BEST'S Golf Guide to Baja ~ Sea of Cortez

BAJA ~ SEA OF CORTEZ| GOLF’S NEWEST DEVELOPING DESTINATION

BEST’S GOLF GUIDETO BAJA ~ SEA OF CORTEZ

352 Third Street, Suite 308Laguna Beach, California 92651 USA(949) 494-8561 • (949) 494-9292 fax

www.golfinmexico.net

PUBLISHERCharles Kinder

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERFabiola Thébaud - Kinder

ART DIRECTOR, DESIGN & PRODUCTIONChris Partida

DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTIONEva Evans

EDITORKristen Purll

CORPORATE ASSISTANTMaria Ring

SPECIAL THANKS TO:Vera Alvarez del CastilloJaime Alvarez del Castillo

Andres CastellanosMarta CereghinoRalph CosterCarlos HampeJohn Lara

Jose Antonio MurilloCayetana De Regil

ADVERTISING SALES OFFICESUSA

Eleanor Kreis (949) 494-8561

CancúnRaul Ruiz (998) 185-0572

GuadalajaraAndres Castellanos (333) 640-1180

Los CabosRicardo Torres (624) 143-9093

Puerto VallartaCarlos Farias (322) 225-8158

To advertise in Best’s Golf Guides go to:www.golfguidetomexico.com

GGBC1A

Published semi-annually by Golf Publishing

International, a California Corporation. All

rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in

part is prohibited without written permission

from Golf Publishing International. Every

effort wasmade to insure the accuracy of the

material presented. No responsibility for

any errors or omissions of data for golf courses

facilities, resorts or rates. Copyright 2007.

2 BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO BAJA ~ SEA OF CORTEZ WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

Publisher’s Letter

Dear Golf Amigos,

The Mexican Rivera is getting better all

the time! Now world class golf courses span

the Mexican Rivera from Punta Mita, both

Nuevo and Puerto Vallarta, to Costa Alegre

and Manzanillo. In fact, the area holds 8 of

Best’s Top 30 Resort Courses for 2007.

The top honor goes to David Fleming’s El

Tamarindo, reaching #2 in Mexico, a course

carved out of raw jungle that crawls to the

oceanfront; what a golf adventure. Thirty

minutes south lies 36 holes at Isla Navidad

Country Club in Manzanillo, coming in at #5

on this year’s list.

Far north sits Jack Nicklaus’ spectacular

oceanfront and luxurious Punta Mita (#4).

Puerto Vallarta ranks two top-rated courses

at Vista Vallarta with the 18-hole Jack Nicklaus

(#7) and 18-hole Tom Weiskopf (#8) designs.

Gentle slopes, arroyos and undulating greens

have spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.

Marina Vallarta by Joe Finger is ranked #23

along the sea with lovely views of the bay.

Nuevo Vallarta is home to Robert von

Hagge’s water-surrounded El Tigre Club de

Golf at Paradise Village at #15 this year, and

the 25 year-old Flamingos Golf Course (#17)

by Percy Clifford is in splendid shape and avail-

able at a great value.

Spend a week on your next golf vacation

and play a different spectacular course every

day. In fact, why leave Vallarta or Manzanillo

at all - beautiful homes, villas and condos are

available for partial or full ownership in all of

these great destinations!

Five new courses are scheduled for com-

pletion in the next couple of years… some are

underway and ready to open with more

designs by Enrique Valenzuela, Jack Nicklaus

and Greg Norman. These elite architects are

all moving forward with courses along this

beautiful stretch of the Pacific.

Mexico maintains the position as #1 GOLF

DESTINATION (ahead of Hawaii, Las Vegas,

and Florida) for American and Canadian

golfers. Come see why over 660,000 golfers

came to Mexico last year to discover great

golf; now it’s your turn to fill in YOUR Top 10!

If you want another reason to visit and

play golf in Vallarta, join in the fun at the

NCAA Texas Division 1 Men’s Golf Tournament

on February 16, 2008. More information is

available at www.GolfInMexico.net/NCAA. Be

part of this event and play with the future

stars of the PGA tour; our golf events are

casual and most enjoyable for everyone.

For vacation information, visit our #1

Google-rated and informative website at

www.GolfInMexico.net, or contact Best4Golf

Packages on our toll-free US number

1(800)381-7054. For guaranteed tee-times

in Mexico, be sure to visit us at

www.Best4MexicoTeeTimes.com.

See you on the first tee among the palm

trees and the ocean breezes!

Best regards,

Chuck Kinder, CTC

Publisher

Left to right: Chuck Kinder, Publisher of Best’sGolf Guide to Mexico. NAME THIS GUY!

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO BAJA ~ SEA OF CORTEZ 3WWW.BEST4MEXICOTEETIMES.COM

WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET4 BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO BAJA ~ SEA OF CORTEZ

Have you ever noticed how some sporting activitiesseem to go together naturally with certain food andbeverage items? For instance, beer and football, tea andcricket, hot dogs and baseball, martinis and horse rac-ing, bottled water and marathons. So, it’s no surprisethat the sophisticated game of golf pairs up quite wellwith fine wine. Of course, you’ve got your beer lovinggolfers, but it appears that wine is the natural compli-ment to the game of golf and with “life loving” golferswho prefer the better things in life. Golfers are likewinemakers in that they both seek perfection, yet seemto accept the reality of something a little less.Or as Don Miller of AdobeGuadalupe Inn and Vineyardin Baja California states,“Hugo D’Acosta (my wine-maker) likes the challenge ofblending wine and I seek per-fection, but like the game ofgolf, perfection cantake an eternity.”

The new quality winesand challenging golf coursesin Baja California await discovery by adventurousgolfers and wine lovers. The beautiful coastline fromTijuana to Ensenada offers several excellent golf coursesand is located just a few miles from Mexico’s premierwine country. Thirty wineries fuel Mexico’s “silent revo-lution” in creating quality wines and a few moretreasures lie “hidden and undiscovered” in the excellentgolf courses at Tijuana Country Club, Bajamar, Real delMar and the Baja Country Club of Ensenada. In addi-tion, both Tecate and Mexicali feature nice golf courseswith great values and open tee times. And, where youfind good wine and great golf, you’ll often find won-derful culinary delights. Chabert’s restaurant in thefamous Rosarito Beach Hotel offers a superb selectionof Mexican wines paired with palate-tantalizing entrées

created by the culinary wizards in their renownedgourmet restaurant. Lucky explorers discover thecharm and ambiance of this “hidden secret andhistorical treasure” once known as the exclusive restau-rant and lounge for movie stars and royalty. Chabert’sis a fifteen minute drive from the Real del Mar golfcourse and just thirty minutes south of the border atTijuana and San Diego.

Baja California has some excellent golf courses ataffordable fees. Tijuana Country Club is a fifteen minutedrive from the San Diego-Tijuana border. This historicalcountry club accommodates locals and international

golfers who want to enjoy awonderful course designed byAllister MacKenzie in 1927.Green fees Mondays, Tuesdaysand Fridays are just $21 for 18holes!Wednesdays and weekendsare $42 for 18 holes. This clas-sic course is par 72 and 6,859yards. Phone: (888)217-1165or

www.clubcampestretijuana.com.mx. Real del Mar is apublic course with 18 holes, par 72 and 6,800 yards. Thislovely course is located on a hillside overlooking theblue Pacific Ocean at Km 19.5 on the scenic Ensenadatoll road. In fact, it’s just a five minute drive fromDonald Trump’s new condominium project. BajamarOceanfront Golf Resort is another forty minutes southof Real del Mar on the same scenic Tijuana-Ensenadatoll road at Km. 77.5 (22 miles north of Ensenada). It fea-tures a championship course, plus 9 Scottish-links-styleholes, driving range, putting & chipping greens, proshop, with tee times from 6 am - 5 p.m. Phone: (011-52-646) 155-0161. One nice option here at Bajamar is thatyou can play a round of golf in the morning and enjoythe afternoon in Mexico’s premier wine country via a

L.A. Cetto

Author Steve Dryden is a wine and travel writer living in Guadalupe Valley where he guides private and motor coach wine tours. Hecan be reached at 619-300-4976 U.S. [email protected] or www.mexicowinetours.com Steve can arrange tours, lodging and golffor interested individuals or groups.


short and scenic forty minute drive south towardsEnsenada and then east toward Tecate on Highway 3.Baja Country Club is located seven miles south ofEnsenada at Km. 116 and offers a well groomed champi-onship course, open daily from 7 am - 6 p.m. Phone:(011-52-646) 177-5523 or (011-52-646) 177-5524 fromthe US. In addition,Estero BeachResort & RV Park issix miles south ofEnsenada and hasa modern drivingrange. Phone: (011-52-646) 176-6225or (011-52-646)176-6230.

Mexico hasan emerging wineindustry that isproducing someamazing highquality wines thatmatch well withtheir golf coursesand diverse culi-nary delights. DonMiller at Adobe Innand Vineyard canblend his award-winning wineswith superb lodg-ing and fine diningat his charmingand romantic B&Blocated in the“heart” of Mexico’s wine country. L. A. Cetto wineryoffers one of the best Nebbiolo (Barolo) wines in theworld outside of Italy for just $15. In fact, their wine-maker, Camillo Magoni was named top winemaker inthe world in 2004. Vinisterra winery has a cult followingfor its Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot blend and creates

one of the best Tempranillo wines in Mexico or Spain.Several local artisan wineries are gaining popularitythese days by creating small volumes of high qualityhandmade wines. These marvelous wines and more areavailable in the wineries located in Guadalupe Valley,home to ninety percent of all Mexican wines and winer-

ies. Furthermore,this rural andromantic winecountry featuresseveral options forpalate pleasingcuisine fromFrench fusion toMoroccan andeverything inbetween. Do your-self and yourgolf game a favorand drive yourheart into oldromantic Mexicowhere you’ll dis-cover ambiance,hospitality, adven-ture, challengingcourses and finewine. And, if youdon’t find perfec-tion in your golf-ing adventures,remember herein Mexico wealways havemañana. You won’t

be disappointed with the wine!Cass Colbourne, another leader in Wine Tours stated“GolfWine Mexico specializes in providing custom travelitineraries designed to introduce you to the marvels ofMexico, while indulging passions for golf and wine.” Formore information call 1-888-607-1717 or email CassColbourne at [email protected]

Original photo by Tomás Castelazo

Head to Baja for a captivating golf escape at the newlycompleted Las Caras de México Golf Course. Nestledbetween the radiant Sea of Cortez and regal San PedroMartir Mountains, the championship course is part ofthe El Dorado Ranch master-planned community in SanFelipe, Baja California, Mexico.Located within the community’sLa Ventana del Mar Golf andBeach Resort, the 18-hole coursedebuted at the end of 2005. Itwill also play host to the annualEl Dorado Ranch Charity andCelebrity Golf Classic this fall tobenefit the local community.

“Our property offers chal-lenging rounds, exotic back-drops, and a kicked-back getaway where the margaritasand fresh seafood greet golfers at the end of the day. Fortravelers to Mexico seeking such an adventure, we’re ashort two-hour drive from the border,” said Pat Butler,CEO and chairman of Club Acquisition Company, whichowns and manages El Dorado.

Adorned by statues of Mexican heroes and golf stars,

the course is appropriately known as “The Faces ofMexico.” Butler and his team selected Bradford Benz, thearchitect behind the Hyatt Gainey Ranch golf coursein Scottsdale, Arizona, to design Las Caras de México.Benz made sure the course would conform to its

own natural terrain.The course encompasses 40

acres of fairways, three lakes,extensive practice areas, full dri-ving range, and golf shop. Therecently completed, 10,000-square-foot Pavilion features anew gourmet restaurant andtwo-acre lawn, providing a per-fect setting for large affairs suchas business conferences, golf

tournaments, weddings, concerts and more. The facilitywill serve as the main platform for the golf operationuntil the clubhouse, currently under construction, isready to open later this year.

For more information on El Dorado Ranch, contact theCustomer Relations Office at 1-877-787-2624, or visit theweb site at: www.eldoradoranchvacations.com.

EL DORADO RANCH> L A S C A R A S D E M E X I C O G O L F C O U R S E P R E S E RV E S T H E B E A U T Y O F S A N F E L I P E , B A J A <

CANCÚN - LOS CABOS - MANZANILLO - NORTHERN BAJA - VALLARTA

8 BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO BAJA ~ SEA OF CORTEZ

CK: You’re one of the nicest and most

friendly and famous golfers in Mexico.

What was your earliest memory of golf

as a child?

EPA: In 1958 I was shagging golf balls

for Arnold Palmer as a 10 year old, right

here at the Tijuana Country Club.

The entire Perez Acosta family is

involved with golf in Mexico.

How did that come about? Where is

everyone now?

My family lived very close by, and actu-

ally some of us in my family were born

right here at Tijuana Country Club. Part

of the clubhouse facilities in those days

served as the General Hospital of

Tijuana and I and some of my family

were born here. The reason I got

involved with golf, was that we lived

just across the street at Aqua Caliente

were my father worked until they shut

down the casino and the gambling by

President Lazaro Cardenas… they then

turned the casino into a school and my

father started teaching there. In the

morning we went to school, and in the

afternoon we ran across the street to

the golf club.

Were you the first?

No, my older brother, Fidel, started

working here shagging balls and caddy,

sometimes working in the kitchen.

That’s how we started.

You are in what order of the children?

I am the ninth child in my family. My

brother David was the Pro here in 1956

and now he lives and is the Golf Pro in

Hermosillo, and Fidel is in Puerto

Vallarta, he was the Pro at Flamingos

Golf Course for 25 years.

Your son Ernesto Jr. is following in

your foot steps, he is now in the

Cancun/Riviera Maya area at

Fairmont’s Mayakoba Golf Course.

What do you think of him being in the

world of golf?

It is like a dream come true because he

is my only boy. I have two lovely daugh-

ters as well. Ernesto is at the right place

at the right time. I visited with him a

couple of weeks ago during the PGA

event at Mayakoba, it was such a won-

derful experience.

You won the Mexican Open twice, first

in 1971 and then in 1976, during the

time when this event was considered a

national treasure. What were some of

Ernesto Perez Acosta…the Godfather of golf in Mexico. Ernesto Perez Acosta has been involved in the golf arena forover 35 years. He started his career in Tijuana Country Club teaching and playing in the Mexican PGA Tour. Ernesto has a bril-liant career as a player which all added to the history of golf in his country of Mexico and the world. As a player, teacher anda gentleman of the game, Pacific Coast Golf Schools is pleased and honored to have Ernesto as the Director of Instructionin our Tijuana Country Club location in Mexico. He is the winner of TWO Mexican Opens (1971 and 1976), and a member ofEIGHT World Cups starting in 1975 representing Mexico. He is the only Mexico winner of an individual honor in the 1976World Cup… his name is engraved on the World Cup between Gary Player (1977) and Johnny Miller (1975).

Chuck Kinder, Publisher of Best’s Golf Guides interviewed Ernesto Perez Acosta in Tijuana, Baja California on March 7, 2007.

WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

the highlights of your victory?

Well, I beat Lee Trevino… (laughter)

Rigolato, Tom Weiskopf, Ray Floyd.

It was a big tournament then, you can

see the names of past winners carved

into the trophy.

Why hasn’t the Mexico Open event

gained the world’s attention similar to

the Canadian Open or the US Open?

Well, first of all it’s the money.

Anywhere around the world now they

play for a lot of money. How you get the

recognition of a tournament is by get-

ting the top players. You need the big

purses or appearance fee. Like the PGA

event they just had at Mayakoba, it

is a $3.7 million USD event. The

Mexican Golf Federation needs to get

some very big world-wide sponsors.

Like at Mayakoba, they invited the past

winner of the Mexican Open, that’s

great. That is going to attract more play-

ers. Now the winner of the Mexican

Open will get invited to the PGA event

at Mayakoba and that will be very

good for both events.

You also partici-

pated in the World

Cup 8 times repre-

senting Mexico.

What years did

you play?

Oh yes, a few times. I

started playing in

1975 the year that

Johnny Miller and

Lou Gramm won for

the US in Bangkok,

Thailand until 1989,

I played 8 times.

How do you remem-

ber that experience?

The way that they

used to play the for-

mat, they honored the team and the

best individual. In 1977 in Palm Springs,

Spain won the event with the team of

Seve Ballesteros and Manuel Pinero.

Mexico came in fourth in the World Cup

that year and I won the individual event

and now have my name on the World

Cup trophy. The next morning I got an

early morning phone call… I answered a

little tired from the night before

because we celebrated with some

Champagne, and it was Arnold Palmer

congratulating me for my victory. I’ll

never forget his kindness.

Golf is growing tremendously here in

Mexico, in terms of new golf courses

and development. What is your take

on the future of golf in Mexico?

Golf is worldwide now, we are in the

global era. We will see more develop-

ment and resorts like Mayakoba and

each golf course is bringing more

golfers. My son Ernesto says that they

are not splitting up the big pie. No, each

new golf course is bringing more golfers.

If you have a golf course with 30,000

rounds and then the area has 10 golf

courses, you will generate 300,000

rounds. This means more jobs and

investments in Mexico.

Our estimate is that 650,000 golfers

from the US and Canada travel to

Mexico to play golf…

That is good for promoting tourism but

we need to develop new [Mexican]

golfers. You don’t need to pay $350.00

for a round of golf. NO! We have been

saying that for many years, we need

PUBLIC golf courses. Golf courses that

can charge 400 or 500 pesos, that is how

we are going to develop more junior

golfers to continue our sport.

The whole of the Baja is leading the

way for lots of this growth along with

the Cancun area; what do you see in

the next ten years in these two areas?

We are right on the verge of a big

boom... Puerto

Penasco, San Felipe,

there is one golf

course and a new

Nicklaus design, we

keep hearing the

rumors of a big

mega-project just

south of Ensenada

with a hotel and

marina and perhaps

a golf course

designed by TIGER

WOODS, Baja will

catch up with the

rest of the country.

The future is bright.

Enesto, I want to

thank you for your

time… we both have a great love for

golf in Mexico.

Oh yes!

Career Highlights:1971 and 1976 Mexican Open Champion1975 - 1988 World Cup Representative1976 - World Cup Individual Champion1978 - Rolex World Mixed ChampionshipsWon with Nancy Lopez1979 - Mexican Masters Champion1980 - Mexican PGA Champion1992 - 1994 President of the Mexican PGA2000 - Mexican Seniors Champion


10 BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO BAJA ~ SEA OF CORTEZ

Tomás Ehrenberg Aldford, Directorof Financial and Mortgage Servicesfor Business and Governmentin Mexico – (Director General deBanca de Empresas, Hipotecaria yGobierno) at Bancomer,

Q. We welcome BBVA Bancomerinto the new age of MexicoMortgage services, what is the rangeof your products and services?

A. Our BBVA Bancomer offersproducts and financial services forthe construction and sale ofgolf courses, residential develop-ments, hotels, recreational centersand all types of real estate develop-ment in the portfolio of theNational Trust Fund for TourismDevelopment (FONATUR) to foster,stimulate and attract domestic andforeign investors.

Q. Travel, tourism and realestate seem to be very popular now.What does BBVA Bancomer haveplanned for this market?

A. BBVA Bancomer supports thetourism real estate industry inMexico, providing financing forthe development of tourism realestate projects and mortgages toU.S. citizens interested in purchas-

ing a vacation home in the manyresort areas of Mexico.

Q. Funding for investment andresidential projects seems to be inhigh demand in Mexico. How areyou approaching this segmentation?

A. Bancomer makes available tointerested investors and developersthe following services:

Development Loans and MajorProject Loans, in accordancewith the client’s needs and develop-ment programs.

Bridge Loans, for the construc-tion of resort units at all levels ofthe socio-economic spectrum: lowincome housing, middle, residentialand luxury estate homes.

Working Capital Loans, to resolvepayroll, suppliers, and other workingcapital needs.

Q. What type of Mortgage prod-uct do you have for the resident andU.S. citizen consumers looking tobuy real estate in Mexico?

A. Bancomer offers to U.S. citi-zens interested in purchasing avacation home or second home forinvestment, Your Dream Home inMexico program, which providescredit in dollars at U.S. interest ratesup to a maximum of 70% loan tovalue, with payment terms of 15, 20or 25 years (minimum loan amountin US dollars $100,000.00.) Thiscredit is through Laredo NationalBank (LNB) in the United States,part of BBVA Group. ®

Toll free from USA:1(888)723-1151Toll free from Mexico:01800 823 1320www.bancomer.comwww.lnb.com

Mexico Real Estate

BBVA BANCOMER SUPPORTS THETOURISM REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY

by Chuck Kinder

An Interview with Tomás Ehrenberg Aldford

Director of Financial and Mortgage Services for Business and Government in BBVA Bancomer, Mexico

WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET


Your Mexico Real Estate Connection

ARE YOU CONSIDERING A RETIREMENT ORVACATION HOME?

Mexico’s close proximity to the U.S. is agreat benefit to the vacationer or retiree.The lower cost of living,availability of quali-ty resort homes at lower prices comparedwith the U.S., and top-notch medical facili-ties make living in Mexico more attractive.There are many flights that can get you todestinations such as Cabo and PuertoVallarta in less than two hours.Destinations such as Manzanillo areattracting more flights. One can also findbeautiful resort property within atwo-hour drive fromSanDiego.

WHAT TYPES OF OWNERSHIP CAN A FOREIGNERHAVE IN MEXICO, AND WHAT IS THE ACQUISITIONPROCESS?

On the Mexican mainland, a foreignercan purchase property fee simple (directdeed); except when the property is locatedin the restricted zone: 50 kilometers (31miles) from the shoreline or 100 kilometers(62.5miles) from theborders.

Residential properties located in all ofthe Baja Peninsula, and coastal and borderareas within the restricted zone, may onlybe acquired through a Mexican Bank TrustcalledaFideicomiso. Thebank,foranannu-al service fee of $300-$400, serves as atrustee, which holds the legal title to theproperty for up to 50 years. The cost for thepermit to establish a bank trust is less than$1,000 USD. To purchase through aFideicomiso, a foreigner must first register

at the Secretariat de Relationes Exterioresfor a permit to establish the trust. Uponreceipt of the permit, the trustee banksends instructions to a Notario (a governorappointed attorney), who prepares thedeed (Escritura) to the beneficial rights.Applicable taxes are paid (2% of purchaseprice), then the deed is recorded in thelocalmunicipality.

The foreigner, as a beneficiary of theFideicomiso, has the right to use, improve,lease, sell, mortgage, and will the property.Should you die, your estate becomes thebeneficiary. Also a second beneficiary tothe trust can be named on a Fideicomiso toavoid probate. Upon expiration, aFideicomiso may be extended indefinitelyin50-yearperiodswhenonepaystherenew-al fee. After100years, theproperty remainsyours,but anew trustmust be created.

Commercial or non-residential proper-ty in the restricted zone can be purchasedfee simple with 100% foreign capital as aMexicancorporation,without theneedforaFideicomiso, but going through an applica-tion process through the Secretariat deRelationes Exteriores.

Escrow arrangements in Mexico do nottypically exist as in theUS. SomeAmerican-based real estate companies work with ahybridtypeofescrow,incorporatingtheclos-ingcustomsofMexicoandCaliforniaforU.S.-based buyers. Fabiola Thébaud-Kinder hasclose working relationships with the bestnotarios to help better serve its clients.

WHERE CAN WE FIND FINANCING TO PURCHASEHOMES IN MEXICO?

InMexicomost residential real estate ispurchased on a cash basis. Financing ofhomes in Mexico has been customarilydone through a home equity loan on a U.S.buyer’s primary residence. Developers usu-ally offer some type of financing and somewill carry back a portion of the note.Mexicanbanksandfinancecompanieshavebegun to offer loans to foreigners.U.S.-basedmortgagecompaniesareofferinglong term, fixed rate financingwith as littleas 20-30%down.

SHOULD WE BUY A TITLE INSURANCE POLICY?Absolutely! Questions of title may be

resolved through the title company ratherthan through theMexicanCourts. In theUSthings may go wrong with title, and inMexico as well, so it is prudent to get a titlepolicy. The Title insurance policy issued forMexico is 99% similar to an ALTA policy.There are differences in the law and the lan-guage, i.e. there is no Spanish equivalent of“marketability.” Ejido rights and agricultur-al reform have a part in theMexican policy.In addition, in Mexico, mineral rightsbelong to the federal government, not tothe owner of the land.

First American Title Corporation,Stewart Title, and Fidelity National Title area few US-based companies offering titlepolicies inMexico.

*The above is provided as general information.As

laws are subject to change andnot all details canpossi-

blybementionedinthisarticle,werecommendthatyou

seek legal and taxadvice fromaqualifiedprofessional.

Fabiola Thébaud - Kinder is a licensed real estate agent in Laguna Beach, California.With over 18 years management experience at several major international hotel companies, her specialty is hospitality & resort real estate. If you are inter-ested in learning more about real estate in Mexico, please contact Fabiola at (949) 246-2327, www.fabulousresorts.com or email: [email protected]

BUYING REAL ESTATE IN MEXICOby Fabiola Thébaud - Kinder


As a real estate consultant/appraiser and

as an observer to many real estate trans-

actions in Mexico, I have seen a number

of easy transfers and also many long,

frustrating closings. Here is my perspec-

tive on generating a good closing experi-

ence for the Seller. As a selling agent or

as a seller, the best way to insure a clean

closing is to have your “work file” fully

complete at the time you execute the

listing agreement and/or at the time

you are ready to list your property for

sale. A competent listing agent will be

able to inform their clients what will be

expected from them when they are

ready to sell their property. A profes-

sional real estate agent and/or seller will

not only have a complete file ready at

the point of listing. The Selling Agent

should maintain these documents and

replace any updated documents as nec-

essary through closing.

This is just a list of some documents

that the Seller’s Agent should request

from the Seller and need to be in the

Seller’s file in order to adequately per-

form due diligence for the property.

For Single Family Homes (Including

Houses or Villas in Condominium

Horizontal Regimes):

A. Deed of Ownership - A copy of the

Deed showing that the person who

purports to sell the property actually

holds title. This should include record-

ing information of the Deed (datos de

registro);

B. A copy of the Fideicomiso (Bank

Trust) and a copy of the most recent

annual payment.

C. A valid power of attorney will be

necessary in Spanish, in the event that

the Seller is not present at closing,

D. Survey - Some buyers and title

insurance companies request a current

survey.

E. Utility Bills - copies of the latest paid

receipts for water/sewer, electricity, and

telephone services;

F. Property Tax Statement - Copy of the

latest paid receipt of the property tax;

G. Federal Zone Concession &

Oceanfront properties - It is crucial to

see the concession or evidence of appli-

cation for the Federal concession. This is

not optional if there are improvements

constructed within the federal zone

boundaries; remember these waterfront

boundaries fluctuate;

H. List of maintenance expenses - Most

buyers want to see the costs of

maintaining a home;

I. No Lien Certificate from the Public

Registry reflecting no encumbrances (in

essence this is a “prelim” title search);

J. A copy of your original style title

report, if available.

K. Current HOA Budget-Actual budget

for the year that shows what is included

in the maintenance fee and what are the

current payments and assessments (if

applicable).

L. A copy of the annual homeowner’s

insurance policy & payment.

M. Condominium Regime and

Amendments, Recorded Spanish

version- This document will show legal

formation of the condominium and the

bylaws that are in place.

Closings: When there is an accepted

offer by parties, have an experienced

attorney review the necessary docu-

ments and agreements. Have an origi-

nal signed offer, signed by all parties on

the same document.

Closing Costs: In Mexico, the Buyer tra-

ditionally pays the closing costs and the

Seller pays the capital gains tax. The

Seller’s Agent should get an estimate

from the Notario Publico of the capital

gains tax the Seller will need to pay.

Mexico Real Estate

Bruce D. Greenberg, MAI, SRA, ASA is the principal appraiser for Bruce D.Greenberg, Incorporated in Tucson, Arizona and ValuacioñesMontaña Verde, S.A. de C.V. Mr. Greenberg was selected by former Arizona Governor Jane D. Hull as a member of her task forceaddressing consumer guidelines in the acquisition of real estate in Sonora. Governor Janet Napolitano also asked Mr. Greenberg toserve on the Real Estate Ad-hoc Committee under the auspices of the Arizona-Mexico Commission. He is a member of the Financial,Business and Legal Services Committee of the Arizona-Mexico Commission, a member of the National Law Center of Inter-AmericanFree Trade and a national board member of the US-Mexico Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Greenberg has the FM-3 work permit fromthe Mexican Federal Government. He is a member of the Asociacion Mexicana de Profesionales Inmobiliarios, A.C. (AMPI) of Los Cabos,Nayarit and Puerto Peñasco sections and is also a member of the Multi List organizations of Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta and PuertoPeñasco. Mr. Greenberg is registered within the State of Sonora as a real estate professional. Mr. Greenberg can be reached at (520) 750-8200, fax (520) 750-8298, e-mail [email protected] or visit the web page at www.mexicovaluations.com

THE APPRAISER’S PERSPECTIVEby Bruce Greenberg

Checklist for selling/listing property in Mexico

• Luxury Real Estate Sales

• Vacation Home Rentals

• Concierge Services

• Property Management

• U.S. Title Insurance

• U.S. Financing Available

No Matter how you get to Cabo...

... Snell can help you Staywww.snellrealestate.com

Toll Free • 1-888-713-5183

y Ruxur• L

acationVVacation H•

aleseal Estate SRReal Estate S

entalsome RRentalsn H

toperr• P

TTitle I• U S

anagementty M

nsuranceitle IacationVVacation H•

• Concier

w

entalsome RRentalsn H

viceserrge S

TTitle I• U.S.

i• U.S. F

ealestate.snellrwwww.snellree • 1-888-713-5183roll FTToll F

nsuranceitle I

ailablevinancing AAv

e.com183

2007Here’s a winter-inspired rumination:The Internet is one of the bettergolf-friendly gadgets to come downthe pike since Gene Sarazeninvented the sand wedge.

Okay, admittedly the World WideWeb is no cure for a wobbly back-swing and it won’t read 30-footputts. But what it can do, quite mag-ically, is offer a bit of vicarious fan-tasy and motivation by way ofvirtual scenery, spectacular photog-raphy, and live-action video ofgolfers taking dead aim.

The Internet even transmits eat-your-heart-out temperature andweather forecasts. My computer, forinstance, is cued to several Mexicangolf destinations, heavenly placeslike Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta,Mazatlan, and Cancun. It couldinclude Maui or St. Andrews, butwhy bother? Flights to CentralAmerica are inexpensive, frequent,and FAST, most taking about halfthe flying time needed to reach the

Hawaiian and British islands.More importantly, the golf es

magnifico en Mexico, featuring aprized assortment of world-classproperties that meet and frequentlyexceed the high expectations ofeven the most erudite traveler.Quite simply, few places in the worldoffer the high quality and quantityof golf now available in Mexico.

That’s a statement you couldn’tmake 25 years ago. Yes, Mexico isirrefutably rich in Nikon-promptinglandscapes—its myriad coastlinesare incessantly compared toMonterey’s Pebble Beach andFlorida’s South Beach, while its arid,cactus-encrusted desert locales areevery bit as dazzling as Scottsdale orPalm Springs.

But in the early 1980s, much ofMexico’s courses were a hodge-podge collection of muni-styledtracks with clubhouses and pro shopservices to match.What was lacking,quite frankly, was a commitment to

bold, inspired architectural artistry,the kind commonly associated withthe singular talents of Tom Fazio,Jack Nicklaus, Robert von Hagge andArthur Hills.

Mexico no longer lacks—andhow! Tangible assets so essential tomemorable golf have amalgamatedMexico. The country now pulsateswith show-stopping courses under-scored with traditional design ele-ments—like dramatic contouring,sumptuous landscaping, impeccableconditioning, and spike-tighteningshot values.

Customer amenities have takena commensurate leap as well.Forward thinking properties haveinstituted five-star services like pre-mium club rentals, showroom-freshgolf carts, fully stocked pro shops,expansive practice areas, classylearning centers, snap-to attendants,knowledgeable caddies, and graciousclubhouses proffering fine diningand chic locker facilities.

By Chris Duthie

BEST’S

42

3

5

7

1

8

9

10

6

TOP 10 Golf Courses in Mexico

TOP 10Golf courses in Mexico


The result has been both mar-velous and expected: Coupled withMexico’s divine mountain, beachand desert terrain, the country’sbest golf properties have beenrewarded with global recognitionand praise, including one inspiringrouting that has earned a slot onGolf Magazine’s prestigious World’sTop 100 Courses listing. Andbecause success often breeds suc-cess, efforts are underway to crafteven better golf experiencesthroughout the country.

To verify Mexico’s burgeoningriches, we’ve reviewed the country’stop 10 layouts, all of which recentlywere selected and ranked by a blue-ribbon panel of international golf

journalists, travel executives andreal estate developers. Make thempart of your golf travel plans. Afterall, the Internet is but a virtualmeans to an enchanted ending.

Cabo del Sol (Ocean);Los Cabos, Baja SurHow does a resort course

become the best layout in Mexicoand 73rd on earth? (Golf Magazine,September 2005) Take a spectacularSea of Cortez location, build abreathtaking clubhouse with everyluxe bell and whistle, ensure thecustomer service is first rate byincluding exceptional practice andteaching facilities, set aside enoughland where seven of the holes are

surfside, then hire the game’s great-est name, Jack Nicklaus, to choreo-graph it all.

You’ll never see the OceanCourse resting on its well-earnedlaurels. Jack and his design teamrecently renovated the 13-year-oldlayout, a 7,103-yard challenge thatcommands a 147 slope and 74.5 rat-ing from its back tees, modifying 11holes to improve the routing’s lus-ter and enhance its already goldenstature.

No wonder the property is whatevery golf course project in Mexicois measured against—past, present,or future.

Continued on page 36...

1

Cabo del Sol - Ocean Course - Nicklaus



Here’s a winter-inspired rumination:The Internet is one of the bettergolf-friendly gadgets to come downthe pike since Gene Sarazeninvented the sand wedge.


The Internet even transmits eat-your-heart-out temperature andweather forecasts. My computer, forinstance, is cued to several Mexicangolf destinations, heavenly placeslike Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta,Mazatlan, and Cancun. It couldinclude Maui or St. Andrews, butwhy bother? Flights to CentralAmerica are inexpensive, frequent,and FAST, most taking about half

the flying time needed to reach theHawaiian and British islands.

More importantly, the golf esmagnifico en Mexico, featuring aprized assortment of world-classproperties that meet and frequentlyexceed the high expectations ofeven the most erudite traveler.Quite simply, few places in the worldoffer the high quality and quantityof golf now available in Mexico.


But in the early 1980s, much ofMexico’s courses were a hodge-podge collection of muni-styledtracks with clubhouses and pro shop

services to match.What was lacking,quite frankly, was a commitment tobold, inspired architectural artistry,the kind commonly associated withthe singular talents of Tom Fazio,Jack Nicklaus, Robert von Hagge andArthur Hills.


Customer amenities have takena commensurate leap as well.Forward thinking properties haveinstituted five-star services like pre-mium club rentals, showroom-freshgolf carts, fully stocked pro shops,expansive practice areas, classylearning centers, snap-to attendants,

43

2

El Tamarindo Country Club


Palmilla Golf Club


knowledgeable caddies, and graciousclubhouses proffering fine diningand chic locker facilities.

The result has been both mar-velous and expected: Coupled withMexico’s divine mountain, beachand desert terrain, the country’sbest golf properties have beenrewarded with global recognitionand praise, including one inspiringrouting that has earned a slot onGolf Magazine’s prestigious World’sTop 100 Courses listing. Andbecause success often breeds suc-cess, efforts are underway to crafteven better golf experiencesthroughout the country.

To verify Mexico’s burgeoningriches, we’ve reviewed the country’s

top 10 layouts, all of which recentlywere selected and ranked by a blue-ribbon panel of international golfjournalists, travel executives andreal estate developers. Make thempart of your golf travel plans. Afterall, the Internet is but a virtualmeans to an enchanted ending.


become the best layout in Mexicoand 73rd on earth? (Golf Magazine,September 2005) Take a spectacularSea of Cortez location, build abreathtaking clubhouse with everyluxe bell and whistle, ensure thecustomer service is first rate by

including exceptional practice andteaching facilities, set aside enoughland where seven of the holes aresurfside, then hire the game’s great-est name, Jack Nicklaus, to choreo-graph it all.

You’ll never see the OceanCourse resting on its well-earnedlaurels. Jack and his design teamrecently renovated the 13-year-oldlayout, a 7,103-yard challenge thatcommands a 147 slope and 74.5 rat-ing from its back tees, modifying 11holes to improve the routing’s lus-ter and enhance its already goldenstature.

No wonder the property is whatevery golf course project in Mexicois measured against—past, present,

5

Left to right: #5 Isla Navidad and #6 El Camaleón Mayakoba.

#4 Four Seasons Punta Mita

6


Here’s a winter-inspired rumination:The Internet is one of the bettergolf-friendly gadgets to come downthe pike since Gene Sarazeninvented the sand wedge.


The Internet even transmits eat-your-heart-out temperature andweather forecasts. My computer, forinstance, is cued to several Mexicangolf destinations, heavenly placeslike Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta,Mazatlan, and Cancun. It couldinclude Maui or St. Andrews, butwhy bother? Flights to Central

America are inexpensive, frequent,and FAST, most taking about halfthe flying time needed to reach theHawaiian and British islands.

More importantly, the golf esmagnifico en Mexico, featuring aprized assortment of world-classproperties that meet and frequentlyexceed the high expectations ofeven the most erudite traveler.Quite simply, few places in the worldoffer the high quality and quantityof golf now available in Mexico.


But in the early 1980s, much ofMexico’s courses were a hodge-podge collection of muni-styledtracks with clubhouses and pro shopservices to match.What was lacking,quite frankly, was a commitment tobold, inspired architectural artistry,the kind commonly associated withthe singular talents of Tom Fazio,Jack Nicklaus, Robert von Hagge andArthur Hills.


Customer amenities have takena commensurate leap as well.

7

Vista Vallarta by Tom Weiskopf

8


Vista Vallarta by Jack Nicklaus


10

Forward thinking properties haveinstituted five-star services likepremium club rentals, showroom-fresh golf carts, fully stocked proshops, expansive practice areas,classy learning centers, snap-toattendants, knowledgeable caddies,and gracious clubhouses proffer-ing fine dining and chic lockerfacilities.

The result has been both mar-velous and expected: Coupled withMexico’s divine mountain, beachand desert terrain, the country’sbest golf properties have beenrewarded with global recognitionand praise, including one inspiringrouting that has earned a slot onGolf Magazine’s prestigious World’sTop 100 Courses listing. And

because success often breeds suc-cess, efforts are underway to crafteven better golf experiencesthroughout the country.

To verify Mexico’s burgeoningriches, we’ve reviewed the coun-try’s top 10 layouts, all of whichrecently were selected and rankedby a blue-ribbon panel of interna-tional golf journalists, travel execu-tives and real estate developers.Make them part of your golf travelplans. After all, the Internet is but avirtual means to an enchantedending.


become the best layout in Mexico

and 73rd on earth? (Golf Magazine,September 2005) Take a spectacu-lar Sea of Cortez location, build abreathtaking clubhouse with everyluxe bell and whistle, ensure thecustomer service is first rate byincluding exceptional practice andteaching facilities, set asideenough land where seven of theholes are surfside, then hire thegame’s greatest name, JackNicklaus, to choreograph it all.

You’ll never see the OceanCourse resting on its well-earned

Playa Mujeres by Greg Norman

Colorado-based Chris Duthie is an impas-sioned golf travel writer and photographerwho contributes regularly to Travel &Leisure Golf, Golf Connoisseur, LINKS, GolfLiving, Meetings & Conventions andColorado Avid Golfer magazines.

9

Cabo Real by Robert Trent Jones Jr.

THE LINKS AT LAS PALOMAS> A T R U E L I N K S C O U R S E <

olf, it is said, began among thedunes. On the remote shores ofScotland, where sandy lowlandmeets the sea, the traditions andchallenges of great links courseshave remained virtually unchangedfor over 600 years.

Introducing The Links at LasPalomas — a true links golf experi-ence on the dunes above the Sea ofCortez in Puerto Peñasco, Mexico.Its challenges and views awaitgolfers only a few hours south bycar from Phoenix, Arizona and 4 1/2hours from San Diego, California.

The Links at Las Palomas beganwith the passion of course archi-tects Forrest Richardson and ArthurJack Snyder. As designer ForrestRichardson explains, “we don’t layout the course so you can see it allat once…I sometimes hide a fewareas of the green. This creates atreasure hunt situation. All of thepar-3’s play to different lengths –and we’ve managed to face them in

different directions. Five holes playalong or across water. We have abonus 19th hole. Our extra hole sitsjust below the clubhouse and itlooks out at the Sea of Cortez. It’sabout 100-yards downhill to arolling green. We also designed the18th hole so you can play to analternate green. The course mightlook intimidating, but really playsquite fairly, because Jack Snyder, mymentor and co-designer of LasPalomas has always believed in cre-ating fair and friendly courses.Some of the holes and shots willappear easy, but the winds and ele-vations will play a solid role. [Byusing] Sea Dwarf Palpalum, a grassthat can withstand water and salt,the fairways are lush and beautiful,and the greens putt terrific. Mygoal is to have the player leave thecourse wanting to come back foranother round.”

The lure of any golf courseshould be how often the golfer

wants to return. A great coursemust be played time and time againto be conquered. The Links at LasPalomas draw every golfer into thischallenge, mystifying and reward-ing players of all skill levels witheach new round. The course can beattacked from the very back tees —at nearly 7,000-yards — or frommembers tee markers, club tees orforward tees. This special courseprovides members and guests a lay-out they will never tire of playing.

You are invited to share in thepassion. Come and experienceThe Links at Las Palomas.

G

Locations Puerto PeñascoContact In US & Canada:(602) 943-2000 x211directly: 011(52) 638-108-1072FAX: 011(52) 638-382-8306www.lplgc.com

Rio

Bavispe

Se

SONORA

Heroica

Nogales

Rosarito

Hermosillo



Mexican Riviera Directory

STATE TELEPHONE CITY HOLES PAR RATING CHAMP MEN WOMEN CARTS CADDIES WKDAYS WKEND

Baja Country Club “Ensenada” (P) (646) 177-5523 Ensenada 18 72 73.1 6834 6103 5203 Y N $47 $57KM 16 Carr. Transpeninsular (866) 599-0631 Enrique Valenzuela design.

Bajamar (R) ��14 (646) 155-0151 Ensenada 27 72 73.5 6968 5712 4696 Y N $69 $89KM 77.5 Ensenada Toll Road Robert von Hagge design. Mexico’s Pebble Beach.

Club Campestre de Mexicali (P) (686) 563-6170 Mexicali 18 72 72.0 6752 6524 6066 Y N $20 $20Carr. San Felipe, KM 2.5 (686) 563-6171

Real Del Mar Golf Club (R) (664) 631-3401 Rosarito 18 72 70.7 6460 6043 5534 Y Y $69 $89KM 19.5 Ensenada Toll Road Up and downhill terrain into three canyons, ocean views on 11 of 18 holes.

Las Caras de Mexico (R) ��30 (877) 787-2624 San Felipe 18 72 N/A 7202 6337 5772 Y N $70 $85KM 176.5 Federal #5 Bradford Benz design.

Tijuana Country Club (P) ��23 (664) 104-7500 Tijuana 18 72 72.9 6834 6616 5393 Y Y $51 $74Blvd. Agua Caliente 11311, Fracc. Aviacion Alister Mackenzie design. Challenging golf course near racetrack.

DIRECTORY KEY(R) = Resort Course (P) = Private Course (SP) = Semi-Private Course (D) = Daily Fee (L) = Low Season (H) = High Season ��1 = TOP 30 Resort Course ranking

AIRLINES

Aero California011 52 (322) 224-2800(800) 237-6225

Aeromexico01 (800) 021 4050(800) 237-6639www.aeromexico.com

Alaska Airlines(800) 252-7522www.alaskaair.com

American Airlines01 (800) 83 40300(800) 433-7300www.aa.com

America West(800) 235-9292www.americawest.com

Continental Airlines01 (800) 900-5000(800) 523-3273www.continental.com

Mexicana Airlines011 52 (322) 211-3624(800) 525-3273www.mexicana.com

ART FREELANCE

Carlos Farias011 52 (322) 225-8158Blvd. Francisco MedinaAscencio #2039Oficina 206, Edi. Cielito Lindo

ART GALLERY

Galerie des Artistes011 52 (322) 223-0006Leona Vicario 248 Centro

GOLF LESSONS

Swing Clinicas de Golf01 (3) 3616-2925Andres CastellanosJuan Alvarez 1771 Col.VillaSeñor Guadalajara, Jalisco

GOLF PACKAGES

Best4GolfMariana Recines(949) [email protected] www.best4mexicoteetimes.com

HOTELS/RESORTS

Barceló Karmina Palace011 52 (314) 334-1313(877) 527-6462Avenida Vista Hermosa #13Manzanillowww.karminapalace.com

Costa Careyes011 52 (315) 351-0320Km. 53.5 Carretera Barra de Navidadwww.careyes.com.mx

El Tamarindo Beach & Golf Resort011 52 (315) 351-5031Kilometro 7.5 Carretera Barra de Navidad www.yctamarindo.com

Isla Navidad011 52 (314) 331-0512Apartado Postal #20Barra De Navidadwww.islaresort.com.mx

Las Hadas(888) 559-4329Avenida Vista Hermosa y de losRiscos S/N Manzanillowww.brisas.com/mx

Paradise Village011 52 (322) 226-6113Avenida Paseo de los Cocoteros #1www.paradisevillage.com

Pueblo Bonito SambaVallarta011 52 322-226-8250Modulo "J" HORC-2www.pueblobonito.com

Casa Velas011 52 (322) 221-0800(866) 612-1097Pelicanos #311, Fracc.Marina Vallarta

REAL ESTATE

Applegate Realtors011 52 (322) 221-5434Km. 1.5 Carretera a Barra deNavidad Fracc. Conchas Chinas www.applegaterealtors.com

G3 Mex Group1-877-688-3874www.g3mex.com

Lemmus011-52-322-297-1614Calle Rio Neva #13www.lemmus.com

Prudential California Realty- Vallarta Division1-888-PRUDMEX 011-52-322-293-3984Blvd. Fco. Medina Ascencio Km.3.5 Zona Hotelerera

RESTAURANTS

Café des Artistes011 52 (322) 222-3228740 Guadalupe Sánchez Centro Puerto [email protected]

Tikul011 52 (322) 209-2010Malecón de Marina [email protected]

De Santos011-52-322-223-3052011-52-322-223-3053Morelos 771 Col. Centro Puerto Vallarta

La Palapa011 52 (322) 222-5225Pulpito 103 Playa de los [email protected]

Porto Bello011 52 (322) 221-0003Marina Sol Local 7

Vista Grill011 52 (322) 222-52251579 Jamaica, Puerto Vallarta

TOURISM OFFICES

Manzanillo Tourism Board011 52 (314) 333-1380011 52 (314) 333-3838Blvd. Miguel de la Madrid1294-Bwww.manzanillo.com.mx

Nayarit Tourism Board011-52-214-8071-7174Ave. Mexico y Ejercito Nacional s/nExconvento de la Cruz 63168

Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board011 52 (322) 224-1175(888) 384-6822Zona comercial Hotel Cantodel Sol Local 18www.puertovallarta.com.mx

BAJA CALIFORNIAGOLF COURSE DIRECTORY

��1 = TOP 30 Private Course ranking

Yucatan Village and Resort, Jaguar Course, Merida, Mexico

Cabo del Sol (Ocean Course), Los Cabos, Mexico

La Loma, San Luis Potosi, Mexico

Punta Mita Club de Golf, Pacifico Course, Punta Mita, Mexico

They Have a Name For Great Golf Courses.

www.nicklaus.com

N I C K L A U S D E S I G N 1 1 7 8 0 U . S . H I G H WAY O N E , S U I T E 5 0 0

N O R T H P A L M B E A C H , F L 3 3 4 0 8U S A

+ 1 5 6 1 - 2 2 7 - 0 3 0 0

N I C K L A U S D E S I G N L I S B O A 1 7 6 , C O L O N I A V E R S A L L E S

P U E R T O V A L L A R T A , J A L I S C O C . P . 4 8 3 1 0M E X I C O

+ 5 2 - 3 2 2 - 2 2 5 - 4 6 - 0 0

BEST'S Golf Guide to Baja ~ Sea of Cortez

Documents

Transcript of BEST'S Golf Guide to Baja ~ Sea of Cortez