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HoldenTrask

Jun 28, 2012, 5:38 AM

Post #1 of 3 (1992 views)

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Accommodation?

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Hey all,

I've never been to Mexico before, but am thinking about going there fairly soon, probably with the intention of living there for a while.

Curious as to what is the best way, with limited Spanish, to go about getting a decent - nice apartment, without getting really ripped off for it?

Are there websites I should be going to for this, if so which ones?

Or would it be better to do it when I am on the ground there, even though I don't know much Spanish at the moment.

I'd be looking somewhere on the border, btw, probably Tijuana or Rosarito.

From what I've gathered thus far, it seems to me apartments there run around $250 - $350 a month for standard studios and 1 bedrooms.

That's fine with me, I'd be willing to go a bit higher if I felt the place was worth it. Willing to go up to the $500- $550 a month, or thereabouts level.

I do plan to learn Spanish during my time there, but right now only now a very little bit, although I've heard in these border areas there is some English.

If that's the case, would waiting til I am on the ground there to get an apartment be the best route? Or would you suggest looking on the web? As I said before, if it's the web, what sites are good?

johanson

Jun 28, 2012, 8:48 AM

Post #2 of 3 (1943 views)

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Re: [HoldenTrask] Accommodation?

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From my experience, but in different areas,; yes check the web offers out, but don't make a decision about a rental until you are on site. except to be reservations for a few days at your first stopping place, which might perhaps be at a B&B near what rentals look interesting to you by checking on line.

richmx2

Jun 28, 2012, 4:54 PM

Post #3 of 3 (1865 views)

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Re: [HoldenTrask] Accommodation?

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Mexico is an extremely large country, so it's hard to give any specifics. While foreign landlords (in tourist areas or gringo ghettos) often advertise in English on sites like "Craigslist", most Mexican landlords advertise locally — very locally (like a sign in the window of the building). Best to decide where you plan to live, expect to stay in a hotel or hostel for at least a few months.

Some thoughts:

-- Do you need an apartment? If you are single, you need to know that living on your own is still the exception, not the rule, for single people. Rooming houses, hotels, or boarding are all possibilities, and will usually work out a monthly or weekly rate. Or look for a roommate wanted situation.

-- Furnished rentals, naturally cost more than unfurnished, but "unfurnished" often means no hot water heater, stove or refrigerator. Tenants generally own their appliances, unless it is specified in the rental.

-- Landlords generally want to meet you in person. There is no way to check the credit-worthiness of a foreigner (especially one with a foreign income), so don't be surprised if you need a "fiador"... co-signer or bonding agent: these people generally advertise their services in the classifieds section of the newspapers under the rentals heading. As an alternative, some landlords will take a two or three month deposit.

-- There are of course, weekly, or monthly rentals, without leases but expect to pay more.

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