Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - The process for buying a home in Mexico is a little different from buying a home in the U.S., Canada, etc.; however, it generally includes the same sorts of elements within the process itself:

• Selecting a trustworthy real estate agent within a qualified AMPI agency
• Searching for a place you would like to call "home"
• Making an offer and any counter-offers
• Funding the purchase
• Dealing with an agent who'll ensure the closing is as free of complications as possible
• Receiving the keys to your new home

In preparation for a home search, though, it's good to consider your "wants" and "needs." Whether a specific item is a "want" (desirable) or a "need" (must have) differs greatly by individual and how they will be utilizing their home, but here is a general sample of questions we often ask our clients to get a feeling for their general requirements:

• How will you use your new property?
• How often will you visit, or do you plan to live here? Are you planning to rent your home?
• Where do you usually stay in Vallarta? Is that the general area where you'd like to live?
• What amenities are important to you?
• Will you have a pet living with you?
• What budget works best for you?
• Is a house or condo more practical for you in Puerto Vallarta?
• Do you plan on having a vehicle here in Puerto Vallarta?

The answers to the questions above give a general guideline as to what you are seeking. We then ask more specific questions. Here are some sample questions to keep in mind:

• Is a specific view (ocean, marina, jungle, etc.) important to you?
• Do you tend to prefer smaller or larger condo buildings... or a house?
• What is the minimum number of bedrooms that you would like to have in your new home?
• Do you prefer contemporary architecture or a more traditional Mexican style?
• Do you like to cook? Is a more modern kitchen important to you?
• Are you ok with stairs, hills, etc.?
• Do you have specific budgeting requirements regarding a home owner's association?
• Do you prefer/need a home that's being sold furnished?

Armed with your "wants" and "needs" will make the process of honing in on your dream home or dream vacation home much easier and less stressful of a process!

One additional item that should be noted is the importance of dealing with a real estate agent from a well known AMPI-affiliated agency. AMPI is, essentially, the national association of realtors here in Mexico. Agents affiliated with AMPI have access to all of the listings for sale in our amazing Bay area (including new developments). There are a number of great agencies here with solid, trustworthy agents with whom you can choose to work. Take the time to meet with an agent or two to find someone you trust. After all, the individual you choose will be the person you entrust to assist in the search (make sure that they listen to your "wants" and "needs"!) and ensure that the process flows smoothly.

Making the move to Puerto Vallarta (and nearby communities) can be made a lot easier with a checklist in place and a solid real estate agent by your side. There are a lot of great properties available right now... maybe it's time for you to start your search and plan your move to paradise!

Tropicasa Realty Agents Grace Ramirez and Jeff Bates contributed to this article.

Since 1997, Wayne Franklin and his team at Tropicasa Realty have been a trusted name in Puerto Vallarta real estate. Tropicasa Realty is the region's representative for "The Leading Agents of the World" and with over 100 years of combined experience in real estate, all agents of the company are affiliated with AMPI. Wayne Franklin or any member of his knowledgeable team can be contacted in-person at their Romantic Zone Office - Pulpito 145-A at Olas Altas or in their San Marino Office - San Marino Hotel at Rodolfo Gomez 111-4. While in PV they can be reached at (322) 222-6505 or by calling 866-978-5539 (Toll-Free) from the U.S.

Click HERE to learn more about Tropicasa Realty, or visit tropicasa.com.