New Developments
Los Cabos' expansion continues
By Rick Stedman
Over the past three decades, the Los Cabos region has evolved from a sleepy fishing village to a world-renowned tourist destination. Perfect weather, spectacular scenery, outstanding recreational facilities and easy access have made Los Cabos a premier resort destination with one of the fastest growing real estate markets in the world.
Like any metro area coping with increased population, business and tourism, Los Cabos has had to deal with its share of traffic challenges. In order to keep up with expansion and to accommodate future growth, the Los Cabos Tourism Board in 2007 commissioned a circulation study of traffic in greater Los Cabos to improve traffic flow during peak periods. The study will include traffic counts of the major tourist areas of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. Eventually, the data will be used to formulate modifications to existing traffic patterns, as well as develop long-range solutions to Los Cabos' growing road congestion.
Another improvement in the works is the San José del Cabo Airport expansion project, which is currently under way. In a move aimed at accommodating the region's tourist explosion, airport and tourism officials announced the airport would receive a number of upgrades in the next three years. Enhancements will include additional parallel landing strips to accommodate more flights, reconfigured highway access, a fourth terminal building that will adjoin a remodeled Terminal 3, and a new structure offering expanded car rental facilities, shops and business services. The expansion began in late summer 2007 and is slated for completion by early 2010.
Mexican President Felipe Calderón announced last August that Cabo San Lucas is one of several cities around the country designated for a cruise ship dock. Not only will this alleviate the tedious shuttling of passengers on small tenders to and from shore, but it will create more jobs. This is part of the president's five-year plan for economic improvements.
You'll also find a complete list of real estate resources in the Business Directory.
Real Estate Developments
Puerto Los Cabos
The expansive, 1,900-acre master-planned resort Puerto Los Cabos, just east of San José del Cabo, was developed along three miles of pristine white-sand beach along the Sea of Cortés. More than luxurious residences, five-star hotels and unmatched amenities, what sets Puerto Los Cabos apart from other seaside enclaves is the magnificent new marina — a world-class port-of-call that is only the second in all Los Cabos. After years of design and construction, the 535-slip marina opened last summer. In 2008, its full operation unfolds as more boats utilize the facility for activities like sportfishing, whale watching or simply cruising the sparkling sea. In addition, the resort's two golf courses feature signature designs by Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman. The initial Nicklaus nine holes opened in fall 2007, with the first Norman nine to debut in spring 2008.
The dozens of individual homes now occupied or being built in Puerto Los Cabos reflect the community's distinctive cultural identity as well as its luxurious ambience. Hacienda-style architecture updated with contemporary flair and modern comforts is emblematic of the traditional Mexican blend of gracious formalities and warmhearted welcome. Exclusive private residence clubs are also available, and elegant condominium homes are being planned. To arrange a personal tour of Puerto Los Cabos, call (624) 146-9656/59, toll-free 1-800-403-6597, or visit www.puertoloscabos.com.
Misión La Serena
Misión La Serena is an exclusive oceanfront deeded interest fractional ownership resort of 75 two- and three-bedroom residences on nearly 10 acres of pristine beachfront within the master-planned development of Puerto Los Cabos.
Scheduled for completion in late 2008 or early 2009, Misión La Serena will define the high-end private residence resort experience in Los Cabos, exemplifying the ultimate vacation lifestyle with an internationally renowned destination spa, championship golf and optional country club and private yacht club memberships.
Lighthouse Point Estates
Lighthouse Point Estates, a new real estate development on the Sea of Cortés, has some of the most affordable beachfront property in all of Mexico's Baja East Cape region. A residential oceanfront resort community located a 45 minutes' drive north of Los Cabos International Airport, Lighthouse Point Estates enjoys miles of white-sand beaches, half-acre oceanfront and sea view lots, and a secluded country environment.
If you dream about spending those long winter months on a tropical beach, then consider Lighthouse Point Estates. Every estate lot at Lighthouse Point has a picturesque view of the Sea of Cortés and is located on one of the safest swimming beaches in all of Baja. Select from a waterfront estate or sea view estate with scenic mountain vistas aided by landscaped avenues and underground utilities. Common areas have been set aside for storage or boats, RVs and trailers, and small planes can land at an airstrip just two miles away. For more information, visit www.lighthousepointmexico.com.
El Zalate
El Zalate, a Santa Fe-style condominium development in San José del Cabo, is selling out of its beachfront villas as a result of local real estate gurus recognizing it as the "Best Beachfront Value in San José." In addition to offering views of Punta Gorda and Palmilla Point, these condominiums include amenities like a private beach, fitness center, three swimming pools, a large Jacuzzi and on-site services such as facial spa, bistro, pharmacy, vacation rentals, concierge services and more.
The suites are designed with high-end finishes and appliances, and have features such as water filtration throughout the plumbing system, wine coolers for those who love to entertain, pocket doors for ease of outdoor living — all of this only a splash away from the ocean waves. The two-bedroom units offer three floor plans to choose from, ranging from 1,400 square feet to more than 2,100 square feet of living space. Garages are also available for purchase. Prices range from US$540,000 to $900,000, and financing is available with a one-time loan origination fee. For more information, visit www.DreamHomesOfCabo.com or call 1-800-403-6597.
Villas de Oro
Villas de Oro, a luxury community within the master-planned community of Palmilla, is now in Phase III of development. It offers a total of 22 units located in nine two-story buildings overlooking the first and ninth holes of Palmilla's Ocean Nine. Homes are within walking distance of the golf clubhouse, miles of pristine beach, the five-star One&Only Palmilla resort and the new shopping village, Las Tiendas de Palmilla. At Las Tiendas, you'll find high-end shops, cafés and restaurants. Generous floor plans in all units offer two-bedroom, 2.5-bath and three-bedroom, 3.5-bath designs ranging from approximately 2,000 to 3,000 square feet with spectacular ocean and fairway views. Preconstruction prices run from US$725,000 to $975,000.
Thanks to the recent acquisition of 25 additional acres, owner/developer Gerry Burchard's master plan now calls for a variety of residential products including town houses, villas, single-family homes, custom lots and the Palmilla Tennis Club that includes swimming, tennis, a gym and restaurant. At build-out this 32.5-acre complex will encompass approximately 200 residential units and will be enhanced by a guard-gated entrance, palm tree-lined streets, sidewalks, fountains and waterfalls, creating a comfortable neighborhood environment.
Villas Del Mar
Villas Del Mar is best known for its unmatched level of service for residents and the developer's attention to detail. Sweeping ocean views, never-ending amenities and relaxed opulence characterize the Villas Del Mar experience.
Situated behind a guard-gated entry adjacent to the One&Only Palmilla, Villas Del Mar offers various ownership options ranging from oceanfront villas to mountainside casitas. The addition of the new Club Ninety Six, a private residents' beach club, confirms the development as some of the most coveted real estate in the world.
Established in 1996, Villas Del Mar offers stunning elegance featuring three-, four- and five-bedroom homes with prices ranging from US$2.35 million to $6.25 million.
Oasis Palmilla
Oasis Palmilla is the latest masterpiece by Del Mar Development, creators of the aforementioned Villas Del Mar. Also located within the exclusive 900-acre Palmilla master-planned community, this spectacular site rises above the Sea of Cortés and the world-famous One&Only Palmilla resort hotel. The site is configured around the 27-hole Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, natural desert arroyos, scenic mountains and rock outcrops. An extensive trail system connects community residents to parks, village retail and the exclusive Club Ninety Six beach club.
Oasis Palmilla is a community comprising informal and natural-like site and landscape characteristics. The theme for the community is "Mexican Coastal Ranch." The primary features forming this character include curvilinear streets, enhanced native desert landscapes, soft surface trails and rural "Mexican Coastal Ranch" architecture. Comprehensive building design guidelines ensure that the homes of Oasis Palmilla capture the elements of this style, including intimate landscaped courtyards, wide roof overhangs, barrel-tile on shaped roofs, verandas, arcades, traditional decorative Mexican tile and native stone. Ocean view and golf course view home sites are between one and 1.7 acres, and run from US$875,000 to just over $1 million. Mountain and golf view home sites are just over a half-acre to a full acre and range from US$695,000 to $875,000.
Hacienda Encantada Resort & Spa
Mexico Grand Hotels has created a unique vacation destination — the Hacienda Encantada Resort & Spa, which joins its sister property, the Marina Fiesta Resort & Spa. Located in downtown Cabo San Lucas, Hacienda Encantada offers oceanfront property designed in a contemporary Mexican hacienda style, with such perks as a beachside restaurant, seven swimming pools, tennis courts, hot tub, whirlpool spa, DVD player, satellite TV, microwave and wireless Internet, as well as a restaurant-bar, full-service spa and shopping center. Properties comprise studios, one- and two-bedroom accommodations and a penthouse with breathtaking views of Land's End.
Mexico Grand Hotels has also created the Marina Golden Zone, a one-stop shopping and dining plaza located in downtown Cabo San Lucas next to the Puerto Paraíso Mall. This distinct boardwalk area has a fascinating atmosphere where you can discover the essence of the Huichol culture and its traditions, learn the nuances of tequila or dine at one of several exquisite restaurants. Visit www.clubhaciendaencantada.com or call 1-866-360-9003.
Las Mañanitas
One of San José's finest beachfront condominium complexes is Las Mañanitas. Preconstruction prices start at US$525,000 for a 2,106-square-foot, two-bedroom luxury condominium in the Brisa building. "Everything is taken care of so our owners can just relax and enjoy their vacation home," says Mike Schaible, the project's developer. With spectacular views of San José Bay, Las Mañanitas offers great features, including Travertine floors, granite kitchens, marble bathrooms and brand-name appliances like Viking, SubZero and Bosch. Units feature large covered terraces in two- and three-bedroom condominiums, and penthouses include private rooftop terraces with spa. Ground-floor units offer large private gardens in addition to expansive terraces. The cascading pool and poolside veranda are masterfully situated along the large putting green. Construction of the nearby Jack Nicklaus golf course at Puerto Los Cabos will also be a draw for Las Mañanitas property owners.
For those planning on vacationing at Las Mañanitas, Schaible offers another incentive: During your stay, should you decide to purchase a residence in the Brisa building, your travel costs will be reimbursed. For more information visit www.bajavacations.com.
Rolling Hills Estates
Located just a short eight-minute drive from Cabo San Lucas on the road to Todos Santos, Rolling Hills Estates stretches from the highway 2.5 miles down a breathtaking hillside toward the Pacific Ocean. There are 650 home sites that range from 13,200 to 20,500 square feet. All have views of the Pacific Ocean and panoramic desert mountains. Many also have views of Cabo San Lucas and the bay. At Rolling Hills Estates, you will enjoy an ever-changing canvas of ships, whales and beautiful sunsets in what developer John Thomsen says is the hottest real estate market in this hemisphere.
Pedregal
Pedregal de Cabo San Lucas is the premier and private residential community in Cabo San Lucas. Growing steadily for the last 30 years, it represents the best of the old world and all that's new. Breathtaking views, cobblestone streets and modern amenities, as well as privacy and a relaxed tropical lifestyle, are part of owning a Pedregal property.
Pedregal maintains the highest quality in construction of homes — and improvements to existing homes — with beautiful gardens and elaborate stonework adding to the elegance of many properties. Once you see them, you will not be surprised that several Pedregal homes have been featured in publications such as Forbes, Architectural Digest, Baja Life, Distinctive Homes and on the television show "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous."
To encourage quality protection in Pedregal, there is a homeowner's association, which includes an architectural control committee that approves all construction plans and protects the views from adjacent lots, thus securing your investment and maintaining a degree of uniformity. For more information, visit www.pedregal.com or e-mail info@pedregal.com.
Capella Pedregal
Capella Pedregal is a 24-acre community that stretches from the Pacific coastline to the top of famed Pedregal Mountain in Cabo San Lucas — a community of 20 private casonas, 31 residences and a 66-room luxury hotel that incorporates the rich heritage and architecture of the region.
Among the advantages of ownership at Capella Pedregal is the spaciousness of the resort. Each home is strategically situated to receive an abundance of natural beauty and light, while preserving the privacy that makes your retreat so intimate and offering a myriad of amenities to create a truly personal experience.
The concierge service is impeccable. The staff caters to your likes, your tastes, and is always stocking what you'll need and anticipating what you'll want — almost as if they had a sixth sense. Valet and transportation services provide access to any destination, while three exquisite restaurants offer culinary creations inspired by the traditional flavors of Mexico. Owners also have access to the exclusive Capella Pedregal Yacht Club and its prized fleet of luxury sporting yachts. For more information, visit www.capellacabo.com.
Casa Dorada
In 2005, construction of Casa Dorada at Médano Beach began, and it promises to surpass all other Baja vacation ownership properties with its luxurious residences that range from 900 to 4,200 square feet. The resort offers 140 one-, two- and three-bedroom residences, as well as the most spectacular penthouses in Los Cabos. All penthouses offer unobstructed views of the bay and the famous Land's End, with indoor and outdoor whirlpool spas, barbecue grills, plasma TVs and all the amenities expected from a five-star resort.
The resort lies on five acres of prime beachfront real estate in the heart of Cabo San Lucas and will feature two infinity pools, two restaurants, three bars, a private beach club, covered parking and walking distance to all of Cabo San Lucas' popular establishments. Owners at Casa Dorada at Médano Beach will also have access to other world-class activities and amenities, including a spa center and gym. Service and style are the way of life here, as members receive the benefits of Interval International's Gold membership as part of their ownership. For more information, visit www.casadorada.com.
The Residence Club at Monuments Beach
The Residence Club at Monuments Beach is a private residential enclave of elegant, fully furnished three- and four-bedroom beachfront residences overlooking the Sea of Cortés. Club owners enjoy use of the Club's infinity pool, five jetted spas, fire pits, outdoor bar and restaurant, fitness center, lounge and direct access to a secluded swimming and surfing beach. The Club staff ensures that you enjoy worry-free ownership and hassle-free vacations. There are only eight Club owners per residence, and each enjoys frequent and flexible lodging privileges.
The Residence Club at Monuments Beach is owned by you and your fellow owners, and operated exclusively for your enjoyment. Each owner has a one-eighth debt-free, undivided interest, as beneficiary in one of the Club's fully furnished residences, and an interest in the project amenities. With comparable beachside Cabo homes sporting US$3 million price tags, Club ownership is even more appealing.
In addition to its attractive price, Club ownership provides privileges and an elite location — just steps from the beach and only five minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas.
Even better, you never have to worry about the usual hassles of vacation home ownership — the Club handles all maintenance and upkeep. The Residence Club at Monuments Beach is yours to enjoy whenever you like, as often as you like, in accordance with Club reservation policies. Current pricing begins at US$375,000. For information, call 1-866-41Monuments or visit www.monumentsbeachclub.com.
Chileno Bay Club
The Chileno Bay Club project, located four miles north of Cabo del Sol, encompasses an estimated 2.5 miles of coastline along the Sea of Cortés, including Chileno Bay. The 1,300-acre resort-style community features a private marina and yacht club, the Inn at Chileno Bay for sponsored guests and numerous other amenities. It will also feature two golf courses, one designed by Tom Fazio and the other by Jack Nicklaus. Mike Humphreys spearheads the development team; he first teamed with Fazio on the Vintage Club in Indian Wells, California. Plans call for 600 residences, including two- to eight-bedroom villas, with estates starting at US$3 million, and a limited number of ocean estates available from $8 million.
Vacation Rentals
Earth, Sea & Sky Vacations
Representing more than 100 villas and 40 resorts, Earth, Sea & Sky Vacations (ESSV) was the first company to offer private villa vacation rentals in the southern tip of Baja Peninsula. Guests can chose from a variety of high quality on-site services, combining the privacy of the villa lifestyle with the same amenities offered at luxury resorts. These services include: personal concierge service by on-site staff; food and beverage pre-stocking; private gourmet chefs and catering; butlers and housekeepers; complete in-villa spa treatments; VIP transportation; entertainment, special events and wedding planning; and arrangements for activities and services like fishing, golf, boating, day tours, cell phone rentals and child care. ESSV represents more than 40 of Cabo's finest resort hotels, with innumerable choices of suites and deluxe rooms to suit a wide range of preferences. For more information, visit www.cabovillas.com or call 1-800-745-2226.
CaboTrip.com
How did you plan your Cabo trip? Those in the know prefer to visit CaboTrip.com, which offers luxury vacation rentals ranging from resort hotels to charming beachfront casitas and personal villas. CaboTrip.com will craft a vacation for you that will satisfy your desire for rest and relaxation. CaboTrip's concierge services can also arrange for chefs or butlers to complete your villa experience, as well as pre-stock your casita with the delicacies of your liking prior to arrival. Work with their consultants to arrange spa treatments, golf packages, fishing charters, transportation or any adventurous vacation activity. Visit www.cabotrip.com or call 1-800-403-6597.
Real Estate Services and Agencies
Cabo Dream Homes Design Center
Building and designing a home from abroad can be challenging. Don't have nightmares about your "dream home." Cabo Dream Homes Design Center, located on Km. 29 near San José del Cabo, unites three leading companies to offer one-stop shopping for clients. Dream Homes of Cabo Real Estate partners with MDS, a leading construction and project management firm with more than 26 years' experience in Mexican development and construction. Also a partner is Treasures Furniture, a reputable design showroom from California. They offer professional design services for homeowners featuring a variety of the finest brand names and manufactures in home furnishings and interior design. Together this team focuses on servicing customers who are building high-end custom homes, as well as large-scale resorts and communities.
The Cabo Dream Homes Design Center allows you to complete your investment with the acquisition of land, engagement of construction, design and furnishing. They can also market your investment with Cabo Trip Luxury Vacation Rental Program. Because of its success, Dream Homes of Cabo is building a second center, which will include on-site land planners, architects, interior designers and more. From concept to reality, trust Dream Homes of Cabo to assist in your construction wants and needs. Call 1-800-403-6597.
Land's End Realty
With more than 10 offices covering La Paz, San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, Land's End Realty has the locations, listings and experienced staff to assist you in acquiring any real estate you desire in Baja Sur. Whether you're looking to retire, relocate, invest or all three, Land's End can provide what you want. Its inventory includes Baja land, view lots, condos, homes and commercial property.
Sean Bagg, founder of Land's End Realty, has been involved in the Baja real estate business since 1986. Having grown into what has become an impressive force in the Baja Sur market, Bagg and his professional team operate from strategically located offices in Los Cabos, La Paz and San José del Cabo to make buying or selling real estate easy. For more information on Land's End Realty, visit www.landsendrealty.com.
Baja Properties
Baja Properties is a general real estate company offering beach and golf lots, private homes, condominiums and commercial development opportunities. The company's team of professionals will find the perfect property for your individual needs in the right location for you. With more than 20 years' experience, Baja Properties represents properties for sale in the five areas that compose Los Cabos: San José, the Corridor, Cabo San Lucas, East Cape and Los Barriles.
Baja Properties has a staff of 30 knowledgeable professionals who are recognized as the best in the business. If you are serious about investing in Los Cabos, be sure to see Tortuga Bay, on the beach in San José. These unique luxury condominiums and villas are in their preconstruction phase, with brisk sales and everything you would want in an exclusive beachfront residential condominium. In addition to its eight offices and regular offering of Baja Properties News, the company has loads of information on its website at www.bajaproperties.com.
Ehrenberg & Associates/Pisces Real Estate
Pisces Real Estate specializes in new home communities and has served the greater Los Cabos region for two decades. The company can show you various investment opportunities currently available in the area. As members of the Los Cabos Chamber of Commerce and Multi-List Los Cabos, Pisces Real Estate has at its disposal more than 1,000 listings at any given time.
Taking a different approach to customer service, Pisces Real Estate strongly believes that high-pressure tactics are a thing of the past. Instead, they listen to clients and try to match their desires with an investment opportunity that will suit their needs. "Service to the client is the key to satisfaction, and we are willing to go to any length to make sure our clients are truly satisfied with their investment decision," says Marco Ehrenberg, head of Ehrenberg & Associates and Pisces Real Estate.
Some of the most coveted homes in the world are located on a golf course or beside an ocean. That's why Los Cabos is so appealing. Pisces Real Estate features Las Gardenias, which combines both elements. Las Gardenias is a collection of villa-style condominium homes adjacent to the 11th fairway of Cabo Real, the Robert Trent Jones II-designed golf course, with a breathtaking view of the Sea of Cortés.
Each home features quality appointments and flexible floor plans. These homes are ideal for vacationing or seasonal/permanent residence. Las Gardenias also features a swimming pool complex and tennis courts, with meticulous maintenance and security. All the features you would expect are included (landscaping, satellite TV, parking garage, etc.). Preconstruction prices in Phase 2 start at US$460,000. For details, contact Pisces Real Estate at www.piscesrealestate.com.
Snell Real Estate
Snell Real Estate is the largest independent brokerage in all of Baja, representing the exclusive developments of Villas Del Mar, Palmilla, Oasis Palmilla, Espíritu Del Mar, Cabo del Sol and Punta Ballena. Cabo del Sol is an 1,800-acre community with two golf courses and single-family oceanfront, ocean view and fairway home sites, plus a condominium community. Espíritu Del Mar is a luxurious Mexican Village nestled in a hillside, featuring breathtaking vistas, overlooks and natural desert arroyos. Palmilla offers oceanfront, ocean view and golf view communities with custom home sites, as well as four mid-range and high-end villa communities, and two exclusive ocean view communities.
According to Chris Snell, Snell Real Estate represents 85 percent of the area's luxury real estate market. It also exclusively represents the development of Playa de La Paz in La Paz, two hours north of Los Cabos, along with general and commercial real estate in Los Cabos.
Stewart Title Los Cabos
Working with multinational corporations and second-home buyers, Stewart Title Los Cabos delivers cutting edge title and real estate information services. Real estate transactions depend on accurate and transparent information. Stewart Title Los Cabos delivers the solution.
Stewart Title Los Cabos is part of the Stewart Title Latin America network in Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean, providing customers with a suite of services that add transparency, security and peace of mind to real estate transactions. When investing in real estate, Stewart's financial strength, professional service and leading technology will make your transaction successful. For more information, visit www.stewartlat.com.
Prudential California Realty - Cabo Gold Division
Helping you find your perfect piece of the Baja is the main goal at Prudential California Realty, Cabo Gold Division. Broker/Partner Debra Dodson ensures that every client and future homeowner is rewarded with the seamless purchase of a beautiful home. "We offer clients the luxury and confidence that goes with working with experienced professionals and an internationally respected organization," she says.
Through Dodson's leadership, Prudential Cabo Gold has become an elite and aggressive company with a professional sales team of 47 agents. For more than 28 years, Dodson has successfully marketed real estate in the United States and Mexico, establishing the first three Prudential franchises in Mexico.
Prudential California Realty, Cabo Gold Division represents dozens of listings throughout Los Cabos. For more information, visit www.prucabogold.com.
Riveras Realtors/Coldwell Bankers
The Díaz Rivera family has overseen the building of more than 300 homes within Pedregal, ranging in size from 3,000 square feet to more than 20,000 square feet. When they wanted to apply their knowledge of quality home sales and top-notch service outside Pedregal, they joined forces with Coldwell Banker, an international brokerage franchise and one of the chief commercial real estate entities in the world.
Coldwell Banker Riveras began providing real estate service to the region in 2002. Since then, the company has been honored twice as Mexico's No. 1 sales office. The key factors for this are the total quality improvement programs integrated in daily operations and the family values on which the company hinges. With more than 15 sales associates and 30 years of experience from the Díaz Rivera family, Coldwell Banker Riveras is committed to helping you find your dream home and making the process easy. For more information, visit www.cbriveras.com.
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