Ever wondered what it really takes to move your life to Mexico? In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian talks with Chuck Bolotin, founder of Best Mexico Movers, to break down the practical steps, real costs, and honest stories behind a successful relocation.

Chuck shares his journey from Arizona to Lake Chapala and the lessons learned from helping hundreds of Americans and Canadians move their belongings, pets, and dreams across the border. You’ll hear what to expect with customs, shipping, budgeting, and safety - plus the common mistakes people make and how to avoid them.

Whether you're curious about life by the lake, exploring affordable coastal towns, or simply trying to understand the logistics of moving abroad, this episode offers clear guidance and firsthand insight to help you design a smooth, confident move to Mexico.

Key Moments:

03:25 "Dream Beach House in Mexico"

07:02 "Why Not? A Mexico Journey"

12:53 "Is Driving in Mexico Safe?"

15:46 "Personal Preferences and Ideal Climate"

18:30 "Frustrations with Moving Estimates"

22:38 "Legal Journey to Help Families"

25:17 Cross-Border Moving Challenges

27:01 Visa Rules for Mexico Movers

32:31 "Relocating and Starting Anew"

36:08 "Foreign Income Exclusion & Mexico Perception"

How to connect Chuck: 

WEBSITE: https://bestmexicomovers.com/

EMAIL: [email protected]

CELL PHONE: +1 520 940 0481

Download "Our Year on the Road and Living in Mexico": https://bestplacesintheworldtoretire.com/site/assets/files/60749/our_year_on_the_road_and_living_in_mexico_270420-b.pdf

Download "What You Need to Know About Moving Your Household Goods to Mexico": https://bestmexicomovers.com/downloads/moving-guide.pdf

Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence – download your FREE Taniel Chemsian Properties Buyer’s Guide now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen! Click here - 

https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-guide-podbean/

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.tanielchemsian.com

Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

Thinking about life beyond the resort towns? In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian talks with Alexandra Demou, a New Yorker who turned her love for Mexico into a fulfilling 16-year journey in Mexico City.

Alexandra shares her personal story of navigating language barriers, embracing cultural differences, and launching Welcome Home Mexico, a relocation service that helps foreigners find community and belonging in one of the world’s most vibrant capitals. Together, she and Taniel explore what draws expats to Mexico City—the creative energy, family values, business opportunities, and rich quality of life.

Whether you’re considering a move, exploring investment opportunities, or simply curious about Mexico City’s modern expat culture, this episode is packed with real stories, practical advice, and inspiration to help you design a life that feels connected, intentional, and uniquely yours - right in the heart of Mexico.

Key Moments: 

03:41 "Mexico City's Cultural Richness"

07:59 Teaching and Starting Life in Tijuana

10:01 Life Near Tijuana's Coastline

15:45 "Finding Home and Happiness"

19:05 Comprehensive Relocation Assistance Services

20:52 "Building Community for Foreign Families"

24:37 Working Abroad in Mexico.

27:47 Mexico: Misconceptions on Safety

31:25 Expats Thriving in Mexico

35:10 "Overcoming Uncertainty with Guidance"

About the guest : 

Alexandra Demou is the Founder-CEO of Welcome Home Mexico, a relocation and real estate company located in Polanco, Mexico City. 

Connect Alexandra: 

WEBSITE:​ http://www.welcomehomemexico.com/

EMAIL:​ [email protected]

Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence – download your FREE Taniel Chemsian Properties Buyer’s Guide now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen! Click here - 

https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-guide-podbean/

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.tanielchemsian.com

Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

Curious about what life and real estate really look like in Mexico’s Rocky Point? 

In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Joseph Toland, a seasoned real estate expert with over two decades of experience in Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point), Sonora.

Joseph shares how Americans and Canadians are successfully investing, retiring, and building new lives in this coastal gem - just a few hours from the U.S. border. From navigating property purchases with licensed AMPI agents and setting up bank trusts to understanding market trends, rental income opportunities, and day-to-day living, this conversation is packed with firsthand insights and practical guidance.

If you’ve ever dreamed about owning property or starting a new life by the sea, this episode will show you why Puerto Peñasco continues to attract expats seeking affordable luxury, community, and a lifestyle that feels truly free.

Connect Joseph : 

Website: https://www.rockypointbestrealestate.com/

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockypointbest

Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence – download your FREE Taniel Chemsian Properties Buyer’s Guide now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen! Click here - 

https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-guide-podbean/

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.tanielchemsian.com

Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

Big changes are happening! After years of inspiring Americans and Canadians to retire, buy homes, and invest in Mexico, we’re rebranding the “Retirement in Mexico” podcast to “Live by Design: Mexico Edition”.

Welcome to Live by Design -  Mexico Edition with your host Taniel Chemsian, real estate expert and long-time Puerto Vallarta resident. In this special episode, Taniel unveils the exciting next chapter of the show - formerly known as Retirement in Mexico and shares why it’s time to move beyond the idea of “retirement” toward something much bigger: reinvention, freedom, and intentional living in Mexico.

If you’ve ever dreamed about escaping long workdays, high costs, or endless routine for a life that feels truly yours, this is where your new story begins. Taniel explains how Live by Design - Mexico Edition will help you create a smarter, more fulfilling future - through real stories, practical strategies, and expert advice on investing, relocating, and thriving in Mexico.

From property markets and residency to community and culture, this reimagined podcast is about designing your days with purpose and courage - not waiting for someday, but living by design right now.

So, whether you’re planning for early retirement, exploring real estate opportunities, or simply ready to reclaim your freedom, tune in and discover how to make your next chapter under the Mexican sun your best one yet.

Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence – download your FREE Taniel Chemsian Properties Buyer’s Guide now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen! Click here - 

https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-guide-podbean/

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.tanielchemsian.com

Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

Thinking about building your dream home in Mexico? In this episode, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Tom and Tiffany Pence, a Florida couple who turned their vision into reality in the vibrant city of Querétaro.

They share what it’s really like to sell everything, move abroad, and start fresh—covering everything from construction challenges and budgeting, to navigating permits, local culture, and community life. You’ll also hear how they built lasting friendships, adapted to a slower pace, and even launched a wine tour business in central Mexico.

If you’ve ever dreamed about creating a new life or home south of the border, this episode offers practical insights, honest lessons, and inspiring motivation straight from those who’ve done it successfully.

Key Moments: 

04:19 "Moving After 51 Years"

08:50 Mexico Real Estate Tax Insight

12:15 Mountain Gated Community Life

15:43 "Banking Systems Differ Globally"

17:59 Living Among Locals in Mexico

21:31 Pivoting Business During Recession

24:36 "Financial Escape to Mexico"

27:55 Moving to Mexico: Key Considerations

30:25 Hospital Access Concerns in Mexico

Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence – download your FREE Taniel Chemsian Properties Buyer’s Guide now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen! Click here - 

https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-guide-youtube/

https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-guide-podbean/

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.tanielchemsian.com

Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

What would it take to leave everything behind and start over in another country? In this episode of Life by Design - Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian speaks with Mario and Holly Ortiz, a couple who traded the rush of San Francisco for the peace and possibility of San Miguel de Allende.

They share their bold journey - selling everything, crossing the border with their daughter and dog, and transforming a raw cornfield into Rancho Sol Dorado, a thriving equestrian ranch and residential community. Along the way, you’ll hear about the challenges they faced with banking, healthcare, and language, and how respect, community, and courage helped them thrive.

Whether you’re dreaming of a move abroad, seeking a lifestyle change, or curious about real estate in Mexico, this story offers inspiration, honesty, and practical lessons on creating a life by design instead of by default.

Key Moment : 

06:51 "Overcoming Fear of Mexico"

07:42 "Family, Media, and Mexico Reflections"

10:54 "Expat Life: Family & Community"

15:17 "Healthcare, Banking, and Connectivity"

17:14 "Immerse Yourself: Learn Spanish"

22:53 "BlackBerry Signal in Nature"

26:10 Respect Yields Real Estate Rewards

28:02 From Ranch to Real Estate

31:36 Equestrian Ranch in San Miguel

34:13 Respect Drives Symbiotic Relationships

39:08 Affordable Assisted Living Developments

42:11 Living Options in Fluvial Vallarta

Connect Mario and Holly Ortiz : 

Website: https://ranchosoldorado.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/delsoldorado/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ranchodelsoldoradosma/

Email: info@ranchosoldorado

Telephone: +52 415 1013858

Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence – download your FREE Taniel Chemsian Properties Buyer’s Guide now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen! Click here - 

https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-guide-youtube/

https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-guide-podbean/

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.tanielchemsian.com

Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

Buying property in Mexico can be exciting - but it can also feel confusing if you don’t know who to trust. In part 2 of the 2-part episode of Life by Design  -  Mexico Edition, Taniel Chemsian talks with Riviera Maya real estate expert Andrew Schisler to reveal how to find reliable agents, avoid common pitfalls, and spot genuine investment opportunities.

Andrew shares his first-hand experience working with expats and investors, explaining the importance of hiring a qualified attorney, understanding escrow, and doing proper due diligence before signing anything.

Key Moments: 

01:22 Bilingual Real Estate Delivery Challenges

03:21 New Build Purchase Considerations

07:29 Real Estate Search Strategies

10:34 Part-Time Agents' Impact on Industry

15:50 Costco Shopping and Dining Costs

17:07 Affordable Dining Options in Puerto Aventuras

21:36 "Try Before You Commit"

About Andrew Schisler: Originally from Atlanta, Andrew Schisler built his life and career in Puerto Aventuras, where he helps expats and families create their dream lifestyle in the Riviera Maya.

Website: www.colibriproperty.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrew.schisler https://www.facebook.com/colibriproperty

Instagram: @thaschiz / @colibri_property

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (WhatsApp/iMessage): +52 984.134.0101

https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-guide-podbean/

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.tanielchemsian.com

Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

Thinking about a fresh start or investment along Mexico’s Caribbean coast? In this episode of Life by Design - Mexico Edition, Taniel Chemsian talks with Andrew Schisler, an Atlanta native who turned a teaching adventure into a full life in Puerto Aventuras. Andrew shares his honest story of raising a young family, building a real estate career, and adapting to Mexico’s slower rhythm and warm community.

You’ll get insider advice on choosing schools, navigating healthcare, and buying property in this marina-front, master-planned community. Andrew also reveals the common mistakes new expats make - and how to avoid them - so you can create a fulfilling, well-planned life in the Riviera Maya. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful retirement or a strategic family move, this episode offers real-world guidance and inspiration to help you take the next step confidently.

Key Moments: 

05:51 "Puerto Aventuras: Established Gated Community"

08:56 "Retiree Migration Post-Covid"

11:20 Puerto Aventuras: Growth and Development

15:33 Canadian Migration Southward Trends

17:47 Passion and Experience in Riviera Maya Real Estate

21:15 "Importance of Hiring Real Estate Agents"

Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence – download your FREE Taniel Chemsian Properties Buyer’s Guide now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen! Click here - 

https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-guide-podbean/

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.tanielchemsian.com

Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

Thinking about retiring in Mexico, but worried about what the reality will look like? In this episode of Life by Design  - Mexico Edition, Taniel Chemsian sits down with relocation consultant Kerry Loeb to share the real challenges and rewards expats face when making the move. From navigating Mexico’s slower-paced bureaucracy and avoiding common lease mistakes, to handling homesickness and adapting to a new culture, Kerry offers candid advice grounded in years of experience in San Miguel de Allende.

You’ll also learn why family-centered values shape Mexican life, how to build a supportive community abroad, and why liability insurance and trusted networks are key to a smooth transition. 

Whether you’re just exploring the idea of moving or already preparing to relocate, this episode will give you the confidence, strategies, and inspiration to make your next chapter in Mexico both fulfilling and stress-free.

Key Moments: 

04:02 Legal Precautions for Foreigners in Mexico

06:57 "Living Between San Miguel and Coast"

11:25 Family Over Money Prioritization

15:25 "Stress of Relocating to Mexico"

16:20 Emotional Hurdles After Moving Abroad

21:03 Mexico Relocation Consultations Process

About the guest : 

Kerry Loeb is a compassionate and proactive individual who has dedicated significant efforts to supporting migrants journeying through Central America. Recognizing the challenges these individuals face, Kerry spearheaded a project focused on providing essential food and clothing to thousands of people traveling through San Miguel on their way to the United States. 

In addition to his humanitarian efforts, Kerry is an avid golf enthusiast and volunteered as a marshal at a picturesque golf course in San Miguel for several years. His love for the region extends beyond sports; with an innate passion for the vibrant culture and community of San Miguel, Kerry eagerly assists others in visiting or relocating there, driven by a naturally enthusiastic and sharing nature.

 Kerry Loeb’s life is defined by his altruism, love for community, and zest for life, making a positive impact wherever he goes.

How to connect Kerry : 

Website: https://www.expatpathwaymexico.com/

Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence – download your FREE Taniel Chemsian Properties Buyer’s Guide now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen! Click here - 

https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-guide-podbean/

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.tanielchemsian.com

Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

Thinking about relocating or investing in Mexico but unsure who else is making the move? In this episode of Life by Design – Mexico Edition, Taniel Chemsian talks with relocation consultant Kerry Loeb from San Miguel to uncover the real trends shaping Mexico’s expat scene.

From single women and LGBTQ couples to young families and early retirees, Kerry shares why motivations are shifting - politics, cost of living, lifestyle design - and what new arrivals should know about visas, schools, and choosing the right region. Whether you’re curious about San Miguel or exploring Mexico as a long-term investment, this episode offers honest insights and actionable guidance for planning your move with confidence.

Key Moments: 

03:07 Migration Driven by Politics and Economy

08:18 Business Surge Post-Election

11:46 Navigating Mexican Residency Bureaucracy

13:23 "Life Exploration in San Miguel"

16:59 Relocation Support to San Miguel

20:25 "Spontaneous Connections Abroad"

23:43 Embrace Mistakes to Learn Language

About the guest : 

Kerry Loeb is a compassionate and proactive individual who has dedicated significant efforts to supporting migrants journeying through Central America. Recognizing the challenges these individuals face, Kerry spearheaded a project focused on providing essential food and clothing to thousands of people traveling through San Miguel on their way to the United States. 

In addition to his humanitarian efforts, Kerry is an avid golf enthusiast and volunteered as a marshal at a picturesque golf course in San Miguel for several years. His love for the region extends beyond sports; with an innate passion for the vibrant culture and community of San Miguel, Kerry eagerly assists others in visiting or relocating there, driven by a naturally enthusiastic and sharing nature.

 Kerry Loeb’s life is defined by his altruism, love for community, and zest for life, making a positive impact wherever he goes.

How to connect Kerry : 

Website: https://www.expatpathwaymexico.com/

Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence – download your FREE Taniel Chemsian Properties Buyer’s Guide now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!

Click here - 

https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-guide-podbean/

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.tanielchemsian.com

Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893