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LEAVING A HOUSE VACANT
Mexico Connect Forum Discussion Threads
Posted by James on May 20, 1999
My wife and I have been to Mexico a few times in the past years. We are considering the purchase of a home in the Guad/Chapala area. Because we will not be living there full time for another couple of years, we are wondering if there is any problem with leaving it unoccupied for months at a time. Initially we would winter there for 1-3 months and over a period of a few years make the move to a more full time basis with annual 'vacations' back to see family. Any help is greatly appreciated. Gracias Amigos.
Posted by Carron in Chiapas on May 21, 1999
I agree with the above comments and advise that the situation changes according to where you live. I would make these suggestions:
(1) know your neighbors. If you are on friendly terms with them, whether they are Mexican or US, they will at least provide a look out for anything troubling about your property.
(2) We have a maid (muchacha) who is also our close neighbor. When we go to the US she and her entire family move in. Since they do not even have a radio, they love to watch television. It is quite a matter of pride to them not to permit anything to go wrong at the house. And when we get back my house is always in perfect order, clean and welcoming.
(3) Also where we live there are many very affordable security services. They can keep an armed guard with a large dog at your property around the clock if that makes you feel secure.
I would suggest that you go on and buy the house and once you are familiar with the neighborhood (after your initial stay of several months) you will have a much better feel for just exactly how much help or security you will need in your particular circumstances. Buena suerte! If you want it enough, you will find a way.Posted by Anonymous
Hi James,
Once I had a house for sale in the U.S. in a moderately busy neighborhood. I left it vacant because I didn't want the hassle of a short-term rental situation. Several weeks later, in response to a phone call from a former neighbor, I discovered someone had been using it, even built a fire in the middle of the floor. The police were so certain it was someone involved in drugs they tore the house apart looking for evidence. Needless to say, I would not leave a house vacant ANYWHERE. I know people in Mexico who sublet when they are gone, and some who hire a house sitter. Give it some thought.
Posted by jennifer rose on May 20, 1999
Whether to leave your home unattended depends upon a lot of factors, starting with the security level of the house. Who's going to clean up the detritus of flyers and dirty sidewalks that mark the house as an unoccupied one? Will it be in a gated community with restricted access? Will you be leaving a key, expense money and authority with a trusted but nosy neighbor or close friend? Will household staff be entering the premises on a daily basis during your absence? Can you locate someone to spend at least the night in the house? Establishing a regular presence within the house is key to averting burglaries. These measures would apply here in Mexico as well as anywhere else.
Posted by tony ferrell on May 23, 1999
Hello,
I agree with Jennifer, location plays a big part on the accessibility of your house. You probably won't have a problem with drunks or drugs addicts moving in. You're more likely to have a problem with a needy family moving in. Read up on Mexico's squatter laws, they tend to favor the squatter. From what I read, moving someone out is a bit harder there than here in the US. Also I think the advice about knowing your neighbors is ok, but to expect them to keep out a needy family who will probably be a local, may be asking a little too much. Maybe consider a maid to live there full time? Tony