Mexico Resort Properties

We can all agree that we're in a buyer's market with some properties having been on the market longer than the owners would like. A real estate auction is a great way to liquidate some of those properties by bringing buyers and sellers together.

The Redfield Group, a professional auction organization, which represents some of the finer properties in America, will be holding two auctions next month with the first on June 4^th and the second on June 6^th. The Redfield Group, with its dedication to customer service and strong ethics, will be auctioning condominiums, homes, land, and developer/commercial liquidation. The Group is a member in good standing with The National Auctioneers Association and The Alabama Auctioneers Association. Their professional staff members will answer your questions and walk buyers and sellers through the entire process - whether you are a novice or a veteran, both events will surely be exciting and entertaining.

The first auction on June 4^th is a developer/commercial liquidation auction: The second on June 6^th is a multi-property auction featuring condominiums, home and land. There are many benefits to purchasing property at an auction, one of which being that sellers are motivated to sell, and buyers are motivated to buy, so no time is wasted running around looking at properties. There is never any long, drawn-out negotiating over price or terms since everything is out in the open.

If you've never been to a real estate auction, call or email the Redfield Group's office and they will be happy to provide you with every detail and answer your questions. The Group would like to see everyone participate in these two auctions, bring buyers and sellers to together, and introduce real estate auctions to new people. Their office staff will out you at ease and it will be an experience you'll never forget.

Besides being exciting and the most efficient way to buy and sell property, there are many other benefits to purchasing and/or selling property at an auction:

• Sellers are motivated to sell, which means you don't waste your time looking at properties that are overpriced.  

• You can feel comfortable that you're not overpaying for the property since the market value is set at the auction.

• Long, drawn out negotiations doesn't exist at an auction since the terms of sale are already set prior to the auction. The only thing left to determine is the price.

• You get to see what the real market is on the property while you are bidding, which doesn't happen with a traditional sale because (typically) you are the only one making an offer.

• Sellers receive new and immediate exposure for their property that they will not find anywhere else.

• Buyers who are looking for great deals on property, which may be hard to negotiate otherwise, have the ability to find exactly what they are looking for - and then some - all with no hassles.

If you have been trying to sell your property with no response or not enough attention, then these two Redfield Group auction events are exactly what you need. Real estate auctions are one of the fastest growing segments of property sales because they are the most efficient way of selling/buying property. The National Association of Realtors states that by the year 2010 nearly 30% of real estate sold in the U.S. will be through some type of an auction.

If you wish sell your property by taking advantage of these auctions, but it is listed with a local brokerage, then you will need to talk with your real estate broker and request they bring your listing to the auction. If a realtor brings a listing into the auction they receive 20% of the net fees. If a realtor refers a contact or lead, they will receive 10% of net fees. If a realtors' contact/lead is a successful bidder to the auction, they receive 2% of the selling price. Each buyer pays a 10% buyer premium when their bid is successful. If there is a buyer representative (realtor) that earns 2%, then the net fees will be 10% - 2% = 8%. In the case of a successful bidder, with no buyer representative, the net fees will be 10%.

If you are a local realtor that has not had enough listings or sales lately, or has property that has been on the market too long, the Redfield Group urges you to speak with your clients and explain to them the interest and benefits they will receive by utilizing these auctions. You should also notify your database of past and potential buyers about these events. What better way for you to reacquaint yourself with your clients than bringing them to these auctions.

Buyers and sellers are welcome at both auctions, you do not have to be represented to sell your property at the auctions nor do you have to be represented to purchase. Come to the auctions, jump in, and see what a great deal you can get on that 2^nd, vacation or retirement home or investment property. You have everything to gain.

You may contact the Redfield Group by calling 866-673-9270, visiting their website at redfieldgroup.com which has a contact form or mail them at PO Box 860, Gadsden, AL 35902.  They will be happy to take your listing, sign you up as bidder and answer any questions you may have. Please take a look on the inside back cover of this edition of the Rocky Point Times for the June 4^th auction on the opposite page for the June 6^th auction.

Puerto Peñasco or Rocky Point as some know it has had it challenges lately.  First we had the real estate slow down, the economic crisis, the negative media handling of the drug related violence in Mexico and now the Swine Flu precautions.

I have not really figured out how such inaccurate reporting can take place and how Deans of Universities can give such false information to their students, the same people who would fail a student for such poor research. In am not a conspiracy thinker but I certainly have moved to believe in the possibility of it being a factor when media reporting can be so far off. Of all the negative media reporting, and statements made by people in power positions, makes a person wonder. The only real issue here was the drug related execution on a main street in town just after dark eight days ago.

With all the media hype it seems more difficult to write on a negative event to it in the right context, giving you the facts yet have the situation properly understood without the media turning it into something bigger and more sensational.

When you know your city and all the circumstances you are either more concerned because of an event or accept it because of where, who, what and why it happened. This is not your home town so it is harder for you, I will try to be helpful by putting it in the right context.

The drug hit here was the first I was aware of, when this became public knowledge I talked with an old timer that remembered a hit a few years ago that was quietly taken care of. Most people I talk to say this city is off limits for drug wars and this case involved the Caborca drug gang who followed the four people here. So, it may be off limits, but it did happen.  It is disturbing for me as it was the first case of a public execution here. This hit was in response to a hit in Caborca a few months back so it was aimed specifically.  The individuals involved came here for a car rally and were followed. From all I have heard from official sources and from the Mexican underground I am convinced this was an isolated case, I am not personally afraid to move through town. 

The flu made more Mexicans afraid and they were told how dangerous it could be, schools were shut down, masked were put on, public events cancelled and we did not have one case in all of the state never mind here in Puerto Peñasco.

The bottom line from my view point, the drug related execution in the middle of the street was certainly an event that changed the way I viewed the safety risks here, I still believe it is an isolated case and I am certainly praying it is.  I remember when I was in Calgary, Alberta, Canada which was viewed to be very safe, even though murders did happen.  When the Asian gangs came to Calgary we had our first drug killing in a public gas station, it created fear until time passed and the violence went underground again. Yes this does change things, I can no longer say it does not happen here, but we are not a border city or the drug center like Caborca so the risk is much less and likely less than most U.S. and Canadian cities of this size.

Being in the drug business is very dangerous and I am proud of Mexico's president who is tackling this issue, as it needs to be held in check. In Canada and the U.S. we know it is a long ways from safe yet we believe the violence is held at bay.

I hope I provided you want you needed to hear, email if you want more information.  Knowing what I do, I would not give up a great time on the ocean for the fears created by this isolated event.

Wayne Corcoran, MBA, PMP, AMPI, NAR

Partner

St. James Gate, Development and Consulting Services

Mexico Licensed Real Estate Professional

wayne@stjamesgate.ws

www.stjamesgate.ws

www.stjamesgateblog.com

I have received numerous emails asking for an update, wondering if the safety situation has changed since my last blog or if the highway between Lukeville (american side of the border crossing) and Puerto Penasco is safe.

Yes it is safe, it has always been safe and I will be quick to update my message if the facts change.

I am still hearing of officials saying it is not safe and I wonder if they are that miss informed or have a different agenda?

Since the first travel advisory was sent April of last year and the update was sent early in 2009 causing the chain reaction of travel warnings, the most notable from University Deans telling their students not to come for spring break, we have not had a single safety event that fits the issues raised in the alerts.

I wonder what grade the University Deans would give a student if their research was so inaccurate to the point of being totally false? I wonder how people feel knowing they spoiled numerous family vacations on the ocean or how many poor people lost their source of income when tourists did not come?

I am doing what I can to get the right message out, but it will take 10 times the effort to set the record straight as it did to spread a false alert.  I challenge people to read carefully the original official government advisory and see that Rocky Point is not a place of concern.  Please help me spread the truth, re-blog, email and phone everyone you know!!

If you have further questions or concerns email me at wmlcorcoran@gmail.com. 

Development & Consulting in Mexico

 St. James Gate Development & Consulting company; was founded with the mission to provide premier world class business and real estate consulting services, market analysis, and real estate developing services for North America clients doing business in Mexico, Mexican Entities or Individuals, are either part, or are related in any way in a business venture.  

  ST. JAMES GATE CONSULTING:    Doing business in the international arena is always challenging,being an expert and the best in your current business sector gives you tremendous opportunities to expand into a different country, taking advantage of the different situations a new country can offer you. Being an expert in your market is not enough when operating in a new country; cultural differences, language barriers, and unique business practices are the most common reason of business failures, turning a great business opportunity into a challenge and sometimes a failed venture.   St. James Gate is a unique consulting company formed by American, Canadian and Mexican nationals living and working in Mexico under one roof, interacting every day on behalf our clients, with the sole mission of providing our expertise about how do business in Mexico in a pleasant profitable way.     

CONSULTING AREAS   

• BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT
• MERGERS & RE-ENGINEERING & ACQUISITIONS 
• DISTRIBUTION IN MEXICO
• FRANCHISING TO MEXICAN NATIONALS
• PARTNERSHIPS, JOINT VENTURES OR CO INVESTMENT WITH MEXICAN CORPORATIONS
• MANUFACTURING, TECHNICAL SUPPORT
• MARKET PENETRATION AND NEW NICHES OF MARKET
• EXPANSION OF FOREIGN BUSINESS OPERATING IN MEXICO
• HOSPITALITY, FRACTIONAL, OR FULL OWNERSHIP REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS.
• INTERNATIONAL FINANCING, PRIVATE PLACEMENTS AND SELF DIRECTED IRA´S FUNDING.
• INTERNATIONAL GUARANTEES
• PROJECT MANAGEMENT
• CONSTRUCTION

ST. JAMES GATE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPING   Because developing and construction in Mexico is very different than in Canada or the US, we coach our clients / partners to improve development ideas, approving project plans, launching projects and providing creative financial, legal, tax efficient corporate structures, construction, marketing & sales tools, and efficient international business orientated legal services and support, working as a team with the investor or development partner.  

Cultural shock does not have to be a problem as by company policy we translate the cultural facts to our partners facilitating the learning process in both ways avoiding expensive mistakes.  

Our development services take an investor by hand from an initial project idea, land selection through to the end of the project when the titles are delivered to project buyers and even further, until the delivery of Home Owner's Operations to its Association Members (HOA).   

St. James Gate will be glad to serve you in the best way for your needs, either participating in all the project process, or just in a specific service to fill in any requirements a developer needs in this market like project set up, project management, construction, licensing, legal structures, marketing and sales administration.   

ST. JAMES GATE CONSTRUCTION   

We are a sophisticated boutique construction company, flexible as our clients needs are, we can take care of building your dream beach home, project managing that construction to assure quality and zero legal liabilities when construction is finished, making your building experience fun and pleasant. We also have the experience, resources, and team to build a master planned development with golf course, hotels, model homes and condo towers with state of the art project management and quality control.   Unlike almost all other professional consultancies operating in construction, we predominately focus on

 finding solutions to issues rather than protecting a singular professional position. This skill can really only be developed by staff with a professional training, construction experience in any or many branches of the industry, considerable time spent understanding and resolving constructional problems, plus, frequently, a degree of legal education and training.  

Our Mexican staff is experienced construction professionals most of whom are dual qualified in a construction discipline and a professional qualification.  

We help obtaining financing credit for our clients in order to ease the unfolding of their development projects.  

ST. JAMES GATE MARKET ANALYSIS   

We can´t just imagine a professional consulting company not providing market tools to clients to make important business decisions based in real facts, that is why we have our own market analysis department to do the research and guide you to make wise and supported decisions when doing business in Mexico.   Our market analysis are provided for any kind of industry or commercial activity anywhere in Mexico, we do not sell data bases, every business decision is unique, because of that any market analysis to support a unique business decision must be unique.  

ST. JAMES GATE FINANCIAL SERVICES   

We have extensive experience in designing efficient and creative solutions for the banking and financing needs of corporations and individuals wishing to do business in Mexico, with Mexican, US, Canadian or EU funders in a Mexico's project. We offer services in the following areas: international financing of real estate development, collateral issues and opportunities; including all aspects of leveraging assets in one country to support development / investment goals in another, loan agreements covering all aspects of secure funds transfer and performance guarantees, guarantee Trusts; structuring United States-based banking mechanisms, debt restructuring; contemplating all aspects preserving the assets and opportunities related to existing distressed  properties and developments, co-investment structures; providing all aspects of properly valuing differing types of contributions and contributions from different countries, private and public placements; including access to unadvertised private capital resource.  

We help provide Buyer Financial Services through strategic alliance with major banks in Mexico, USA and Canada, with Stewart Title, Banco Monex and other world brands in its fields, services such : international money transfer, construction financing, private and public placements, investments, and exchange rate insurance are very common in our day a day operation.   

ST. JAMES GATE REAL ESTATE   

Helping our clients make an informed selection of properties to purchase and develop. We perform thorough title research and verification to assure our clients of rock-solid ownership to title delivery in hand and US title insurance. We help you to find and buy the property you are looking for hassle free anywhere in Mexico it doesn't matter if you are looking for a condo or a developer parcel.  

When buying for a developer we create phased development plans that facilitate smooth transitions from the "drawing board" to the "real world", as well as helping enable the phased acquisition of development capital and resources. We structure for your deal United States-based escrow agreements and banking mechanisms that assure our clients of the security of their funds working for such effects with title insurance companies operating worldwide. We obtain United States-based title insurance guarantees.   

We work with the investor to complete due diligence for the projects and generating the reports that are required to safe guard the project and to present these reports to various investors and banks to obtain credits or to finance the development of the projects.  

We look for options to provide the developer resources captured by selling a development project in its different stages; in order to ensure the cash-flow necessary for completing the project. We help the client restructure debts of projects that are in progress, promoting the recent financial mechanisms for development projects.  

St. James Gate does not list properties but will provide support in marketing and promoting development projects and / or special Mexican properties (see and example in www.houseofthewinds.com ). When we have a client that wants to list a condo or piece of land we will refer the listing to Century 21 Sun and Sand the premiere Real Estate Brokerage in Mexico for US and Canadians with the most sophisticated marketing channels (www.century21penasco.com) with whom we have a strategic alliance with.   We also provide real estate investment services that start with identifying potential investors, identifying the right investment vehicle for the investor, establishing the most effective legal framework for the investor and becoming the buyer representative during the purchase process, managing the return on investment and changes to the investment portfolio. We are true real estate buyer representatives, taking complete care of the buyers needs from property searches through to completion of ownership title work.    

ST. JAMES GATE LEGAL     We specialize in provide unique and tailored legal services for business operations, corporate solutions, international financial transactions, mergers & acquisitions, real estate development or transactions, estate planning, trusts, real estate transactions, corporate real estate structures, international banking and financing issues, guarantee trusts and bonds, hospitality industry issues, as well as commercial and distribution agreements.     

HOW TO REACH ST. JAMES GATE

You can contact us at: Boulevard Freemont, Suite 16, Plaza de Sol, Puerto Peñasco; Sonora Mexico CP 83551 Our office numbers are: Mexico numbers; + 52 (638) 383-7127, (638) 383-1739 US numbers; + 1 (480) 308-0682, (480) 308-0821 Fax; +52 (638) 388 5125   info@stjamesgate.ws  

St. James Gate www.st.jamesgate.ws has this unique high return secure investment opportunity to present to you.  

 We have an ocean view lot in a privileged location near Puerto Peñasco, Mexico (see a brochure at www.stjamesgate.ws on the "resort land" tab). This is a developer's lot with approved density to build 40 units.

 The investment offer is the purchase of the lot with a warranty lease back contract for a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 5 years for its current market value of 1.4M USD. Details of the warranty lease back will provided to interested and qualified investors.

 While the land is under the lease back contract, St. James Gate will add a project that is in very advanced planning stage now. The project, construction, permits and licenses will be security for their investment until the repurchase price is paid in full.

 St James Gate will complete the planning and permit stage, start construction, and initiate sales through our strategic alliance partner Century 21 Sun & Sand www.century21penasco.com, they are the largest and most productive real estate company for this market in the region.

 Further construction investment funds and some unit purchase funds will be raised through IRA's self-directed investment accounts leveraging our alliance with EntrustCAMA Pennsylvania.

 The project will target minimum total revenue of $4 M USD with 40 units priced in low 100,000's range. With this approach we forecast the project being sold out and delivered within three years. Century 21 Sun & Sand has been successful selling quality properties in this and other price ranges even during these adverse market conditions so the three year sell out seems conservative.  

 If this business opportunity is attractive for you, let us know as we believe we have to move fast to take advantage of the market growth we forecast starting in 2010.

St. James Gate www.st.jamesgate.ws has this unique high return secure investment opportunity to present to you.  

 We have an ocean view lot in a privileged location near Puerto Peñasco, Mexico (see a brochure at www.stjamesgate.ws on the "resort land" tab). This is a developer's lot with approved density to build 40 units.

 The investment offer is the purchase of the lot with a warranty lease back contract for a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 5 years for its current market value of 1.4M USD. Details of the warranty lease back will provided to interested and qualified investors.

 While the land is under the lease back contract, St. James Gate will add a project that is in very advanced planning stage now. The project, construction, permits and licenses will be security for their investment until the repurchase price is paid in full.

 St James Gate will complete the planning and permit stage, start construction, and initiate sales through our strategic alliance partner Century 21 Sun & Sand www.century21penasco.com, they are the largest and most productive real estate company for this market in the region.

 Further construction investment funds and some unit purchase funds will be raised through IRA's self-directed investment accounts leveraging our alliance with EntrustCAMA Pennsylvania.

 The project will target minimum total revenue of $4 M USD with 40 units priced in low 100,000's range. With this approach we forecast the project being sold out and delivered within three years. Century 21 Sun & Sand has been successful selling quality properties in this and other price ranges even during these adverse market conditions so the three year sell out seems conservative.  

 If this business opportunity is attractive for you, let us know as we believe we have to move fast to take advantage of the market growth we forecast starting in 2010.

You can reach us at our website www.stjamesgate.ws or by email wayne@stjamesgate, A brochure can be founf on this web pagehttp://www.stjamesgate.ws/HomesAuthenticated.aspx?tabid=2214767

St. James Gate Development & Consulting company; was founded with the mission to provide premier world class business and real estate consulting services, market analysis, and real estate developing services for North America clients (also known as NAFTA) doing business in Mexico, Mexican Entities or Individuals, are either part, or are related in any way in a business venture.  

  ST. JAMES GATE CONSULTING:   

Doing business in the international arena is always challenging,being an expert and the best in your current business sector gives you tremendous opportunities to expand into a different country, taking advantage of the different situations a new country can offer you. Being an expert in your market is not enough when operating in a new country; cultural differences, language barriers, and unique business practices are the most common reason of business failures, turning a great business opportunity into a challenge and sometimes a failed venture.  

St. James Gate is a unique consulting company formed by American, Canadian and Mexican nationals living and working in Mexico under one roof, interacting every day on behalf our clients, with the sole mission of providing our expertise about how do business in Mexico in a pleasant profitable way.     

CONSULTING AREAS    

• BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT & RE-ENGINEERING
• MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS 
• DISTRIBUTION IN MEXICO
• FRANCHISING TO MEXICAN NATIONALS
• PARTNERSHIPS, JOINT VENTURES OR CO INVESTMENT WITH MEXICAN CORPORATIONS
• MANUFACTURING, TECHNICAL SUPPORT
• MARKET PENETRATION AND NEW NICHES OF MARKET
• EXPANSION OF FOREIGN BUSINESS OPERATING IN MEXICO
• HOSPITALITY, FRACTIONAL, OR FULL OWNERSHIP REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS.
• INTERNATIONAL FINANCING, PRIVATE PLACEMENTS AND SELF DIRECTED IRA´S FUNDING.
• INTERNATIONAL GUARANTEES
• PROJECT MANAGEMENT
• CONSTRUCTION

ST. JAMES GATE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPING  

Because developing and construction in Mexico is very different than in Canada or the US, we coach our clients / partners to improve development ideas, approving project plans, launching projects and providing creative financial, legal, tax efficient corporate structures, construction, marketing & sales tools, and efficient international business orientated legal services and support, working as a team with the investor or development partner.  

Cultural shock does not have to be a problem as by company policy we translate the cultural facts to our partners facilitating the learning process in both ways avoiding expensive mistakes.  

Our development services take an investor by hand from an initial project idea, land selection through to the end of the project when the titles are delivered to project buyers and even further, until the delivery of Home Owner's Operations to its Association Members (HOA).   

St. James Gate will be glad to serve you in the best way for your needs, either participating in all the project process, or just in a specific service to fill in any requirements a developer needs in this market like project set up, project management, construction, licensing, legal structures, marketing and sales administration.   

ST. JAMES GATE CONSTRUCTION   

We are a sophisticated boutique construction company, flexible as our clients needs are, we can take care of building your dream beach home, project managing that construction to assure quality and zero legal liabilities when construction is finished, making your building experience fun and pleasant. We also have the experience, resources, and team to build a master planned development with golf course, hotels, model homes and condo towers with state of the art project management and quality control.  

Unlike almost all other professional consultancies operating in construction, we predominately focus on finding solutions to issues rather than protecting a singular professional position. This skill can really only be developed by staff with a professional training, construction experience in any or many branches of the industry, considerable time spent understanding and resolving constructional problems, plus, frequently, a degree of legal education and training.  

Our Mexican staff is experienced construction professionals most of whom are dual qualified in a construction discipline and a professional qualification.  

We help obtaining financing credit for our clients in order to ease the unfolding of their development projects.  

ST. JAMES GATE MARKET ANALYSIS   

We can´t just imagine a professional consulting company not providing market tools to clients to make important business decisions based in real facts, that is why we have our own market analysis department to do the research and guide you to make wise and supported decisions when doing business in Mexico.   Our market analysis are provided for any kind of industry or commercial activity anywhere in Mexico, we do not sell data bases, every business decision is unique, because of that any market analysis to support a unique business decision must be unique.  

ST. JAMES GATE FINANCIAL SERVICES   

We have extensive experience in designing efficient and creative solutions for the banking and financing needs of corporations and individuals wishing to do business in Mexico, with Mexican, US, Canadian or EU funders in a Mexico's project. We offer services in the following areas: international financing of real estate development, collateral issues and opportunities; including all aspects of leveraging assets in one country to support development / investment goals in another, loan agreements covering all aspects of secure funds transfer and performance guarantees, guarantee Trusts; structuring United States-based banking mechanisms, debt restructuring; contemplating all aspects preserving the assets and opportunities related to existing distressed  properties and developments, co-investment structures; providing all aspects of properly valuing differing types of contributions and contributions from different countries, private and public placements; including access to unadvertised private capital resource.  

We help provide Buyer Financial Services through strategic alliance with major banks in Mexico, USA and Canada, with Stewart Title, Banco Monex and other world brands in its fields, services such : international money transfer, construction financing, private and public placements, investments, and exchange rate insurance are very common in our day a day operation.   

ST. JAMES GATE REAL ESTATE   

Helping our clients make an informed selection of properties to purchase and develop. We perform thorough title research and verification to assure our clients of rock-solid ownership to title delivery in hand and US title insurance. We help you to find and buy the property you are looking for hassle free anywhere in Mexico it doesn't matter if you are looking for a condo or a developer parcel.  

When buying for a developer we create phased development plans that facilitate smooth transitions from the "drawing board" to the "real world", as well as helping enable the phased acquisition of development capital and resources. We structure for your deal United States-based escrow agreements and banking mechanisms that assure our clients of the security of their funds working for such effects with title insurance companies operating worldwide. We obtain United States-based title insurance guarantees.   

We work with the investor to complete due diligence for the projects and generating the reports that are required to safe guard the project and to present these reports to various investors and banks to obtain credits or to finance the development of the projects.  

We look for options to provide the developer resources captured by selling a development project in its different stages; in order to ensure the cash-flow necessary for completing the project. We help the client restructure debts of projects that are in progress, promoting the recent financial mechanisms for development projects.   St. James Gate does not list properties but will provide support in marketing and promoting development projects and / or special Mexican properties (see and example in www.houseofthewinds.com ). When we have a client that wants to list a condo or piece of land we will refer the listing to Century 21 Sun and Sand the premiere Real Estate Brokerage in Mexico for US and Canadians with the most sophisticated marketing channels (www.century21penasco.com) with whom we have a strategic alliance with.  

We also provide real estate investment services that start with identifying potential investors, identifying the right investment vehicle for the investor, establishing the most effective legal framework for the investor and becoming the buyer representative during the purchase process, managing the return on investment and changes to the investment portfolio. We are true real estate buyer representatives, taking complete care of the buyers needs from property searches through to completion of ownership title work.    

ST. JAMES GATE LEGAL    

We specialize in provide unique and tailored legal services for business operations, corporate solutions, international financial transactions, mergers & acquisitions, real estate development or transactions, estate planning, trusts, real estate transactions, corporate real estate structures, international banking and financing issues, guarantee trusts and bonds, hospitality industry issues, as well as commercial and distribution agreements.     

HOW TO REACH ST. JAMES GATE

Our website is www.stjamesgate.ws. email us at info@stjamesgate.ws

Our office is located at: Boulevard Freemont, , Plaza de Sol, Suite 16Puerto Peñasco; Sonora Mexico CP 83551

Our office numbers are: Mexico numbers; + 52 (638) 383-7127, (638) 383-1739 US numbers; + 1 (480) 308-0682, (480) 308-0821 Fax; +52 (638) 388 5125  

The following article, first of a four part series, was written by my business partner in St James Gate, Raul O'Farrill, and is shared to help you understand more about how to invest in Mexico.  We are headquartered in Puerto Penasco but serve North American clients throughout all of Mexico.

Many American and Canadian clients ask us for guidance as to how they can successfully invest in Mexican real estate. Often they bring to the discussion misconceptions and / or misinformation based upon myths about Mexican real estate, appropriate investment strategies and -- in some cases -- about Mexico itself.

This is the first of three articles that will attempt to address these myths, answer questions we commonly hear, and outline the remarkably wide range of choices that non-Mexicans have for investing in this wonderful country and its vibrant real estate markets.

Myth #1: I would need to be a very sophisticated investor with a great deal of money to even consider purchasing property in Mexico.

Reality: While education and experience are helpful in any activity, you don't have to be a sophisticated investor with millions of dollars (or euros) to make money in Mexico's rapidly appreciating coastal real estate markets. Even when investing relatively small amounts of capital, countless Americans, Canadians and -- increasingly -- citizens of other countries enjoy excellent rates of return, experience positive cash-flow from the rental of their Mexican properties, and achieve a perfect feeling of security through rigorous title verification procedures and the use of properly designed ownership mechanisms. For those who wish to further their knowledge of all aspects of title verification, ownership mechanisms, trust processing, and title insurance for Mexican real estate there are numerous downloadable resources at our website:  www.stjamesgate.ws.

Myth #2: Ownership of Mexican real estate by non-Mexicans is not secure. (Variation: As non-Mexicans, we can't really own Mexican coastal property or, "a bank trust is just a form of lease.")

Reality: A Mexican real estate bank trust is simply not a lease. The bank trust mechanism created by Mexico's Foreign Investment Law was designed to facilitate the safe acquisition of coastal and border properties by non-Mexicans, and specifically designed to protect foreign owners rights. A Mexican bank trust confers upon the trust holder the same rights that "ownership" does in the United States or Canada. For 35 years these bank trusts have proved themselves a secure ownership mechanism for the more than a million and a half Americans and Canadians who are now enjoying the lifestyle and financial benefits of Mexican property ownership. It is also noteworthy that these trusts are wonderful investment tools that offer sophisticated estate and tax planning benefits -- as well as significant legal protections -- and for these reasons are used by many Mexicans as well. For example, my personal real estate holdings in Mexico are held in bank trusts, and I was born in Mexico City and my family have been citizens of Mexico since 1846!

Question #1: We only have $25,000 to $75,000 to invest. Is that enough to get us into an existing home that we can begin using immediately?

Answer: It certainly is! There are many investment opportunities within this price range in the Greater Rocky Point market. For $25,000 to $75,000 you can buy a fractional-ownership property on the east beaches like Playa Encanto, El Dorado Resorts, El Dorado Estates, or on pristine Miramar beach. Then? Enjoy your property, or rent your property and get cash flow from the rentals! When property is part of a Real Estate Club the club does the work for you -- forget about maintenance or cleaning or any other ongoing responsibility related to your coastal home -- just enjoy your property and make money.

Question #2: Can we use our IRA / 401(k) funds for this investment?

Answer: Yes, by using a self-directed IRA account you can easily purchase property for rental purposes. Why consider buying southeast of town? Because of the explosive growth of that area that is expected when the international airport opens next year. Utilities and infrastructure are already in place, and these properties have been increasing in value 10% to 25% in the past 2 years. We expect that the value of these existing homes will keep moving higher, and rentals are in the range of $150 to $350 us per night depending on the size of the property, which offers a great rate of return on a relatively small investment! Another investment option within this price range is buying a storage unit in any of these areas. They are in high demand today and should be easy to sell for handsome profits within three years. This type of investment can be self-financing in the short-term, is high-return in the middle term, and arguably safer than any stock market in the world!

Question #3: Are there still desirable lots available for $25,000 to $75,000?

Answer: Yes. There are highly desirable lots within this price range in some communities, including both lots within town and commercial and residential developments -- even in Playa Encanto! It should be noted that a number of current offerings are being offered with owner-financing and -- even if this option isn't advertised -- a reputable and experienced real estate investment specialist may very well be able to secure this arrangement for you.

Question #4: What options are available to us with a budget from $65,000 to $125,000?

Answer: Within this investment range your choices are very large! You can purchase fractional ownership of a condominium in Las Conchas, East Beaches -- or even Sandy Beach -- with even higher rental rates and the same benefits. Again, for rental purposes, you can use your self-directed IRA / 401(k) funds to acquire these properties.

Alternatively, you can invest in a Real Estate Club that offers ownership within this price range and not only enjoy your property, but reap the benefits of appreciation without the responsibility of maintenance. Under the Real Estate Club scenario the added value of the share you own not only offers you the benefit of the potential appreciation of the entire group of properties that the club owns, but also -- since the club has a limited number of shares -- when a club is sold out and its assets and services are in high demand, then the share by itself is an appreciating asset, making your investment even more profitable.

Within this price range you also have the option of buying large ocean-view lots in many of Greater Rocky Point's finest communities such as Miramar Beach and Las Conchas. Under this strategy you simply let time do its job! The appreciation of the value of land in those areas has been remarkable: lots in Miramar appreciated over 2,500% in the past five years! Yes, those zeros are correct! If you don't believe it just ask to those homeowners about this fact. Lots in Las Conchas -- and even lots in town -- have appreciated in the same period between 200% to 500% depending on location.

While no one can guarantee specific rates of return on any investment, we see no reason why the next several years shouldn't bring very healthy returns for investors in this price range!

Question #5: Is building only for developers?

Answer: No! While building obviously is for developers, it is also an option for individual investor-families with as little as $150,000 to spend. Once you acquire a lot -- possibly owner-financed -- you can begin to build your Dream Home. Even when our clients are very experienced in construction management outside Mexico, we strongly advise retaining an investment management company that will hire the contractor and -- without reinventing the wheel -- build a house designed for vacation use and rentals.

The advent of Owners Clubs in the Rocky Point market has opened up a number of creative investment scenarios for families considering home building. For example, once the home is constructed it is now possible to contribute the house to an Owners Club by contributing 1/2 or more of the title to the club in return for receiving 1/2 or more of the rentals every month! Under this scenario the family not only retains substantial access to their property, but they see immediate income from the home and access to the rest of the club properties, shared benefits, and amenities! Or make your property fractional and sell it. Or just sell it as a single-ownership home. The options for owner-builders are extremely varied!

Your investment specialist can outline profitable strategies for all of these options and you decide which best fits for specific financial and lifestyle goals. As with any investment, your choice of primary investment advisor will have a great impact on your experience of the investment -- and its profitability. A serious and complete investment advisor team must include a real estate attorney, title and trust processor, real estate agent, real estate brokerage, international tax specialist and -- if you choose to build -- a development-services company.

We can be reached through our website; www.stjamesgate.ws or by email at info@stjamesgate.ws.

I have sent out a few blogs in the past month about the safety concerns here in Puerto Peñasco where I try to set the record straight and have left my email for those that want more information.  I have responded to several emails and have been fortunate to contribute to helping people feel more comfortable enjoying their vacation here.

I want to share the following specific concerns along with my response because we are hearing more and more false rumors and need your help setting the record straight.

The following is a quote from an email sent to me: 

"We have read about the kidnapping of two young girls with one being killed and used to transport drugs; this apparently happened in Rocky Pt.  They never found the other one.  I know there are many precautions we must take, but is the trip worth the risk?  What about the so-called roadblocks that are conducted by men in uniform that seems to be official policeman but turn out to be bandits or even worse?"

My response was: 

"The incidents you talk about are rumors that I have heard but are not true to my knowledge and I also checked with the new Police Chief in Puerto Peñasco who started in December and the Police Chief in the border town of Sonoyta, these things have not happened here.  I have heard rumors like these but believe they are either based on fears or what has happened another larger border city.

Our community has initiated actions to help set the message straight as these types of rumors are hurting our tourism more than the economic crisis.  Please come and enjoy our safe community and share your positive experience as it will take thousands of positive experiences to relive the fear of these false negative rumors that the uneducated media and University Deans spread in an effort to protect people like you."