5 Reasons Why Puerto Vallarta Is a Great Place to Retire
Puerto Vallarta is a warm place to retire, and Rivera Cuale is the perfect location to create your own tropical paradise. If it gets too hot, there are no worries. You can cool off with a dip in the pool, enjoy the cool breezes from your terrace, or just relax indoors, under the air conditioner. At Rivera Cuale you have it all. Spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, the soothing roar of the Cuale River at your doorstep, and palm tree filled tropical mountains. Ahhh…
Aside from being a sunny, tropical haven, the cost of living is substantially lower here than in the U.S. and Canada! And, if that’s not enough, here are several more reasons that might tempt a permanent move, or a second home in Puerto Vallarta:
5. Puerto Vallarta will host the sailing, triathlon, beach volleyball, and open water swimming competitions for the 2011 Pan American Games. Don’t miss the excitement!
4. The Mexican government is spending billions of dollars on infrastructure and tourist development throughout the country. Improvements in Puerto Vallarta include: construction of a new beach volleyball stadium; modernization of the international airport; expansion of the maritime terminal which now accommodates three, full sized cruise ships; creation of bridges and tunnels to allow better access and less congestion on our local roads; a super-highway is under construction that will connect north and south; and Puerto Vallarta has the best water treatment facility in Latin America.
3. Mexico is experiencing a new group of expats. A high percentage of parents with school-aged children are leaving the United States and moving to Mexico, particularly Puerto Vallarta. The American School of Puerto Vallarta (for students in kindergarten through Grade 12) is the only accredited school on the western coast of Mexico. This bilingual academy educates Mexican children, as well as the growing number of young foreigners who live in Mexico. So, if you once thought that you would have to postpone your plans to retire until the kids have graduated from high school, think again.
2. Puerto Vallarta has state of the art hospitals, and private practices. It is not difficult to find English speaking doctors who specialize in all sciences including: dentistry; cosmetic surgery; heart disease; various forms of cancer; etc. In addition, Puerto Vallarta is poised for the growing number of dependent elderly. There are a growing number of bilingual hospices in and around Vallarta.
1. Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta is a safe investment. Mexico has a high percentage of home ownership. However, only 6% of Mexican home owners carry a mortgage, as compared to 65% of Americans and Canadians. The real estate collapse of 2007 was caused in part by homeowners north of the Mexican border borrowing more than they could afford to repay. In Mexico, since the majority of the population own their homes outright, foreclosure is rare. As such, the cost of your purchase is fair, and the value is likely to grow steadily.
I am a licensed real estate broker from California with over ten years of personal investment experience throughout the United States, the southern coast of Spain, and Puerto Vallarta. I encourage you to schedule an appointment with me to see for yourself why Rivera Cuale would make an excellent addition to your real estate portfolio.
deanna@riveracuale.com
044 322 118 43 90 (local cell)
(322) 223 37 70 (local office)
(888) 226-0563 (toll free from USA/Canada)
Malecon Sculpture Tour
On the evening of Tuesday, June 29th, I left the condos at Rivera Cuale and walked down to the Malecon, as I had done many evenings before. This time was different though; this time I had a mission. I was on my way to finally take a dedicated look at the many beautiful sculptures there. I had read that a new organization in town, Learn Vallarta, was taking over the Malecon sculpture tour because the local art gallery that was doing them previously had stopped for the summer season. Having lived here for almost two years now, I was actually a little ashamed of myself for not having gone on one of these free tours sooner, so I decided it was time to take advantage of the opportunity! Also, I am not much of an art connoisseur, being pretty much a literal sort of personality. I figured having a knowledgeable guide to interpret the less literal sculptures for me would enhance the experience and garner me a new appreciation for the bronze figures I had walked past uncountable times before.
A group of about 15 of us set off from the first sculpture by the Rosita Hotel, The Millennium, at 6:30pm. It was a little overcast, but as long as it didn’t start pouring I didn’t mind, and besides, it was a nice reprieve from the blazing sun.
We were told that the inspiration behind many of the sculptures is the sea, and evolution, and that we would visit 13 sculptures along the Malecon. Here they are:
1. The Millenium, Mathis Lídice, 2001
2. The Nostalgia, Ramiz Barquet, 1984
3. Nature as Mother, Tapatio Adrian Reynoso, 1999
4. The Subtle Stone Eater, Jonas Gutiérrez, 2006
5. The Rotunda of the Sea, Alejandro Colunga, 1997
6. In Search of Reason, Sergio Bustamante, 1990 (or 1999?)
7. The Seahorse, Rafel Zamarripa, 1976
8. Triton and the Nereid, Carlos Esprino, 1990
9. The Friendship Fountain, James “Bud” Bottoms, 1987
10. Angel of Hope and Messenger of Peace, Hector Manuel Montes García, 2008
11. Dancers of Vallarta, Jim Demetro, 2006
12. Standing on End, Maritza Vazquez (“Blu”), 2007
13. Patron Saint of Cooks, Ramiz Barquet, 2008
If you’ve been to Puerto Vallarta, probably you’ve seen some or all of those. While they are all interesting and beautiful, I will share with you some of the ones that really made an impression on me, and the photos I took.
The Nostalgia – This is probably one of the most well-known of the Malecon sculptures, and it symbolizes the sculptor’s own love story between him and his wife, painter Nelly Barquet. As youngsters, 
the two planned to marry, but their parents did not approve and sent them away to different schools. 27 years later, after each having had their own families and marriages, they ran into each other in a Mexico City flower shop. They started to spend time together and sit on the Malecon to enjoy the sunsets, on the very spot where the The Nostalgia now stands. It was not long before Ramiz proposed marriage, and the two have been together for many years now. They live right here in Puerto Vallarta. I actually met them once, when I was new to the city, and had no idea then of their touching story.
The Rotunda of the Sea – This is a fantastical collection of sculptures that stir up the s
enses. The figures are positioned to form a rotunda, and they represent a transformation from the sea to human life. Originally there were 16 pieces, but over time, through weathering, a hurricane and vandalism, there are now only 7. The figures are really neat – you can actually sit in their bronze laps, and many people do, which explains the sculptures’ worn, shiny surfaces. If you look closely, you will see that the bench piece, which many unassuming passerby perch on, has eyes and ears! So watch what you say! Sadly, I wasn’t able to get a great photo of The Rotunda of the Sea for you because the tour was moving ahead without me.
In Search of Reason – This surrealistic sculpture is another highly recognizable one. Inspired by an English philosopher, it depicts figures on their quest for reason, or internal harmony, as well as the artist’s own. Two figures are perched on the 60’ high ladder, a
nd one figure stands at the base, arms outspread. While some interpret the figure on the ground to be the mother calling to her children, maybe to be careful or to come down from their ascent, I prefer to think that this figure is wishing the others well on their journey, perhaps singing in exaltation.
Something of interest is that this bottom figure was swept away by Hurricane Kenna in 2002 and ended up in the dump. Some enterprising youths found it, cleaned it up and tried to sell it. However (and fortunately!), it was recognized and reinstalled on the Malecon in its rightful place.
Triton and the Nereid – This piece was commissioned by the government and is a representation of the sea and human form at the same time. 
Triton is the son and herald of the Greek god of the sea, Poseidon, and is seen here reaching out to a Nereid, a Greek sea nymph. The Nereids are believed to have the gift of prophesy.
There was a time that now seems like a lifetime ago, where I took a couple of elective courses in university that covered Greek mythology. Interesting stuff…although keeping everyone’s name straight was always a challenge!
The Friendship Fountain – Hard to believe, but this is the only sculpture on the Malecon that has a fountain. It was created by an American sculptor as a gift from Santa Barbara, CA to Puerto Vallarta, its sister city. The fountain has three dolphins, to represent the two cities and their uniting friendship.
Vallarta Dancers – This sculpture doesn’t require much interpretation and made sense to me right away – it’s two people dancing! The base of the sculpture says that it was inspired by “youthful energy, flowing movement, colorful costumes of the talented Xiutla dancers and their instructor
and choreographer Prof. Enrique Barrios Limon.” I’ve seen some of these dance performances around Vallarta, and I can vouch for that description. The sculptor is from the state of Washington.
There are many other sculptures around Puerto Vallarta. Probably the largest is the massive 12 ton bronze whale in the entrance to Marina Vallarta. Its tremendous weight is carried on just one flipper! There is an intriguing sculpture of film director John Huston, who was here in 1963 shooting Night of the Iguana, on the Isla Cuale. There are other sculptures around Old Town as well. But I won’t tell you about them – I’ll leave it to you to enjoy the delight of coming upon them yourself.
Article and Photos by Leanne Smith
I welcome your questions and comments!
Rivera Cuale: Unique Investment Opportunity
Since 1998, Puerto Vallarta has experienced steady expansion of resort hotels and residential developments. Today, the core of Puerto Vallarta is virtually built out. Not much buildable land remains, which limits expansion of residential construction. One of the reasons that the Mexican government is spending billions of dollars on infrastructure north of Puerto Vallarta is to generate growth along the coast.
New growth is concentrated in the northern part of the Bay of Banderas. However, the northern zone is considered, by some, to be too far from the excitement and old town charm of downtown Puerto Vallarta. With the reduction of inventory close to the action, sales prices for houses and condominiums are increasing at a consistent rate.
Given these dynamics, Rivera Cuale offers a unique investment opportunity because it is one of the newest projects south of the Bay, with room to expand. Rivera Cuale is walking distance to the beach, and only blocks from markets and fine dining. While Rivera Cuale offers the excitement of downtown, it equally serves as a tranquil, riverfront oasis. Above all, Rivera Cuale is affordable in relation to its superior quality and desirable location.
Puerto Vallarta’s Strong Rental Market
If you are purchasing at Rivera Cuale for investment purposes, you are probably familiar with the popularity of Puerto Vallarta as a vacation destination. Vallarta has become so popular in recent years that young couples are now bringing their children, and eco-enthusiasts have found a new location to explore. But let’s not forget that Puerto Vallarta is also home to many working and retired expatriates. Rivera Cuale is an excellent location to rent to families, environmental enthusiasts, and those living in Vallarta year round.
Examples of Rental Rates Expected at Rivera Cuale (in USD)**
–Weekly, High Season (typically from November – April)
One-bedroom: $850
Two-bedroom: $1,750
Three-bedroom: $2,050
–Weekly, Low Season (typically from May – October)
One-bedroom: $650
Two-bedroom: $1,050
Three-bedroom: $1,350
–Monthly Lease of 6 to 12 Months
One-bedroom: $650
Two-bedroom: $1,050
Three-bedroom: $1,350
**Disclaimer: These are examples of actual rents received from comparable properties in 2009. While rates for 2010 have risen, unforeseen market fluctuations could strengthen or weaken the rental market.
Lock It Off
Rivera Cuale’s two-bedroom + den (Type B) floor plan offers a unique design feature that allows an owner to “lock-off” one half of the unit for rental purposes, while maintaining access to the second half of the unit. The second half then becomes another rental, or is used exclusively by the owner.
This is not only a smart option for pure investors, but also for part-time owners who do not want to limit their vacations due to rental availability. In addition, this is an option that can be implemented in the future, to accommodate a lifestyle change, like a sudden move out of the area. Likewise, it is just as easy to remove the “lock-off” feature.
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Click here to view the floor plan.
No Real Estate Bubble Here
In simple terms, the real estate bubble and subsequent price corrections experienced in the United States were caused by overpaying for property, and the inability to re-pay loans. In contrast, Mexicans 
have a long standing history of cash real estate purchases. While mortgages are becoming increasingly more popular in Mexico, lenders require a 30% – 50% down payment. With such strict terms, it is unlikely that buyers will overpay, and there is little chance that mortgage holders will default. As such, the value of your investment is safe, and likely to grow at a steady rate.
Need a Nudge?
If Rivera Cuale is on your short list of desired properties to own, yet you need a little more convincing, treat yourself to two nights in our guest suite through the “Fly, Stay & Buy” program. If you are short on time, enjoy a “Sunset Evening” with wine and cheese on the terrace of our model unit.
Personalized Assistance
I am a licensed real estate broker from California with over ten years of personal investment experience throughout the United States, the Southern Coast of Spain, and Puerto Vallarta. For customized assistance, please contact deanna@riveracuale.com.
Intro to Financing
Financing a Home at Rivera Cuale
As financing options become increasingly available, the question of how to structure your Rivera Cuale property investment becomes fundamental.
So, you have decided to purchase at Rivera Cuale – that puts you ahead of the curve, but the question is, how far? Choosing the right investment to meet both financial and lifestyle needs is only half of the equation – how you structure that investment can be the difference between your property here becoming a fortunate part of your life, or its being a part of your life’s fortune.
Foreign Nationals purchasing a Mexican property have traditionally been able to do so only with ‘cash’ – meaning that however they were able to arrange financing, from the perspective of the property – and Mexico for that matter – it was paid in full, free and clear.
There are numerous reasons for this. First, Mexican Banks had not established a uniform or accessible mortgage market, nor did they participate in secondary markets in any meaningful way. Mortgage lending has seen major structural improvement within each of the lending processes’ critical dimensions: gauging creditworthiness, backing loans and obtaining funds. Advances in accounting rules, a commitment to capital adequacy, loan classification, auditing, and risk evaluation and management procedures, which have been implemented and refined since 2005, now all meet or exceed international standards and requirements. The government has also made important advances to allow the actual property (generally an appreciating asset) as collateral, and in bankruptcy law uniformity, removing variances municipality to municipality.
The second major reason for cash being almost universal in Mexican property transactions is the requirement that each property sale be brought before a Notary Public who executes a transfer and conveyance to the new owner. This ensures title, movement of the property free and clear of any issues, and that the property transaction is correctly entered into the public register. If the seller is not cashed out, there can be no conveyance, as the seller retains title until such a time as they are paid in full. For the purposes of actually completing the operation, cash has been the least resistive method in the absence of a formal mortgaging system.
In recent years the situation has changed steadily and purposefully. A variety of mortgage products and options are now available to foreign nationals seeking to invest. From both sides of the border, U.S. and Mexican banks have begun offering mortgage products for the purchase of real estate in Mexico, recognizing the security of the purchase system, and the popularity of this investment. U.S. title and escrow companies began entering Mexico in 2004, and since that time, the real estate purchasing process began to take steps to mirror the process in the U.S., adding to the comfort of American (and also Canadian) buyers.
Once inward-looking and crisis-prone, Mexico has transformed itself into a nation that thrives on foreign investment and trade and displays a steadfast commitment to monetary and fiscal discipline. It is consistently an example to other States in crisis, and is becoming a familiar case study in economics classrooms worldwide. Mexico has been crisis-free since 1995, through two potentially turbulent presidential transitions, without experiencing significant financial difficulties—a remarkable achievement, given its economic history.
Mortgages on Mexican property investments do not simply gift someone the ability to purchase. They simply answer the ‘how’ in a positive way for those who probably could have bought two years ago or five years from now. Additionally, they make available the opportunity to approach the market for many more investors. A five hundred thousand dollar investment used to mean one had to be able to arrange $500K. But now, with a mortgage pre-approval, the purchase only requires $100K directly from the investor. The number of people able to manage the lesser amount is exponentially greater than those who are currently capable purchasers. The broader market should allow for positive growth for this sector despite the global economic downturn. The conservative lending rules and qualifications should preserve the lack of foreclosures, while simultaneously generating increases in demand.
While not without challenges, new borrowing options for those involved in the Mexican real estate market and in particular for foreigners acquiring Mexican real estate have created additional demand from new buyers now able to access leverage. Ultimately, good basic conservative lending practices will assist in creating demand for real estate, support valuation, and continue to contribute to economic expansion in Mexico. This creates a beneficial cycle of sustainable growth.
It should be clear at this point that mortgage financing in Mexico is different to that which Americans and Canadians are accustomed. The details and nuances of acquiring real estate with financing are best handled through professional services – that way these nuances can be appreciated and understood rather than dreaded. Investing is a process, and the Mexican experience is a process that is growing and maturing – a safe and interesting series of events well worth looking into.
Pertinent Information
Some of the Mortgage Benefits in Mexico
- USDollar and MXPeso loan interest is deductible on US tax returns (verify with your CPA)
- Loans available in USDollars or in fixed MXPesos
- Loan amount minimums of $50,000 MXPesos and $100,000 USDollars to no upper limit
- Up to 80% Loan to Value
- Low fixed or adjustable interest rate
- 10, 15, 20, 25 & 30 year terms
- Available to citizens of USA, Canada & Mexico and others with FM2 or FM3 visa status and history of income in Mexico.
A further benefit may be found in the combination of US and Mexican Real Estate collateral. This allows potential financing of up to 100% of your vacation home purchase in Mexico. This technique has not only the most favourable rates, but is more flexible, can include contents in the valuation, can pay off faster, and your interest payments are tax-deductible (as always, you should check your specific situation with your CPA).
USDollar Denominated Mortgage Loans for US, Canadian & Mexican Citizens
- •30-25-20-15 year fixed and adjustable rate loans available
- •30% down, rates may vary from 7.75%-8.5%
- •Loan value up to 75% of purchase price
- •Minimum Loan Amount: $100,000 USD
- •Maximum Loan Amount: $5,000,000 USD
MXPeso Loans for US & Canadian Citizens
- 20% down – 11.99% on 10, 15 and 20 Year Terms
- 30% down on construction to permanent loans
- 8.5% Fixed for 20 years
- Pre-payment penalty expires after 3 years
Qualifications
- Minimum FICO credit score 680
- Maximum Debt to Total Income Ratio 40%
Mortgages for Rivera Cuale have never been so easy! At Rivera Cuale you will find qualified agents to help you make your purchase enjoyable – and to assist you in arranging all of the pieces that you will need for financing through reputable mortgage brokers in Mexico or directly with a financial institution that offers mortgage products. For assistance please contact your sales executive or send an email to info@riveracuale.com.
Disclaimer: These materials have been prepared for informational purposes only. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of its inclusion but is not intended to be nor constitutes legal or financial advice. Before taking any action, it is recommended that you consult a reputable mortgage broker, a financial institution or/and your CPA.
Prepared by Marie Talbot
World Cup Soccer Fever
World Cup Soccer fever is upon us again! On Friday, June 11th, Mexico took on South Africa in Johannesburg in the opening game of 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa.It was an exciting game that ended in a 1-1 tie after Mexico scored a late goal in the second half. Mexico is set to play France on Thursday June 17th and it is sure to get people around here all riled up.
Here in Mexico, soccer (“futbol”) is taken very seriously and is a great source of national pride. It is a cultural phenomenon. Whether from a sports bar downtown, or from homes lining the cobblestone streets, cries of distress and of victory fly out the windows to passersby’s ears, as World Cup viewers shout out in unison with the ups and downs of the matches. Even if Mexico is not playing, they still have other favourite teams to cheer for.
I enjoy the sport. I played recreationally for a few years in Canada, in a local league. Although it is very popular where I come from, I had not anticipated the fever and passion that accompany the sport down here.
And so I asked myself, what makes soccer so popular here? What makes is so popular worldwide? Here is what I came up with.
Soccer, no matter what you call it in whichever language, is the number one sport played in every corner of the world. It is the global game. The World Cup, the biggest and most-watched sports event in the world, is soccer’s showcase event, drawing massive global attention. It is that time every four years where for one month, the world stops when the World Cup is on. What creates this phenomenon, where regular people will suddenly drop everything to be in front of the TV to watch? And I do mean everything. I was at a restaurant the other day while the opening Mexico-South Africa match was on, and upon hearing cheers from the restaurant patrons, one of the cooks came dashing out from the back, spatula still in hand, to catch the replay of what he had missed.
For hundreds of millions of people around the world, soccer is the ultimate cultural expression. It is like a universal language that everyone can understand. It unites people across regions within a country, and it unites people across countries within the world. Even those who do not regularly follow the sport are profoundly affected during World Cup, as they cheer on their nation’s team in great displays of patriotism. That team is their nation’s representation to the rest of the world.
Although this phenomenon is seen in other sports (hockey in Canada, for example), 
World Cup soccer elicits a more passionate, fervent and almost religious-like following from more fans around the planet than any other event. I surmise that it’s because it is more widely played around the world than any other sport, so a nation’s citizens take great pride in saying ‘this is our team’.
There is something else: there is a simplicity to soccer, and in that simplicity lies accessibility. With so many different positions on a team, it appeals to people who may not be the biggest, fastest, tallest, or even strongest. The rules of the game are simple. And, so importantly, the average fan has more access to playing the sport than other sports, and that in turn leads to its popularity. All that is required to play is some semblance of a ball, some sort of markers to indicate the goal posts, and an open area. In this way, soccer transcends economic barriers – even a ball made out of scraps of cloth will do. It is the sport of the common man. It is the great economic equalizer, employed by some of the sport’s all-time greats, including Pele and Maradona, to escape abject poverty.
Soccer is the world game, and during World Cup, the sport’s best players from 32 countries worldwide come together in one place for one month. And when they do, the rest of the world stops.
Written by Leanne Smith
I welcome your questions and comments!
Old Town Farmers’ Market
Without a doubt, the must do activity on a Saturday morning is a visit to the Old Town Farmers’ Market. In addition to seeing everyone you know, you will experience a bit of sensory overload as you make the circuit of all the goodies being offered.
As you enter, there is a full butcher shop set up, with every deli item you could want, from pancetta to fresh horseradish, and gourmet cuts of meat, to fabulous sandwiches. As you continue your stroll through, you can order such delights as Pad Thai or green curry chicken from a lovely Thai lady, ready to go when you are done shopping.
You can pick up organic greens for your week’s salads, high altitude coffee, exotic fruits, homemade pickles, pastas, salsas, breads, sauces, jellies, ready to bake pot pies, cheesecakes, and other desserts, and so much more. I could go on and on. The varieties are endless. It is a foodie’s dream.
You can find any number of wonderful handmade crafts, as well as bags made of recycled materials, all of which make great gifts. Many of the things you buy benefit our local charities. In addition, you can adopt a homeless animal. If you think of it, you can probably find it at the Farmers’ Market.
Being in Old Town, the Market is a leisurely walk or quick drive from Rivera Cuale. It is located on Pulpito, half a block off Olas Altas, and one block up from Los Muertos Beach in the new Paradise Community Center. It is open every Saturday from 10-1. There are new vendors being added every week. The Farmer’s Market will be open until July 31st, and then will resume next high season in early November.
Written by Estelle Eisen
For additional information please contact me.
Holy Guacamole!
The weather is starting to warm up here in Vallarta. Recently I was craving a tasty and easy to make snack that doesn’t involve cooking with heat, so I went to the outdoor market just around the corner from Rivera Cuale to select some fresh ingredients. As soon as I got to the market, I knew just the thing to make, and I easily found everything I needed. Then I headed up to the model unit to make… GUACAMOLE! There is tons of counter space in the roomy kitchen and lots of light both from the many windows and excellent built-in lighting.
Here are the ingredients I chose for this popular Mexican dish:
2 ripe avocados 
1 tomato (Roma is good)
¼ of a white onion
Couple sprigs of cilantro
Two cloves of garlic
Chile serrano
A few limes (the small ones)
Salt
Wash all the produce. Peel the avocados, remove the pits, and mash the avocado up in a bowl. Chop up the tomato, onion and cilantro and add in. Mince the garlic (or use a garlic crusher) and add in to the mixture. 
Throw in a little minced chile serrano and a bit of salt. Squeeze in the juice of a few limes. Mix. Taste the guacamole, then add in more chile, salt and lime to your liking.
Serve with totopos, on a chicken burger, as a side with fajitas… There are so many options! It’s a quick, nutritious dish to make, and it’s great in hot weather!
PROVECHO!
Written by Leanne Smith
I welcome your questions and comments!
Featured Unit: Limited Edition #103
This one-of-a-kind unit is a treat! The 2,257 square foot home features two large master bedroom suites, which both open onto a large terrace with direct riverfront access. The terrace has its own private, jetted dipping pool and stairs to take you down to the gardens, riverwalk and swimming pool. The unit also boasts a large open kitchen and living room, as well as a laundry room. And, it has almost double the river frontage as the other units!This fantastic unit is priced in the low $400’s. Please click on the “About Rivera Cuale” tab to contact us for further details.
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