What if your next chapter could be lived on your terms - warmer weather, smarter investments, and a lifestyle built around freedom, not deadlines?
Welcome to Live by Design - Mexico Edition, the podcast that helps you create a life of intention, adventure, and opportunity in Mexico. Hosted by Taniel Chemsian, real estate expert and long-time Puerto Vallarta resident, each episode brings you real stories, expert insights, and practical strategies to help you design - not just dream - your ideal life south of the border.
From navigating residency, real estate, and healthcare to understanding culture, community, and cost of living, you’ll get the truth about what it really takes to move, invest, and thrive in Mexico.
Whether you’re planning for early retirement, exploring property investment, or simply craving a lifestyle with more freedom and fulfillment, this show will inspire you to stop waiting for “someday” and start living by design - right now, under the Mexican sun.
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence – download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen! Click here - https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-gui...
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Buying Property in Mexico: What You Need to Know About Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancun
Episode 157
Friday, October 30, 2026 • Duration 32:21
Thinking about buying property or building a new life in Mexico? Before making the move, it's important to understand the local real estate market, the practical challenges of owning property, and what everyday life in the Riviera Maya really involves.
In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Susana C. Macdonald, a seasoned real estate professional in the Riviera Maya, to discuss the opportunities and realities of living and investing in this popular region of Mexico.
From the changing real estate markets in Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancun to property taxes, infrastructure, and common mistakes buyers should avoid, Susana shares practical insights to help prospective buyers make more informed decisions. The conversation also explores the importance of due diligence when purchasing real estate in Mexico and the considerations involved in turning the dream of living abroad into reality.
In this episode, you'll discover:
What's happening in the real estate markets of Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancun
Important considerations when buying property in Mexico
Why infrastructure matters when evaluating a property or location
What buyers should understand about property taxes in Mexico
Common mistakes people make when purchasing real estate in Mexico
Why due diligence is essential before committing to a property
What to consider when exploring real estate investments in the Riviera Maya
How rental restrictions can influence property ownership and investment decisions
What aspiring expats should know before relocating to Mexico
How to approach the transition from dreaming about life in Mexico to making it a reality
Key Moments:
00:00 Tourism challenges in Riviera Maya
03:46 Sargasso Sea and seaweed issues
07:13 Summer sargassum and beach effects
11:54 Negotiating deal lengths and terms
13:50 Real Estate in Cancun's Hotel Zone
18:49 Vacation property investment options
23:06 Importance of a real estate attorney
25:56 Discussing real estate presales
27:21 Seller financing trends
30:26 Puerto Morelos market overview
34:15 Playa del Carmen real estate trends
Whether you're considering a beachfront condo, exploring investment opportunities, or planning to relocate, this conversation offers a practical perspective on buying property in Mexico and living in the Riviera Maya.
Join Taniel and Susana as they explore the real estate market, the challenges buyers should understand, and the steps that can help you make informed decisions when creating your new life in Mexico.
Buying Property in Mexico: Riviera Maya Real Estate Trends and Opportunities in 2026
Episode 156
Friday, October 23, 2026 • Duration 35:54
Is 2026 creating new opportunities for people looking to buy property in Mexico? In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition with Taniel Chemsian, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Riviera Maya real estate professional Susana C. Macdonald to examine the changing real estate market across Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Morelos.
Susana shares insights into the shift toward a buyer's market, changing property prices, and how global economic and political uncertainty is influencing buyer confidence. The conversation also explores the impact of sargasso seaweed on coastal destinations and how environmental concerns can affect perceptions of the region's real estate market.
For prospective buyers and investors, understanding the local market is essential. Susana discusses the opportunities emerging from price adjustments, the importance of conducting thorough due diligence, and why checking developer credentials matters when purchasing property in Mexico.
In this episode, you'll discover:
What's changing in the Riviera Maya real estate market in 2026
Why Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Morelos are experiencing a shift toward a buyer's market
How global economic and political uncertainty is affecting real estate decisions
What property price drops could mean for prospective buyers
How sargasso seaweed is influencing perceptions of coastal property markets
Where buyers may find potential opportunities across the Riviera Maya
Why due diligence is essential when buying real estate in Mexico
What to investigate when evaluating developers and new property projects
How to approach real estate investment during periods of market uncertainty
What buyers should consider before purchasing property in Mexico's popular coastal destinations
Key Moments:
00:00 Tourism challenges in Riviera Maya
03:46 Sargasso Sea and seaweed issues
07:13 Summer sargassum and beach effects
Retiring in Mexico? Why This Canadian Entrepreneur Chose Los Cabos | Taniel Chemsian
Episode 155
Friday, October 16, 2026 • Duration 35:24
What makes someone leave a successful business career in Canada to start a new chapter in Mexico? For Joe Taylor, a Canadian entrepreneur from Toronto, the decision meant leaving behind three thriving retail businesses and relocating with his family to Los Cabos in search of a different lifestyle.
In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition with Taniel Chemsian, host Taniel Chemsian speaks with Joe about his journey from Toronto to Mexico. Joe shares how Canada's harsh winters, the appeal of a warmer climate, and the opportunity to embrace a more relaxed way of life influenced his decision to make the move.
The conversation explores the realities of moving to Mexico with a family, Joe's experiences with safety and everyday life on the Mexican coast, and the opportunities and challenges of real estate investment in Los Cabos. He also reflects on the personal changes that came with leaving his established life behind and building a new future in Mexico.
In this episode, you'll discover:
Why Joe Taylor left Toronto and chose Los Cabos, Mexico
What it was like leaving behind three successful retail businesses
How Canada's winters influenced his decision to relocate
The experience of moving to Mexico with a family
Joe's perspective on safety and the lifestyle in Los Cabos
What to consider when exploring real estate investment in Mexico
The differences between life in Toronto and life on the Mexican coast
The challenges and rewards of relocating to another country
How a major life change can reshape your ideas about happiness, success, and opportunity
Key Moments:
00:00 Dealing with Winter Blues in Canada
06:07 Trusting gut instincts against advice
08:07 Adjusting to life in a new country
13:02 Current real estate market trends
14:26 Real estate financing in Mexico
Living in Mexico: Why Todos Santos Is Attracting Expats and Homebuyers
Episode 154
Friday, October 9, 2026 • Duration 39:42
What makes Todos Santos, Mexico, so appealing to people looking for a different way of life? From its natural beauty and historic charm to its growing international community and evolving real estate market, this coastal town in Baja California Sur is attracting people who want more than just a vacation destination.
In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition, Taniel Chemsian sits down with Tobias Sumanovac, a real estate expert whose life has been shaped by both Europe and Baja California Sur. Having grown up between Austria and Mexico, Tobias brings a unique perspective to what makes Todos Santos special and why he ultimately found his way back to the area.
Tobias shares insights into the Todos Santos real estate market, including what buyers should know about the area, the character of different neighborhoods, and the types of people choosing to make Todos Santos home. The conversation also explores the lifestyle changes that come with moving to a smaller coastal community and embracing a slower, more intentional way of living.
In this episode, you'll discover:
What makes Todos Santos different from other destinations in Mexico
Why expats and international homebuyers are increasingly drawn to Todos Santos
Tobias Sumanovac's unique connection to Austria and Baja California Sur
What buyers should know about the Todos Santos real estate market
The character and vibe of different Todos Santos neighborhoods
Why young families, retirees, and adventurers are choosing to live in the area
The natural beauty and oasis-like character of Todos Santos
How the town's historic charm contributes to its appeal
What it's like to transition to life in a smaller coastal community
How real estate and lifestyle choices can shape the way you live in Mexico
Key Moments:
00:00 Growing up between Austria and Mexico
04:18 Moving to Mexico from Austria
07:00 Clarifying Todos Santos Hotel Confusion
Moving to Mexico After 50: Amy Sedgwick’s Journey to a New Life
Episode 153
Friday, October 2, 2026 • Duration 25:42
What happens when the life you've built no longer feels like the life you want? For Amy Sedgwick, years of stress in the U.S. real estate industry, the financial challenges of the 2008 real estate crash, and starting over at 50 became the beginning of a completely different chapter.
In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition with Taniel Chemsian, Amy shares her journey from a high-stress real estate career in the United States to building a new life in Mérida, Mexico. She opens up about the setbacks she faced, the uncertainty of starting over, and the planning and resilience that helped her move forward.
Amy and Taniel discuss what it means to reinvent your life after 50, embrace uncertainty, and create a sense of community in a new country. They explore the realities of moving to Mexico, the importance of resilience during major life changes, and how stepping outside your comfort zone can open the door to new possibilities.
In this episode, you'll discover:
Amy Sedgwick's journey from U.S. real estate to life in Mexico
How the 2008 real estate crash affected her life and career
What it was like starting over at 50
The financial and personal challenges Amy faced along the way
Why she ultimately chose Mexico for her next chapter
How she adapted to a new environment and built community
The realities of starting a new life abroad
How planning and resilience helped Amy navigate uncertainty
Why it's never too late to make a major change in your life
What aspiring expats can learn from Amy's experience moving to Mexico
Key Moments:
00:00 Escrow closing and emotional moment
04:39 Community and lifestyle differences
07:11 Handling financial struggles
11:30 Construction challenges and house sale
15:39 Selling floating homes during market crash
Retiring in Mexico: How Amy Sedgwick Built a New Life in Mérida
Episode 152
Friday, September 25, 2026 • Duration 29:02
What does it really take to build a fulfilling retirement in Mexico? For Amy Sedgwick, the journey started with a five-year plan, a love for Mexican culture and language, and a desire to create a new chapter filled with adventure and purpose.
In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition with Taniel Chemsian, Taniel Chemsian sits down with Amy Sedgwick to hear how she went from Portland, Oregon, to building a new life in Mérida, Mexico. With years of experience as a real estate broker in the Northwest, Amy brought valuable knowledge to her own journey of buying and renovating properties in Mérida's Centro.
Amy shares the realities of moving abroad, including the challenges she encountered with property titles and the lessons she learned while navigating real estate in Mexico. She also talks about what drew her to Mérida and how the city's culture, arts scene, expat community, and healthcare helped shape her experience.
In this episode, you'll discover:
How Amy created a five-year plan for her retirement in Mexico
Why she chose Mérida as the place to build her new life
Amy's journey from Portland, Oregon, to Mérida, Mexico
What her background in real estate taught her about buying property in Mexico
Her experience buying and renovating multiple properties in Mérida's Centro
Some of the challenges involved with property titles in Mexico
What it's like navigating the realities of home buying in Mexico
How Amy built community and found a new sense of purpose after moving abroad
Why Mérida's culture and arts scene appealed to her
Her experience with the expat lifestyle in Mérida
The role of healthcare in creating a fulfilling retirement in Mexico
What she learned from the highs and lows of international relocation
Key Moments:
00:00 Introduction to the Mexico Podcast
03:56 Practicing gratitude and mindfulness
09:02 House hunting challenges abroad
Redefining Retirement in Mexico: Don Karp on Creativity, Community, and Living Well
Episode 151
Friday, September 18, 2026 • Duration 20:54
What if retirement wasn't about slowing down, but about creating an entirely new chapter of life?
In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Don Karp, who moved to Tepoztlán, Mexico at age 60 and discovered new opportunities for creativity, community, and adventure.
Don shares how moving to Mexico influenced his life and helped him reinvent himself as a writer and musician. He also discusses the realities of living in Mexico, including infrastructure, cost of living, adapting to a different environment, and finding community as an expat.
The conversation goes beyond the practical considerations of retiring abroad. Don explains how staying mentally and physically active has remained an important part of his retirement, and how music, writing, entrepreneurship, and community have helped him continue creating and contributing.
Don also shares his experience building a small business to help fellow expats transition to life in Mexico and reflects on why maintaining a positive outlook may be one of the most important parts of aging well.
In this episode, you will discover:
Why Don chose Tepoztlán, Mexico for his retirement
What life in Mexico has meant for his creativity and personal growth
The realities of cost of living and infrastructure in Mexico
How Don found community through music and local connections
Why staying mentally and physically active matters after 60
How a positive outlook can influence the retirement experience
What it's like to reinvent yourself after moving abroad
How Don turned his experience into a business helping fellow expats
Key Moments:
06:08 Deciding on moving to Tepoztlán
08:47 Helping Expats Settle in Mexico
10:16 Consultation for Moving to Mexico
14:30 Using public transportation in Vallarta
Retiring in Mexico: Finding Community, Purpose, and a New Life in Tepoztlán
Episode 150
Friday, September 11, 2026 • Duration 21:10
What does it take to create a meaningful retirement in Mexico? For Don Karp, the answer goes far beyond the cost of living or finding a beautiful place to live. After leaving Syracuse, New York, Don found a sense of belonging in Tepoztlán, a unique town in central Mexico known for its mountains, traditions, community, and distinctive culture.
In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition, with Taniel Chemsian, Taniel sits down with Don to explore his journey from being a chemist in the United States to building a new life in Mexico. Don shares what initially drew him to Tepoztlán and why the community ultimately became such an important part of his life.
The conversation also looks at what expat life in Mexico is really like, from adapting to a different culture and understanding healthcare differences to becoming part of local traditions and celebrations. Don explains how living in a community where family, relationships, and shared experiences matter more than materialism changed his perspective on what makes a fulfilling life.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
Don Karp’s journey from Syracuse, New York, to Tepoztlán, Mexico
Why Tepoztlán became a place he could truly call home
What makes Tepoztlán different from many other destinations in Mexico
How community and meaningful relationships can shape retirement abroad
The realities of expat life and integrating into Mexican culture
Differences in healthcare between the United States and Mexico
How family, tradition, and community celebrations influence everyday life
Why moving abroad can involve changing your perspective on materialism and success
What retirees and future expats should consider when choosing a community in Mexico
How finding purpose and connection can make retirement more fulfilling
Key Moments:
03:37 Tepoztlán's unique mountain landscape
06:44 Healthy lifestyle and alternative care
10:54 Digital nomads in Mexico
Retiring in Mexico: Real Estate, Lifestyle, and Life in Lake Chapala
Episode 149
Friday, September 4, 2026 • Duration 28:53
What does it really take to retire successfully in Mexico? It's not just about finding the right home. It's also about understanding the buying process, navigating the legal and financial details, adapting to a new culture, and developing the mindset needed to build a fulfilling life abroad.
In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Kristina Morgan, a certified and accredited real estate professional in Lake Chapala, to explore what retirees and expats should know before buying property and making the move to Mexico's interior.
Kristina shares practical guidance on working with certified real estate agents, navigating changing regulations, and understanding important considerations for foreign buyers, including residency, capital gains, and title options. But the conversation goes beyond the technical side of buying property in Mexico.
Together, Taniel and Kristina also explore the lifestyle and mindset changes that can make the transition to Lake Chapala more rewarding. They discuss the types of personalities who tend to thrive in the community and why gratitude, open-mindedness, cultural adaptation, and a willingness to embrace local life can make such a difference.
In this episode, you'll discover:
What retirees should know before moving to Lake Chapala, Mexico
Why working with certified and accredited real estate professionals matters
Important legal and financial considerations for foreign buyers
What to understand about residency and capital gains
Different title options available to foreigners buying property in Mexico
How changing regulations can affect the real estate process
What types of personalities tend to thrive in Lake Chapala
Why cultural adaptation is an important part of expat life
How gratitude and open-mindedness can make the transition easier
What it takes to build a fulfilling retirement and community life in Mexico
Key Moments:
05:13 Differences in real estate fees
Buying Property in Mexico: Lake Chapala Real Estate Trends and Opportunities in 2026
Episode 148
Friday, August 28, 2026 • Duration 28:39
Is 2026 a good time to buy property in Mexico? In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Kristina Morgan to take a close look at the changing Lake Chapala real estate market and what today's shifts could mean for buyers, sellers, and people planning a move to Mexico.
As the market evolves, buyers are finding more opportunities to negotiate, while motivated sellers, price reductions, new construction, and changing inventory are reshaping the housing landscape around Lake Chapala. Kristina and Taniel explore what's driving these changes and why certain neighborhoods may offer particularly interesting opportunities for international buyers.
The conversation also looks beyond prices. They discuss how international events are influencing Americans and younger families to consider relocating to Mexico, how social media and video marketing are changing the way properties are discovered, and how the needs of foreign and Mexican buyers are evolving.
From modern new builds to traditional colonial homes and condos, this episode provides a practical look at Lake Chapala real estate in 2026 and what buyers should consider before making a move.
In this episode, you'll discover:
What is changing in the Lake Chapala real estate market
Why buyers may have more negotiating power in 2026
How price reductions and motivated sellers are creating opportunities
What changing inventory means for buyers
Emerging trends in new construction and development
How international buyers are influencing the market
Why younger families are increasingly considering Lake Chapala
The differences between modern, colonial, and condo properties
How social media and video marketing are changing real estate
What prospective buyers should consider when evaluating opportunities in Mexico
Key Moments:
04:10 AI in real estate marketing
07:06 Concerns about US instability
11:54 Negotiating deal lengths and terms
13:50 Real Estate in Cancun's Hotel Zone
18:49 Vacation property investment options
23:06 Importance of a real estate attorney
25:56 Discussing real estate presales
27:21 Seller financing trends
30:26 Puerto Morelos market overview
Whether you're considering moving to Mexico, purchasing a vacation home, or exploring a real estate investment, this conversation offers a closer look at the opportunities and challenges shaping the Riviera Maya real estate market in 2026.
Listen to Taniel and Susana for practical perspectives on navigating Mexico real estate, evaluating potential deals, and making more informed property-buying decisions.
Whether you're considering retiring in Mexico, moving from Canada to Mexico, or exploring life in Los Cabos, Joe's story offers a personal perspective on the decisions involved in creating a new life abroad.
Join Taniel and Joe for a conversation about family, real estate, lifestyle, and what it means to design a life that reflects your priorities.
For anyone considering living in Mexico, moving to Todos Santos, or buying property in Mexico, this conversation provides firsthand insight into one of Baja California Sur's most distinctive communities. Tobias offers a local perspective on the real estate opportunities, neighborhoods, and lifestyle that are helping Todos Santos attract a growing international audience.
If you're looking beyond the traditional retirement destinations in Mexico and wondering what life in Todos Santos could look like, this episode is a great place to start.
Amy's story is a reminder that creating a new life doesn't always happen according to plan. Sometimes, setbacks can become the catalyst for change. Her experience offers an honest and personal perspective for anyone thinking about moving to Mexico after 50, reinventing themselves, or creating a different kind of life abroad.
If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to start over, this conversation with Amy Sedgwick offers a powerful perspective on resilience, community, and the possibilities of living by design.
Amy's story offers a firsthand look at what it can mean to retire in Mexico and intentionally design a new life abroad. From planning and property ownership to community, culture, and everyday life, her experience provides valuable perspective for anyone considering moving to Mexico or retiring in Mérida.
If you're thinking about building your own future in Mexico, this conversation offers practical lessons and an honest look at the opportunities and challenges that can come with starting a new chapter in another country.
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.
https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
Whether you're considering retiring in Mexico, exploring life abroad, or simply looking for inspiration for a more active and creative retirement, Don's story offers an honest look at designing a life around curiosity, community, and purpose.
Retirement doesn't have to mean stepping away from life. It can mean creating more space for the things you've always wanted to explore.
Tune in to Retirement in Mexico - Live by Design and discover Don Karp's journey from Boston to Tepoztlán.
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.
https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
Don's experience offers a thoughtful look at what retiring in Mexico can mean beyond simply relocating to another country. For anyone considering moving to Mexico, living in Mexico, or retiring in Tepoztlán, this conversation provides a personal perspective on community, culture, connection, and designing a life that feels meaningful.
Listen to the full episode to hear Don's story and discover another side of expat life in Mexico.
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.
https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
Whether you're considering retiring in Mexico, looking to buy property in Mexico, or exploring Lake Chapala real estate, this episode offers practical guidance and a thoughtful perspective on what it takes to make the transition successfully and create a life that truly fits you.
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.
https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
23:12 Surprising property deals in good neighborhoods
26:47 Price adjustments and market pitfalls
Whether you're looking to buy property in Mexico, considering Lake Chapala real estate, or planning your next chapter south of the border, this episode offers timely market insights and practical strategies to help you understand the opportunities and make more informed decisions.
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.
https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
