Positive Rocky Point article BY JUDY HEDDING

October 19, 2018 by mexicanbeachbum

I subscribe to several news outlets and came across this article. A very nice positive article about Rocky Point:

https://www.tripsavvy.com/rocky-point-travel-guide-and-tips-4175419 BY JUDY HEDDING (Thank you Judy!)

Arizona residents have long flocked to Rocky Point to spend some time near the ocean. Still, a very popular Spring Break destination (don’t fall for the Spring Break scam!), Puerto Peñasco, known in the U.S. as Rocky Point, continues to grow as a resort destination. Rocky Point has RV parks, hotels, golf courses and a wide variety of restaurants and clubs. Timeshares are everywhere, and Americans buy beach condos. Many people take their RV to Rocky Point. Beach activities are plentiful. You can fish, snorkel, sail, scuba dive, and go whale watching in the winter months.

Documents Needed to Drive to Rocky Point

What do you need to take with you to drive to Rocky Point and return to the U.S.? You need a passport or passport card. If you are driving (as opposed to taking a tour bus) you must drive a vehicle that is registered in your name.

Rocky Point is south of Phoenix, in Mexico. The drive to Rocky Point is about 215 miles from Phoenix if you take Route 85 through Gila Bend. Once you get to Ajo, you have about 95 miles to go. From the border at Lukeville, it’s 68 more miles to Rocky Point. It is about a four- to five-hour drive from Phoenix, depending on what part of town you are leaving from, what time of day, and how you drive.

Drive west on I-10 from Phoenix to the State Route 85 exit. Go south on SR 85, passing through Gila Bend. Continue south on SR 85 to Ajo, the largest town between Phoenix and the border. It makes a good stop for any last minute shopping. Continue south on SR 85 to Why where you can fill up with gas. Continue south through Organ Pipe National Monument to the border at Lukeville, AZ. You can buy supplies and gas in Lukeville, too.

Cross the border into Sonoita. About 2 miles from the border you will come to a three-way intersection. Stay to the left (towards Caborca). You’ll come to a fork in the road. The signs are clear—follow the signs to Puerto Peñasco or Pto Peñasco. Take this road all the way to Rocky Point.

Protect Your Car

Make sure your auto registration is current. Your American insurance does not cover you when driving in Mexico. Things happen in Rocky Point just like they can happen here—tickets, thefts, fender benders, and other mishaps. If you don’t have Mexican insurance, you could find yourself in a serious situation.

Here are some places where you can purchase Mexican auto insurance for Rocky Point. You can wait until you are driving through Ajo to stop in and personally pick it up or you can get insurance online.

Mexican Auto Insurance Links

Get Mexican Insurance, Aho, AZ
Mexico Insurance Professionals, Flagstaff, AZ
Mexico Trip Insurance Center specializes in RV insurance and in daily policies for tourists visiting Rocky Point.
The Insurance House/Farmers Insurance, Tucson
San Xavier Mexico Insurance, locations in Tucson and Nogales

Tip: You might encounter Border Patrol inspection stations on the way to the border. Slow down. Follow their directions. Chances are they will just wave you through.

Traveling Tips

Visiting Rocky Point isn’t difficult, but it is different than visiting another U.S. city. Some people would warn you to never go to Rocky Point, because of the bad experience they had there. Please consider these tips when planning your Rocky Point vacation.

Do not bring guns or ammunition into Mexico.
Do not try to work in Mexico without the proper forms.
Do not try to buy property in Mexico without the proper forms.
If you will be driving outside of the free zone, you will also need a visa and a permit for your vehicle. If you’ll be going anywhere other than Rocky Point, research this in advance.
While in Rocky Point, secure your vehicle at all times. If you have a Club or similar device, use it.
Keep your vehicle registration and Mexican insurance policy details with you, and not in the car.

If you bring ATVs, jet skis, boats, or other recreational vehicles, be sure to bring the ownership documents with you.
If you bring your dog, make sure you carry documents from your veterinarian evidencing rabies shots.
Do not try to return to the U.S. with any wildlife, plants, fruit, coral, or fireworks.
Keep receipts for items purchased. You may need them for Customs.
Did I mention that you should not bring a gun into Mexico? I mean it. Don’t do it.
Don’t break the law. Don’t speed, don’t use drugs, don’t get in a fight, and (did I mention?) don’t carry weapons. The Mexican judicial system is not like ours in the U.S. and it could be months before you ever get a trial. When you get your trial, don’t expect a jury.

Mexico is one of the top places to find Americans in jail, so take my advice: enjoy the beautiful beaches and the wonderful food and weather of Puerto Peñasco. But be a polite guest and don’t get in any trouble.
More safety tips for traveling in Mexico.

Rocky Point is the closest real beach to Phoenix, but if traveling across the border makes you nervous, or if you have had bad experiences in the past in Mexico, it takes only a couple of hours longer to drive to San Diego from Phoenix!

Old Port and New Construction

Old Port is the place for shopping, eating, and bars. If you aren’t spending your time boating or swimming in the Sea of Cortez, or on the beach, or taking a nap, this is where you are likely to end up. Across the water, you can see all the new high-rise condos and resorts being built along the shore.

You’ll see many references to Arizona while visiting Rocky Point. They know that many of the people who visit there are from Phoenix. Motels, convenience stores, and bars often use Arizona in their name.

Tip: July/August is probably the slowest tourist season because it is hot and humid. Spring Break is the busiest time.

Shopping

Bring cash and your negotiating skills when you shop in the Old Port section. Many people hate negotiating, but it’s part of the experience! Don’t be rude if they don’t agree to the price you offered. Just leave.

Spanish Words That You Should Know

baño – restroom
mujeres – women
hombres – men
alto – stop
abierto – open
cerrado – closed
por favor – please
gracias – thank you
camarón – shrimp
mariscos – seafood
cerveza – beer
cuenta – check or bill, in a restaurant

Tip: Businesses in Rocky Point all accept U.S. Dollars (USD), so there’s no need to bring pesos. When you sign credit card slips, make sure it is clear on the slip whether the currency quoted is pesos (MXP or M$) or USD. Try to have the exact amount if you pay in cash so you don’t get your change back in pesos.

How to Get Fresh Seafood

Water activities are very popular in Rocky Point. There’s parasailing, jet skiing, boat rides, sunset cruises, and fishing charters. Don’t forget, Rocky Point was and still is a fishing village. If you weren’t brave enough to hire a charter boat to go out and get your own seafood for dinner, fresh seafood is for sale at the malecón (pier) in the Old Port part of Rocky Point. Bring an empty cooler with you to bring back fresh shrimp.

You’ll be paying by the pound, so don’t let them weigh the shrimp with ice. Understand that the scales used by some vendors might not be accurate. You’ll just have to live with it unless you feel like carrying your own one pound standard in your pocket to test the scale. You might not be getting the bargain of the century, but you’ll get some great shrimp.

Tip: Bring some freezer bags with you to make some smaller lots if you’ll be freezing some of the seafood before you return to the U.S.

Enjoy the Mexican Food

Don’t expect the food or service in Rocky Point to be the same as in the United States. Tacos aren’t the same, beans aren’t the same, desserts aren’t the same. It’s all a matter of expectations. Be a little adventurous and open-minded—the food is wonderful. Those of you that don’t like your food spicy, don’t worry. The food is pretty mild. Those of us who like it hot will use salsas and hot sauces to add an appropriate burn.

As for service, remember you are in Mexico when you are in Rocky Point and you are on vacation. Everything moves a bit slower in Mexico. Typically, a server won’t bring you a check unless you ask for it because they don’t want you to think they are rushing you. Relax.

Tip: You decide if the water is safe to drink or not. Order beer or wine, and you won’t have to decide about the ice.

Visiting Sandy Beach

Sandy Beach is a public beach that has soft white sand. It’s why most people go to Rocky Point. Even though it isn’t the ocean, it serves the purpose!

In case you are wondering, Sandy Beach is not a topless beach.

You will come across vendors on Sandy Beach who will want to sell you beach junk, like jewelry and hats, or offer you services like boat rides or braiding your hair. If you don’t want to be bothered, you are in the wrong place. Just give the vendor a firm “no thanks” and don’t make eye contact. You’ll be left alone until the next vendor approaches.

Tip: The sun and sand are hot and there’s no shade available on Sandy Beach. Bring an umbrella or a canopy with you if you’ll be spending a lot of time on the beach.

Roads and Speed Limits

All the roads from Phoenix all the way to Rocky Point are in good condition. A 4WD vehicle isn’t necessary to make the trip. There are some roads like the one pictured here in the Cholla Bay area, and the neighborhood streets in some parts of Rocky Point aren’t that great either. Still, if you go slowly, just about any vehicle will be fine.

And speaking of speeds, the speed limits in Mexico are s-l-o-w. Much like here, if you drive the speed limit, the locals will be bearing down on your back bumper. The dilemma, though, is that you aren’t a local, and you don’t want to be stopped for speeding in Rocky Point. Add to that the fact that there are times when you can drive for long stretches without seeing a speed limit sign. Use your judgment here.

Tip: Speeds in Mexico are in kilometers per hour, not miles per hour. Don’t panic when you see that first speed limit sign. Look at your dashboard. Your speedometer not only indicates mph but also kph.

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“Mexican Beach Bum” (Robin Miller) Realtor® is the Designated Broker for Mexico Real Estate and Document Services in the beautiful resort city of Puerto Peñasco-Rocky Point, Mexico, where the desert meets the ocean. Just 210 miles from Phoenix or Tucson and where income producing properties start at $75,000 and homes in town start at $40,000.

Being in the Mexico Real Estate Industry for over 12 years, I have been assisting clients with their Mexico vacation home buying and selling decisions in Puerto Peñasco-Rocky Point, and Puerto Vallarta.

**License #442 (licensing required by the State of Sonora)
**Accredited Professional Broker in Puerto Peñasco-Rocky Point
**AMPI member (Mexico’s Real Estate Association)
**Executive AMPI Board member of the local chapter 51
**NAR member (U.S. National Association of Realtors®)
**Member of the local MLS, Multiple Listing Service
**Have a full legal team, in house, to assist buyers with obtaining titles.

With my credentials and the support of my in house legal team, I am qualified to represent, and PROTECT BUYERS as they search for and purchase the perfect vacation home or income producing investment property.

It is important that a foreign buyer connects with a properly qualified licensed agent for their real estate search and purchase transaction. Licensed agents, AMPI and NAR members are held to high ethical standards; attend continuing education classes, and keeping up to date on current issues so they can help guide their clients through the buying and selling process in Mexico.

Ask me for my FREE guide to safely purchase Mexico real estate.

Contact me:

US Line in Mexico: (602) 539-3124
Mexico Cell: 011-521-638-109-0443

robin@mexicanbeachbum.com
www.mexicanbeachbum.com
www.facebook.com/mexicanbeachbum
www.youtube.com/mexicanbeachbumtv
View Puerto Peñasco/Rocky Point Real Estate For Sale
View Puerto Vallarta Real Estate For Sale

Buying a house on a budget – Rocky Point edition

October 18, 2018 by mexicanbeachbum

Buying a house on a budget – Rocky Point edition

Mexico has always been seen as the perfect place for a summer getaway. With its heavenly beaches, Rocky Point is a personal favorite for many people who have visited it. Moreover, Rocky Point is so close to the border that you can drive back and forth on any given day. And, if the safety of Mexico presents a concern to you, you should know that there is nothing to worry about. Contrary to popular belief, a lot of US residents said that they felt safe while living or vacationing in this country. That being said, know that once you step foot in the beautiful coastal city that Rocky Point is, you will forever be lured by it. Whether you are looking for a vacation home or a permanent residence, there is a way of buying a house in Rocky Point without putting yourself in a lot of debt.

Have a budget in place when buying a house

As you might be able to guess, the first thing you need to do is decide how much you can spend. One thing to have in mind is that if you are buying a vacation home, your budget should probably be on the downside. On the other hand, if this is a residence you plan on living in, it is advisable that you give this purchase a lot of thought. You have to think about how much you can spend on a house, but not forget to calculate the cost of your relocation and monthly utilities. After all, buying a home and not being able to afford to live in it is definitely not something you want to do. Get pre-approved

If you are unsure as to how much you can afford for your future home, you should make an appointment at your local bank. See whether you will be pre-approved for a mortgage, and how much money you will be able to get. With a written estimate, buying a house on a budget in Rocky Point will be much easier. Of course, it goes without saying that the only way to have a successful purchase is by sticking to your budget. Don`t get into debts with your friends and family members after seeing the house of your dreams that exceeds your budget.

Create a list of `must haves` and `deal-breakers` when buying a house

Let`s face it, there are certain features all of us find important to see in our future homes. Whether we are talking about a home with a big yard, or one with a nice view, it doesn`t matter. We all have our fair share of features we find essential. Likewise, there are certain things we do not want for our future home to have. Perhaps you want to live in a house with an open-concept kitchen after moving to Rocky Point? Or you want a house with a precise number of rooms? Whatever the situation may be, these are your so-called deal-breakers.

Before you even start your hunt for a perfect house, you need to sit down. Think about it, and make a list of your `must haves` and your `deal-breakers`. This list will help you make a quick decision, as you will not even look at the houses that don`t fit the description.

Work with a licensed real estate agent

In this day and age, there are people who can help you deal with anything. If you are moving to Rocky Point from Miami, you can trust Miami Movers for Less to relocate you safely. If you need to relocate your headquarters, there are plenty of commercial movers that will help you do just that. Likewise, if you are buying a house, you should find a real estate agent. A licensed real estate agent that lives in Rocky Point will know all the details about the housing market. He or she will quickly find what you are looking for, at the price that you can afford.

Cut down on square footage. There is a clear, logical connection between a lower price and less square footage. If you are on a tight budget, the best thing would be to be practical. Perhaps you do not really need that four-bedroom house considering that you are a family of three? Don`t think big, as it won`t do you any good if you are on a limited budget. Instead, look into buying a seaside condo. People that are moving from the USA to Mexico are probably not aware of all of their options. But, in Mexico, you can buy luxurious and spacious condos at an affordable price. This way, you can still lead a grand life, at a price that won`t get you in the red.

Don`t participate in bidding wars

Let`s say you have found the house of your dreams that fits your budget at the same time. How perfect is that? Unfortunately, you are not the only one amazed by it. A few other families have also made their offers, and some of them may even exceed the one you made. What do you do? Well, the worst thing you can do is enter a bidding war. By wanting to end up as a winner, you will offer a price that is way higher than the original one. Chances are you will end up overpaying for a property. We are sure you can see how by being a winner of a bidding war, you will end up as a loser.

Thus, if possible, when buying a house in Rocky Point, try to purchase the one that does not attract so much interest. Just because people are not fighting over a house it does not mean that it is bad. When purchasing a property, being wise and thinking things through is the key to success.

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Ask me for my FREE guide to safely purchase Mexico real estate.

Contact me:

US Line in Mexico: (602) 539-3124
Mexico Cell: 011-521-638-109-0443

Moving to Rocky Point

September 26, 2018 by mexicanbeachbum

Have you ever thought about moving to or visiting Rocky Point? No? Well, you should. This little piece of Heaven on Earth has a lot to offer and will meet all your needs. No matter what they are. Ready to give Rocky Point a chance? Keep on reading, and learn why you should at least visit it. But, once you do – you will want to move there. Just saying!

A bit about Rocky Point

Rocky Point or Puerto Peñasco, as many people call it, is one of the most popular Mexican tourist destinations. And for a good reason. One of them being that it is the closest beach to cities such as Tucson and Phoenix. And if you live in one of them, why not visit this heaven on Earth at least once in your life? It will surprise you. We promise! Rocky Point is located between the majestic sea of Cortes and the Sonoran Desert, and if you are someone who enjoys natural beauties – why wait? The largest active dune field, Great Altar Desert, volcanic shields with lava flows, giant craters… They are just the beginning of it all!

Rocky Point is about 60 miles from USA border but it is declared to be a part of border ‘’free zone’’. What does that mean to you? Well, you will be able to visit it without having to obtain a vehicle permit. Apart from being so close to the USA, this town attracts visitors from California, Nevada, and Arizona for many other reasons. One of them is fishing. If you are ready to put a stop to everyday stress and rush, you should definitely take some time off and come to relax. Sit back in your chair and start fishing. There is no need for all that anxiety. Not when you visit Rocky Point.

Living in Rocky Point

No matter how old you are or what your interests are – Rocky Point is always the right choice. Living in it is not only fun but also affordable. And if you are a young professional looking to work from home (or from the beach perhaps), why not move here? It is quite close to the USA and once you get nostalgic you will be able to visit your family with ease. But, trust us, you won’t have to. Everyone will want to come and visit you.

You don’t have to be young to live here. Rocky Point is diverse and welcomes everybody. Do you want to retire here? Good! It is a great choice. Enjoy your freedom!

How to move?

Moving isn’t easy. No matter how many times you did it before. It is complicated and time-consuming. And you will need all the help you can get. But, first, you will have to find a house for yourself. Give it some time and thought, and you will find a place to call your own sooner than you think.

Make a plan

Making a solid strategy is a must. It will make this whole process so much easier on you. So, get a notebook and start writing everything down. There are many things you will have to consider, and the sooner you start preparing, the better. You can even make a moving checklist or install an app on your phone. Do whatever you need to do in order to plan and prepare for your relocation properly.

Find a mover that can help

If you decide to start over in Rocky Point, find the right mover on time and make relocation easy. A reliable mover will take care of relocation for you, and you will be able to enjoy your new start with a smile on your face. And that is the main goal – enjoying life. Isn’t it?

Gather packing supplies

Your safety and wellbeing should always come first. No matter what. But, when you decide to move to Rocky Point, you won’t have to think only about your safety. Or the safety of your family. No. You will have to think about your belongings as well. Do you know how to transport your belongings to Rocky Point in a safe manner? Let us give you a hint. You will need some packing supplies. Try to find some before your moving day comes close and save yourself the trouble. That is, if you want to move stress and hassle-free. You can never know exactly how many boxes you might need, and starting early can prevent many troubles.

Packing

Start by sorting your belongings. Get rid of old items that you don’t use or need anymore. You can sell, donate or give away some of them. It is really your choice. But, keep in mind – the less you have to move, the easier relocation will be.

Packing can be quite hard, and if it seems like too much, you should find someone who can help you prepare your belongings for the safe transport. Your mover can be the right person for the job, so ask him if he offers that service before you start looking somewhere else.

Say goodbye

Before you leave for Rocky Point, make sure you say your goodbyes. Don’t forget about the people you love. Have a nice get-together and create a few new memories. Arrange for them to come and visit you once you relocate. Don’t be shy to ask – they will want to. Share some memories, remember the good old times and enjoy yourselves. And once you start feeling nostalgic, remember – your friends are just a call away!

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Being in the Mexico Real Estate Industry for over 11 years, I have been assisting clients with their Mexico vacation home buying and selling decisions in Puerto Peñasco-Rocky Point, and Puerto Vallarta.

Ask me for my FREE guide to safely purchase Mexico real estate.

Contact me:

US Line in Mexico: (602) 539-3124
Mexico Cell: 011-521-638-109-0443

Moving From The Usa To Mexico

July 29, 2018 by mexicanbeachbum

via Moving From The Usa To Mexico

Moving from the USA to Mexico

June 25, 2018 by mexicanbeachbum

Moving from the USA to Mexico

Are you looking for a change in your lifestyle? Have you decided to start a new life out of the USA? Moving from the USA to Mexico is becoming more appealing to many American residents. If you are one of them, this article might help you prepare for the moving day.

Moving from one country to another implies considering many factors. First of all, there’s the financial factor, finding the perfect housing and getting a job. Even if you have everything figured out, you still have to deal with the cultural shock of starting a new life in Mexico. Depending on how you prepare, moving to Mexico can be a good or a bad choice for you. Read on and find more information about planning your perfect Mexico relocation.

Before moving from the USA to Mexico

Before your moving day, there are some important things to consider. First of all, you should decide on the city you want to live in. You can choose between a city center, smaller town or suburbs. After you find the perfect area, it’s time to choose the right neighborhood, which will depend on a few factors. First of all, if you are moving alone, consider living in a busier part of the city. This way you can be closer to the city happenings and meet a lot of interesting locals and newcomers. On the other hand, if you are moving to Mexico with a family, it’s a great choice – Mexico has some gorgeous natural landscapes where you can find a small house to raise your kids.

If you already have in mind a perfect location in Mexico, you should consider housing options. Buying or renting a property has its pros and cons, depending on your financial status. Also, make sure to decide whether you want to live in a house or an apartment. Make a list of pros and cons and prepare for contacting a real estate agent. During the moving process, he/she can help you with everything from home scouting to filling out the application forms.

Consider the cost of living in Mexico

It’s not a secret that living in Mexico is way cheaper than living in the USA. However, moving process will imply many additional costs, so you should plan your budget on time. Besides thinking about the cost of hiring professional movers, there are more costs to consider. Here’s a list of the things to bear in mind when it comes to the costs of living in Mexico:

The purchasing power in Mexico is higher than in the USA. This is good news for everyone moving from the USA to Mexico. The reason for this is that a median household income in Mexico is around one-tenth of the one in America. Still, make sure to calculate the budget on time. Make sure to set some money aside for the first few months of living in your new home.
Groceries and food are also cheaper. If you are a gastronomy lover, this will be great news for you. The food pricing, as well as restaurant pricing, go from 10% to 130% lower than in the USA.
Housing and transportation are a lot cheaper than in the US. Wherever you choose to live in Mexico, you probably won’t spend most of your monthly income on rent and transportation. Of course, this implies to everyone not working for an average Mexican income.
The overall monthly budget you’ll need after moving from the USA to Mexico is between 1000$ and 2000$.

Gather all the paperwork and visa requirements

Moving from the USA to Mexico is easier if you are an American resident. For those staying less than 180 days in Mexico, The Tourist Card is needed. But, if you wish to stay longer than 3 months in Mexico, you will need the FMM visa (Forma Migratoria Multiple) and a valid passport. In case you don’t have an American citizenship, make sure to visit the official website of the Mexican government.

Besides applying for a visa (if necessary), you have to sort out all other documents, and you should do this months before moving from the USA to Mexico. First of all, you should go to your local bank and ask for more information about your account transfer. Also, if you are selling your home, make sure to do it enough in advance, so you can plan the budget for your Mexican relocation.

In the end, consider all the moving costs. Make sure to get a quote and learn how much you will pay for hiring international moving companies from NY. Professional movers will help you with all the hard work moving from the USA to Mexico brings, so you don’t have to deal with it.

Hiring professional movers

One of the most important questions during a move is should you hire professional movers? Well, if you write the list of pros and cons, you’ll see that it definitely pays off. Considering how much valuable time and energy you can save, you will surely conclude that hiring movers is a good idea.

Moving from the USA to Mexico can be a big change in your lifestyle. Professional movers can help you with planning and the transportation of your belongings. U. Santini Moving and Storage Brooklyn is a reliable and affordable moving company from New York. Their moving professionals offer various moving services including both residential and commercial moving assistance. Also, if you lack time to prepare for the move, ask your movers about packing services or packing supplies. In the end, make sure to start planning the relocation on time and learn more about Mexican culture before the move.

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Ask me for my FREE guide to safely purchase Mexico real estate.

Contact me:

US Line in Mexico: (602) 539-3124
Mexico Cell: 011-521-638-109-0443

Moving from Mexico to Miami

June 21, 2018 by mexicanbeachbum

Moving from Mexico to Miami

So, you’ve decided to relocate to Miami, good for you! However, before you pack your bags and set of on a new life adventure there are some things you should pay attention to when moving from Mexico to Miami. Moving can be a troublesome affair, especially if it’s international. Thus, you’ll want to be ready as much as possible, since you’ll encounter challenges you don’t every day.

Prepare well

The best way to have a successful relocation is to prepare well! But, how can you do that? It’s easy! All you need is a pen and a piece of paper. These are you most needed tools when you’re planning your move. Make a list of all the things that need to be done before the moving day. This list should include:

The moving day – preferably marked in a strong color so you can always see it.
Legal obligations – such as getting/renewing a passport, letting your old landlord know your moving and forwarding all your mail
Packing – get your packing done at least a day before the actual move. This way you can respond accordingly if something happens last minute
Throw a goodbye party – since you’re starting a new life in a completely new country, you’ll want to say a proper goodbye to your friends at home. Who knows when you’ll meet next time
Prepare for the worst – even though the worst doesn’t usually happen, you should always be prepared for the worst possible situation. Carry an emergency bag when you’re moving internationally

Start early

Whether you’re doing the packing and loading yourself or you’re hiring professional long distance movers from Miami you’ll want to start as early as possible. So, if your moving day is in two weeks and you know you’re a slow packer – start packing right away! If you want to have a successful international relocation you will require a lot of things to go smoothly. So, start everything as early as you can since this will provide you with more time to tackle any problems that may come along.

Another benefit of starting the planning of your move earlier is that you can reserve and schedule your moving day well in advance. This will greatly lower the costs of your relocation, as well as give you a little wiggle room, since most companies will allow you to adjust your moving date if you scheduled it a long time ago.

Pack like a pro

Packing… The most hated and devastating part of any move. There’s something so tedious and hurtful in packing your entire life in boxes. This makes us want to postpone packing which is one of the parts of the move we really need to do quickly. So, resist your urges to do literally anything else and get down to business!

How do you pack like a pro? Well, first you’ll need a lot of moving boxes. Scour your local grocery stores and supermarkets and ask them to give you cardboard boxes they don’t need anymore. We need a lot of space for all your things. If you like travelling light, you can use your suitcases to carry a lot of things.

Next, you start packing. Now, your instincts will tell you to pack all of your important things in one bag. This is a good idea! With an international move, your things will most likely be shipped to your destination, so, you should have all your important things in case something happens to your other possessions. After you’ve made your special bag it’s time to pack the rest of the house. Pack your home room by room and label the boxes. This way unpacking will be a piece of cake.

Hire the professionals

The best way to have a successful international move is to get the pros to relocate you. So, it may seem expensive at first, but when you consider it a bit, it can actually save you money. If you’re inexperienced in moving there are a lot of ways your international relocation can turn into a horrible nightmare. However, if you have experienced pros on your side the chances of something going wrong are almost non-existent!

Another advantage of pro movers is that you’ll get a fixed price which won’t increase at any point in your move. Why is this important? Well, a lot of people see cheap shipping options online and hire their services only to realize that they missed some fine print additional costs. Also, your things can be held for ransom by fraudulent shipping companies or worse. When you hire professional movers you know what you get, and you get what you paid for!

Drive it yourself

This option is not recommended. However, you could be able to relocate your home from Mexico to Miami in a truck you can rent and drive yourself. However, you need to make sure that the company you rent your truck from is international, cause you’ll need someone to bring the rental truck back.

Ship it

If you’re not a cross-border, truck-driving virtuoso than you can pack your things in a container and ship them to Miami. Be careful you research your shipping company well. Scammers can get all your things if you’re not careful, and you definitely don’t want to end up on another continent without any of your possessions.

Relax, you’re doing fine!

Moving from Mexico to Miami will test you on more levels that just moving heavy boxes. Some things may not go as planned or they’ll take longer time to get done. The most important thing is to not stress out. Not only will this not help at all, but it will also make things worse. A tense person cannot do any job right, let alone help in their own move. So, try to not overthink or overdo when you’re moving internationally. In the end, this will make the difference between a good and a bad move.

www.movingofficessandiego.com

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Ask me for my FREE guide to safely purchase Mexico real estate.

Contact me:

US Line in Mexico: (602) 539-3124
Mexico Cell: 011-521-638-109-0443

Sonora Driver License Rocky Point Cruz Roja

December 17, 2017 by mexicanbeachbum

I made the plunge to get my Sonora driver license. It’s a process for sure, start out early and bring a lunch!

First go to the fiscal dept to get the application.

First stop is the Cruz Roja. SIDE NOTE: What I discovered was this: Monday through Friday from 10am to 1:30pm, they have a doctor there for consulting, so if you have an urgent need or just want a consult, they charge 100 to 200 pesos ($6 to $12) based on ability to pay and there is someone that translates. The doctor and Cruz Roja splits the fee.

They offer orthopedic braces etc for a donation, then you can return them. Irma is the director and you see her for the driver license inspection. She weighs you, gets your height, has you read the eye exam, sees if you look fit to drive, then stamps the document. She is very sweet but take your translator if you need to. Fill in the blanks as much as possible, see mine below.

First you start out with the fiscal dept to get your application
Next go to Cruz Roja on Freemont, hand it to her, she knows what to do. She stamps it. Cost is 250 pesos approx, she gives your a letter.
Next you go to the police station to get his stamp, his cost is approx 250 pesos also
Next you go back to the Fiscal dept to pay, give them all your papers, bring copies (your passport, MX residence card, light bill if your name is on it. If your name is not on the CFE bill, you need a copy of your lease OR bank statement, showing your name and address, they take photo, pay them for how many years you want, then you are handed your license in 5 minutes!

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Ask me for my FREE guide to safely purchase Mexico real estate.

Contact me:

US Line in Mexico: (602) 539-3124
Mexico Cell: 011-521-638-109-0443

Buying Property in Mexico

December 14, 2017 by mexicanbeachbum

Buying a house in Mexico – How and why

Buying a house in Mexico requires an extensive amount of research, planning, and preparation. Buying property in Mexico means you need to hire professionals who can help you with the property transfer in Mexico.

Although the prices in some areas in Mexico have risen in recent years, you can find and buy property for sale in Mexico for a good price. Mexico properties are mostly cheaper than properties in the US and Europe.

So, if you are moving from New York to buy a house in Mexico, you should consider hiring professionals to help you. An international move is quite a difficult thing to do. Start with preparations as soon as possible, because there is so much to do.

Hiring international New York movers for your Mexico relocation would probably be the best thing to do. An experienced moving company will help you with your move (handling crossing the border, which is probably the toughest part of the relocation, because of the paperwork), making it smooth and easy. Just the way a relocation to Mexico should be.

How difficult is the property purchase process in Mexico?

There is a system in Mexico for property purchases by foreigners. In the past, foreigners could purchase real estate anywhere in Mexico except the restricted zone. But, today, Foreign Investment Law in Mexico allows foreigners to purchase real estate within the restricted zone.

When you decide to buy a house in Mexico, you can consider hiring a Mexico real estate agent that lists properties for sale. When real estate agents find you a property to buy, you can negotiate the sales price. Then, you need to obtain a permit to buy the property from the foreign secretary’s office.

If you are buying a house in Mexico, as a foreigner you can buy it through a bank trust. The closing coordinator will help you with checking the ownership and insurance and verifying if the property is free of liens. The trust that is created is good for 50 years. With this document, you are ensured that you (the buyer) are the beneficiary of that trust. It is not an asset of the bank, and the government cannot deprive you of your property ownership.

There is another way to purchase property in Mexico. You can do it through a Mexican corporation. They are allowed to buy Mexican property anywhere in the country, but they have to pay higher utility fees. It is a rule for all commercial properties. But, if you want to buy a house in Mexico, you should know that you can buy a residential real estate, but only if you want to rent it. You cannot buy a residential real estate through a Mexican corporation in order to live there.

The Most important steps during a house buying in Mexico

The most important tip when buying a house in Mexico, in addition to finding a licensed real estate agent, is to hire a lawyer to help you with each step of the purchasing process. In case you intend to hire a real estate agent, the agent should have its own team of attorneys, notaries, closing coordinators etc. So choosing a real estate professional wisely, you are making sure to have all these issues solved in advance.

Other important steps are (the closing coordinator takes care of all the following steps, but we want to give you an insight of what is to be done):

An initial written agreement to sell/buy. Like we mentioned, this agreement has the details about the house price and the deadlines for purchasing process.
As a foreign buyer, you need to get a permission from the foreign secretary’s office to buy real estate in Mexico.
A closing coordinator checks the seller’s property deeds.
The official documentation should be given to the notary. This is also a must for a seller. Both of you need to provide your IDs, birth certificates, etc. As we said, the closing coordinator will take care of this and let you know what to prepare.
The seller also needs to provide the original property deed, recent tax receipts, and proof that he/she paid all of the utility bills.
The seller pays capital gains tax on the property purchase. A closing coordinator will work a strategy with the Notario, to lower the taxes as much as possible.
The final payment for your Mexico house is conducted when the property deed is signed over to you at the notary’s office.
You can buy a house in Mexico by cash, seller financing, developer financing or through a mortgage broker. The escrow company will give instructions how to wire the money into the escrow account. The closing coordinator will instruct the escrow company to disburse funds at closing.
You need to pay the notary’s fees as well as any closing costs during the buying process.

Costs of buying a house in Mexico

Besides the price of the house, there are other expenses. Some of them are covered by the buyer, the others are the seller’s expense.

The Mexico real estate buyer pays:

Notary costs
Acquisition tax
Registration fees
Escrow fees (safety for money and used for disbursements)

* A closing coordinator will provide a total estimate of closing costs before the sale goes under contract. The buyer and the seller will approve their costs before moving forward.

The Mexico real estate seller pays:

Real estate agent fees plus IVA taxes
Capital gains tax

Beside your licensed real estate agent and attorney/closing coordinator, the most important person in your house buying in Mexico is the public notary. A licensed public notary is the main part of all real estate transactions in Mexico.

The closing coordinator/attorney will ensure that all documents and permits are in order. They also check if the property has liens on the land, or doesn’t have building permits, tax registers, and any land taxes and utilities not paid.

Also, if the property is owned by multiple owners, all the owners who gave permission to sell are checked. So, it is really important that you provide all the purchasing documents to the closing coordinator for certification. Never rely on words and documents which are not valid.

A closing coordinator/attorney handles getting permission from the foreign secretary’s office for buying real estate in Mexico.

Places to buy a house in Mexico

If you decide to move and buy a house in Mexico, there are many places in Mexico where you can find your new home and peace. There are also places where you can get good deal when buying Mexico real estate. Mexico has lots of great real estate opportunities. Buying a house in Mexico is possible in the big cities but also in the beach resort areas in Cabo, Baja, Puerto Vallarta, Puerto Penasco (Rocky Point), the Mayan Riviera, Mazatlan, Cancun etc.

You can buy a house in Mexico for a second property, for vacation purposes, or you can own a house for your permanent residence or enjoy as an income producing property.

So, in Mexico you can find houses for all cases in few great places to live:

Playa del Carmen real estate – Caribbean beachfront living from Playa to Tulum
San Miguel de Allende – Mountains, beautiful weather, cultural capital of Mexico
Merida – old colonial city with inexpensive Mexican colonial real estate
Cabo San Lucas – Pacific beach living
Puerto Penasco – In the FREE ZONE, where the desert meets the sea, 200 miles from Phoenix or Tucson, Arizona

The reasons to buy a house in Mexico

When you make a decision to buy a house in Mexico you should know that the rules can be different than those you are used to.

It is never a good idea to buy real estate unless you understand all of the things and rules for buying a house in Mexico. So, before you start searching, learn what to expect and most importantly – hire a real estate agent in Mexico.

There are many reasons to buy a property in Mexico. But, all of them come down to a personal choice.

Buying a house in Mexico always depends on individual circumstances: If you want a house for living or you want a property investment with rental income or place to stay on holiday when you visit, whatever you choose, best wishes in your search.

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Ask me for my FREE guide to safely purchase Mexico real estate.

Contact me:

US Line in Mexico: (602) 539-3124
Mexico Cell: 011-521-638-109-0443

Beachfront Income Producing 14 bedrooms! Rocky Point Mexico-Las Conchas

September 26, 2017 by mexicanbeachbum

I just returned from attending a real estate agent open house in Las Conchas, in Rocky Point Mexico. It is a beautiful property on the beach on 1.43 acres. It has years of proven great income. There are 5 homes, 14 bedrooms,13 bathrooms, 4 garages, 8 fireplaces, tennis court, basketball court, putting green, fully furnished, did I say it was on the beach? So is the volleyball area!

Your guests will enjoy beautiful sunrises, sunsets and tranquility in this luxury beachfront estate, and you will enjoy the rental income! Live in 1 home and manage the rest. This could be your “dream job”. Ask me for details.

View this fabulous property here.

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Ask me for my FREE guide to safely purchase Mexico real estate.

Contact me:

US Line in Mexico: (602) 539-3124
Mexico Cell: 011-521-638-109-0443

Rocky Point around town Interesting photos

September 1, 2017 by mexicanbeachbum

A few months ago, I wrote a blog and posted over 40 photos of Rocky Point stop signs and Rocky Point trees . I continue to encounter other things, could be weird, odd, funny, interesting, thought provoking, things that make our city special. I bought a carton of eggs the other day, they are at Sinaloa Fruteria and 30 to a pack and not refrigerated, which is not a problem. I always say I like my eggs fresh with feathers and other things stuck to the shell. Those other things protect the egg from intruding bacteria believe it or not. This one egg had the largest feather so I had to take a photo and add to my “odd” collection of photos.

The dog with the red shirt, I took that photo when I first moved here in 2006, he was a happy dog, a block from Burrito Express, and was in May so it wasn’t too hot yet for him to be dressed. The dog on the roof is not too common here, but it is very common in Puerto Vallarta, when I lived there I didn’t take any photos. The dogs on their back were in my friend’s house, her dogs were just resting, looks funny. Lazy bums.

On Blvd Freemont, as I was driving, I saw this tiny car with a tiny boat, so cute. At the border in Lukeville in front of the post office, a sign was posted a few months ago, no explanation needed.

You will see trucks carrying anything for sale, in this case there was one selling flamingos and the other with partial mannequin bodies.

The sewer drain cover in front of my house is made of plastic and until the city came to fix it, a neighbor put up the stick and plastic bag to warn drivers. This is the same hole a dog was rescued from, video I took of the fire dept rescuing the dog, with the neighborhood dogs watching, then greeting him when he got free: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQR3p9Pq648

This is a dog obeying the rules, not entering Super Ley: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTR9ebLTXPI

My favorite is the yellow sign “don’t throw out your tires here”

Another favorite is the sign in the Malecon when no alcoholic drinks allowed, LOL, love the translation.

I was having a burger at Eric’s burger on Calle 13 last month, and this little girl sat on the saddle, so cute.

The jet ski photo, I couldn’t get the whole thing. It was a truck, pulling the trailer with 2 jet skis, then another 2 jet skis, then a boat with the banana boat on top of that.

Now the truck with the big tire. At the entrance of the Lopez Acevez community I saw a big tire, then we met the Ejido president Pancho, every time he drives up and down the road, he hooks up the tire and drags it to keeps road clear and flat. The little church structure was also in this community and in an owner’s backyard.

Was stopped at the RR tracks yesterday, the train stopped in front of me, apparently had issues with the train car in front of me, the workers were checking on it. Took 20 minutes, but I am patient. As the guy stepped from one car to the next, I got the cool shot mid air.

The 911 sign was at Sonoyta, “Tanks”!!