How to Market to the Post Crisis Buyer

Playa de La Paz

KiZa Associates in La Paz, Baja Sur is a project based Marketing and Sales company.  We offer what we believe to be the best inventory in La Paz.

I recently read an article about the current  Real Estate market that was so accurate that I stole the title!  Actually I did not steal the title nor the article, but was given permission to publish this piece which was written by Claudia Conella from Reveal Real Estate, whose market is primarily South America.   These insights are so well written and accurate I felt compelled to share them.

Characteristics of the Post Crisis International investor.

1. They are more informed and will demand better service from the industry.

2. They will not make decisions based on thin slices of information, but will demand openness and transparency.

3. As a general rule, they are skeptical of promises made by developers on their websites and brochures.

4. They are wary of pre construction properties, preferring to purchase completed real estate, with amenities they can enjoy right now.

5. They want to understand the financial health of the community before they invest.

6. They will be drawn to real estate that is a bit low key.

7. They are interested in properties that generate revenue in the short term.

8. In addition they are motivated by lifestyle factors, not just financial gain.

9. They are focused on areas with a low cost of living, good health care and safe streets.

10. They will avoid areas with over-supply risk and copy-cat developments.

11. They will seek safe haven investments and tax friendly environments.

12. They are interested in contributions to larger concerns such as environmental preservation, the local community and sustainable approaches to building, water and energy.

Moon setting ...sun rising..The Malecon in La Paz

Wow!  This is exactly what we experience with our clients.  We have been talking about these points in this blog for the last year.  Green building, lifestyle of La Paz, value over price, lower densities, quality over quantity.

Thank you Claudia for sharing your insights and for allowing me to share them with others.  There is a link to the Reveal Real Estate site on this wordpress, we look forward to working with Claudia and her team through 2010.

We know that many potential clients will be coming to La Paz this year.  This is our offer to you.  Once you are here, you are our guests for 3 nights.  We look after your accommodation, we treat you to a day on the ocean, a day touring in one of our off road vehicles and some fine Mexican cuisine.  We will tour the best properties in La Paz, and you make your mind up for yourself if La Paz is for you.  Don’t blame us if you fall in love and buy something!  If you knew what we know….you would live here too!

Drop us a comment, or email me directly at rory@kizaassociates.com.

Playa de La Paz – Ready when you are!

Shot from Crane

Playa de La Paz, five minutes from downtown La Paz in Baja Sur is open for business.   All the hard work and attention to detail has paid off, this is a wonderful project, luxurious and exclusive.

Our first owner will be taking occupancy of their new Residence by the end of the month!  It is great to see how excited they are to be moving to La Paz, to their new home on the Beach.

Phase one Playa de La Paz

Owners need to bring their clothes and their tooth brush!  Well they need to furnish the unit.

With so many standard features, Playa de La Paz is the perfect choice.   Our owners are looking for a “Key” more than anything.  A home that is ready for them to occupy, a Residence that feels like a “Home” the moment you move in.   They do not want to have to purchase appliances and home entertainment equipment, they want a seamless transition, a home away from home.

Living area, Residence 107

This is a “turn key” property.   There are many furniture options for new owners.  We have furniture packages available of every description, right down to the cutlery, pots and pans and linens!

The standard kitchen features of eight appliances including a wine fridge, warming drawers, cooling drawers and all major appliances mean a quick trip to the grocery store to complete the inventory.

The “Whole Home” audio feature including the 50 inch plasma and 600 watt Denon stereo system means all you need to bring is your favorite CD, or your iPod.   There is an iPod docking station in all the bedrooms and living room!

Sunset from Playa de La Paz

All that is left to do is enjoy the sunset from your terrace, while you sip on a Margarita or your favorite beverage.

Playa de La Paz is truly a luxurious sanctuary, but also an incredible investment opportunity.  An average of $400.00 a square foot for a Beachfront residence with the standard features that are being offered make this not only “the best address in Baja” but also “the best investment in Baja”    If you do have interest in Baja give us the opportunity to show you what we have to offer.  Please contact us by leaving a comment on this post, or contact me directly at rory@kizaassociates.com

A Happy New Year to all of you from KiZa and Playa de La Paz.

Looking north from building one

As we close out the year with detail work on Playa de La Paz, we are reminded of the past year, and reflect on how much work has gone into this remarkable project.  The other day we filled the pool.

At times we had up to 240 people working on this project.  It looked like an ant hill!

172 foot swimming pool.

The details are being finalized with loving care, and cleaning is underway, making sure everything is immaculate.   This is a true labor of love on the part of Jeffrey Curtis, who’s passion for Playa de La Paz is evident through out.    A remarkable tribute to fine architecture and a luxury residence on a pristine beach in the best city in Baja Sur.

Living area, Residence 107

This photo shows the living room of unit 107, a ground floor three bedroom with direct access to the pool deck.

This is an impressive suite, ample room for a large family, 3.5 bathrooms and  a ‘whole home audio’ package, that is standard in all units including ceiling speakers and an iPod station in every room…not the bathrooms!

Open Terrace on 107, direct access to pool

This unit features access to the terrace from the Living room, the vestibule, the dining room and the Master bedroom.

The terrace has both covered and open areas and a granite topped wet bar.  It features access directly to the pool deck from the open terrace.

Residence 107 features the standard features included in all units.

This unit is a show unit, a model suite, but could be sold fully furnished for a complete ‘turn key’  Condo.  Bring your toothbrush and move in!

KiZa also can provide a full concierge service for any client ranging from help purchasing furniture to where to get your dog groomed.

Black Galaxy Granite counter tops

Here we see the kitchen of unit 106.  This is another show suite.

The granite in this kitchen is called Black Galaxy.  The silver flecks in the black base give on the impression of twinkling stars, it is really a rich and alluring finish.

The cabinetry is a  lighter wood than 107, and contrasts well with the dark finishes and he stainless steel appliances.

Presidential one bedroom

Residence 105 is a very unique unit.  We call it the Presidential one bedroom.   The living room, Dining room, and Master Bedroom all open to the terrace area, which is steps away from the pool deck.

The wet bar on the terrace features an under counter ice machine, beverage center and a 54 bottle wine fridge.

Moon setting ...sun rising..The Malecon in La Paz

I got lucky this morning and caught a unique photo opportunity.

6:30 this morning, the sun was rising and the full moon was setting over the Sea of Cortez.  The orange of the sunrise is bouncing off the sidewalk,  bench and the top of the palm tree.

Exceptionally beautiful morning.  Which is why we say…“If you knew..what we know..you would live here too”

On behalf of KiZa and Playa de La Paz, we wish you a very happy and prosperous New Year.

Please drop us a comment, or contact me at rory@kizaassociates.com

Playa de La Paz – “The best address in Baja”. Near Completion.

Playa de La Paz- La Paz, Baja California Sur is truly a unique and inspired property, and as phase one nears completion, I wanted to share a few notes about this exceptional project.

Building one of phase one.

Photos taken last night at sunset reveal a sense of the dramatic as the blue of the sky and the blue of the pool frame  this one of a kind development.

A total of 63 Residences and Villas, no two alike, in a beach front setting that features privacy, luxury and exclusivity.   Many of those who have toured describe this development as “the best in Baja”.   Nine of the first 23 units have been sold.

Kitchen of unit 107 with eating peninsula center and sink area to the right, note granite splash up to the cabinets.

Standard features in each kitchen include 8 appliances.   Fridge, stove, range top, microwave, wine fridge, cooling drawers, warming drawers and a dishwasher.

Eight different types of granite were used throughout phase one.   Each setting off the hand made custom cabinetry done with 7 different types of wood, on site in the carpentry shop.

Entertainment area with 50 inch LG Plasma Panel, and Custom made entertainment system.

Whole home audio is standard in every unit, which includes a 50 inch flat screen, a Denon 600 watt stereo system, a 400 watt sub woofer, ceiling speakers in every room except bathrooms and an iPod docking station in every room.  The entertainment console is custom made for each unit.

That’s entertainment!

Original architecture

The list of standard features is too long to include in this log.

It is a very ambitious project on the part of the developers, who are on site every day working with Project Manager, Les Zwaryck of Newtek Construction Solutions.

Sunset from Playa de La Paz December 20th 2009

This photo shows one of the reason the people who come to La Paz fall in love with the area, the rich lifestyle, the Sea of Cortez and the beauty of Baja.

365 beautiful sunsets a year.  Some more spectacular than others, but all of them capping off a great day in La Paz.

Please contact me for further information on Playa de La Paz, if you have seen the project and are interested, remember there is a price increase January 1st 2010.  Get your reservations in now!

Thanks for reading!  Please send us a comment, and pass this on to any friends that you think may find this report interesting.   I can be reached at rory@kizaassociates.com

rk

Investing in the lifestyle of La Paz: A visit with John Rubino

John Rubino on Tecolote Beach with Espiritu Santo Island in the background

This was John’s first visit to La Paz, and to Baja Sur Mexico, but I am sure that it will not be his last.

John is a financial writer.   Two of the books that he has written are listed later in this blog.  I have finished reading one and am halfway through the other, I recommend both.

John was here to discover possible investments for himself, and evaluate the area.  For those of you who have visited and purchased from us, you know how we work, first you have to experience La Paz, then you have to find the inventory that works for you and your family.   If you don’t like La Paz, it does not make much sense to own a home here!

View of Espiritu Santo from "The Ridge" in La Paz

First stop was Tecolote Beach.   The expanse and beauty of this stretch of beach is impressive to say the least, and judging by John’s reaction in the photo, he agreed.   This photo is taken from one of the lots available at The Ridge, a project 15 minutes from downtown La Paz.   Fully serviced building lots, with views of the proposed golf course, mountains, the ocean, and Espiritu Santo Island.

Windsurfing at Ventanas in La Paz

We have so many beaches in La Paz, we could not get to all of them in a short 5 day visit, but the Beach at La Ventana, an area made famous by windsurfers and Kite surfing was a must.   Not very windy when we were there,  beautiful and warm and a light wind off the water made for a very enjoyable day.  The color of the water, warm sand….

La Concha Pearl will be LEED certified by the U.S. Green Building Council

Next stop was La Concha Pearl.   John has written a great book called “Clean Money” about picking winners in the Green-Tech Boom.    La Concha Pearl is one of the few  projects  in Baja that is registered for LEED certification by the U.S. Green Building Council.    This project of 33 units is half sold out at this time.  Many of the are from La Paz, some  from Mexico city, and most from the U.S.   Saving 70% on energy bills is a good idea.  This project is not only a great place to live, right on the beach, five minutes from downtown, but the savings in energy costs will pay for the HOA fees!  Green buildings also have higher rental occupancy, so it is a triple win scenario.  Live on the beach, save money, earn income.

Playa de La Paz Beach front Residence

Just down the beach another couple of minutes is Playa de La Paz.  Scheduled for occupancy in January of 2010, this is as luxurious a project as you will find anywhere in Baja.   The finishing of Granite and Marble are exquisite,  the grounds and the beach are spacious and inviting.   It offers those clients looking for a Luxury Condo on the beach the best that Baja has to offer.

John with Manuel or Marinaro

We tried to show John the essence of La Paz during his visit, and why we say…“If you knew, what we know…you would live here too”!

We took a day trip on a 50 foot fishing vessel loaned to us by a friend, and John met Manuel who has worked on boats most of his life, and is very knowledgeable about the Sea of Cortez and the area.

Snorkeling with the Sea Lions at Espiritu Santo Island

Espiritu Santo Island host a huge colony of sea lions.  They are accustomed  to seeing people snorkeling in the water, it is safe and exhilarating to be snorkeling in the wild with these playful and curious creatures.    I have never met anyone that did not like this part of our “Show and Tell” on La Paz.   It was an impressive site as the baby sea lions jump and play all around you, welcoming you to their community.

Sunset on the Sea of Cortez

We stopped at one of the quiet bays along the way and enjoyed a wonderful lunch, before heading back to port, escorted by a pod of dolphins along side the boat.   Traveling back at Sunset, and reflecting on the day, one could not help but marvel at all the incredible beauty that you can experience in just one day in La Paz.

A Day on the water with KiZa Associates

This is John’s comment on his trip to La Paz..

Thanks for all your help (and especially your patience) this week, Rory. If I’d come to La Paz on my own, as an American with limited Spanish, I would have almost certainly missed many of the things that make this such a unique place. But with your guidance I saw the real La Paz, and by my last day the question was not whether to buy a property here, but which to buy.

Many thanks to John for allowing us to show off La Paz, its people, and its beauty.  Be sure to pick up his books, they are insightful.  John can be reached at www.dollarcollapse.com

Before making an investment in Mexico, give us chance to show you La Paz, the best investment in Mexico, and one of the best lifestyle investments you can imagine.   For more information on availability of inventory and pricing, please contact me at rory@kizaassociates.com

rk

Circuito Bronco November 8th 2009 Andrea Tomba Racing sponsored by KiZa take First place in Class 6 and Class 8!

Andrea Tomba of ATR Racing

If you love Baja Sur,  La Paz was the place to be last weekend!

The Circuito Bronco was the place to be on November 8th.  This post is a little late, but includes a couple of shots from the awards ceremony last night.

KiZa Associates is very proud to be a sponsor of AT racing.

Airborne

This shot kind of says it all.  Airborne in a 700 horsepower truck!   I love the scenery in this picture!  This is really the cool part about desert racing, you are in one of the most beautiful parts of the world, sometimes driving and sometimes flying!   It was interesting watching other drivers trying to catch Andrea at this point in the race…Not!

Yikes!

Here you can see a spectator re thinking his decision to stand so close to the track!

All the races were exciting, some flips and roll overs and rubbing and nudging, but good clean racing, with no injuries, a few bent axles and a near miss when a horse decided to run on to the track during the Class 8 open event.

Welcome home honey!

Special thanks to Ana Tomba, who is…well she is Ana, and that is all that needs to be said.   An inspirational wonderful person.

Andrea and Ana have been part of the racing world in La Paz for a very long time, and they have contributed much to the sport and to the lives of those around them.

Les Zwaryck from KiZa Associates.

Also Les Zwaryck of KiZa Associates who is a driving force in our business and great partner.

Do not be surprised to see Les behind the wheel of a KiZa truck for the 2010 season!

Just to the right in this photo is a half picture of Daniel Hernadez, sorry I did not take a better shot of him.  Daniel is a key part of KiZa Associates and  has been supportive in so many ways that he needs a separate blog!

The Andrea Tomba Racing Team

We took this shot during one of the test sessions.   This is the ATR team.  They are a dedicated group of talented and hard working individuals who love the sport.  Their dedication and their talent are impressive.  KiZa wishes to thank each and everyone, and those that are not pictured, who support those that are pictured.  As you can see, this is a family affair.  Children, wives, brothers, sisters..everyone involved is spectacular.

Awards Ceremony.

Last night at the awards ceremony, the team received their trophies for the Class 6 and Class 8 wins.

It is great to hear crowds cheer as trophies are being handed out.  The fans in La Paz, the fans in Baja Sur, are the most die hard race enthusiasts in the nation!

Without the fans support of course we would have no racing at all, so we thank all of those that braved hot weather and dusty conditions for hours and hours to see their favorite drivers race by.

Future off road racer

Today was set aside for autograph signing at the local construction expo.  There was a great display of vehicles for fans to view.

This little guy felt right at home practicing his pose for future photos.   Watch out for this kid, he will be in the winners circle in the not too distant future…I wonder what his truck will look like in 20 years!   Here is a photo gallery of some of the shots from the race, and some that did not make it into this post.

Remember, we have lots of very exciting Real Estate for sale in La Paz.   Contact us for more information on Beach Front Condos, the greenest buildings in Baja.   Contact me at rory@kizaassociates.com

Below is a great promo video that our local racer Rigo put together.

Real de Santa Ana in Todos Santos – Fine quality vacation homes for under $200,000.00 USD. Serviced ready to build lots, $30,000.00. Program ends November 30th 2009.

Todos Santos is the only Pueblo Magico in Baja Caifornia Sur, and Real de Santa Ana is the only private gated sub-division in the area.

Rendering of Real de Santa Ana community

Real de Santa Ana is phase one of a multi phase development program that is the dream of the Santa Ana family of La Paz.

The concept at Real de Santa Ana is to provide reasonably priced homes in an environment that offers privacy, security and a sense of community.

A commericial area will be built near the main entrance, which will offer a variety store and other services.

The property is on the right hand side of the highway at the entrance to Todos Santos as you drive from Cabo San Lucas.

Model Home, Todos Santos

There are three model homes to choose from.  This home is the Todos Santos Model.  It is a two story home with the master bedroom and bathroom on the main floor.  The kitchen, living room and dining room are spacious.   A separate Casita at the rear of the home features two full bedrooms and bathrooms and is completely seperate and accessible without going through the main house.

Second floor loft on Todos Santos Model home

The second floor loft in the Todos Santos model can be used as a sitting room, a small office, or a guest bedroom if needed.

This room features a wood floor stained in a rich dark brown.   This area leads on to the expansive balcony which overlooks the area, offers views to the ocean, the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range and the city of Todos Santos.  This home is offered for sale at $200,000.00 USD.

Casa Laguna

This is the Casa Laguna home.  This two bedroom 3 bathroom home is finished in the natural stone from the foot hills of the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range, which you can see from the front door.

Laguna Model Courtyard

This is a traditional Hacienda design with a center courtyard that is so unique in Mexico.  The courtyard is the gathering place for family and friends.  Many people actually have their dinning room outdoors, the large patio doors open to the kitchen area of the home, and the courtyard could also have a small kitchen.  This center courtyard offers easy access to a pool which could be built in the back yard.   This home is offered for $190,000.0o USD.

Webber Home, Casa Oasis

This is the Oasis model home which is a threee bedroom, with one Master Bedroom in the main home, and a separate Casita in the back that has two full bedrooms and bathrooms.

Casa Oasis Kitchen

The standard features of the kitchen include an electric stove and oven, granite counter tops and double stainless steel sinks with Kohler faucets.

Ceiling fans are installed, all lighting is installed and the living room and bedrooms are prepared for Mini split air conditioning installations.

Travertine flooring is standard through out these homes.   These home are well appointed, ready to furnish and enjoy.

This model home has already been purchased.

RDSA plan with sold inventory

This area map shows the layout of the whole of the Real de Santa Ana community, and the lots and homes that have been sold.   The building lots are all 500 square meters or 5,370 square feet.  These lots are ready to build with water, sewer and power to the edge of the lot.   Priced at $30,000.00.

Owners must agree to start  and complete their home within a specified time frame.

Please contact us for further information on these homes and lots.   Remember this is a limited offer until the end of November 2009.  There are only two homes for sale, we expect these to go first.   Please contact us at rory@kizaassociates.com or leave a comment on this post.   Hope to see you all soon in Baja!

Marinas – Part of the Lifestyle of La Paz

One of four Marinas in La Paz, Marina de La Paz

La Paz is the State Capital of Baja California Sur, a Port on the Sea of Cortez, and also one of the Baja’s most desirable destinations for owners of private yachts.

We have four major Marinas in La Paz,  and more in our future which we can tell you about soon.   These are all full service Marinas, with all of the amenities necessary for a comfortable stay on board.

Marina Palmira

Fees are much more reasonable than those Marinas to our south.

Two of the Marinas are walking distance to downtown La Paz.

Slips up to 130 feet are available, with full facilities and services including cleaning and general maintenance is available at all of the Marinas.

Marina de La Paz

Many of the worlds famous yachts visit us every year, some for months at a time.

The Michaela Rose pictured here is often in Port.  Others like the Tully, the explorer yacht the Tribu and others from around the world find the facilities more than adequate for extended stays in Baja Sur.

Locals take great interest in these Super yachts arriving in town, some of which stay the whole season.

Balandra Bay

It is not surprising that many come to explore the Sea of Cortez.  It is one of the most beautiful oceans, host to hundreds of species of fish and aquatic life.   There are many Islands to explore, many small bays that are host to some incredible beaches of pure white powdered sand, where you can spend the afternoon just soaking up the sun and relaxing.   KiZa & Associates represents projects close to the Marinas in La Paz.  Scroll through this site to learn more about Beachfront Residences and Villas, and drop us a line at rory@kizaassociates.com

The Lifestyle of Baja; La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico

Downtown La Paz

There are many projects in La Paz that offer a wonderful home for those who choose La Paz as a retirement destination or as just a vacation destination.

We are a Marketing and Sales company.  We specialize in specific inventories that meet our criteria for investment and other important aspects of ownership like construction and quality.

But why La Paz. Why Baja?

Baja Sunrise

The diversity of the area and the activities that are offered are key buying motivators of clients.

Often when we bring clients to see property, we will spend a full day on the water, fishing, boating, going to secluded beaches.  A second day in the desert, Eco Tours or off road excursions.   Someone once asked, “When do we see the Condo”?   The answer is….  “If you don’t like the area…why would you buy here?   People understand the logic immediately….its the lifestyle.

Jack at the beach

a Partial list of things to do in the area.

Whale watching, fishing, snorkeling, surfing, laying on a secluded beach, eco tours, off road tours, art tours, historic tours, sailing, windsurfing, desert hiking, scuba diving, fish tacos and fine dining…you can add to the list as find new things to do during your visit!  The opportunities area endless!

Pre running the Costera 250

Let us know when you are coming or contact us now for more information on the projects that we represent in the area.   Once you get here, we invite you to be our guest for two days of activities, and fun in the Sun!  Then we will show you the inventory that we feel is the best in the area, that offers the best value and investment opportunity.

Paraiso del Mar Golf

Lets not forget Golf!  The Arthur Hills Golf course has been open for play for several months.  This is a challenging course for the seasoned practitioner, and a forgiving course for the novice.  The bunkers are particularly challenging.   Thank you Brian Yoder!!

Please leave a comment on this post and we look forward to seeing you soon in La Paz.   Easy flights from LAX, and still good seat selection for November and December.

rory@kizaassociates.com Drop me a line!

The Desert and La Concha Pearl – Two things that are Green

Aerial image of La Concha Pearl

La Concha Pearl is the Greenest building in La Paz, in fact the Greenest building in Baja California Sur.

I have written before about the technologies and the systems in this incredible project, including how and why this project can save you money.   In these economic times, isn’t that what we are all facing?  Live in Luxury on the beach, and save money doing so….that is a concept we can all agree on.

Living Room looking outside to the patio

Carrying costs on a property are important to our clients that choose La Concha Pearl as a second or third home.  The HOA fees, the fees that all owners share in the maintenance of the whole project, are actually free, if you take into account the savings on energy bills over the year.   Not many Luxury beachfront projects can offer that benefit.

Todos Santos

Another benefit of owning at La Concha Pearl in La Paz, is the beautiful town of Todos Santos, just one hour south of the capital of Baja California Sur.  The rains from Hurricane Jimena have turned the desert bright green.  The cactus flowers are in bloom, and plants that stay dormant for the whole year, suddenly spring to life.    It is clear to see that water is the life force of the area!

Just outside Todos Santos, Baja California Sur

Todos Santos is set between the ocean and the foothills of the Sierra de Laguna mountain range.  This incredible landscape is just beautiful.   Part of owning a home in Baja Sur, is the lifestyle that the area has to offer.

One day you can snorkel in the Bay right in front of your Condo in La Paz, the next, you are on an eco tour in Todos Santos high in the mountains.

Desert flower

We offer these insights into Baja to show potential owners at La Concha Pearl, the rich lifestyle that is at your feet.   You can own one of the best beachfront Luxury Condos available in one of the greenest buildings in Baja Sur, and have a rich and varied lifestyle, not just sit in your Condo.

Half of the inventory is sold at La Concha Pearl.  The remianing inventory is priced from $459,000.00 to 1.3 million.  It is spectacular.  We offer an attractive finance package, we have negotiable discounts for cash, and we promise the most inexpensive luxury condo living in the land.   So go ahead, contact us for more information, let us show you the benifits of ownership in one of the Greenest buildings in one of the greenest areas of the land!  Contact me at rory@KiZaAssociates.com and become part of our community.   We enjoy your comments, please drop us a line. rk