We did our research from a couple of thousand miles away and based on Puerto Vallarta rental websites, felt like we could get most of what we wanted for around $1500 a month. Here is our original list:
MOST IMPORTANT: Reliable/fast internet (150 Mbps or faster)
3 bedroom/2 bathroom or 2bd/2ba with enough space for a desk or table for work
Pet-friendly
Furnished
Non-smoking
Walkability – 5 to 15-minute walk to Old Town and the beach
Swimming pool (private or shared)
Garden or outdoor space
Air conditioners in bedrooms
Secure parking or safe parking somewhere close by for an SUV
Was it possible to get those things for that price range? Not quite. We could have gotten most of them for $2000 a month. Even at that, the places were super small and not in the best locations for a child and dog.
After touring a significant number of properties, it became clear we were going to have to compromise more than we wanted or pay more than we wanted. We decided to pay more in order to maximize our happiness levels since Chelsea, Hobbes, and I will be working from within the rental.
Ultimately, our costs are double our original goal once we factor in internet and electricity. While considerably more expensive than we hoped, we got almost everything on our list plus a few bonuses: direct bay & mountain views, beach access, and condo amenities (saltwater pool, doorman, gym, etc.). We did have to give up garden space for Roux, so she requires multiple relief walks daily.
Verdict? This is difficult. We are paying a lot more than we estimated, but we could not rent a comparable place in Florida or California for the same amount.