Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Looking for a new place to live

On the weekend, my landlord called and I discovered that they are raising the rent in my apartment to almost double the original amount. Ironically, from May to October, most other people reduce their rent for the summer months. None of my friends and neighbors can believe it, but hey, not all things make sense in this world. Everyone thinks they are crazy to raise the rent, especially since I have been away from this apartment more than I have lived in it (with my school in La Manzanilla, house-sitting, my injury, trip to Canada, etc). At the end of the day, this is for the best as I have been looking for a larger place anyway that is more spacious for the dogs (and when I have guests visiting from Canada). This just gives me the push I need to find a new place pronto!

As a result, I have been busy looking for another place to live. I have a few leads and am going to see another house today which I am very excited about. It is MUCH bigger than the apartment I am in, has two bedrooms, a big yard and the best part is that it is cheaper than the rent I am paying now! It is currently being rented by a man that I had a job interview with a month ago who is leaving for Australia soon. I am keeping my fingers crossed!

7 comments:

Calypso said...

Bummer about the apartment fee - in the interest of science - would you be willing to share the fees before and after?

My life is an open book - drives my wife crazy - so if this is too personal - forget I asked.

Chrissy y Keith said...

I hope everything goes willwith the bigger place. the doggies will be happier.

New Beginnings said...

Chrissy - Thanks! Yes, the dogs will love having a larger space, especially after living at my friend's big house while I was recuperating.

Calypso - no worries. My rent was3500 pesos for a very small one bedroom, fully furnished apartment and included all utilities, AC, maid service, internet, phone and cleaning of towels/linens. This morning I saw another fully furnished apartment just 2 blocks from the beach that is also 3500 pesos but is 2-3 times the size of my current apt, has a huge fenced yard and includes utilities, AC, wireless internet, cable TV, free drinking water and ice. On a side note, there are many 2 -3 bedroom good size houses for rent (unfurnished) from 2500 pesos and up, depending on the neighborhood

Canexicana said...

If you can't find something right away, and need to stay on while you look, you should know that the law prohibits that kind of a rent increase. You don't have to pay it and you don't have to move. There is a small increase percentage permitted each year and it ties to the cost of living increase. It's never over 10%. The law is on your side here. They are definitely trying to "gringo" you. Tell her you require an official receipt with her "RFC number" on it for your next month's (and future months) rent payment. Many landlords don't pay the required taxes on rental income, so are reluctant to give receipts. Letting her know that you are aware of the laws should straighten things out until you are ready to move on your own time. Good luck and stand firm.

New Beginnings said...

Canexicana - thanks SO much for the information and advice. It is very much appreciated. I have also heard this from a local friend of mine. Very interesting........

Steve Cotton said...

New Beginnings -- Keep us posted.

Anonymous said...

I thank you for the rental prices in your area.
I am thinking about going to mexico in nov.2009 if i can raise the nessecary fundage, and manzanillo
seems to be calling me. ;-)

Thanks again.