Feeling A Home In Baja

Make sure to ask the right questions when buying real estate in Rosarito. “Home is where the heart is” dictates conventional wisdom. But in reality, it takes a lot to make a heart feel at home: Friends, a sense of belonging, of spending time in a meaningful way.

Granted, a home by the ocean for less than $300,000 is a good way to start. But, buying a home in Rosarito is so much more than acquiring a beautiful property with phenomenal ocean views.

Since the majority of American retirees and vacation homeowners opt for gated communities and condos, it is important to ask the right questions in order to make sure you will be able to thrive and enjoy your new environment:

• What is the monthly HOA fee, and what does it cover?
• Are pets allowed in the community?
• Is there a limit to the number of pets?
• Are there any rules about children/grandchildren?
• Are you allowed to rent out your house? (This is a nice way to generate income during those times of the year you are not using your place)
• Does the community have a system to help you handle rental activity?
• How is a title held in the community and the home? In other words: Is it lease-land, or full ownership? (This is an all-important question when buying real estate in Baja).

One sure thing here in Rosarito is that all our new homeowners become a part of this great community. In one way or another, both part and full-time residents end up getting involved.

“I have met some of my best friends in Baja,” says Mary Ann W., a retired school teacher. “When I first moved here, I was a little nervous. But everyone is so friendly and easygoing. I made friends with people from all walks of life, people I would have never crossed paths with in the U.S., and feel very grateful for it.”

Many ex-pats end up participating in “travel groups” and “food groups”. Some learn Spanish or get involved in local causes.

Feeling good and doing good.

Many Americans living in Rosarito enjoy the social aspect of charity work as much as giving back to Baja. “The fundraisers have turned out to be a great way to meet people while doing something meaningful on a local level”, says Mary Ann.

The events almost always include great Baja foods, wines, and entertainment, with a price tag of $20 to $50.

Some remarkable non-profits set up by Americans include the B.C. Spay and Neuter Clinics, and the Baja Scholarship Fund, which has put local children through school. The Friends of the Library also helps the Boys and Girls Club, and the Pretty Horses, a horse rescue organization. One group built a home for a local family that lost their place to a fire.

A knowledgeable real estate agent, one that lives in the area and is familiar with the dynamics of every local community, can be your best ally in finding a place where your heart will feel at home.

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From the Baja Real Estate Group Marketing Staff. For more information, please contact Kathy Katz at Kathy.katz@BajaREgroup.com.

About Kathy Katz.
AMPI Charter Member-Rosarito Chapter Mexican Certified Baja Real Estate Agent Full Time Resident for over 20 years. Broker-owner for the Baja Real Estate Group with over 20 ye