Puerto Peñasco Rocky Point: a stone's throw from the US

Heidi Wosak is the director general and designated broker for Century 21 Sun & Sand in Puerto Peñasco.

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Inside México: What percentage of your clients are Americans, Mexicans, Canadians, and Europeans?

Heidi Wosak: Approximately 75, 10, 10, and 5 % [respectively].

IM: Are they buying second homes, or a primary place of residence?

HW: Secondary homes.

IM: What price range are they looking in?

HW: $200,000 - $800,000.

IM: What kind of amenities are they requesting?

HW:  Pools, ocean views, property management, and parking, specifically garages.

IM: What draws your clients to Puerto Peñasco?

HW: Ease of access driving from the USA. [It’s] only 3.5 hours from Tucson or Phoenix. Many Americans live here full time, and many locals speak English.

IM: What distinguishes the area from other coastal communities in Mexico?

HW : [It’s the] newest tourist destination in Mexico, and the Fonatur Marina (part of the Nautical Ladder of the Sea of Cortez) is in place. [It offers] clean beaches and proximity to the USA. A new international airport is due to open in early 2009 The new coastal highway starting from El Golfo de Santa Clara (located on the northeastern edge of the Sea of Cortez) and connecting all the way to Guaymas is under construction and nearing completion in the northern stretches, from El Golfo to Puerto Lobos.

IM: Do your clients feel like they’re moving to a foreign country? Or is there a strong English-speaking presence that makes them feel more “at home”?

HW:  [It’s] close to the USA with many English speaking residents, Mexican and foreign.

IM: Is access to medical care a consideration in their decision to move to Puerto Peñasco?

HW: Yes, especially for retirees. New private hospitals are investing here. A new “One Stop Medical Clinic” is in operation, offering health service packages starting as low as $700 for the year for unlimited consultations. They have an in-house pharmacy and some of the newest equipment available to treat or diagnose.

IM: What other major lifestyle considerations do your clients take into account when purchasing in Puerto Peñasco?

HW: What is there to do? We have three golf courses, two of which are Jack Nicklaus-designed. [There are] fishing charters, scuba, and snorkeling, [as well as] active groups in the community [such as] the Red Hat Society for ladies and the South of the Border Singles Group. The American Legion has Post #15 here and meets monthly.

IM: Has the Puerto Peñasco market been affected by the real estate turmoil in the US?

HW: Yes. Last year it dropped 49 %.

IM: What is your forecast for home prices in Puerto Peñasco for the rest of 2008?

HW: Prices here have leveled off to what we feel will be the lowest ever. During 2003-2005 properties here appreciated from 15-100%.

IM: Is there any particular area in Puerto Peñasco that you think represents a “bargain” for buyers from the US looking to buy there?

HW: Sandy Beach and Las Conchas are the two areas that experienced phenomenal growth over the past eight years, both in construction and appreciation. [They] differ in that one is a resort beach while the other is a residential community. These are the two preferred areas and as such, most of the growth and construction has occurred there. With increased inventory available on the market today this is where you will find sellers more motivated to move the property off the market and recoup their investment.

Lower Priced:

Los Claveles is a patio home community consisting of thirty-three houses, each with its own two-car garage. The houses come complete with A/C and heat, and stove, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, and washer/dryer. Prices start in the low $100,000s and developer financing is available. 2 or 3 bedroom options, with a second floor option on select units.

Middle Priced:

1) Lindavista Ocean View Condominiums. Lindavista is an ocean view gated condominium complex, located within Las Conchas Resort Development offering 1 and 2 bedroom condos for sale or rent, delivering during summer 2008. Complex features ample parking, a grand pool with palapa, swim up “Aqua bar’, BBQ area, fitness center, and wireless Internet. Facilities for on-site property management and 24-hour security are available, as well as individual storage units that are large enough for an SUV. Interior amenities include ceramic tile, granite countertops, stainless sinks, imported marble features, doubleglazed windows, sliding doors, solid wood doors, Moen fixtures, and prewiring for phone, Internet, and cable. Prices start at $163,900 for a 1 bedroom and $249,900 for a 2 bedroom.

2) Bella Vista Homes.  Sandy Beach’s newest residential community, offers well-appointed homes and condominiums, affordably priced from $139,000 to $269,000. This gated and secure residential community surrounds a glistening pool, fitness and fun center, large patio adorned with a palapa, sitting area, BBQ, and beautiful ocean and golf course views. Featured home and condominiums include 2-4 bedroom floor plans and 2-3 bedroom condominium models. The respected local builder knows what you want in a home or condominium: quality, functionality, and affordability. Bella Vista offers just that with close proximity to beaches, shopping, and restaurants. Golf is right across the street.

Higher-priced:

Luna Blanca is an oceanfront luxury condominium resort and is located along the La Pinta Estuary and Playa Miramar Beach of Puerto Peñasco. Delivered during 2007 this resort has it all. With only 7 units left for sale, now is the time to purchase here. Luna Blanca offers 2br/2.5ba condominiums, 3br/3ba villas & 4br+ penthouses, starting at $680,000. Interior features include oversized marble tiles, high quality stainless steel appliances, and granite kitchen. Resort amenities include 11,000+sf infinity edge pool, lounges, day beds, cabanas, and Jacuzzis. Concierge and Internet onsite. Ownership here includes a Lifetime Golf Package!

Email Heidi Wosak at heidiwosak@century21penasco.com.