The Villa
San Clemente
The Details
History
"Gringo"rized
The current Owner bought this home brand new in October 2011 as his first home in Ecuador. Planing to eventually buy a lot at the beach and build a new house there, this home served as the perfect starter home. Close to the beach, close to public transportation and a quite and safe neighborhood: what is not to like about that!
The building quality was decent for Ecuadorian standards and the builder took care of any issues during the warranty period of one year. But planing of living there for a year or two it made a lot of sense to upgrade and modify the house before moving in, to bring it up to a much higher standard than the original. 2 areas have been added: the "secret garden": a hidden addition to the bedroom, completely screened in with a nice outdoor shower and room for 2 comfortable chairs. At the front of the house another room (bodega) has been added that serves as a nice hobby room (many electric outlets) and for additional storage.
This means : bringing up to a standard that would be considered comfortable by US or Canadian standards:
While most of the year the weather, the temperature and humidity are just perfect, in the rainy season it can get a little warm and humid (high 80F and 80%). Therefore between January and April it can get a little less comfortable. This villa is outfitted with 4 separate Air conditioners, to take the edge off on some of these days. Some call it luxury, but why not?
Also many homes (incl. this initially do not have warm water. Another detail that was added before moving in, Yes some tiles needed to be replaced to add new waterlines, but now hot water can be enjoyed in all showers, in the kitchen and also at the outside sink and for the wash-machine.
A modern kitchen with gas range, Microwave, Refrigerator, and Exhaust has been added as well.
The floor-area outside the house (right and back) has been completely tiled and is easy to maintain.
For whom?
Checking out Ecuador with the goal to stay here as an expat is on many people's mind. Some buy a place right away, hoping it is the perfect one for years to come. Others are careful and renting for a year or so, knowing they will eventually buy or built their dream house. During this time a lot of traveling will be done to check out the different areas to find the perfect spot for the future. Why not buying a home, that features all the creature comfort needed and is so low maintenance that it can be left alone for a couple of weeks without problems. This house has no garden, so it is not for someone who wants to grow flowers or veggies, but that makes it as attractive as an apartment without the fees involved.
For some it even might be the house for the long run. It certainly has lots of room, allows for hobbies and does not require lot's of maintenance. While as of now, there has been no pets or smiking in this home, a cat or inside dog would be quite comfortable here as well