Merida Mexico A Renovators Paradise

Merida’s first renovator came to the area in 1542. Spanish conquistador Francisco de Montejo built the city after tearing down existing Mayan ruins. Today renovators mostly relocate from the U.S. although you’ll find people from every region of the world in Merida. Many are full time residents, others reside in the city part time. Despite their differences, relocatees to Merida all seem to be drawn to the charm and stability of the city along with the housing selections, low real estate costs and friendly people.

The “gringos” as these renovators refer to themselves, are a diverse group with one goal in mind, renovating one of Merida’s homes. These renovators are dazzled by the selection of housing styles the city offers and many feel like a kid in a candy store. You can easily find an Art Deco gem or a 1950’s mid century modern, vast haciendas on the outskirts of town and don’t forget the abundance of historical homes in the El Cento district. Merida’s homes range in price but can start under $100,000 with low property taxes; a dream for many Americans.

Although Merida has always enjoyed economic stability, the influx of renovators has brought a boom to many local contractors and crafts people. These tradespeople are finding well paid jobs close to home and local families are prospering from readily available work. These gringos are bringing not only new jobs to the area but an infusion of new money and the local business people welcome the additional business.

Renovations in Merida vary in cost depending on upgrades but in traditional American style they are usually elaborate and top of the line, often taking years to complete. The result however is a stunning home at a fraction of the cost in the U.S. With the large number of renovations completed along with the number of homes still available and waiting, the real estate market in Merida is healthy and gaining steadily in equity as gringos with “renovators fever” flock to Merida, Mexico.