BajaNomad - Rancho Costa Verde

Rancho Costa Verde

Nasuscook - 11-21-2019 at 06:14 PM

Hello friends,
I am new to this forum and this is my first post. I’m looking for some information, experiences or thoughts on owning property in Rancho Costa Verde just south of San Filipe.
I was just down there for the first time and absolutely loved everything about San Filipe. My husband has been many of times.
Any thoughts, recommendations and experiences will be greatly appreciated!
Thank you

advrider - 11-21-2019 at 08:11 PM

I like SF as well, some people don't care for it. Are you looking at a lot or buying a place? Have you looked at El Dorado ranch? There are some good deals to be had there. For the price of a house I'm not sure I would build from scratch. I been in Rancho Costa Verda, only driven by a few times.

Nasuscook - 11-21-2019 at 08:24 PM

I am looking at a lot and to have a home built on it. I have seen some of the homes that have been built and have met with some of the contractors. The people that I’ve spoke with that live at Rancho Crosta Verde seem to really like it. I’m hoping that everything is on the up and up. Thank you so much for getting back with me on your thoughts.

freediverbrian - 11-21-2019 at 08:24 PM

I would recommend going to the rancho at different times of year, hot summer , windy winter before you make a decision I love the area ,have a place in Gonzaga but one time there in fall is not good representation to make a decision on.

Nasuscook - 11-21-2019 at 08:26 PM

Good thought. I’m not too fond of super humid hot weather but I guess that’s why it’s a good idea to keep a place back home (in California) during the hot summer

MMc - 11-21-2019 at 09:41 PM

I would rent for a year before you purchase and build.
First rule of owning property in Baja do not invest more than you are can walk away from.
I would check with a lawyer before you purchase anything. this should be your lawyer not the real estates lawyer.

David K - 11-21-2019 at 11:05 PM

Search Baja Nomad for other Costa Verde posts. Wilderone had a good review, as I recall.
My observation on their literature was that they were less than honest on its location and drivetime from San Felipe... that's all. It is near 100° from July to October and humid in August and September. Very cold on winter evenings. Wind can be any month with sudden, strong ones in the summer.
Spend more time in the area so you are sure. Join the South Campos Amigos Facebook group to hear what other residents of that coast are saying.

PaulW - 11-22-2019 at 08:31 AM

Costa Verde exit from Hwy 5 is at KM52.5. Then there is a dirt road to where homes are on the coast. That means it is at least 40 miles to shopping in San Felipe. We find that drive is poor due to dips and bad surface. However times are changing with the new pavement for the really bad sections and things have improved the drive slightly.
Many people living that far south get together for shopping in San Felipe.
Alternatively the subdivisions north of San Felipe have local shopping and restaurants without going 7 to 10 miles to town.
And of course there are pockets of acceptable housing in town and you can find them with broker help, however security in town is unacceptable for most people

Rancho Costa Verde threads on Nomad

David K - 11-22-2019 at 09:43 AM

3-16-2013: http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=66202

4-19-2013: http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=66778

3-10-2015: http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=78011

Welcome to the forum!

AKgringo - 11-22-2019 at 10:09 AM

I am considering several communities for a part time home, but my choices are further south. Having said that, if I came across a great deal on a great place near San Felipe, I am sure I would be happy there!

I am 72, and have spent most of my years in the construction trade. At this point in my life I will be looking for something that is complete, or requires minor improvements or remodeling to suite my needs.

I hope you find what you are looking for, and keep us posted as you learn more!

wilderone - 11-22-2019 at 01:39 PM

I did go on one of their tours. Rancho Costa Verde is pretty isolated. If you like what San Felipe offers - restaurants, shopping, grocery stores, sandy beaches, music, etc. - you won't find that at Rancho Costa Verde. The beach there was all cobblestone, and you could see where storm water would flow through the property into the gulf. If you really like the idea of living in that area, I'd opt for a home already built in El Dorado, or for a lot less money, check out what might be available at El Coloradito (just south of Rch C Verde). Or one of the nice condos close to town. Better yet, Airbnb a place at El Dorado whenever you want to go. I know it seems exciting and all to own a second home in Mexico, but do you really want to tie yourself to that one place year after year? And despite what I'm sure they told you - that it's going to be the next Cabo San Lucas - that's nonsense. No airport, no supporting infrastructure, no nothing. If that were even remotely true, San Felipe would already be that.

BajaTed - 11-22-2019 at 01:45 PM

try Puerto Penasco too, don't fall in love so quick with one region

dtbushpilot - 11-22-2019 at 04:53 PM

I've always felt that San Felipe was populated by people that never ventured further before buying a place. With all the beautiful places in Baja San Felipe would be the last place I would want to live....

[Edited on 11-22-2019 by dtbushpilot]

San Felipe defines "super humid hot"

thebajarunner - 11-22-2019 at 05:39 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Nasuscook

Good thought. I’m not too fond of super humid hot weather but I guess that’s why it’s a good idea to keep a place back home (in California) during the hot summer

Better heed advice and rent for a year,
And, spend a summer season there which actually will be about 5 months long.
I love hot weather, but San Felipe is beyond my level of endurance.

BajaBlanca - 11-22-2019 at 07:10 PM

welcome to bajanomad!

we have lived here 13 years and the hardest part of this forum is seeing how many believe they are buying a dream home only to have dreams fizzle.

Rent for a year and then build. The lots and the opportunity are not going anywhere.

advrider - 11-22-2019 at 08:39 PM

A lot of good advice, I did a little research on the place and there may be some title issues? I have owned a cabin the the sierra's of California for 20 years and I find we limit our travel to the surrounding area when our cabin is open, it's a summer cabin because of the snow.
We were looking at buying in baja' but have decided to rent and do the VRBO thing for a few years to see if we want to buy? I own three houses and don't really want anymore up keep' and for what rent is in most areas it's not worth building or buying for us.

Nasuscook - 11-22-2019 at 08:49 PM

Thank you all so much for your comments, suggestions, experiences & encouragement. My husband has decided to purchase the lot in Rancho Costa Verde. This is a dream of his as he has been to San Filipe and south many of times. I will support him in this new venture with an open mind and an understanding that…...
Don’t invest money that you cannot afford to lose.
The painted picture is always beautiful at the first sight but in the real world, the beauty lies within & if you are truly happy.
And, last but not least…… Always have a back up plan and a place to go during the rough times of the year.

Oh and by the way, I am in my early 50s so I have a few more years to work. But after 33 years of marriage, I must admit I would enjoy some quality time alone while my husband is relaxing and fishing in Rancho Costa Verde. 😉

Susan

Nasuscook - 11-22-2019 at 08:55 PM

Advrider,
Thank you for that information, I will definitely verify the information on the title. If you own a summer cabin in the Sierra’s you might live close to me. I’m just about an hour and a half from Tahoe.

An hour and a half from Tahoe?

AKgringo - 11-22-2019 at 09:02 PM

Me too! A little less actually, I am over the hill to the west in Nevada County.

advrider - 11-22-2019 at 09:26 PM

LOL,I'm in Sutter Creek and our cabin is in Kirkwood. I will be 50 next year and retiring with the plan of some quality time with the wife in Baja! I'm sure you will love having a vacation house on the beach.

MMc - 11-22-2019 at 10:41 PM

Get a lawyer now! If there are issues with title do not buy!!! The land might be part of a master fideo, if it is you will not have clear title until all the land is sold. Please get a lawyer. Understand what you are getting into, before you give anybody money. If you need a name just ask.

BajaRat - 11-23-2019 at 08:25 AM

What MMc said, and once you part with your cash that’s it.
Tell your husband that this is not a section of Baja known for fishing either .
Rent , look around. Like Blanca said, nothing is going anywhere
Quite the opposite, many heyday residents are getting older and moving closer to medical care.
All the best. Lionel :cool:

wilderone - 11-23-2019 at 01:25 PM

I see that the casitas are ready to be rented next year - try that for a season or two. Lots will always be for sale. There maybe resales at Rcho CV now that nobody told you about. First check out other finished residences available for sale now.

https://www.point2homes.com/MX/Real-Estate-Listings/Baja-Cal...

meme - 11-24-2019 at 10:21 AM

I would first talk to the people who are selling out in RCV before buying anything there.

Lee - 11-24-2019 at 04:54 PM

Couple things I add.

Every time someone posts don't invest more than you can walk away from, or lose, I think they have lots of money -- and losing thousands to a bad investment in Baja would warrant a shrug.

It must be my attitude. I don't gamble and wouldn't sleep at night if there was a remote chance I would lose money on a real estate purchase. Not $1,000, not $50,000. Not going to happen.

Other thing is this. Don't build on land you don't own with your own fidecomiso. Get an RV before you do that. I know it's done and posts here imply that getting into a long term land lease is safe. Or, I read, someone is selling a home they've had a lease on for many years and the land owner is an established family, etc.

You have no legal recourse in Mexico if a land owner decides to break a lease, and tells everyone to move. The property is now worthless.

Anyone here posting that anyone thinking of buying in Baja should rent first, or spend time in the area you are thinking of buying in, is absolutely correct. Resales are difficult and it might be a long time before you get your money back.

If you have money to burn, and your attitude going in is you can walk away from thousands of dollars, have at it.

Check your u2u.

advrider - 11-24-2019 at 06:01 PM

Lee, I think you make a good point. I have a forest service lease that I was not sure about buying, but that was in the US, and for 20 years it's worked fine. The wife and I talked about buying in Mexico but found rent was so cheap it wasn't worth the risk! I'm not rich enough to walk away from money.

Paco Facullo - 11-24-2019 at 06:26 PM

Quote: Originally posted by wilderone

https://www.point2homes.com/MX/Real-Estate-Listings/Baja-Cal...

HaHaHa, went to that website and saw that most of those listings are years and years old... Speaks volumes ..................

Nasuscook - 11-24-2019 at 10:37 PM

Ugghhhh
I want to thank each and everyone of you for your comments and thoughts. I definitely am serious with my questions and have had anxiety over this whole issue of purchasing. With that said, my husband has decided to purchase a lot in Rancho Costa Verde. No I did not have money to lose as with most people. Although the lot was only $23,000, it is still a lot. My husband did purchase it with his money and I’m hoping that it’s a good investment. Whether he chooses to build or not I know he will enjoy his time and Sam Felipe. Although, I am hoping that this is on the up and up and we can build a nice second home to enjoy as a family.

bajabuddha - 11-24-2019 at 11:34 PM

Nice finish to the thread.

To quote a famous line from Blazing Saddles,

"You're on yer own, Sherriff!"

Lee - 11-25-2019 at 10:22 AM

Quote: Originally posted by lencho

Quote: Originally posted by Nasuscook

Although the lot was only $23,000, it is still a lot. My husband did purchase it with his money and I’m hoping that it’s a good investment

Huh? Four days ago you were asking whether it would be a good idea and now you say he's already purchased it? :wow:

Yup. Timeline sure looks a little kooky.

Still don't advise anyone moving quickly in business transactions down here. While I know a few great business transactions, I know more scams and gringo fleecing.

David K - 11-25-2019 at 10:52 AM

Something is fishy, indeed.
Why ask for advice and not wait for the answers?

Nasuscook - 11-25-2019 at 05:17 PM

Sorry everyone.....nothing fishy going on. I posted my questions in hopes I could get some information. Yes I did and I wanna thank everyone even those who think I’m not being honest. I have had nothing but anxiety over this. I wanted to wait and try some of the things everyone suggested ( go visit in the different times of the year, spend a week on vacation or rent from a month to really see what it would be like). Unfortunately my husband wanted to do this now and not wait. I’m sure we’ve made the wrong decision and will regret it as I’m already doing. This is not my first mistake in life and I’m sure it won’t be the last. At least I didn’t spend money that I haven’t worked for or had to borrow and this could be a expensive lesson to learn. While we were visiting RCV we spoke with quite a few of the home owners who were living there now and said they loved it. I just don’t know what to think but I do know that we will not look into building anything until I’ve done more research.

Also I apparently misspelled Felipe. My mistake but that’s what it was.....a mistake. Not me being dishonest or misrepresentation myself. My hopes are that someday this might have been a good decision but until then I will continue to ask questions and hope to get feedback. The good, the bad and the ugly!

Thank you,
Susan

mtgoat666 - 11-25-2019 at 05:22 PM

Do not buy. Do not build. Just rent.

bajabuddha - 11-25-2019 at 05:43 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Nasuscook

While we were visiting RCV we spoke with quite a few of the home owners who were living there now and said they loved it.

REALLY?

Quote: Originally posted by Man_With_Gas

Quote: Originally posted by mtgoat666

Do not buy. Do not build. Just rent.

Good solid accurate advice.

....... just a tad late, wouldn't you think? :smug:

RocketJSquirrel - 11-26-2019 at 05:55 PM

As the others say: Rent for a year FIRST.

Partly to see if you really like it, partly to see what issues pop up and partly and most importantly, to hear the stories about what went wrong where and what's going wrong where. While I admit much of that will/can come from bar stool conversation - it is still helpful to know what is going on.

After while, you'll figure out what is BS and what might be real. It's not easy to know that when you are new. Some of the most seemingly reliable people, can be as nutty as Bullwinkle off on a wild theory. But it can take a while for that to show up.

[Edited on 11-27-2019 by RocketJSquirrel]

advrider - 11-26-2019 at 06:57 PM

Everyone said El Dorado ranch was a scam, I'm sure there are issues, but many seem happy? Everyone has their own idea of paradise and what they will do to get it. I hope it all goes good and hope you will keep us posted.

Don Pisto - 11-26-2019 at 07:07 PM

two centavos.....although its been a few years my cuate and i have driven down to check out the progress our take on it was if you're oceanfront its no different than any of the south campos.....back from the beach is like living in a sand wash. that doesn't mean someone else doesn't find it attractive! anyone know if the clubhouse got built?

Nasuscook - 11-26-2019 at 08:11 PM

Thanks!
I’m appreciating all of your replies. I’m hoping that in time I can post some positive results and reviews of my own. As nervous and full of anxiety as I’ve been......I’m looking forward to seeing what might become. Hopping for some uneventful yet pleasant experiences. ❤️

Nasuscook - 11-26-2019 at 08:17 PM

Don Pisto...
Yes the clubhouse has been built. Looks super nice. Enjoyed some good times with others interested and current owners. Looking forward to the Casitas being ready for staying in.

mjs - 11-27-2019 at 08:22 AM

Welcome to the South Campos. There are some nice homes in RCV and it obviously suits some people's tastes.

Now that you have a lot, be sure to pick a good contractor. Be sure and ask lots of questions, visit their previous projects and talk to the owners. Beware that some of the recommended contractors will have referral or kickback arrangements while others may subcontract the project to another local contractor. Go talk to the several contractors in San Felipe directly.

And make you payments conditioned on certain completion milestones. Plan to make many trips to the site during construction, at least every couple of weeks. Would be even better if you could rent a place nearby. You're going to have to be your own building inspection specialist. This will require work and research on your part especially if you're not familiar with construction. And don't expect the local construction practices to be the same as your stateside area.

P.S. Hope you bought on a raised lot. The clubhouse and pool got filled with mud during a storm last year.

RocketJSquirrel - 11-27-2019 at 09:14 AM

It's okay to make crazy decisions, as long as your eyes are wide open. There certainly are wonderful choices to be made. Some good. Some... not so good.

[Edited on 11-27-2019 by RocketJSquirrel]

David K - 11-27-2019 at 10:31 AM

Quote: Originally posted by mjs

P.S. Hope you bought on a raised lot. The clubhouse and pool got filled with mud during a storm last year.

OMG!!!

meme - 11-28-2019 at 08:54 AM

The whole place appears to be in a river bed. Rocks , rocks & more rocks. Some could not get into or out of their homes after last big storm. Have friends that bought there but now sorry they did.