Unlike beach resort towns like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta, Lake Chapala is outside the government's restricted zone for property ownership in Mexico. This means that foreigners can buy real estate at Lake Chapala without having to set up a fideicomiso (the loophole that allows foreigners to buy property in restricted areas near the coast). But there are many more reasons why Lake Chapala was named one of the top places in Mexico for retirees by AARP Magizine. Large Expat Community Lake Chapala has been a destination for foreigners since the 1920's and has a full time ex-pat population of 5,000-7,000 and winter expat population of around 15,000 in the winter (1). Lake Chapala is located about 3 hours from Puerto Vallarta and the atmosphere is more centered on retirees than vacationers. If you are interested in a quieter Mexico experience, away from the bustle of the toursim centers, Lake Chapala would be a good option. Low Property Taxes and Health Care The property taxes for most Lake Chapala residents run under $300 (1), thousands cheaper than property taxes in the US. Healthcare and labor are also much cheaper and with a exchange rate of just over 13 pesos to 1 dollar, your dollars will go pretty far in Mexico for many other goods and services. According to author and local Rosana Hart, "We are favorably impressed with the high quality of medical and dental care available in our area and with outstanding specialists in nearby Guadalajara. In remote areas of the country, it would not be the same. The price for a consultation with most top specialists is about $45 US, and you can generally get an appointment within a few days. These specialists have often worked in the US and typically have excellent English, while most of the regular doctors have at least adequate English. Many of the Guadalajara hospitals are new and built to very high standards. Even the simpler clinics are usually very clean and well run. One interesting difference here is that the clinics are usually owned by one or more of the doctors who work in them." Natural Beauty Lake Chapala is the largest natural lake in Mexico and residents enjoy the beauty and tranquility at a comfortable average temperature of 72 degrees. According to Lake Chapala realtor Miguel Rueda Roman, "The natural beauty is everywhere, and the weather is spring-like and exceptionally gentle. You can enjoy a village pace of life with modern conveniences and the availability of information technology." Things to Do in Lake Chapala According to Cashing in on a Second Home in Mexico "There are clubs and groups to suit the interest of every new-comer -- from quilters to bird-watching enthusiasts...Residents can go on fishing expeditions, golf, play tennisk volleyball, softball, rugby, soccer, hike or ride horseback --or do nothing at all but enjoy life under the warm and friendly sun...if people want more, they're just a short drive from Mexico's second largest city Guadalajara." "There is music every night somewhere in Ajijic, Mexico, and people are having a lot of fun. From swing to American country, from rock n’ roll to big band tunes or traditional Mexican music, the variety is never ending. You can enjoy a lovely dinner with some easy listening style music or have dinner and dancing at a lively club. Perhaps you would like to hear a Mexican ballad or listen to a Flamingo guitarist. Maybe you would like to dance to some classic 50’s and 60’s music. There is something here for everyone. No matter where you go you will have a great evening." said realtor Miguel Rueda Roman. Lake Chapala is also near an international airport at Guadalajara and you can also road trip to Puerto Vallarta in just a few hours. Photo by jaec95 1. Cashing in On a Second Home in Mexico, Tom Kelly

Related Articles Interview with Miguel Rueda Roman from Lake Chapala Interview with Rosana Hart, Author of Mexico with Heart