May -Jun 2007 by ADIP

RealEstate MAY/JUNE 2007

another day in paradise

another day in paradise magazine, where real estate is bought and sold in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, MĂŠxico

Home & Garden Design - Real Estate News - Real Estate Law - Real Estate Finance - Real Estate Listings

MAY/JUNE 2007

RealEstate another day in

paradise another day in

EDITOR - PUBLISHER

Catherine Krantz info@adip.info COLUMNISTS - CONTRIBUTORS

John Glaab Linda Neil Maru Pinto de Carraza Marc Pouliot DESIGN

6 Profiles Architect Luis Treviño Perez Gil 12 Great Renovations

Let there be light in Ixtapa

Jorge Luis Delgado picassojld@hotmail.com jorge@adip.info Tel. (755) 554-6525 Cel. (755)104-5057 WEB DESIGN & HOSTING Zihrena Sistems La Ropa, Zihuatanejo webmaster@zihua-ixtapa.com (755) 554-0719 ADVERTISING INQUIRIES (755) 554-6525 and (755) 544-8023 spaces are limited, deadline for materials and payments is the 1st of the month previous info@adip.info

18 Real Estate Law

Condominium Living 24 Real Estate News

Home Show Habitat Expo – DF 25 Real Estate News

Mint Cancun Wrap-Up 26 Real Estate Listings

For Sale, For Rent 30 Classifieds & Resources

SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES Check out our web page for more info: www.adip.info WE WELCOME ARTICLE & PHOTOGRAPH SUBMISSIONS info@adip.info FOR GUIDELINES

ON THE COVER: CLUB INTRA WEST PLAYA LA ROPA

www.adip.info

Architectural & Interior Design: Luis Alberto Trevi単o Perez Gil Text: Catherine Krantz Photography: Marc Pouliot

xtapa-Zihuatanejo based Architect Luis Treviño Perez Gil gained international visibility when he recently designed and built a Zihuatanejo apartment for Robert Marshall, an Urban Planner with one of the largest international architectural, urban design and interior design firms in the world, and his partner, Producer Marc Pouliot. They decided to buy in Zihuatanejo after 12 years of renting in Troncones. “Although we love the laid-back character of Tronconces and the beauty of staying on the beach, the travel distance and inconvenience of maintaining an open, beachfront property made us consider the advantages of purchasing in Zihuatanejo,” said Marshall, “We were also blessed with the opportunity to stay often at a friend’s house in Zihuatanejo beside the mirador on Avenida Escenica La Ropa, and we eventually realized that we preferred being in town.” “It was obvious that given our very busy lives and extensive international travel schedule,” he added, “being in town was a simpler solution as absentee owners. Plus we really grew to love being in Zihuatanejo. It’s a great town with great services and an authentic Mexican character, unlike many resort communities.” Trevino mentioned that Pouliot is an extraordinary cuisinier and being close to the mercado was also an important part of the decision to purchase in Zihuatanejo. “When you entertain a lot,” said Pouliot, “the many long trips between Troncones and Zihuatanejo required for food shopping, becomes a chore and a burden.” After buying an unfinished condo in Casa Que Ve Al Mar, Marshall and Pouliot decided against the typical “funky Mexican” style most common

Zihuatanejo is one of the few places in the world where it is possible to live virtually out-of-doors.

with foreign owners and created a very modern, contemporary pied-à-terre for themselves. “As designers, our tastes tend towards a modern aesthetic. The building exterior itself fits with the local architectural vernacular, but we wanted to create a modern “white box” within the arches and natural stucco finishes of the exterior,” said Pouliot, “Luis understood our objectives for the home and helped develop and define the modern aesthetic.” At the outset of the project, Marshall and Pouliot invited Trevino to come to their home-base in Canada to see first-hand the architectural detailing in their recently renovated principal residence and other architectural references in the city. “The opportunity to visit the client in Toronto was a great help in understanding their expectations in terms of architectural details,

character and quality,” said Trevino, “It also helped me understand how they lived and their priorities for the home.” One of the things the clients have learned from the experience of staying in many different beachfront properties and in traveling to the area at all times of the year is that Zihuatanejo is one of the few places in the world where it is possible to live virtually out-of-doors. “All you really need is some shade and a breeze to be perfectly comfortable – the last thing we wanted was to travel from Toronto to sit in an air conditioned box,” said Marshall, “We set it as a basic design objective to allow the apartment to open up completely to the outside allowing for complete cross-ventilation and unobstructed views.” All doors and windows are designed to slide out of sight when the apartment is occupied. The main living areas extend to a covered terrace and are protected by a system of weather blinds, that roll up into the ceiling when the apartment is occupied. The apartment is simple, elegant and very comfortable. Treviño developed a palette of shades with white walls, dark millwork and off-white marble floors. The apartment is meant to be a neutral backdrop to a display of vibrant modern artwork, Mexican crafts, and brightly colored fabrics. Assembling the many fixtures and finishes to complete the apartment was a research task assumed by both Trevino and his clients. “Luis located many of the finishes, fixtures and furnishings in Mexico including the custom-built kitchen cabinetry, kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures and Mexican marble flooring and tiles,” said Marshall, “We were able to work with

my company’s Mexico City office to locate a Brazilian granite to finish the built-in cabinetry and furnishings.” Loose furnishings were acquired or custom-made by local shops Ixtapa Décore and Cali. Italian hardware, special fixtures, small appliances and other furnishings and household items were purchased in Toronto, Mexico City, Morelia and Acapulco. “Working with Luis was a pleasure,” said Marshall and Pouliot, “He is very talented and definitely has a promising career ahead of him. We are very proud to have been a part of his early years.” Treviño also enjoyed working with these clients as their international connections gave him access to, and information about, resources, materials and fixtures not available locally. About the Architect: Luis Alberto Treviño Perez Gil was born in Morelia and studied architecture at the Universitad Autonoma de Guadalajara. After working as an architect in Morelia from 1993 to 2002, Treviño moved to Ixpapa and has been working locally ever since. He has completed several successful projects in both Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo and is now busy with many new projects in the area. For more information contact Luis Treviño Perez Gil, Los Arcos Loc. 3, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, 40880 Gerrero, Mexico. Tel. 755-553 1442, e-mail: luistrevinopg@yahoo.com.mx ��

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Renovation and Interior Design, and Photography: Maru Pinto de Caraza Text: Catherine Krantz

earching for your dream home and still haven’t found what you‘re looking for? One couple who were not ready to take on the task of building a home decided to make-do with what they had found, and make it their own. Renovating a dark, uninviting space into a light and warm family home in Ixtapa. The first time the couple saw the house, they didn’t like it at all. The house had been sitting on the market for awhile and when they saw it, they could understand why. It was hard to see past its most obvious feature: that when you walked in, you felt as if you were entering into an enormous wine cellar, dark and cavernous. They didn’t like the shape or the size of the windows; it had few windows and they were very small. It was one large open space with no separation between the dining and living areas, just one big cave-like room, and the main feature of the living room was cement built-in furniture. They liked the high ceilings, the layout, and the amount of space, but that’s about it. They kept looking. Two weeks later, after little success, they came back and looked at the house again, and began imagining what could be done with the different spaces. “When we first started looking we didn’t have really specific ideas about what we wanted in a house. We just knew we wanted something big, with three bedrooms, and room to put a TV room separate from the living room,” said the home owner, “This house had that and we thought it would be easier and quicker to remodel, and that it would save money.” So taking a deep breath, they bought the house they didn’t like, and embarked upon an ambitious renovation project to turn it into the home of their dreams. First on the list, they changed out all the windows. They installed new, much bigger windows in the kitchen, and modified the existing ones by enlarging them and lowering them to seated-eye-level, creating a sunny breakfast nook where before there was a dark corner with no view. They added three large windows to the main room and more in the stairwell, enlarging them and letting in more light. “I believe that was the biggest change,” says the home owner, “It was the new windows that changed the shape of the entire house and gave it a completely different architectural style.” To open the space up more, they created a new entrance way and expanded the main room by taking out a small vestibule that served no purpose, which enlarged the length of the living room by a meter. They then took out the cement built-in seating to give room for their own more traditional furniture and to give more flexibility to the space. To make the large space less overwhelming, they separated

the dining room from the living room with a partial wall and then blocked off the stairwell and interior hallway from view with a built-in bookcase, to give privacy to the area of the bedrooms and to separate the two spaces. The entire process took about a year-and-ahalf, but was completed in stages, when they had extra money or time, and stopped when they didn’t. By taking it slow they were able to enjoy the design process and seeing the results, which were often much better than anticipated. It made them realize it was really possible to make big changes, even to a space that had seemed so uninviting at first glance. “We like everything about it now,” they say, “The house is very comfortable and very pleasant. It makes you want to relax and sit and listen to good music, its hard to want to leave. It’s a home, exactly like we would have wanted.” They still have a few more plans for the property—to finish landscaping the garden and maybe put in a pool—but they realize, a house, like a home, is a lifetime project.

A house, like a home, is a lifetime project.

Before

“It was the new windows that changed the shape of the entire house and gave it a completely different architectural style.”

About the Interior Designer: Maru Pinto de Caraza ‘s educational background is in Communication, but she has had a life long interest in Design and is considering returning to school to study Architecture, since she enjoyed this renovation project so much. She has overseen decorating and renovation projects in several homes as well as was responsible for the Interior Design of Caprichos Restaurant in downtown Zihuatanejo. You can contact her at maru@caprichosgrill.com

Before

After

Las Palmas - Playa La Ropa

he cottage on a tiny individual lot or the mansion built on a grand expanse of land. This type of home ownership has been the dream of many in the western world where land has been plentiful and where the family lived in ONE home and did not have other properties for vacations, recreation and retirement. Changing life styles have changed ownership patterns over the past fifty years. Two working parents, single parent families and the rising popularity of multiple family homes have created a great demand for ownership in condominiums. In these cases the individual free-standing dwelling on a lot has been exchanged for shared walls, shared entryways, communal recreational facilities and shared maintenance. When many live closely together rules and regulations become important. In Europe and the East coast of the United States, condominium ownership has been regulated for many years. In the west the first laws were enacted in 1965, in Canada in 1975, and Mexico’s first condominium laws were published in 1972, the same year as the bank trust (fideicomiso) law was enacted. In 1985, California’s Davis-Stirling Common Interest Development Act became a model for the rest of the western world. In the same year Mexico updated its condominium law and enacted the establishment and operation of common interest developments. This step was highly important for Mexico City but also for vacationers in Acapulco, Cancun, Manzanillo, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Los Cabos. Because of built-in maintenance provisions, condominiums have become the preferred ownership for vacationers in Mexico who may spend only a few weeks a year at their homes and prefer to spend their time in fun rather than in maintenance duties. It is the presence of commonly owned property, or the presence of common-rights—that can be enforced as restrictions, against separately owned property—that make the project a common interest development. An example of commonly owned property is if the pool, hallways, gardens,

and other public areas are commonly owned. (Where owners of the individual condominium units acquire a proportional ownership interest in all the recreational facilities, as well as in the service areas, bearing walls and utility features at the project; Or in the event the developers have retained ownership of certain areas destined for recreational use by the condominium owners, the common areas would be limited to the sidewalks, utilities, ducts and other construction features of the property.) An example of rights and restrictions against separately owned property would be the deed restrictions that are a part of the condominium regime, such as prohibiting â&#x20AC;&#x153;For Saleâ&#x20AC;? signs in windows, or drapes and window coverings that are different from those of the other units.

Residencial la Parota - Ixtapa

In Mexico, direct ownership of the common property is the general rule. This means that certain property in the complex is owned in common in undivided interests by the individual homeowners. As an example, if there were 25 condominium units and a common swimming pool and tennis court, in direct ownership each condominium owner would own his private space and a percentage of the common areas, the swimming pool, and tennis court. SWISS CHEESE: When the owner sells, leases, mortgages his own lot or condominium his or her percentage of the common area must be included. The common property cannot be

severed from the individual lot or unit! It is rather like Swiss cheese: The owners own a separate interest in the holes and an undivided interest in common in the cheese itself. The common interest in the building normally will include: the foundation, roof, exterior walls, bearing walls (even if located within the unit), common hallways, chimneys, exterior doors, windows and all utilities and the pipes, ducts and wiring for same. The individual ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unit will generally include all interior fixtures, improvements and personal property which is located within the three dimensional block of airspace. This will include built-in cabinets, plumbing fixtures, lighting fixtures and interior doors. THE CONDOMINIUM REGIME: This is the legal document which must be completed before an individual title can be granted from the development. It must be made before a Mexican Notary Public and registered in the Property Tax office and Public Registry of Property. By law it will contain the Descriptive Memory of the project. This means the measurements and description of the land, of each and every private unit and a description of the common property for the entire project. It also must include the Condominium Rules and Regulations. This part outlines the rights and obligations of the condominium owners, it defines the type of administration to be in place and contains the necessary rules and regulations to promote the well-being of the community.

Marina Bay View Grand - Ixtapa

Bay View Grand Residential - Ixtapa

Article 27 of the law provides for an annual meeting of homeowners. Homeowners are to be notified of the time and date of the meetings through registered mail ten days prior to the date of the meeting. This notification should also be published in a local newspaper and posted in a prominent place in the condominium project. If 90% of the homeowners are not present, subsequent meetings can be called for the same day and decisions can be made on important issues by those present which will affect every owner in the complex. Articles 27 of the Law of the Condominium Regime also provides for voting in proportion to the percentage of common property held by each owner. Voting must be direct and personal unless otherwise provided in the Regime of the individual project. In other words, no proxies are permitted unless specifically stated in the law. A surveillance committee consisting of one to three parties must be elected at an annual meeting and is composed of owners who oversee the work of the administrators. A reserve fund must be established with funds invested in securities and readily available for required long â&#x20AC;&#x201C; term repairs. Maintenance fees must be paid for all common areas (swiss cheese) and failure to pay can result in loss of the unit. The law provides that legal action may be taken against homeowners who fail to make THREE payments of monthly maintenance fees. Repeated failure to pay fees can result in putting the unit up for auction. Even if the homeowner is not happy with the administration of the complex, monthly maintenance fees must be paid.

Beach Front Condo - Ixtapa

Absentee owners with property in a foreign country should spend a few minutes to review the financial reports for their complex on a regular basis. When staying in the unit, they should open their eyes and review the condition of the complex. Is it well maintained? Or is maintenance being deferred? This will affect the value of the complex, and the value of the unit. More and more, absentee owners are selecting professional management companies to perform all administration and maintenance services rather than having these services performed by the Homeowner Association or its Board of Directors. This makes sense especially when properties represent a second or third home for the owners who are busy and wish to spend their limited time at the unit enjoying itâ&#x20AC;Ś.not managing it! About the Author: Linda Neil is the founder of The Settlement Company, which specializes in real estate transfers and escrows. Licensed as a California real estate broker, she has pursued her profession in Mexico for over thirty years. Her skills in negotiating contracts between parties from three distinct cultures have placed her services in demand as a consultant and for speaking engagements on Mexican law and customs in Mexico, the United States and Canada. She has been widely published on the subject of real property in Mexico. Memberships; FIABCI,AMPI and NAR. Linda is serving her second term as a member of the National Advisory Council of AMPI and is the AMPI Coordinator for the state of Baja California Sur. For further information, please contact The Settlement Company: in Mexico: 01-800-627-5130 International: 1-877-214-4950 or 011-52-612-123-5056, E-mail info@settlement-co.com, http://www.settlement-co.com. Living in a Condominium.2004. Copyright, 2004, Consultores Phoenix, S.C. Reproduction prohibited without permission.

hinking about building a home, renovating a home or just interested in whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on in home design in Mexico? Habitat Expo, now in itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seventh year, is the most exclusive show of home furnishings, interior design, homes, gardens, and home accessories in Mexico. Held at the World Trade Center in Mexico City, with 8,000 meters of exhibition space, they are anticipating over 9,000 visitors. Habitat Expo will have over 180 vendors, in eight pavilions, showcasing everything from Architecture and Design firms to kitchen sinks: Interiors Pavilion (residential and commercial furniture, art galleries, decorative items); High Design Pavilion (high design furniture); Bathroom Pavilion (furniture, faucets); Finishes and Refurbishing Pavilion (floors, carpets, tapestries, blinds,

paints, weather proofing, restrooms, swimming pools, fountains, lighting); High Tech Pavilion (audio, video, home theater, automatization, security); Office Pavilion (furniture, lighting); Kitchen Show Room (kitchens, kitchenware, appliances); Green Design Pavilion (furniture, tools, water systems). Area professionals and wholesalers will have the trade show to themselves from Thursday, May 17, to Saturday, May 19. Sunday, May 20, is the only day that will be open to the public, admission fee is $100 pesos per person per day. Habitat Expo is dedicated to promoting diverse and high quality living spaces, and providing a forum for products and services of Architecture, Interior Design and Industrial Design. In keeping with their goal, they are

also offering seminars to professionals and students of these disciplines. From Thursday, May 17, to Saturday, May 19, visiting national and international experts, (from Mexico, the United States, Germany, Italy and Spain) will offer two-hour courses on: Green Design; Innovations in home building materials; Icons of Architecture; Bathroom and Kitchen design; Automatizacion; Commercial and Residential Interior Design; Thoughts on International Level Design Industry; Light and Lamps; Sustainable Architecture; Young Talent. The complete program is $3,000 pesos per person or $360 per individual seminar. A great trade fair and shopping event for anyone looking for home-related inspiration, education, or accessories, more information can be found at www.habitatexpo.com

he National Association of Realtors® joined forces with The Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI) and Tradex Expositions International, Mexico’s leading trade show company, to stage the largest real estate trade show in Latin America. The MINT Second Homes Conference and Expo was held April 19-20, 2007, in Cancun, Mexico. The conference included a trade show as well as an educational component with both Mexican and foreign speakers. The theme was tourism and second home developments in the Yucatan and other regions of Mexico, and was well attended, with an attendance record of 700 set. In her opening comments at the third annual edition of Mercado Inmobiliaro Turistica (The Tourism Real Estate Market, MINT) Tradex President Wendy Hesketh referred to a “Declaration” made by Mexican President Felipe Calderon, that said his government is committed to making the next six years, a period of serious tourism growth. Of which, Hesketh made the following comments: What are the implications for the real estate market? Because we have also heard declarations about sustainability and respect of the environmental and zoning laws, it has been said that growth will be carefully planned and will guarantee long term investment, that new destinations will be developed with a focus on nature, culture, business and health. What do national and international investors and developers need to assure a good return on their capital? Who are the legal and fiscal advisors who can guide them and minimize the financial risks? MINT is the place where businesses, government and services meet to analyze, discuss and resolve the issues related to the innovations, policies and tendencies of the tourism/real estate development in Mexico. MINT is designed to bring together the different links of the productive chain of the real estate market: the developers, investors, the financial services, the builders, suppliers and realtors® The results will be good for Mexico as these projects reflect investments, jobs and long term economic and social growth for destinations with a vocation for tourism.

She concluded by welcoming the participation of the National Association of Realtors® for the first time in the three year history of MINT. Highlights of MINT: About 75 Realtors® attended from the United States, with 26 taking the Transnational Referral Certification course, receiving accreditation that is recognized worldwide. The course “Doing Business in Mexico” was presented by two of its co-authors, Adrian Arriaga of AAA Real Estate and Investments in McAllen, Texas, who is the NAR Ambassador to AMPI, and Linda Neil, a member of AMPI’s National Advisory Council and founder of The Settlement Company in Baja California Sur, and 10 new instructors were trained for the course. An update of the Mar de Cortes Project Nautica (formerly known as the Escalera) was presented by Miguel Angel Gomez, Director General, FONATUR. At a Texas meet and greet hour a new project was presented by the government of Tamaulipas, Mexico. This will be a development less than 200 miles from the Texas, United States, border. It will be similar to Puerto Peñasco, (Rocky Point) in the State of Sonora and a massive residential tourism project. Peter Clark, Director of Sustainability at Loreto Bay in Baja California Sur, explained the systems and processes at his project aimed at preserving the environment The “MINT Beach Party,” attended by exhibitors, Realtors®, investors, and AMPI professionals, was an upscale party held on the beach in Cancun and allowed for networking and camaraderie. Overall MINT Cancun attracted over 700 attendees and generated lots of excitement about second homes, real estate, tourism and investments in the Yucatan region, where several new projects are being built, and across Mexico. For more information about MINT go to www.mintcancun.com About the author: John Glaab has been a member of NAR’s International Section for over a decade. He has earned the Certified International Property Specialist designation and is a founding member of AMPI Los Cabos. He spends half the year in La Paz, Baja California Sur and the other half in Uruapan, Michoacan. For further information: John.glaab@settlement-co.co

FOR SALE- Beautiful beachfront Villa on Ixtapa beach. 3BDRM,3Terrace, 3 BATH,jacuzzi,fully equiped, furnished,A.C.,1 parking space. Pool in common,snack bar by pool,24 hrs. security. $355.000 USD. claudefarjeat@yahoo.com call(52)(555)56657676 cell.0445554049167

For Sale: La Ropa Condo - 5 min. walk to beach. On hill at S end of La Ropa fully furnished, 3 BR, 31/2 bath w/huge terrace. Blue tiled infinity plunge pool , Mitsubishi a/c’s throughout, satellite TV, internet access and large separate storage room with a/c. 24 hr. security on premises. Large pool. US$350,000. Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078,. www.paradise-properties.com.mx

For Sale: La Ropa Condo - Just above Hotel Villa del Sol. Brand new 2 BR, 2 bath in newest development in La Ropa. Open living area w/ full terrace and mesmerizing bay view. Fully furnished, internet access, satellite TV, equipped kitchen w/stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. Large infinity pool. Elevator and gated entrance. Can be excellent rental unit. US$400,000. Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078, www.paradise-properties.com.mx

For Rent: Ixtapa - “Arcano” - Private home. Serene retreat in beachfront gated community. Full staff. Beach club, tennis courts and a tranquil lake. 4 A/C’d BDRMs, with bath. Private pool. A very special property. High season: US$1,200 per day, Low season: US$900 per day. Holiday: US$1,500 per day. Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx,Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078,. www.paradise-properties.com.mx

For Sale - Las Palmas Condominiums - A new development of only 18 two or three BR lovely condos, located within close walking distance to La Ropa Beach. Be one of the first to own while they are in pre-sales prices. Starting at US$168,000. Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078,. www.paradiseproperties.com.mx

Casa Frida- Unique home for sale Barra de Potosi – Custom built 4 bed 5 bath, 3 separate buildings.ain house with master bedroom, dining, living, kitchen and terrace with ocean view. Lush tropical garden with swimming pool, open aire kitchen and dining room and separate caretaker’s house. Can be used as a B&B or private residence. $350,000 US www.casafrida.net, casa-frida@zihuatanejo.net Tel. 755-557-0049

Zihuatanejo Bay Views- Selected lots located above La Ropa Beach. All with unobstructed views of the Zihuatanejo Bay and Pacific Ocean. For information call (755) 553-3221, or cell 044 (755) 104-6220. or email gone2zwhat@yahoo.com

Panoramic beach & bay views, pools, Gym, 24 hour security and parking in “La Casa Que Ve Al Mar” overlooking La Ropa Beach. Gourmet kitchen, A/C, Satellite Plasma TVs, phones, marble & teak finishes. Rentals from $150.00/day and Special Rates available. Contact: Tel: US toll-free (866) 358-5268, www.beachviewzihua.com or mollie@eagle2.net

For Sale - Casa Bonita Ixtapa - A fabulous 4 BR, 4 bath condo. 2 Flrs., Beautifully decorated. Jacuzzi on terrace with great view of Palmar Bay. A perfect family home at very good price. Offered at US$300,000. Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52(755)-557-0078,. www.paradise-properties.com.mx

Peaceful Family Retreat, Lake Zirahuen, complete w/swing sets and lots of yard. Great views from rustic, hill-top duplex, ea. side incl. kitchen, 1 loft Bdrm w/3 beds, 1 bath. Huge terrace for al fresco dining. Cable, Internet included. Horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking. For Sale: Tel. (01) 452-524-9855, cel. 452-102-5678, rincon_sanmiguel@hotmail.com, or For Rent: (1 week min.), Tel. (01) 434-342-7019 monagris@yahoo.com.mx

Lake Zirahuen Rincon de San Miguel Cabañas for rent – located on the slopes of Copandaro, each cabin has 1 king, 2 full and 2 twin sized beds, with fully equipped kitchen, chimney, terrace and spectacular view of the lake. Fishing, swimming, kayaking, boating, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking available. (Also Land For Sale) Tel. (01) 452-524-9855, cel. 452-102-5678, rincon_ sanmiguel@hotmail.com, www.lagozirahuen.com

PATZCUARO For Sale – Villa La Jacaranda. Large landscaped grounds, trees. Spacious house 3 bdrms/2baths+casita 1 bdrm/1 bath+covered workshops++. Sculptured cantera fireplace, unique features. 15 min. walk to center. US$550,000. Owner www.novinger.com/patz-jacaranda.htm or Re/Max 11 Patios 434-342-20-30

For Sale or Rent - Flamingo Golf Villas (before Marina in Ixtapa) 3 bedrooms, 3 baths and all with mini split a/c, pool, TV/Internet, professionally decorated, additional maids room with bath. 24hr security, administrator to pay bills. $234,900 (619) 840-4884 (USA) 011-52-755-553-12-97 RBellack@hotmail.com search “Flamingo Golf Ixtapa”

Bay View Grand Residential is one of the most exclusive resort condominium high rises in Ixtapa. It is located on Ixtapa beach and offers luxurious accommodations for the most distinguished tastes. We have several 1 – 2 – 3 or 4 bedroom condos for sale. Please call us for a tour! Beach Properties 775 553-0000

PATZCUARO For Sale - 3 bdrm/2 bath colonial home 2 blocks from Plaza Grande in Historic Center. Interior courtyard, gated parking, quiet street. Newly built with traditional materials. Sol #1 US$258,000. Owner www.novinger.com/patz-homes.htm or Re/ Max 11 Patios 434-342-20-30

Porto Ixtapa. This home boasts panoramic views of the marina, the river, Ixtapa Beach and the Pacific Ocean. 3 bedrooms – 3 baths. Clubhouse, 3 swimming infinity pools overlooking the ocean, every amenity. The price: $380,000 Beach Properties 775 553-0000

PATZCUARO For Sale - Spectacular lake view! Colonial home 3 blocks from Plaza Grande in Historic Center. Atrium, striking design. Lge rooms, 3 bdrms/3 baths, garage. Newly built, traditional materials. One of a kind, must see. Abad 37. US$340,000. Owner www.novinger.com/patzhomes.htm or Re/Max 11 Patios 434-342-20-30

For Sale Ixtapa - Bay View Grand - Now selling brand new 1, 2, 3 and 4 BR (some fully furnished) condos in the ultra luxurious Bay View Grand, located right on the beach with 2 large pools, sauna and gym, beach restaurant and views from your own terrace. Close to all shopping and restaurants. Starting at US$270,000. Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-5570078,. www.paradise-properties.com.mx

Palmetto. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Las Brisas Beach, and Vista Hermosa Beach, Palmetto offers 66 beautiful, luxurious 2 floor ocean front condominiums. This project showcases the outstanding talent of Enrique Muller, one of the most well-known and respected architects on the Mexican Pacific Coast. These units are in the pre-sales phase. They will be complete in 2008. Please call us for a tour of the property! Beach Properties 775 553-0000

FOR SALE & RENT – Punta Penasco Studio, 80 sqmts, with gorgeous view of Zihua Bay, furnished, with Jacuzzi, charming terrace, queensized bed, kitchen. Small complex with pool. 1 week minimum, $750 USD per week, $135,000 USD. Soflozano@yahoo.com, Tel. DF 0155 3731-3345

This excellent Residential lot with 450m2 offers everything, magnificence view to La Ropa, Las Gatas Beach or Open Ocean, located in one of the best gated community in Zihuatanejo, near direct access to the beach, down town and airport; perfect to build a family dream home. Starting price at $ 74,322 US.

Bay View Grand Residences– Fabulous Luxury Condo, 3 Bedroom, 3 Bath with Excellent Beach Front Location, 2 Swimming Pools, Gym & Business Center. $550,000 Dollars. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate @prodigy.net.mx

Cascada #821 – This 1 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath Condo, located in the La Ropa Beach Area of Zihuatanejo, is the Perfect Choice for the Discerning Buyer looking for Prime Location and Strong Rent-a-bility. $165,000 U.S. Dollars, Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prod igy.net.mx

Paseo de las Golondrinas #66 – A Must See, One of a Kind Single-story Residence! Consisting of the house, 4 ample bedrooms with full baths, 1-car garage and large Swimming Pool, that borders the 5th fairway of the Palma Real Golf Course. $335,000 U.S. Dollars. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prodigy.net.mx

Marina Bay View Grand breathtaking views of the Ocean & the Marina. The beauty and elegance of its modern architecture, fine interiors and the excellent quality service will satisfy the most demanding needs and tastes. We are offering 1-2-3&4 bedroom presales, to be complete in 2008. Please call us for more info & tours. Beach Properties 775 553-0000

365 Sunsets- Enjoy the sunset year round from the private terrace overlooking Ixtapa beach, Sierra Madres and Pacific Ocean. Three bedroom/ two bath with all modern conveniences. Priced to sell. Financing available to US citizens. For appointment call (755) 553-3221, or cell 044 (755) 104-6220 or email gone2zwhat@yahoo.com.

Privileged ocean view lot in the heart of Ixtapa. You are closer to paradise than you think. Own a residential lot with 2,000m2 (could be subdivided) Starting price at $425,000US Prudential California Realty, Ixtapa/Zihua Division info@pruzi.com.mx, Tel. 544 87 87, 544 87 88. www.pruzi.com.mx

Prudential California Realty, Ixtapa/Zihua Division

FOR SALE - Punta Peñasco Lot. Lovely view of Zihua Bay from this wonderful spot: 271sq.MTS. $75,000.00 dlls. Call Alexandra at: D.F. 55 52824356 local:75555-44225, sacha2001mx@yahoo.com.mx

FOR RENT in Punta Peñasco, Charming “CABIN” with two twin beds or together for king size, kitchenette, terrace with magnificent view over Zihua Bay. 1 week minimum, $400 USD per week, utilities included: telephone, cable gas, and electric. Call Alexandra: Tel. D.F. 55-52824356, Cell 044-5529707414, local 755-554-4225 sacha2001mx@yahoo.com.mx

Imagine living affordably on one of the finest tropical golf courses in México. Condominium at Residencial la Parota, fully furnished 2BDR, 2BTH, shared common areas with pool. Excellent income opportunity $150,000 US. Prudential California Realty, Ixtapa/Zihua Division info@pruzi.com.mx, Tel. 544 87 87, 544 87 88. www.pruzi.com.mx

Mexico Beach Property - Beachfront and beachview lots, homes, condominiums in Zihuatanejo and the surrounding beaches. Contact John Murphy at (755) 554-0719 or email: john@mexicobeachpro perty.com

Punta Ixtapa Condominium with private pool - This ground floor 3 bedroom 4 bath apartment is located in the most exclusive neighborhood in Ixtapa. 24 hour security, private club and beaches, $630,000. Contact John Murphy at (755) 554-0719 john@mexicobeachproperty.com

100 meters of beach frontage with over 1 acre of total land in La Saladita. This lot is suitable for investment, development or subdivision. Priced to sell at $400,000. Contact John Murphy at (755) 5540719 or email: john@mexicobeachproperty.com

Resort Ownership on Playa La Ropa Club Intrawest *1,2 & 3-bedroom Vacation Home *Sweeping ocean views

Club Intrawest - Zihuatanejo *Private terraces with plunge pool *Zi - The Restaurant at Club Intrawest Tel. 755 555 0382

Club Intrawest – Playa La Ropa, Zihuatanejo *Visit the Discovery Center. Open daily. *Variety of ownership opportunities available Tel. 755 555 0382

*Spacious floor plans Tel. 755 555 0382

Quinta Mar. Life List Item No. 32 – Build Your Dream Home On The Ocean. These lots are for the buyer with the most distinguished tastes. In the area of La Roca, over looking the bluffs of Las Brisas, the views will simply take your breath away. One lot even has its own private beach. This exclusive neighborhood has a gated entryway with 24 hour guards. The neighborhood has a beautifully decorated paved road complete with lights and security cameras, it has electricity, sewer and all services. Ready to build your dream home. Beach Properties 775 553-0000

Naivi. This exclusive residential development is surrounded by a natural reserve. It is made up of 17 exclusive residences that live up to its Mayan name meaning “Bienvenido a casa” or “Welcome Home.” Here you can escape from the stresses of everyday life while you appreciate the magnificent view of the ocean and sunsets from the comfort of one of your terraces or from your private pool. Call us for a private tour. Beach Properties 775 553-0000

HELP WANTED - Receptionist for real estate office. Must speak and write English and Spanish fluently. Computer Savvy. Experienced. References Required. Call (755) Call 554 6226 or 554 0406 ADVERTISING SALES AGENTS, Another Day in Paradise magazine needs ad sales agents in all parts of Mexico. Commision based pay, flexible hours, bilingual a plus. 755-544-8023, 755-554-8025, info@adip.info RELAXING MASSAGE OR FACIALS. Certified Massage Therapist with 5 yrs experience in Ayurveda Massage & Degreed Cosmetologist, offers relaxing Massages and Facials. On-site in Ixtapa or I can come to your hotel or home, call Sandra: Tel. cel. 755-108-5661, hm. 755-553-1718. Rose Cottage - Patzcuaro - Escape the heat this Summer in beautiful Patzcuaro. Spacious 2brdm, 1 bath, duplex, in quiet hilltop ex-pat enclave, with lake and mountain vistas y brisas. For Rent by the week or weekend. Fully furnished with kitchen, patio and parking. Wireless internet. 20 min. walk or 20 peso taxi ride to central plazas. $45 US/ day, 3 day min. Contact Catherine for more info, info@adip.info

Are you looking for a professional to administrate your vacation home? Reliable, tri-lingual, executive administrator offers home administration services. Call Elia Alacazar, after 7pm, 554-1373, cell 755-113-4820. Presentable, Bi-lingual, pleasant and professional, office assistant needed for hectic magazine office. Part-time or full-time position available, 755-554-6525, or info@adip.info for more information.