#home for sale in puerto vallarta

[beachsiderealestategroup]

Home for Sale in Puerto Vallarta

Beachside Real Estate Group is pleased to offer you the opportunity to purchase your dream home in Puerto Vallarta. We have a wide variety of properties to choose from, so you're sure to find the perfect one for your needs. Our team of experienced agents will work with you every step of the way to make sure you get the best possible deal. Contact us today to learn more!

[puertovallartas]

Puerto vallarta vacation home rentals

Indulge in the finest Puerto Vallarta vacation villas and condos that grace this breathtaking destination. Puerto Vallarta vacation home rentals span from the serene southern shores to the northern splendor of Puerto Vallarta and its surroundings. Explore a vast array of exquisite villas, condos, and real estate in Puerto Vallarta, available for both rent & sale. Your perfect vacation home is just a click away!

[zorbatulum]

High Demand for Vacation Homes

A great demand for vacation homes near scenic locations is on the rise. This is good news for North Americans as it can improve job market opportunities and the country's economy. Investing in summer homes or getaway spaces can also add fun during your vacation times.

Property Buying Has Gained Momentum

Property agents and estate brokers suggest that second-home sales have picked up after the lockdown period. Nowadays, the main attractions for homebuyers are factors such as low-interest rates and the best deals. Realtors feel that cash is still the most preferred payment method for second-home buyers. According to a second-home buyers survey, nationwide sales of personal vacation homes rose by almost 25% in the year 2020. There was a general rebound in the American housing market after the pandemic. Companies and businesses offered work-from-home flexibility to many employees and demand for vacation homes grew further.

Reasons For A Solid Lift In Second-Home Sales:

People were fed up with being cooped up in their houses without any fun travels

Buyers in scenic vacation spots are eager to make all-cash offers rather than wait for slow-process deals with banks

More property spaces were being built exclusively as seasonal and recreational units

Quick economic growth post-pandemic contributed to the home-buying spree

Beach vacation spots, mountainous locations, tourist destination areas, and small picturesque townships are all prime vacation-home buying spots.

A promising and active market in all kinds of home-buying price segments, especially for the higher-end properties

Hottest Mexican Locations for Vacation House Market

You may consider Tulum vacation homes in Mexico. Tulum city is one of the leading hotspots attracting hoards of travelers and global tourists. Other places such as Puerto Vallarta, Rocky Point, Carmen, Los Cabos, and Cancun have also gained popularity as vacation spots over the years.

Tulum Villas & Deluxe Vacation Homes

Once a forgotten seaside town in the Mexican archaeological site in the Yucatan area, Tulum has transformed into a vibrant resort city with numerous vacation destination areas. With sandy beaches, a turquoise-colored sea, and charming oceanic beauty, Tulum is now seen as a sparkling diamond. It is home to ancient Mayan ruins and archaeological sites.

Trendy oceanfront Tulum villas and apartments built near amazing cenotes and other cultural wonders can be considered ideal Tulum vacation homes. If you want a vacation home in a natural and spectacular Mexican place, Tulum with its share of oceanfront activities and archaeological adventures can be the most inspiring second-home property to invest in.

Your search for wondrous holiday homes in Tulum can find fruition at Zorba Tulum beach-side villas and resorts. You can enjoy a luxurious stay in their fabulous boutique-style homes with friends and family. You can thus experience the joy of vacation homes in Tulum before deciding to invest in one. 

[timpvrpv]

Buy the right investment property Whether you’re searching for homes, villas, condos, commercial property or land for sale in Puerto Vallarta or the Banderas Bay Region, let the Real Estate experts at PVRPV Real Estate help you. We can show you how this vibrant real estate market functions, and how you can navigate the process with ease. #pvrpv #pvrpvrealestate #PVrealestate #incomeproperty #vacationhome #celebrating17years https://www.pvrpvrealestate.com/buying (at PVRPV.com) https://www.instagram.com/p/CgR0uSYuWWe/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[vrrealty]

Ready To Move To A Paradise? Look For The Condos For Sale In Nuevo Vallarta

There are many reasons why millions of people wish to visit the Nuevo Vallarta each year. The condo and development market in the Nuevo Vallarta is growing significantly in the past few years. In fact, you can find many condos which are most attractive here. It is said that the condos sales are increasing every year by about 20%. And it is expected that this rise will continue to grow in the upcoming years.

If you are a vacationer or an individual who is preparing for retirement, you must be looking for the best place to relocate. Nuevo Vallarta is the best place to relocate and is also considered one of the best places for investment in recent years.

After fixing your mind, you can look for the condos for sale in Nuevo Vallarta. You can find the Nuevo Vallarta condos for sale based on your location. You can find single-family or multi-family homes based on your wish here. Most of the time, the condos will be within the walking distance of most of the activities.

Why look for the condos for sale in Nuevo Vallarta?

1. You don’t need to dedicate time to constructing a new one – As you wish to relocate to a new place, you would be worried about the building. But you don’t need to spend time and money on new construction since you can find many condos for sale in Nuevo Vallarta. In this way, you don’t need to spend time worrying about anything. Just look at the condos and if it is satisfying you can buy them.

2. Best ROI – If you are looking for the Nuevo Vallarta condos for sale for your temporary stay for a few years also, you can purchase them. After staying there for a few years, you can sell it easily. Since many people love to stay in this place, you will not find it difficult to sell the condos. Just think of the best time to buy it and decide on the other things later.

3. Ask your questions to the seller – When you look for the Nuevo Vallarta condos for sale it is common to have many doubts. You can clarify all the doubts with the seller or the broker. This will make you feel confident during this process.

4. You can enjoy your days here – Everyone wishes to have a happy life and heaven is in Nuevo Vallarta. There are many activities in which you can participate to make your days enjoyable. The atmosphere here will make you happy and calm all the time. If you spend a day here you will find that your heart wishes to stay here forever.

Maintaining the property bought here is also an easy one. Hence, without getting worried you can keep an eye on the advertisements about the condos for sale in Nuevo Vallarta to choose the best property that suits your needs and budget. After this purchase, you can enjoy your days in Nuevo Vallarta.

[galvanrealestate1]

Batten down the hatches! Before we know it High Season 2021- 2022 will be upon us and no matter how much we plan and how well organized we think we are… the first few weeks of November serve as a humble reminder of what we didn’t accomplish and what we still need to do!

[newstfionline]

Sunday, December 20, 2020

Americans Are Drinking More During The Pandemic (NPR) When the pandemic began spreading across the U.S. in March, stores, restaurants and schools closed down. But liquor stores in many parts of the U.S. were deemed essential and stayed open. Alcohol sales have ticked up during the pandemic, so maybe it’s a good time to ask yourself: Are you drinking more than you’d like to be? R. Lorraine Collins, a psychologist at the University of Buffalo, recommends asking yourself, “Are you keeping alcohol as ... a special beverage for limited situations, or are you engaging in alcohol use across the board?” A break from alcohol can lead to a range of outcomes. As we’ve reported, a 2016 British study of people who participated in a monthlong “Dry January” break, found that 82% said they felt a sense of achievement. “Better sleep” was cited by 62%, and 49% said they lost some weight. Maybe you hike farther, have better conversations or get better sleep. Notice if your life feels richer to you. If we’re stuck at home for now, why not give it a try? What do you have to lose?

‘Do as I say’: Anger as some politicians ignore virus rules (AP) Denver’s mayor flies to Mississippi to spend Thanksgiving with his family—after urging others to stay home. He later says he was thinking with “my heart and not my head.” A Pennsylvania mayor bans indoor dining, then eats at a restaurant in Maryland. The governor of Rhode Island is photographed at an indoor wine event as her state faces the nation’s second-highest virus rate. While people weigh whether it’s safe to go to work or the grocery store, the mayor of Austin, Texas, heads to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, on a private jet after hosting a wedding for 20. California’s governor dines at a swanky French restaurant with lobbyists, none wearing masks, a day after San Francisco’s mayor was there for a birthday party. Both had recently imposed tough rules on restaurants, shops and activities to slow the spread of the virus. To the public’s chagrin, some of America’s political leaders have been caught preaching one thing on the coronavirus and practicing another. Sure, politicians have long been called out for hypocrisy. But during a pandemic that’s forced millions into seclusion and left many without paychecks, such actions can feel like a personal insult—reinforcing the idea “that some people just don’t have to follow the rules while the rest of us do,” says Rita Kirk, a professor of communications at Southern Methodist University. Pandemic-era hypocrisy has only deepened the polarization in a time already marked by division, emboldening those who doubt the seriousness of the virus and dividing people’s responses based on political affiliations.

Hacked networks will need to be burned ‘down to the ground’ (AP) It’s going to take months to kick elite hackers widely believed to be Russian out of the U.S. government networks they have been quietly rifling through since as far back as March in Washington’s worst cyberespionage failure on record. Experts say there simply are not enough skilled threat-hunting teams to duly identify all the government and private-sector systems that may have been hacked. FireEye, the cybersecurity company that discovered the intrusion into U.S. agencies and was among the victims, has already tallied dozens of casualties. It’s racing to identify more. “We have a serious problem. We don’t know what networks they are in, how deep they are, what access they have, what tools they left,” said Bruce Schneier, a prominent security expert and Harvard fellow. Many federal workers—and others in the private sector—must presume that unclassified networks are teeming with spies. Agencies will be more inclined to conduct sensitive government business on Signal, WhatsApp and other encrypted smartphone apps. The only way to be sure a network is clean is “to burn it down to the ground and rebuild it,” Schneier said.

College students recruited as teachers to keep schools open (AP) As the coronavirus sidelines huge numbers of educators, school districts around the country are aggressively recruiting substitute teachers, offering bonuses and waiving certification requirements in order to keep classrooms open. Coming to the rescue in many cases are college students who are themselves learning online or home for extended winter breaks. In Indiana, the 4,400-student Greenfield-Central school district about 20 miles (32 kilometers) east of Indianapolis made a plea for help as its substitute pool shrank. “I said, ‘If you’ve got a student who’s in college, maybe they’d like to work even a two-month thing for us—which would be a stopgap, no doubt—but it will help us a whole, whole bunch,” said Scott Kern, the Greenfield-Central Community School Corporation director of human resources. Over a dozen college students answered the call including his own daughter, 19-year-old Grace Kern, who is studying medical imaging technology at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis. She has been working in elementary school classrooms, helping students as teachers offer instruction remotely via a screen inside the room.

An Ex-Governor Is Gunned Down, Punctuating a Deadly Year for Mexico (NYT) The former governor of the state of Jalisco was gunned down early Friday while vacationing in the resort city of Puerto Vallarta, the authorities said, a brazen killing that further illustrated the government’s struggles to rein in the deadly violence that has surged across Mexico over the past five years. The killing of the ex-governor, Aristóteles Sandoval, who was shot in the back inside a restaurant restroom, is one of the highest-profile political killings in Mexico in recent memory, security experts said. Mr. Sandoval was killed just hours before President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and his cabinet delivered a grim update on the nation’s security situation during a news conference. More than 31,000 murders were recorded in Mexico this year as of November, the latest month for which government statistics are available, a figure roughly on pace with 2019. But homicides have nearly doubled over the past five years.

Bosnian city of Mostar gets a vote (AP) Irma Baralija is looking forward to Sunday, when she intends to vote and hopes to win her race as the southern Bosnian city of Mostar holds its first local election in 12 years. To make that vote possible in her hometown, the 36-year-old Baralija had to sue Bosnia in the European Court of Human Rights for letting a stalemate between two major nationalist political parties prevent her, along about 100,000 other Mostar residents, from voting or running in a municipal election for over a decade. By winning in court in October 2019, Baralija believes she has “busted the myth (that nationalist parties) have been feeding to us, that an individual cannot move things forward, that we matter only as members of our ethnic groups.” Left without fully functioning institutions, Mostar—one of the impoverished Balkan country’s main tourist destinations—has seen its infrastructure crumble, trash repeatedly pile up on its streets and hazardous waste and wastewater treatment sludge dumped in its only landfill, which was supposed to be for non-hazardous waste.

India’s virus cases cross 10 million as new infections dip (AP) India’s confirmed coronavirus cases have crossed 10 million with new infections dipping to their lowest levels in three months, as the country prepares for a massive COVID-19 vaccination in the new year. Dr. Randeep Guleria, a government health expert, said India is keeping its fingers crossed as the cases tend to increase in winter months. India is home to some of the world’s biggest vaccine-makers and there are five vaccine candidates under different phases of trial in the country.

Israel’s top-secret Mossad looks to recruit via Netflix, Hulu and Apple TV (Washington Post) After decades in the shadows, Israel’s foreign intelligence agency, the Mossad, has been getting a lot of airtime, both on the news and in popular TV thrillers. In real life, details of operations attributed to Israel are in the open like never before, including the theft two years ago of a trove of nuclear secrets from inside Iran, last summer’s drive-by killing of al-Qaeda’s No. 2 in Tehran and the assassination last month of Iran’s top nuclear scientist, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh. And on the screen, streaming hits like Apple TV Plus’s “Tehran,” Netflix’s “The Spy” and Hulu’s “False Flag” have starred the Mossad as a cold, ruthless and efficient machine. Far from squirming, the once-supersecret agency has welcomed the exposure, former spies say. The Mossad needs recruits. Military veterans who might have once made their career in national service now leave to work for lucrative start-ups, or found their own. Israeli companies Waze, Wix, Viber and others were started by intelligence veterans. In response, Yossi Cohen, the Mossad’s director since 2016 and a close ally of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has embarked on a hiring spree, increased the agency’s number of sabotage operations and enlarged its budget by billions of shekels. The Mossad’s recruitment drive includes a heightened social media presence and a calculated trickle of unconfirmed information about its exploits. And former spies say the agency is quietly embracing a slew of TV shows and movies that could do for the agency what “Top Gun” famously did for naval recruitment: make a life in the organization seem cool again.

Chaos and jubilation as freed Nigerian schoolboys reunite with family (Reuters) Parents sobbed, mobbed their children in hugs and even kissed the ground in gratitude on Friday as they reunited with scores of schoolboys who had been kidnapped a week earlier in northwest Nigeria. Hundreds of adults jostled to find their offspring among the 344 dusty and dazed looking children who had arrived by bus in Katsina state on Friday morning. Those who succeeded cheered and grabbed their children, but scores more were still waiting by early evening. “I feel like God has granted me paradise because I am so happy,” said an ebullient Hamza Kankara after she found her son, Lawal, in the crowd. Another man knelt and kissed the ground, thanking God for the return of his young son, before clutching the boy and sobbing.

[pvkid]

Fan Page RobotNew Content!Social Media Images - Puerto Vallarta lang:en (for The pvkid) 40The Mexican Riviera awaits: Norwegian Jewel temporarily docked at the . Who’s ready to start sailing to Puerto Vallarta again? #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost is scheduled on Tuesday, August 4, 12:35pm America/Mexico_City Edit/Repost 30I’ve definitely hit rock bottom... thanks for the tequila Puerto Vallarta! #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost is scheduled on Wednesday, August 5, 9:42am America/Mexico_City Edit/Repost 23Some renderings of a beautiful livingroom in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. If you have to fix anything many times in post, pleaseee do it in 3D. Don't make my mistake I have to change the exterior in like 6 renders #design #VRay #3dsMax #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost is scheduled on Thursday, August 6, 1:56pm America/Mexico_City Edit/Repost 20Just realized the people I know who screamed “build the wall” are the same people who love vacationing in Cancún, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo, Tulum, etc. Hmm... #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost is scheduled on Friday, August 7, 1:35pm America/Mexico_City Edit/Repost 18"Peeling Potatoes in Puerto Vallarta" by Lynne Knight via and #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://www.versedaily.org/2020/peelingpotatoesinpuertovallarta.shtmlPost This 17The sun sets on the Puerto Vallarta Malecon. #Mexico #SundaySunsets Please share your sunrises & sunsets tagging ⁦ ⁩ ⁦ ⁩ ⁦ ⁩ ⁦ ⁩ #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This 17What #puertovallartagay businesses are open? #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://gaypv.com/newsblog/lgbt-travel-3/some-puerto-vallarta-businesses-announce-reopening-dates/Post This 13Coming up on the hour at 6pm Pacific tune into for . Tonight is dedicated to LP ft. music curated by musician Erik Deutsch, broadcasting live from 96.3 FM in Puerto Vallarta, #Mexico streaming at #FreeLeonardPeltier #music #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://jaliscorsdio.comPost This 8 The best #PuertoVallarta restaurants are out of plain sight Find them in the #gaytravel guide - #wolfyy #gaymexico #gaypride #การท่องเที่ยว #PV #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://wolfyy.comPost This 8Update on Puerto Vallarta Mass Kidnapping of Off Road Sports Enthusiasts. #Vallarta #PuertoVallarta #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This 6Beginning of 2020 vs Now Eating a mango on the beach in Puerto Vallarta the first week of January vs sitting at home in my garlic bread oodie, praying for the sweet release of death #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://twitter.com/dioruzui/status/1289324525516070912Post This 3Café des Artistes in Puerto Vallarta & Tuna Blanca in Punta de Mita, announced the awards received, as well as the sanitary measures they have adopted for the safety of clients and staff. ---> By Vallarta Lifestyles #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://bit.ly/33dXj65Post This 3 Our view from hotel near Puerto Vallarta. #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This 2Be amazed and revive the vibrant colors of this magical town. Imagine, be inspired, and dream again. Smile, we are going back to Puerto Vallarta! #EventProfs #MeetingProfs #DMCNetwork #RevivePuertoVallarta #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This 2Discover why Puerto Vallarta’s Downtown makes anyone fall in love! Read the article here #Downtown #PuertoVallarta #Mexico #MondayMotivation #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://readr.me/2nrixPost This 2 OMMMGGGGGG There’s this bombbbbbb spot in Puerto Vallarta by the malecón that sells tacos al pastor 🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤 I dream about those tacos #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This 2That vacation relaxation state of mind when you stay at Villa del Palmar Puerto Vallarta For travel until December 19th, 2021 Book Toll-free 1.888.880.7462 #VillaDelPalmar #PalmarVallarta #PuertoVallarta #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://bit.ly/BookNow-vdppvPost This 1 I agree, but, please explain this awesome paradisio pic! I hope you had a great time! Reminds me of Puerto Vallarta. #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This 1#Top4Theme #Top4Nights ! Puerto Vallarta Las Vegas Los Angeles Miami Beach Please share yours tagging hosts #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This 1Puerto vallarta fishing where the fish always bite. Puerto Vallarta fishing charters #PuertoVallartaFishingCharters Toll free for reservations or latest fishing report 8004306048 #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://www.travelvallarta.comPost This 1ISPWP Member Spotlight: Julien Leveau, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico wedding photographer. #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://bit.ly/2vyeoWlPost This 1Our type of vacation is the ones that include breakfast. Book now and start your getaway to Puerto Vallarta: #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://sher.at/6018GwsEoPost This 1Puerto Vallarta was a sleeper in my trip to Mexico! Sayulita was just amazing!: #travel #mexico #travelblog #mezcal #foodie #jalisco #thepvkid #thepvkid #thepvkid #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://readr.me/zi4fuPost This 1On Special for August...Franny's #Churro French Toast! Complete with mini-churros and authentic Mexican chocolate. Franny says, "It's like having dessert for breakfast on a playa in Puerto Vallarta! #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://www.brunchonclark.comPost This 1August Vicariously back to Puerto Vallarta... #Flashback #VirtualReality #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This 1The jungle in Puerto Vallarta is looking green #comeridewithus #puertovallarta #estigotours #welovepv #amopv #mexicolindo #ilovepv #privatetourspuertovallarta #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This Flying with Your Pet Onboard There have been some new regulations in the past year regarding flying with in-cabin pets. #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://bit.ly/3gqnwCqPost This On the fourth day in Puerto Pit Bulls dont have a voice so you will never stop hearing mine shirt . Vallarta, the storm arrived. First came the wind. Then the sky turned purple. The photographer banged on our doors. #PitBullsdonthaveavoicesoyouwillneverst #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://kingteeshops.com/product/pit-bulls-dont-have-a-voice-so-you-will-never-stop-hearing-mine-shirt/Post This PROMOTED: The Daily is the place to find the best deals around Ball State and Muncie! Check out The Marketplace for special deals on dining, housing and more at Special thanks to our Marketplace Sponsor Puerto Vallarta Muncie. #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://www.ballstatedaily.com/marketplacePost This Organic Coconut Yogurt. Orders by whats app. 322 2007802 Deliveries Puerto Vallarta Daily..!!!! #probioticos #delranchoatumesa #organicselectpv #vegan #organic #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This One click away from exceeding your expectations for fishing and beautiful Puerto Vallarta Mexico. #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://readr.me/u-1kfPost This Preparing to Sell? What You Need to Know About Real Estate Tax Law in Mexico: Capital Gains Taxes: In Mexico, the concept of capital gains tax does not apply in the same way it is determined in the United States.#puertovallarta , #realestate , #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://bit.ly/3fazbniPost This Own THE majestic view of Puerto Vallarta from the coveted Queen Penthouse at Tres Mares. A grand residence overlooking the marina & vibrant town of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. #luxuryrealestate Sale price: by request Paulina Padilla paulina .com #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://www.lprluxurypuertovallarta.com/tresmaresPost This Mercurio Swim’s mission is to create men’s swimwear of high quality, excellent fit, and limited production for local guys and tourists in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Read the full article: Mercurio Swim: A Bathing Suit For Everyone #MetLuisTello #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://lttr.ai/UgptPost This Here are some photos from the sunny Malecon in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. It’s a real cultural gem, overlooking Banderas Bay. I so want to go again! (photos are portrait) #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This There is a New post (Van Nuys to Puerto Vallarta - Phenom 300) on our website - Watch it there -> #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://omyplane.com/aircrafts/embraer/phenom-300/van-nuys-to-puerto-vallarta-phenom-300/?utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=OmyplanePost This Isla Marietas Paraíso de Nayarit Beginning in the mid ‘80’s in Puerto Vallarta, we began fishing trips on pangas, which are open boats and dot the shoreline up and down the shores of #PuertoVallarta . #beachvacation #familyvacation #lgbtqvacation #beach #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://bit.ly/3gBmNhyPost This Seventy years ago Puerto Vallarta was a sleepy seaside village on Mexico's central Pacific coast. Then in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s Hollywood and the international jet-set, and then mainstream tourists.. #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://ow.ly/693Z30r1GFZPost This United Resuming Puerto Vallarta Flights #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://buff.ly/2XlEHNQPost This Situated on the shores of Banderas Bay Villa del Palmar Puerto Vallarta is the perfect place for a fun and relaxing getaway! #EscapeToParadise #MyUVCI #VillaDelPalmar #PuertoVallarta #Mexico #VillaGroup #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This If you're an art lover, consider visiting Puerto Vallarta. #travel #vacation #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://cpix.me/a/102027619Post This Summertime is a Good Time to Research Margaritas - There may be a restaurant in Puerto Vallarta that doesn't serve margaritas but, if such a place exists, we certainly aren't familiar with it... unless it's a café that doesn't serve alcoholic beverages. #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This You can't beat the fun in Puerto vallarta Mexico where the friendliest people in the world live. Puerto Vallarta fishing #PuertoVallartaFishing Best fishing boats in Puerto Vallarta Toll free 8004306048 to see what been biting lately #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://www.travelvallarta.comPost This Loft 268 - 501 1Bed 1Bath Romantic Zone, Puerto Vallarta Cleaning Service: Once a week, Occupancy: 2 guests max. #vacationrentals #propertymanagement #vacationhomerentals #travel #puertovallartarentals #palmeravacations #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://bit.ly/loft501Post This Free Delivery from our farm/bakery to your home. (Puerto Vallarta only) Orders in by 11:00 am out by 3:00 -6:00 pm Whats app 3222007802 #fromourfarmtoyourtable #delranchoatumesa #local #productosorganicos #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://www.organic-select.comPost This Act Now. . . Organize Your Move to Puerto Vallarta - #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid https://mailchi.mp/expatsinvallarta/8dvhs6rer6-503102Post This 396 Hectares (almost 1000 Acres)of Land Just over 1 hour south of Puerto Vallarta with 1.2 Kilometers of Pristine, Private Ocean Frontage...FOR SALE! Fully Titled and all paperwork legal & ready to go! Call our office at +52 322 368 6393 and start packing! #PuertoVallarta #thepvkidPost This US Educator Aims to Bring Technology to Puerto Vallarta School #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid http://upflow.co/l/4cuRPost This Puerto Vallarta's Mayor assured tourists the city is safe after ambush #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid #PuertoVallarta #thepvkid

[basrieminibusinessconsultant]

Basri Emini, Professional Biography : American Business Consultant

BASRI EMINI

PO Box 11207 > Chicago, IL 60611 > (312) 550-3291 > basri@ayiapuntamita.com

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY CREATIVITY | LEADERSHIP | INNOVATION

A proven visionary and strategic leader that translates innovative business concepts into maximum profits commensurate with the best interest of partners, customers, employees, and the public. An expert in identifying undervalued assets; creating unique market opportunities; efficitve cost and operation controls; developing strategic initiatives; unique abilitiy to put together a stellar team of talent. Very knowledgeable in real estate development and hospitality/entertainment industries with proven track record of sales success. Dedicated to maintaining a reputation built on quality, service, and uncompromising ethics.

AREAS OF EXPERTISE > Real Estate Development > Real Estate Sales > Strategic / Tactical Planning > Property Management > Business Development > Start-Up Business

Planning > Extensive marketing

Background > Mortgage & Real Estate Lending > Restaurant Operations > Creative Concept Development

RECENT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE EMINI EQUITIES – PUNTA MITA, NAYARIT MEXICO (WWW.PUNTAMITA.COM/WWW.AYIAPUNTAMITA.COM) 2008 – present

PRESIDENT / CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Organized and established a real estate development company and completed a successful condo conversion project in Punta Mita, Mexico, considered to be among the top luxury second home communities in the world.

Oversaw the construction upgrade of a 27-unit luxury boutique condominium project. Managed operations and promotion of the successful condo rental program during the economic recession, when property sales stalled, enabling the project to not only maintain value, but increase in value.

Provided senior management business-level discussion and decisions involving business vision and strategy, enterprise-level decisions, standardization of best practices, and project governance oversight.

> Managed administrative, legal, marketing and financial functions for the project and its partners. > Developed strategies to improve project cash flow and minimize losses.

ACHIEVEMENTS: > Had numerous sales in “09-10” during a world economic recession. > Substantially reduced overhead and operating costs through staff reduction and operational efficiencies. Overhead was reduced as much as 60% while continuing to maintain a luxury quality of standard.

> Completed renovations and upgrades to the project resulting in an increase in value of each unit of 40%. Despite the challenging economic conditions during this time period, property values have been maintained.

> Created a concept so innovative that Emini was featured for the Ayia project in the New York Times, CS

Magazine, USA Today, El Financiero, Estilo Mexico, and other top publications.

B A S R I EMIN I P A G E 2

LOS VENEROS – COSTA BANDERAS, NAYARIT MEXICO (WWW.LOSVENEROS.COM) 2006 – 2008

DIRECTOR OF SALES THE RANGE RESTAURANT – EL PASO, IL 2003 – 2006 THE PARK RESTAURANT – BLOOMINGTON, IL 2005 – 2006

OWNER/OPERATOR PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE - CONTINUED

EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW Basri is a unique individual—exemplary of true entrepreneurial talent—with a singular ability to motivate, inspire, and identify the talent and resources needed to get a job successfully completed. With an indefatigable work ethic and passionate enthusiasm, Basri already has an impressive record of success, in the restaurant and other industries, despite his young age. The restaurant business is what gave Basri the start and love of the Real Estate business by accruing the property, remodelling, opening the operation and put in place a quick sale with combined real estate and business.

By his late twenties, Basri had already opened four successful restaurants of his own. The first was located in Barrington, IL, and was owned and operated by Basri from 1992-1996. From 1996-1999, he followed on his early success with three other high-end family-styled restaurants, located in Madison, Wis., and Elgin, IL. Demonstrating his ability to quickly reach results, all were opened within six months of inception, and all were subsequently sold for a substantial profit. From 2001 to 2005, Basri turned his attention to central Illinois, where he created a concept of bringing fine dining and service to traditional family restaurant markets, providing an affordable option that still offered more sophisticated style and service. His two restaurants, The Range (El Paso, IL) and The Park (Bloomington, IL) were sold in 2006 for a profit. During this time, Basri was also featured on a weekly morning news program, bringing his infectious enthusiasm for good food and good times to the airwaves.

Since moving to Punta Mita, Mexico in November 2006, Basri has been involved in the resort real estate business in this area, initially as top-performing sales executive and director of sales of the Los Veneros condominium project from initial launch of project, personally generating over $18,000,000 in sales and overseeing total sales in excess of $49,000,000 in its first year. In addition, Basri has provided consulting services to a variety of other area projects.

As an entrepreneur who believes in diversification, Basri’s ventures extend into the independent mortgage brokerage business and the importation and sale of fine Persian rugs, in addition to the restaurant and real estate industries. Over the years, he has established an impressive network of professional contacts throughout the United States, Latin America, Europe and Middle East. Basri enjoys taking on new challenges and seeing them to a successful completion, working to achieve a rapid turnaround.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND AFFILIATIONS

AMPI (Professional Real Estate Broker Association, Mexico) Punta Mita Developers Association Puerto Vallarta Tourism Advisory Council National Restaurant Association B A S R I EMIN I P A G E 2

EDUCATION BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION University of Illinois – Urbana-Champagne, IL ACTIVITIES & INTERESTS Family, Soccer, Little League Soccer Coach, Karate – Green Belt, Golf , Punta Mita Residents’ Beach Club Owner’s Council Cooking, Entertaining

[beachsiderealestategroup]

Exploring properties for sale in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico has never been more accessible. Utilizing the services of Beachside Real Estate provides you with a seamless experience in perusing single-family homes, townhomes, condos, and commercial properties in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico. Unlike a mere listing of houses for sale, Beachside Real Estate offers a comprehensive approach to understanding the real estate landscape. Gain immediate access to a wealth of pertinent information regarding Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico real estate, encompassing property descriptions, virtual tours, maps, and photographs.

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Puerto vallarta vacation home rentals

Indulge in the finest Puerto Vallarta vacation villas and condos that grace this breathtaking destination. Puerto Vallarta vacation home rentals span from the serene southern shores to the northern splendor of Puerto Vallarta and its surroundings. Explore a vast array of exquisite villas, condos, and real estate in Puerto Vallarta, available for both rent & sale. Your perfect vacation home is just a click away!

[mlsvallarta-blog]

Buying Real Estate in Mexico

Puerto Vallarta Real Estate 101

It is a common misconception that foreigners cannot own real estate in Mexico, but the reality is that they can. Buying real estate in Mexico is perfectly legal for a foreigner or foreign corporation to acquire any type of real estate, holding the property as a direct owner, with the exception of properties located in the Restricted Zone.

The Mexican Constitution regulates the ownership of land and establishes that "… in a zone of 100 kilometers along the border or 50 kilometers along the coast, a foreigner cannot acquire direct ownership of the land". These areas are known as the "Restricted Zones" or "Prohibited Zones".

Nevertheless, the latest Mexican Foreign Investment Law, enacted December 28, 1993, provides a solution. Within the Restricted Zone, a foreigner or foreign corporation can obtain all the rights of ownership with a bank trust, known as a Fideicomiso.

The "Fideicomiso" Trust

Any foreigner or Mexican National can establish a Fideicomiso (the equivalent of an American beneficial trust) through a Mexican bank to purchase real estate anywhere in Mexico, including the Restricted Zone. For practical reasons, even in unrestricted zones, many foreigners and Mexican nationals prefer to hold their property under a Fideicomiso.

To do so, the buyer requests a Mexican bank of his choice to act as a trustee on his behalf. The bank, as a matter of normal course, obtains the permit from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to acquire the chosen property in trust.

The Fideicomiso can be established for a maximum term of 50 years and can be automatically renewed for another 50-year period. During these periods you have the right to transfer the title to any other party, including a member of your family.The bank becomes the legal owner of the property for the exclusive use of the buyer/beneficiary, who has all the benefits of a direct owner, including the possibility of leasing or transferring his rights to the property to a third party.

The trustee is responsible to the buyer/beneficiary to ensure precise fulfillment of the trust, according to Mexican law, assuming full technical, legal and administrative supervision in order to protect the interests of the buyer/beneficiary. Fideicomisos are not held by the trustee as an asset of the bank.

Another alternative is to purchase non-residential property through a Mexican corporation, which under certain conditions can be 100% foreign-owned, with a provision in its by-laws that the foreigners accept being subject to Mexican laws and agree not to invoke the laws of their own country. Also, they agree that the real estate acquired be registered with the Foreign Affairs Ministry and be used for non-residential activities. In other words, under these conditions foreigners can directly acquire properties destined for tourist, commercial and industrial use.

The Real Estate Industry

The real estate industry in Mexico is similar in many ways to that of the United States, which is probably the most advanced in the world. It is developing quickly, taking advantage of today's technology; however, it seems to be paralleling the system as it exists in the US.

Licensing

The Associación Mexicana de Profesionales Inmobiliarios (Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals), or AMPI, is a reputable national professional real estate organization with many chapters throughout Mexico. This organization is similar to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in the US, and in fact has a joint venture with the NAR, such that AMPI membership automatically confers membership in the NAR, as well. In the Vallarta area, there are three AMPI chapters, AMPI Vallarta, AMPI Riviera Nayarita and AMPI Compostela. At this time, there are no government license laws regulating real estate brokerage and sales in Mexico. Anybody can, in effect, offer properties for sale. Therefore, caution should be taken to select an established and reputable real estate company. A potential buyer may want to have a look at www.mlsvallarta.com, which lists most of the real estate agencies in the region, as well as providing access the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

Financing

Historically, due to lack of capital markets and high Mexican interest rates, most transactions were made in cash. That is changing rapidly, however, and many local and foreign banks are now offering financing options. Loan terms can vary significantly, so it pays to shop around a bit. There are a few mortgage brokers in Puerto Vallarta who can explain in full the terms and conditions, and pre-approve you to determine how much financing you could obtain.

Multiple Listing Service (MLS)

MLSVallarta has been providing MLS service to real estate agencies, developers and the public since 1989. It was the first and is currently the longest running MLS in Mexico. As well, the real estate association, AMPI, has an MLS service that’s available at www.vallartanayaritmls.com.

Escrow, Title Insurance and Home Insurance

It is recommended to use an escrow account for real estate transactions. There are a few companies available that provide this service. They also offer title insurance, which is relatively new to Mexico. Many insurance companies provide full home coverage. Your broker can recommend some good options.

Purchase-Sale

Most real estate transactions are "opened" after a written purchase offer is accepted by the seller and when a purchase-sale agreement (promissory contract) is signed by both parties. A deposit is required by the broker to transmit the offer to the seller. (If the transaction is being conducted directly with the seller, it is highly recommended that a real estate broker or lawyer be consulted before signing any papers or handing over any money). It is common practice to deliver to the seller, as an advance payment, the equivalent of 10-30% (including the initial deposit) of the total price upon signing the purchase-sale agreement, which should contain a penalty clause applicable in case there is a breach of contract by any of the parties. Normally, when signing the escritura (the official deed, which needs to be certified by a Public Notary) the balance is paid and the property is delivered. This should not take more than 45 days. It is recommended that an escrow account be used for all real estate transactions.

The Notary Public

A Public Notary is a government-appointed lawyer who processes and certifies all real estate transactions, including the drawing and review of all real estate closing documents, thus ensuring their proper transfer. Furthermore, all powers of attorney, the formation of corporations, wills, official witnessing, etc. are handled and duly registered through the office of the Public Notary, who is responsible to the government for the collection of all taxes involved. In connection with real estate transactions, the Public Notary, upon request, receives the following official documents, which are required by law for any transfer:

A non-lien certificate from the public property registry, based on a complete title search;

A statement from the treasury or municipality regarding property assessments, water bills and other pertinent taxes that might be due;

An appraisal of the property for tax purposes.

Closing Costs

It is common practice that the buyer pays the transfer of acquisition tax and all other closing costs, including the Notary's fees and expenses, while the seller pays his capital gains tax and the broker's commission.

Previously, the real estate transfer tax was 2% nationally. But in 1996, the law changed, giving individual states the right to set this tax level. The range now varies from 1-4% of the tax appraisal value, which is generally less than the sales value.

The rest of the closing costs, which exclude the transfer cost mentioned above, vary from 3-5% or more of the appraised tax value, depending on the particular state. These percentages are applied to the highest value of the following:

The amount for which the property is sold

The value of the official tax appraisal

The value designated by the property assessment authorities

Cost of the Fideicomiso

Based on the present tariff, the bank charges the person desiring the Fideicomiso an initial fee ($400-500 USD) for drawing up the agreement and establishing the trust, plus a percentage based on the value of the property. In addition, the bank charges an annual fee to cover its services as a trustee.

Real Estate Broker's Commission

Real estate companies charge a commission (plus tax), calculated on the sale price of the property, which usually runs between 6-8%.

Capital Gains Tax

The laws regarding capital gains taxes in Mexico seem to change every year. To obtain the latest information available, check out this article by local Mexican lawyer David Connell, who keeps it regularly up-to-date.

[thebleedingman-blog1]

Have a Buyer's Agent When Purchasing Real Estate In Mexico

So , you've reached a point in your life where you think that you've discovered a little about business, finance, contract negotiating, real estate, etc . and have at least a layman's knowledge of law pertaining to each one. Being that savvy, you might also be aware of the incredible golden age locations and values south of the border; furthermore, you would possibly even be considering Mexico as your retirement destination. If you're, you might as well forget everything you've learned and get away from your law degree at home! Mexico, as beautiful because is, has a somewhat different way of doing business and a completely different set of laws. Additionally , all legal transactions, including properties transactions, are done in Spanish. Therefore , for those of you specifically considering locations in Mexico as possible retirement destinations, the next information should give you some insight as to how the Mexican real estate industry works, list some of the possible pitfalls, and quite a few importantly, give you the guidance required to assure a pleasant and reliable experience. In 1984, we made our first realty purchase in Puerto Vallarta; a condominium in Mismaloya, about seven miles south of town. Our subsequently purchase, two years later, was the adjacent condo. One year later, we removed the wall between the two condo rentals and remodeled them into one very spacious two to three bedroom condo. For thirteen years, while still in the Houston, we thoroughly enjoyed visiting Vallarta two or three conditions a year. At some time after the purchases of the two condos, we all noticed that our original escrituras (legal property documentation the same as a title or deed that is held in a fidecomiso or perhaps bank trust) showed the property values to be about 30 % of what we actually paid for them. When we inquired around the discrepancy, we were told that the lower values happen to be used in order to reduce our annual property taxes. The software wasn't until many years later, when we decided to sell the actual condo, that we learned that capital gains taxes were expected on the huge difference between the selling price and the documented purchase price. Ouch, we owed substantial taxes on a paper gain; once in fact , there was very little real gain! We then found that the condo developer entered the extremely low revenues prices on all the escrituras in the condo complex to evade paying substantial capital gains taxes. As we subsequently learned, the developer could have entered the selling price, any appraised value, his cost of construction, or just with regards to anything imaginable into the escritura, and we, being the particular naïve Americans that we were, were at his whim! Upon the sale of the condo, we bought an attractive new mountainside villa with a panoramic view of Banderas Bay, El Centro, and the Sierra Madres. We discovered the new villa advertised in one of the local magazines and even asked our realtor friend to show us the property. The person showed us what seemed to be every property in town, prior to reluctantly taking us to see the villa in the magazine. Some time after buying the villa, we learned that our real estate agent friend received only 10% of the commission on the selling because that was all the listing agent was willing to spend. The listing agent ran the ad in the newspaper and didn't feel that an agent representing a buyer was basically necessary in order to sell this beautiful new villa. Therefore , our agent spent a couple days showing us merely properties listed by his agency before caving within our demands and taking us to the villa of our dreams; one that we have thoroughly enjoyed for more than a decades. These experiences revealed the tip of the real estate iceberg not to mention after living in Vallarta for ten years, we've finally gotten to expose the entire iceberg and share some of the information below. To begin with, there are no licensed real estate brokers or providers in Puerto Vallarta! In fact , there is no mandatory licensing just for real estate agents in all of Mexico because the Federal legislation technique has yet to accomplish it and therefore such legislation continues in limbo. In Puerto Vallarta, where there are well over 80 real estate agencies, there are probably more than 500 real estate agents with minimal qualifications. With the booming real estate market and market that exists today, it's quite obvious why we've got such a diverse group of agents and brokers in Vallarta. In order to have some degree of continuity from agent to realtor, a voluntary association for real estate personnel exists in a variety of areas of Mexico. The Asociacion Mexicana de Profesionales Inmobiliarios A. C., known as AMPI, is quite active in Vallarta with the membership of approximately 50 of the 80 real estate providers in Vallarta. Although membership in AMPI is not imperative and has no bearing on the capabilities of the agents addressing the buyers or sellers, it is considered to be the standard bearer for listing agents in the area. A second real estate association, primarily consisting of Mexican agencies based in the Vallarta area, will be Asociacion de Profesionales Inmobiliarios de Vallarta A. H., known as APIVAC. These associations schedule periodic conferences, execute educational programs, and hold various meetings where individuals attempt to keep their members and the public current regarding activities in the area as well as changes in the Mexican law as it pertains to real estate. They have codes of ethics and they do try to establish uniform sets of operating policies and steps, some of which are in writing, others understood but not documented. Individuals bring real estate personnel together where their members of your accord agree to abide by their organizations´ statutes and codes in ethics while attempting to operate with some degree of continuity and professionalism. For sure, these associations are better than outright still not to be confused with associations such as the Countrywide Association of Realtors or NAR in the US. Dual agent disclosure, designated agency, full disclosure, confidentiality, imputed understanding and notice, implied knowledge, fiduciary duty, loyalty, and also vicarious liability are foreign concepts to the majority of real estate professionals in Mexico. Consequently, misleading or inaccurate statements sometimes made by many of the agents can put both the buyer plus seller in intolerable predicaments in Mexico. Although AMPI and NAR do have a working relationship, one example belonging to the differences between AMPI and NAR is that NAR provides its member agencies with standard statewide list of forms, pre-qualification forms, escrow account and earnest dollars forms, standard purchase agreement forms, letters of motive, etc . In Vallarta, there are no such forms made available from AMPI or APIVAC. Each real estate agency has its own listing form or uses a form provided by an outside for your case owned publisher, which clearly depicts the listing professional as receiving 100% of the commission upon sale from the property. Also, NAR has written and enforceable specifications regarding the handling of commissions and the sharing of fees between the selling and buying agents. Although there are guidelines in Mexico for real estate commissions, they are still flexible, and to some degree negotiable with the seller. The listing agent can then settle commission sharing with the buyer's agent. All other forms alter from agent to agent and are not necessarily written in the finest interest of the buyer. Also, most forms and agreements for North Americans are in English; however the Spanish version will be only document that has any legal standing in South america. Therefore , regardless of what you read in English, a Simple spanish speaking attorney should always represent you along with your agent. A second major difference between the Mexican based associations and NAR has to do with the Multiple Listing Service or MLS. In the States, the LOCAL MLS is controlled and monitored by NAR and is for sale to all NAR agents. In certain Mexican cities, including Vallarta, there is an MLS; however it is not controlled by AMPI or APIVAC. Instead, it is privately owned and run by a local publisher and is available for property searching towards the public at no charge. AMPI members are able to list their real estate on the Vallarta MLS, with the general public as well as the other AMPI and APIVAC members having access to the listings. Once you figure out the inner workings of the real estate industry in PV, you need to learn a little about Mexican real estate law. It is quite complex regarding trusts, escrows, mortgages, treatment regarding taxes, etc . and is often open to interpretation by a talk about appointed attorney, known as a notario. A small percentage of the realty in Vallarta have a fair understanding of Mexican law when it comes to real estate transactions; however the vast majority of them are sorely short of this field. Even with little or no knowledge of the law, they will be stressed to advise you, right or wrong; therefore , the best legal requirement to follow is caveat emptor, or buyer beware! Due to its many pitfalls that a buyer can encounter while selecting real estate in PV, we learned over twenty years gone that it is wise to interview realtors with scrutiny, keeping in mind that a lot all will be promoting their own listings first and appointment your needs second. It's just human nature and with almost no control in Mexico, it's pretty much assured. Also, for the reason that almost 100% of them have listing agreements with the owners, they are legally bound to act in the best interest of your sellers, and not necessarily in the buyer's best interest. Because buyer usually has no contractual agreement with the realtor, he'll almost certainly in all probability get the "short end of the stick" in this clash of interest. Of all places, in Mexico you should find an agent that is 100% dedicated to helping you find the property who meets your needs and satisfies your requirements; preferably, a contractual agreement with an agent with no listings, no axe for you to grind, no ulterior motive, and is exclusively representing individuals and their best interests. A true buyer´s agent in SUN should have no property listings, should have complete access to typically the Vallarta MLS, should know the areas and growth fads in and around Vallarta, should be able to professionally negotiate on the buyer's account, should have a decent understanding of Mexican real estate law, should have an operating relationship with the local notarios, real estate attorneys, escrow as well as title agents, mortgage bankers, insurance agents, inspectors, appraisers, and lastly, your representative must have a thorough working knowledge of any nearby real estate industry and understand the idiosyncrasies associated with the software. Buying your dream home or condo in Vallarta should be one of your best experiences, however without due diligence, it can be a nightmare. Obtaining an exclusive buyer´s agent with 100% resolve to you is a prerequisite for assuring a pleasant beginning of this retirement in Paradise.

[mwcowan]

Mark & Georgia’s Big Trip

Chapter Seven – Miscellaneous Ramblings II

Another busy week, but that’s become the norm. At least this week we saw good progress towards getting everything together that we’ve been trying to get together. But not much of a theme so just some thoughts on the important events of the week.

Caretakers

The biggest milestone this week was that we selected and hired our housekeeper and caretaker. Plus their two boys – we will soon have a new family in our home, and we’re very excited. You’ll soon meet Ranny and Pina, and their boys Prince Denver and Ethan, who will take up residence in our caretaker’s apartment.

Ranny (pronounced “Ronny” – remember that the vowels AEIOU are pronounced here, without exception, Ah, Eh, Ee, Oh, Oo) for the previous seven years has worked as a groundskeeper for Kawayan Cove so he comes with excellent gardening and tree maintenance chops. Pina has been a homemaker, is a great cleaner and a good cook; Georgia says she’s a good student and will quickly learn our favorite dishes. She already knows that I like fresh fruit every morning – half the battle’s won already! Prince Denver (8 yrs) and Ethan (4 yrs) are just normal boys, though very polite. I think it’s going to be fun having them around.

Capiz

Capiz is both a province in the Philippines, on Panay Island, as well as an oyster from the area known for its special shell. A capiz oyster is on the left, the harvested and cleaned shell on the right. One shell of the oyster is flat, growing to 3-5 inches in diameter, and importantly, translucent.

You find all sorts of items here made from capiz – Christmas ornaments, outdoor lights, ashtrays, you name it. When we lived in the Bay Area, Georgia always said you could tell a Filipino’s house because of the capiz lights in the trees. Harvesting and producing craft items from the shells is today the principal livelihood of the people of Capiz. Historically, capiz is important in Philippines heritage and culture, one that’s given away by the Capiz oyster’s Western name: windowpane oyster. For thousands of years the shell served as the “glass” in Filipino windows; many older homes still feature these windows today.

So why this story about capiz? On this week’s trip to Manila, we were wandering around a mall and walked into an antique store. Stacked against the back wall we found a number of dusty old capiz windows. The shop owner had no hard information about their provenance but said they were likely from the 1800’s. They looked it; the Narra and Molave wood was weathered but the craftsmanship was still evident and not of this century. No nails or screws, the window frames are joined with hand-made mortise and tenons, held with wooden pegs. The capiz was dirty, but almost 100% intact – it looks fragile but is actually pretty sturdy stuff. We’re not sure yet what we’ll do with them, but we now have three panels. After an afternoon spent cleaning them we have a treasure we’ll proudly display.

Calamansi

I don’t think Calamansi has been featured in my Strange Fruit of the Day series; it’s really not that strange anyway. Calamansi is the citrus fruit of the Philippines. About ¾ to one inch in size, they look a lot like a key lime but aren’t limes. The insides and juice are orange, but they’re not oranges. They aren’t lemons either, they’re just Calamansi. They flavor many Filipino dishes: you’ll typically squeeze one onto your Pancit before eating, or onto your grilled fish, and they’re often an ingredient in the dipping sauces served with many dishes.

There are no limes here, so I had a dilemma: how to make a proper Gin and Tonic. Finding decent gin was easy (S&R/Costco), and after searching a few stores I found tonic water. But no limes. Calamansi to the rescue! I’m now able to enjoy my favorite summer cocktail. And it’s always summer here! Cheers!

The Massage Table

Massage is a way of life in the Philippines. Go to almost any beach and there will be massage tents set up, in the city there are plenty of establishments, or just call for home service. My only complaint, actually my neck’s complaint, is that the traditional Filipino massage is performed on a flat bed, not a massage table. You’ll sometimes find a real massage table but it’s rare. Fast forward to our weekly trip to S&R, and there it was! My neck had a sudden seizure as I tried to walk past, so into the cart it went! We set it up on the “meditation deck” and brought in a masseuse that Hervé and Lett turned us on to. She’s expensive, about $12 an hour, but good. Very good. Ahhhhhhhh, heaven!

Friends with Furniture

Our friends from Manila, Noel and Michelle Tanada, who have been mentioned before in my blogs (they’re the members at the Balesin Island Club with whom we’ve had some memorable trips) visited us yesterday. I don’t think I’ve ever said much about them. Michelle is a former local TV star/singer; after that career a serial entrepreneur, starting and running businesses in the advertising field. Noel was originally headed for a career in law, but left that world for his art, which encompasses traditional forms such as painting and sculpture, but his real passion lies with interior design and furniture design. In all they do they only use native and sustainable materials, or recycled materials, and always local labor. You can learn more and view some of their products at www.ecohomeart.com. They are also both active environmentalists, deeply involved with coral rehabilitation (www.coralmovement.org). This shot is with them at Balesin Island last year.

Today’s visit was more than a social call as they delivered a van full of furniture, some of the last items for our living room. We’d asked Noel to create some custom bar chairs, a breakfast table and chairs, and a credenza. Since we live in Kawayan Cove he chose a bamboo theme (kawayan is the Tagalog word for bamboo). He also brought a special floor lamp for us. All beautiful and unique pieces we’re proud to have.

House Tour

Finally all the major furniture is here and the house is feeling pretty livable (though we did fine with just a plastic card table and a mattress on the floor for the first 2 weeks…). So, I’ll wrap this up with a photo tour of our newly furnished rooms.

First up is the living room. The coffee and end tables from the acacia slab have arrived, we’re very happy with them and like the way they go with the sofa and love seat. The turtle on the coffee table is from Puerto Vallarta and has a special connection with Kawayan Cove – every fall Olive Ridley sea turtles arrive at Kawayan Cove to lay their eggs.

These are two of the barstools Noel designed for us. Using 100% native and sustainable materials, the backs feature split bamboo and the upholstery is hand-woven Tikog grass from Leyte. Besides a warm an inviting look, Tikog is durable and has a very nice, soft feel. It’s woven into many items here, historically the Banig which is the traditional Filipno sleeping mat.

Also in the same style and materials are this breakfast table and chairs. Noel feels the table design is sexy, resembling a woman’s curves. You decide!

One of Noel’s more creative pieces is this dramatic floor lamp, reflected in our corner windows. The lamp is made of water hyacinth reeds. Beyond being a sustainable material, the use of water hyacinth has an additional benefit as it’s a nuisance here, growing quickly and clogging rivers and harbors.

New in our master bedroom is this computer desk, made of mahogany from our design by Boyet, one of the construction foremen for our contractor. Boyet also made all of the cabinets in the house.

Our small guest bedroom, the one with the great view, has two new side tables of acacia, which we picked up pre-made at the same place where we got our slab. Note the baskets on the wall, which made their way here from the White Sulphur Springs Ranch rummage sale!

Last up is our second guest bedroom. In trade for the lack of a view you get a larger room, with a sofa and coffee table, which is the final piece of our acacia slab. Any of you who visited the Mokawk Community Resource Center last fall will recognize two paintings by Tyler Jacobsen, and a woven wall hanging by Salli Wise. Sorry the bed’s not made, we’ll make sure that’s done before you arrive!

[ronmorganmexico-blog]

Get Assistance On Real Estate Dealings With Ron Morgan

Ron Morgan is a full-service real estate company. With offices in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s “Romantic Zone”, we are in a prime position to assist both buyers and sellers. Whether you are looking to buy your dream property, starting a business here, or looking to list your home or business for sale or rent, our professional and knowledgeable team will assist you with every detail needed to achieve your real estate goals in the greater Bay of Banderas area.