buy property, the agent

The Peoples Guide to Mexico: Real Estate in Ajijic and Lake Chapala, Mexico People's Guide Homepage • Copper Canyon • Live & Retire • Carl's Notebooks • Letters • Favorite Books • Visit our Sponsors • Table of Contents • The Best of Mexico: Favorite Places Live & Retire in Mexico Lake Chapala area Buying Property in the Lake Chapala Area by Tony Harries & Teresa A. Kendrick In the last decade or so, it is estimated that more than 10,000 foreigners have purchased property on the Northshore of Lake Chapala. Long prized as a weekend retreat by wealthy Guadalajarans, the villages from Lake Chapala to Jocotepec now boast an expatriate community said to be the largest in the world. Ajijic has become the prime location for foreigners because of its infrastructure of services, such as internet access, and the existence of the Lake Chapala Society, an English-speaking resource center for newcomers and residents. The Real Estate Climate on the Northshore At present, the Northshore has 20 real estate agencies. Their level of competency and expertise vary. In Mexico, the real estate industry is not regulated by the government. It is self-regulated. Two associations are responsible for training agents and policing the ethics of the agencies: AMPI (Asociacion Mexicana de Profesionales Inmobiliarios) is the national organization (with a lakeside chapter) and Gil (Grupo Inmobiliario del Lago) is the local organization. Many offices belong to one or the other, and some belong to both. They provide multiple-listing services that allow agents to show properties listed by other agencies, an advantage for both buyer and seller. The most professional agencies also provide their own in-house training for new agents. Several agencies have websites that will allow you to get a feel for the company, the houses that are available and the prices of property and land. The websites allow you to interact with the agency via email, and, if the site is good, will offer background information and answers to frequently asked questions. It can also provide you with the name of an agent. Choosing an Agent Good agents tend to work for well-run organizations. When walking into the office for the first time, take a look around. Does it look professionally managed? Are key personnel bilingual? Are listings photographed, detailed and organized so you can spend time reviewing available properties and evaluating how much your money will buy? Talk with several agents to find one you feel is knowledgeable, experienced, available, compatible, and upfront. Professional, reliable agents provide service before, during, and after a sale. If a problem or error arise, your agent should work hard to correct it. After your initial meeting, ask around about the reputations of various agencies and agents, but be aware that while gathering information, it is very likely you will also gather misinformation. One person can easily contradict another; this is human nature and common in a small communities. Being a Good Client/Firing an Agent Agent- and agency-hopping is an ethical no-no, but after viewing several properties reevaluate your agent. If you feel that the agent is not listening to you, tell him or her; they will appreciate you restating your requirements. Often clients are confused about what they want, or unrealistic about what their money can buy. Be clear about what you want. Buying a house is an emotional process, so be prepared to experience some unusual feelings and reactions and understand that an agent has the dual job of steering you through the process of buying property in another country and your own learning curve. If you are unable to work with your agent, graciously fire that agent and find another. You might use a simple, “Thank you for your time and efforts. We feel we wish to expand our search and thought we might consult with another agency. If we feel you can be of further service, we will get back to you.” Remember, the agent you are releasing is a member of the community in which you will live and diplomacy will save some feelings down the line. How to be a good Client If your first visit to the area is an exploratory excursion, tell your agent. He or she will guide you as you gather preliminary information. If you are not in a position to buy at the time, limit the time you spend with the agent as he or she has other clients to serve. If you have funds available to buy property, the agent will intensify the search for a suitable property and guide you through the process. Be clear about how much you can spend and when you plan to resettle. Remember agents often work for months without reimbursement for their out of pocket expenses. The Nitty Gritty At this time, prices for houses on the Northshore run anywhere from $22,000 US to 1.35 million US. The average home with the amenities sought by North American buyers are in the $100,000 US range. Location, as everywhere, is one of the most determining factors for setting the price. The further out from services you go, the lower prices will be. View, construction type, size and amenities determine the rest. Clients can choose from gated communities which offer security (a plus for residents who spend 6 months in Mexico and 6 months elsewhere), large country estates, and village living. Village homes are connected to one another by common exterior, and, occasionally, interior walls and allow residents to live within walking distance of most services and activities. Do not let any agent sell you ejido land. No matter what future promises anyone may make, you will not get a legal title. This is land set aside by the government for the indigenous people of Mexico and cannot be sold to foreigners. Also, there are a few places on the Northshore known for their instability due to soft soil or geothermal faults, and some places have water supply problems. Informed, wise agents will steer you away from these trouble spots. The Buying Process Purchasing a home or lot on the Northshore is primarily a cash transaction, but occasionally short-term owner financing is available. When you make an offer to the seller you must present a check for 10% of the value of the house. A photocopy is made of this “earnest money” and the check itself is placed in the agency safe. Once negotiations are completed under the supervision of the respective buying and selling real estate agents, and both parties have signed a purchase agreement, the check is deposited into the escrow account of the selling agency. The check is later applied to the balance of the purchase price at the notary public’s office. (Note: The actual sale price of a property is not a matter of public record in Mexico, nor is it registered with the government. It is unethical for an agent to tell you the sale price of a property. He or she can tell you what the property was listed for, but not what was paid.) The Closing Closings take place in the office of a Notario Publico, or notary public. These are lawyers of very high standing who, after 5 years of legal practice, apply to the government for notario status and must undergo strict scrutiny to be awarded the title. With it comes many responsibilities and important legal functions. One of these is to preside over and ensure the legality of property transfer. The notary authenticates the seller’s right to sell the property, scrutinizes the history of the property for any irregularities, and makes sure the deed is clear and free of liens through appropriate government offices. Since the buyer pays for the closing costs and notary’s fees, it is his or her privilege to select the notary. The notary can advise the buyer which type of deed meets his needs: direct deed or bank trust deed. The notary will file with the Mexican government the application for the transfer of the deed from seller to buyer. His official signature on all documents finalizes the purchase and makes it a legal transaction under Mexican law. From purchasing to closing the norm is 30 to 60 days, but motivated parties can complete the process within 15 days. Differences in Home Construction There is no slab-frame construction in this part of Mexico. A home here is usually of concrete, glass, stone, brick, iron and rebar construction. Wood is expensive and used little except for design affect. Each wall is load-bearing and has its own foundation. Many houses have exterior walls and decorative metal work to ensure privacy and security. There are "aljibes" (cisterns) for water storage and in some of the newer homes, water purification and pressure systems are built-in. You will also find tanks for storing propane used for cooking and heating water as there is no infrastructure to supply natural gas. You will notice a lack of central heating and air conditioning, as it’s not essential. A fireplace on a cool evening or morning is charming and does the trick. There are no building codes so a good agent will provide you with information about levels of construction quality and what might be buried within the walls. Developers The north shore of Lake Chapala has recently seen a rise in new, speculative construction meant to appeal to buyers from the North. Much of this work is being done by young, Mexican architects from monied Guadalajara families with varying degrees of experience and dependability. There are also projects being developed by American, Canadian and European companies. Remodeling Many buyers purchase a home with the intent of upgrading and remodeling the existing structure. Craftsmen, laborers, architects and artisans abound in the area. If you are in the market for such services, perhaps your agent can help direct you to a general contractor who has a good reputation. Be sure to get a signed, witnessed contract stipulating prices and the quality of work and materials to be used. If language is a problem, get a translator to help you. Several translators are listed in the Lake Chapala Society directory, a members-only book that can be loaned to you by your agent. If, during the remodeling, you feel you have been financially abused, the government has an agency with an office in Chapala called PROFECO which helps consumers receive satisfaction. The pace of work is probably not what you are used to, but in Mexico, patience is required as distribution of materials, cultural standards, and community -- and family-based events interrupt building schedules. Real Estate Agencies/Developers/Internet Websites In Ajijic: Abode Realty: Adj Corporation Ajijic Developments: http://www.ajijicdevs.com Ajijic Real Estate, http://www.ajijic.com ; email: ajijic@infosel.net.mx Ambience Fine Home Builders: http://www.ambiance.com.mx America Mexico Builders Camille’s Realty/Coldwell Banker Chapala Realty: http://www.chapala.com Continental Realty Chula Vista Norte Eager & Asociados: http://www.mexconnect.com/MEX/ea/ea.html Laguna Real Estate: http://www.mexconnect.com/amex/lgna/ Marnher Group RE/Max Ajijic: http://www.desconresorts.com In Chapala: Coldwell Banker/Chapala Realty (Chapala Office), http://www.chapala.com Sierra Vista: In Chula Vista: Century 21 Vistas: http://www.lagunanet.net.mx/c21vistas In Jocotepec: Semprex Realty In Riberas del Pilar: Sunset Realty: http://www.sunsetrealty.com.mx In San Antonio Tlayacapán: Re/Max Fenix About the authors: Tony Harries is a real estate agent who has been working in the Lake Chapala area since June 1997. He is an award-winning school teacher from Texas who retired after 31 years of service. Proficient in Spanish, he has developed a deep appreciation of Mexico following several decades of travel in Mexico before his retirement. He has helped clients from all over the world buy property in the area and this year became a top producing agent for one of the area’s leading agencies. His email is tonyharr@prodigy.net.mx Teresa Kendrick is the author of the recently published book “Mexico’s lake Chapala and Ajijic: The Insiders Guide to the Northshore for International Travelers” Highly detailed and up-to-date, the 208 page book boasts 143 color photographs, a well-organized table of contents and index, and information about nearly everything available on the Northshore of Lake Chapala for travelers and newcomers. The book is available with a full-color map of the Northshore for $26 US plus shipping and handling. The book will be available to purchase locally by calling 76-6-3163 or by ordering from her website: http://www.chapalaguide.com Teresa's email is ajijic@chapalaguide.com . Top of Page Homepage Table of Contents Site Map Write to us, Carl & Lorena http://www.peoplesguide.com ©1972-2001 by Carl Franz & Lorena Havens Copper Canyon • Live & Retire • Table of Contents • Book Reviews • Letters

Investment Property $17.74 ex

GoodReturns Bookstore Top : Catalog : Home | Log In | Create an Account | Cart Contents | Checkout | Contact Us Categories - Top 10 Best-Sellers (10) - Conferences & Seminars (1) - Finance & Wealth Creation (68) - Free Books (7) - Good Business Reads (9) - Investment & shares (60) - Kids & Money- (7) - Magazines & Newsletters- (29) - Massey texts (6) - Mortgages (3) - Other (3) - Property Investment (67) - Superannuation & the economy (7) - Trusts (5) - Tax (5) - Combo Book Deals (15) - Book Tokens (1) What's New? The Intelligent Investors Guide to Share Buying Quick Find Use keywords to find the product you are looking for. Advanced Search Information Shipping & Returns Privacy Information Security Conditions of Use FAQ Contact Us Home Product Information Your Investment Property $17.74 ex GST $19.96 incl GST How to choose it, pay for it and triple your returns in 3 years. By Anita Bell Anita Bells two earlier books Your Mortgage and Your Money have sold nearly thirty thousand copies in New Zealand. The reason her books are so successful is simple. Her advice is practical, easy to understand and easy to apply. Her latest book Your Investment Property- How to choose it, pay for it and triple your returns in 3 years by someone who did it in 2, applies the same recipe. It shows you how to become a successful property investor by buying the right property, paying the minimum price and managing the property to ensure maximum returns. It also covers every aspect of the financial side too, from loans and property management plans to government fees and taxes and shows how to make the system work for you rather than against you. Buy the Anita Bell Book Combo and Save! - Your Investment Property - Your Money - Your Mortgage Click here now. This product was added to our catalog on Tuesday 10 December, 2002. Customers who bought this product also purchased Good Business, Bad Business How to Maximise Your Property Portfolio Slash Your Taxes Now! The Business of Share Trading The REAL Story Shopping Cart ..is empty! Bestsellers 01. Slash Your Taxes Now! 02. Residential Property Investment in New Zealand 03. Financial Passages 04. The NZ Property Mag - Annual subscription/Free book 05. Planning for Property Success 06. Pay Zero Taxes 07. Snakes and Ladders 08. The Truth About Residential Property Investment 09. Real Estate Investors' Secrets 10. Your Investment Property Specials $24.84 $21.11 More Specials.. Reviews .. More Reviews.. Friday 30 December, 2005

Texas Land Trends. This

Home Lab Services Publications Projects Training Registration Staff Links Admin Hurricane Rita Points of Distribution Official Leon River Restoration Site. Fragmented Lands: Changing Land Ownership in Texas. Read more.. United States Grasslands and Related Resources: An Economic And Biological Trends Assessment Read more.. Texas Rural Lands: Trends and Conservation Implications for the 21st Century Read More.. Preserving Texas' Hunting Heritage Read More.. Need Others? New Item Take a tour of our new exploration tool Texas Land Trends. This dynamic tool was developed in partnership with American Farmland Trust to explore Texas' changing landscape in light of economics, demographics, and ecological principals. It includes a vast, searchable database that will enable you to uncover the intricate details about the "economics" of natural resources and agriculture. In addition, the tool also includes an interactive mapping component where you select the information you want to see in a map based form. This new tool allows you to interpret the trends of rural Texas landscapes. TEXAS LAND TRENDS Requested Publications: Texas Rural Lands: Trends and Conservation Implications for the 21st Century This report describes the key findings of an analysis of the status and recent changes in ownership size, land use and property values of private farms, ranches and forestlands in Texas. The goal of this work is to provide public and private decision makers with the data they need to plan for the conservation of working rural lands in Texas. Included in this report are four summaries describing results of technical analyses upon which many of our conclusions are based. Click here to find thepublication... . Rio Grande/Rio Bravo Basin: A Bibliography The Rio Grande/Rio Bravo Basin drains some of the harshest terrain in North America. The river and its tributaries are major drainages for the plateau shrub lands of central New Mexico, the Chihuahuan Desert and the Tamaulipan Mezquital. The Chihuahuan Desert of New Mexico, Texas and Mexico ranks as the world’s most biologically diverse desert ecoregion, supporting a species richness of more than 100 mammals, 250 birds, 100 reptiles and 20 amphibians. La cuenca del Río Grande/Río Bravo riega el terreno más árido de Norteamérica. El río y sus tributarios son drenajes importantes para matorrales de las planicies centrales del estado de New México, del desierto Chihuahuense, y del Mezquital Taumalipeco. El desierto Chihuahuense de New México, de Texas y de México, se reconoce como la ecoregión desértica del mundo con la mayor diversidad biológica posible. Contiene una riqueza de especies alrededor de 100 mamíferos, 250 aves, 100 reptiles y más de 20 especies de anfibios. Click here to find the bibliography... . Home | Lab Services | Publications | Projects | Training | Staff | Links | Texas Cooperative Extension | Extension Wildlife & Fisheries ESRI trademarks used herein by license from ESRI.

Home Equity

Avoiding Home Equity Scams Avoiding Home Equity Scams Y ou could lose your home and your money if you borrow from unscrupulous lenders who offer you a high-cost loan based on the equity you have in your home. Certain lenders target homeowners who are elderly or who have low incomes or credit problems—and then try to take advantage of them by using deceptive practices. The Federal Trade Commission cautions all homeowners to be on the lookout for: Equity Stripping: The lender gives you a loan, based on the equity in your home, not on your ability to repay based on your income. If you can’t make the payments, you could end up losing your home. Loan Flipping: The lender encourages you to repeatedly refinance the loan and often, to borrow more money. Each time you refinance, you pay additional fees and interest points. That only serves to increase your debt. Credit Insurance Packing: The lender adds credit insurance to your loan, which you may not need. Bait and Switch: The lender offers one set of loan terms when you apply, then pressures you to accept higher charges when you sign to complete the transaction. Deceptive Loan Servicing: The lender doesn’t provide you with accurate or complete account statements and payoff figures. That makes it almost impossible for you to determine how much you have paid or how much you owe. You may pay more than you owe. Some of these practices violate federal credit laws dealing with disclosures about loan terms, discrimination based on age, gender, marital status, race, or national origin; and debt collection. You also may have additional rights under state law that would allow you to bring a law suit. The FTC suggests if you’re thinking about using your home as collateral for a loan, be careful. Unless you can make the loan payments out of current income, you could lose your home as well as the equity you’ve already built up. Some additional tips to remember: The lure of extra money or the chance to reduce monthly credit payments can be very costly in the long run. High interest rates and other credit costs could get you in over your head. Credit insurance may not be a good deal from a lender. If you want the added security of credit insurance, shop around. Don’t sign a loan agreement if the terms are not what you were given when you applied. Ask for an explanation of any dollar amount, term, or condition that you don’t understand. Federal law is very clear about what credit and loan term information must be provided in writing when you apply for a loan and before you sign any agreement. In addition, shop around for the best loan terms and interest rates. Contact lending institutions, such as banks and credit unions, and consult a legal or financial advisor, or someone you can trust before you make any loan decisions. Or contact your local Fair Housing Office, legal aid, or senior services organization for information and help. The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues , visit www.ftc.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The FTC enters Internet, telemarketing, identity theft and other fraud-related complaints into Consumer Sentinel , a secure, online database available to hundreds of civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad. FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION FOR THE CONSUMER 1-877-FTC-HELP www.ftc.gov Jan. 1998

Real Estate Agents &

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