Traffic also heats up, with continued construction on the bridges over the Pitillal River and El Salado. Three lone “defended” parota trees stand guard in Plaza Lázaro Cárdenas, surrounded by the construction of the third city parking lot, now to include a botanical garden in its design.
National elections and other international incidents produce a minor slow-down in the local market, allowing a breather for brokers and real estate agents in the mad scramble to close earlier sales while preparing for the upcoming season. All signs indicate the continuation of a fantastic year. Local wisdom agrees: Take a break while you can; this is probably it until next year. Forget the phrase “low season,” which no longer seems to have relevance in Banderas Bay.
Some interesting developments this past month include the first phase of awarding titles for properties in traditionally ejido Boca de Tomatlán. In a project that began in 1970, the current president of the ejido, Enrique Pérez, with the technical assistance of his brother, architect Salvador “Cachi” Pérez, granted about 80 titles in this phase. With title in hand, each of the landholders can choose to sell, build, invest or combine interests with other titleholders. Boca de Tomatlán is actually located in two separate municipalities, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo Corrientes, with about 50 families living on the south side of the river that passes through town.
In an interview, Enrique Pérez explained the importance of creating an urban zone to build the infrastructure of community services. Prime among them are garbage collection, a proper pier for departures to the outlying towns of Quimixto, Yelapa, Majahuitas and others, as well as further investments in the community such as water, telephone service and electricity. A mention was made of the water treatment plant, already completed but with no date set for operation. Prior to regularization of the land, normal sales were not possible without ejido involvement. Now the transaction can be made between private parties.
Costs accrued for each property will be based on the value and size of the land, with three topographical zone considerations: hillside, riverfront and beachfront. Even though a purchase price was paid for the original procedure, this current fee will be based on the actual regularization process, a separate procedure from sales or exchanges. Additionally, re-issuing the paperwork through a notario will carry its own costs. For questions about the process, contact Aurelia Ureña González, procuraduría agraria, at (322) 224-8940 or Dennis Owen of Asociación Costa Platino A.C. at (322) 228-0675.
This month I met with some of Puerto Vallarta’s key real estate brokers to allow them to present one of their favorite properties for sale. Tere Kimball of Prudential California Realty Vallarta Division chose the site for The Enclave in the hills of Amapas just south of town. This Michael Graves & Associates-designed project will consist of 60 units with two and three bedrooms, beginning at 261 m2. We were joined onsite by Nicole Martin, Christine Chin and Regis Gaunet, as well as Monroe Townsend, one of the developers of the project. Standing in a clearing overlooking Banderas Bay with the Los Arcos rock formations to the south and the city to the north, plans were discussed for the construction of a viewing tower. In addition, the completed project will include a bird-watching tower and hiking trails into the beautiful jungle of parota, amapas and other native woods. Pre-construction prices start at $715,000 USD.
Carl Timothy of Timothy Fuller & Associates chose the penthouse of Vista Romantica in Amapas, a finished building with easy access just up from the main highway. The contemporary Mexican design allows for modern living with all the conveniences, including a private swimming pool, family den area with fireplace, and covered gated parking with elevator access right into the apartment. On the balcony, the crown of Guadalupe Church seems almost within reach, the entire bay sweeping along the horizon. The penthouse boasts three bedrooms and 3.5 baths, its two floors dramatically decorated in soothing colors and bright accents. Did I mention the fireplace? While we get our rain in the summer, you’ll appreciate the cozy fireplace on a chilly winter evening. This ultra-livable space is 417 m2, priced at $1,750,000 USD.
Cochran Real Estate’s Harriet Murray and assistant Vanessa López Juárez chose Horizon 307, a completely decorated and furnished two-bedroom, two-bath apartment with an uninterrupted terrace fronting the sweeping view of Banderas Bay, with easy access from the highway. Decorated in subdued colors by Jeffrey Hill, the palette includes cocoa, ocher and other earth tones, with Mexican design elements contributing an unusual flair. The large L-shaped living area gives the classic dining room a view of the bay as well. The owners, based in Santa Fe, liked Horizon so much that they bought a second place in the same building, which will be their primary residence. Priced at $565,000 USD.
The only open house held this month was hosted by William Michael Dryson of Timothy Fuller & Associates at Villa Cascada, a lovely four-bedroom, 5.5 bath, multi-level home with a breathtaking view of the bay and city. Designed by architect René Loranca, its 726-m2 lot sits on a quiet cul-de-sac on the upper hillside. Details include marble baths, vaulted ceilings, a cupola, French doors and terraces that spill out onto the pool area below, with a staff apartment nearby as well as a spacious laundry room. Listed at $1,200,000 USD.
And finally, local real estate agents talked about the interesting certification course offered by AMPI Vallarta-Nayarit and sponsored by Tere Kimball of Prudential Realty. While the course is focused on real estate skills, ethical standards and marketing knowledge, it is the first step in getting federal certification within the real estate industry, an evaluation workshop leading toward a certificate to prove at least minimum knowledge and expertise.
