You just bought your new home in Lake Chapala!
But it’s not your dream home yet. What can you expect when making home improvements in Lake Chapala? There are going to be some obvious differences between home improvement projects here and north of the border.
What to expect
A common reason many expats move to Mexico is affordability. Low labor costs are one of the reasons it is so affordable to live here. It also makes some home improvement projects that might have seemed impossible north of the border within reach here. But if you expect contractors to arrive in fancy company trucks and have certification in their profession, you should revise your expectations.
For the most part, the professionals in Lake Chapala are humble. Most have learned their skills from family members at a young age and then practiced for many years. The same value is not attached to the big company trucks or flashy business cards that are normally north of the border. This helps keep labor costs down. You will also often find that the help they bring in are other family members, sometimes children or nieces and nephews who are now learning the trade. In addition, you have to be patient and flexible, because here there is no such thing as the rushed attitude of the North. That’s one of the reasons many of us moved here.
But this does not mean that you should not expect professional results. Craftsmanship pride still exists here. However, hourly wages don’t come close to competing with what is spent in the United States. This can make your dream kitchen remodel, which you would never have been able to afford up north, within reach here.
If you are new to the area, your real estate agent should have a list of people to recommend for remodeling projects. You can also ask around at community groups or even the local hardware store.
Materials: What to expect
You may find that the most common building materials here are not what you are used to north of the border. Brick and mortar or concrete are much more common in Lake Chapala than wood and drywall. They are also much less expensive than wood so if you decide to complete a remodel or addition with these materials you will find them quite affordable.
Other materials, such as tile or different types of stone, are also more affordable here and could make that home improvement project less of a pinch on the pocketbook.
Some common improvements in Lake Chapala
If you are thinking about making some home improvements to add value for the resale of your home, consider some of these as having the best return on your money. Not all improvements are valued the same in Lake Chapala.
- Remodeling or updating kitchens and bathrooms (new appliances, toilets, sinks, showers, countertops, etc.)
- Adding solar power and water heaters, or solar heating to a swimming pool
- Upgrading lighting fixtures or outlets and switches; installing a generator
- Adding shade to your gazebo, garden or balcony
- Building a pool, hot tub, or patio
- Water filtration systems
- Security systems or cameras
- Freshly painted the interior or exterior
Home Improvement Dreams Can Come True
Whether you fantasize about a master walk-in closet, a large bathtub or a gourmet kitchen, you can make it a reality in your new home at Lake Chapala. Ask around or ask references, be clear about your expectations, gather quotes and estimates, be patient and flexible, and you’ll end up being happy with your results.
Take a look at the our services page of our website to see some of the referrals we can help you with. The Guía de la Ribera also has a complete list of companies that offer home renovation services.
