Articles

Advantages of moving to Puerto Vallarta added 1-6-2014

All in one. Residents right here could select to go to the coastline or take to the sea and dive or fish. The mountains are a remarkable place to invest a day, and, the city has an energetic metropolitan atmosphere.I

nvesting in Resort Properties for Good Appreciation added 12-9

There’s a good reason while savvy investors diversify and always include real estate in their portfolios--it’s a proven way to increase returns. The most risky propositions, as any financial adviser worth his or her salt will tell you, are short-term investments.

These can be gold, silver, and other precious metals, corn, wheat, oranges, and other commodities. They can also be things like penny stocks and other “turn and burn” short-term investment vehicles. Regardless of the actual “investment”, it’s the length of time, which is the biggest gamble.

That’s why the majority of investment gurus recommend going with mutual funds, bonds, and certificates of deposit, along with real property. The reason being is while the return is slow and in most cases, small, it’s a steady, dependable one. 

Bad Investment Strategies Prove Costly

It’s not only chasing the big return that leads to bad decisions, it’s the belief or self-imposed blindfold, that “playing” the market, whatever the commodity or investment is at the time, will pay off big time in short order. Nothing can be further from the truth.

When a person tries to game the system, the system wins because it not only sets the rules, the world of investing is unpredictable. Back in the late 1900s, it was tech companies, which eventually lead to the bursting bubble of the new millennium. 

There’s not only the monetary loss, there’s the emotional and physical toll it takes to wrangle through to the next payoff, which might or might not be enough to cover the losses. 

This is why real estate is one of the best investment vehicles--it’s inherently valuable, and, it’s something that everyone actually needs.

Investing in Resort Properties for Good Appreciation

Looking at markets like Puerto Vallarta, Key West and Telluride, there are many people who have successfully taken the initiative, and invested in resort properties. These properties produce a great return for several reasons, so let’s look at the reasons these investments are so lucrative:

• ● Real property is real and always will be real, really. Unlike precious metals, other commodities and even stocks, most of the “value” is only on paper. Resort properties physically exist and, they consistently bring in money.
• ● Resort properties are in-demand because there’s a scarcity of land on which to build. Unlike sprawling urban areas, land is at a premium and, building codes and other factors make new construction difficult.
• ● Resort properties are a known quantity. One of the banes of investing is trying to gauge past performance to determine future returns. Resort properties have a steady record to go on, and because they are located in tourist-laden communities, will continue to appreciate in value.

The Advantages Of Purchasing A Rental Condo added 10-7

A rental condominium is a great investment for many reasons. It can provide your family with a vacation home during holidays, and it can also generate an income when you are not using it for personal reasons. 

When purchasing a rental condominium, keep in mind that location is key. Try to find a popular location, such as a beachfront unit or a condominium near a popular lake or ski resort, so as to provide your family with a fun place to vacation and optimize your rental potential.  Also look for condominium complexes that offer an abundance of amenities, such as pools, children's splash ground facilities, playgrounds and tennis courts. Finally, make sure to always take into account the condominium's home owners association fees before making your purchase. While these fees often pay for choice amenities, they can be costly and might make it so you have to rent the unit for a high price in order to gain your desired income. 

If you live far from your condominium location, consider utilizing the services of a property management company. They will typically retain a percentage of the rent, and in exchange, they will provide you with management services over your tenants, housecleaning options, and regular maintenance of the facility. This can save you time and money, making it less difficult to keep up with your rental condominium. 

Another viable option is to rent your condominium out long term to tenants, requiring a year or more lease. If you choose to go this route, make sure to conduct background checks on your tenants and retain a security deposit, or enlist a property management company to perform these tasks for you. This protects your interest in the event that your tenants leave without paying rent or do anything to harm your investment property. 

A condominium is yours for as long as you choose to own it, and it will likely appreciate in value over time. This means that when it comes time to sell, there may be a profit to be made.  You can always list your condominium for sale if a tenant occupies it too, and this can be viewed as an advantage to a buyer if that person is looking for a property to rent out, since with the tenant already in place, they will not have to find someone to occupy the unit. 

While you are in possession of your rental condominium, you may qualify for a second home tax advantage. This is something that you should discuss with your accountant in order to gain a full understanding of how it works and what benefits it offers you.

Some Of The Many Advantages Of Living In A Condo added 9-6-2013

If you are in the process of looking for a property to buy for either yourself or for you and your family, you have probably thought about buying a house. But have you thought about buying a condo? Condos are often overlooked by those who are home shopping, but there are several advantages to living in a condo over living in a house. Yes, the built-in community that comes with a condo may take a bit of getting used to, but it is possible that the pros outweigh the cons.

If you want to get the most "home" for your dollar, then the condo may be the better choice, according to an article written by the San Francisco Chronicle. Condos come with a variety of features not found in home purchases, many you may not be aware of.

Decide To Save Now or Pay Later

One of the main reasons people ignore condos as a living option is because of the mandatory HOA (Home Owner Association) fees. While it is true that condos require owners to pay HOA fees, so do a lot of housing neighborhoods. Even if the houses you are looking at do not have HOA fees, there are other benefits that may make you realize that buying a condo is a better choice.

Consider the cost of repairs for any type of home you live in. Over time, there will always be repairs and maintenance costs that you will have to deal with. One of the most expensive replacement costs is the roof. Having to replace the roof on your house can set you back tens of thousands of dollars. But you will not have to pay for many of the repairs and maintenance costs when you own a condo because of your HOA fees.

Other Benefits To Living In A Condo

 - Condos are often built in great locations. They might be right on the ocean, close to shopping, nightlife, dining, and entertainment. Houses, on the other hand, are often so far away from the above locations that you have to drive to them instead of being able to walk.

 - Condos almost always come equipped with great amenities. You are likely to find any of the following in a condo: Swimming pools, fitness centers, golf courses, or tennis courts.

 - Condos come complete with landscaping. That means someone else gets to cut the grass and pull the weeds, not you. When you own a home, however, you are the one responsible for these chores.

 - Condos are known for holding their property values over time. Additionally, you don't have to worry about your home being devalued by neighbors who neglect theirs. Condo owners are forced to keep their properties in good shape because of the HOA rules.

There are many great reasons for buying a condo, as you can see. Before buying a house, take a look at the condos in your area to see if one is right for you and your needs.

Buying A Vacation Property added 8-5-2013

Going On Vacation? Travel Tips And Tricks To Get The Most From Your Trip! added 7-3-2013

Get All The Home Security Questions You Have Answered added 6-4-2013

You should be concerned about the type of security you have for your home. You never know when criminals will enter someone's home and steal their possessions or harm them. Look at this piece to ensure your home is safe. You do not necessarily need an expensive home security system to protect your home. You can buy a dog. Dogs are great for home security. Not only will they protect your home while you are away, they are great additions to your family offering protection, companionship and additional security for your home.

After you buy your new house, get new locks. The person who previously owned the home may have made copies of keys. Changing the locks will give you peace of mind that you and your family are the only ones who have access to your home. When you lose your keys, have your locks rekeyed. Changing the locks on your home can be a great way to increase security. Locks should always be changed when buying a new home. There could be numerous people that had copies of the keys, from the real estate agent to the previous owners. Locks should also be changed whenever your keys become lost, or after a break-up in a relationship.

You should invest in fire-resistant roofing, flooring and ceiling. This give your home an extra protection layer. Preventing fires is the best way to deal with them. If your security system alarm goes off and scares the burglar away, you can be fined for a false alarm. If the police send someone to check your property in response to a security alert and no burglar is there, it is considered a false alarm. You can be fined and charged because your security system worked.

When planning to go away for a holiday, be sure to turn off the ringers on your home phones. A home phone that rings and rings is a good way for a potential thief to know if anyone is home. When doing yard work or fixes on the outside of your home, be sure to put ladders and tools away when you are done. If you keep out ladders, thieves can easily climb them to get into your home. At the same time, they could use tools, like hammers, to break your windows.

Don't allow anyone you don't know to look into your house. Even if their story is compelling, they need assistance or want to sell you something. Some people want to enter your home just to see if there is a security system in place. They may be scoping the place to come back when you're gone. Even if you're not going to be gone long, keep your home locked. In a lot of cases, home intruders enter through unlocked doors. They can get a ton of stuff quickly and be long gone before you return.

Make your home safer by storing your car inside the garage. Keep the car within the garage will make sure no one harms or steals it. Hiding your car from plain view will also keep potential intruders from tracking when you are home and when you aren't. If your front door does not have a peephole already, install one immediately. A small peephole can let you see who is at your doorstop without giving them the view of the inside of your home. If your intruder uses the front door to get into your house, a peephole can give you a head start on calling the cops.

Be sure to secure the skylights to your home. While they are nice and help with lighting, they also provide the burglars help with access to your home. Be certain to have skylights that incorporate strong, durable hardware. Leave your garage door closed, even if you are at home. A garage provides easy access into your home. Many people also store things of value in that space, making it attractive to intruders. Therefore, shut it whenever you are not outside in your yard. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Don't ever place your spare key under your mat or next you a plant box. You might think this protects you against being locked out of your home, but it also gives intruders access to your home. Thieves are aware of the best hiding spots. Ask a friend, neighbor or relative to keep your extra keys for you. Put down a fence in your yard to secure the area that is yours and prevent burglars from coming in. Make sure that this fence is high enough so that it is very difficult for any robbers to get over it. This will add a strong layer of protection around the perimeter of your house.

Be realistic about what you need to do in order to protect your family. Some things are inevitable, making it that much more important to be fully prepared. By applying this information, you are taking a major step toward protection of yourself, your home, and your family.

What You Should Know Before Traveling To A Foreign Country    added 5-3-2013

Traveling to a different country can be fun and exciting; however, there are several things that you should know before traveling outside of your country. Many laws are quite different in other countries that you may be unaware of. Read this article to find out what you should know before visiting a different country.

Each country comes with its own set of laws. If you are visiting another country, you are responsible for understanding and following the laws of the country. The easiest way to find out the laws of the country you are visiting is to do an Internet search. Spend time learning these laws before you visit. For example, dropping a piece of paper on the street in certain countries can land you in jail for a long period of time.

If you break a law in a foreign country, you may face harsher punishments than you would in your own country. For example, if you are caught speeding in another country, you may be subject to extreme fines and even jail times. By learning the laws of a country, you can save yourself problems.

In many cases, if you break a law in a foreign country, your home country will not help you. You can visit your local embassy for assistance; however, they are also required to follow the laws of the foreign country.

When choosing your destination, you must know where to turn to to get the information about the laws in the foreign country. You can visit your local library and do research on the laws, search the Internet for laws or even contact your local government for help.

If you do happen to get in trouble when visiting a foreign country, ask to speak with your country's local embassy worker. An official will come and speak with you and help you with your case. He or she may be able to recommend an attorney that will work with you. Additionally, the ambassador will be able to contact your family to let them know. He will also request that your family sends money to cover your trial expenses.

When it comes to foreign countries, the laws can be very different from what you are accustomed to following. By learning the local laws and abiding by them, you can stay out of trouble. If something does happen, ask to speak to your ambassador.

Six Essential Home Buying Tips   addded 4-8

Buying a home is overwhelming and if you haven't done your homework, it can really cost you. Look over the following six tips that can help prepare you for the home buying process and make sure you come out on top.

1. Know the area you're looking in. Many people opt to search based on the home and not the neighborhood, and this can get you the most appropriate house for your needs, but it's still very important to check out the location. Look into the school systems, property taxes and crime rates to become fully knowledgeable about the area

2. Secure your loan qualification before you start looking. Pre-qualification is essential to your bargaining power. Many owners don't want to deal with the maybes that are involved with people who haven't yet gotten a stamp of approval from a lending institution. Speak with your bank about the terms and find out what your position will be in terms of a down payment and purchase-power.

3. Find a well-qualified agent. Remember that Realtors are paid according to their sales, and that may put their interests ahead of yours. Look for someone with years of experience who has an outstanding reputation. If at all possible, get your agent based on the personal recommendation of someone you know and trust. Also, check with the BBB about the agency you are dealing with.

4. Know precisely what you want in a home. Have a predetermined list of qualities your family will need with the new house and share this information with your Realtor or buyer's agent. Such details may pale in comparison to the importance of price, but if you need a double-garage or certain amount of bathrooms, you should be looking at only those homes that can accommodate you.

5. Bring your own inspector. Once you've found a home you're willing to go to the bargaining table over, get it inspected thoroughly. Hiring your own professional will ensure that your interests are being guarded and that you understand completely what you will be getting yourself into. Ask about any repair, no matter how minor and get a rough estimate as to how much money you will need to invest to get the house in tip-top shape. This info can be used during negotiations and will also help you plan a budget. 

6. Keep your emotional cool. When looking for homes, it's very easy to get carried away. You can't help but picture yourself preparing dinner for the family in that incredible new kitchen or decorating the gorgeous bedrooms. This, however, can be dangerous. Don't allow yourself to get invested emotionally until other details have been accounted for. Make sure it's affordable, you can handle all repairs and that you're getting the best possible deal.

Knowledge is power in buying anything, but particularly with such a large purchase as a new home. Make sure you do your homework and are fully prepared for each step of the home buying process. All your efforts should pay off with the home of your dreams at terms you can live with.

Are You Looking For Home Security Advice? Check Out This Article!... added 3-5-2013

Insurance Tips You Can't Afford To Miss added 2-7-2013

Tips For Potential Solar Energy Users  added 1-9-2013

Green energy is quickly becoming an option for home owners who want to have energy independence. One form of green energy that is quickly gaining steam is solar energy. If the idea of using solar energy has piqued your interest, read this article, as it features tips for potential solar energy users.

Solar panel technology has advanced far beyond what it was in the past. Before, home owners who used solar panels had to use mono-crystalline panels if their roof didn't have a lot of space. These panels were efficient, but expensive when compared to other panels of the time. Now, polycrystalline panels and thin film panels can be used in limited areas. You'll need to take both energy output and panel size into consideration when purchasing solar panels. Opting for panels with lower energy outputs to save money might not be the best idea for homes with limited space, as the panels won't give you an optimal level of power for the space you have.

Your solar power system will need certification based on your area. Weather conditions can cause damage to a solar power system, so the roof, tracking system, and ground mounting will need to be able to withstand these conditions. Cyclone and wind certifications are important for areas that are prone to tornadoes and hurricanes. The last thing you want is for your home to be without power because parts of your system were blown away by a storm. There are a few suppliers who will use cheap mounting systems that can't even withstand a low level wind storm. Check warranty information and documentation of all certifications.

All solar power systems use a power inverter. The inverter links to the solar panels and your home and takes DC electricity provided by the panels. It then converts the electricity into AC electricity that can be used by the devices in your home. The inverter will vary between solar power systems, as some will be more efficient than others. More efficient inverters will have a shorter conversion time and as a result, less energy wasted as heat. Avoid using generic inverters that might have long conversion periods.

Never settle for the first price you see when it comes to solar power systems. It's best to shop around and get quotes for potential systems. Cheap prices may be enticing, but they may be using substandard parts that could leave you with an inefficient system and you'll be paying for expensive repair costs in the future. The perfect system will give you good quality parts with good installation, a long standing warranty, and and an affordable price.  Don't settle for anything less and you won't have any problems powering your home.

As the popularity of green energy rises, solar energy will be used by more homes. Solar energy makes it possible for home owners to power their homes while keeping the environment in mind. Everything you needed to know about purchasing solar energy was featured in this article, so use the tips and adopt the technology.

Tips To Make Your Home More Green  added 9-6-2012

In the past few years, the cost of gas and electricity has gone through the roof. Everyone is looking for a way to save money and going green is one way you can do that. The good thing about going green is that it helps save money while making the environment a much healthier place to live in. this article has a few tips you can use that will save the planet while you save a few dollars.

Change all of the standard light bulbs in your home to those that are more energy efficient. This is a very small change that can make a whole world of difference. While the green light bulbs cost a bit more, they last much longer, which means you would save a lot of money over time. Most energy efficient bulbs last for at least five years, while you would be lucky to get two or three months out of a regular bulb.

If you have lighting on the outside of your home, you should have motion detectors installed. This is a good idea because tons of light is wasted everyday by having outdoor lights on constantly. Most people install outdoor lighting so people can see when they are approaching the home. Motion detectors will still allow for that without being on all of the time.

The key to a comfortable home is having it cool in the warmer months and nice and toasty during the cold ones. Heating and air conditioning cost a ton, so you should try using it less. Weather stripping your home is a good way to do that. This process keeps air in your home for much longer. This means you can turn on your heater or air conditioner for a shorter time. Once you turn things off, the weather-stripping will help keep the temperature at the same level for a while.

Leaky faucets are a bigger deal than most people think. Gallons of water are wasted every day due to leaky faucets in the home. Some people put off fixing them due to expenses, but you end up losing more money in the long run. The world cannot afford to have this much water wasted every year. If you have a faucet that is not working properly, it is best to get it fixed as soon as you can.

It does not have to be a chore to go green. The tips above are simple things you can do to increase the energy efficiency of your home. Follow this advice to make your carbon footprint smaller and save yourself a bit of money.

Cutting-Edge Real Estate Advice For Property Buyers added 8-2-2012

If buying real estate is making your head spin, you should take time to do some serious research. If that's the case, the article below is a great fit for you. We will present guidelines that are easy to understand. If you are looking at buying a home and fixing it up to make some quick cash, you should first invest in some literature on the process and different books about how you can increase the value of your home. This will help you make the most out of your investment.

Make sure you stay connected with other investors like yourself. An array of properties are always going to be for sale, though some properties will be unsuitable for your needs. This can lead you to the perfect place that you might not have found otherwise. When buying a home you should try to think a bit into the future. This is a good idea because you do not want to have too little space for what you need. A couple should not buy a one bedroom home if there is a possibility that they will be having children sometime in the future.

Learn about what kinds of houses exist in the neighborhoods you're looking to buy in. The "best" house in the neighborhood may not be ideal for you. This is because smaller homes actually lower the value of other homes in the neighborhood. When purchasing a home, know that it really does not make much of a difference to the buyer if you are paying cash or getting a mortgage. To the seller money is money and that is what matters in the end. The fact that you want to pay cash does not make it more likely that they will accept a low ball offer.

Do your homework on your target area. Check websites including City-data.com to find out about foreclosed homes, median selling prices, housing backlogs and the average time on the market for homes in your Zip code. You will also find data on local employment and average income levels. Sometimes, a good product and location can cancel out the local trends. Never buy a home based on a real estate agent's description of the home. There are many agents who offer to sell homes and sign with clients when they have never even been to the homes themselves. If the buyer was dishonest then the agent would never know and could not make you aware of that.

Before you put an offer on a home, measure it yourself. Ensure that the listed size matches the public records. The two numbers should be within 100 square feet of each other; if they do not match, either reconsider buying the property, or figure out what is going on. Get your financing in order before you put in an offer on a short sale home. Lenders want to see that you are going to be able to finish the deal. If you are pre-approved, have a down payment, and are ready to close whenever necessary, they will give preference to your offer over others.

Be sure that any appraiser you are planning on hiring has had several years of experience in real estate. Do not hire an appraiser that comes recommended to you by a real estate agency. They may not be completely truthful because they are working with the real estate agency. It is also important to ensure your appraiser is properly licensed and certified. When considering the size of the house you would want to get, you should keep in mind what the average buyer is looking for if you want to consider the ease of reselling it in the future. The average buyer is looking for a three or four bedroom house. So this is something you should consider, if you can afford it, since this would help get more potential buyers in your home once you are ready to sell.

In conclusion, we have provided you some of the most crucial aspects regarding buying real estate. We hope that you not only were able to learn something, but that you also will be able to successfully apply it. Follow our advice and you will be one step closer to being an expert in this subject.  

For Help finding the perfect Puerto Vallarta Real Estate contact Michael at http://www.pvluxe.com

Home Improvement Tips That Can Add To Your House added 6-20-2012

If you have never heard about the concept of feng shui, proponents focus on creating positive energy in a room by the correct arrangement of the furniture. They believe that a clear doorway, for example, can help bring fortune into your home. Keep reading to figure out some different techniques for changing your home around.

A protective screen around your gutters is very valuable for saving money and reducing messes. These screens reduce the messes from leaves and debris, improving the look of your living space. Even with these screens, you might have to spend a few minutes getting rid of leaves on the screens, but this is preferable to removing them from the gutter itself.

Decide on your main style theme before you start to add customizing features onto your home. Your design choices will be determined by your personal decorating style. Try not to make changes in the middle of the project, as you should stick to your intended style. If this occurs, you'll end up spending lots more money making adjustments.

There are different kinds of hardware you need to use when doing home improvments. You need to know what hardware you need to buy to do your project the right way. If you are working on a project using wood, you want to use wood screws, as these are designed to easily screw into wood. Anything that involves sheet metalconstruction would benefit from screws designed specifically for that purpose.

Home improvements can be in the form of many different things, and done to accommodate any budget. You do not have to spend a fortune on a large construction project. If you have a small budget for home improvements, the best thing to do is smaller, less expensive projects, such as repainting or residing your home.

Feng shui is the idea that the placement of furniture can impact your home's energy flow and have a difference in your quality of life. Use this information to improve the appearance of your home as well as the value of your home.  

How to stay cool in Puerto Vallarta in the summer, added June 4, 2012

Q: I will be spending my first summer in PV.  How do I keep myself and my house cool and comfortable?  Gene W. Montreal

A:  Of course the obvious answer is to lock all the doors and windows, crank up your air conditioner and chill-out in a catatonic bliss.  And let’s face it; on the hottest, most humid afternoons in the “dog days” of August, this can seem like a pretty good idea!  However, this solution is not very frugal or eco-friendly, so here are some other tactics that have worked well for me:

1. Get the air moving.  Even a slight movement of 1 mph can make you feel a few degrees cooler.  Ceiling fans are the best; make sure the blades are pointed so the air is directed downward.  Portable fans are great in spaces where ceiling fans will not work.  Either option allows you to raise the thermostat on the A/C and still remain comfortable. 
2. Install shades, drapes and blinds.  The best way to keep your home cool is to keep the heat out!  There are some excellent blinds out now that cut out the UVA rays, allow for privacy and still let in the view.  Choose lighter colors that reflect the sun’s rays. 
3. Keep down the internal heat.  The largest indoor heat generators are the stove/oven and incandescent lighting.  Try to cook outdoors on the hottest days and use your range fan to exhaust heat outside the home.  Replace incandescent bulbs with fluorescents wherever possible.  These produce one/fifth the amount of energy and hear for the same amount of light. 
4. Plant trees and shrubs.  Just several strategically placed shade trees can significantly reduce your energy bill.  Tree shaded neighborhoods are typically 3-6 degrees cooler here.  Avoid landscaping with unshaded rock or cement especially on the south and west sides of the home as this increases temperatures around the house and radiates heat after the sun has set.
5. Dress the part.  Avoid wearing clothing made from synthetic materials.  Light coloredclothing in natural fabrics such as cotton and linen not only feels cool, it looks cool too.  A nice sprinkling of talcum powder before dressing will keep you feeling cool.  And if this fails, have a couple of gel packs or moist washcloths handy in the fridge.  These feel great behind your neck on hot day.
6. Take advantage of cool places.  Do your shopping, take in a movie, or enjoy a meal in an air conditioned restaurant during the hottest part of the day.

When all else fails and you need to use the air conditioner, make sure that the filters have been changed, nothing is blocking the air intakes and the system is fully charged.  Also make sure your home is sealed tightly, there is no point in air conditioning the outside.  And when you are sweaty and grumpy, don’t forget to drink lots of water and think cool thoughts.  October will be here soon enough and you will be here enjoying perfect weather while your friends back home are facing six months of rain, sleet, snow and darkness!

Keeping Good Credit in Six Simple Steps added 5-18-2012

If you have ever had to repair your credit, you want to make sure you never go there again. Unless you are a sucker for punishment a second time around, read on into the following paragraphs for tips on how to keep your good credit rating high.

From now until the end of time, make every payment you owe anyone on time. For structured loans, this builds credit. For more casual arrangements, this means engendering trust with the person you owe money to.

Use prepaid cards for your credit needs. This way you never spend more than what you have, but you also get regular reporting to your credit history.

If you do have an unsecured credit card, only go with one that has very high levels of security. Higher credit scores are more susceptible to identify theft and credit fraud, so make sure that your boosted credit score is protected by your credit card company. 

Even though you might feel tempted to close old accounts and walk away from bad memories, do not do it. Having open accounts for long periods of time means that you have regular and steady streams of data and information being compiled on your credit reports, boosting your overall scores.

Think about switching to a credit union. You need a different story to tell and lifestyle, so switching away from mainstream banks is a great step to take.

Do not file for bankruptcy. This will not only obliterate your credit report, it will do so for seven full years, possibly ten.

Keeping things simple keeps you out of traps you do not want to be in. Apply the ideas presented here to take care of yourself. Doing so will protect your credit history, reports, ratings and money, which just means a brighter financial future ahead.

For help getting Financing For  Puerto Vallarta Real Estate contact Michael Green

NEW CONCEPT, OPEN HOUSES PUERTO VALLARTA REAL ESTATE, BANDERAS BAY

Puerto Vallarta, México – For the first time, there is a concerted effort by the Banderas Bay real estate community to come together to create a structured open house series. Titled Parade of Homes, each week the public will have the opportunity to tour available homes in and around Puerto Vallarta listed in all price ranges through a variety of real estate agencies.

A new website has been launched in support of this campaign. By going to OpenHouse.com.mx, each week you’ll have the opportunity to tour available homes in and around Puerto Vallarta online, planning your own Parade of Homes tour.

Finally, a website that has combined the ease of searching for that perfect available villa or condo with an easy-to-use search tool showing homes that are open that week, days and hours that they will be open, plus maps so you can plan your own personalized tour, all in one place!

All can be found on the website for Parade of Homes – OpenHouse.com.mx. Searches can be done by a variety of options including location, price, type, number of bedrooms, etc.

Better yet, no appointments are necessary so all that you do is tour the homes online that are right for you, decide which homes you want to personally visit, then plan your strategy and print off the maps. No more going from one real estate site to another, many not showing if homes are open or not. Now, you have one site that does it all.

"We wanted to continue to offer Banderas Bay new ways to find their perfect home in paradise," stated Wayne Franklin, President of Tropicasa Realty. "This new program takes the Open House concept to the next level and brings together all of the Banderas Bay real estate community making it easier for people to find what they are looking for from all available homes throughout the bay and allows them to plan their own open house tour without having to make appointments."

Check it out today. It is easy, fun and free! You never know, you just might find the perfect vacation or retirement home. Not just happy searching, but happy informed searching, only at OpenHouse.com.mx. 

No Worries With These Do-It-Yourself Home Improvement Tips!-added 2-27-2012

 Be aware of the limitations of your skills, and know when it is time to call for help from a professional. Here we will offer you some sound advice about which projects to tackle on your own, and when to call a professional. Doing so can wear out the bristles of your broom. Instead, hang it up so the bristles will stay straight and continue to work well for a long time. Mops should also be hung up in a way that allows them to dry thoroughly and avoid mildew.

You may be able to make an improvement that will reduce your water bill through making plumbing more efficient. Low-flow shower heads, water-saving toilets and tank-less water heaters can be easily purchased and installed. Updated plumbing fixtures always increase your property's value, especially when they are eco-friendly. In addition, they'll significantly reduce your water bill.

Homeowners should avoid putting contractors' advice on a pedestal. Even top-notch contractors with great reputations will work in their own best interest when dealing with homeowners that are intimidated, uninvolved or overly agreeable. Always double check before agreeing to increasing the cost of the project or extending the deadline.

Don't forget to take safety into account when doing a home improvement project. You could hurt yourself or damage your home if you do not take certain safety measures. Carefully follow the instructions on power tools and other equipment, and prepare for your project with tutorials or other sources so that you know exactly what you need to do.

Turn off water if you are doing kitchen or bathroom home improvement projects. Whenever you will be working with pipes or the water supply, find the shutoff valve before you begin. Taking this step helps to prevent flooding.

Try a straight wall-mounted coat rack for a bracelet and necklace display. Use it just for costume jewelry, not expensive pieces. Making a display for your jewelry looks nice and helps keeps it tangle free. Keep your most commonly worn jewelry easy to get to.

There are some tasks that are meant for a professional and should never be placed in the hands of anyone whom hasn't chosen a career in home improvements. Always stick to your guns by only taking on assignments you know how to complete. Taking a chance might sound good in theory, but the result of failing can be not only a waste of time, but a waste of money too.

Ready to Buy a House? Make sure you look at these tips. added 2-24-2012

Buying a house is a major life-changing event which can alter your finances both positively and negatively. If you don't know what you're doing before you buy, you could be left with a disaster on your hands. Read on to find out what steps you need to take before you make an offer.

If you have only visited the house once, visit again. Check out the neighborhood in the daytime and at night. Things can change dramatically after the sun goes down! You also want to see what happens around the house itself at night, whether wildlife saunters through (not good if you have pets or children!) or how noisy passing cars might be. Maybe trains only pass at night and rattle the windows! Visiting a few times will give you a feel for the true nature of the house and it's surrounding area.

Ask about the house and how different seasons affect it. For example, if you live in an area with snow, can you get out the front door after a blizzard? How quickly is the street plowed after a snowstorm? Does the house have air conditioning? Is there condensation during the summer? Does anything leak in a rainstorm? Does it ever flood? Consider the area, weather concerns and how they could impact a house and ask everything you can think of to cover all bases.

Talk to the neighbors to get the real low-down on the area and the house. Has anything bad happened, like a fire? Is there much crime? Have you seen many repair trucks at the house recently? Neighbors are the best resource when it comes to sussing out good information.

Don't be too embarrassed to ask the seller a question! They'll be more than willing to help, but be sure to take what they say with a grain of salt. When I was buying my home, I asked one seller many questions about the utilities, and all her answers turned out to be false as she just wanted to sell. This is where the neighbors came in handy as they were more than honest about the area and I knew better than to buy there.

What you've read here is a primer on what you need to know before you submit your first offer. Use each tip, find out as much as you can know, and the house you select should end up exactly what you paid for. Good luck!

Economic and Health Advantages of Living In a Warmer Climate-added 11-22-11

Many of those living in the Northeast, Northwest and Midwest look to retiring or owning a second home in the Southeast or even Southwest. With chilly winter conditions, it is no wonder residents of cold climates long for warmer weather.

It is also little wonder universities and research organizations have conducted extensive studies into economic and health factors in cold versus warm climates. What has been gained from such empirical research only confirms what we already seem to intuitively know: warmer climates are easier on our wallet and better for our health.

But why are warmer climates more economically friendly and healthier than cold-weather climates? 

Economic Advantages of Living In a Warmer Climate: 

There are several advantages to living in a warmer climate, opposed to living in a cold-weather climate. Chief among them is the cost of home maintenance. To keep a home inhabitable during the winter months, home owner’s have to turn up the heat. It isn’t cheap to heat a home during a long winter.

Other maintenance costs include insulating against the cold. As winter after winter affects a home, more upkeep is needed. The cost of heating rises significantly when doors, windows, the basement and roof need to be re insulated. 

The cost of to maintain personal possessions extends to vehicles. Cars in cold climates are adversely affected by winter weather. Drivers in cold weather climates are all too familiar with the cost of owning a car in such an area.

Warmer climates also mean fewer entertainment expenses. There is no cost to stroll on a beach or take a dip in the water.

Health Advantages of Living In a Warmer Climate: 

In addition to economic benefits, living in a warmer climate has significant health advantages--especially for senior citizens. 

Warmer climates mean the opportunity to do more for longer periods of time. Unlike cold weather climates, the days are long year-round. Moreover, the spring and summer month “feel” extended over a greater period on the calendar. In warm climates, it isn’t unusual to enjoy mid-70s highs during the fall and temperatures reaching the mid-80s in the spring. 

Because people can be outdoors more means more opportunity to exercise and explore. That gives children a lot more room to explore and get out of the house. Senior citizens likewise can enjoy the revitalizing

outdoors just as much.

For expert help with Puerto Vallarta Real Estate contact Michael Green

When you get down to it, people live more productive, fuller lives in warmer climates. And their wallets and health thank them profusely.

Living In Puerto Vallarta

CONDE NAST TRAVELER calls the small but beautiful community of, Puerto Vallarte one of the top 10 best destination in the worldi; the reason? The "remarkable amiability of the local folk."

Seaside on the West coast of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta's unique value remains, even in 2011, basically undiscovered by most of the public travelers. The unbelievable lush Sierra Madre Mountains, white-sand clean beaches, and the small town surrounded by actual jungle folliage has every modern amenity though Old Town remains aged. 

The cultural diversity of Vallarta is reflected in the cuisine. Restaurants of various types of food are plentiful, all with beautiful, natural views from tableside windows. For activities, there is everything from easy hikes and mountain biking, to snorkeling, hot air ballooning, and horseback riding. Yachts are in slips ready to be rented by the half-day and longer. Sail boats and party boat cruises are also a choice. 

For more Information about Puerto Vallarta Real Estate contact me

Motels, hotels, and condominiums stand ready to be rented for the weekend, week or month. The prices in general are very reasonable, and the dollar is used as readily as the peso for currency. As opposed to treating tourists with an over-abundance of obligatory politeness, you'll find you are treated more as an instant friend. Local business people will quickly be calling you by name, talking about their community and listening to your travel plans, giving you directions in a helpful way. Be prepared to get many referrals to their favorite restaurant or nightclub. Being with family and relaxing is very important to residents, but in Vallarta, they love to play and enjoy a vigorous night life. 

Humpback whales come to mate every winter until March, sea turtles nest on the beaches in summer until October, and dolphins also inhabit the waters. Phenomenal sport fishing is popular and plentiful in yield.

Most public places speak Spanish of course, but also English to accommodate the many tourists that come and stay in their community. There are nearby archeological sites close at hand in the region of Ixtapa, dating back to 400 B.C. Puerto Vallarta is less than a one-hour flight away from Mexico City, the world's largest city with 25 million residents, and the site of the historical Aztec ruins. There is no reason NOT to want to enjoy the living in Puerto Vallarte...enjoy! You may be surprised to imagine it, but you may return to make this lovely seaside town your home!

Relocating to Puerto Vallarta

If you are thinking about relocating, Puerto Vallarta can be an excellent choice.

Located in the Mexican Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta in blessed with beautiful beaches, a great tourist industry, first class restaurants and first class museums.

Puerto Vallarta has seen a big development in the last few years becoming one of the most important beach destinations in the Pacific. therefore, Employment here is varied and so to get a job in certain industries  is not that complicated. If you are more interested in opening a business, the normal population in Puero Vallarta is 250,000 plus the tourist industry that sees both national and international tourism, opens the doors to new businesses.

The city has a very well established infrastructure, with first class hospitals, schools, an international airport and many new housing areas. Major stores provide all types and styles of food and house products. Services like Satellite TV, telephone and Internet are also offered by several companies.

For more Information about Puerto Vallarta Real Estate contact me

Housing developments offer a wide-open range of options, from smaller homes, Condos and Townhomes  to larger estate style homes. Typically most developments are located close to schools and stores. In addition there is also public transportation available.

The weather is another plus that Puerto Vallarta offers. With an average of 30∫ average all year long, a short rainy period and it’s warm winters, will please even the most demanding person.

No matter if you are retiring or just in search of a new place to live and work, Puerto Vallarta is ta great option for you and your family. Here you can enjoy the amazing beaches, play golf, go fishing or just relax in paradise.

added 9-11-11