A Solid Community Makes a Great Place to Live
As I sit in the absolute silence of our lovely pueblo of Bucerias—which was largely vacated of visitors by mid-March—I think about the fact we remain a substantial mix of nationals and full-time ex-pat homeowners. The abrupt exodus in mid-season has made it more evident that the number of full-time expats is growing with every year. I’m happy to report that there is also a significant number of part-time ex pats that opted to shelter in place in our tropical seaside environment rather than scurry north to grimmer climates and statistics. I like that they felt safe, secure and comfortable at a time of tension and uncertainty rather than having a flight reaction.
Looking over the neighbourhood from comfy terrace, I admire something that those whose stays were cut short are missing this year—the large trees that might have fooled one into thinking they had nothing more to offer than leaves, have literally exploded into flame red, pastel pink and daffodil yellow. I reflect on the many conversations I’ve had over the last several weeks as I’ve been checking in on friends, family and customers—both current owners and the buyers who’ve been working toward owning here one day.
Everyone wants to know how we are and what measures we have in place. I confidently report that Bucerias and the entire Banderas Bay area adopted safe distancing measures almost immediately. Even though the first cases in Mexico were not to be detected for a full month later than in Canada, for instance, our town was pro-active and sensitive to the risks due to our close ties with our northern friends and seeing their actions. The health and defense ministries quickly implemented a national plan. The governors of Nayarit and Jalisco strictly imposed isolation early and have phased in extensions. That beaches were closed in solidarity all along the Riviera Nayarit and Costa Vallarta. Easter vacation did not take place. Thus the silence of Bucerias and beaches that remind me of 20-plus years ago.
Some of the threads of my conversations that ring out are:
Those who know and love Bucerias are anxious to get back as soon as travel restrictions are amenable. Those who are waiting for new condos to finish construction are happy to have made their investment and fulfill their dream of tropical living in this town. They will be new contributors to our economy too, obtaining furniture and decoration and consumers of many services. Those who’ve been on the path to ownership are perhaps even more committed to reaching that goal.
And, to share with everyone that it’s been a heartening experience to witness a community of solidarity, generosity and consolidation. There are many support groups in action for those who’ve lost income and many, many people are participating with hands-on labour and/or donations. We are also very supportive of any businesses that have been able to maintain a level of operation. The creativity, especially with food services to provide home delivery and to-go has been impressive. Even a new What’s App group was spawned dedicated to any company with any kind of product that would deliver. Within a week it grew to 125 participants.
In the real estate industry, we are accustomed to doing marketing and promotion “virtually” and are using this time to step up our technology and methods another notch. We are all working hard to keep our customers informed and let them know that the place they’ve embraced is safe, secure and has a great community spirit—something that will not only add to their experience but their value.
As one freshly-painted sign on a nearby wall says: El sol siempre vuelva a brillar y nos volveremos a abrazarnos = The sun will always shine again and we will embrace again.
Victoria Pratt is a certified AMPI agent and North Shore manager with Timothy Real Estate Group. She contributes regularly with insight on real estate-related matters and “nice-to-know” topics for both residents and visitors alike. Contact her for information at: victoria@timothyrealestategroup.com
Copyright: Victoria Pratt 2020
