Pablo and Nancy G. Say:
We are now in Colonia Allende, a neighborhood of San Miguel de Allende. It’s quite a walk into Zona Centro, but we are up to it so far—even though we’re in our late 70s.Our “kids,” who are in their mid to late 50s, are thinking of buying a “family compound” so they can begin to transition to SMA.
Any suggestions on what neighborhoods we should explore?
IL Latin America Correspondent Jason Holland Says:
Hi Pablo and Nancy,
Welcome to San Miguel de Allende! I used to live in Colonia Allende… a little side street off Calle de Las Flores. It can be a bit of a walk into centro but doable, as you say.
As far as a family compound where your kids could buy a main house, perhaps a second home, a casita, or a few apartments… These can be found all over town.
A local real estate agent should be able help you dial in on some specific listings. But a few neighborhoods come to mind close to centro:
- Guadiana is a prestigious, mostly residential neighborhood that’s close to Centro, but quieter. It’s also walking distance to restaurants and the organic market.
- San Antonio is an up and coming neighborhood south of Centro. Unlike much of San Miguel, it’s flat…. so getting around is easy. It’s a mixed neighborhood where you’ll find cafes, yoga studios and some art galleries.
- Guadalupe is north of Centro and close to the Fabrica La Aurora Art & Design Center. This is an artsy neighborhood, with lots of street art and galleries, organic stores, and also some good cafes and restaurants.
Independencia and San Rafael are more “up and coming” neighborhoods where you get more house (and often extra casitas and apartments already built in) for your money, but it’s a longer walk into the heart of town.
One option would be to buy a larger home in one of these areas and then convert part of it to apartments or add a casita on the property. That’s a popular option with many expats and locals.
Often, they rent them out for income. Something you could do until everybody in your family is moved in.
Best of luck with your search.
Editor’s Note: You can read more about real estate and property in San Miguel de Allende on the dedicated page of the IL website here.
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