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Ajijic Real Estate
at Lake Chapala

In the last decade or so, it is estimated that more than 10,000 foreigners have purchased property on the north shore of Lake Chapala. Long prized as a weekend retreat by wealthy Guadalajarans, the villages from Chapala to Jocotepec now boast an expatriate community said to be the largest in the world.

There is a wide range of prices based on location, architecture, size and features. The interesting thing about Lake Chapala properties is the uniqueness of each home. Unlike the US and Canada, properties here are not normally mass produced. Most are custom homes with unique features. I will be happy to show you:

The first home built by Toni and her husband, Ed, Combs

General speaking, housing costs are comparable to costs in Canada and the USA. There are charming older Mexican homes in the village, in the country and the mountainside. Many have been updated with all the modern conveniences and a few are waiting to be refurbished by YOU. There are also many new/newer homes, maybe a few years old with gorgeous mature gardens in established neighborhoods. As you can see, the options are endless!

In Mexico, foreigners may own property either "direct deed" or "in trust." Direct deeds are used when an immediate family member is the beneficiary. The Trust Deed is done through a bank and used when you choose non-family individuals as heirs. Of course, the bank charges an annual fee for their services. There is no Title Insurance in Mexico, but the Notary Public who closes the transaction is required by Mexican law to do a thorough title search for the benefit of the buyer. Any reputable realtor will research potential liens, such as unpaid homeowner fees, water bills, real estate taxes, etc. This is an important service since no "warranty" deeds are issued in Mexico. And property taxes are unbelievably low!

Realtors in this area are required to be members of Grupo Inmobiliario del Lago (GIL), which adheres to strict regulations and a code of ethics to ensure safe transactions. This can be especially important to foreigners unfamiliar with the laws in Mexico.

Build Your Own Home

There are many new homes and developments being built. Some are built on speculation and others are custom-built for buyers. Some buyers want to build or renovate themselves. This can be a very rewarding experience. For others, it might be worth the extra cost to have an experienced contractor manage your job. There are many excellent contractors with hard-working crews that do magnificent work. If you buy at the right time and have some good renovation ideas, it can be very satisfying. A "fixer-upper" might be the one for you.

Accommodations When You Visit Lake Chapala

Visitors to Lake Chapala's north shore will find dozens of bungalows, casitas (guesthouses), hotels and B&Bs in the area, from 5-star hotels with pristine pools and panoramic lake views to intimate B&Bs on quiet side streets. The services and ambiance will vary greatly at each lodging place, but it is safe to say that there is something for everyone, preference and budget.

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