Does this Rube Goldberg device defy gravity? You decide.
CLICK HERE to defy gravity.
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Americans Are Suddenly Back In This Market
Robert:
We continue to be busier than anytime since pre 2008. And, we are seeing American buyers. We have written three offers recently, and all from Americans. This is the reverse of the last four years, when Americans (as buyers) vanished from the market due to the macro-economic collapse.
Suddenly, they are back.
Canadians have always been 50 to 60% of the market here. They, and affluent Mexicans, sustained the market post 2008. Canadians were not so over-leveraged as some Americans, and they have a commodities-based economy. So their economy, and their currency, held up much better during the long world-wide downturn.
No one can predict these things with accuracy, least of all I, but it feels as if this market is coming back to life.
We continue to be busier than anytime since pre 2008. And, we are seeing American buyers. We have written three offers recently, and all from Americans. This is the reverse of the last four years, when Americans (as buyers) vanished from the market due to the macro-economic collapse.
Suddenly, they are back.
Canadians have always been 50 to 60% of the market here. They, and affluent Mexicans, sustained the market post 2008. Canadians were not so over-leveraged as some Americans, and they have a commodities-based economy. So their economy, and their currency, held up much better during the long world-wide downturn.
No one can predict these things with accuracy, least of all I, but it feels as if this market is coming back to life.
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
New, Big Reduction, Casa Gia, Nuevo Vallarta!
This triplex in Nuevo Vallarta, in desirable section 2, has just been lowered by $50,000 down to $320,000!
There are two 1-bedroom apartments downstairs, plus a maid's apartment.
Upstairs is an open, airy, and spacious 2 bedroom main living area.
Live above and rent out the two (plus) apartments below for steady income. Great area close to the Nuevo Vallarta canals and beach.
For more hi res photos and data, CLICK HERE to go to the main web page for Casa Gia.
There are two 1-bedroom apartments downstairs, plus a maid's apartment.
Upstairs is an open, airy, and spacious 2 bedroom main living area.
 | |||||||||||
| Main living area upstairs. |
For more hi res photos and data, CLICK HERE to go to the main web page for Casa Gia.
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Costa Dorada Beach and Pool Area Video
Robert:
Just a short video of the pool areas, restaurant, and beach front of Condos Costa Dorada in Bucerias. CLICK HERE
We have multiple units listed there, mostly 2 bedroom 2 bath.
For the complete web page for Condos Costa Dorada CLICK HERE
Just a short video of the pool areas, restaurant, and beach front of Condos Costa Dorada in Bucerias. CLICK HERE
We have multiple units listed there, mostly 2 bedroom 2 bath.
For the complete web page for Condos Costa Dorada CLICK HERE
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Fire Eaters, Jugglers, Hoop Dancers, Ball Boys...
Robert:
Street entertainment is a long tradition here, and is everywhere. I'm always nervous for these folks, as they work in the middle of deadly-busy intersections.
They have their acts timed for the duration of red lights, with just enough time left over to run-walk between the lanes of waiting cars and collect the hoped-for tips, until the moment the light turns green. Then they have to twist and jump out of the way of the traffic, like a bullfighter avoiding horns. Scary way to earn a few pesos.
Yesterday there was a guy doing his soccer ball magic routine (reminiscent of the Harlem Globetrotters) in front of traffic betwen Mezcales and Nuevo Vallarta (the WalMart exit).
I tried to flip on my video camera as fast as possible, but, I only caught a bit before the light changed.
For a brief video of the Mezcales Globetrotter, CLICK HERE
Street entertainment is a long tradition here, and is everywhere. I'm always nervous for these folks, as they work in the middle of deadly-busy intersections.
They have their acts timed for the duration of red lights, with just enough time left over to run-walk between the lanes of waiting cars and collect the hoped-for tips, until the moment the light turns green. Then they have to twist and jump out of the way of the traffic, like a bullfighter avoiding horns. Scary way to earn a few pesos.
Yesterday there was a guy doing his soccer ball magic routine (reminiscent of the Harlem Globetrotters) in front of traffic betwen Mezcales and Nuevo Vallarta (the WalMart exit).
I tried to flip on my video camera as fast as possible, but, I only caught a bit before the light changed.
For a brief video of the Mezcales Globetrotter, CLICK HERE
Sunday, December 16, 2012
New Beach Front Listing, Condo Swisher, In Los Alebrijes, Bucerias
We've just listed Condo Swisher, in highly coveted Los Alebrijes, right here on
the beach in Bucerias. This condo complex is only 10 units and is
really hidden away, even though it's a block from our office in the very
thick of the Zona Dorada. There are shops and restaurants all around,
yet this feels truly private and secluded.
These condos began as a family compound, designed and built by a wealthy family from Guadalajara. The family still owns several condos, but decided a few years ago to sell a few.
This one is owned by a great couple, the Swishers, who are well known in Bucerias, but are moving on to different interests.
Condo Swisher is a three bedroom plus maid's quarters, four baths, and has a huge terrace looking over the common pool and bay.
The pool and gardens are just goose-bump, tropical-dream lovely, and there are two common beach side palapas. One of them is large and dramatic, yet restful, as only big palapas can be.
There is also a tennis court, and covered parking for two cars. And all really tucked away. Close to all the activity and action of the Zona Dorada, yet in an almost secret world apart. Exquisite condo, exquisite grounds, exquisite location.
By the way, do you know what an alebrije is? Here's one.
Interesting, eh? Alebrijes are fanciful, imaginary animals or creatures, usually carved from wood and always brightly painted. They are very popular in Mexico.
For the main web page for Condo Swisher, CLICK HERE
To see the condo, call Deborah Foster, 322 117 3099
These condos began as a family compound, designed and built by a wealthy family from Guadalajara. The family still owns several condos, but decided a few years ago to sell a few.
This one is owned by a great couple, the Swishers, who are well known in Bucerias, but are moving on to different interests.
Condo Swisher is a three bedroom plus maid's quarters, four baths, and has a huge terrace looking over the common pool and bay.
 |
The pool and gardens are just goose-bump, tropical-dream lovely, and there are two common beach side palapas. One of them is large and dramatic, yet restful, as only big palapas can be.
By the way, do you know what an alebrije is? Here's one.
 |
| What is this? A dragon-chicken? |
Interesting, eh? Alebrijes are fanciful, imaginary animals or creatures, usually carved from wood and always brightly painted. They are very popular in Mexico.
For the main web page for Condo Swisher, CLICK HERE
To see the condo, call Deborah Foster, 322 117 3099
Friday, December 14, 2012
Our End of the World Proud Guarantee!
We at Robert Foster and Associates are proud to offer the following guarantee to our clients: Purchase a property at any time prior to December 21, 2012, and we will put a clause in your purchase offer contract stating if the world ends on that date, your earnest money deposit will be refunded from escrow!
Note: Offer subject to the continued existence of us, you, and the escrow company.
 |
| Oh nooooooo! |
Note: Offer subject to the continued existence of us, you, and the escrow company.
Fire Sale? Distress Sale? This is the Real Deal
Robert:
We have a true barn-burner fire sale all of a sudden...this is Casa Rocio...the owners really need cash, and have reduced the price first from $325,000 to $299,500 and as of today, Dec 14, down to $275,000 USD Amazing...
To see the main web page plus Hi Def video tour for Casa Rocio, CLICK HERE.
I never exaggerate or kid around...this is an astonishingly low price on this house...it is very well built and has a lot of room...it's MUCHA CASA...plus, it's in a very clean and fine little gated community with a very close private access to the whitest-sand beach in the bay.
Contact Deborah
011 52 1 322 1173099
or deborahfoster@rfasoc.com
We have a true barn-burner fire sale all of a sudden...this is Casa Rocio...the owners really need cash, and have reduced the price first from $
To see the main web page plus Hi Def video tour for Casa Rocio, CLICK HERE.
I never exaggerate or kid around...this is an astonishingly low price on this house...it is very well built and has a lot of room...it's MUCHA CASA...plus, it's in a very clean and fine little gated community with a very close private access to the whitest-sand beach in the bay.
Contact Deborah
011 52 1 322 1173099
or deborahfoster@rfasoc.com
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Web Page Up For Condos Costa Dorada
It was a late night in the office last night trying to finish the main web page linked to below. It's the page for our new listing of Condos Costa Dorada, the newly converted ("condominiumized") building on the beach, right across the street from our office here in Bucerias. Here are just a couple of facade shots as a preview. Some nice interior shots on the main web page.
Go to the web page with lots of photos of remodeled units and non-remodeled units by clicking the orange link below.
Click HERE For Condos Costa Dorada Web Page
(FYI, I just love the word, "condominiumized." It comes out of your mouth like a snare drum roll.)
Go to the web page with lots of photos of remodeled units and non-remodeled units by clicking the orange link below.
Click HERE For Condos Costa Dorada Web Page
(FYI, I just love the word, "condominiumized." It comes out of your mouth like a snare drum roll.)
AMPI Nayarita Meeting and Posada, 2012
This morning we hosted the monthly AMPI (real estate association) Nayarita meeting in Laurie Hurwitz's listing, Huanacaxtle Penthouse 501, Punta Esmeralda.
This meeting also doubled as the AMPI Xmas posada (party), so AMPI footed most of the bill this time. About 35 agents and brokers attended.
Laurie did a great job working with the caterers and security to get everything done smoothly. If you've ever coordinated a seemingly simple catered event like this, you know that the planning, fretting, and last minute problemitas can make your cabeza explotar!
But, Laurie (below) looks bien tranquila.
Here's a little video of the event, and of the living room of the penthouse. It's a spectacular property. Look at those bay views! Look at all those sleepy, hungry agents and brokers!
Click HERE for video of the AMPI Nayarita Posada, December 2012
Below is the link to the web page for this penthouse, with a 360 virtual tour, lots of photos, and pertinent data.
Click HERE for the web page of Huanacaxtle Penthouse 501
This meeting also doubled as the AMPI Xmas posada (party), so AMPI footed most of the bill this time. About 35 agents and brokers attended.
Laurie did a great job working with the caterers and security to get everything done smoothly. If you've ever coordinated a seemingly simple catered event like this, you know that the planning, fretting, and last minute problemitas can make your cabeza explotar!
But, Laurie (below) looks bien tranquila.
 |
| Laurie, La Mujer Mas Tranquila del Mundo? |
Here's a little video of the event, and of the living room of the penthouse. It's a spectacular property. Look at those bay views! Look at all those sleepy, hungry agents and brokers!
Click HERE for video of the AMPI Nayarita Posada, December 2012
Below is the link to the web page for this penthouse, with a 360 virtual tour, lots of photos, and pertinent data.
Click HERE for the web page of Huanacaxtle Penthouse 501
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Boxing Matches at the Mega Mall!
Hmmm, I guess I do live under a rock. There was a real boxing ring set up yesterday in the Mega mall, in front of the Chinese restaurant. There was a big crowd and several amateur matches. I thought, how odd.
Only today did I see the results of last night's Marquez/Pacquiao fight. Or even realize there was a Marquez/Pacquiao fight.
So now I know why the big promotion at the mall. Du-uh. And all of Mexico is delirious with joy at last night's 6th round knockout of Pacquiao. And he went down cold. When your face breaks your fall, your lights are all out, all the way down.
Here is a video of the young Mexican aspirants last night in the mall. No doubt they are all inspired by Marquez's victory.
Click HERE for the video.
Saturday, December 8, 2012
HD Video Up, Condo Glaser: Link
Robert:
The video is up on YouTube for Condo Glaser. If you have a fast connection, click your YouTube setting up to HD.
Click HERE for Video of Condo Glaser
The video is up on YouTube for Condo Glaser. If you have a fast connection, click your YouTube setting up to HD.
Click HERE for Video of Condo Glaser
Robert's Night Out
Every now and then I do crawl out of my cave, despite what you may have heard. I actually did so quite recently, and while above ground I discovered a cool rock and roll bar right here in the center of Bucerias. I'm posting a litle video of it because if you're planning a vacation here, I think you'll get a kick out of this place. It's called The Drunken Duck (El Pato Borracho).
They have a pretty good menu of tasty food (including "Costco Hotdogs" with various trimmings).
The food service starts in the afternoon. The bands start at 9 pm and goes until midnight or 1 am. There are three house bands that rotate. So, you can go three nights in a row and not see the same band twice.
The drinks are strong, but the atmosphere is never too rowdy. Often, early, there are little kids dancing with their parents or grandparents. Nice.
Only once did I see an obnoxious drunk. Not a dangerous drunk. Just an embarrassinly annoying one. What a crushing hangover that guy must have woken up to the next day. Had to have been horrible, because he was totalled. But normally, no hay problema. It's fun. Check it out. Order the Jalapeno Poppers or, if you're really hungry, the California Burrito with chicken. Filling and yummy.
Click HERE for a little video and music from The Drunken Duck.
What's that song the band is playing? I'm Your Captain? By Grand Funk Railroad? What year was that released? Anybody know?
They have a pretty good menu of tasty food (including "Costco Hotdogs" with various trimmings).
The food service starts in the afternoon. The bands start at 9 pm and goes until midnight or 1 am. There are three house bands that rotate. So, you can go three nights in a row and not see the same band twice.
The drinks are strong, but the atmosphere is never too rowdy. Often, early, there are little kids dancing with their parents or grandparents. Nice.
Only once did I see an obnoxious drunk. Not a dangerous drunk. Just an embarrassinly annoying one. What a crushing hangover that guy must have woken up to the next day. Had to have been horrible, because he was totalled. But normally, no hay problema. It's fun. Check it out. Order the Jalapeno Poppers or, if you're really hungry, the California Burrito with chicken. Filling and yummy.
Click HERE for a little video and music from The Drunken Duck.
What's that song the band is playing? I'm Your Captain? By Grand Funk Railroad? What year was that released? Anybody know?
New Web Page Is Up, Condo Glaser
Robert:
The new web page is is now up for Condo Glaser! Click the orange link below the preview photos to see all the photos and data. Hi def video coming soon to a screen near you.
Click HERE to go to the full web page for Condo Glaser.
The new web page is is now up for Condo Glaser! Click the orange link below the preview photos to see all the photos and data. Hi def video coming soon to a screen near you.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Impromptu Parade In Front Of The Office Tonight
Robert:
So, I'm in the office a little late, it's twilight, and all of a sudden I hear a brass band, a siren and drums...that can only mean one thing...an impromptu Mexican parade. So, I go to the front door of the office to watch. It's a small parade. A modest affair. Who knows what it signifies.
"Desfile Quien Sabe"
Click HERE to see the parade.
So, I'm in the office a little late, it's twilight, and all of a sudden I hear a brass band, a siren and drums...that can only mean one thing...an impromptu Mexican parade. So, I go to the front door of the office to watch. It's a small parade. A modest affair. Who knows what it signifies.
"Desfile Quien Sabe"
Click HERE to see the parade.
New listing: 20 Units In Condos Costa Dorada.
Robert:
Congratulations to Patty de la Mora on this new listing. Today all our staff took the orientation tour to view the 20 units for sale in newly condominiumized Condos Costa Dorada, directly in front of our office here in Bucerias, and directly on the beach. The location? It...just...doesn't...get...any...better...than...this!
These units are in what was a family hotel for many years. Some have just been thoroughly remodeled and contemporized; others are more traditional, but we were all pleasantly surprised at how clean, roomy, and well maintained even the older units are. They're really very nice. And spacious. Big, nice bathrooms, large bedrooms, and looking out over the pool and the bay beyond. They have a really cozy, relaxing feel.
And, the newly remodeled units are just beautiful. Some shots of those below.
We'll be doing the web page with more fotos and data, plus the hi def video link over the next couple of days.
These are 2 bedroom units, except for one 4 bedroom unit. All units look out over the pools and ocean, except one, which has a street view. But it's a corner unit, so is nice and bright.
For more details contact listing agent Patty de la Mora, or stop in our office at 163 Lazaro Cardena, or across the street at the reception of the condos. They'll call us over to give you an instant tour of the furnished models.
patty@rfasoc.com
322 278-6961
Congratulations to Patty de la Mora on this new listing. Today all our staff took the orientation tour to view the 20 units for sale in newly condominiumized Condos Costa Dorada, directly in front of our office here in Bucerias, and directly on the beach. The location? It...just...doesn't...get...any...better...than...this!
These units are in what was a family hotel for many years. Some have just been thoroughly remodeled and contemporized; others are more traditional, but we were all pleasantly surprised at how clean, roomy, and well maintained even the older units are. They're really very nice. And spacious. Big, nice bathrooms, large bedrooms, and looking out over the pool and the bay beyond. They have a really cozy, relaxing feel.
And, the newly remodeled units are just beautiful. Some shots of those below.
We'll be doing the web page with more fotos and data, plus the hi def video link over the next couple of days.
These are 2 bedroom units, except for one 4 bedroom unit. All units look out over the pools and ocean, except one, which has a street view. But it's a corner unit, so is nice and bright.
For more details contact listing agent Patty de la Mora, or stop in our office at 163 Lazaro Cardena, or across the street at the reception of the condos. They'll call us over to give you an instant tour of the furnished models.
patty@rfasoc.com
322 278-6961
"Convenience" Nursery at Mega
Robert:
The "convenience" nursery in the Mega parking lot. Prices are a lot higher here than a regular Mexican nursery, but who can resist? Not I. When it comes to plants and flowers, I'm an impulse-buying fool.
A lot of people have noticed that the noches buenas (poinsettias) are prettier this year than last.
These flowers and plants start at 30 pesos, 60 pesos, and only a few of the largest or the hanging baskets cost as much as120 pesos.
The "convenience" nursery in the Mega parking lot. Prices are a lot higher here than a regular Mexican nursery, but who can resist? Not I. When it comes to plants and flowers, I'm an impulse-buying fool.
A lot of people have noticed that the noches buenas (poinsettias) are prettier this year than last.
These flowers and plants start at 30 pesos, 60 pesos, and only a few of the largest or the hanging baskets cost as much as120 pesos.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Web Page Up For Casa Cantera
Robert:
The web page is up for lovely Casa Cantera.
Really an exceptional home. Click the orange link below.
Casa Cantera
The web page is up for lovely Casa Cantera.
Really an exceptional home. Click the orange link below.
Casa Cantera
Monday, December 3, 2012
New Listing Preview - Condo Glaser
Robert:
We're still gathering all the documentation on this (Condo Glaser) but it will be appearing in both MLS systems sometime this week. Meanwhile, here's a quick peek at the view from the terrace.
This is a 3 bedroom 3 bath luxury condo, in a 3 unit building, in the Zona Dorada, in Bucerias, 2 blocks from the beach.
Beautifully furnished and equipped, and much more solidly built than most other properties. There is no sheet rock (gypsum wallboard) used. Even the interior walls are all solid masonry. The finish work, cabinets, and fixtures are way above average also.
We'll be building the web site with many photos over the next few days, but here's the view. (The terrace, living area, dining area, kitchen, and master bedroom all look out at this view or a slightly different angle on it.)
$379,000 furnished and equipped. Very low maintenance fees. For a showing even before it hits the MLS systems, call me (Robert) at 322 135 5979
We're still gathering all the documentation on this (Condo Glaser) but it will be appearing in both MLS systems sometime this week. Meanwhile, here's a quick peek at the view from the terrace.
This is a 3 bedroom 3 bath luxury condo, in a 3 unit building, in the Zona Dorada, in Bucerias, 2 blocks from the beach.
Beautifully furnished and equipped, and much more solidly built than most other properties. There is no sheet rock (gypsum wallboard) used. Even the interior walls are all solid masonry. The finish work, cabinets, and fixtures are way above average also.
We'll be building the web site with many photos over the next few days, but here's the view. (The terrace, living area, dining area, kitchen, and master bedroom all look out at this view or a slightly different angle on it.)
 |
| View From Condo. Photo by Walter Glaser |
$379,000 furnished and equipped. Very low maintenance fees. For a showing even before it hits the MLS systems, call me (Robert) at 322 135 5979
Listing Preview, Casa Cantera, Bucerias
Robert:
This exceptionally lovely Bucerias home will be hitting both MLS systems later today. It's a block and a half from the beach, in the heart of the Zona Dorada, and is exceptionally well-constructed and exquisitely maintained. 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, garage, heated pool. Ocean views from rooftop terrace. More than 4,000 sq feet of superior quality construction.
$649,000 USD
This is just a preview. Lots more photos to come as soon as we have the web site built. For a showing call Deborah Foster at 322 117 3099
This exceptionally lovely Bucerias home will be hitting both MLS systems later today. It's a block and a half from the beach, in the heart of the Zona Dorada, and is exceptionally well-constructed and exquisitely maintained. 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, garage, heated pool. Ocean views from rooftop terrace. More than 4,000 sq feet of superior quality construction.
 |
| Casa Cantera, Zona Dorada, Bucerias |
$649,000 USD
This is just a preview. Lots more photos to come as soon as we have the web site built. For a showing call Deborah Foster at 322 117 3099
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Mexico's New President Takes Office
All of my Mexican friends were glued to the tv or internet yesterday, watching the inauguracion of their new president, Enrique Peña Nieto. I watched it too, as I am proudly a naturalized full citizen of Mexico, completing the arduous process about 4 years ago.
Peña Nieto is a PRI-ista. The PRI ruled Mexico for 71 years, before losing the presidency in 2000 to the PAN.
Now, the repentant and reconstructed PRI is back in the saddle.
The transition of power ceremony went smoothly, without the unseemly inside-the-chamber protests and disruptions that happened 6 years ago (the prior transition). Although outside the building where the ceremony took place, there were protests (naturally). Take that as it should be taken; as a sign of a maturing democracy where open dissent is indeed allowed.
Peña Nieto will serve a six year term. Hope springs eternal, here, as everywhere.
Peña Nieto is a PRI-ista. The PRI ruled Mexico for 71 years, before losing the presidency in 2000 to the PAN.
Now, the repentant and reconstructed PRI is back in the saddle.
The transition of power ceremony went smoothly, without the unseemly inside-the-chamber protests and disruptions that happened 6 years ago (the prior transition). Although outside the building where the ceremony took place, there were protests (naturally). Take that as it should be taken; as a sign of a maturing democracy where open dissent is indeed allowed.
Peña Nieto will serve a six year term. Hope springs eternal, here, as everywhere.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Documentary: The Onion's Deadly Serious History of the Internet
The Onion reveals the real history of the internet. Click the orange link below for this startling documentary:
History of the Internet Revealed
History of the Internet Revealed
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