Buying Real Estate in Lake Chapala… here are a few things to consider.
Many people dream of moving to paradise, and for many people that place is the Lake Chapala area. Because of its near-perfect year-round weather and friendly people, it has become a top destination for many expats. But before you spend your money, there are a few things to consider when buying Lake Chapala real estate.
Questions to ask yourself before buying at Lake Chapala
Aside from the perfect weather and natural beauty, there are some important factors to think about before investing in your dream lakeside home. No two countries are alike, and if you are considering exchanging global zip codes you should certainly think about the things on this list:
- Language – how comfortable are you speaking your native language, will you need translators frequently, are there many people in the area who speak your native language to make friends?
- Noise level – celebrations with fireworks or live music are a big part of the culture in Lake Chapala and there are always construction projects in the works as the area grows. What noise level are you comfortable with? Do you want to sacrifice quiet to be in the middle of the action? Or would you rather be farther away to have some peace? Other noises to consider are traffic, neighbors, roosters and dogs.
- Amenities – What kind of amenities do you want nearby? Do you like to eat out often? Go to the bar? Do you want to be able to walk to grocery stores, pharmacies, coffee shops, parks, lakes or cultural events? Do you need a school or hospital nearby?
- Transportation – Do you plan to walk or drive most of the time? Are you willing to give up the headaches of owning a car or do you want to continue to enjoy the freedom of your own mode of transportation? Do you need off-street parking? Or do you need to be close to public transportation?
- Security – What level of security would you be comfortable with? A 24/7 guarded gate? Roving security cars? An unattended gate that opens with a remote control or code? Or perhaps you don’t feel the need for any additional security other than your own locks and door.
How do I know where to look for a house in Lake Chapala?
That’s a lot to think about before deciding on the right area to move to in Lake Chapala! But it’s important to decide what your priorities are before making a big real estate investment. Talk to your real estate agent about your thoughts so they can help guide you in the right direction.
There are several unique towns along Lake Chapala, each with its own unique vibe. To get an idea of what each town is like, check out this post titled “Buy Real Estate and Retire at Lake Chapala“. There is even more detailed information on the website Chapala.com.
Don’t leave your future paradise to chance! Think about the things to consider when buying Lake Chapala real estate and do your homework before you invest.
