NEVER Live in Mexico WITHOUT an HOA

You may hate homeowners associations where you're living now, but if you're coming to live in Mexico, HOAs are a necessary evil.
In this video I'm going to tell you why, all else equal, I will always choose a home that's part of an HOA when living in Mexico.
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ABOUT ME
I'm Jordan, an American living in Mexico with my Husky, Laska. In January of 2018 I left the US to start traveling Mexico. Since then, I've been making travel videos about my life in Mexico, travel tips, Las Vegas tips videos, and advice for those considering moving abroad.
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[@rassabossa4554]

I have lived in about 8 different places where I am at now. About half were gated. While pleasant and with less noise, being single I felt more lonely in the gated ones. Where I live now is in a small U-shaped place with probably 20 apartments that all face the parking lot. Everyone leaves their doors open for the breeze so our security is everyone seeing what is going on...an inadvertent neighborhood watch. The other thing that keeps the blues away is social activities like pickleball. In the US, I rarely knew my neighbors well or met as many people from other sports

[@marilynpeoples5099]

Totally agree re: living single ( as an expat) As much as I love Costa Rica it’s a hard country to be single in. Mexico ( in my opinion) is a far more interesting country. So much more to do , beyond the usual tourist activities.

[@marilynpeoples5099]

Where are you living that has pickleball?

[@birdsinparadise3113]

I think I meet a lot more people where I live. I came more to say HOA fees should be included in the rent, not extra but then I remember that when I moved into a condo rental the son of the deceased owner, as in didn't really have possession, had a year of back administration fees to pay, plus old electric bill, before anything would be activated (like water etc). So maybe it's better in your own hands, along with power and water, you pay directly, get receipts and no surprises because the owner isn't paying the bills

[@foxmaz]

I only have experience with one HOA in México and it was a building full of gringos and it was a TERRIBLE experience! Never again. If I wanted to be under the thumb of ridiculous rules and idiots making all the decisions, I'd have stayed in my home country. If you can't handle the occasional party and some people selling stuff in the streets, don't move here. I live in an HOA-free Mexican neighborhood and couldn't be happier.

[@stuberry1875]

I couldn’t agree more. I don’t understand why you wouldn’t want to hear street vendors. How else would you get your tamales??

[@foxmaz]

@@stuberry1875 Exactly! And the ice cream man! And the sweet bread guy! And my garrafon water delivery man! And raspados! There are so many perks to living like a normal Mexican here. Couldn't pay me to live in a gated community. Especially one full of gringos bringing their stuffy entitled gringo ways to my world. Hard pass.

[@birdsinparadise3113]

​@@stuberry1875 and water, gas, oranges, ice cream, know when garbage is picked up, and I even recognize the whistle tune of the knife sharpener guy. Never in time to catch him for my scissors but I recognize it

[@RodHardy]

We bought our home in a gated community with an HOA with a monthly fee of approximately 35 USD which covers our water, six day a week garbage collection, street lights and street maintenance, etc. Overall it's a nice community except for all the new home construction being built causes extra noise. Also our HOA does allow loud music so it can get really noisy during parties up to midnight.

[@r.c.salyer3652]

No. 2 rule in Mexico after finding the property you love. Do due diligence on the neighbors, coming back at odd times of day and week and night checking on what it would REALLY be like living there. Are they going to be throwing loud parties until 4 AM 3 out of 4 week ends a month! Remember this is in their culture and you are NOT GOING TO CHANGE THEM, so dont even try! You will be the outlyer, they the norm,. In essense, your property is just a small part of the puzzle, the neighbors and neighbor hood is the more important, bigger picture.

[@r.c.salyer3652]

Boy you live in a dead neighborhood, your neighbors are NOT the partying kind. Parties only going to midnight! Some night clubs down here do not open until 11 PM!

[@LilylilyLily-vf3nw]

Also if you chose to live I. A condo be sure to che k out any AIRBNB’s in the building!! That owner only cares about making money. End of story. You have to live with horrible noise and outright class less people.

[@lawnfreak3543]

I want to be able to walk out of my house and go to the convenience store that's in somebody's house to buy a beer and a pack of cigarettes I don't want to have to leave a f****** gated community to walk all the way to a six

[@birdsinparadise3113]

​@@lawnfreak3543😊. Exactly. I moved from an ocean view condo to a smaller house with a yard and within 3 blocks one way of 6 restaurants, 3 blocks to mercado and more restaurants plus farmacia, and panaderia, and maybe 6 minute walk to delicious lattes and another dozen restaurants plus 2 farmacias Walkable places are far more important to me than walmarts, Costcos and cookie cutter houses behind a gate

[@yourdesigndiva]

I came to Mexico to live free to have an authentic Mexican experience. A gated community is not for me. The noise, my early morning wake from the rooster that lives somewhere behind me, being in the midst of the local people, this is my life here. I wouldn't change it for anything.

[@iriche6626]

Absolutely hate stupid gated community . With their stupid rules and endless noise during the weekends. I don't know how long the author lived in Mexico to not to know that the guards are the last ones that you should trust your lives , schedule and location and any info in general 😅 good luck with the ilusión of safety 😒

[@user-jq9nr3qo6o]

I think you'd be better off in a gated community.

[@yourdesigndiva]

if that works for you, by all means, go for a gated community. @@user-jq9nr3qo6o

[@dogy1.2]

If you want an authentic Mexican experience than you should try living off of pesos .

[@nasirb3914]

Nope. Not necessary, especially if you live on the outskirts of a large city or a small town. This is TRUE freedom. @@user-jq9nr3qo6o

[@antonio7114]

I've been living in Mexico for over a year just fine without an HOA, but I'm also Mexican so I can adapt to the culture just fine. Are you even living in Mexico if you don't have vendors going through your streets selling tamales, pan dulce, etc, or the occasional party till 3-5 in the morning? 😂 I joke but HOA probably reminds people more of a USA style of living.

[@geogarcia4065]

Preach Bratha! This kid, Jordan is really starting to trip. lol

[@filasian1]

Agreed

[@russellbarnes7728]

I agree, the local vendors selling Tamales, etc, are great in our neighborhood. Often, you can tell time by their arrival. Not a problem at all. Assimilation is key, when in Mexico, do as Mexicans do!

[@rubyoro0]

I was just in Playa Encanto which is an HOA, yet we still had tamale vendors and what not trying to sell us stuff.

[@yourdesigndiva]

exactly...the way he is talking in this video, sounds very fearful. And I am not quite sure why he is in Mexico?

[@carloslaguna7036]

I love your videos but many people (me included) feel uncomfortable now with the word "expat". You are an immigrant my friend

[@ElenaFariascabo]

One of the most beautiful things about Mexico is the party culture, and no one calls the police on no one… usually when people are happy with their own lives, don’t mind about the parties, in the contrary they get invites to the neighbors party…

[@nasirb3914]

It's just part of living in a free society.

[@birdsinparadise3113]

I lived in a few different places, and the loud music to 3am is definitely neither normal nor appreciated by locals. I see constant complaints by long term residents about the people who come in from the cities to visit the coast being a$$hats and not welcome here and wanting police to crack down on even just the noise, let alone their garbage. But I read local social media and know folks and have passable Spanish.

[@yellowmoontonkawanative8920]

I say if you go to any country learn to live like that country and not try to change that country

[@mgtowmonger2729]

Mexicans have been building and living in hoa's for a long long time... they're called 'cotos' here... Surprise! Property developers can build rows and rows of identical houses cheaply and build a large strong wall all around with one entrance and create the coto / hoa and they sell the houses much cheaper than individual family homes can be built and sold for. 1 to 2 million peso homes are sold at places like these further away from the city center. They tend to be much larger and spacious and have 3 bedrooms, two stories and are obligated by Mexican federal law to have a fixed % of green and public space in them depending on how many individual family units they have. Lots of them in Zapopan, jalisco. The new construction creates many jobs, provides housing for many families (very few single people live in them but they could if they wanted to), and the Mexicans themselves are doing this. They are even built to more modern standards and actually have grounded electrical outlets! (I've never lived in a house with properly grounded electrical outlets, even when I lived in the usa!) No gringo is holding a gun to their head forcing them. People even set up mom and pop corner stores inside of these coto's so people can still walk to get milk, toilet paper, candy, sugar, salt, bananas, onions, etc... This has been going on for over 25 years, there are cotos that are even older than that.

[@luisfelipecamacho8412]

Nice informative video, just one point. When you were talking about not gated communities not having zone laws, thats actually incorrect, todays pretty much every city has zone laws in 100% of its territory. The zones you are refiring to have a "mixed use", that means local businesses can be stablished among houses with some restrictions, mainly related to size. And I get in some cases they can become ugly, but they also can become the heart of the neighborhood, and in some cases they can even become an atraction or a point of interest in a city. But the best part is that they are the reason most of mexicans dont need to drive a car to do the most basic things such as buy milk or eat some tacos.

[@innaromaniuk]

Nice point

[@hereformo5167]

I agree US zoning laws favor neighborhoods where only single family dwellings can be established such as the suburbs. But overall making us into a more car dependent society, that’s what I love when I travel to Mexico I can actually walk somewhere.

[@contrerase1]

This video is for the: We love Mexico except when Mexico happens crowd.

[@little5bee]

I lived in Germany waaaay back in the '80's and I never expected it to be like my neighborhood in the US. It wasn't my country and furthermore, I enjoyed living a different lifestyle and learning more about THEIR culture.

[@DrAJ_LatinAmerica]

HOA's here in Mexico still have all the same issues. Plus many many unforseen costs. Monthly cost not fixed. Even if you live in an HOA but one side of the community backs up to main roads, still have all the noise😢😢. And here in Mexico when some of the neighbors are police officers, military officials, or government officials (read as meaning anynof them are also "narcos"), then the HOA allows them to break all rules. 😢

[@juanjmolina]

its a lifestyle choice. HOA communities can suck or be awesome. Management,Location,Cost and overall Privacy.. remember your paying for another layer of government to set the rules.

[@daviddurango9562]

People who live outside of gated communities are far more honest than those who live within. FYI...

[@alfredenewman795]

Good points. I recently moved from a gated community that had the rules in place that I wanted. They had an extensive dog barking rules, but trying to get them enforced was not possible. This was in Leon. Don’t assume because there are rules, that they can be enforced. I lived in one of the Towers, not cheap, many gates, lots of security.. Some rules in Mexico, Mexicans expect to break.😊

[@lb9007]

Yes barking dogs is a huge problem, I almost turned crazy with the endless inconsiderates neighbor dog owners.

[@mgtowmonger2729]

barking dogs is the #1 reason why people in Mexico have a bad habit of poisoning dogs... So if you have a barker and the neighbors start to complain... do something about your dog or it may wind up getting a 'special treat'. Sucks but that's how it is in Mexico and it's been that way forever. Not gonna change.

[@gogojoe5860]

"They had an extensive dog barking rules, but trying to get them enforced was not possible". .. That was my experience in the Condo with an HOA as well.

[@princesscc8600]

Barking dogs it's absolutely crazy in Mexico, the gov should fine dogs'owners who allows that annoying habits of being stressed by theirs dogs, because the owners don't care

[@justiceforall007]

I can tell you that if i ever move to Mexico someday i will NOT live in a gated(exclusive) community, will not have an HOA, and will not live in a gentrified neighborhood with a bunch of wealthy expats! Why? I'm not rich! My dream life in Mexico consists of living in an authentic Mexican pueblo or village where chickens walk the streets, we speak Spanish, and where people are more important than things. ❤ I hope someday i will realize my dream because in the U.S. people are living to work and barely surviving- this is not freedom. I'd rather live a more simple life and savor every moment.

[@JosephHurtsellers]

Man did I like that reply. Point of Mexico is Mexico, not some cheap version of Florida or California or wherever. Mexicans are the greatest people I've ever met, and it's important to become a Mexican if you want to live in Mexico in my opinion.❤

[@jrgarciab]

Julie, the way you judge others, I doubt you'll ever be as happy as you fantasize about. Using silly words like "gentrified" and thinking that safety is not authentic won't bring you happiness. You don't need to be rich to live well in Mexico. And you don't need to speak poorly of those that have more than you. Be humble. Be "authentic". And aim high. Maybe you'll do big things and enjoy a better lifestyle in a few years. Godspeed.

[@r.c.salyer3652]

Julie you ARE already are wealthy. Knowledge is so much more valuable than money. 4 short lines, and you got to the crux of the matter. Once you are IN in your community, people look out for your property when you are away, you have a sense of community and you help each other out. Yea, I love that everything comes to my front door except the beer. You have call to order at least a case, then they will bring it. Start buying 1 oz. Silver coins to protect yourself as the US Dollar is tanking, some say it will get as low as 5 to 1! That way you can keep your dream alive.

[@rubyoro0]

@@jrgarciab. Gentrification is definitely a concern. Just went to Puerto Peñasco and the tacos are more expensive than the USA. I feel sorry for the locals.

[@ass4ssinang3l97]

I highly recommend El Refugio, it has a lot of HOAS to choose from and it’s very pretty and safe!

[@1232bluejays]

Is that in Queretaro?

[@ass4ssinang3l97]

@@1232bluejays Yes, it is

[@booboogaloo2152]

A lot of the gated communities have security at the entrance gates and I find this problematic especially because they interfere with my freedom to have gentlemen callers coming and going as I enjoy having. My privacy is therefor very difficult to maintain and privacy is part of one's security.

[@daltonbrewster7331]

I agree 100% the colonias are nice, but safety and quiet are important. Especially if you work remote. That being said, you can still grab lunch and dinners at cheap places in colonias

[@gogojoe5860]

I rented a Condo in Mexico. The problem was that around 60% of the Condos did not pay the monthly dues to the HOA. The only thing the HOA did was post their names.

[@TangerineTravels]

The HOA doesn’t have much power to collect dues in Mexico so people not paying can be an issue in some communities

[@luisfelipecamacho8412]

Then probably wasn't a legally constituted condominium. This figure its relatively new in Mexico so many old complex do not have this yet, (it's not mandatory). In a legal constituted condominium, owners not paying these fees can be legally sued and even loose the property.

[@r.c.salyer3652]

I see this all over Mexico. Even where we live now, in a nice uṕscale neighborhood of Town homes, where our niece lives. Hey and we are about to be going DOWN into 320 year Depressionary event. You want to move into a property with HOA. I think NOT.

[@Mark-rw3kw]

The problem with HOA's is not their restrictive rules IMO (they protect everyone's property value). Maybe you don't get to pick your favorite color to paint your home, but that's better than having your next door neighbor paint it orange or lime green. The problem with HOA's is that the Board of Directors will have the HOA fix problems around their homes (with your money), and ignore problems of other homeowners without connections to the Board.

[@samuelmartinez2729]

I would never let anyone decide what color to paint my house.

[@Mark-rw3kw]

@@samuelmartinez2729 What you mean is that you would never purchase a home where there are legal covenants that allow the HOA to veto your paint color choice, or where there is a historical conservation district that has the same power. Once you buy a home with restrictive covenants, you have to abide by them. During the closing, if there are such restrictive covenants on the property, you will have to sign a document acknowledging them in order to take possession of the home. In practice, the HOA usually just has veto power, and you have a range of choices, unless you live in a townhome or condo where the HOA is the one doing the painting.

[@birdsinparadise3113]

I like colourful houses more than blandness tho My city recently hired some muralists and now a bunch of less used buildings have beautiful paintings. Along the way a few home owners had their outside walls done. One artist painted a big St Bernard outside of where the St Bernard lives.

[@Mark-rw3kw]

@@birdsinparadise3113 If many homes in the neighborhood are "colorful" that is fine. If not, then having one house that looks significantly different will likely lower the resale value of the other nearby homes, which is why those rules exist. In some historic districts, especially in the northeast around Boston, homeowners are required to use historically correct paint colors in many cases, plus all of their exterior features remain historically correct. All of these rules are in the legal documents (such as covenants) available to be viewed before they purchase the home, so people should read those before deciding to purchase.

[@birdsinparadise3113]

@@Mark-rw3kw I doubt if any of these gated communities are historical landmarks.

[@nanekkii]

Even in the most exclusive areas, you are still a possible target. My cousin who has a stunning, beautiful home in a gated community was still robbed. They had cameras in their home and no one did anything. Let’s remember that you don’t know if you can trust the cops either. This is a fact. And this is coming from a Mexican American who IS thinking of retiring in Mexico and visits various cities every year.

[@birdsinparadise3113]

A friend of mine had his place robbed in Ecuador 3 times. My other friend with 3 large dogs, one of which hates everyone, has never once been robbed. The difference is she got rid of the guardian and doesn't invite random female locals strangers over to see what she owns.

[@tdgdbs1]

We have two security guards that cost us $24000/month divide among 48 households so $500 pesos each. Not a HOA by definition, just an account at BBVA so we can wire in pesos each month and distribute to the two guards.

[@qualqui]

🤣🤣Yes, from "Tamales Oaxaqueños, compre sus ricos tamales Oaxaqueños" ,the metal buyer listing all the different appliances,scrap metal they'll buy from you, even my Tamale vendor shouting:"Taaamaaales!" over and over, the knife/scissors sharpener with his "discreet" whistle,another dude who sells atype of tostada pastry with his bell-type ringing, there are various bakers who play a comercial jingo taken from a 40s/50smovie with Mexican comedian Tin Tan and the new baker who shouts(taped)over and over: "HAY PANNNNNNN" and ditto with the parties,here in the hood, one would say 12,maybe 1 in the morning is the most late, not here, they'll stay up until 4 a.m.😂😉👍

[@chicharon101]

Living in one. Unfortunately one neighbour is a cartel member and even the policeman that's lives in front is afraid to speak with him when he does loud parties of armed men until 4 AM, which is totally forbidden by the HOA rules. Well, good luck for enforcing the rules when you live next to violent neighbours. My solution is to move on unharmed and most important: do not own a house in Mexico.

[@r.c.salyer3652]

Your advice lends some credence. Since 2019, the Federal Govt. enacted a new Tax, when you sell your property. They have muscled into being 50% owners with you. And what have they brought to the table or served you with. NOTHING! Socialists rammed this through. 50% Tax on the difference from what you paid for the property and what it is evaluated for when you sell or your demise. So, unless you have a very close family member who loves Mexico too that is much younger than you, who you can put on the Deed as a Co owner. Then nothing changes, no tax paid and they can live there, rent it, etc. DONT buy property in Mexico. Just rent until they change that stupid Socialist Law!

[@cluggyahoo]

Yup, it's definitely wiser to rent a home in Mexico

[@robertedwards4904]

hi Jordan, I spend the winters in Chan Chemuyil close to Tulum and I would like to bring my small Drone with me this year. Is this a bad idea? Its a DJI mini 3

[@dawn2788]

Nice dog sleeping in the background, on the floor.

[@innaromaniuk]

Thanks! Very informative ❤

[@lb9007]

The problem with HOAs in Mexico is the amount of Mexican owners that don't pay. This is a huge problem.

[@birdsinparadise3113]

That's a comment I made. When the owners don't pay, and you are paying that fee to them directly, it's your services that get cancelled. Better to make sure you oay all fees and utilities yourself directly. It doesn't even matter if those are in landlord's name if you are paying and keep receipts

[@anna_m59]

I dear, I live in HOA and it’s bad as could be Ps. You can’t paint a house at all. They paint all in the same color. You can’t put outside anything no freedom.

[@janajoujan7658]

Thankyou. This information is very helpful.

[@guruofendtimes819]

And HOA can also foreclose on your property for as little as a $5 violation

[@melissalow9557]

Just moved in a month ago to a Privada by Merida. Feel much safer than some of the neighborhoods in the city (despite it being a very safe city). My husband even forgot to lock our doors a few times and it was fine.

[@cluggyahoo]

Funny, I also just moved in Merida a month ago. I wasn't in a privada until now but I'll move in one next week though near La Isla.

[@cluggyahoo]

@@davidostrowski679 to avoid the noise from the dogs barking

[@DerRammenStein]

HAHAHAHA, Live in Kanasín or Umán, it's the authentic experience of tranquillity in Yucatan and that's very near from Mérida (more than a Privada who was built on unregulated land)...

[@melissalow9557]

@@DerRammenStein we were in Kanasin. We frequently went to Villas de Oriente and other areas throughout Kanasin. No issues.

[@melissalow9557]

@@cluggyahoo the North is where we are too now, but in Conkal.

[@7777osunajoe]

Yes , I agree , and being from the US and live there part time or for a vacation home , and also i pay a security company to watch over my property there '

[@AllentheBeloved]

this is a good useful video, you're on the right track ... I may retire in Mexico ultimately, not sure, queretaro sounds like a good place

[@MexicoMattandAli]

$650USD / month HOA here in Zihua. Not a gated community, just a condo complex.

[@kevinthec]

Hey, Jordan. If I planned to rent in Mexico, should I look for a rental in a gated community? One with an HOA?

[@r.c.salyer3652]

If it is your first time living in Mexico and your not Latino, I would advise renting in a Gringo Gulch Community. Then graduate from there in a year or two into the REAL WORLD of MEXICO. I was just up in San Antonio, TX last week on a long postponed trip taking care of a lot of business. It was nice as S.A. life style is like half way to Mexico BUT, the Welcoming Committe, the local Traffic Cop got to me and gave me a City Tax, Parking Ticket. Less that 30 ft. to the corner. What utter BS! It works for them, but I prefer Mexico. A few of my buddies will not even return to the USA, better living here.

[@mmmmmm8606]

You are so funny Jordan. You know that many Latin Americans including myself hate the the US because of how quiet it is. Especially in the most important holidays like Thanksgivings and of course Christmas. It feels dead soulless. That’s why we go back to our own countries around these holidays to enjoy the party and have fun. To immerse ourselves in all the sounds that reflect our culture.

[@mwiebe2663]

I completely agree! This is one of the many reasons I, technically not Latin American, felt like I was coming home the first time I came to Mexico when I was 15 years old. I continue to feel this way in Mexico and anywhere else in Latin America. (I say “technically” not Latin American because whenever I meet people from Latin America, they presume I’m Latin American.)

[@scotttiffee9113]

Much of the US isn't QUIET... anymore. (Now that it's been OVERRUN, with city people and/ or foreigners... that's a major reason WHY many are LEAVING the cities, and even moving abroad to escape, the rapid DECLINE... and/ or increased cost, of living. But it's happening almost EVERYWHERE...) The 'elites' are using others to displace, 'subvert' AND 'DESTABILIZE' our communities, WORLDWIDE.

[@davidlucasmachado2831]

When you go back...STAY THERE

[@chefevilee9377]

Congratulations on your engagement ! Not me, I love Juez put me behind A gate any day of the week.

[@joniskibo5910]

NOPE, NEVER live in an HOA Again😡To Many Boss's Change RULEs

[@guruofendtimes819]

You were telling the truth this guy is nothing but a salesman

[@teiaotterwolf]

Jordan .. please. What VPN do you use. And is it like an antivirus?

[@jcmoreno14]

I see more and more how Americans are coming to live in Mexico as their dollars are worth more here and they expect US-style homes, communities, restaurants, entertainment, etc. You came to live in Mexico so you must now adapt. Not the other way around.

[@keepitreal3301]

Mexico must adapt to Americans. Otherwise, the U.S. may bring democracy to your country. 😒

[@soothingsounds4464]

Well I understand and I (and the majority of US-born Americans) feel the exact same way about Mexicans /Latinos who come to the US to live….the same should also go for Mexicans and other Latinos coming to live in the US, but here in the US they still continue to act as if they’re in their native country.- loose dogs everywhere, loud music 24/7, partying all hours of the night, not knowing how to drive, not learning English, and basically continuing to live as they would in their home country. So the Mexicans/Latinos here in the US they need to adapt too but they refuse to do so , so it goes both ways .

[@soothingsounds4464]

But the difference is is that Americans bring money to Mexico whereas when people come to the US they don’t.

[@taylornikii]

​@soothingsounds4464 That's because Mexicans bring skills and the desire to work so that Americans can make more money.

[@taylornikii]

​​@@soothingsounds4464Don't down play Mexicans so quickly when you can even get an American do basic jobs.

[@dreamrelaxation7239]

Hello. I'm from Nicaragua and what you describe is virtually identical to Nicaragua, except the cartels which we don't have. Not yet, at least. In Nicaragua vendors, specially fruit vendor, walk around with a bell, or simply shout out what they are selling. Also, small pickup trucks with products for sale might drive around the neighborhood with a bullhorn, even playing music at times, as loud as you can possibly imagine, usually around noon. You would not want to be an overnight worker that sleeps during the day in Nicaragua. One good thing about Nicaraguan vendor vs. American door salesmen is that Nicaraguan vendors do take "no" for an answer, unlike American salesmen that keep talking even after you said "no" 20 times. Also, in Nicaragua, religious people sometimes worship outdoors with loudspeakers, which can annoy if you live close. Like Jordan said, if you call the police they will laugh at you. Fireworks are a problem during new year's eve (December 31), as everybody likes to pop firecrackers. There are quiet neighborhoods in Nicaragua, usually upper class neighborhoods. There aren't many gated neighborhoods, but wealthier neighborhoods are simply naturally quieter for some reason, even without HOA. Poor neighborhoods on the other hand, are noisy like it's a festival everyday. Nicaragua is a very noisy country. Be warned if you are tempted to travel there.

[@guruofendtimes819]

Why don't you have cartel since you have a long border with El salvador? Did your country crack down and eliminate them like El Salvador is trying to do?

[@dreamrelaxation7239]

@@guruofendtimes819 Nicaragua does not have any borders with El Salvador. If you look at the map, Nicaragua only has borders with Honduras and Costa Rica, and the Atlantic at the east and Pacific ocean at the west.

[@matthewraden5210]

The laws don’t allow the police to come into private developments without the express permission of the manager. This means that if you are the victim of a crime, you may have no recourse. Also, criminals may find these developments attractive for that same reason. Think hard.

[@AllentheBeloved]

HOA's here in Downtown San Diego are $700-1800 for your average 2 bedroom condo, $200 a month? that's a gym membership down here

[@cluggyahoo]

That's nuts 😳

[@eyesea123]

Great job!

[@Stghhhh]

looking a lot happier & healthy congrats on that 👏

[@CallowG]

For me street noise doesn't bother me much, but what does bother me is kids jumping up and down on my ceiling all day and all night. It's not really the noise it's more the impacts, I can feel it in my bones and it drives me nuts. I had to move out of my apartment because of the kids upstairs, not because there was a construction site right outside my window.

[@guruofendtimes819]

Always live on the top four of an apartment building

[@raphaelszok8561]

Some HOA's say you can use only one brand to paint outside your home.

[@r.c.salyer3652]

Well if you ARE going to have rules, might as well specify a paint that wont flake off or utterly fade in a year.

[@gaming-zombie1392]

In Long island NY and some places in Miami FL have place with a tire place or mechanic next to them...

[@mikebryan7077]

I wish i was lucky like you Tangerine Travels.

[@russellbarnes7728]

How about you just assimilate, and live within the culture, and quit being so paranoid? I'm from the US, been here almost three years, live in a very nice un-gated neighborhood, no HOA, no fees, in a beautiful home. Haven't been victimized by ANY crime, don't feel unsafe or threatened in any way. I think a lot of people, such as myself, wanted to come to Mexico to enjoy the life it offers, not to hide from it. Don't try to make it like the United States...

[@sergiotirado3201]

It is ok foreigners coming to live in Mexico before you can see only USA and Canadians but now lot of Europeans are coming too and this is making the cost of living more expensive for locals even though the economy is growing in Mexico

[@strongtowerman9661]

What part of Mexico they're coming in?

[@r.c.salyer3652]

The main reason it is getting more expensive is it has one of the best Economies in the whole World in this Depression. Very astute, educated people made tons of wise choices building Mexicos Infracstructure out over the last 40 years. Inviviting European, Asian countries to set up partnership Factories in Mexico. Now, if Mexico can keep the Socialists at Bay, and not go down the same path of Venezuela, this next 50 years will be Mexicos greatest years for their Economy. Rising Economy equals rising prices. Mexico will be going through all the growing pains that the USA in developing their Industrial base in the last Century. Buy Mexican Stocks paying 10 plus % dividends, Cestes Accounts at Banks paying about the same or Silver to stay ahead of the inflation. If you are living here, you HAVE to start getting some income from Mexico, where you investments rise in value with every rise in the Peso.

[@SafirSecerovic]

This is the best ever advice you could have given! One needs to do their research as well... Not every gated community is the same... Some have stricter rules and better organization and enforcement than others. Some have water and / or drainage issues... Some do not allow any excessive noise at night and after certain hours.... Some do not allow home repairs and noisy work on weekends... Another super important thing is to try to find, usually newer construction privadas that sport houses that have physically detached walls from one another... It helps immensely with the noise and privacy. Golden rule, in my opinion is to search for a place that is not the cheapest, but rather mid range to higher... Since, if a rent is really cheap, than anyone can afford it, including noise making, party people, who turn their living space into a bar, concert venue and your life into a living nightmare, with a convenient excuse that it's the culture... Overall... gated communities with proper real estate company are key to having safe and healthy living space. Very often, even the increased rental price or purchase price is not a guarantee that things will be handled better... It takes a lot of due diligence and luck to find a cozy place within tolerant and respectful neighborhood.

[@jeffokriya3389]

I suppose you achieve the good vocal sound with a sound processor? with a bit of reverb? congrats

[@georgina50002]

LOL! I had no idea there were HOAs here! I rent an apartment and I grew up in a house without an HOA.

[@SwimminWitDaFishies]

How do you make sure that you don't get ripped off when you belong to an HOA? So many horror stories exist, where the HOA does not have good financial recordkeeping or cash solvency standing. And it's not just the US where problems exist. Wherever there is money that needs to be paid, you have to trust that those in charge are managing things correctly. How often do "special assessments" happen and why?

[@adriennegross7607]

Awwww Clover looks content

[@sekhmetra1785]

¿Pagas impuestos?

[@MovingToMexiCo]

Great info. I recommend asking about the reputation of the HOA. Some can be good and some can be horrible. It all depends on the neighbors and administration.

[@Dave-kh6tx]

The noise has been fine. I don't mind the vendors making noise. Reminds me small businesses can thrive here.

[@hippo-potamus]

I concur.

[@jps3b]

I think the same rules apply here in the US. I’m a big fan of HOA’s. Keep junkie cars from parking on the street and never move.

[@John-rf4sv]

Another great video keep it up Jordan we’re from uk and have been lucky enough to travel to Mexico several times usually once a year sometimes twice and love the place the people of Mexico 🇲🇽 have always made us welcome and so many of our friends have started going because we’ve been able to help we also tell them to view your videos as in our opinion you and May give the best practical advice best of luck for the future ❤ from us in the uk 🇬🇧

[@r.canales9461]

Can you recommend a local Queretaro rental agent?

[@josephpartin557]

Were is good small city in Mayan riviera to buy not too far from beaches.

[@liswan26]

On a random note, where is Laska? So now they have 3 dogs? Or is Laska gone? The engagement video also showed this dog in the background and the small one but not Laska. Anyways I don't see the point of moving to Mexico if you're going to be living in gated communities.

[@TangerineTravels]

If you watch the engagement video until the end you'll see Laska

[@CassieDavis613]

Do the renters pay the HOA fee?

[@TangerineTravels]

More often than not, it's included in the rent. Maybe 25% of the time it's not and the renter is responsible for paying it in addition to the rent.

[@RJ-pe6uj]

Don't forget the Maid, they are two face.

[@user-wt7sn5ky4m]

or more likely posting vacation pictures on social media while you are away 😁

[@Uncommon-pixels]

I believe you have never lived in a HOA complex in Mexico- in most of them my experience is that 50-60% of the owners do not pay the monthly charges and it takes 3-4 years to evict them So the honest owners end up having to pay double or more to continue having the services

[@TangerineTravels]

I’ve lived in 3. 2 in Querétaro and 1 in Quintana Roo

[@kmazanec]

This has been my experience during my 20 years in Mexico City and living in many different apartments. No way to force folks to pay the HOA fee, and a few residents end up paying for everything. No way to "evict" homeowners.

[@r.c.salyer3652]

Yea, a pretty ridiculous U'Tube Video giving out bad advice. But after growing up in California and learning about Real Estate there. A FOOL is born every second to buy and every 5 seconds for the banker to give you that loan. So track how many people thought this was good advice. I was shocked to hear that some places have been able to evict some dead beats in 3 to 4 years. More the norm is never.

[@kmazanec]

@@r.c.salyer3652 Just a couple weeks ago a renter in our building was finally evicted after not paying rent (and obviously the HOA fees) for over a year. The legal process took about a year, with both the owner and renter hiring attorneys. But these were renters, not owners. And it was alot more than the HOA fee that they weren't paying. You can't "evict" an owner. I've seen a lot of people (both renters and owners) who haven't paid HOA fees over the years, and no one was ever evicted for that. Personally, I feel better living in a place without HOA fees or at least low ones, so it's not such a burden on you if you're the type who is responsible and pays them. But I also live on an average Mexican salary and can't afford expensive places. That makes a big difference too.

[@rubyoro0]

@@r.c.salyer3652. So your life lesson is to not buy real estate? Lmao.

[@chandie5298]

You sold me on great ideas.

[@hoppeanofasgard1365]

The big question I have though is why are home invasions more common in Mexico, and are they so much more common that this truly is a necessity to either live in a gated community or wall off your house and bar the windows?

[@user-wt7sn5ky4m]

There is a saying in Mexico “no pasa nada” I recently found out from a local that meant in many cases you look for justice to some wrong doing and don’t find it. That may be why protection from other sources are prevalent. I will say people are more respectful maybe because they know there may not be someone to intervene quickly. Don’t get me wrong - a lot of time nothing happens in other countries when you call on superior authorities 🤷‍♂️

[@hoppeanofasgard1365]

@@user-wt7sn5ky4m Well even in the US it's rare the cops show up in time catch the person in the act of breaking in, many times when people break in to houses it's when no one is home and the only time that maybe a cop might arrive in time is if a neighbor just so happens to see the break in in progress, or suspects something fishy with a vehicle or something being parked somewhere they didn't recognize, but 8 to 9 times out of 10 police are always just reacting well after the fact and trying to find some one who's long since fled the scene. So that's why I'm confused about all this extra security unless break ins just happen so much more, but if they do the question is still why? is there really such a disrespect for people homes in Mexico that this common? I thought over all Mexico had a more respectful culture not less.

[@jamesavakian4977]

My wifes family now has a next door neighbor with a little shop that produces noise and chemical smells all day. The trucks, speeding cars , police and noisy vendors are frequent If you are drinking a beer in front of the house , the police will stop and harrass you. The gated community allows more freedom and peace in Mexico.

[@user-wt7sn5ky4m]

thank you - overall good advice as usual. The downside of gated communities in my opinion is you loose walkability, these are typically large suburb type areas that are not walkable (reminds me of US suburbs with a sea of houses - cringe). You can find safe neighborhoods with dead-end streets with few houses and great neighbors (vecinos vigilando, group chats, street cameras, etc..) that in my opinion is safer and more enjoyable than a gated community. Also, many times, the amenities are crowded or in some cases not maintained.

[@birdsinparadise3113]

No sidewalks from what I can see, all designed for cars so you walk in the road

[@redgrass5]

Miss yalls videos been a while since you posted one hope to see one soon, you two are awesome

[@chemicalbromance1911]

Se compran refrigeradores, lavadoras, microondas o algo de fierro viejo que vendaaaa

[@jonathanjacques7250]

I hate noise, I'd lose my mind.

[@dondubnow57]

I used to enjoy watching you travel. The name "Tangerine Travel" implies that you travel. I have not seen much of that lately. I have lost interest in watching your channel, because of this. The information you give is of value, but not as entertaining to watch. I just wanted you to know.

[@evasimon5989]

Is that Laska behind you taking a nap?🐶

[@TangerineTravels]

That’s Clover. He’s 6 months old

[@evasimon5989]

@@TangerineTravels🥰

[@michaelanderson9914]

The cost of more freedom

[@TristanGonzales10]

wow nice ❤

[@more1091]

Hoa isn’t included in your rent?

[@TangerineTravels]

The fee is included in the rent more often than not. But the way I see it, whether or not it's "included" you're still paying it. Because the landlord will take that into consideration when pricing the house.

[@r.c.salyer3652]

ALL fee, costs are always included in your rent. Otherwise your Rentor would be loosing money. That is NOT why people rent out property , to loose money!

[@charlesgarcia1703]

And that's on a period ❤

[@gemini_man66]

HOAs...what a scam.

[@DoubleAFleaMarket]

You pay HOA on rented property?

[@TangerineTravels]

Sometimes it's included in the rent, sometimes it's not. But either way, you're paying for it in a way because the landlord is taking that into account when pricing the rental.

[@jdbrews284]

$100/ month is not cheap

[@TangerineTravels]

It's typically that or less in Mexico unless you're in a really fancy neighborhood. The most common type of neighborhoods are usually in the $25-40 range

[@Mark-rw3kw]

Speaking of load noises, you are disturbing the dog's sleep.

[@janicegreen534]

Best comment 😂

[@mypphh97]

So you don’t like serenatas and mariachis? 😅 Come on, that’s not Mexico. Safety I agree but they still happen and you just said it “don’t tell the guards you are going on vacation”

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

Laska flaked out in back of you, ha, ha, ha ... 🤣🤣

[@Larrymopac]

I live in mexico and i have never heard of HOA lol.

[@daviddurango9562]

I saw a lot of "gated communities" during the years I lived in south Florida. Gated communities are fine, just so long as you keep the gates LOCKED!

[@r.c.salyer3652]

Oh what a disaster it is becoming in Florida right now. HOA fees mushrooming higher with 200 to 300% higher Property Insurance against Floods, windstorms, etc. And since the State mandated all HOAs mark to market each yearly portion of future repairs and replacements, some people are now having to pay $2500.00- month for a 2 bedroom condo for HOAs! You can live real well on that in Mexico. I expect a flood of Floridians coming, but hope not.

[@sermanojedagil2729]

Never ever

[@FreedomPlaya]

Great video Jordan! Safety is definitely the biggest reason to live in a gated community + if you’re an owner, you just about eliminate the risk of a home invasion if you’re not at your house/property for a few months out of the year. And yes, added benefits are less street noises both from traffic and vendors And usually if you are in a gated community or condo building you’re also likely to get some amenities such as a pool, possibly a gym, a kids’ play area etc

[@stuberry1875]

I have been living in Mexico for over 2 and a half years. The last thing I would do is join a HOA. There is absolutely no benefit to it. My personal feeling is that gated communities come with their own set of issues. Safety has more to do with the State you live in, not whether the accommodation is gated or not. I found this video a bit ridiculous. What is the problem with hearing street vendors? The same with parties. These are the reasons I love Mexico. Street vendors, fireworks, music in the street.. This is what makes Mexico so beautiful. My advice to anyone planning to move to Mexico would be to embrace the culture in all its respects and get to know Mexicans, who are incredibly friendly and welcoming. If you want to stay away from Mexican culture or complain about noise, I would think twice before coming to Mexico.

[@lindaparker1043]

there are always different types of people even in mexico who prefers quieter neighborhoods… just because you are one type doesn’t mean people who prefer serenity do not exist.. its always best to have options ❤

[@mwiebe2663]

@@lindaparker1043​​⁠​⁠ True. But Jordan is stating you should ONLY live in a place with an HOA if living in Mexico. If he’d presented it as “benefits of living in a community with HOA”, sure. But no. He states at the beginning, “I’m going to teach you why you want to live in a place with an HOA if you’re going to live in Mexico.” Hardly acknowledging different strokes for different folks. I’m personally extremely happy in my non-HOA home in a mixed income, very Mexican neighbourhood in a small Pueblo Mágico, dogs barking, burros braying, cohetes and all.

[@lindaparker1043]

@@mwiebe2663 you have a point. jordan is probably assuming most americans prefer what he prefers.. and the title is pretty bold 😝 its easy to forget there are all kinds of people who prefers something different than you. i always assume people like the perfumes i like which is also quite problematic at times.

[@danielnelson5038]

Hi Jordan! Is there any way to pay you for a consultancy call about Queretaro? I'm considering moving there and would love advice from a professional traveler.

[@TangerineTravels]

Yes, I actually just started this service. you can book it here: calendly.com/tangerinetravels/mexico-consultation-with-jordan

[@crowthebest]

I was about to give you a dislike because I hate HOAs but I have to agree with you about the noise in México, I used to live in a gated community then moved to a not so busy street in Mexico City and even though it's not that busy the noise is very annoying especially those dudes that crank up the volume of the speakers buying "fierro viejo" and go around the block several times a day, but like you say police won't do anything even when there's noise pollution laws.

[@r.c.salyer3652]

Maybe it works in a few isolated cases. But, generally speaking this is UTTERLY STUPID ADVICE for home owners in Mexico! Let me get right to the crux of the problem, its money. And, what I am about to divulge is NOT a value judgement, nor is it a criticism, just a FACT OF LIFE in Mexico. This country runs on EMOTIONS, NOT fact, or reason or logic like some other countries. You have to get used to this to survive. Mexicans are very competitive. Someone has something, they say, I am that good and should have that too, and directed by EMOTION will do what ever it takes to acquire a property. They have no idea how they will be paying their HOA in the future and some times even their Mortgage payments, just that they own that beautiful property. I first saw this in the BajaMar Country Club wonderful development on its own Penisula north of Ensenada, Baja Norte with 27 holes of Golf, when we lived there over 20 years ago. Things dont get done, fixed, repaired because a good portion of the owners were absentee owners and NOT paying their HOA fees. So why are you paying your HOA for all these Dead Beats and then not getting the services for what you ARE paying for. Want to buy that beautiful Ocean View property, well besides you having to pay for the property you will not get the deed until you pay off all the back HOAs not paid, which can amount to years of unpaid HOA and add up to more that what you are paying for the property! We saw this in BajaMar Country Club. Fast forward to Mazatlan. We wanted to buy into an older 12 unit condo that were really big for the price, all with spectacular Ocean Views. 3 stories and of these 12 owners they could NOT even collect enough HOAs to pay to fix the elevators!!! The elevators had been inoperaple for 2 year! Total waste of our time to pursue. Now think that you bought a 25th story condo there on the beach, and the same thing happens. You might be walking up-down 25 flights of stairs every time you go to the market, got to the pool, or leave your condo! There is a development that faired well, in this environment. The Playa Bonita, but the majority of the owners were American, Canadian or very wealthy Mexicans from CDMX, that all grew up in a culture, where they do the math, and dont buy unless they can afford to pay for it all including HOAs. Ridiculous advice, as far as I am concerned, you feel lucky Bubba!

[@Gingerrrrsnapps]

Never live in America with an HOA lol

[@David53D]

My HOA makes everyone wear their underwear on the outside of their cloths.

[@corndog9482]

it's a necessary evil, especially for those who have chronic insomnia and expensive stuff.

[@corndog9482]

@@rainbowsquash673 can't sleep with them on. Too uncomfortable, inserting them deep enough for them to stay in all night. Either I can't sleep due to discomfort, or wake up from noise because one, or both fall out ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ I would pay for HOA.

[@corndog9482]

@@rainbowsquash673 "If you have the priviledge of owning a mud brick hacienda style house one day you'll experience true sleep, walls are massive and block all emf signals including sound the room remains fresh and also blocks sound even when loud music outside, if you've ever been in a cave then you know how peaceful it can be to have no radio signals jamming your brain at all times" This is what I need. EMF radiation is a big thing I am trying to get away from. Thanks for the information!

[@corndog9482]

Also, do those hacienda style homes cost more than normal ones?