J.P. Money's Mexico Real Estate Blog

Caveat Emptor

Ethics, Integrity, and Real Estate Agents

Buying in the Riviera Maya

by J.P. Money

From time to time, there are buyers out there that have bad experiences with buying property not just here in the Riviera Maya but in Mexico in general. Mostly, they state that they were misrepresented to and thus did NOT get what they expected or worse….got ripped off.

And no question about it, like in all industries, there are always a few bad apples who do bad things and tar the rest with that dirty feather. However, it’s not all true that everyone is a crook and criminal and to suggest so is simply unjust.

Admittedly, unlike the U.S. where the market is highly regulated, here in Mexico there is no regulation or government over site. This lack of regulation can invite unsavory characters into the industry with no way to stop them. Yes, there are laws for property and they are to be followed but there are just no regulations for this industry and that fact is just right there in front of all us. Thus, we have to deal with this directly and honestly if we are going to have investment success in one of the most beautiful parts not only in Mexico but in the world.

In the U.S., when a broker or agent commits a fraud, the consequences are extremely steep. For one, they lose their license to practice and thus their livelihood and worse face jail time or extremely steep civil fine. Furthermore, in a court of law, the court looks upon the licensed Broker and Agent as a “professional” and the buyer and/or seller as “non-professional” and always holds the Broker and Agent to a much higher standard of behavior. So that when in doubt, the Broker and Agent can expect to be dealt a harsh blow even for minor faux paux. This explains the plethora of disclosure agreements that are signed during the buying/selling process in the USA. This protects everyone involved and clearly outlines the expectations. So when a Broker and Agent breaks that vow of professional ethics and integrity, they are severely punished.

From a Broker and Agent standpoint, all this regulation is hard and taxing on their persons. The added responsibilities are difficult. But, on the other hand, buyers are more secure and what we see is a more organized market that moves at lighting speed and from a macro standpoint, is the envy of any fan of pure economics.

Here in Mexico, it’s left to Caveat Emptor (buyer beware).

We are in a market that has virtually no oversight and is injected with a dose of chaos married with distrust and skepticism. This author has argued for years that a more regulated market will increase the sales exponentially. Of course, there must be an advantage to the chaos otherwise regulation would have happened already…I just can’t fathom that advantage except for the fact that scammers prefer ignorance in the market place so they can pull off the grift.

In Mexico, there is NO official license for brokers or agents and no real consequences for bad behavior to protect the buyer. They are left to their own accord. And like men and women from all walks of life, differing ideas of values and ethics exist side by side sometimes causing confusion.

So what is the buyer to do?

Well, to me, it’s clear that one must understand that a broker and/or agent gets paid a commission to complete a deal and thus, that’s there ultimate goal.

Most feel that doing the right thing and giving the buyer and seller great service is the way to go…….they feel great after the sale and the buyer and seller go away happy. One can argue that this type of person is the very best citizen and is out to do good work.

Some feel that as long as they sale is completed and they got their commission, who cares! The agent has a commission and moves on and the buyer and sellers are left holding and unhappy bag of “I got screwed!”.

The latter is weakest type of so-called salesperson, if we can call them that……and frankly, I don’t think we can. It’s more appropriate to refer to this low life as a Confidence Man or better known as a “con-man”.

Just like a Sales Professional, they win the trust and confidence from the prospect…..and then they abuse it completely and without conscience as soon as they can get away with it. This is intentional and always was part of the plan. They faulty and cannot help themselves. It’s in the nature. These type of people are to be outed immediately and challenged. They are bad for everyone in the market. Some of them even wear suits, drive nice cars, and insist that you “trust them”……..so be careful, not only in Real Estate here but everywhere on every continent. That’s just common cents!

But thankfully, most people just can’t go that far. A moral compass stops them from such behavior.

In fact, most choose to do good work and respect and honor the process. It’s an innate thing….that’s not to say that some good people don’t make mistakes. They do and it can sometimes look like a scammer but in reality it’s just a ignorant person not knowing what’s the right thing to do. I especially find this in younger folks…..they typically are trying their best but are unaware that sales in of itself is a profession and has that they can sell honestly with great pride and do good work, and yes, get a honest and significant commission for it. All they need is leadership and mentor to help them see the light and to run from that dark place where lying, cheating, stealing, and dishonor is just a path to genuine personal and yes, financial failure as not even a grift of money can save this person from losing it’s true value and thus will lose it anyway as they follow it’s path into the abyss of becoming a nowhere man or women!

So as a buyer, what do you do?

Common Cents! That’s What!

Well, for one, make sure you check out the brokers references and past clients. Be direct. If that broker or agent is offended, guess what? They are hiding something and that’s a red flag. More, learn everything you can about buying property in Mexico. Do NOT come to Mexico and buy like you are buying an impulsive piece of chocolate at the supermarket line. That’s a set up for failure in a big way. What is an Fideicomiso? An Escritura? What is a Notario? If you don’t know yet, find out first because it’s caveat emptor here in Mexico………..double check everything! Period! And if someone gets offended, they need to be offended!

Now, most of you will buy and have good experiences……we just want all of you to buy down here smartly and intelligently because when you buy here in the Riviera Maya and have success, everyone benefits…………well, except the scam artist! And who needs them anyways!

Labels: ethics, integrity, profession, real estate, sales

It is really tough for an individual to lead a happy life with huge amount of debt.

If you have lots of debts, you are always worried about the harassment of collection agencies, their phone calls at your home and even at your work. You might think of filing bankruptcy to get rid of this situation, but before taking the final decision you should know the bad effects of bankruptcy. Bankruptcy hurts your credit negatively and it will be difficult for you to get further loans with poor or bad credit report.

So if you think that you are in huge debt and find it tough to pay all your loans in full then debt consolidation is the best way that you can go for. Debt consolidation mortgage loan service will help you to consolidate your credit cards, personal loans, student loans, medical bills and various other types of debts. There are certain qualifying criteria for mortgage loan which vary for different lenders. Most of them will require proof of at least three years of stable income to ascertain if you qualify for debt consolidation mortgage loan. So a good credit history is essential to fit for this loan.

In addition, you may have some bad points against your credit history, still your lenders sometimes will consider if you have shown an effort to clear up your debts.The reason of borrowing a debt consolidation mortgage loan is not only getting relief from creditors or collection agencies but also consolidating your bills into one monthly payment which is little lower than what you paid previously in order to release your financial stress. It will help to avoid filing bankruptcy and to stay as a credit worthy consumer. In this way your credit report will remain good which will help you to get further loans when required.But you should make a research to find out a reputed debt consolidation loan company, because many of these companies may really be loan sharks.

You should avoid these companies at all cost as they will place you under strict monthly payment terms and charge a higher rate of interest. While refinancing you might look for non-profit lenders who will be able to give you the best alternatives. So go for a good debt consolidation mortgage loan company in order to keep yourself free from all the harassment of collection agencies, avoid bankruptcy, pay minimum amount of interest and maintain a creditworthy profile.

Debt Consolidation Loan is at http://www.debtconsolidationcare.com

A Weekly Update on What's Happening in our Market Area

- Fonatur Invests 11.8m in Cozumel

- The Tides Break Out Party

- Podcasts for Costa Maya and Tulum Posted

- Sirenis Project Opens Doors

- Charity gets Boost From Realtors

- Historic Property Rises Again in Cozumel

THE TIDES BREAK OUT PARTY

In celebration of The Tides Playa Del Carmen setting a record $ 50,000,000 of property sold over a single weekend with over $ 1,000,000 paid out in real estate commissions" general partner and host Trip Dubois with Director of Sales Bjoern Koch through an industry party at their world class Tides Beach Club. Attended by the who's who of industry professionals, the party was out of bounds. "Great music and super food" reported Judi Shaw from Remax Playa. "More importantly, the connections were just superb. These are the movers and shakers in our industry here tonight and it's a pleasure to be in such high end company." We have the pictures for you..and instead of boring you with a few stills, Riviera Maya Real Estate News and MLS 4 Riviera Maya put together this little video for you with a song called Ravers by the The Skeletones. We hope you enjoy. Click Here and Watch the Video

SIRENIS PROJECT OPENS IT'S DOORS

Salvador Company and his staff of industry professionals at Remax Riviera hosted a luncheon at the Sirenis Project just north of Akumal. It was an afternoon of talking real estate and sharing among the areas professionals "This project has been compared to a higher end Playacar" says Carolina Guzman of Remax Riviera. "Luxurious and Prestigous. We are selling condos and lots now with financing available.

2 NEW PODCASTS POSTED

- Denis Couture of Mexico Caribbean appeared on Let's Talk Real Esate with J.P. Money to talk about the Costa Maya and Lake Bacalar. Denis is has been running sales tours in the area for years and brings his extensive knowledge to the podcast. If your are thinking of investing in the Costa Maya or Lake Bacalar, you need to listen to what Denis has to say. Click Here to Listen

- Daniel Romo and Vera Radivojevich of Sian Kaan Real Estate also appeard on Let's Talk Real Estate this week to share their over 7 years of living and selling real estate in the Tulum and Sian Kaan Area. Learn the past, present, and future of this unique eco-friendly area. Click Here to Listen.

SISAL TWINE PRODUCED IN COZUMEL - HISTORIC PROPERTY AQUIRED

70 years ago, the Yucatan peninsula had no land comunication with the rest of Mexico. 30 years ago, the State of Quintana Roo was still a territory 30 years. The main income 100 years ago was the production of sisal twine (the heneken plant) of which all the ropes in the world were made of. The Yucatan peninsula was the sole supplier of this material worldwide. It was considered the "Green Gold". The only sisal Hacienda on the eastern coast was in Cozumel. It was called "Hacienda De Colombia" located on the edge of a lagoon with the same name. This week Mike and Beth, from California USA, have aquired this unique and historical property of over 5000 square meters. They plan to reconstruct the old Hacienda to be able to re open it fo our visitors. They also plan to live on this fantastic property full of "cenotes" and tropical plants a few yards from the ocean. And it was only $170,000 usd. "Wow! This is only posible in Cozumel" reports Bill Morales and Nancy Edwards of Cozumel Living

NEWS SALES AGENT JOINS RIVIERA REALTORS

This week Riviera Realtors welcomed ALAMILLA ESMERALDA to their team! Esmeralda is originally from Guadalajara Mexico and now calls Playa Del Carmen her home. She has a background in real estate and an enthusiasm we can all learn from! Riviera Realtors welcomes Esmeralda to their team!" repors Sales Manager, Shanna Giannakis

CANCUN TOWERS AND NOVO CANCUN UPDATE

Wall Street Associates, a mortgage company in Cancun, will be attending a private function for Novo Cancun, 600 unit development in Puerto Cancun on Thursday evening. They are providing financing for Americans, Canadians, Europeans and Mexicans with 30% down and no payments until completion. Cancun Towers is promoting luxury style condominuims starting at $300,000 usd. The developers are including amenties like no other developer in Cancun and Riviera Maya. "Units are selling fast! The Grand Opening of the model will be in a few weeks" reports Carma Turanich of ProCorpo Real Estate in Cancun. Anyone interested in attending please email carma@procorprealestate to register asap!

Carma Turanich at ProCorp Real Estate reports that ProCorp Real Estate is taking the real estate market by storm! "In the past few months we are selling 90 units exclusively in Cancun Towers, and 1 of 3 brokers exclusively selling Novo Cancun, 600 unit project. Both developments are located in the exclusive oceanfront and golf course community of Puerto Cancun. We also have many individual condominuims and homes listed in all price ranges. We have a new agent joining ProCorp Real Estate this week, Alejandro de Anda. All his past clients and friends are welcome to stop in or call to say 'Hola"! ProCorp Real Estate and Wall Street Associates wish everyone Safe and Happy Holidays!!" says Carma

COLONIA PUERTO MORELOS XMAS HOLIDAY GETS BOOST FROM REALTORS

"You know how when someone does something nice it makes you misty eyed? That is how I have felt all week! There has been an overwhelming response from fellow agents and brokers who want to help the children of Colonia Puerto Morelos. We still need more and as you know the time flies like that! Thanks to allfor putting the word out." says Elizabeth Greg from Elimar Properties.

FONATUR SPENDS 11.8 MILLION IN COZUMEL

The Governor of the State of Quintan Roo, Lic. Felix Gonzalez Canto, announced that the construction of Fonatur Marine in Cozumel is considered in the 2007 Federation budget of President Felipe Calderon, with a total investment of 11.8 million usd. This project will be located next to El Presidente Hotel at La Caleta. Along with this project there were other two announced for Majahual and Cancun, also considered in the 2007 budget. This note was sent to us by Cindy Trautwein, The Road Warrior

REALTOR GOES SAILING FOR PROPERTY

Melissa Correa, owner of The Aqua Group, was was invited to spend the afternoon on a yacht in Puerto Adventuras to be the first to learn about a new 5 star resort development in Tulum...I really love my job!

BAR FOR SALE IN COZUMEL

Cozumel Living has a new listing for a bar downtown called the "Corona Bar". The owner is asking $50,000 for the corporation to take it over. It grosses $12,000/mo and is very successful. The owner just doesn't want to be in the bar business. We also have an excellent deal in Corpus Christi, the BEST vacation rental neighborhood not on the ocean. It's a pre-construction 2 bedroom, 2 bath home with laundry area, pull in secure parking, and appliances for $130,000. A jacuzzi and other amenities can be added, but you won't find aother deal like this in Cozumel" says Nancy Edwards from Cozumel Living

BUYERS SEMINAR ANNOUNCED FOR MARCH 26-27

MLS 4 Riviera Maya and Riviera Maya Real Estate will be sponsoring a 2 day Buyers Seminar, March 26-27 2007. Buyers will be presented with all the information on buying in Mexico and the Riviera Maya. The Seminar is slated to be hosted at the Gran Portal Real Hotel. This unique independent seminar will look to educated prospective buyers on the investing successfuly in our area. Look for the formal announcement and details coming this week. For details now, email seminars@rivieramayarealestatenews.com

MLS WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS

MLS 4 Riviera Maya welcomes new members Ulla MeiBohm of Playacar Beach Properties and Daniel Romo and Vera Radivojevich of Sian Kaah Real Estate Compay. MLS 4 Riviera Maya now has over 500 listings posted from over 45 agents in the Riviera Maya.

Proceeds go to Charity Group for Children, New Players Invited

This Saturday Dec. 9th, The Camaleon golf course at Mayakoba will be the site of major golf tournament for the benefit of Un Kilo de Ayuda (A kilo of help), a local charity group that feeds children in poor neighborhoods.

The host of the tournament is Remax Playa, a local real estate sales company in Playa del Carmen. The Greg Norman designed golf course is probably the finest in the area.

El Camaleón Golf Course at the Mayakoba resort is Greg Norman's latest masterwork. The 7,000-yard layout is unique - not just to Mexico but to the entire world of golf. The course bends through three distinct landscapes - mangrove jungles, limestone canals and stunning, oceanfront stretches of sand. El Camaleón incorporates a cenote, a massive underground cavern, into the heart of the opening fairway.

The handsome, Mayan influenced clubhouse that rises above the 18th green will feature a fine dining room with stunning views over the course. The adjoining practice facility and driving range are of international caliber. With Mayakoba's unique system of lagoons, golfers will be able to step out of their rooms and into a boat, which will ferry them directly to the first tee. El Camaleón Golf Course is managed by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

* 1st Prize is a Panasonic DVD Home Theatre
* 2nd Place is a Mini Phone
* 3rd Place is Spa Treatment at the Fairmont

Entrance Fees are 2,500.00 pesos per player and $10,000.00 pesos per team of four.
All the entrances fees are donated to Un Kilo de Ayuda and are 100% tax deductible.

The prize sponsors are Nissan Group, Autosur, Fairmont Hotel, Camaleon Golf Club, In Playa Magazine, La Quinta Magazine, The Mexican Caribbean Golf Magazine, the Association of Hotels, and the Secretary of Municipal Tourism.

The Hotel Fairmont Spa & Resort will be the host for the awards ceremony

To enter the tournament Contact Ernesto Riquelme

Increase the Balance in Your Karma Bank!

A note from Elizabeth Gregg at Elimar Properties

Dear Good Friends, Mario and I have been living in Playa Paraiso for 3 years. Our house keeper Viki Perez has been with us since day one. She not only helps 2 busy Realtors by keeping our house clean but she has also helped a new mom (me) raise our beautiful 2 year old daughter Leila. Vicki has been through several health crisis and many personal family hardships in the time we have known her and we have always done the most we could to help her in every way possible. Viki means a lot to us.

Last year she told us about an event in Colonia Puerto Morelos (West-Side of 307). Every December 24th the town gets together to give each child under 5 years of age a Christmas gift. Most of the children will not receive anything in their home, Viki told us........"...its just a little way to show the children that someone cares." She doesn´t have enough to create a recognized affiliated event, so its just a group of neighbors who do their best. Last year she was embarrassed to ask for help and many of the little ones were turned away without a gift! Its difficult to hold back tears when you think of those sad little faces.

Viki has spent time and effort all year long to make it different this year. Part of her work has been to collect aluminum cans. She has been doing that for quite some time and last week when she brought them to recycling they only gave her $650 Moneda Nacional. Can you imagine what kind of a person she is? She still needs so much herself and finds it in her heart to try to make a difference for others!

So here´s the situation:

We need 300 gifts. 150 boys gifts, 150 girls gifts. I figure I can round up maybe a hundred between my friends and family but that will not be enough. Here is where I need your help: Its your chance to Increase the Balance in Your Karma Bank! Its so easy, next time you are in Wal-Mart, Sam´s or Mega, pick up a $5 to $10 gift for a boy or girl. Then wrap it and write Niño or Niña on it and bring it to my office! You can even buy more than one! We have about 3 weeks so lets work together to make sure not one child is left behind this Christmas Eve in Colonia Puerto Morelos! If anyone feels like they can do more give me a call. 998-185-9885

From our Family to yours, Merry, Merry Christmas Eli Gregg

Elimar Properties

ADDRESS: PRIMERA NORTE ENTRE 24 Y 26#282 EDIFICIO HACIENDA SAN JOSE LOCAL-2COLONIA XAMAN-HA, PLAYA DEL CARMEN,SOLIDARIDAD, QUINTANA ROO, MEXICOCODIGO POSTAL 77710

OFFICE: 01152-984-803-3912
FAX: 01152-984-803-3911

A Weekly Update on What's Happening in our Market Area

- Broker Launches Big Golf Tournament for Kids

- Big Industry Event This Friday

- Realtor Helps Kids with Education

- Big Sales Big Season

- Two Queens in Cozumel

- MLS Welcomes 13 New Members

Each week, we feature snippets of what's happened this week in Real Estate here in the Riviera Maya…….so without delay, let's roll…

INDUSTRY EVENT

Mr. Salvador Company of Akumal Real Estate & Remax Riviera is pleased to invite all realtors and industry professionals to a luncheon presentation of the RESIDENCIAL TURISTICO SIRENIS COMPLEX. This event will take place Friday Dec. 8th. It starts at 1:00pm on the complex premises located 4 kilometers before Akumal. RESIDENCIAL TURISTICO SIRENIS COMPLEX is a hotel with 500 rooms that has just opened on this development. Another 500 rooms will open in February 2007 and two more in the a space of 8 months to complete a total of 2,000 rooms with 2 kilometers of beautiful beachfront grounds, like XAAC, a real wonder unmatched in the Riviera Maya. This development counts with family unit areas, family condos and condos under construction very close to completion. SIRENIS also has a commercial center with some stores already opened, like Lapis - a Jewelery store - and our sales office. Mr. Company welcomes all industry professionals to this event. "We are sure that you will find a product of great interest and you will be very impressed with this development" says Salvador Company. Riviera Maya Real Estate News and MLS 4 Riviera Maya will be there … we look forward is seeing all there. For more information contact Veronica at Remax Riviera at veronica@remax-riviera.com.mx

GOLF TOURNAMENT FOR KIDS AT MAYAKOBA

Ernesto Riquelme, broker / owner of Remax Playa reports that his office is sponsoring a fantastic golf tournament at Mayakoba to benefit underprivileged children in the community. "Yes, all proceeds will go to UN KILO DE AYUDA (one kilo of help). This community group is dedicated to feeding underprivileged children with food and other community needs. The tournament will be held on Dec. 9th. All players are welcome from amateurs to pros. On Monday, we will be doing a major story on this fantastic tournament so stay tuned for big details and get ready. For immediate information, contact Ernesto Riquelme now.

REALTOR HELPS ANGEL NOTION AND EDUCATION FOR KIDS

"As part of my belief to not just take up space in a community but to be part of the community, I gladly sponsored two children for Christmas gifts to handed out to needy families in the area, via Angel Notion" says Judi Shaw of Remax Playa. "It was a privilege" says Judi proudly. Each child will get educational books and CDs with good messages and learning experiences. The materials are great and they will get follow up teachings from dedicated workers. It is $ 60 usd per child. Angel notion has a goal of $ 10,000 usd to sponsor as many children as possible this Christmas. "Contributing this way is a gift that will last a lifetime" says Judi. If you would like to assist contact Judi Shaw and she will put in your touch with the right people.

BIG SALES HIGH SEASON

- Bob McCain at Caribe Properties reports that his office sold 3 properties this week. "We sold 1 house and 2 condos" says Don Rhodes, sales associate in the office. "Things are moving super fast"

- Jason Waller, Sales Manager of Realty Executives Mexican Caribbean welcomed franchise owner Tom Budniak to Playa Del Carmen this week.....the office is happy to report we have taken our 12th reservation for The Elements this week........we have closed two condos this week........there are also many more exciting happenings for our office that should come in the next week....Best of luck to all in the upcoming week!!!!

- "I closed 4 deals this week! Wow! Two units were sold to a lovely client from Canada. We did it all long distance. Really - without even knowing each other. Unbelievable! This was so great!" says Irene Soto from One Stop Real Estate in Playa del Carmen. Also, One Stop Real Estate is planning their Christmas party and preparing for all their clients who are coming in for the holidays. Plus, the Playa del Carmen Caballeros, a local youth American Football Team who One Stop Real Estate has sponsored, finished the regular season undefeated. The playoffs start today, this Saturday December 2nd. The big game to decide who goes to the Super Finals is at 3pm at Mario Villannueva Stadium on 10th and 34th in Playa del Carmen. This is the biggest game in the short team history. So come out and support Playa del Carmen youth sports and watch American Football, Mexico Style!

7% COMMISIONS OFFERED

Daniel Reyes Basso of Riviera Realty in Puerto Aventuras has posted a Luxury Villa in Puerto Aventuras with a 50/50 7% split commision +1%, total 4.5% to buyer´s agent. This listing is posted on MLS at Luxury Villa in Puerto Aventuras

TWO QUEENS IN COZUMEL

Two queens arrived at Cozumel this week ratifying their status as #1 in Cruise Ship Arrivals in the World. The brand new ships - Queen Elizabeth and the Queen Mary II - created a great expectation as they are the most luxurious in the world today. "Crew members become part of our local community due to their repeated weekly arrivals. They are also excellent real estate buyers" reports Bill Morales Stevens, sales agent at Cozumel Living Real Estate. "As always, quite a few crew members are with us now. High season is cranking up fast just as our sales are too. Have a nice week and see you soon at Cozumel Living. Bill Morales Stevens, Cozumel Living Real Estate and MLS Member.

PODCAST HEATS UP THIS WEEK

- Daniel Romo and Vera from Sian Kaan Real Estate Company will be recording a podcast with Let's Talk Real Estate on Monday at 5pm. The topic will be Sian Kaan and Tulum - the past, present, and future.

- Denis Couture from Mexico Caribbean will be on talking about the Costa Maya on Tuesday at 6pm. Host J.P. Money and Denis plan to talk about real estate in the Costa Maya and what's really happening down there.

QUOTES FROM PARADISE

Mario Gomez from Elimar Properties was saying to his neighbor "Another day in Paradise is wonderful. Everyday is a great day to enjoy here in the Mexican Caribbean! Is this work? No Señor, this is paradise". Mario wishes all a great day and super success.

13 NEW MEMBERS ADDED TO MLS 4 RIVIERA MAYA THIS WEEK

This week, MLS 4 Riviera Maya welcomed new members

- Antonio Ramos of Coldwell Banker

- Carma Turanich of ProCorp Real Estate in Cancun

- Carolina Guzmán Colomer of Remax Riviera

- Cindy Nelander of Coldwell Banker in Playa del Carmen

- Denise Barrera of Realty Cantex

- Dianne Benson of Remax Cozumel

- Henny / James Watts of Remax Cozumel

- Jim Botaish of Remax Resort Properties in Cancun

- Luis Arce Lara of Century 21 Reef in Cancun and Playa del Carmen

- Ronald Gwynne Pool Heather of Playa Expert in Playa del Carmen

- Santiago Muñoz of PlayaUno Vacation Rentals in Playa del Carmen

- Scott Gibbons of Villas Talia

- Wael Gamaly of Premier Properties in Playa del Carmen

* New Member Jorge Basurto of Riviera Realtors reports "Heeeeeyy J.P. we have our first confirmed appointment with a client from MLS!!.. Great chance to make a brilliant deal!!! And Xotic Villas had a lot of hits this week!! Thanks, Jorge Basurto, Sales Agent, Riviera Realtors"

* New Member Melissa Correa from Aqua Group got her first lead today from MLS 4 Riviera Maya. "yeah, it was fantastic. If was for a property that we are really hot on so it's great"

Now with over 460 new listings posted from more than 40 different independent sales agents and brokers in the Riviera Maya including Cancun, Isla Mujeres, Puerto Aventuras, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Tulum, Akumal, and the Costa Maya including Bacalar, MLS 4 Riviera Maya is officially the largest independent listing service on the net for real estate in the Riviera Maya, in deed.

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This Week in Riviera Maya Real Estate is posted every Friday Night. If you have news you want us to promote, you must email it to us no later than 5pm each Friday to jp@mls4rivieramaya.com. Articles and their links are posted on Riviera Maya Real Estate News and the MLS 4 Riviera Maya Blog. In addition, it is emailed to all our on our newsletter list.

This Week in Riviera Maya Real Estate

News from the Week Ending 11/24/2006

1. - Realtors Report Business has Picked Up Significantly in the Riviera Maya
2. - Local Youth American Football Team Goes Undefeated Sponsored by Local Realtors
3. - New Sales Manager Hired at Riviera Realtors
4. - MLS 4 Riviera Maya Reports Big Growth in New Listings Posted

Elizabeth Gregg from Elimar Properties, a new MLS 4 Riviera Maya member has just received several new juicy listings. Elizabeth says she will post them on MLS 4 Riviera Maya this coming week. "I just recieved them a few hours ago....I have to process and then post them. Business is booming here and we are so busy.....it's great. The high season is here!" says Elizabeth

Don Rhodes from Caribe Properties also reports a significant increase in activity in his office as does Clark Kent of Remax-Playa in Playa del Carmen. Clark says "the walk-in traffic has increased big time..super busy here in the office".

In Akumal, Pamela DiOrio of Luna Maya Real Estate reports that Akumal is at almost 100% occupancy and that walk in traffic has been great. "Hopefully this is a precursor to what will be our best season ever" says an upbeat Pamela.

Sally Wood Evans of Coldwell Banker in Puerto Aventuras is currently in Philadelphia visiting family for the Thanksgiving Holiday. "I just saw the movie Bobby and I am visiting with my Dad" reports Sally "It's great visiting family for the holidays. I wanted to get up here in Philly just to say hello before I got back to Puerto Aventuras and bunkered in for the high season. Our office is ready and we are rolling. I will be back in a few days" reports Sally.

Amber Pierce-Schulz from Mayan Riviera Properties reports a new 9 unit Luxury 2 bed 2 bath Pre-Sale Condominium in Puerto Morelos coming on the market December 1st. "We will post this listing on MLS 4 Riviera Maya as soon as it's released.

Shawn Bandick and Jorge Penkoff, of One Stop Real Estate, have donated a significant amount of funds to assist the American Youth Football Team here in Playa del Carmen. The club team is called the Playa del Carmen Caballeros. They started from the Collegio Ingles school in Playa del Carmen and now have grown to include kids from many area schools. The midget team is currently undefeated in league play after 6 games and have already qualified for the playoffs. "We are competing against the more established teams in Cancun and winning to their shock" says proud sponsor Shawn. "This is important for our new community of kids" says Jorge "They learn leadership skills, teamwork, and coooperation under adversity, just like we deal with here in Real Estate. It's mission critical that we give back to our community so that our future is stablized and secure". "With community support, kids who would not normally be able to afford it can now play. It's good to give back from that which we take. It's right" Shawn adds. The teams play club teams from Cancun to Merida weekly. In the picture above, that's Shawn and Jorge with their kids - Riley Bandick 13 (Fullback) and Ricardo Penkoff (14) Quarterback. If you would like to contribute to the American Football Team club here in Playa del Carmen, contact Shawn or Jorge anytime.

Ricardo Barton, partner at Riviera Realtors reports that they hve hired Shanna Giannakis as their new sales manager. "She's a rising star in our industry" says Ricardo. Bernie Gaertner, sales agent from Riviera Realtors says " Congratulations Shanna!!! Everyone agrees that the brief time you have spent here at Riviera Realtors, it has made a significant and positive change here at the office. From all of us at Riviera Realtors! Congratulations! " Read Shanna's Story here.

Judi Shaw of Remax-Playa reports that she has taken her first deposit on the brand new Xcalacoco Beach Resort project just north of Playa del Carmen and is closing on a condo this week. She also reports that her dog Vicky got away this week only to be brought back by a friend. "Phew that was close.....Vicky is so rambucous" says Judi, who is part of the animal rescue community here in Playa del Carmen and works with the local animal shelters. "One real important thing that I have noticed is that brokers and agents are working with one another superbly at a high level of integrity that I have never seen before" reports Judi. "It is impressive and I really think that this new way of thinking is really working it's way up to beneift all of us and ultimately our buyer. It's just great" says Judi

MLS 4 Riviera Maya welcomes new members Ernesto Riquelme, owner of Remax-Playa and past President of AMPI, Aldo Juarez of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Caribbean Realty in Puerto Aventuras, Elizbeth Gregg of Elimar Properties in Playa del Carmen, and Daniel Reyes of Riviera Realty in Puerto Aventuras.

MLS 4 Riviera Maya announces that it now has over 360 listings posted from 31 agents in the Riviera Maya. "We are so proud to offer our agents an added avenue to the internet superhighway" says Betty Ontiveros, manager. "In fact, we are extending our 90 day free trial offer until Nov. 30th of this month so that those agents that are ready to join can take advantage of this no obligation offer just in time for the high season. We want to get this high season rolling forward as fast as possilble for our real estate community. We are working 7 days a week to get the word out and it's been great. We just have to keep up the energy and continue to do good as we enjoy our lovely caribbean life here in the Riviera Maya".

Lack of Certainty in Titling Inhibits Investment in the Riviera Maya

Title Insurance is key to your Purchase in the Riviera Maya


by Ivan Castillo

Mexico offers an exciting opportunity for real estate investment. The 1994 liberalization of ownership provisions, provides non-Mexican nationals with greater legal freedom and ownership rights, opening the market to new sources of capital and providing non-Mexican nationals with many exciting investment locations. But before any investment is made a purchaser needs to be aware of the basic issues that surround property transfers and ownership laws.

At Stewart Title, we recommend these six principles to help buyers avoid risk;

1. Determine if the seller has legal ownership of the property and if it can be transferred legally.
2. Hire Mexican counsel or a title insurance company to search the ownership status back to the sovereign
3. Have your legal counsel review the buy/sell agreement, which usually determines the transaction's terms and conditions.
4. Arrange for a title company to handle the escrow of funds
5. Obtain a property ownership insurance policy to protect against recording errors, liens, encroachments, taxes, fraud, misrepresentation and other ownership issues.
6. If the property is a condominium regime (the regimen de condominio and the like), which defies the owners' rights, obligations, and restrictions.

These steps are even more important to take as, here in the Riviera Maya, the double titling of lots and property title forgery are the main inhibitors of investment in Quintana Roo. The lack of legal certainty causes rejection of about 30% of all applications to insure land - regarding property - mainly in the Riviera Maya.

The lack of certainty as to land tenancy prevails because in the Quintana Roo state there is no true control over the property titling. There are 4 Public Registry of Property offices - in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, and Chetumal. They are run separately and are NOT linked together in order to identify lots already executed by deed in another municipality. A title search can reveal the errors in title. Here at Stewart Title, our attorneys do the research to identify the property defects.

As a real estate information services corporation, Stewart has been providing buyers, sellers, and lenders, with the information and solutions to protect their real estate for more than a century. For more than a decade Stewart Title Guaranty de Mexico has provided non-Mexican nationals with the educational resources and title/escrow services to protect their Mexican real estate investments.

As the only U.S. based title insurance company to have a fully licensed Mexican underwriter, our bi-lingual professionals on both sides of the border pride themselves on helping you safely, securely navigate the Mexican closing process. For more information about how to safely purchase property in Mexico please contact us anytime.

Ivan Castillo is the General Manager for Stewart Title Riviera Maya.

He can be reached at ;

• Playa del Carmen Tel: +52(984) 879-4387 /88
• USA Tel: 1(858) 433-0694
• Email: icastillo@stewartrm.com

by Sabrina Boyd, Mortgages in Mexico

Hello All, here is the information Mortgages In Mexico has been waiting on from GE Capital!
We have a 30 year fixed loan program - 8.99% - excellent rate! It's a 10/20 - fixed for 10 years and adjusts for 20 - total of 30 years - 8.625% (8 5/8%) We also have 5/25 - fixed 5 years, adjusts for 25 years - total of 30 years - 8.375 (8 3/8%) and a 3/27 - fixed 3 years, adjusts for 27 years - total of 30 years - 8.25% - this rate has gone up from the 7.99 we've all known (interest rates continue to go up in the US and this increase in the cost of money is reflected in our Mexico loan programs)

Cash-out Refinance loans are now available - maximum cash out $500,000. Loan amount will be limited to 70% of original sales price, or 50% of current appraisal.

This loan program is limited to $10 Million throughout all of Mexico, so if you know anyone who wants to take advantage of this, tell them to act quickly. Likewise, now is a good time to go through your database of previous clients you've sold a home to and let them know this is now available. By taking cash out of their homes/condos, this will give them the money to invest in additional properties in Mexico. They know what the appreciation has been in their current homes, so they will want to take the existing equity in their homes and leverage it into an additional property or two. This is smart money - making your equity work for you, rather than being tied up in an existing property.

Right now is an excellent opportunity to contact your existing clientele and create some new business for yourself in the coming high season.
As you are probably aware, the SRE permits are taking up to 8-9 weeks to get. We are now ordering them locally in Puerto Vallarta, so the time is less, but because the Office of Foreign Ministry in DF will be closed for 3 weeks in December/January, you will need to adjust the closing dates in your contracts to reflect this - realistically we're looking at February at the earliest, and likely your new transactions will be going into March - crazy I know, but it is the same situation whether buyers are paying cash or getting a loan.

The SRE permits are required for the fideicomiso, so unless your buyer is a Mexican National, there is no way around getting the SRE permit, so prepare your sellers they're in for a delay in closing their property.

Mortgages In Mexico is here to take care of all the finiancing needs for you and your clients. Remember, we have loans for new construction, and commercial money for hotels and development of condos where the loan amount is $5 Million or greater. If you know your buyers are coming into town, it is always a good idea to have them pre-qualified before they arrive.

This way, they are almost identical to a cash-buyer - we only have to work on the property side of the loan file if we have the buyers already qualified, and you won't be wasting your valuable time with buyers who may not be able to afford what they want. Hang on to your hats - it's already turning into a very busy high season! I look forward to working with you and your clients.
Sabrina Boyd is a Personal Mortgage Consultant at Mortgages in MexicoShe works by Referral Only. She can be reached by email at mortgagesinmexico@msn.com
Mortgages In Mexico US 760.494.8847 toll free 866.300.2914 Mexico 555.350.8784 fax 760.454.1699

Get to Know the Dynamic Women in Business of the Riviera Maya

Riviera Realtors adds News Sales Manager to Team

by J.P. Money

Riviera Realtors is pleased to welcome Shanna Giannakis as Sales Manager for Riviera Realtors. A welcome addition to their team, Shanna is originally from Montreal, Canada and now calls Playa del Carmen her home.

Educated at university in Montreal Canada and with work experiences in Saint Martin and elsewhere around the world, Shanna brings her a high level of professionalism, enthusiasm, and world class business acumen to Playa del Carmen and our Riviera Maya.

With a background in marketing and the leisure travel industry she brings a fresh and energetic approach to our vacation and investment property industry.

“If it takes a village to raise a child then I believe it takes a great team to find the best investment and vacation properties for our clients.” Shanna was quoted as saying when we visited with her at her office in Playa del Carmen.

Heading a new team of 10 sales agents with a combined total of 15 years experience in real estate market here in the Riviera Maya, Shanna has a wealth of diverse backgrounds to drawn upon to assist clients from anywhere in the world.

“At Riviera Realtors, we are a one stop shop for our clients. From sales, rentals, and more, we pride ourselves on the highest quality of services that give our clients the very best ” says Shanna.

You can find Shanna in the sales office in the Plaza Antigua on 10th Avenue daily. She invites all to drop in for a cup of coffee and to learn all about the investment opportunities in the Riviera Maya. “If your dream is to own vacation property in the beautiful Riviera Maya and you thought it was out of reach, contact us” says Shanna.

“You must do the things you think you cannot do.” Shanna likes to say as quoted by Eleanor Roosevelt, first lady to Frankiln Delano Roosevelt of the United States from 1932-1945. Seems that Shanna is doing just that as adds value to our real industry here in the Riviera Maya.

View all Riviera Realtors' Listings on MLS 4 Riviera Maya

You've Purchased Your Vacation Condo, now what? Learn how to make the connections that get things done here in Playa del Carmen from one of the area's top professionals.

Remember, Rome Was Not Built In a Day!

by Elizabeth Gregg

Let´s face it. Most of us aren´t interior designers. So when you purchase your new home or condo in the Mexican Riviera you realize, " Now I have to furnish this!" In most of our past experiences with properties we have grown accostomed to moving to a new home with at least some furniture and belongings from the previous one, making it somewhat easier to decorate.

Five years ago when we purchased our first property here in the Riviera Maya of Mexico it came with no appliances, air-conditioning was not installed (not included), no overhead fixtures/ceilling fans and no toilet seat covers! Imagine the quagmire with rusty Spanish to have to search all over Cancun for everthing from ceiling fans to towel bars not to mention the furniture. After that we had to hire a moving truck to haul all of our stuff back to Playa del Carmen or wait to have it delivered. Whew! Just remembering that experience makes me break out in a sweat.

Thankfully, developers have come a long way in that appliances are usually included in new construction along with AC and fixtures installed. Also, there is so much convenience and selection for furniture, fixtures, appliances, art, home accessories, custom services, plants, home electronics, rugs......and the list goes on.

When we first opened our office here in Playa del Carmen we had to take clients everywhere to help them furnish their homes. Now its so easy, you just have to hit the Highway 307 and wander back and forth between the North and South ends of Playa del Carmen and you can practically find everything you need...even if your Spanish is not perfect!


Our Favorites

-Furniture-Munde de Arte, Muebla, Altimus, Azcue, Casa Latina, Detagglio
-Custom Furniture-Exotic Wood-Ricardo Lugo
-Aluminum Doors-Aluminio Del Caribe ( they can install new or repair any issues with sliding doors or screens)
-Mosaics and Custom Glass-Gastón Taborda, Carretera Federal Cancún-Tulum, frente a 1° entrada Playacar Playa del Carmen(77712), Quintana Roo, México
Telefax: 984-206-2994 / mail: tevaaencantar@prodigy.net.mx
- Appliances-Sams or Telebodega
- Home Electronics-Costco (they have the most convenient return policy)
- Art-Just look around...there are galleries everywhere! Contact us for info on our favorite artists!
- Computers-Costco
- Mattresses-Telebodega or Sears
- Bedding/Towels-For sheets Sams or Costco. For decorative bedding sets unfortunately you still have to buy it in your country...we reccomend: Pottery Barn-lightweigh summer quits, Company Store-same
- Plants and Trees-Vivero Los Pinos
- Handyman Services-Info available upon request
- Outdoor Furniture-Sams or Costco
- Garden Maintenance-Info available upon request
- Pool Maintenance-Info available upon request
- Pest Control-Info available upon request
- Monex-Banking and wire transfer service. Scotia Bank has the shortest wait in line


SHOPPING TIPS FOR FURNISHING YOUR NEW HOME IN MEXICO!

- Makesure cash withdrawal limit on bank card is at least $1000 per day
- The best deals are when you pay cash
- Factories and small stores don't take credit
- No one takes checks unless its from a local account
- Familiarize yourself with the money and how it relates to US dollars (even if you are not American)
- Make a good friend who is willing to help you locally (speaks fluent spanish)
- Don't hesitate to ask for a discount, especially when you purchase many items from one store
- If money is wired to you at Monex, tell the sender to make sure they send it to the full name on your passport (including your middle name)
When picking up a money wire, bring a copy of passport and drivers license to leave there
- Tremendous help: a local cell phone so you can make calls when you need to, if yours works here be careful of roaming charges
- Check with airline on how many cases you are allowed... usually you are allowed 2. Fill those with BEDDING (Not sheets) (plan your bed sizes in advance).
- Even if you don't like buying on credit, bring a dependable credit card with an ample limit
- Make sure you have the phone number to your bank/banker handy in case of emergency
- Keep all your receipts so you can verify deliveries
- Know your address or be able to draw a map of your location
- Have an email address and give it out, check email daily
- Important: If your Spanish is not fluent…carry a dictionary.

The most important thing…is that Rome wasn´t built in a day and neither will your house be furnished that quickly. Your new beach residence should be a reflection of your personality and that will probably take a bit of time. Good Luck, and feel free to contact us for information or real estate advice!

Elizabeth Gregg is broker/owner of Elimar Properties in Playa del Carmen.

Contact Elizabeth Greg
View MLS Listings for Elimar Properties in the Riviera Maya

News from the Week Ending 11/17/2006

• Video of First Big Party of the Year
• Top Agent Sells 2 Condos in 1 Day
• New Office Opens in Puerto Morelos
  

Come On Playa Let's Go Party

The TM Real Estate Group from Spain headed by Director Abel Garcia, Manager Joaquin Serna, and Sales Director Miguel Rico presented the first major real estate party of the high season here in Playa del Carmen Mexico. Held last night at the Royal Porto Real Hotel, the packed house sipped cocktails while they learned all about the brand new XCalaCoco Beach Resort development project. "We are ready to sell it" said Ricardo Barton of Riviera Realtors and past President of AMPI.

The coming out party was a major success with the after party held at OM just off 5th avenue. Hey, don't take our word for it. Check out the video. That's right.....instead of showing you a few boring picures, we've created a little fun slideshow video for you to enjoy. Real Estate is a serious business but sometimes are local professionals just gotta get out there and have a cocktail or two. Enjoy!

Watch the XCalaCoco Beach Resort Party Video

XCalaCoco Beach Resort will be posting their listings on MLS 4 Riviera Maya shortly so stay tuned. For more information on this project, contact Miguel Rico via email at marico@tmrealestate.com or at marico@tmgrupoinmobiliario.com

Riviera Maya Agents Visit Bourbon Street
Melissa Correa, owner of Agua Group and Judi Shaw of Remax-Playa hooked up and traveled to New Orleans this past week for 4 days with 25,000 other real estate agents at the National Association of Realtors Convention. "It was amazing" says Judi "so many opportunies, people, things, and yes, job offers too". "Yeah I was able to see and listen to speeches from President George W. Bush and Former President Bill Clinton" Melissa reports. "We were so busy networking, learning...I don't think we slept for 4 days". Tranquila Amigas!

Areas Top Professionals Join MLS 4 Riviera Maya
Ricardo Barton, past President of AMPI Riviera Maya and partner at Riviera Realtors, Denis Couture, an agent who works the Costa Maya, Thomas Lloyd from Playa Realty Executives, Clark Kent of Remax-Playa, Pamela DiOrio from Luna Maya Real Estate, and Greg Czora from Remax-Cozumel have joined MLS 4 Riviera Maya as members this week and began posting their lisitngs. MLS 4 Riviera Maya now has over 340 listings posted and growing by the day. The 90 day free trial offer ends Nov. 30th, so hurry up and sign up to take advantage of this opportunity to join the Fastest Growing Real Estate web site in the Riviera Maya. And Check out our New Listing Just Posted and check out our Top Sales Agents in the Riviera Maya

Playa del Carmen Sales Agent Sells 2 Condos in 1 Day
Irene Soto at One Stop Real Estate reports that they sold 2 Condos in 1 day this week. They are also accepting an offer on a home in the Campestre tomorrow morning. "What a great week it's been" says Irene "Business is booming here at One Stop Real Estate". Congrats Irene!

Top Gun Goes to Las Vegas
Tom Budniak Broker and Owner of Realty Executives of Mexican Caribbean and # 1 rated in search engines for exposure on the search engines www.PlayaRealtyExecutives.com site, will be attending Inman news conference in Las Vegas, Nevada about technology advances in real estate with key note speaker Mr. Brad Inman. Mr.Inman is the founder and publisher for Inman News, one of the real estate industry's leading news and technology resources online.

New Office Opens in Puerto Morelos
Amber Pierce Shultz, owner of Mayan Riviera Properties in Puerto Morelos reports the opening of their brand new office in the town square. "We are sister companies with ITANCAN, an investment and development firm run by Josh Schulz, long time resident in Puerto Morelos" say Amber. "We are both Federally Certified Agents here in the Riviera Maya and we are really getting things moving with a new web site and our brand new office".

Special Thanks to Team Players
MLS 4 Riviera Maya wants to extend a special thanks to Don Rhodes at Caribe Properties and Clark Kent at Remax-Playa for their big suggestins on how to make the MLS site even better. "We implemented their suggestions this week" reports Betty Ontiveros, manager at MLS 4 Riviera Maya. "We've improved our email agent functions and added watermarks on properties that are "sale pending" and "sold". We are doing the little things to make the site even better. Super Duper! Keep the suggestons coming!"

Search Engine Saturation and Link Popularity Ratings Posted

Top 5 Riviera Maya Real Estate Sites Rated by Search Engines Highlighted

by J.P. Money

There problaby is not a definitive "best" web site as most web sites provide information on the Riviera Maya Real Estate Market that buyers can use in a collective fashion. However, we can efficiently rate the web sites in terms of exposure on the search engines. To do this, we used a 3rd party tool from http://www.widexl.com/ that anyone can use. Here's what we found...

Winners! TOP 5 Sites *

1. PlayaRealtyExecutives.com
Links 3972, Pages Indexed 2199, Total 6171

2. MLS4RivieraMaya.com
Links 2869, Pages Indexed 1820, Total 4689

3. RivieraMaya-RealEstate.com
Links 3565, Pages Indexed 426, Total 3991

4. RivieraMayaRealEstateNews.com
Links 1357, Pages Indexed 2335, Total 3692

5. Remax-Playa.com
Links 240, Pages Indexed 2534, Total 2774

Click to View Top 30 Sites

* (as of 11/13/06)

We rated each site in our test for LINK POPULARITY and SEARCH ENGINE SATURATION. We gathered up the the numbers and added them up for total score signifing it's rating. We conducted the test on Monday November 13th between 9am and 10:30am.

For the Link Popularity Test, we omitted the links that are included within the domain of the site we are checking. This action eliminates self links so that we get a more accurate picture as to the real number of links that other sites post for the site in question.

For the test, we only used sites that predominately promote real estate in the Riviera Maya and not other locations. In other words, if the site just has posted some real estate in the Riviera Maya and mainly promoted other areas or even tours, news, and things in addition to real estate, they were not considered exclusive for Riviera Maya Real Estate and thus were not rated.

Link Popularity Check Test Explained

Widexl designed their link popularity tool for anyone to check link popularity from websites. The Link Popularity analysis script searches Google, AltaVista, MSN, HotBot, Lycos to determine how many pages are linking to the web page. Many search engines today are ranking web sites by the number of sites linking to them. Link Popularity analysis is also important for a high keyword search engines page ranking and PageRank. Take a link popularity analysis and check your link popularity against that from your competitors.

Click here to take the LINK POPULARITY TEST - http://www.widexl.com/remote/link-popularity/index.html

Search Engine Saturation Test Explained

Search Engine Saturation refers to the number of pages from your website domain a search engine has indexed on the search engines.

Click here to tak the SEARCH ENGINE SATURATION TEST - http://www.widexl.com/remote/search-engines/saturation.html

* Disclaimer: Remember the net is a living thing and keeps moving. Thus, your results will differ slightly over the posted results. That is very normal. The writer of this article is the host of Let's Talk Real Estate Podcast and is related to the owners of MLS 4 Riviera Maya and Riviera Maya Real Estate News. The results were taken 100% from www.widexl.com.

Okay, so what do you think about this test? What are your conclusions? We invite you to Post your opinions into our Riviera Maya Real Estate Forum and gives us your feedback. Which sites do you like the most? And Why?

A Weekly Update on What's Happening in our Community and Market Area

- TM Real Estate Group is inviting all brokers and agents to the launch of one of the most important real estate new projects on the Riviera Maya, the XCALACOCO BEACH RESORT just north of Playa del Carmen. The resort is offering a unique Private Residence Club plan for buyers. There are 265 new residences starting for sale next week. The event takes place on Thursday November 16th at 6pm at the Porto Real Hotel on Avenida Contituyentes in Playa del Carmen. All brokers and agents are invited. MLS 4 Riviera Maya will be there. For more information, contact Director of Sales Miguel Angel Rico at marico@tmrealestate.com

- Judi Shaw of Remax Playa is off to New Orleans to attend the National Association of Realtors conference for 3 days. There will be 65,000 attendees and 10,000 exhibitors on the expo floor demonstrating the latest in technology for our industry, new projects world wide developers, Exposes for different countries. "Its a great place to network" says Judi. The conference is packed with educational classes such as marketing resort and luxury real estate world wide, training on ethics, business building techniques and much more than we can describe here. It is a great occasion to improve grow and learn what buyers and sellers want in a realtor ....

- Shawn Bandick at One Stop Real Estate reports that his office is cramming to close and finish paperwork for all deals before Dec. 12th. "The City Offices will be closing for the holidays and we must get stuff in before they shut down for the holidays. Its crazy busy here" reports Shawn.

- One Stop Real Estate has sponsored the local Youth American Football League in Playa del Carmen. The Playa del Carmen Caballeros play teams from Cancun and Merida. With over 10 club teams in the league with several divisions, American Football is growing and with community support from our Real Estate Community, the sport keeps growing. The Midget team is undefeated in league play this year and has taken the more established teams by surprise. Ricardo Penkoff (14), son of Jorge Penkoff, partner at One Stop Real Estate is the Quarterback for the team and Riley Bandick (13), plays fullback and defensive lineman as part of the # 1 rated defense in the league. Jorge Penkoff says "The kids learn how to play within a team working for a goal while they have fun. It's great fun and we can instill values of cooperation, teamwork, and hard work by supporting youth sports"

- Bill Morales at Cozumel Living reports "I can’t believe we're at a tourist resort. Its so peaceful!" said Charles and Kate Green as we toured an ocean view lot, with a two floor, one bedroom studio, on a 650 sq meter land, with lush vegetation surrounding the perfectly trimmed lawn, located in downtown Cozumel just a block from the main avenue and the turqoise blue sea. They finally found what they had always wished. Home away from home. Only $ 190,000 usd! The Hartzog family are already packing and getting ready to come next summer when they will receive their brand new oceanfront, two bedroom condo just sold for $ 300,000. The day after we were told by the constructor prices had increased 15%. The Hartzogs realized they had not only bought a wonderful vacation home but also made the best investment ever. We are having busy and exiting days" says Bill Morales – Sales Agent and MLS 4 Riviera Maya Member.

- Conficasa Playa reports that commercial loan activity has really increased over the last month. They have formed an alliance with several banks and private investors in the US and their clients are happy with the results. "We now have outlets for Hotel Loans and Commercial Development Loans as well as short term Bridge Loans. We received term sheets for two clients this week and expect more in the near future. Our lenders will consider Commercial Loan requests as low as $1,000,000" says Manager Tom Martin.

- This week, MLS 4 Riviera Maya welcomed new members Sally Wood Evans of Coldwell Banker, Pamela DiOrio of Luna Maya Real Estate in Akumal, Clark Kent Race of Remax Playa, and Ricardo Barton of Riviera Realtors to it's growing list of brokers and agents who post their listings on the web site engine. With over 300 listings already posted within the last 45 days and over 4000 links with over 4000 pages indexed (http://www.widexl.com), MLS and Riviera Maya Real Estate News are the fastest growing sites in the Riviera Maya.

This Week in Riviera Maya Real Estate is posted every Friday Night. If you have news you want us to promote, you must email it to us no later than 5pm each Friday to jp@mls4rivieramaya.com. Articles and their links are posted on Riviera Maya Real Estate News and the MLS 4 Riviera Maya Blog. In addition, it is emailed to all on our newsletter list

And the Adventure Begins

A Buyers Perspective

by Dave Trahan

For about the last six or seven years, my wife and I had been dreaming of owning a condominium or villa in or around Playa del Carmen. Finally, last August, the stars were aligned and our dream became a reality. We were able to buy a brand new, unfinished condominium in Playacar. My wife who is quite a talented decorator, would be able to furnish the condo to her liking and before we knew it, we would be all settled in. We live in Troy, Michigan and figured furniture shopping would be much the same in Playa del Carmen as it was at home. If not, we certainly could order over the phone from the likes of Pottery Barn and have the furniture delivered to Mexico. Boy, were we in for a surprise!

I volunteered to start checking with folks on the various Playa forums to see where we should go to outfit our new home. I figured that at the very worst, one or two store stops would be all that would be required and we would be done. No wasting valuable vacation time running around from store to store for these smart shoppers!

While I was able to glean some useful information from the forums, the information I was getting was that outfitting a condo was no easy or quick matter. One store stocks sofas, another chairs and so on. Delivery dependability depended on the store and the quality of the furniture also varied greatly. Finally, Susan of One Stop Realty in Playa del Carmen sent me a note and said she had just heard of a new company called Gringo Furniture that offered online shopping for furniture in Mexico. Susan didn't know much about the company but I decided to give it a try since I did not want to spend the next four of five vacation weeks running around Playa furniture shopping.

I believe that my wife and I were one of Gringo's first customers. I went to the website and was amazed at the wide selection of furniture that was available to view online. Color pictures, measurements, options and price were right there on my computer screen. The prices seemed reasonable - much more reasonable than many of the prices I had seen in Playa or Cancun. We had our choice of four color finishes and also had the option of having the furniture varnished. The furniture was solid wood meaning no veneers to warp in the humidity. There were many different designs and some were more rustic than others. Delivery was promised in four to six weeks. This all seemed too good to be true.

Gringo Furniture was a total unknown to us. We went through the catalog and picked out furniture for our three bedrooms, our patio and our living room. We then decided on color tones and then added up the prices. Much to my delight, the total sum was well within our budget so the only problem left was did we want to deal with (and pay) a totally unknown entity. I corresponded with the owner Karen a couple of times and found her most helpful and responsive. I am a bit more of a gambler than my wife and finally persuaded her to let me go forward with our furniture nest egg.

We placed our order and paid for the furniture in advance. If the furniture was delivered as promised, it would arrive one week before our next planned week in Playa. Karen called a couple of time with questions and provided status reports a couple of times too.

We arrived in Playa as scheduled. Our furniture had been delivered as scheduled. All of the furniture was extensively wrapped in protective paper to prevent any nicks or other damage. The furniture was EXACTLY as represented. We were very pleased with the quality and the finishes. As an example, our patio furniture was very similar (but better quality) to a set we saw in Playa and was about one-half the cost. The mattresses were in protective plastic enclosures and were very comfortable - unlike many mattresses in Mexico. It is obvious that the furniture maker ( unknown to me) takes great pride in his products and workmanship. We were very pleased. Friends who stopped by commented on what nice furniture we had obtained. All in all, it was a very pleasant experience. It was also very affordable!

If there was a downside - and there always is- it was that we could not purchase all of our furniture from Gringo. We needed sleeper sofa's and the few Gringo had did not appeal to either my wife or I. Some of the furniture was a bit more rustic than we were looking for so again certain pieces were purchased elsewhere. I did not ask for the furniture to be unwrapped and set-up and Karen admitted it never occurred to her to ask if we wanted that service. I am told by Karen that a wider selection of furniture styles will be offered and that set-up services will be offered. Honestly, those are my only "complaints" and let's face it, they are not really complaints. Would I do business with Gringo again? Yes I would and have in fact recommended Gringo to many similarly situated friends. My wife even said she wanted to buy a patio set for our house in Michigan until I explained some of the import/export issues.

Go to the website gringofurniture.com and look around. Ask questions and feel safe making payments. An online furniture store is a service that was needed in Mexico and Gringo is making it happen.

Costa Maya: The Latest Buzz In Mexico Real Estate Investment

By Christine Harrell

You've seen pre-planned suburban communities-now imagine a pre-planned 57 mile long strip of Caribbean coastal paradise. Just as planned communities are built with the purpose of providing the ideal suburban living atmosphere, the Mexican government has plans for the Costa Maya to become the next great ecotourism spot in the Caribbean. Similar project in Cancun and Playa del Carmen have already proven wildly successful for both Mexican tourism and real estate investors. Already in the early stages of the game, the Costa Maya is showing all signs of the same level of success.

The reason that this picture perfect tropical paradise has remained untouched by human development for so long is that prior to the government renovation there were no area-wide resources such as electricity and sewage. Like other now popular places in Mexico, what was needed to spark growth was a government initiative to bring power, water, sewer, and telephones to the entire area. Banks in Mexico don't provide generous, low interest loans for property as they do in the US, meaning that most of the population was unable to afford the land or develop on it. Today, the Costa Maya is the last 57 mile stretch of virgin Caribbean coastal property anywhere in the world.

For investors, the fact that this project is currently in its infancy means massive opportunity in terms of Mexico real estate investment. Plots of raw, Caribbean beachfront property that are today selling for around $60,000 are expected to reach the $1million dollar mark in 15-20 years. Like Cancun where property values rivaled that of the average American car just 30 years ago, the Costa Maya region needed only a kick start to begin its surge or growth.

It's not common in real estate investment to come across so much undeveloped territory-especially untouched, coastal property on the romanticized Caribbean Sea. To put things into perspective, the Costa Maya has more miles of beachfront than Orange County in California and just 13 fewer miles of beachfront than Los Angeles County. Such types of real estate investment opportunities are no longer available on the densely populated coast of the United States. When it comes to Mexico real estate investment, the opportunity to own a residential beachfront lot in a developing area is, for now, still a real opportunity.

In just the past several years since the government put its revitalization project into action, the price of real estate in the Costa Maya has already doubled. Those keen on the trends of Mexico real estate investment got in early, but with so much raw and undeveloped land, there still remain pristine coastal lots up for grabs. High end resorts and businesses have already begun to crop up around Majahual, a once sleepy fishing village just north of Belize.

Additionally, cruise ships are porting in Majahual, the road running south from Cancun has been repaved and the local airport has been renovated. Now flights come in directly to Majahual from Cancun, meaning the once four hour drive south from Cancun is just a short plane ride. It's not only Mexico real estate investment that is exploding here. Entrepreneurs that want to tap into this growing tourism hot spot can pick and choose a slice of the market right now in this early stage of development. A Mexico real estate investment in the Costa Maya means essentially following the investment strategy of the Mexican government and it's proven success in building entire, thriving tourism centers from the ground-up.

SEARCH MLS 4 RIVIERA MAYA LISTINGS FOR THE COSTA MAYA


Original Article Posted at
http://www.nextarticles.com/article25523.html

Recently, I have received word that certain web sites are copying listings from MLS and other sites that have permission to post those listings on the net.

AMPI Riviera Maya, our local real estate organization, is concerned that members sites are being violated by these pirates. Allegedly, pirates are posting listings that belong to members exclusively and putting their own contact information on the listing. So that when the prospect finds the listing and makes contact, they are in fact, contacting the pirate instead of the agent. The agent then works to spin them off into some other property that they can show or present. If that does not work, they usually tell them that said property is sold and moves on. The pirates are using this technique to get new prospects off the back of the hard work of AMPI Riviera Maya's members.

AMPI Riviera Maya is taking a serious look at this issue. Action may follow shortly.

According the the DIGITAL MILENIUM COPYRIGHT ACT, copyright Infringement is NOW against the law on the internet and enforceable. The violated can easily get the offenders site shut down.

All it takes it to file a legitimate complaint with the offenders ISP and ICANN. This action will get their shut down and their domain names taken away.

In order to have an allegedly infringing website removed from a service provider's network, or have access to an allegedly infringing website disabled, the copyright owner must provide notice to the service provider with the following information:

1. The name, address, and physical or electronic signature of the complaining party [512(c)(3)(A)(i)]
2. Identification of the infringing materials and their Internet location [512(c)(3)(A)(ii-iii)], or if the service provider is an "information location tool" such as a search engine, the reference or link to the infringing materials [512(d)(3)].
Sufficient information to identify the copyrighted works [512(c)(3)(A)(iv)].
3. A statement by the copyright holder of a good faith belief that there is no legal basis for the use complained of [512(c)(3)(A)(v)].
4. A statement of the accuracy of the notice and, under penalty of perjury, that the complaining party is authorized to act on the behalf of the copyright holder [512(c)(3)(A)(vi)].
5. A service provider is not required to respond to a DMCA notice that does not contain substantially all of these elements.


* MLS 4 Riviera Maya and Riviera Maya Real Estate News suppports a strong market with rules for all.

SOURCES
ICANN
WORLD INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ORGANIZATION
DIGITAL MILENIUM COPYRIGHT ACT -
CHILLING EFFECTS

Local Professional Clarifies the Issues between Capital Gains and the New Mortgage Financing Opportunities

By Shawn Bandick

Hello Everyone. It has been a while since I have made the time to write an article. Now be sure it is not that I didn’t have anything to write about! On the contrary it is completely the opposite, there is just so much to say.

Today let’s touch on two major topics Mortgages, Capital Gains Tax.

I am seeing confusion among the buyers, about mortgages. Let me give you the straight scoop as of today. In many cases the consumer is hearing, yes you can get a loan and then the confusion starts. It is such a different market here that the consumer wouldn’t even think of all the challenges they may face in getting a loan here in Mexico. Now don’t get me wrong there are some great loan brokers out there who will do everything they can to help you, but getting the loan might only be part of the challenge. After your approval you have to find the acceptable property with a flexible seller. Also please be aware financing may be easier and more established in other areas of Mexico out side of Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya.

First let’s be clear on what properties you can get a loan on. This is a changing part of the puzzle and I’m sure in the near future more options will be available but right now it is unlikely that you will be able to get a loan for commercial investment, rental property (apartment Building) or raw land. I know some lenders are very close to having construction loans available and are working on options as we speak. Now if you want to buy a family vacation home or condo then you have a good chance to get financing. Take note you are going to need to pick a property that has all the city paperwork ready. What does that mean? Well it means that new construction or preconstruction will not have all the final paper work registered with the city including individual title. So you need to choose a condo or house that is not new and has all the title work in place already. Sometimes we find people selling houses that they have had for years and they never went through the title process! This is not so unusual here but it will be a problem for your finance company. Also most lenders do not want to hear that you intend to rent this property out. The challenge here is that it now sounds like a rental investment and they want it to be your second home. Most are okay if you say you may have some incidental rental when your family and friends are not using it, that’s easy!

Let’s talk about sellers. Suppose you find just the right property. Well you may still have some challenges with the seller. Why is that? Well the government is getting stronger on collecting Capital gains tax. The seller may not want to put the full selling price on the paperwork otherwise he will get hit with a substantial capital gains tax. Unfortunately everyone seems to have their own point of view on this and I have seen first hand where sellers will wait for the cash buyer so they can make their own deal.

Now let’s say you make your purchase. How will you set yourself up so you don’t pay any more capital gains tax than you have to? At the time of this writing here’s what you as a foreigner have to do. When you purchase your property you apply for an FM3 as a retiree or an investor. On the FM3 you have your new property address as your residence here in Mexico. You have your contract of sale, your trust, your Fm3, and all your bills with your name and the property address on them. Then, as of the law today, when you sell (minimum of two years latter) you can show all this information and you will not have to pay capital gains. I know it sounds like a lot, but like anywhere investment property pays capital gains and your resident may not if you qualify for an exemption so take the time to set it up properly in the beginning.

That’s it in a nut shell.

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Shawn Bandick is originally from Canada, a published author, and owns One Stop Real Estate (www.onestopmc.com). He can be reached by email at shawn@onestopmc.comThis email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it or by phone at +52(984)100-5016 mobile 984 803 3739 office

Click and View Shawn Bandicks MLS Listings

What is the Fideicomiso?

by Bob McCain

The "fideicomiso" is set up through a Mexican bank for a period of up to 50 years and can be renewed for 50 years. To acquire the land the purchaser must obtain a permit from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The buyer can lease, sell or transfer the property to another family member, and if he dies, his property can be passed to an heir.

In the trust there are three elements: The trust Settlor (Fideicomitente) which may be a physical or legal Mexican person, who is the owner of the property which is to be placed in trust; the Trustee (Fiduciario) which, by law may be only a credit institution and which holds the raw real estate; and the Beneficiaries (Fideicomisarios) the legal or physical foreign persons who are the beneficiaries of the trust who obtain the use and benefit of the property.

The bank (known as the trustee) holds the trust deed (known as the escritura) for the person or persons purchasing the property (known as the beneficiaries). This property is not part of the bank's assets and cannot be subject to any lien or attachment for any bank obligations. The beneficiary has all ownership rights to the property and may sell, lease, mortgage or pass on to their heirs as desired under law. A bank trust is not a lease.

The Mexican government established the trust agreement as a way of protecting foreigners interested in owning property in Mexico. The reasoning was that by making ownership pass through the trust process, there would be an automatic review of the transaction to ensure it was legal and unencumbered. The bank is required to check ownership, insurance and indebtedness of the property, providing further protection to the foreign owner.

Trusts are renewable at any time by filling out a simple application with the bank. It was never the intent that these properties pass back to the government at the end of the trust period. This is a common misconception and fear of most buyers. It may help in understanding the Bank Trust to compare it with the Deed of Trust, a type of financing instrument used in the U.S. People who buy homes, paying the full amount upfront, receive their titles right away. However, this rarely happens. Under a deed of trust the buyer of a house has only "equitable title," or an equity interest, with the right to use but only a restricted right to sell, until the loan is paid off, after which the owner receives the actual fee simple title. Until then it is held by a trustee, usually a bank or title company. In Mexico the Bank Trust is also held by a trustee, but the buyer never receives the actual title. Realistically many homeowners in the U.S. never receive title to their properties either, because they sell or refinance their homes before the 30-year term of their loan is complete.


Bob McCain is the owner/broker at Caribe Properties in Playa del Carmen Mexico.

* Bob McCain's MLS Listings
* Contact Bob McCain
* Caribe Properties Web Site

IT HELPS TO HAVE THE TECHNOLOGY!

Scott Colemere of Colemere Realty Associates, Salt Lake City, UT attended the seminar I did for the Salt Lake Board recently. He sent along this anecdote:

"Thanks for a great seminar last Thursday and Friday in Salt Lake City. You asked me to send you an email to share with your newsletter readers and students detailing my experiences using technology in the Real Estate business.

"I was sitting in your class enjoying your discussion on using technology, and just as you held up your PDA phone to show the class, I received an email on my combo PDA phone. It was a referral from another agent for a buyer in the area. I would not have otherwise received and responded to the request without the speed and convenience of the mobile technology you were suggesting that each student own. I just wanted to let you know that I am a true believer in the use of technology that one understands and uses, and I appreciate your efforts to educate the industry to its value."

I love Scott's story, as it points out the value of using today's technology. This might be a good time to list for you the top 10 moneymaking tech tools used by my CyberStars®, and for you to take stock of how many you use in your business!

Here, in order of their money-making ability, are the top 10 tech tools my CyberStars® use:

Personal Web site
Notebook or tablet pc
Real estate specific database
VisualTour.com
Digital camera
PDA (Personal Digital Assistant)
Blogs & pod casts
AgencyLogic Power Sites
Imprev.com
SettlementRoom.com
IF you don't have these..private coaching. One-on-one, build your business.

CYBERSTARS

MLS Riviera Maya
Property Search for Real Estate in the Riviera Maya of Mexico
Source: www.mls4rivieramaya.com

Buying Property in Mexico
Rules and regulations for foreigners to buy real estate in Mexico.
Source: www.mexonline.com

Real Estate Press
Category: New Mexico > Las Cruces > Real Estate
Source: www.repress.com

Mexico Real Estate Boom, it is safe? - Mexico Real Estate
The realty options in mexico are an affordable hacienda on the Pacific or Sea of … Mexico Realestate, is it safe? San Felipe Real Estate. Mexico Property Titles …
Source: www.mexicomatters.net

Find Realestate In New Mexico Albuquerque In Legal Category at EasternCorner.com
Listing include realestate in New Mexico Albuquerque in Legal Category,law firm, law office, law enforcement, legal terms, law dictionary, family law etc.
Source: www.easterncorner.com

New Mexico Real Estate Agents, REALTORS, New Mexico Homes For Sale and Property Values
… home values and local information for New Mexico home buyers and sellers … Our free real estate services feature all New Mexico counties and cities. …
Source: www.homegain.com

Cozumel Mexico Vacation Rentals
Cozumel Mexico Vacation Rentals … Cozumel, Mexico, luxurious private … Vacation Rentals | Real Estate For Sale | Place Ad | Mexico-RealEstate.com …
Source: www.hcstucson.com

It’s 6:30am, Saturday Morning in Playa del Carmen Mexico. It's a bit cloudy outside but it's super sunny inside! What do I mean?

Well, today is the day we go over 300 listings.

Yeah, we have 297 listings posted right now. So yeah, I am sure of it. Each day, real estate sales agents post more listings and everyday we get inquiries from Riviera Maya brokers and sales agents who want to join and are joining. It’s all very exciting frankly.

I think MLS 4 Rivera Maya has truly provided a solution for both buyers and sellers that really works. It’s just all very exciting. We really think that by the end of the year, MLS 4 Rivera Maya will have over 500 real estate sales and rental listings if not more and have listings in the thousands by 1st Quarter 2007. With our growing market, that is extremely reasonable.

In fact, TM Real Estate Group, a huge residenial developer in Spain, will be posting over 100 listings this month alone as they release their big project of condos in Playa del Carmen. Yeah, Miguel Angel Rico, Director of Sales, was in our offices this week learning all about how to use MLS to his advantage. They are building over 250 condo units in Playa del Carmen to be released in phases. Of course, we will run the story. He invited us to his grand opening on Nov. 16th at the Royal Gran Porto Real. So we hope to see all of you there.

Oh, and Sally Wood Evans from Coldwell Banker in Puerto Aventuras is signing up this week and so much more. So yeah, we are excited. But let’s take one step at a time. For now, Let’s go 300! Bring it on!

Bric, an International Real Estate company, has provided “Mexico vacation homes” and real estate investments to international buyers since 2004.

Some people have wanted to purchase a real estate property in Mexico, Central America, or the Caribbean, but were too afraid of what it might involve? Bric International can help them own a dream vacation home, and they will make it as easy a process as possible.

Bric, an International Real Estate company, has provided Mexico vacation homes and real estate investments to international buyers since 2004. Bric International is now offering beautiful real estate properties in countries such as: Dominican Republic, Belize, Honduras, Costa Rica, Panama, and more.

Randy Bonds of Bric International has this to add, “As you all know, BRIC International LLC is a relatively new and growing real estate company. We are very serious about the responsibility for the care of your home, real estate investment and guests while you are away. BRIC International has the main intention of helping international investors and homebuyers through every step of purchasing properties in Mexico. Now, we carry on that very same intention to our new real estate properties in Central America, Dominican Republic and the Caribbean. This starts at the first phone call or e-mail all the way through closing and turning your investment into either a full-time or vacation residence, or income vehicle.”

Randy Bonds of Bric International has this to add, “As you all know, BRIC International LLC is a relatively new and growing real estate company. We are very serious about the responsibility for the care of your home, real estate investment and guests while you are away. BRIC International has the main intention of helping international investors and homebuyers through every step of purchasing properties in Mexico. Now, we carry on that very same intention to our new real estate properties in Central America, Dominican Republic and the Caribbean. This starts at the first phone call or e-mail all the way through closing and turning your investment into either a full-time or vacation residence, or income vehicle.”

International “Real Estate” is one of the most exciting investments one can make, and it should be a fun and rewarding experience. At BricInternational.com people will find everything you’ll need to buy or sell an international home, as well as learn about the specific market values of international homes they may own in any of their specialized areas.

BRIC International provides complete top-notch international real estate services for investors and homebuyers. BRIC has a complete inventory of real estate property and provides assistance with mortgage services and escrow services for investment properties. All this along with great customer support - a combination that can’t be beat.

Through their commitment, experience, and expertise, BRIC International has established a business relationship with their customers that will surely last a lifetime.


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Click here and View All Bric International Listings on MLS 4 Riviera Maya

Attention Agents Get More Prospects Now!

High Season is Here! Get Ready for the Rush

Our high season is the Riviera Maya in Mexico is here. As we approach, it’s mission critical for Real Estate Sales Agents to be positioned for success, not only for themselves, but more importantly for their clients and prospects. At RMRE, we offer 4 simple value added keys that will catapult Real Estate Sales Agents on the net and into the marketplace where their prospects can easily find them. Here they are:

THE 4 KEYS TO GETTING NEW PROSPECTS WITH RMRE AND MLS

KEY # 1

BECOME A MEMBER OF MLS 4 RIVIERA MAYA
With a strong economy of scale, over 1500 pages indexed, and 2000 web links and growing fast, MLS 4 Riviera Maya is ranking high on Yahoo, MSN, and Google and getting in front of the American and Canadian target market. MLS 4 Riviera Maya gets results simply because prospects can search one place and find more listings in the Riviera Maya than any other web site on the net. It’s just simple math. With more agents and listings coming each day, the site is clearly becoming a very important place for agents to post listings and get prospects. It’s easy, simple, and fast. Prospects click on your listing and email you direct. It’s free for 90 days and then just $ 29 usd per month for unlimited postings. You can cancel at any time during the 90 day trial period with no financial obligation. Give it a try and become a member now!

KEY # 2

POST AN INFORMATIVE ARTICLE EVERY MONTH ON OUR SITES
Free to all members of MLS 4 Riviera Maya, you can submit your article once per month and have it posted on Riviera Maya Real Estate News and the MLS Blog. At the end of each article, we will add your MLS listings and contact information. This will create you even more prospects as readers who find your articles informative will contact you for even more service. The article can be 4 or 5 paragraphs. Please make it about a real estate issue that provides the reader with informative beneficial information that will help them be even better buyers and watch your prospects grow. Make it about an issue in your area of expertise and concern in your market area. Just send your email and pictures to jp@mls4rivieramaya.comThis email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it.

KEY # 3

POST IN OUR RIVIERA MAYA REAL ESTATE NEWS FORUM
Once a week, simply post a message in our Real Estate for Riviera Maya News Forum. Sign up is Free to all By posting your your thoughts or replies to what posters place in our forum, at the very least you will be getting a one way link back to your web site. At the very best, readers will contact you from your posts for service. It’s another great way to get even more prospects. Make sure that once you sign up, you edit your profile and your signature so that your email, phone numbers, and web site address automatically appear on your posts. All posts are registered by the search engines and thus, posting on forums adds value to your net marketing. So Go For It!

KEY # 4

APPEAR ON OUR PODCAST RADIO SHOW
We have a show called LETS TALK REAL ESTATE that present the issues to listeners all over the world. Marketed on our sites along with ITunes, Yahoo Podcast, and Podcast Pickle, our show is unique to our area and unique in Mexico. Its cutting edge stuff that will help you stand out from the rest.

It’s all over the place. People from all over the world click and listen to our shows. To get on, simply make an appointment with us. Our studio is in Playa del Carmen. It’s easy. You just appear on the show and discuss the issues in real estate with our host. That’s it! At the end of the show we give out your contact information. The show remains on the net always! It’s free to all members of MLS 4 Riviera Maya.

Take these 4 steps and you will dramatically increase your online presence. More, prospects will come to you from our target market, not only now but as the future of the net continues it’s march forward, you will be entrenched with us as we together add value to our rich and prosperous marketplace.

Attention Sales Agents, Click Here and Join MLS 4 Riviera Maya Now

MLS 4 Riviera Maya Takes Off

New Property Search Engine Fills in the Gap and Provides Real Solutions for Prospects Worldwide

MLS 4 Riviera Maya, the new property search engine at www.mls4rivieramay.com has taken off. After just 2 full months on the internet, MLS is already the # 1 site for real estate property listings site in english on the internet with over 280 listings and 19 agents from many different brokers posting their property listings.

Open to all area Brokers, Agents, and even For Sale by Owners, MLS 4 Riviera Maya offers sellers an economy of scale and net marketing opportunies that no other real estate site can offer. With over 1600 pages indexed on the search engines and over 2000 links, MLS 4 Riviera Maya and it's news and information sister site at Riviera Maya Real Estate News is already in the top 10 of real estate web sites for the Riviera Maya and is poised to be number 1 within a few months. "With the number of listings growing daily and our content, our sites are simply growing faster than any one broker can grow their site. The reason is content" says says Betty Ontiveros, Operations Manager at MLS 4 Riviera Maya.

"MLS provides the window for buyers from the U.S.A., Canada, and elsewhere to really take a peek into our market and see what is going on" says Ontiveros. "The feedback has been fantastic".

MLS 4 Riviera Maya expects to have over 500 property listings in the Riviera Maya of Mexico by the end of December and over 1000 listings posted by the 1st Quarter of 2007.

MLS 4 Riviera Maya provides a real chance for users to come in and search one place to find their properties. MLS is super excited about putting buyers and sellers together in one place. They are committed in making this MLS a valuable addition to the real estate marketplace.

With market Leaders signed up eg… Tom Budniak of Realty Executives, Judi Shaw of Remax Playa, Randy Bonds of Bric International, Bob McCain of Caribe Properties, Melissa Correa of Aqua Group, Shawn Bandick, Jorge Penkoff, and Irene Soto of One Stop Real Estate, Matt Craig of Acanto, Nancy Edwards of Cozumel Living, Bjoern Koch of The Tides, Amber Pierce Shultz of Mayan Riviera Properties, Bill Rau of Mexira, Brad Ryan of MM Realty, and more coming in fast, MLS 4 Riviera Maya is on it's way.

"It's a real solution and added value for all" says Chris Rauton of American Development in Playa del Carmen. "This is great!"

Open to all brokers, agents, and even For Sale by Owners, MLS 4 Riviera Maya offers a 90 day free trial offer to all brokers and agents to post their listings, all their listings. Then it's just $ 29.00 usd per month to keep the membership going. "There is no where on the net where we can get so much exposure for such a inexpensive rate" says Shawn Bandick of One Stop Real Estate.

MLS 4 Riviera Maya is already a player in the market and is poised to be a market leader on the net. With over 1500 pages indexed on the search engines and over 2000 links with other web sites, MLS 4 Riviera Maya is growing fast and there is no stopping it. "This idea is growing fast and filling the need for the market. Thanks MLS" says Brad Ryan of MM Realty

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Join MLS and Post Your Listings Now

Search For Your Dream Property Now

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If you have any questions, comments, or issues contact MLS 4 Riviera Maya at info@mls4rivieramaya.com