Favorite websites for Lake Chapala rentals?

[sherrylh]

Hello,
Do any of you have advice to pass on regarding how to find good rentals when you aren't in residence? I have found some realties which also handle rental properties in the area - would prefer to wander into a grocery store down there and ask around......but.........Also, anything to watch out for when setting up a half year or so rental in the area? Any advice would be much appreciated. Thank you in advance. Sherry

[RVGRINGO]

It would help if you were familiar with the area and neighborhoods in Chapala or Ajijic, for example. Otherwise, you can use Google to search for rentals in the area. You will find them from about $450-$1000 USD per month. Most will require first, last and security deposit. Long term rentals are much more negotiable.
If you aren't familiar with the area, it might be best to come on down and stay in a hotel or B&B while you inspect a few properties. If you are already in contact with an agent who expects you and knows your needs and limits, it shouldn't take long at this time of year.

[sherrylh]

Hello, RVGringo and all,
Thanks for your reply - do you have a hotel or B&B you'd recommend if we were to come stay and look around before renting for a period of time. Of course, we could come for the beginning of a 6 month stay and live out of the hotel or B&B while we were looking for a home to rent?? The problem would be if we couldn't find a home to rent........Any other way of getting familiar with neighborhoods than to actually be there - What do you think about the small towns on the other side of the lake? I've heard that not nearly as many Gringoes have made it around the other side - probably because it's sweet to be closer to Guadalajara? Thanks again. Sherry

[RVGRINGO]

For your first stay at Lake Chapala, I would recommend that you concentrate on the north shore, Chapala/Ajijic/Jocotopec.
There are lots of B&Bs and Hotels and I've listed a few below:
Chapala: Lake Chapala Inn and Quinta Quetzlcoatl (QQ) & more.
Ajijic: La Nueva Posada, Laguna B&B, Ajijic Suites, Ajijic Hotel, Real de Chapala, Casa Blanca & more.
Google them for details.
If you are arriving between now and late Fall, there will be a lot of rentals available in the absence of the seasonal 'snowbirds' who come for the winter. You should be able to find a place in a matter of days.