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Baja Living

Settling In Baja

Published: 29 May 2023
Written by Kathy.Katz
Categories: Baja Living, Baja Real Estate Articles, Kathy's Real Estate Roundup

You´ve owned your home in BAJA for a year… And life is just getting better and better. You took a chance. You decided to retire abroad… to reinvent your life. And now that you´ve owned a home in Baja for a year there is no doubt: moving to Rosarito was one of the best decisions in your life.

Settling In Baja
The Pier at The Rosarito Beach Hotel

At first, naturally, there were some jitters. Where would you go for groceries or medical care? How would you navigate the language barrier? Would you often need –or want, to go across to the U.S.? Would you feel homesick or alone?

But as time´s gone by, every one of these concerns has been eroded, and replaced by one pleasant surprise after another.
Your social life is active and rewarding. You´ve found many like-minded ex-pats who are now enjoying a full life here –and very willing to share their friendship with you.

And those friends and family members that used to come for dinner back in the States, now visit you in Baja and stay the week. You all joke about how owning an oceanfront property in Baja has boosted your popularity index…. But the truth is, it´s a lovely way to reconnect, and enjoy and share this wonderful place.

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New Infrastructure Elevating Roads –and Style in Baja

Published: 18 May 2023
Written by Sharon Rapoport
Categories: Baja Living, Baja News

Construction of a Major New Elevated Road and Shopping Mall will Benefit Rosarito Homeowners

Tijuana and Playas de Tijuana are about to experience a significant infrastructure upgrade. The future Elevated Viaduct (Viaducto Elevado) will significantly improve waiting times at the border and expedite traffic to Playas de Tijuana. At the same time, the new Peninsula shopping center is a welcome addition to the Baja lifestyle. These projects are exciting news for Rosarito and Ensenada homeowners, who stand to gain from better mobility and more entertainment and shopping options than ever.

Construction will cost an estimated 8 thousand 437 million Mexican pesos (around 469 Million USD ) from the Mexican government and a customs fiduciary fund. The Elevated Viaduct will be almost 8 miles long, connecting the vehicular flow from Tijuana Abelardo L. Rodríguez International Airport with Playas de Tijuana, the Northernmost coastal town in the Rosarito-Ensenada Road.

The new road will also link with the Cañon del Matadero area, easing vehicular flow around the border crossing. The project includes supporting structures such as tunnels, false tunnels, and bridges. According to Jorge Nuño Lara, Head of the Ministry of Communications and Transport Infrastructure (SICT, by its Spanish acronym), construction will kick off at the beginning of May.
The Viaduct will also connect with the border checkpoint El Chaparral and Puerta México East. Once the road opens, it will relieve the flow of vehicles heading East, toward Tecate Customs, and West, to Ensenada, through the Tijuana-Rosarito road, expediting commercial transit.

“If you come from Otay heading to Playas de Tijuana or Rosarito, you will spend less time sitting in traffic; this will impact the adjoining roads and benefit users’ mobility,” commented Kurt Ignacio Honold Morales, Secretary of Economy and Innovation of Baja California. The Ministry of National Defense designed the project, which has been praised for its well-planned structure. Construction is scheduled to be completed by 2025.

Shopping in Style

Tijuana also experienced an exciting architectural milestone with the opening of the Peninsula shopping center in December 2023. With over 40 retailers, including iconic European and American brands, a Mexican flagship store, restaurants, bars, and a movie theater, the enclave promises to become Baja’s entertainment and lifestyle epicenter.

“Our residents are stoked,” says Max Katz, President of Baja Beachfront Realty Group. “They used to drive to San Diego to shop for clothes, but now they can access fast-fashion brands without crossing the border.” Trendy European retailers such as Zara, Pull & Bear, and Massimo Dutti are already open, as well as American staples H&M, Petco, and Lego. There’s also a movie theater and plans for Tijuana’s first 5-star hotel, residential condos, and even a hospital. Mexico’s high-end department store, Liverpool, also has a presence. Anecdotal reports from some shoppers say that prices at Tijuana shops are 25% lower than in the US.

“More infrastructure is always positive for the Rosarito-Ensenada region, where you can buy an oceanfront home starting in the high $300k, concluded Katz.

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There’s Never Been a Better Time to Invest in Mexico

Published: 22 March 2023
Written by Sharon Rapoport
Categories: Baja Living

History proves, and money managers agree, that investing in real estate offers protection against financial volatility.

investing in real estate
investing in real estate

The recent failure of two US banks proves that investing excess cash in Real Estate is the best way to safeguard your wealth. While real estate values may go up or down, the physical asset themselves don’t just evaporate. Until last week, many of us didn’t know FDIC’s insurance is capped at $250,000. The need to find better ways to protect our assets is evident.

Mexico could be the answer. A report by Mexico’s Federal Mortgage Society (SHF) shows that housing prices in Baja, California, steadily appreciated from 2015 to 2021. The price index for housing in Baja went from 51 to almost 136 points in seven years. With low yearly ownership prices compared to the US, owning a slice of Baja Real Estate may be the best place to bank your money.

Max Katz, President of Baja Beachside Realty, faced a fivefold increase in inquiries from Americans last week. Most were potential customers, asking about the cost of properties and living in Mexico. Though Americans cannot easily obtain loans in Mexico, property is much more affordable than in the US. Many Americans purchase their homes in Mexico by tapping into their 401 (k)s or the equity from their US homes. Besides the security of owning physical assets, there’s much joy to be had at a beachfront property in Rosarito -starting at the high $200,000s.

PRO TIP: Ask us about inheritance laws in Mexico!

The average yearly cost of ownership in Rosarito is as low as 6000 a year, including:

  • HOA Fees
  • Property Tax
  • Home Insurance

History proves, and money managers agree, investing excess cash in Real Estate is a safer strategy. It is also more fun.

Resources:
https://www.gob.mx/shf/acciones-y-programas/estadisticas-e-investigacion

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They Came to Tijuana for Medical Care, they Stayed in Rosarito for the Lifestyle

Published: 12 March 2023
Written by Sharon Rapoport
Categories: Baja 101, Baja Living

Medical tourism in Tijuana, Mexico, has long been popular for Americans seeking affordable healthcare. But for many Americans, what starts as a sporadic visit, turns into a reason to move to Mexico for good.

Medical Tourism in Mexico
Medical Tourism in Mexico

Many Americans opting for routine medical care in Tijuana, end up buying properties in the coastal town of Rosarito. Tijuana is located just south of the US-Mexico border and is easily accessible by road or air. The city has several top-rated private hospitals and clinics that offer a wide range of medical services at a fraction of the cost of similar procedures in the United States. Rosarito is 30 minutes south of Tijuana, and is famous for its spectacular ocean views and seafood.

“Americans who live here see local doctors in Rosarito for routine checkups, and dentists for everything from cleanings to dental implants,” says Max Katz, President of Beachside Realty Group. “They pay a third of what they would in the US for medical and dental care.” Jonathan Harris, an American living in Rosarito, recently had a hip replacement in Tijuana for $12,000, including the hospital stay. “I was able to pick the doctor I wanted and ended up paying less than my deductible for my US insurance,” says Harris.

Here are some of the reasons that have driven the trend of Americans moving to Rosarito for medical care:

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How Americans Can Retire in Baja

Published: 3 January 2023
Written by Sharon Rapoport
Categories: Baja Living

The best-kept secret of affordable retirement lies abroad. Make it happen!

Americans seeking retirement usually turn to a couple of popular destinations within the U.S. But the best-kept secret for affordable retirement lies abroad. Rosarito, Baja California, known for its beautiful beaches, coastal climate, and unbelievable cuisine, has become one of the most popular destinations for retirees in the past decade. With some planning, this magical city can stretch your money further than any in the U.S.

How Americans Can Retire in Baja
How Americans Can Retire in Baja

Rosarito’s vibrant culture has attracted a large community of Americans looking to retire. Due to its proximity to the U.S. border—a short 40-minute drive—it is easy to visit the U.S. and stay connected with loved ones.

The Rosarito beaches are among some of the most beautiful in all of Mexico, showcasing the vast blue Pacific Ocean. Almost perfect weather that rarely drops below 50 degrees makes it a vacation or retirement spot you can call home. Rosarito and Ensenada are known worldwide for having some of the most spectacular fresh seafood, including local lobster, shrimp, and fish. And by driving 30 minutes East, you’ll find the Valle de Guadalupe with its world-class wineries and Michelin-star restaurants

It’s hard to resist this beach lifestyle, but many don’t realize how much more Rosarito offers. Due to foreign exchange rates, retirees live comfortably in Rosarito for as little as $2,500 per month. Food and other essential needs are drastically less expensive than in the U.S. This has allowed many Americans to enjoy the Mexican lifestyle.

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Calafia Community Lifestyle

Published: 31 March 2020
Written by Maricela Carter
Categories: Baja Communities

Calafia Community Lifestyle 

Calafia Condos
Calafia Condos

Located on K.M. 34.5 Tijuana-Ensenada Carretera Road of Playas de Rosarito, Baja California, Calafia is a well-established oceanfront gated community. A unique paradise, famous for its resort-like amenities like pet-friendly grounds, clubhouse, oceanfront walking paths, gyms, spas, sandy beach,  beautiful green areas, 24/7 Security, friendly neighbors, and most importantly, when you walk in and around the community, you have a great amount of peace and relaxation.

There is also a clubhouse that provides you with a complete ocean view, fully equipped (kitchen, bathrooms, and sitting area) along with an oceanfront view pool and fire pit. This area is great for getting to know your neighbors and for creating small gatherings.

This community is welcoming to everyone, especially to those who enjoy running into people they know, and making and sharing memories while looking at the gorgeous ocean. Let’s not leave out our pets that make friends as well, especially at the dog park.

At Calafia you are stress-free, it’s a community with singles, couples, and families working and retired enjoying a slower pace of life.

One of the moments that I have seen and enjoyed the most when showing the property is watching the whales giving us a show, jumping in the air or splashing, dolphins swimming, huge waves, and best of all, the sound of the waves that is relaxing, it’s like nothing else exist when you see and hear the waves, it is totally mesmerizing.

Written by Maricela Carter

For more information, please visit MY PROFILE. 

The Problems You’ll Face When You Move to Baja Will Make Your Friends Green with Envy

Published: 30 October 2019
Written by Kathy.Katz
Categories: Baja Living, Baja Real Estate Articles, Kathy's Real Estate Roundup

Most people realize that moving to Baja will immediately help their finances and provide a unique opportunity to own oceanfront property. But you may not realize the many “challenges” you’ll face when moving to Baja, most of which will make your friends back in the States jealous.

Garden Unit in Club Marena
Garden Unit in Club Marena

Here are the “challenges” of moving to Baja:

Too much fun and travel. A round-trip from Baja to Puerta Vallarta costs around $200 and will get you there in about 90 minutes. The opportunity to visit fascinating destinations in Mexico, enjoy top-notch service and delicious food at affordable prices will make you forget about expensive U.S. travel. Other hot spots in Mexico include small old historic towns such as San Miguel Allende -voted No. 1 City in the “World’s Top Cities of 2017” Travel + Leisure List.- Mexican discount airlines such as Volaris and Interjet offer great rates year round, while Aeromexico is renowned for their unparalleled service.

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Things you Didn´t Know About Calafia

Published: 29 October 2019
Written by Kathy.Katz
Categories: Baja Communities, Baja Living, Baja Real Estate Articles, Kathy's Real Estate Roundup

Heading down the Rosarito-Ensenada toll-free road, the Calafia towers are hard to miss. They have become a landmark of the coastal scenery, a sign of delightful surprises awaiting us: Pacific Ocean Views, mouthwatering lobster tacos, surf breaking at your toes, and sea breeze.

Aerial View Of Calafia Condos
Aerial View Of Calafia Condos

While newer communities have come and gone amidst turmoil and scandal, Calafia Condos Resort & Villas stand tall, having become one of the most respected and stable private residential neighborhoods in Rosarito.

If you´ve never been to Calafia, there are many things you may not know about them.

The complex is almost 30 years old

  • It was the brainchild of a visionary group of architects and builders, who are still involved in the operation of the compound. Some considered it to be ahead of its time.
  • It started with a single tower, built in 1987. Tower 2 was built in 2006 and after an incredible boom, Tower 3 was built in 2012
  • It now holds 197 units, and 36, single story villas
  • Whereas in the U.S. some people equate newer with better, in Mexico, structures built around the 1980´s are very coveted for their solid construction and comfortable layout
  • The lush gardens at Calafia are 30 years in the making

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Baja HOA: What Does It Cover

Published: 29 October 2019
Written by Kathy.Katz
Categories: Baja Living, Baja Real Estate Articles, Kathy's Real Estate Roundup, Legal Info

Baja HOA: What does it cover? …and will you make use of it? When looking at ownership in Baja, buyers must take into consideration what their monthly expenses are going to be.

HOA Fees
HOA Fees

Property taxes, bank trust fees, and insurance at set fees. But the fee that could make a difference is your monthly HOA. This could work to your advantage. Meaning, you can choose your community wisely, so you only pay for the amenities you want and will enjoy.

So the question is: Are the added amenities worth the cost?
Older developments in Baja usually offer more green areas, oceanfront boardwalks, and beach access. For many of our clients, these are well worth any added cost.

Other places, such as the Condos at the Rosarito Beach Hotel, provide extra discounts on amenities. They also have built-in property management, which is nice for investors looking for lifestyle and value. While gated communities and oceanfront spas and pools are the norm in Baja, buyers should always be aware of what they are paying for. Generally speaking, more pools, Jacuzzis, and tennis courts mean higher fees.

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Living In Rosarito A Smooth Ride

Published: 29 October 2019
Written by Kathy.Katz
Categories: Baja Living, Baja Real Estate Articles, Kathy's Real Estate Roundup

Choosing the right location makes adjustment much easier for expats. Owning a home in Mexico is very different from owning a home in the US. Contrary to what many people think, many daily tasks are actually easier South of the Border. And of course, the cost of living in Mexico is much lower than in the U.S.

Pool in the gated community of Las Ventanas
Pool in the gated community of Las Ventanas

People interested in retiring or buying a vacation home in Mexico frequently ask our agents at Baja Real Estate Group how “things work” here. Here are some of these questions, and their answers:

How much will I pay in property taxes in Rosarito?
The median annual Property Tax for our client´s homes is around $250 dollars –roughly the cost of a night out in L.A.

How do I go about paying my Property Tax?
These taxes are paid yearly at the local City Hall building (called Palacio Municipal). And while at it, remember to ask if you are eligible for the senior discount. You should not rely on getting a payment notice in your mailbox. Mexican mail service is notoriously slow, so you are better of marking your calendar.

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Good News On All Fronts For Baja California And The Baja Real Estate Market

Published: 3 February 2019
Written by Sharon Rapoport
Categories: Baja Communities, Baja Real Estate Articles

Northern Baja Real-Estate market is expected to heat up, Santa Barbara in Bajamar adds amenities to keep up with demand.

  • Media attention luring visitors back to Rosarito and Ensenada, number of visitors still strong as summer dies
  • Santa Barbara in Bajamar hits the 50 percent mark on amenities, construction going on at full speed to keep up with potential buyer´s interest
Call it the Baja Effect
Call it the Baja Effect

Call it the Baja- is-Back Effect. A string of recent features in such diverse media outlets as the San Diego Reader, Forbes Travel Guide and Anthony Bourdain´s No Reservations, have been showcasing the charms of Northern Baja.

The positive media attention has lured Americans back to the region. After these visitors get back home, their upbeat reports make it back to the media, thus feeding a virtuous circle that is expected to bring still more tourism and real estate buyers to the Rosarito-Ensenada area.

At Santa Barbara in Bajamar, developers are working hard to get ahead of the curve, and are not sparing any expense on the construction of new outdoor attractions to attract the new wave of buyers expected to hit the Northern Baja Coast. The construction of a new oceanfront pool complex, with shaded cabanas and changing rooms, outdoor kitchens with barbecues, sitting and tanning areas has hit the 50 percent mark, and is not slowing down, much as the number of visitors and tourists has not dwindled even as the summer dies down.

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Mexico Named the Best Place to Retire in 2017 by International Living

Published: 27 February 2017
Written by Javier Carrillo
Categories: Baja Living

Why Boomers are Flocking Rosarito and Ensenada

While the Mexico-US border wall is making headlines, so is the idea of retiring in Mexico. International Living just announced the “List of The Ten Best Places to Retire in 2017”. Mexico not only made the cut -as it has for several years in a row, but is number one. The reason is simple: Mexico offers an unparalleled lifestyle on a modest budget, and that is exactly what the Boomer generation needs.

Mision in Loreto
Mision in Loreto

The Boomer Situation in a Nutshell
Almost 10,000 Baby Boomers turn 65 every day in the US. Most of them lived in two-income households. Many have no pension plans, and their 401ks were depleted in the 2008 market crash. They put the kids through ever more expensive colleges, and probably went through a divorce that shook their finances.

So, what are their options now that they are retiring?
“Full-service retirement communities in the US have become billion dollar industries. Entry fees average $500,000, with monthly fees of up to $5,000 per person in independent living,” says Rodgers. These communities, called CCRC’s (Continuing Care Retirement Communities), have many restrictions and usually include a health care component. The average age of a senior moving to these communities is in their late 70’s to early 80’s.”

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Junior Penthouse 1610 Open House Tour at the Rosarito Beach Condo Hotel

Published: 24 April 2015
Written by Max.Katz
Categories: Baja Communities, Open House Videos, Real Estate Videos

Max Katz, Broker and Owner of The Baja Real Estate Group, takes us on a tour of Junior Penthouse 1610 at The Rosarito Beach Condo Hotel in Rosarito Beach.

This 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom Junior Penthouse features an elegant compact layout, ideal for the business man or the second homeowner, who is looking for an upscale setting within a rich amenity resort.

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