Utilities and Expenses of Homeownership in Puerto Vallarta

Purchasing a luxury property at Garza Blanca Signature Residences in Puerto Vallarta is attractive for so many reasons, not least of which is the comfort and ease with which homeownership in Mexico can become part of your reality without having to tear your hair out with how to pay your bills and utility expenses and so forth in Spanish. With the Signature Residences homeowners’ association available for advice and most of your monthly expenses included in one itemized sum within your maintenance’s fees, it is not surprising why purchasing a home at Garza Blanca is so appealing.

Nevertheless, here are some general tips and pointers about utility bills and the expenses associated with homeownership in Puerto Vallarta for those who like to keep on top of all eventualities.

Utilities in your Name

It will be of great benefit to you to have at least one utility bill in your name. A utility bill is often a requirement for proof of address for various institutions, including immigration and renting services etc.

Pre-Pay Options

If you do not live in Puerto Vallarta all year round, you will be glad to hear that most utilities have a pre-pay option to cover your bills while you are away from Banderas Bay for an extended period. At Garza Blanca Signature Residences, we can make it easy for homeowners to pre-pay maintenance fees by leaving a voucher signed to pay for your monthly maintenance fees.

Get a Bank Account

Opening a bank account is a really good idea, not only to transfer funds to live on but also to manage your bills. Choose a bank that offers the service to pay bills on-line so that you do not have to be present in Puerto Vallarta to keep up with your payments. It is also recommended that you shop around to see which banks (and specific branches) have good customer service and someone who speaks good English.

Maintenance Fees

At Garza Blanca Signature Residences maintenance fees are charged every month, but some properties charge quarterly fees and offer discounts for advance payments.

Property Taxes (“Predial”)

Property taxes should be paid each year and is a simple task that takes place at City Hall next to the main plaza in front of the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church or paid on-line. All you have to do is provide your Property Tax ID number (Cuenta Catastral) with a copy of your deeds or the bill from the previous year. Paying in January or February can also get you a discount. Property taxes for fractional owners at Garza Blanca Signature Residences is already covered by your monthly maintenance fees.

Rental Income

By renting your property for a portion of the year, you can help to offset your maintenance costs. Just remember that you will be liable for the taxes that this income generates. Get some accounting advice and register yourself with “Hacienda” (tax) for rentals so that you can enjoy the benefits of renting your property legally.

A la Carte Services

One of the benefits of being a Garza Blanca Signature Residence owner is that everything is taken care of by our resort team, making home owning hassle free. If there is something your need that is not covered by your maintenance fees, you are sure to find it in our a la carte services that include, grocery stocking, in residence chef, butler service, airport pick ups, property management and more.

If you have any further questions regarding expenses and utilities, please leave your comments below so that we can get you the right answer or even dedicate a blog post to your query.