Timothy Real Estate

Categoría: Living in Mexico – We Have All The Lifestyle Information You Will Need.

  • Poinsettias Everywhere in Vallarta

    This time of year in Puerto Vallarta, poinsettias are everywhere. Supermarkets, small tiendas and roadside stands as well as the many viveros (plant nurseries) stock abundant supplies.

    In Mexico, this luscious leafy flower is called Flor de Noche Buena, the “flower of Christmas Eve.” Like most things in Mexico, it is rich with symbolism. According to legend, a poor little girl, known as Pepita, traveled empty handed to honor the birth of the baby Jesus. She prayed for a gift to present at the altar and an angel appeared to her on the side of the road. (This seems to be a common occurrence where saints and martyrs are involved.) Pepita was instructed to pick the ugly weeds surrounding her and present them at the church. These wild, unattractive plants magically transformed themselves into beautiful leaves that stunningly resembled the blood of Christ. The shape of the inner foliage of the flower resemble a star, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem.

    Though we’ve been led to believe poinsettias are poisonous, this is ignominious for the delightful bloom. Studies have proven that a 50-pound child would have to eat more than 500 leaves to have a harmful effect. Considering the nasty taste of the milky sap that is emitted from the stalks, children and pets alike are likely to prefer the tangerines, candy canes and dinner leftovers that adorn tables this time of year.

    In the mid 19th century the poinsettia was named in honor of Joel Roberts Poinsett, the US ambassador to Mexico, who was a botanist and doctor. The name is unarguably pronounced with or without the ee-ah.

    The red blossoms are actually not a flower, but basically a continuation of the leaves, the red color produced through a process called photoperiodism, exposure to dark, rather than light.

    The grand day of the poinsettia, when we are bound to see the greatest profusion of them, is the 12th of December, Guadalupana, the date chosen to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe and the holy legend. Coincidentally, this is also the day of Joel Roberts Poinsett’s death in 1851.

    Poinsettias can’t survive a frost but will grow into small bushes in the proper climate. In Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs, the plant is called Cuetlaxochitl, meaning “flower that grows in soil,” so chances are anyone will have some success moving them from decorative centerpiece to

    outdoor garden. Good luck and when shopping, according to my experts, for a long lasting poinsettia choose those with little or no yellow pollen showing.

    Que es cómo es.

    Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

    We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

    Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

    When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.

     

  • Vallarta: The North Shore is HOT (and Close by)

    Punta de Mita

    Less than ten miles north of Puerto Vallarta, the community of Punta de Mita has become one of the most desirable destinations in the world for wealthy people seeking privacy and luxury. The Four Seasons Punta Mita is located here, as well as St. Regis Punta Mita, Casa Aramara and more than a dozen high-end housing developments. It’s also the location of Careyeros Hill, a prehistoric/archeological site, dating back to approximately 800 AD, long ago inhabited by humans.

    The climate is quite favorable due to the position on the peninsula, surrounded on three sides by the ocean. The Marieta Islands, to the west of Puerto Vallarta, can be reached in 15 minutes by boat from Punta de Mita. Forbes Magazine has ranked this area Number Two in the world for its rating of famous private residences in the tropics. The well-staffed (35 person) luxury villa Casa Aramara is very popular among the celebrity set.

    The name Punta de Mita, translates to Tip of Mita, indicating ownership of one named Mita. Though it’s hard to say if anyone named Mita still lives on the land, without doing in-depth research, we’ve found that locals object to the shortening to Punta Mita, just as they do with the abbreviated PV for those unable and unwilling to pronounce Puerto Vallarta. But they were given little choice and many now refer to it in the shortened version.

    Though Punta de Mita has been somewhat invaded by the rich and famous, it’s also become the home of enterprises like a global conference including well known Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, patrons and sponsors. Their intention is to connect the thought leaders of Mexico, North and Latin America, in an attempt to initiate a stable structure for mentoring curriculum. They have named themselves MITA (Mita Institue and Tech Accelerator), in honor of the locale and their ambitions. MITA hosts an annual Tech Talks event in Punta de Mita. They embrace equality, animal rights and encourage the unification of leaders throughout the Americas in the sphere of the entrepreneurial network, using panel discussions and social media. Groups like this will change the way we are viewed globally.

    Punta de Mita and the surrounding peninsula, from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita, have a lot of offer in the way of sports and entertainment. Kite boarding and surfing are very popular on these shores and rental shops can help with lessons and equipment. The shoreline abounds with accessible beaches, even though there are some areas blocked off by the larger enterprises. Seaside restaurants in Punta de Mita, north and south, offer a variety of fare and prices. Bike rental shops in Bucerias and Sayulita are happy to help with bikes and the racks for your car so you can plan day trips. Horseback riding is available in Punta de Mita, as well, for those looking for a different pace.

    Que es cómo es.

    Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

    We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

    Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

    When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.

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  • Puerto Vallarta: Be Responsible With Your Pets

    Don’t Litter with Litters

    Most visitors know nothing about the pet population in Puerto Vallarta. They are aware of dogs on the beach, cats on the island in the middle of town but what is really surprising is how little the people who live here are aware of the exponential animal growth and how out of control it is. There are groups who are intent on changing this, as well as cracking down on breeders. Sensible breeding does take place but puppy mills, especially for popular breeds such as chihuahuas and pit bulls continue to add to an ongoing problem in Puerto Vallarta. It is against the law to sell dogs and if you are approaching by anyone with puppies for sale, turn your immediate attention to the police. They will dispatch the perpetrator will no delay. Authorities want to help control this situation just as much as true animal lovers.

    One thing that sets us off and gets our tongue lashing is seeing someone with a dog who has his testicles completely intact. This is a common occurrence in young people who simple don’t get it, but we find a lot of their elders, especially men, are hesitant to have a dog (or a cat) neutered. They have been misled by some awry thinking about the pet’s masculinity. In fact, neutering does nothing to affect maleness but the unneutered dog does run a much higher risk of canine testicle cancer. It is more common than the general public is aware.

    Groups in Puerto Vallarta have been working on this issue for years. We see the majority of these animals in neighborhoods where owners are obviously not in a position to run off to the vet at every opportunity, and having an animal “fixed” will most likely cost money needed for family groceries. There are free clinics with this situation in mind. Anyone can bring Fido and/or Fifi and though a donation is appreciated, it is not required. The intention is to keep the family pet, and the street cats and dogs from reproducing.

    The Colina Clinic is funded by the owner of a local beach restaurant and takes place every Saturday. The Peace Clinic is a local coalition, who uses a mobile unit, going to different neighborhoods four days, Wednesday through Saturday. The Rio Cuale Clinic is the first Monday of every month at the Cultural Center. Sponsors are very dedicated to these programs and donations are very much appreciated. The animals are in the care of well trained technicians and doctors. There are a lot of volunteers and it seems to be a popular pastime for visitors who like to help the community while they vacation.

    Adoption is the best option, regardless of what country you live or visit, keeping in mind the shocking amount of animals that are euthanized on a daily basis.

    Que es cómo es.

    Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

    We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

    Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

    When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.

  • A Fugitive in Vallarta

    Fugitive


    If you are thinking of hiding in Puerto Vallarta, you might want to reconsider. That old adage :you can run but you can’t hide” applies here in paradise. Time and again, losers from north of the border have sought a refuge in this resort town. Perhaps having watched The Shawshank Redemption a few too many times, they imagine themselves walking down a sandy beach, wrapped in a sarong, ice cold fruity drink in hand. Recently it was The Mentalist who sought such anonymity somewhere along the coastline. He, too, was apprehended and they usually are.

    Making the news from Puerto Vallarta last month was the “affluenza” Texan teen who needed his mother to cover his bar bill and in the process of dragging her out of bed in the early hours at a local resort, authorities were alerted and their vacation was cut scandalously short.

    If El Chapo, the infamous drug lord, who escaped in July 2015 from his prison cell and had been tucked away in a mountain hideaway, can’t keep from being discovered, then how can a young man who insists on partying till the wee hours expect to go undetected? Especially when he doesn’t remember to carry enough cash on him to purchase his entertainment and merchants need to escort his back to mama to settle up?

    Ethan Couch was not, nor will he be the only person to evade the law of the north, by fleeing to Puerto Vallarta. There have been many and there will be more.

    In 2003, another face that had been flashed all over the six o’clock news, thought he might disappear south of the border and chose Puerto Vallarta for his safe haven. Andrew Luster, the great-grandson of cosmetic giant Max Factor, thought he could blend in with beach crowd. Luster, who jumped bail was collared by a bounty hunter, was collared by a bounty hunter, who was also jailed on grounds of abduction. Luster was extradited to serve his 125-year sentence and the bounty hunter was eventually released.

    A priest, The once Reverend Austin Peter Keegan, who began his crime spree in Southern California, molesting trusting children, collected his Social Security payments through an ATM while on the lam in Puerto Vallarta. The FBI had little trouble finding his tracks.

    With hopes of going unnoticed, paying cash along their way to avoid detection, fugitives test the latest technology, employed on both sides of the border to catch the guilty. The romantic notion of riding into the sunset, ala Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, is much more appealing than a 6X8 brick cell. It didn’t end well for Butch and the Kid and El Chapo is once again in the Mexican government jurisdiction.

    Que es cómo es.

    Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

    We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

    Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

    When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.

  • Whale Of A Tale In Puerto Vallarta

    -The Whales Are Back! – A friend who owns a panga (outboard skiff) called us with great excitement the other day. The whales have returned to Banderas Bay in Puerto Vallarta and the friend was thrilled to relate their first sighting. Did we want to go out on Saturday?

    Cancel all plans. Whale watching is, without a doubt, one of the closest things to feeling the creation of the universe. There is nothing quite as astonishing as seeing a whale breach within yards of where you sit, floating on the water, in a small piece of humble fiberglass, off the coast of Puerto Vallarta.

    Manta rays, orcas, and dolphin also breach; all are crowd-pleasers but it is the mighty humpback who steals the show. Humpbacks migrate from far in the north, where ice and freezing air are a part of everyday life. An estimated two thousand seek warmer climes on the west Pacific coast in the winter months, and many of them hang out right here in Puerto Vallarta, generating income for entrepreneurs.

    Humpbacks in Puerto Vallarta are in a protected environment and there are strict rules regarding approach. If the skipper of your boat cuts his engine and drifts, staying a good distance, you are in accordance of the law, and have a better chance to a grand show. Humpbacks are still hunted and in many cases, illegally. At one point in time, their population had been diminished by what experts believe was over 90%. That’s not only shocking, it also throws the balance of the ocean’s environment into turmoil. Though the numbers have greatly recovered and science estimates there are approximately 80,000 humpbacks present in our seas, they are still at great risk, due to extreme noise pollution, which has a huge impact, plus injuries from fishing equipment, boat propellers, collisions with boats of all sizes and ecological issues. It really is important to dispose of plastic properly.

    It’s thrilling to know that Puerto Vallarta is an official breeding and birthing center for humpbacks. They will migrate as far as 16,000 miles a year to breed and birth their babies in tropical waters. While they are in Puerto Vallarta waters, they fast. Their main source of food has been eaten in warner months in the polar regions where food is plenty and can be stored in fatty tissue.

    Female humpbacks are typically larger than males, growing to a length of over fifty feet. It’s wise to keep this in mind when sailing around in search of them in their own habitat in Puerto Vallarta.

    Que es cómo es.

    ——————————-
    Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

    We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future. We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

    Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy. We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes. We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

    When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal. You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.

  • Puerto Vallarta: About Your Spanish…

    Speaking Spanish

    The urge to use Google translator should be quelled when attempting to have a conversation in Puerto Vallarta. It might be great for looking up words but for putting together sentences, we recommend classes. Puerto Vallarta has a lot of language schools and tutors are also available. Many people move here with the expectation that everyone will speak English because there are so many expats. It’s wise to remember that foreigners are really in the minority and while your waiter might speak English, most locals have no cause to do so. It can be embarrassing going to the supermarket, asking for a good year in a wine selection and instead putting yourself in a situation of having propositioned someone. These things do happen. Though they are usually met with good humor, for those who like to do their own shopping, guide their own tours and meet the neighbors, it’s a good idea to have some lessons under your belt.

    Self teaching is inspirational but you need to immerse yourself in the language, meaning: go out (of your comfort zone) and talk to people who do not speak English. Talk to the gardener, the taxi driver, the lady at the lavanderia, shopkeepers, school kids, and hey…try using your Spanish on the waiter who speaks English. He will appreciate your effort and everyone in Puerto Vallarta loves it when people test their skills. No one will laugh at you, though they may laugh with you.

    Classroom settings make us get things done; assignments, conversing, and working on your strength in comprehension. There is something about showing up on time, doing the homework, and using the skills that encourages advancement.

    Melchor’s in Versalles offers four levels of instruction so there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re learning the basics or determined to perfect your conjugation expertise, there will be a program to aid you, three hours a day, three times a week.

    Stickman Spanish, which you can find on Facebook, has worked very well for a friend of ours who loves the one-on-one assistance he gets. Carmen, the teacher has great reviews.

    You can also connect with Spanishland on Facebook or go to their website. Another option is to meet at Azafrán on Olas Altas on Tuesday mornings. For 100 pesos per hour, you get to learn from a certified teacher, with classes starting every hour on the hour. Another group that meets in Marina Vallarta holds classes on Tuesday and Thursdays from 3 – 5 pm.  Check bulletin boards in grocery stores and shops in Puerto Vallarta, local English speaking newspapers, Facebook and Google. There’s something for everyone.

    Que es cómo es.

    Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

    We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

    Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

    When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.

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  • Puerto Vallarta Living: Day Passes

    Day Passes to Pools in Puerto Vallarta

    We are often asked about day passes to local hotels with pools in Puerto Vallarta. It’s a smart way for establishments to make money and keep their staff busy. Usually you can get a day pass and use it as credit for food and drinks. If you don’t have a pool at home or you want a day away from the usual grind, a day pass is the way to go. Guests in smaller non-pool hotels find this is the best of both worlds.
    One of the best deals is The Sheraton and especially on a Sunday. For $23 USD, you get a fabulous brunch buffet, with endless champagne and use of the hotel pool after you dine. If that isn’t enough, you are also entertained by one of the premier local mariachi bands. Locals get a 20% discount at the Puerto Vallarta Sheraton with proof of residency, like a driver’s license or CFE bill. The Sheraton is dog friendly but have Fido on a leash. The Sheraton provides towels.
    Mantamar Beach Club in the Zona Romantica of Puerto Vallarta has a pool on the beach that caters to LGBTQ, but all are welcome. Mantamar has different price ranges for guests, starting at $500 pesos, up to $3500 pesos, with credit towards your bill on a scale of what you have spent. You have a choice of a beach chair, or cabana, some of which are located on the second level or VIP access. It’s a party place, with DJ and lots of noise, so if it’s a relaxing quiet atmosphere you’re looking for, Mantamar might not be for you. For those who love an ultimate daytime party experience, this is the place in Puerto Vallarta. Mantamar has lockers, a pool concierge, waiters, and great food, including a sushi menu and quality liquor.
    Barcelo in Mismaloya welcomes day-pass guests for about $40 USD from 9 am – 6 pm. It’s a deal with their spectacular breakfast and lunch buffets and all you can drink. They also provide towels and great service poolside.
    Sapphire Ocean Club, also located in Zona Romantica, offers pool, food service and drinks. It’s not a huge pool but a great place to go in the hot summer months to cool off. Sapphire offers a week pass and their day pass is $200 pesos, which buys you a very comfortable beach chair, umbrella, beach towel and two drinks. Waiters will take your orders for breakfast and lunch and we hear they have the best French toast in town. This is a dog friendly place, too!
    Hyatt Ziva on the Mismaloya highway has a day pass for $65 USD, which includes food, drinks, towels and beach chairs. Day pass guests are asked to leave by 5 pm and you should make a reservation before you go. Even with a reservation, you can be refused, if the hotel itself is at high capacity.
    Que es cómo es.

    ——————————

    Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

    We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

    Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

    When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate

  • Puerto Vallarta Customs or Aduana

    We had the delightful (cough, cough) opportunity to make a passage through Customs (Aduana) in Puerto Vallarta recently and observed some of the do’s and don’ts. (Smile) Our experience took place at the airport and we thought it mind be kind and thoughtful to share what we have known for years.

    We, most of us, know what is absolutely forbidden, such as guns, mace, pornography, contraband drugs, etc. However, there are subtleties that can innocently escape us and there are also questions for which we should be on the alert.

    When bringing a new item through airport security and customs in Puerto Vallarta, such as a large electronic like a printer; or a car part, large or small; anything that is obviously a recent purchase… make sure you have the receipt and don’t try to feign honesty. It could be more costly. Often a custom officer will pull a number out of thin air to charge as duty tax OR they will calculate the 16% of your proven paperwork. But if you don’t properly declare it, provide the proof of your purchase, you run the risk of paying an erroneously high amount of tax.

    In front of us was a disgruntled man, all ready for the beach in his khaki shorts, floral shirt and straw hat. He did NOT understand WHY he had gotten a RED light and WHY people were RUMMAGING through his belongings he has so neatly packed and were now being completely disorganized. It is far better to smile and nod, rather than raise a ruckus, which will encourage further rummaging.

    We brought in a number of items for hurricane victims on our last trip into Puerto Vallarta. We were asked were they new. No, they were all used. Were they clean? Yes, we had laundered them all. This is important information. As far as the customs officer knows, as nice as these articles look, they could easily harbor and ferry vermin. They have only our word to go on. If your word is not accompanied by a smile and a lot of friendly nods, you may discover the true meaning of the Gore Vidal quote “No good deed goes unpunished.”

    Some of us ask friends (or friends on Facebook) to bring things from across the border. This can range from a difficult-to-find spice or personal mail/documents or impossible-to-find car part… you get the idea. We call this burro’ing or muling. It’s considerate and helpful but we are also totally aware of the contents of any package.

    Smile. Don’t say “Oh, great,” if the button you pushed responds with a glaring scarlet. Smile. Nod. Guaranteed, the more you protest, the more they will react. Remember the customs people have the privilege of wearing their uniform for a cause. They are trained and they have authority. It’s their job and they take it seriously. You should, too.

    Que es cómo es.

    Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

    We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

    Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

    When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.

  • The Perfect Sunset? In Vallarta Of Course

    Winter in Puerto Vallarta brings incredible sunsets and we cannot deny it is one of our favorite pastimes to settle into a plastic chair on the beach, with a cold beverage to sip and watch the great ball of fire sink into the sea. People gather all along the malecón from one end to the other. There are multiple cafés on the long stretch, including those we favor on the south end where one can dig toes in the sand and relax. Many fine restaurants offer Happy Hour (Hora Feliz) at this time, though there is no need to promote the setting of the sun. There are few bargains we can recommend more highly with half price drinks and two-for-ones plus a show put on by Mother Nature that exceeds all expectations, on a daily basis.

    Once the sun dips down below the horizon, a green flash is visible for a fleeting second. Blink and you will surely miss it. Though there are the deniers, there is no doubt of the reality of the green flash and is scientifically verified. The green flash at sunset is an optical phenomenon that occurs only when conditions are perfect. Green flashes can also occur at sunrise. Sometimes, though it is rare, the flash will actually appear to be shooting out of the sun but that’s simply an illusion. This phenomenon occurs because the atmosphere causes the light from the sun to separate into different colors. A virtual rainbow is sometimes though seldom witnessed.

    A green flash can be seen at any altitude and we have been delighted to spot them on airplane rides that have flown parallel to the coastline. It is not unheard of to see a green flash over the top of a cloud and mountaintops, as well. Pilots witness them frequently when flying in westerly directions. We have been told, though personally unconfirmed, that the best place to see the green flash of a sunset is on the equator.

    When the sun has disappeared and the ocean has achieved a golden glow, picture taking opportunities go on for an amazing amount of time and it is tempting to continue taking photo after photo, capturing so many shades of orange, gold, yellow and magenta; it’s difficult to imagine an artist has such a palate.

    The applause and cheers that follow a sunset in Puerto Vallarta signal the commencement of another night of fun and lively entertainment, all along the beach and throughout the town.

    Que es cómo es.

    Please join us for our next annual Real Estate Fair!  There will be information on taxes, immigration and other topics.   To benefit from this valuable information and over 20 more exhibitors, attend the Vallarta Real Estate Fair hosted each year by Timothy Real Estate Group.

    Location: Rivera Molino Plaza, corner of Ignacio L. Vallarta and Aquiles Serdan in the Romantic Zone (Old Town Vallarta).

    For more information, visit www.vallartarealestatefair.com.

    Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

    We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

    Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

    When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.

  • Your Are Safe In Puerto Vallarta

    Safeness in Puerto Vallarta

    Puerto Vallarta is so safe that many ex-pats choose to retire here, over other suitable destinations in Mexico and southern United States. These are a predominantly affluent and a well-informed group of individuals who have selected their retirement home carefully and many vehemently maintain its safety.

    Aggression and hostility in Mexico are mainly associated with drug crime and arms trade, with most of these crimes occurring in border towns, usually quite far from tourist destinations such as Puerto Vallarta.

    It seems, however, that when any type of crime is committed in Puerto Vallarta, it doesn’t take long to become sensational fuel for the media. Last week when a local restaurant was closed after hours to the public, a private party was accosted. It just so happens that among that group of people was the son of the most famous drug lord in all of Mexico, who happens to be currently incarcerated, waiting extradition to the US. Rumors have been rampant since this incident but the truth of the matter is boring. Guns were involved, that is an undeniable fact, but none were fired. Most of the male diners were escorted out of the establishment; the owner and staff were unharmed and left to clean up dinner debris, nothing more. Lady friends were apparently not involved and left on their own volition.

    Does this make Puerto Vallarta unsafe? We have heard all the usual assessments of shootings and disasters north of the border, but it doesn’t really do any good to make comparisons across international lines when there are few similarities.

    There are so many wonderful events in Puerto Vallarta that are unfortunately shadowed by sensationalized news coverage. Watch the ABC show Bachelors in Paradise instead of paying attention to the negative. We’re not sure how fact-based Bachelors is but at least it’s pretty.

    Que es cómo es.

    Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

    We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

    Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

    When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for犀利士
     honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.