FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

IS THE WATER SAFE TO DRINK?

Drinking water in Puerto Peñasco comes from one of the local water purification companies, and is safe to drink. Bottled water may be provided by your hotel, and can be purchased at local convenience stores, and the small grocery store at the Ejido Alvaro Obregon. The water at Las Dunas comes directly from on-site wells and is good for washing and cooking but is not recommended for drinking. Water from a similar aquifer supplies several ranches and the Ejido located east of Santo Tomás. Water in Mexico is not necessarily bad, just different.

 
DO I NEED TO CONVERT MY MONEY TO MEXICAN MONEY?
No. U.S. currency is readily accepted in the Free Trade Zone in Mexico. The exchange rate will vary slightly from shop to shop, but not enough to be overly concerned. Use your credit card as often as you can to get a better exchange rate. If you want Mexican money while in Puerto Penasco you can use the ATM’s, you will also get a favorable rate.
 
WHAT ABOUT SECURITY?
Full time security patrol is maintained at Las Dunas to protect private property and limit access to owners and their guests. A Police station is located about 25 miles away at I Griega.
 
WHERE DOES THE ELECTRICITY COME FROM AND HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The electricity used at Santo Tomas is generated by the Mexican Federal Electric Commission. The cost per kilowatt hour is about $0.17, approximately 50% more than the Phoenix area; however, overall usage is not as great due to the temperate climate. The cost for our 2200 sq. ft. rental is about $40 per month. The kitchen stove and water heater use propane gas.
 
ARE THERE PHYSICIANS & MEDICAL FACILITIES?
There are many qualified physicians and hospitals in Puerto Peñasco. You can visit the Puerto Peñasco website or look in a copy of the Puerto Peñasco Services Directory or the Rocky Point Times. Medical assistance is also available at the Alvaro Obregon Ejido through the Security Guard. There are Doctor’s and a Dentist at I Griega.
 
WHERE DO I BUY GASOLINE AND IS IT GOOD QUALITY?
The oil industry, the second largest industry in Mexico (tourism is first) is owned and operated by the government. Several PEMEX retail gasoline outlets are located in Sonoyta and Puerto Peñasco. The quality is good, similar to gasoline offered in the U.S. but is more expensive. There are two locations at the Ejido where you can purchase gasoline.
 
WHERE CAN I SHOP FOR GROCERIES?
There are numerous grocery stores in Puerto Peñasco and Caborca. You will find a small store located about 13 miles from Santo Tomás, and three small stores at the Ejido that have all the basic items.
 
CAN I GET MY PRESCRIPTION REFILLED IN MEXICO?
Usually, Yes. There are numerous farmacias in Puerto Peñasco. Prescriptions may be required to purchase some medications in Mexico. However, the drugs may be regulated by U.S. Customs for entry into the United States. Some controlled drugs must have a prescription written in Mexico.
 
IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL IN MEXICO?
Use caution when driving on strange roads to avoid potholes, animals on the road, slow drivers and other distractions. There are most likely parts of your own home town you don’t feel safe in. So use the same good judgement when traveling in Mexico that you would at home. Many of the stories come from people who get their information second hand and who usually don’t understand what may have really happened. Remember, Mexico is a foreign country. The culture, customs, language, and laws are different from the U.S. When in Mexico remember you are a guest, and as long as you act like one, you will be treated like one.
 
ARE THERE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION FEES AT LAS DUNAS?
Association fees are currently $30 per month for undeveloped lots and $40 per month for developed lots. This fee covers 24 hour security, water usage, trash collection, road maintenance, and beach cleanup.
 
HOW MUCH ARE THE PROPERTY TAXES AT LAS DUNAS?
Property taxes are based on lot area and assessed value. Currently taxes are very low, no more than $100 per year due to the lag of assessed value to market value. In the future property taxes could be $400 per year for beachfront property.
 
WHAT IS THE COST OF CONSTRUCTION PER SQUARE FOOT?

Because each house at Las Dunas is constructed for the owners needs, cost per square foot can vary depending on materials, design, non-liveable areas and options. Costs have ranged from $100 to near $140 per square foot.
 
WHAT ARE THE COSTS FOR THE BANKTRUST OR MEXICAN CORPORATION?
A Banktrust can cost $4500 or more with annual maintenance fees from $350 to $1000. A Mexican corporation can be established for approximately $3000 with an annual maintenance fee of about $300.
 
WHAT ARE THE CLOSING COSTS?
Closing costs are approximately $2500.
 
IS FINANCING AVAILABLE?
Lot financing is available on selected lots; however, construction financing is not available at this time.