Alexander Howell

Alexander Howell

Send me a text @ (816) 727-7740

My name is Alexander Howell, and love posting videos on KZread about Travel, Real Estate, and Finance.

VP of Business Development, TTF Digital
Managing Partner, Howell Real Estate.
Realtor° with Local Agent, LLC (MO).

Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri. Husband & Father.

You Need to Travel!

You Need to Travel!

Merida, Mexico in 2023

Merida, Mexico in 2023

Don't Be Afraid of Mexico

Don't Be Afraid of Mexico

Merida, Mexico Home Tour

Merida, Mexico Home Tour

Пікірлер

  • @Craptastic70
    @Craptastic70Күн бұрын

    Or Just dont try to work around a law that prohibits you from owning mexico land with your ficticious and made out of thin air money.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC17 сағат бұрын

    I always love ignorant comments like this, they've become very fun to respond to! First, as stated in the video this isn't a "work around", but rather an actual law passed by Mexico in 1973. You could have just Googled this, it's very easy. Also the "fictious and made out of thin air money" does not exist, I assure you that the money we invested was very, very real. Which is kind of the reason Mexico passed this law, they realized that their constitution was hurting foreign investment so they decided to (in a sense) amend it to allow for significant foreign investment which now helps their economy. I really hope you have a wonderful day, but based on your name and attitude, my guess is you get mad that the sky is blue.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKCКүн бұрын

    Some people are a bit scared of utilizing a Fideicomiso, but it's really not that bad - I have one. Something I forgot to put in this video was that they last 50 years, and are renewable!

  • @jeanthonydelaconte8843
    @jeanthonydelaconte8843Күн бұрын

    Do you have to pay a fee for the fideicomiso?

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKCКүн бұрын

    @@jeanthonydelaconte8843 Yes. There is a setup fee and then a yearly fee.

  • @jeanthonydelaconte8843
    @jeanthonydelaconte8843Күн бұрын

    Thanks for sharing.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 күн бұрын

    Sooner rather than later!

  • @zanegood855
    @zanegood8554 күн бұрын

    Beautiful! How much are you currently renting the property for?

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 күн бұрын

    It depends on how long someone stays, and it's changed a bit since the beginning. I'll add the AirBNB link below, and you can check it out! www.airbnb.com/rooms/736834075163160380?check_in=2024-08-16&check_out=2024-08-21&guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=07e06f9e-323b-42e5-a865-15c8213e2dd6

  • @danieldelacruz7305
    @danieldelacruz73059 күн бұрын

    What’s the name of the boutique hotel and what did you pay for it?

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC9 күн бұрын

    It’s called Antelar Casa Destino, and I can’t remember what we paid for it. Right now it’s showing from ~$3,100 Pesos to almost ~$5,000 Pesos a night for a suite, which is what we were in.

  • @giljusino
    @giljusino10 күн бұрын

    Prices are going up everywhere. I moved to Asheville in 2017. I’ve watched housing values have doubled during my time here. I’m heading to Merida in the next 12-months.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC8 күн бұрын

    I 100% agree. My reasoning is that I think people looked at Merida as a less expensive place relative to others, but because of its increase in infrastructure spending, cruise routes, and just overall popularity it's going up past that idea now. Good luck in heading to Merida!!

  • @mediascapes2011
    @mediascapes201110 күн бұрын

    whats the costs MXN per m2?

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC8 күн бұрын

    I appreciate the question, I just don't know how to answer. We're in to our home with literally everything between $600k-$650k, but we went all out in every way. Two kitchens, AC everywhere, oversized pool, and many other things. Meaning our price per square meter was much higher than it needed to be, but it'd also be higher now because prices have gone up significantly since our property was finished.

  • @mediascapes2011
    @mediascapes20118 күн бұрын

    @@AlexanderFromKC ok, do I understand right, 650k US$ and including the initial purchase of the house?

  • @brauliaacevees
    @brauliaacevees11 күн бұрын

    Love it, looking forward to having my own place there

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC10 күн бұрын

    I'm looking forward to you making that happen!

  • @timthurmeier1779
    @timthurmeier177911 күн бұрын

    Welcome back to Eden! How you folks doing?

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC10 күн бұрын

    We're ok. Settling into the place with a bunch of people coming down in the next few days, but I wouldn't want to be anywhere else!

  • @timthurmeier1779
    @timthurmeier177910 күн бұрын

    @@AlexanderFromKC how long you down for? We should get together sometime!

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC11 күн бұрын

    Back in Merida!!!

  • @turowat
    @turowat13 күн бұрын

    Beautiful home, felicidades.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC13 күн бұрын

    Thank you so much!

  • @tjcasado
    @tjcasado15 күн бұрын

    We loved it there just wish it was not so windy all the time.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC14 күн бұрын

    That’s fair, although it is nice when is 100 outside to have that breeze.

  • @e6ensperception
    @e6ensperception19 күн бұрын

    Tips on getting solar batteries in mexico? 500-600ah (~24kwh) of Li- Iron Phosphate batteries in particular??

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC19 күн бұрын

    Unfortunately, no. Our builder installed everything at our request, but I've heard really good things through the years about Bulldog Solar ( bulldogsolar.com/ ). I'd reach out to them if I were doing it on my own.

  • @e6ensperception
    @e6ensperception19 күн бұрын

    @@AlexanderFromKC i appreciate the lead, thanks for the video and time you out into helping people out on KZread

  • @lovemydog440
    @lovemydog44022 күн бұрын

    Question since its so hot there wouldnt it be more efficient to have lower ceilings?

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC19 күн бұрын

    It's kind of the opposite, actually. Taller ceilings give the hot air a larger space to travel to, and then with the proper airway setup (and air conditioning as well) you allow the hot air to escape. That way it's a constant cycle of it rising and then being removed.

  • @JMANE187
    @JMANE18728 күн бұрын

    I wonder how much it cost to build that house it looks luxury but also Mexico is cheap too so I’m curious

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC19 күн бұрын

    Not as cheap as it's been in the past, but we built just before the sever rise in costs in Mexico, as well as the rest of the world. You're right about our house being luxury, and in fact with two kitchens, several separate areas, and a myriad of customs options, we're all in around $650k. That's a lot of money, but if I tried to build it in the States, even KC where I live, it would have been out of our price range from the start. I'm not sure what it would cost to build today, but more.

  • @aixamichaellaney1953
    @aixamichaellaney1953Ай бұрын

    We have been watching you videos for some time. In fact we purchased a home on Calle 47 80 y 82 located between Santiago and Santa Anna. We don’t air-bnb our home but us a management company recommended by our good friend, the come weekly and do light house cleaning, landscaping, and cleaning the pool. Comes to 650 mid per week. We have thought about air bnb but not sure how to get started. It is nice however to come home, in Mexico, and know no one has been there.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKCАй бұрын

    That's awesome, and what a great area you've found yourself in! There is a part of me that's excited for the day when we're in your situation because as much as the income can be beneficial - it is nice to know that it's your home and no one else's. Thank you so much for watching, it's very much appreciated!

  • @photographyalamexicana
    @photographyalamexicanaАй бұрын

    Living in Mérida, Mexico, is a delightful experience characterized by its rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and friendly community. The city's colonial charm is evident in its well-preserved architecture and picturesque streets, while its modern amenities ensure a comfortable lifestyle. Mérida offers a unique blend of traditional Yucatecan cuisine and contemporary dining options, making it a food lover's paradise. The warm, tropical climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, and its proximity to stunning beaches and Mayan ruins provides endless opportunities for exploration. Moreover, Mérida's low crime rate and affordable cost of living make it an attractive destination for both locals and expatriates seeking a high quality of life. Great video, Alexander Howell!

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKCАй бұрын

    Very well stated, and thank you so much!

  • @0GSoon
    @0GSoonАй бұрын

    Five minute talking and learning nothing😂

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKCАй бұрын

    Thanks for the comment.

  • @notenoughcoffeeintheworld8180
    @notenoughcoffeeintheworld8180Ай бұрын

    If any one is looking to buy property in merida let me know, my name is Karen and i now live here in Merida, moved 3 years ago from PA, and looking for an investment property for my family i decided to get certified so not to get taken advantage of, so i can totally help you out and even take you around if you decide to visit to check the options out live ;)

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKCАй бұрын

    As long as you're doing good work, I wish your business all the best!

  • @gerardovillarreal4640
    @gerardovillarreal4640Ай бұрын

    Thank you for telling the truth. Viva Mexico!

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKCАй бұрын

    Absolutely, but for me it's Viva Mexico, y via la Estados Unidos. I love each country, but the issues are way overblown.

  • @alanakemp7664
    @alanakemp7664Ай бұрын

    Not really but i wouldnt mind owning some forrest acres in south america

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKCАй бұрын

    That's fair.

  • @edjort
    @edjortАй бұрын

    I think like Florida... we need an infrastructure that will connect people , have a nice trip etc

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKCАй бұрын

    I like that thought process, and we did!

  • @ronnie_5150
    @ronnie_5150Ай бұрын

    I live in Vancouver Canada. A 680sq ft. 1 bedroom condo is $750,000. I shopped new 2 bedroom 3 bathroom 1700 sq.ft places in Merida for $260,000 Canadian. What's cheaper in Merida than Vancouver? EVERYTHING. I'm retiring to Merida in 6 years.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKCАй бұрын

    This is my biggest point, so thank you for stating it with personal experience! Everything is more expensive right now, and there is definitely a conversation to be had about foreigners (like us) making things a little bit more expensive... that's not the biggest issue though. We were lucky to build when we did, but to build our house in Merida, even in Kansas City, would be crazy. My biggest piece of advice? Buy right, research where you shop, and buy solar panels. If you do those things you'll do great. Thanks again for the comment, well put!

  • @ronnie_5150
    @ronnie_5150Ай бұрын

    @@AlexanderFromKC And thank you! Loved the video. Subscribed.

  • @CCCC-tq8yo
    @CCCC-tq8yoАй бұрын

    I'm here now

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKCАй бұрын

    Very nice!!

  • @ruaballer931
    @ruaballer931Ай бұрын

    Hi, nice video. Where did you get the statistic of 2nd safest city in the North America?

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKCАй бұрын

    See this article ( www.theyucatantimes.com/2019/09/merida-is-number-21-in-the-worlds-safest-cities-ranking-2019/ ), but it's CEO World Magazine that ranked it this way. I've seen several people push back on this, but I can tell you from my own experience in traveling that I agree with it. We've traveled all over the world, my wife even more so than myself, and I've never felt uncomfortable in Merida. Not saying that it couldn't happen, but my experience has been incredible.

  • @DestinationRetirement
    @DestinationRetirement11 күн бұрын

    It is actually deemed 2nd safest in the Americas, not just North America. (Second to Quebec).

  • @acajudi100
    @acajudi1002 ай бұрын

    Hotter than hell. stay out. HAPPY i do not have to beg on here for food, drinks, rent or vacations. IT is just greedy to beg, when you are house sitting . wtf Leave these thugs alone or die. I love your videos. God bless you always, and the world. Hola from Queretaro. Over 62 years visiting Mexico, all 0ver the world and all 50 USA states. Keep frozen water bottles for body, bed. pets in and out. Wear a wide brim hat, and loose clothing. See how the Arabs are dressed in the desert. MOVE! YOU are not trees. Carry frozen water bottles for body, bed, chair, car, animals etc. REAL TRUTH. Move to Mexico. Criminals are worldwide. Be alert. Hola from Queretaro. There are African Mexicans. Africans are all over the world. Africa is the mother of ALL civilizations. I was born in Chicago in 1942 Southside, and happy I obeyed my parents. I live in Queretaro now since 2021. I wish you the best, and stay away from drugs, drinks and lust. Be honest. Do not marry, shack, or have babies. Live alone is safer. Hola from Queretaro. I have been speaking Spanish since age 14. Merida was too hot. I never wanted a house in Acapulco, but I rented a home, had a timeshare, rented rooms and apartments. I am a USA Muslim. I am in my 82nd year living in Queretaro since 2021. I was 20 in 1962, when I came alone from Chicago on a 2 weeks vacation to Mexico, from the border down to Acapulco. You are never alone, when nice families are around, and beware of the evil and scammers around. Earthquakes were the deal breakers for not retiring to Acapulco. I always worked, and never asked anyone for anything. I am a giver to nice and honest none beggars, and my 411 is FREE. USA got too dangerous, so I left at 79, for I would have eliminated the John Gacy look alike trying to get into my heavily blocked apartment with a key at all hours of the day and night. I was being poisoned for life insurance, but God warned me, and he took care of the evil demon. God protects me, but I do protect myself also by any means necessary. I have had to protect myself from evil demons, no matter where I live. I pity the fool, who tries to eliminate me. I have traveled all 50 USA states and the world on my own dime from WORKING A JOB, that paid every 2 weeks, overtime, and paid vacations up to 6 weeks. Never needed a go fund to travel. I speak Spanish and other languages since age 14 as a second language. I survived the USA for 79 years and earned all my income there. A nice pension and small savings support me and allows me to help non beggars. I can smell scammers and dishonesty a block away, and then I block their behinds. RENT is all i pay, because it includes everything, maid and security. Since 2021 it has been $672 per month to a present $916 per month. I order stock up groceries etc once a month or two at about $400 or less and delivered to my home in Queretaro. Gifts excluded, since it depends on you, and I prefer to keep that private, but I only am generous to none and honest beggars, who are not scammers or dangerous. I block evil criminals worldwide. CLICK, I am not rich or stupid.

  • @NoraGomez-nf3jz
    @NoraGomez-nf3jz2 ай бұрын

    Your home is beautiful! I look forward to retiring in Merida.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, and me too!!

  • @CharruaRegio
    @CharruaRegio2 ай бұрын

    What if I'm a Foreigner and get a permanent residency? Can I legally avoid fideicomiso

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Please ask an attorney, but it is my understanding that permanent residents can avoid a fideicomiso. That being said, by my understanding that is kind of putting the cart before the horse, as you need a residence to shown residency.

  • @yamz4life770
    @yamz4life7702 ай бұрын

    These videos are kind of ridiculous. Americans/Canadians move down there in droves and are whinning about how expensive it's gotten?! These jokes write themselves😂😂

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    And yet here you are?

  • @yamz4life770
    @yamz4life7702 ай бұрын

    @@AlexanderFromKC I'm a content resident, and I like to watch content from others in the area, but it is silly to complain about a problem that one is also contributing to.

  • @AR.432.
    @AR.432.2 ай бұрын

    Montejo, not mantejo

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    👌

  • @Toneeeeee23
    @Toneeeeee232 ай бұрын

    Thanks for the video , found it very helpful and exactly the information I was looking for.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Glad it was helpful!

  • @user-ej3fp9xp7y
    @user-ej3fp9xp7y2 ай бұрын

    I love your channel. I’m sorry to hear about your recent health issues but glad there appears to be some progress in figure them out. My wife has been experiencing some of the same symptoms for about 7 weeks. She’s been to the E.R 3 times, her doctor once, cardiologist and every test comes back fine but she still has many symptoms. Do you have any suggestions or recommendations that might help her? Thank you in advance

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    I'm so happy you're enjoying the channel, but I'm so sorry your wife is going through it. Unfortunately, I've been trying to figure it out for a year and a half and am still looking for the cause. I will say that a lot of people with similar symptoms have success with a cervical epidural, which is a routine procedure. That being said it didn't really do much for me. Good luck with everything, I'll be thinking about you all.

  • @idaniamorales6058
    @idaniamorales60582 ай бұрын

    We are going to move to Merida soon

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Fantastic!

  • @r-bv8hx
    @r-bv8hx2 ай бұрын

    look into a devicce called Neuro MD.. Only thing that helped my back and sciatica.. Great videos hope to see you in Merida one day

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much - that looks like a awesome product. Hopefully we'll see you soon!

  • @andreamireles5972
    @andreamireles59722 ай бұрын

    Hi! Do you have information of how notary’s works in Mexico? I heard they are very different than here in US. Thank you!

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    I would absolutely ask more people than just me, but from my experience notaries in Mexico are more than just legal documents "verifiers" like they are in the USA. Our notaria, which was Notaria 11, was more like a title company combined with a real estate lawyer on board. They were the ones that handled closing, the handling of monies to all parties, our power of attorney, and closing - all combined into one office. They're basically the entire middle-man in the buying and selling of property.

  • @mattz9440
    @mattz94402 ай бұрын

    Im a New sub. Get well soon! Great content.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Thank you very much. It's day-by-day, but getting better. Thanks for subbing and welcome!

  • @mattz9440
    @mattz94402 ай бұрын

    Great info!!

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Glad you think so!

  • @mattz9440
    @mattz94402 ай бұрын

    Just found your channel. Wow. Amazing house.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Thank you very much. We absolutely love it.

  • @mattz9440
    @mattz94402 ай бұрын

    Amazing house. Love the extra terraces and the master as well. Amazing.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much!

  • @lindalaris1
    @lindalaris12 ай бұрын

    How do I get started? I’m interested in buying in Rosarito, Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    The best way that I can recommend to get started is to find forums and groups on websites like Facebook, and read everything you can about the area you're looking to buy. Some can be toxic, but listening to what others have to say is vital when determining your location. That may also help you find your real estate agent, architect, and other trusted resources that you're going to need. Although we started quickly, we read hundreds of posts before we found our agents, but that relationship lead us to our architect and so on... Be patient, read a lot, and you'll have a great journey. Good luck!

  • @nancetaylor9020
    @nancetaylor90202 ай бұрын

    We would like to buy a home and rent as an Airbnb. What features do you feel are important to make the property mort desirable and rentable? Tia

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Air conditioning in every bedroom and every "hang out" space" are very important. The number one thing you have to have is a pool though, and I would tell you that making it just a little bigger than the average one is good for all parties. Other things would be a nice kitchen, (personal suggestion) a bathroom in every bedroom, and convenience appliances like a washer/dryer are huge for looking at longer term rentals.

  • @meatgravylard
    @meatgravylard2 ай бұрын

    From my experience here, starting well before Airbnb the number one for the renter is location, Santiago is the most well known neighborhood and has been since the area formerly called "Gringo Gulch" was all that was really known. If not there, close.. For the owner an easy to maintain house built to very high standards will produce the most return with the fewest headaches. A one bedroom house, not necessarily small, just with fewer rooms with 85-90% occupancy at $125 US per night will be more profitable and easier/less expensive to manage than the multi roomed higher cost alternatives. Also an open design with fewer rooms will allow for hosting events with multiple people paying to visit but not sleep, similar to Airbnb Experiences if desired... Oh, I would add that a large kitchen is a huge bonus...even if the renters never walk to the market and shop for ingredients, the thought of doing it is a hook..

  • @concernedcitizen3649
    @concernedcitizen36492 ай бұрын

    "That's where we are going to end this video"...continues talking for 3 more minutes. Get well soon! :D

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Yeah, I'm not exactly known for keeping to that script 😂

  • @kellymcnally9692
    @kellymcnally96922 ай бұрын

    Well done Alex! Thank you

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Thank you too!

  • @p.c.h.6721
    @p.c.h.67213 ай бұрын

    Sadly, the heat of Merida makes it a no-go city for a lot of people.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    You're absolutely right. Luckily, I'm happy with the heat!

  • @Alonzo-kt8kf
    @Alonzo-kt8kf3 ай бұрын

    I never been to merida but i seen so many videos of it i feel like i belong there😅 i also noticed the new transportation it look very nice😊

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    It's going to be pretty amazing, and it's definitely a city to put on your travel calendar!

  • @nicolebroussard872
    @nicolebroussard8723 ай бұрын

    You too, bro! I've followed you from the start. I hope you thrive! I'm in San Miguel de Allende. And I'm thinking about Merida. If you'd like to experience a different Mexican experience. I love it here. And I'd offer you a place.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, it's been a fun journey! We're definitely planning on checking other places out in the coming year, and San Miguel de Allende is near the top of our list. The only place ahead is Campeche, and that's mainly due to the fact that we could make that a weekend trip while we're in Merida. Thank you!

  • @dspumoni
    @dspumoni3 ай бұрын

    Isn't it getting better and better?!? Glad you enjoyed your visit. Your place and ours are in a great location (cerca C. 47 y Parque La Plancha)...we LOVE our location. please let me know when you're back, I'm sad we didn't get together!

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    I replied and then it went away lol. I didn't make any plans mainly because I didn't know how I was going to feel day to day, but I'll definitely be reaching out when we're down in the summer. We're excited to be down there again. One week didn't feel like enough!

  • @dspumoni
    @dspumoni2 ай бұрын

    Looking forward to your return, let me know, I'd like to hang out again and maybe have you come to one of my gigs (it would be a nice night out for your and your wife)!

  • @boilingfrogs9993
    @boilingfrogs99933 ай бұрын

    I am looking forward to visiting Merida and most of the Yucatan Peninsula. I hope to retire in Mexico and Merida ticks the boxes. It would be awesome if you share opinion about Tren Maya. ....forgive me. I commented prior to watching until the end. All of the best to your health and well being!

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC2 ай бұрын

    No worries at all and thank you! I've actually had a few videos talking about Tren Maya, and they're all on my channel. I'm sure I'll talk about it more though!

  • @1100Adrian
    @1100Adrian3 ай бұрын

    Great video as always! Glad to see you back, wishing you nothing but the best and hoping for a quick recovery.

  • @AlexanderFromKC
    @AlexanderFromKC3 ай бұрын

    Thank you so very much!