I Asked a Mexico Real Estate Expert About Retiring in Mexico (E210)

Guest Bio

Greg Gunter is the Founder and Broker/Owner of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Mexico. A 17-year resident of San Miguel de Allende, he specializes in helping Americans and Canadians relocate, retire, and invest in one of Mexico's most popular expat destinations.

Topics Discussed

• Why Americans are retiring in Mexico
• San Miguel de Allende vs. beach destinations
• Cost of living and purchasing power
• The "Four C's": Cost, Climate, Culture & Community
• Renting before buying
• Buying property as a foreigner
• Coast vs. inland property ownership
• Safety, crime and cartel misconceptions
• Healthcare and Medicare in Mexico
• Residency and visa requirements
• Bringing pets across the border
• Investment properties and rental income
• Real estate appreciation in San Miguel
• Why retirees move back to the U.S.
• Common mistakes first-time buyers make

Main Points

• San Miguel offers a spring-like climate year-round without the humidity of coastal Mexico.
• The city combines lower living costs with a vibrant cultural scene and a large English-speaking expat community.
• Foreigners can own property directly (fee simple) in central Mexico, unlike many coastal areas that require a bank trust.
• Most buyers are Americans purchasing second homes for retirement or seasonal living.
• Healthcare is high quality and significantly less expensive than in the U.S.
• Property taxes, utilities, and household help are dramatically cheaper than in the United States.
• Greg recommends renting in different neighborhoods before buying to find the best fit.
• Safety concerns about Mexico are often generalized; San Miguel has a longstanding reputation as one of the country's safest cities.
• Many retirees eventually return to the U.S. primarily because of grandchildren or age-related health needs.
• Long-term appreciation and lifestyle are often bigger draws than rental income alone.

Top 3 Quotes

"We always talk about the four C's: cost, climate, culture, and community."

"I'm selling the lifestyle down here—it's not really sticks and bricks."

"They're going to carry me out in an urn. I'm never leaving."

How to Find Greg

• Website: Dream Pro Homes Luxury – dreamprohomesluxury.com
• Email: greg@gregorygunter.com
• Phone: +1 (877) 878-4141
• Company: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Mexico (San Miguel de Allende)

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