Houses in Gringolandia

November is the beginning of the return migration of Americans and Canadians to Gringolandia. Most spend the scorching Baja summer in other parts of North America and have second homes on the East Cape. The return of the gringos marks the start of the real estate season with for sale signs popping up all over the place. The houses are generally large and fully furnished; some even come with vehicles and other toys (ATVs, kayaks, etc.). This is largely a market for gringos.

Having bought, remodeled and sold a number of houses, Rande and I have an interest in real estate. And having discussed living outside the US, we've’ve visited several nearby open houses to learn about housing and the real estate market.

If you’re wondering what your dollars can buy in Mexico, here are some pictures from a lovely East Cape house on the Sea of Cortez that’s listed for US$1,100,000.

Entry

House construction is cinder blocks, rebar and concrete with little steel or wood. Mechanical systems are relatively simple: electricity and water are municipal and houses are on septic systems. Municipal water is delivered about every three days, stored in a cistern (pila) and pumped to the house, often through light and particle filters. More remote houses may have water delivered by tank truck and solar power.

Living area

Dining area

Master bedroom

The Mexican Constitution prohibits foreigners from owning land within 100 km (62 mi) of a national border and 50 km (31 mi) of the coast. Amendments to the Constitution, however, allow foreigners to purchase and own property through a Mexican trust (fideicomiso) with a Mexican bank as the trustee and title holder, and the foreigner as the trust beneficiary. The initial term of the trust is 50 years and it can be renewed in the year before it expires (link).

Patio looking east

Patio looking north

If you made it this far, you're a real estate looky-loo too. See this link for more information on the house pictured above and this link for more East Cape real estate.