Book - Your New Life Overseas – Mexico - Kathleen Peddicord
Retire Richly. Retirement Lifestyle. Your Live Overseas in Mexico. Kathleen Peddicord. Mazatlan Mexico Bench Building
Your New Life Overseas in Mexico (Mazatlan) by Kathleen Peddicord falls into the genre of relocation or retirement guides, specifically aimed at individuals that seek to move overseas or retire overseas, often to enhance retirement lifestyle. Mexico has consistently been the number one destination for expats and retirees looking to move or retire overseas, with estimations ranging from one to two million Americans living there. Retirement lifestyle appeal stems from its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and a low cost of living, coupled with geographical proximity and cultural familiarity. Within this popular country, Peddicord highlights Mazatlán as a standout option, particularly for those seeking the unique combination of real city living and beautiful beaches that may provide an attractive retirement lifestyle. Peddicord addresses key aspects of the relocation process and daily life, moving from the broader reasons for choosing Mexico and Mazatlán to the specifics of a home, living costs, residency requirements, retirement healthcare, and potential challenges.
RATINGS FOR NEW LIFE OVERSEAS IN MEXICO, BY KATHLEEN PEDDICORD
Goodreads 4.1/5.0
Amazon 3.1/5.0
YOUR NEW LIFE OVERSEAS IN MEXICO INTRODUCES AFFORDABLE, VIBRANT PLACE TO MOVE OR RETIRE OVERSEAS
A Vibrant City on the Beach. The book highlights Mazatlán's unique appeal as one of the few places worldwide offering true city living right on the beach. You get a real city of half a million people, featuring a walkable colonial center that has undergone a significant renaissance. This means access to cultural offerings like a beautifully restored theater, hundreds of shops, and businesses. Simultaneously, you're minutes from twenty miles of beautiful, swimmable beaches and the world's longest boardwalk. It's a destination where you don't have to choose between urban amenities and seaside life.
Exceptional Value and Affordability. A major draw presented in the book is Mazatlán's low cost of living, positioning it as a global bargain. The current strength of the US dollar against the Mexican peso significantly enhances buying power for many expenses. Beyond housing, you could potentially live comfortably on as little as $900 per month for core expenses like groceries, utilities, and local transport. Dining out is noted as one of the city’s best bargains, even at top restaurants. Property, especially peso-priced options, can also offer substantial savings due to the exchange rate.
Accessible Move and Residency. The book emphasizes the ease of moving to and gaining residency in Mexico, particularly Mazatlán. It's simpler to reach than most countries for Americans, and entering as a tourist for up to six months at a time is straightforward. The residency application process is described as notably easy, even allowing qualification based on low savings thresholds. English-speaking agents are available, and documents often don't require translation. Driving down from the US border is presented as a hassle-free option, and bringing pets is also relatively easy.
“Mexico is running a sale ... fifty percent off!”
“warm weather, beautiful beaches, and a low cost of living”
YOUR NEW LIFE IN MEXICO COVERS MANY ASPECTS OF MOVING, LIVING OR RETIRING OVERSEAS
Residency Made Easy: The book details the relatively straightforward process for North Americans to obtain legal residency. Visitors can stay for up to six months at a time on a tourist visa, renewable by leaving and re-entering the country. Temporary residency requires proof of monthly income ($1,300 USD) or savings ($21,500 USD), while permanent residency requires higher thresholds ($2,200/month income or $85,000 savings). Mexico notably allows the use of savings to qualify and has low qualification thresholds compared to some other countries. The application is done at a Mexican consulate in the home country, and the book notes the process was easier in Mexico than in several other Latin American countries Lee Harrison experienced.
Cost of Living Insights: The book highlights Mexico's current status as a "global bargain" due to the strong US dollar. While Mazatlán isn't the absolute cheapest place in Mexico, it offers an excellent lifestyle bargain. A sample budget (excluding housing) is provided, totalling $900 USD per month, covering groceries, entertainment, utilities, and transportation. Food costs can be kept low by buying local rather than imported items, and dining out is considered a bargain.
Accessible and Affordable Healthcare: Mexico's healthcare system is described as potentially excellent, with first-rate technology and low prices. Expats are likely to use the private hospital system, which offers higher service levels, modern facilities, and English-speaking staff, often paying out-of-pocket due to significantly lower costs (around one-third of US costs). International health insurance is an option, as are local programs. The ease of obtaining many prescription drugs without a prescription is also highlighted. Specific well-regarded hospitals in Mazatlán are named (Sharp and Marina).
Housing Strategies and Purchase Process: A key piece of advice is to rent before buying to fully understand the dynamics of different neighborhoods at all times of the day. Furnished rentals are recommended for the initial trial period. For those ready to buy, the book confirms that foreigners can legally own property but must use a bank trust (fideicomiso) or a Mexican corporation for properties within the restricted zone near the coast. The fideicomiso is recommended for personal use, with details provided on setup/annual costs and ownership rights. The purchase process involves a notario (a highly qualified attorney) who handles due diligence and title transfers. Closing costs are discussed, noting they were averaging about 3% of the US dollar purchase value at the time of writing due to exchange rates. A crucial warning is given regarding ejido land, which cannot be legally sold and poses significant risks.
The Unique Appeal of Mazatlán: The city is presented as one of the few places globally offering miles of uncrowded beaches within city limits, allowing residents to enjoy both urban amenities and coastal living. Its historic center has seen significant restoration, rivalling the beaches in drawing attention. It's described as an authentic Mexican city with a sizeable expat community, allowing individuals to choose their desired level of immersion.
Distinct Neighborhoods: The book breaks down Mazatlán into specific areas, each with its own character and appeal:
Centro Histórico: Ideal for those wanting a more traditional Mexican experience, walkable, with cultural offerings like the Teatro Ángela Peralta, close to Olas Altas beach. Property options range from fixer-uppers to restored homes.
The Malecón Sector: Offers upscale, full-amenity living along the beachfront road, featuring the longest boardwalk in the Americas.
The Marina District: Built around waterways and golf courses, suitable for boaters or those seeking waterfront living at a more affordable price than oceanfront properties. It can be more isolated in its northern part.
Sábalo Country: Quieter than the adjacent Zona Dorada, with exclusive residential areas right on the water and less expensive single-family homes a few blocks inland.
Cerritos and Nuevo Mazatlán: Located beyond the Marina District, offering a more tranquil, high-end resort setting with on-site amenities, though farther from the city center.
PERSPECTIVE OF KATHLEEN PEDDICORD, AUTHOR YOUR LIFE OVERSEAS IN MAZATLAN MEXICO
The book draws on the expertise of Kathleen Peddicord, an experienced author on overseas living. Co-author Lee Harrison brings a powerful personal perspective, having successfully navigated relocation to multiple countries (Ecuador, Uruguay, Colombia) before choosing Mazatlán. Harrison's story highlights a shift from seeking significant "culture shock" to appreciating the convenience and cultural familiarity Mexico offers, especially its proximity to the US for visits from family and access to familiar stores like Home Depot. His experience validates the ease of Mexico's residency process. The authors collectively present a strong case for Mazatlán as an attractive destination, grounding their arguments in practical detail and lived experience. While acknowledging potential challenges, their overall perspective is decidedly positive and encouraging for those considering the move.
“easy to become a resident”
“easy and fast immigration”
YOUR LIFE OVERSEAS IN MEXICO PROVIDES LOCAL, ACTIONABLE INSIGHT TO LIVE OR RETIRE OVERSEAS
Depth and Breadth of Coverage: It covers a remarkably wide range of essential topics for anyone considering moving abroad, from the general appeal of the country and city to granular details like banking, healthcare access, driver's licenses, and even bringing pets or guns.
Practical, Actionable Advice: The book doesn't just describe; it instructs. It provides specific steps for the residency process, outlines the property purchase timeline and fees, lists addresses for government offices, and suggests strategies like renting first or hedging against currency fluctuations.
Detailed Local Insights: The in-depth descriptions of Mazatlán's distinct neighborhoods provide valuable context for choosing a location within the city, going beyond generic tourist information. Mentioning specific local businesses like Mega supermarket and recommended restaurants adds a layer of local usefulness.
Inclusion of Real-Life Experiences: The "Success Stories" section, featuring Greg and Jodie and Lee and Julie (one of the co-authors), makes the concept of moving to Mazatlán tangible and relatable. These narratives illustrate the motivations, challenges, and eventual satisfaction of relocating.
Addressing Common Concerns: The extensive "Frequently Asked Questions" section directly tackles many potential hesitations or practical questions prospective expats might have, including those related to citizenship, voting, banking, and even legal issues.
Focus on Value: By detailing the cost of living and highlighting the advantage offered by the exchange rate at the time of writing, the book effectively makes the case for Mazatlán as an affordable lifestyle option.
YOUR LIFE OVERSEAS IN MEXICO STATES LEGAL FACTS AND FINANCIAL AMOUNTS THAT MAY BE OUTDATED
Time Sensitivity: The most significant weakness is the explicit reliance on exchange rates and cost figures from the time of writing (2017). Costs like closing fees, rental prices, utility estimates, and the income/savings thresholds for residency are presented based on specific, likely changing, values and exchange rates. This dates the concrete financial data and requires readers to independently verify current figures.
Limited Comparative Analysis within Mexico: While the book establishes why Mexico is popular and why Mazatlán is a good choice within Mexico, it doesn't offer a detailed comparison between Mazatlán and other popular expat destinations within the country (e.g., Lake Chapala, San Miguel de Allende, Puerto Vallarta, Playa del Carmen), which might be helpful for readers still deciding on a specific location in Mexico.
Potential for Bias: As a book specifically about living in Mazatlán, there's an inherent focus on the positives. While a section on downsides exists, the overall tone is promotional, which is expected in a guide but could lead to a slightly less critical view than a purely objective analysis.
Lack of External Citations: The book relies heavily on the authors' expertise and anecdotal evidence. While compelling, there is no mention of external sources, studies, or official data cited within the excerpts to support claims about healthcare quality, safety statistics (not discussed in excerpts, but common in such guides), or other broad statements.
“live comfortably ... on as little as $900 per month”
“unique appeal ... is city living ... on the beach”
WHO SHOULD READ YOUR LIFE OVERSEAS IN MEXICO BY KATHLEEN PEDDICORD?
This book is primarily aimed at Americans and Canadians who are considering relocating, retiring, or purchasing a second home or investment property in Mexico. More specifically, it targets those who are interested in Mazatlán as a potential destination, drawn by the idea of a combination city and beach lifestyle in a location that is easily accessible from North America. It would appeal to individuals or couples, including retirees or those seeking a lifestyle change. While accessible to a general audience without requiring prior knowledge of Mexico or relocation processes, the level of detail provided makes it particularly valuable for those who are seriously researching Mazatlán as a viable option for full-time living, snowbird, or investment.
HOW DOES YOUR LIFE OVERSEAS IN MEXICO COMPARE TO OTHER RETIRE OVERSEAS BOOKS?
This book fits within the broad category of international relocation and retirement guides. It is part of a larger series "Your New Life Overseas" by Kathleen Peddicord. It differs from other books in several ways:
Exclusive Focus on One City: Unlike books that survey many destinations in Mexico or globally, this guide provides an unusually deep and detailed look at a single city, Mazatlán. This allows for specific information about neighborhoods, local amenities, and city-specific procedures.
Personal Stories and Co-Author Expertise: The inclusion of detailed success stories from expats who have made the move, including the personal journey of co-author Lee Harrison, provides a unique, relatable, and credible perspective that goes beyond typical factual reporting.
Practical Depth: The book stands out for its level of practical detail on processes like buying property (explaining the fideicomiso and notario roles thoroughly), navigating residency applications (including specific document requirements and consulate tips), and understanding local costs and budgeting.
Addressing the "What's Not to Like": Explicitly including a section on potential challenges and downsides adds a layer of realism often glossed over in purely promotional materials, providing a more balanced view.
Timely Economic Context: At the time of publication, the focus on the advantage offered by the strong US dollar and strategies to leverage it provided timely and specific financial advice.
NEW YOUR LIFE OVERSEAS IN MEXICO - KATHLEEN PEDDICORD - RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE - CONCLUSION
"Your New Life in Mexico (Mazatlán)" by Kathleen Peddicord with Lee Harrison is a highly practical and informative guide for anyone considering relocating or retiring to Mexico or to this specific Mexican city. It effectively makes the case for Mazatlán as a compelling option, combining attractive lifestyle factors like city-beach living, a vibrant culture, and warm winter weather with the practical benefits of affordability, ease of access, and a relatively simple residency process. The book excels in providing detailed, actionable information across a wide spectrum of topics relevant to a move, from finding a home and managing costs to navigating bureaucratic processes and understanding healthcare options.
While acknowledging potential challenges like inefficiency or summer heat, the book frames these within the broader context of the many positives. The inclusion of personal expat stories adds significant value and relatability. The primary limitation is the time-sensitive nature of the cost and financial data presented, requiring readers to seek updated information. However, the fundamental guidance on processes like buying property, obtaining residency, and understanding daily life remains a valuable resource. Overall, it provides a comprehensive and encouraging roadmap specifically tailored to making Mazatlán your new home, strongly recommending a preliminary visit to ensure it's the right fit. The authors compellingly argue that the current conditions (at the time of writing) present a tempting window of opportunity to make the move.
“can return easily to the United States to use Medicare”
“Health care ... can be excellent ... and low price”
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS OF NEW YOUR LIFE OVERSEAS IN MAZATLAN MEXICO BY KATHLEEN PEDDICORD
How can I legally live in Mexico if I want to move there?
The good news is that Mexico offers quite a bit of flexibility for foreigners looking to spend time there. As a tourist from the United States, Canada, or many European countries, you can enter Mexico and stay for up to six months (180 days) simply by filling out a form upon arrival. Each time you leave and return, you get a fresh 180 days. This "perpetual tourist" approach is easy for exploring but has downsides, such as requiring you to leave the country every six months and making it difficult to open a standard bank account. Note that if arriving by air as a tourist, you might need to show proof of onward travel within the 180 days.
For longer stays or more permanent plans, you'll need legal residency. Mexico makes this process relatively straightforward. You can qualify for temporary residency based on provable monthly income (US$1,300 plus $500 per dependent); investment an operating business (~US$90,000+); investment in real estate (~ US$170,000+); savings in lieu of the monthly income (~US$21,500+).
Temporary residency is typically granted for up to four years. If your plan is to stay beyond four years, and you meet the financial requirements, you can apply for permanent residency from the start. Qualification for permanent residency requires proof of monthly income (US$2,200+); savings in lieu of the monthly income (~US$85,000+).
The application process usually begins at a Mexican consulate in your home country. You'll fill out an online visa application form and gather required documents, such as your passport and proof of income or savings. A significant advantage is that documents presented at the consulate often do not require translation or apostille certification. Consulate agents are typically bilingual. Once you have your resident visa, you must enter Mexico specifically as a resident (not a tourist) and exchange your temporary entry stamp for a resident card within thirty days. Obtaining legal residency also allows you to import your household effects duty-free.
What will it really cost me to live in Mazatlán?
One of the major draws to Mexico currently is the strong US dollar against the Mexican peso, which makes many expenses a "global bargain". While not the absolute cheapest place in Mexico, Mazatlán offers an attractive lifestyle relative to its cost.
Housing. The recommendation is to rent for a month or two before buying to test different areas. Furnished rentals for this trial period can range from $1,000 to $2,800 USD per month. Prices may drop in summer, but not dramatically due to Mexican tourists. For longer-term commitments (six months or more), unfurnished rentals are an option. A nice three- to four-bedroom house in a good area can be found for $700 to $900 USD per month, offering great value for the space, although they may be a few blocks from the beach. Unfurnished apartments near the coast are less common. If buying, you can eliminate rental costs, only paying for maintenance. Buying can be a good strategy even part-time, as you could rent out your property when you're not using it to cover carrying costs or supplement local expenses. Purchase prices vary, with fixer-uppers in the historic center starting as low as $30,000-$40,000 USD and restored homes from $150,000 USD. The strong dollar can offer additional buying advantages, particularly from Canadian sellers.
Other Living Expenses. You could live comfortably on as little as $900 USD per month excluding housing. A package for landline phone, cable TV, and Internet is around $35 USD per month. Water, sewer, and household gas costs are negligible. Electricity costs vary significantly depending on air conditioning use; it's much higher in the hot summer months (July-October) when temperatures are regularly ninety degrees and warmer. Summer bills could be three to four times higher than in winter. Food costs depend on where and what you buy. Shopping at local markets for produce and avoiding imported items can keep costs down, as familiar US brands come at a premium. Mega supermarket is a good option for a mix of domestic and imported goods, including some US brands. Entertainment can be a large variable expense. Dining out is generally a bargain, with a high-end dinner for two costing less than $70 USD, while fixed-price lunches downtown can be just a few dollars. Free activities like walking the beaches and boardwalk are abundant. A sample starter budget (excluding housing, trips home, healthcare) totals $900 USD per month, including $170 for groceries, $425 for entertainment, $100 for electricity (with some AC), $100 for transportation (taxis/buses), and other smaller costs.
Banking: Opening a bank account usually requires at least temporary residency, though CIBanco is noted as an exception for foreigners without residency. Mexican banks offer online services and potentially attractive CD interest rates (like 6.25% overnight or over 8% for long-term CDs) but holding pesos carries exchange-rate risk.
What are the healthcare options and how good is it?
Mexico offers potentially excellent healthcare with modern technology, skilled doctors (some English-speaking), and significantly lower costs compared to the United States. Many Americans already travel to Mexico for affordable medical care.
Private Healthcare System: More than 65% of hospitals in Mexico are private. These facilities generally provide higher service levels, are more modern, have shorter wait times, and are where English is spoken more often. Expats typically use this private system.
Payment and Insurance: While private hospitals are common, private insurance is rare. Most patients, including expats, pay out-of-pocket, which is feasible because the costs are so low. Comparable care in the US can be three times more expensive. Dental work and cosmetic surgery are typically 20% to 25% of the cost in the US. You can purchase international health insurance policies from companies like Cigna, Aetna, Bupa, Globality, or Expatplus. Some plans offer international coverage. Note that policies may not be available if you apply after age 75, but existing policies usually continue if you pay premiums. There are also local Mexican health insurance programs offered by hospitals, Mexican insurance companies (like AXA), and banks, but these policies typically do not cover care outside of Mexico. The Focus on Mexico Group Plan by Best Doctors is mentioned as a potentially good and affordable choice for those living in Mexico at least six months a year, offering international coverage starting at $112 per month.
Prescription Drugs: Many medications that require a prescription in the US are available prescription-free and at a much lower cost in Mexican pharmacies. Some pharmacies even have doctor kiosks for consultations. It's helpful to know the generic drug names and associated medical terms in Spanish.
Healthcare Facilities in Mazatlán: Hospital Sharp is considered the best facility, followed by Hospital Marina. Both are well-equipped and have qualified doctors. Hospital Sharp offers an English-speaking concierge and a membership program providing discounts (this is not insurance).
Emergency medical services: 911 emergency service is available in Mazatlán, and Cruz Roja (Red Cross) ambulances are staffed with qualified medical personnel. Private ambulance services linked to clinics have their own direct numbers.
Medicare: A critical point for US retirees is that Medicare does not cover healthcare in Mexico with limited exceptions. To use Medicare benefits, you would need to return to the United States. Keeping your Medicare coverage is recommended as a major medical backup plan. It is possible that some Medigap or Medicare Advantage plans might include international coverage, so it's advised to check their terms.
What should I know about buying property in Mazatlán?
Yes, foreigners can legally buy and own property in Mexico. However, there's a specific rule if you want to purchase within the "restricted zone," which is the area within fifty kilometers (about 31 miles) of the coast or one hundred kilometers (about 62 miles) of the international borders. Since Mazatlán is on the coast, this rule applies.
For property within this restricted zone, foreigners must purchase through either a bank trust, called a fideicomiso, or a Mexican corporation. For an individual buying for personal residential use, the fideicomiso is the recommended path. A Mexican corporation comes with strict accounting and reporting, higher taxes and utility rates, and prohibits personal residential use.
The fideicomiso can be established with any Mexican bank. Initial setup cost is currently about $1,200 USD (charged in pesos). There is an annual maintenance fee of around $500 USD. The bank acts as the trustee, and the buyer is the first beneficiary. You can name a second beneficiary so the property can pass to heirs without probate. A fideicomiso has a term of fifty years, which is renewable. As the beneficiary, you have full ownership rights, including the ability to remodel, rent, or sell the property. The bank performs its own due diligence, adding a layer of confidence that the title is clear. It can offer asset protection similar to a US trust.
The purchase process involves a notario, a highly qualified licensed Mexican attorney appointed by the state governor, who handles all property title transfers. When you decide on a property, the notario provides a provisional purchase/sale agreement (contrato de compraventa), usually requiring a 10% deposit. As a foreigner, you need authorization from the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, involving signing the Calvo Clause, which costs $1,000 and is required for the fideicomiso. The notario checks the title, taxes, fees, and IDs, files a notice with the civil registrar to prevent other transactions, and obtains a certificate of freedom from liens. If clear, they order an appraisal, process the fideicomiso, collect your documents, and arrange the purchase funds. Mexico does not have a formal escrow process. At closing, the notario reads the title in Spanish (a translator is needed if you don't speak Spanish), everyone signs, the buyer pays, and the notario files the title. The whole process typically takes three to five weeks if smooth.
Closing costs are calculated by the notario and were averaging about 3% of the US dollar purchase value due to the strong dollar at the time of writing, as most fees are paid in pesos. Typically, the seller pays the sales commission and capital gains tax, while the buyer is responsible for other fees like acquisition tax (1%), foreign affairs permit, notario fee (0.75%), and various registration fees.
Financing property purchases in Mexico is generally not possible for foreign buyers through institutional financing.
A crucial warning is given about ejido land. This is communal land that cannot legally be sold, even if agents or residents claim otherwise. Buying ejido land can lead to significant problems, including the government challenging or overturning your right to the property.
What about bringing pets and cars to Mazatlán?
Yes, you can bring your pet with you to Mexico with minimal hassle and no quarantine. Your veterinarian needs to sign an International Certificate of Good Health (Form 77-043) and provide proof of recent rabies and distemper immunizations (no more than fifteen days before entry). It's recommended to bring duplicates of these documents.
If you're driving to Mexico from the US or Canada, you are bringing your car with you. To do so, you need a vehicle permit and Mexican insurance. Both can be obtained online. The vehicle permit is valid for the duration of your visa, whether it's a tourist visa or a temporary resident visa. If you become a permanent resident or a citizen, you will need to obtain Mexican license plates or buy a Mexican car.
If you have temporary or permanent resident status, you can ship your household effects duty-free. The source recommends using intlmovers.com and opting for door-to-door service.
Are there specific challenges or downsides to living in Mazatlán?
Inefficiency: Things often don't work as efficiently as in the United States. Interacting with government offices or utility companies often requires lengthy in-person visits, potentially multiple times, instead of quick online or phone transactions. While competition helps with services like cable and internet, the state-run electric company is noted as particularly challenging. Expect lower expectations for efficiency across Mexico and Latin America, though tourist/expat areas like Mazatlán may be slightly better.
Noise: While northern areas can be quiet, the more popular zones with restaurants and nightlife can be noisy. This includes noise from traffic (buses, taxis), loud car radios, partiers, and boardwalk bandstands.
Tourists and Trappings: As a developed tourist destination, Mazatlán has tourists and associated annoyances like street vendors and tour guides. However, these are often concentrated in specific areas (Golden Zone, main plaza of historic center) and can be avoided.
Serving of Wine: A specific, perhaps frustrating, point for red wine drinkers is that some restaurants and waiters may insist on serving red wine ice-cold from the refrigerator.
Hot Summers: While winter weather is ideal, the summer months (July through October) are hot and humid, with average highs around 91 degrees (though locals might claim it feels hotter). Many residents choose to stay indoors more or travel elsewhere during this period.
“popular expat choice and authentic Mexican resort town”
“Mazatlán offers one of the best lifestyle bargains”
ABOUT KATHLEEN PEDDICORD, AUTHOR YOUR NEW LIFE OVERSEAS - MAZATLAN MEXICO
Kathleen Peddicord is Founding Publisher of Live and Invest Overseas, and formerly Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the International Living group. Kathleen Peddicord has written about live-, retire-, invest-, and do-business-overseas topics for more than three decades and is considered an expert on related matters. She has traveled to more than 70 countries, established businesses in 7, and invested in property in 24.
She has appeared often on radio and television and has written innumerable, reports, and essays on where and how you can escape the retirement-tromping economy at home and live like royalty on a modest budget; invest for profits overseas ahead of the crowds; and secure your dream lifestyle in the world’s best destinations.
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