards of $200,000. Conchita can advise you about hurricane risk, insurance issues and potential structural problems in older properties.

The off the beach scenario is quite different. These you have to search for. There are fewer listings because there are fewer second homes off the beach. Most of these casas or terranos are owned by local folks who are interested in selling but have not listed. Conchita can explore these opportunities.

Buy or build?

The advantage of building new, is that you get up-to-date wiring, plumbing, and the advantage of recent innovations in building materials. The most important is insulation, particularly if you are a planning to be a long-term or permanent resident. Conchita has experience with contracting and building.

If you buy you should expect to renovate some of the plumbing and most of the electricity. Think basic 1950s-60s cottages. Most places are not designed for winter living. A pre-inspection of any property is key to avoiding future problems. Conchita's approach is to have a master mason inspect the property where a preliminary estimate can be made of renovation costs, upgrades to electrical and plumbing, new windows and doors and any additions.

Read The New York Times article Merida: Finding a Home (Cheerios Included) in Mexico.

Renting?

How much time will you spend here...and what months? Do you plan to rent for part of the time?

There is a growing market for rentals...to snowbirds and Mexicans. July and August rates are the highest of the year when local families rent for summer vacation. Conchita can advise you on rental options too.