HUATULCO, MEXICO – Acapulco is perhaps the most famous Mexican resort along the Pacific coast. Just slightly east, however, the Bahias de Huatulco (wah-TOOL-ko) – Bays of Huatulco – seem to have slipped under the radar screen for many years. Along a 22-mile stretch of coastline sit nine bays – only three of which have been developed. Tangolunda Bay will soon be home to Encanto Villas & Residence Club – a private residence club with spectacular beachfront views of the Pacific Ocean.
Cincinnati developer Jeff Anderson of Jeffrey R. Anderson Real Estate, Inc. says what attracted him to this area was the local interest in preserving the environment. “Besides the obvious beauty and charm of Huatulco, I was impressed that it is the only resort community in Mexico to obtain Green Globe 21 certification,” Anderson explains. In fact, 70 percent of Huatulco’s land has been set aside as a protected ecological zone, and there’s even a “national park marine zone” along the coast, where sea life is abundant. “It only takes a short time to get to know the locals because of their openness and gracious hospitality,” Anderson adds. “The people of Huatulco are dedicated to preserving their environment, history and culture, while also welcoming tourists to discover their rich natural resources and contribute to the economy.“
With the most extensive coral reef system in Pacific Mexico, Huatulco’s beaches offer snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, boating, or good old-fashioned relaxation. The nearby Sierra Madre Mountains lure adventurers with whitewater rafting, kayaking, and waterfall-laden jungle tours. Now families can own an exclusive slice of this paradise without the hassle and risk associated with the purchase and upkeep of traditional second homes. Pricing begins at $150,000 for a one-tenth deeded interest in a spacious, fully furnished three-bedroom residence. Three-bedroom penthouses start at $190,000. Amenities include a private beach club, multiple pools, a fine dining restaurant, boat dock, fitness center and spa, and a club concierge.
“We decided a private residence club made the most sense for this unique piece of land along Tangolunda Bay,” Jeff Anderson says. “This is the last oceanfront property on the bay to be constructed, and we’re only developing the minimum amount necessary to create an intimate resort experience. Residence club owners purchase a fraction of a home, and they typically visit often. While we’re keeping the overall density low, owners will keep the tourism dollar flowing to help sustain Huatulco’s economy.”
Anderson has also decided to donate up to $1 million in net profits to Waterkeeper® Alliance. The non-profit, chaired by Bobby Kennedy, Jr., is dedicated to preserving and protecting waterways around the world. Donations from Encanto Villas & Residence Club will be directed toward supporting global water quality protection and the five Waterkeeper programs located throughout Mexico.
The residence club concept is growing in popularity as Americans discover the flexible and carefree lifestyle this type of vacation home offers. Industry consulting firm Ragatz Associates reports that luxury, shared ownership sales volume in 2007 was $2.3 billion, representing an 8.3 percent growth over 2006.
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Anderson Real Estate has teamed with DCP International, which pioneered the Equity Residence ClubSM concept in 1992 with the Deer Valley Club at Utah’s prestigious Deer Valley Resort.
DCP Principal Steve Dering says, “Residence clubs are a sensible way to own in any market, but especially now. Members own deeded real estate in a prime location and prices reflect today’s economy. Not only is the purchase price commensurate with the amount of use, but the insurance, taxes, utilities, maintenance, replacement reserves and staff expenses are shared amongst owners. The club is operated for the benefit and exclusive use of its owners, similar to an equity golf country club.”
Encanto Villas & Residence Club is expected to open in winter of 2009. Currently, visitors can fly direct to Huatulco from Houston and Mexico City. Direct flights from Monterrey, Mexico are starting soon.
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Encanto Villas & Residence Club Amenities and Services:
-24 beautifully furnished three-bedroom residences & penthouses (Phase I)
-On-site concierge service
-Private beach club
-Fitness center and spa
-Multiple pools
-Fine dining restaurant
-Private boat dock
-Pre-arrival grocery shopping service
-Secured, air conditioned clothing and equipment storage
-Daily housekeeping services and professional property management
Huatulco Area Activities:
-Whitewater rafting the River Capolita
-Sea kayaking
-Scuba diving/snorkeling
-Surfing
-Jungle tours
-Chartered fishing tours
-Horseback riding
-Low-key nightlife
